From Grave to Records: Tracing Black Ancestry Through Death Records and Cemeteries

This course is designed to guide you through the process of using death records and cemetery searches to trace Black ancestry. Death records—such as death certificates, burial permits, and obituaries—often provide crucial information for genealogical research. For Black families, especially those with roots in slavery, such records can be vital in piecing together family history that is otherwise difficult to trace.

We will cover topics like how to interpret death records, where to find them, and how to use information from cemeteries and gravestones to further your search. You’ll also learn how to cross-reference death records with other genealogical documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, to build a fuller picture of your ancestors' lives.

By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively utilize death records and cemetery information to advance your family history research.

Course Highlights:

1. Understanding Death Certificates and Their Limitations
   Learn how to read and interpret key details on death certificates, including causes of death, familial information, and how inaccuracies might arise.

2. Cemetery Research: Locating and Interpreting Gravestones
   Discover techniques for locating burial sites and interpreting inscriptions on gravestones, including how to deal with missing or illegible markers.

3. Cross-Referencing Death Records with Other Sources
   Learn how to cross-reference death certificates with other documents—such as birth and marriage records—to ensure accuracy and build a clearer family narrative.

4. Overcoming Barriers to Accessing Historical Black Death Records
   Explore strategies for overcoming challenges in finding death records for Black ancestors, especially those affected by segregation or institutional biases.