Tracing Black Ancestry | Online One-to-One Expert Advice

Friday 13 June

Curious about your Black ancestry but not sure where to begin? Whether you’re starting from scratch or you’ve hit a roadblock in your research, a one-to-one Zoom consultation offers you a personalised, expert-guided session to help you move forward.

These sessions are designed specifically for those tracing Black British, Caribbean, or North American roots and seeking direction, insight, or practical help.

If you’re just beginning your journey, you might simply want to understand where to look and how to get started. For those already deep into their research, this is a chance to troubleshoot challenges, ask targeted questions, or get support with interpreting the records you’ve already found. Whatever stage you’re at, this is an opportunity to talk directly to someone who understands the unique complexities of Black genealogy.

During your consultation, you’ll have the chance to discuss a range of topics—depending on what you need. That might include how to start tracing your family history, how to search effectively online, or how to find ancestors born as far back as the 1800s. We can also explore how to work through problems with online genealogy platforms, avoid common pitfalls, and review documents you’ve already obtained.

Appointments take place via Zoom, so you can connect from wherever you feel most comfortable—your home, office, laptop or mobile. The sessions are tailored to your questions and goals, and you’re welcome to share any documents or search notes you’ve gathered so far.

If it’s your first time booking a consultation, a 30-minute session (£50) is a great place to start—especially if you have a complex issue or several smaller questions. For those facing multiple challenges or wanting to review documents in more detail, a 60-minute session (£100) is ideal. This longer format allows for a deeper dive into your family history and provides time to discuss strategies for breaking through brick walls in your research.

These sessions are led by Paul Crooks, a trailblazer in the field of Black genealogy. Paul made history in the 1990s when he traced his family lineage six generations back to ancestors enslaved on a North American sugar plantation. At a time when many believed such research was impossible, Paul proved otherwise—laying the groundwork for an entire movement in Black British and Caribbean family history. Through his acclaimed books, public talks, and ongoing work, he’s helped thousands explore their roots and reclaim their stories.

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