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Researching Free People of Color in NC and VA: 1800 -1865
Perspectives of a Revolution Genealogy Series
Saturday, June 06
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Join genealogist Renate Y Sanders for a presentation that establishes a framework for documenting Free People of Color in Virginia and North Carolina prior to 1865.
It reveals federal and state records that fill in gaps and guide researchers to reconstruct lives of these “middle ground” ancestors in the Antebellum South.
Presenter's Bio:
Renate is a member of the National Genealogical Society, the North Carolina Genealogical Society (Publicity Director), the Afro-American Genealogical and Historical Society (member of National Editorial Board and Vice-President and Newsletter Editor for the Hampton Roads Chapter), and several North Carolina local societies. She is also a member of the lineage society, “Sons and Daughters of the United States Middle Passage.” Renate cohosts “Let’s Talk North Carolina Genealogy,” an online platform and YouTube show, presenting genealogy programing and virtual events for North Carolina researchers; and she has served as panelist and guest on numerous web shows and podcasts. Renate has provided genealogy education for George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Norfolk State University, The College of William and Mary and for NASA. Her research has been featured on PBS Radio and in a National Geographic cover story and podcast. Renate provides coaching and consultation services for clients seeking assistance with genealogical research and continues to engage in project work for various organizations and institutions.
Central Library
Central Library provides a full complement of library services: reference services, books and materials for children, young adults, and adults in print and digital formats; 3 catalog stations, 1 AWE Learning Station for preschool-1st grade, 2 Children's computers, and 9 Adult computers ; Wi-Fi; faxing, scanning, copying, and more.
NEW SERVICES
Central's Makerspace Studio 8601 offers dynamic programming and educational experiences, including Cricut vinyl cutters, 3D printers, sewing machines, coding toys like Spheros, Ozobots, Makey Makey, and a Whisper Room.
Ruth E. Lloyd Information Center (RELIC) is a special collection devoted to genealogy and local history with a focus on Virginia and Prince William County. RELIC is open for walk-ins, reference service, and by phone 703-792-8380, and email at relic2@pwcgov.org Monday – Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Thursday – Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
U.S. Passport Services are offered Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:00 – 7:00 p.m.
SPACE
Central Library now has more open space for programming and general enjoyment of the library. It offers a strategically designed layout that allows for a better flow, as well as more study and conference rooms for patrons, including:
• Redesigned Children's Area
• Community Room booking for our civic organizations
• One Quiet Study Room
• Two Small Individual Study/Conference Rooms for up to four people
COMFORT
Central's bathrooms have been renovated and expanded and made ADA Compliant.
New, inviting seating is available, both in the study rooms and open-space areas.




