LIMA, OH (WLIO) - Genealogy researchers put the spotlight on a lesser known side of black history.
The Allen County Genealogical Society's monthly meeting Saturday focused on the early black settlers of the Lima area. The county was originally founded in 1820 and the 1840 census was the first to record African American residents, with a total of 23 individuals out of a population of just over 4,000. The presentation also covered topics like the formation of Lima's first black church, St. Paul AME, and explained that the city's schools had never been segregated.
Local genealogical experts want to show people that there's more to the subject than just family trees.
"It's a part of them, it's a part of what created their communities, and how our society has developed over the years. I think everyone's story needs to be told, that's just how I feel. It doesn't matter the color of your skin, or your background, good, bad, or ugly, I feel like everybody's story should be told," explained Becky Pescosolido, the president of the Allen County Genealogical Society.
The Allen County Genealogical Society meets at the Allen County Museum on the third Saturday of every month.
