The Search for Birmingham’s Oldest African American Genealogy Group is Still Ongoing
In the heart of Alabama, the quest to find Birmingham’s oldest African American genealogy group is still ongoing. Spearheaded by Dora Marrisette, this pursuit traverses through the roots of African American history.
The Journey to Find Birmingham African American Genealogy Group Inc.
The Birmingham African American Genealogy Group Inc. (BAAGG) is a platform for individuals keen on exploring their ancestry. As the oldest of its kind in Alabama, it caters to those interested in African American genealogy in Birmingham and beyond.
Serving as the group’s president, Marrisette underscores the importance of understanding one’s heritage. She shares, “We are a group of people curious about our roots, where we came from, and our people.” Lending a hand to the public in their personal quests, she further notes, “We try to point them to the right direction like the library, the archives in Montgomery, and the different archives at the historically black colleges.”
Anchored in the city since 1999, this organization has borne witness to African Americans’ growing interest in tracing their lineage. The inaugural meeting was conducted at the downtown Birmingham Public Library, marking what would later be decades of service to its community. Reaching a significant milestone, the group recently celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Dora Marrisette: A Beacon of Hope
The passionate President herself has used the resources of the BAAGG to trace her family line back to 1870, identifying her ancestors’ connection to a former slave owner. With her research, she accomplished what was once deemed impossible.
Marrisette discovered her fascination with history at an early age while attending Mattie T. Blount High School in her hometown of Prichard, Alabama. Her curiosity was further ignited when her father suffered a stroke and lost his ability to communicate, putting an end to her inquiries about her family history.
After retiring from a 43-year career in Birmingham’s esteemed nonprofit scientific research organization, Southern Research, Marrisette has devoted her time to uncover the places where her ancestors resided. Her journey thus far has taken her from her grandmother’s neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, to various other locations that bear the footprints of her lineage.
Remembering the Ancestors
Marrisette’s commitment to preserving her ancestors’ legacy is beyond historical research. The group’s mantra of “speak their names”, passed from generation to generation, allows her to keep the memories of her kin alive. She preserves special dates such as birthdays and wedding anniversaries, echoing sentiments of joy and nostalgia.
A Rallying Call for Aspiring Genealogists
The Birmingham African American Genealogy Group stands as a beacon for those looking to unlock their family history. By offering classes on 3rd Saturdays of each month, it welcomes interested individuals to take part both in person at the Birmingham Public Library and virtually via ZOOM.
As it journey continues, the BAAGG stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of those tracing back their roots, bearing the seeds of history and heritage for the generations to come.
