Friends of Friends: Quakers and African American Communities, with Ari Wilkins, professional genealogist

Saturday, August 26, 2023 @ 10:30AM via Zoom

Register: https://tinyurl.com/PPLGen230826

Co-hosted Historical Society of Plainfield / Drake House Museum

Well-known for their anti-slavery views, Quakers began to migrate to the slave-free territories in the 19th century. As they migrated out of the South, Quakers emancipated and traveled with their newly freed slaves. Once settled, the sect continued their abolitionist cause by supporting the Underground Railroad – transporting runaway slaves to free states. In turn, free blacks established their own settlements, while still maintaining ties with the Quaker community.

A graduate of Louisiana State University, Ari Wilkins has been actively researching family history since 1998, specializing in African American research.

Ms. Wilkins speaks nationally and locally. She has had the honor to speak at the National Genealogical Society, Federation of Genealogical Societies, Texas State Genealogical Society, Ohio Genealogical Society, Institute of Genealogical and Historical Research, Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, American Library Association, RootsTech, and a multitude of local societies.