An organization of family historians, some with Toronto roots, others who live in Toronto, we have ancestors around the world.

Black History in Ontario: Free online series

Toronto Branch is pleased to present a online series of talks this April on Black History in Ontario! Three accomplished speakers will introduce us to some of the fascinating individuals and sources they’ve discovered in the course of their extensive research. This special series is entirely free to attend, but advance registration is required:

April 13—7:30 pm (EDT): THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD 
Our series will begin with the stories of Black freedom seekers who made Toronto their home in the 1800s. Author and curator Adrienne Shadd will share insights from her research for the book The Underground Railroad: Next Stop, Toronto!, now in its 4th edition. 

April 20—7:30 pm (EDT): THE SEARCH FOR ALFRED LAFFERTY, BLACK EDUCATOR AND LAWYER
In our second talk, professional genealogist Hilary Dawson will tell us how she pieced together the family history of the first Canadian-born Black lawyer in Ontario, and documented the Lafferty family’s successes, challenges and tragedies.

April 27—7:30 pm (EDT): BLACK HISTORY IN ONTARIO 1793-1965
Our series will conclude with a review of the timeline of Black history in Ontario. Royal Ontario Museum volunteer Winston Anderson will tell us about milestone events, and profile some key figures with Black heritage who helped to shape Toronto.

Each session will consist of a presentation and an opportunity to ask questions. The lectures will be recorded, so that registrants who can’t attend the live presentations may watch at a more convenient time.

Register now for Black History in Ontario April 13-27.

Nine adults stand in a row for the camera. Photo from the Ruffin Abbott fonds at Toronto Public Library
Abbott family photograph album ca 1863-1950. Anderson Ruffin Abbott fonds, S90, Baldwin Collection of Canadiana, Toronto Public Library. Public domain. In March 2023, the Anderson Ruffin Abbott archive was added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register for Canada, honouring its significance as part of the world’s documentary heritage.