Black Families Connect to Ancestors with New Missouri Database

Black families in Jackson County, Missouri, can now more easily trace their ancestors who were enslaved, thanks to a new digital database launched in February 2026. Developed by the Wornall Majors House Museums, the resource transforms 19th-century Jackson County records into searchable names, aiding individuals in connecting with their family lineage.

For many Black Americans, historical erasure during enslavement made this connection difficult. Reggie James, 75, a retired schoolteacher, spent nearly 50 years manually searching census records, newspaper clippings, and county deeds to trace his family. His efforts identified his paternal grandmother, Oletha Brookins, born in 1905, and his second great-grandfather, George, who was enslaved in Jackson County.

Sarah Bader-King, the museums' executive director, initiated the database by researching Alexander Majors, a pioneer freighter who enslaved at least 23 people. Staff discovered a deed of trust listing nine enslaved individuals by name and age. This led them to hundreds more deeds, wills, probate records, and bills of sale in the Jackson County Recorder of Deeds office. The museum summarized and digitized these documents to create the online tool.

Kevin McPartland, an assistant project manager with Kansas City’s Monument Coalition, which funded the project, emphasized that the records represent individuals—mothers, fathers, daughters, brothers, and sisters—not just property.

The database is free to use and offers up to two hours of research assistance from the museum. The resource provides a tool for anyone seeking to uncover their family’s past and understand their ancestors’ sacrifices.