The Beyoncé Connection: Tracing My Family Roots
I've got to share an incredible adventure with you. So, this week's newsletter almost didn't happen because, believe it or not, I am still recovering from food poisoning. Picture this: I was at the airport terminal about to board a flight back to DC, and all of a sudden, I started feeling very nauseous. My plane boards in 10 minutes, and I'm in the bathroom, fighting for my life.
I'll leave out the details, but let's say all the stalls were full, and my aunt was holding my hair back as I greeted the trash can. It was quite the scene from a movie, but I managed to rally and make it onto the flight. The good news is that I had my dramamine pills in my first aid kit, but I will now be adding emesis bags in the future.
Anyway, I had the most amazing trip to South Carolina. It was more than just a family visit - it was a chance to connect with my roots. You see, for many African Americans, tracing family history can be super tough due to the legacy of slavery. It often means that finding records and reconnecting with our heritage is a real challenge
The Challenge of Tracing African American Roots
According to the National Genealogical Society, finding African American genealogy records from before the Civil War is tough - like really tough. And to make matters harder, racism and segregation have made it even more difficult to access the records and resources needed to piece together our family histories.
But here's the good news: despite these challenges, there's a growing effort to uncover and celebrate our heritage. DNA testing and digital archives are really making a difference, not to mention the power of family reunions in keeping our legacy alive.
Discovering My Roots in South Carolina
Being in South Carolina was incredible. I learned about my great-great-great-grandmother, who escaped slavery and married at just 17. She and her husband thrived in Darlington, SC, raising 14 kids and even owning racehorses. It was mind-blowing to discover these details about my family's history.
The Beyoncé Connection: Tracing My Family Roots
Here's a fun twist: while driving to Darlington, we stopped at a rest area, and guess what I found? An awesome cowboy hat! It was a spontaneous buy inspired by Beyoncé's "Cowboy Carter" album and movement. Little did I know that my family actually owned racehorses in the 1800s, so the hat felt like a connection to that history. It was a really special moment for me.
A Brief History of Black Cowboys and Racehorse Ownership
You won't believe this - but African Americans had a strong connection to racehorse ownership and racing in the 1800s. Enslaved individuals often worked as jockeys, trainers, and stable hands. After emancipation, many continued in the industry, becoming prominent racehorse owners and trainers. It added such a fascinating layer to my family's story.
The Reunion Experience
Meeting my family on our ancestral land was so humbling. We got to unplug and connect with relatives of all ages - from the little ones to our elders, who are still dancing at over 100 years old. It was a beautiful reminder of our roots and heritage.
3 Memorable Moments at the Reunion
Let me tell you about the three best highlights:
Honoring Our Elders: We set up a special table for family members over 75. It was a beautiful way to show our love and appreciation for their wisdom and legacy.
Family Reunion Booklet: Everyone got a booklet with our family history and space for contact details. It's such a thoughtful touch that lets us stay connected beyond the reunion.
Celebrating the Youngest: We made sure to honor the littlest member of our family - my 2-year-old cousin. She got a teddy bear dressed in a mini family reunion T-shirt. It was just the sweetest moment that symbolized the continuity of our family's legacy.
My family's resilience and the stories I discovered on this trip inspire me every day. Here's to honoring our past and building our future.
Sending lots of love and gratitude your way, Tiffany!
