I'm new to genealogy and have traced by great-grandparents back to 1867: George W. Bice and Marie/Mary L Anderson, both of Virginia. Both are African-American. The earliest data I have is derived from the 1900 census. How do I go back further to find out about the Bice/Anderson history in Virginia during the Civil War and before? I assume there is a past rooted in slavery.

Try looking at wills and deeds and tax records for the county. Slave records are almost impossible to find, but you may find a first name (maybe) of someone who was willed to someone. I am at the stage of going through those type of records. I haven't had any luck yet, but I keep looking.

Hi,
Afrigeneas has a wonderful research guide online, written by Dee Parmer Woodtor, author of Finding a Place Called Home: An African-American Guide to Genealogy and Historical Identity (Random House, 1999).

It is a terrific guide with research methods and ideas to further your research. It is online here:

http://www.afrigeneas.com/guide/

Blessings!

Thank you both for responding!

Candice

I too have similar struggle. In the censuses they've 1870 and 1860w/ slave schedule. Do know who owned them? At the genealogy library they offer free classes during the months (assume) its that were way everywhere. Have you checkedout some of the Afro-American genealogy books atyour local library? Check out land records, state census, will probate records, neighbors of your relatives where you founded them, etc. I'm praying for clues also so I'll remember you.God bless your search, Hunterpg1