The reality of the "Underground Railroad" was more complex and far less well organized than many have assumed, but the saga of a people in bondage trekking to freedom remains compelling and inspiring.  William Piston, Professor Emeritus, MSU, will discuss the myths and realities of the "Underground Railroad," placing it in the context of slavery in Missouri, where runaway slaves were of particular concern.

For this workshop, Bill Eddleman, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Cape Girardeau Research Center, The State Historical Society of Missouri and President of the Missouri State Genealogical Association leads sus through this rarely-used resource.  Many family historians fail to use manuscript collections in their research, either because they are unaware of them or think they are difficult to find.  This session will summarize the types of materials and information one can locate in manuscript collections and how that information can help in your research.

Curious about the story of Native Americans in your family tree?  Learn how to begin the research needed to identify your Native American ancestors and what records are available in local and federal archives.  Join us as OGS member and Local History Associate Renee Glass leads us through the complexities of this popular subject.