In wake of the information age, the records of freed slaves collected by the Freedmen's Bureau are now accessible online.
Currently, the leading research center for these records is the University of South Florida's Africana Heritage Project. Beginning in early 2004, the Africana Heritage Project, the brainchild of Dr. Deborah Plants, is now nationally recognized for proficiency in recovering African American history and genealogy. The records recovered from the Freedmen's Bureau consist of many sources including, but not limited to, family Bible records, search holdings in the University of South Florida's library, wills, deeds and bills of sale.
The Africana Heritage Project and subsequent programs are a means to recover African American lineage lost during the Middle Passage and American slavery.
During these times, African Americans were not guaranteed security in the family unit and separation of members, often due to being sold away from the family, was a common experience amongst slaves.
"We in the present did not choose our past, but we can, and do, choose our present and our future. How will we handle this moment, today, when our paths cross and our eyes meet? This is what we are in control of. Let us affect our personal circle of influence by living the change that we would like to see," said Africanaheritage.com, where further information regarding these records is available.
Some Howard University staff and faculty see an opportunity for community enrichment through sources like the Africana Heritage Project.
"There is a great interest that comes from this. It will create a connection to our African roots. We don't have confidence because we don't relate to Africa. Knowing the story, it's all about defining yourself then. We need a 'land-base connection,'" said African American studies professor Robert Cummings.
"There is a legacy in our history greater than our slavery. If there is data that allows you to connect us to our land, it gives you empowerment. You're not restricted to slavery. You can see that we have made a positive contribution to society." Freshman African American studies major Tehila Wise was concerned about the accuracy of the records available.
"I think that it's fine if the information is accurate. It's like the old saying goes: in order to know where you're going, you have to know where you're coming from. It will give people a powerful connection to their roots and history. Black people will know who they are, and when you know who you are, you'll be able to demand what you want and need."
The Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands, more commonly known as the Freedmen's Bureau, was established in 1865 to manage all relief and education efforts pertaining to refugees and freedmen, according to freedmensbureau.com.
Students can find out more about the records of free slaves or other information about the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands at freedmensbureau.com.
