Mississippi Universities Unite for the Lantern Project

News Summary

Mississippi universities are collaborating on the Lantern Project, aimed at uncovering the stories of enslaved ancestors. Led by Mizenko in partnership with the University of Mississippi Slavery Research group, the project seeks to digitize historical documents and facilitate community engagement through art and genealogy. A public reception for the project will take place at the Powerhouse Community Arts Center on April 6th.

Mississippi Universities Come Together for the Inspiring Lantern Project

In an exciting collaboration, universities in Mississippi are uniting to breathe life into the stories of those whose voices have too often been silenced: the enslaved ancestors of the region. Leading this enlightening effort is a passionate individual named Mizenko, who is teaming up with the University of Mississippi Slavery Research group and local historian Rhondalyn Peairs. Together, they are paving the way for a groundbreaking initiative known as the Lantern Project.

Meet the Experts Behind the Project

The project gains further credibility with the involvement of Kenyatta D. Berry, a highly respected genealogist and an Emmy-nominated professional known for her contributions to the esteemed “1619 Project.” Berry’s expertise in African American genealogy is unmatched, and she has penned a comprehensive guide titled “The Family Tree Toolkit: A Comprehensive Guide to Uncovering Your Ancestry and Researching Genealogy.” Furthermore, she has served as the Past President of the Association of Professional Genealogists, showcasing her commitment to this vital field.

Funding and Community Engagement

Mizenko has rallied an impressive $30,000 to fund a unique dance production that is set to delve into these genealogical themes. However, the journey doesn’t end there; additional funds are still greatly needed to carry out thorough genealogical research and document the essential narratives surrounding Rowan Oak. This is an invitation for the community to come forward and be part of this important mission to preserve rich histories.

Mark Your Calendars for a Special Event!

Curious about how art, history, and genealogy intertwine? You won’t want to miss the public reception for “Moving Spirits II,” scheduled for Sunday, April 6th, at 4 p.m. at the Powerhouse Community Arts Center. Attendees will hear from Mizenko, talented dancers, and historians, creating a delightful intersection of culture and education.

Unveiling Hidden Histories

The Lantern Project is on a mission to shine a light on the legal records of enslaved persons and make them accessible to the public, tackling the hurdles many African Americans encounter in genealogical research. To date, teams have been diligently scanning and cataloging probate records and legal documents from several counties, including Adams County, Washington County, and Lowndes County.

A Collective Effort

This inspiring project receives the backing of various institutions, including Mississippi State University, University of Mississippi, Delta State, the Historic Natchez Foundation, Columbus-Lowndes Public Library, and even the Montgomery County Archives in Alabama. Spearheaded by Jennifer McGillan, the Coordinator of Manuscripts at Mississippi State University Library, this initiative has seen significant progress even after the initial setbacks caused by the pandemic.

Preserving Our Past for the Future

Thousands of crucial documents are being digitized and prepared for transcription, which will eventually be housed within Mississippi State University’s digital collections. Not only will this information benefit local researchers, but it will also be shared with the esteemed Digital Library of American Slavery at the University of North Carolina Greensboro and enslaved.org. This collaboration ensures a wider-reaching impact, allowing families to explore their heritage more effortlessly.

Challenges and Triumphs

Though progress faced interruptions due to COVID-19, efforts have ramped up as restrictions eased. Notably, many of the most valuable documents have been located in counties that managed to escape the destruction of their courthouses during the Civil War, especially areas like Natchez and Noxubee County. The project aims to gather historical records spanning from the time of colonization to 1865, centering on the experiences of enslaved persons and their enslavers.

A Resource for Generations to Come

Name recognition in the genealogy community, like that of Sharon Morgan, an esteemed African American genealogist, points to the Lantern Project’s significance. Many, including Morgan, have discovered invaluable records related to their ancestry. The project aspires to create a centralized hub for historical records, vastly improving access for both researchers and families alike.

The Ongoing Journey

Despite some areas experiencing loss of documents due to fires and destruction, the project continues to shine a light on Mississippi’s rich, yet complex past. Especially, Natchez stands out as a critical source of information regarding historical slave-holding practices, standing testament to a journey of social healing and education. Understanding these narratives holds the potential to foster connections and insights amidst the fabric of our communities.

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Additional Resources

• Clarion Ledger: Enslaved Family Records Project
• Wikipedia: Genealogy
• Clarion Ledger: NAACP Demands Change
• Google Search: African American genealogy
• Oxford Eagle: Coach Wally Bumpas
• Google Scholar: Mississippi history
• Clarion Ledger: Jackson Mississippi History
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Mississippi