I have had an interest in genealogy since childhood. A few years ago my mom and I were discussing her side of the family. When she couldn't remember her aunt's year of birth, I brought over the family bible and showed her where I'd recorded it in 1963. I was only nine.

When I began my tree in 2009 I (like most African-Americans) thought my family history would end at 1865. Instead I have found my heritage includes every major European country, countries in Africa and the US. My tree has grown to almost 5,000 family members.

Originally from Wisconsin, I now live in New Orleans with my cute but spoiled cat, David.

About photos of New Orleans' graves: over the centuries vandals have raided some of the older cemeteries. Most are secure but many are locked with VERY limited days and hours. A few are completely inaccessible to anyone without proof of kinship to someone buried there including Findagrave volunteers.

I have had an interest in genealogy since childhood. A few years ago my mom and I were discussing her side of the family. When she couldn't remember her aunt's year of birth, I brought over the family bible and showed her where I'd recorded it in 1963. I was only nine.

When I began my tree in 2009 I (like most African-Americans) thought my family history would end at 1865. Instead I have found my heritage includes every major European country, countries in Africa and the US. My tree has grown to almost 5,000 family members.

Originally from Wisconsin, I now live in New Orleans with my cute but spoiled cat, David.

About photos of New Orleans' graves: over the centuries vandals have raided some of the older cemeteries. Most are secure but many are locked with VERY limited days and hours. A few are completely inaccessible to anyone without proof of kinship to someone buried there including Findagrave volunteers.