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Patriots of Color: Stories of Courage, Resistance, and Legacy
As Boston prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, Patriots of Color shines a light on the overlooked stories of Black, Native, and multiracial individuals who shaped the fight for independence. Through original documents, interactive displays, and contemporary artistic interpretation, the exhibition highlights 26 Patriots from across the 13 colonies and connects their stories to living descendants today. OPEN NOW at the Family Heritage Experience.
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Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Unveils First Officially Vetted List & Memorial Plaque of Boston Tea Party Participants
December 16, 2025
Come visit us at 97 Newbury Street, Boston.
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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Vita Brevis
A Resource for Family History
There's something new to discover every week on our blog Vita Brevis. From expert research advice to jaw-dropping family connections, celebrity genealogies, and more, you'll discover stories about families of every kind—and learn why family history matters to everybody.
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Upcoming Events
Massachusetts Research: Four Centuries of History and Genealogy
April 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29
10 Million Names is a new initiative to recover the names and stories of the estimated 10 million men, women, and children of African descent who were enslaved in America between the 1500s and 1865.
Together with a collaborative network of genealogists, cultural organizations, and community-based family historians, we will amplify centuries of family stories, connect researchers and data partners with people seeking answers to family history questions, and expand access to information about enslaved African Americans.
Pope Leo XIV’s Ancestry
American Ancestors worked with Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and others to research and document the new Pope’s family tree. Read stories about the Pope's ancestors and explore the Pope's lineage using the link below.
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Shop the American Ancestors Bookstore
The American Ancestors Bookstore is your one-stop shop for reference books, published genealogies, portable guides, charts, and much more. Whether you're building your own genealogical library or finding a gift for the family historian in your life, American Ancestors has what you need!
I can't tell you how great it feels to be so supported by American Ancestors and those of you who bring together such quality programming and make sure it goes as planned. The online courses, the website, the databases, the "chat with a genealogist" opportunities, the list goes on . . . it all is simply a treasure. For years my mom was a member of American Ancestors and found it so helpful; I just wish she were still alive to attend and enjoy with me the courses now offered. She would be delighted to know that I'm following in her footsteps.