From Virginia to Guam: Tracing A Black Family via DNA and Maritime Records

What if a DNA test connected your family to an island half a world away? In this session, presenter Andre Kearns reveals how he traced his free Black ancestor from 1800s Virginia to Guam—uncovering a forgotten family branch through genetic matches and maritime records from the New Bedford Whaling Museum. You’ll learn how to connect the dots between surprising DNA results and historical migration, using underutilized resources like whaling ship logs, crew manifests, and museum archives. If you're curious about tracing ancestors who ventured far from home—or want to explore the rich legacy of Black mariners—this session will inspire new possibilities for your research.