On Saturday, May 23, Historic Edenton State Historic Site will host an ancestry research seminar that tackles the challenges of researching African American genealogy and offers tips for specialty research and finding Revolutionary War ancestors.
The seminar, titled “We Were There Too: Searching for Ancestors” brings together genealogy experts to share proven strategies, specialized tools, and practical tips for tracing family roots.This event is hosted in partnership with the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Historic Edenton is administered by N.C. Historic Sites, a division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
The day-long event will take place at the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, located at 117 E. King St. The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Reservations can be made by calling the Historic Edenton Visitor Center at (252) 632-5020 or online via the event page. Doors open at 9 a.m. and the first panel begins at 10 a.m.
The seminar features three expert speakers who will present separately and then offer a workshop session together at 2 p.m.:
Taryn Kennedy serves as the National Vice Chair of the America 250 Forgotten Patriots Committee and a Research Specialist with NSDAR Specialty Research. She is dedicated to documenting African American, American Indian, and Spanish or French patriots of the American Revolutionary War.
Shannon Combs Bennett is a professional genealogist specializing in genetic genealogy and related topics.
Dr. Mark Attucks, Sr. is a descendant of Crispus Attucks, who was the first of five people killed in the 1770 Boston Massacre. He holds advanced degrees in law, sociology, and business, along with credentials in security and financial management. An Air Force retiree and a native of Winston-Salem, N.C., he now lives in Maryland with his family.
About Historic Edenton
Historic Edenton State Historic Site offers a glimpse into life in one of North Carolina’s earliest colonial capitals. Located along the picturesque Edenton Bay, the site interprets the area’s rich maritime and political history through guided tours, special programs, and engaging exhibits. Visitors can explore several preserved and restored structures, including the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, the James Iredell House, and the Roanoke River Lighthouse, set amidst the charm of Edenton’s renowned historic district.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. At more than 100 sites across the state, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.