Searching for Answers.

[Insightful]

Hi I was looking around and came across the website and thought I would join. I guess I should introduce myself...my name is Brian and I just recently found out about my cherokee ancestry and I've been trying to find out a tribe that I could talk to so that I can be taught the history about that part of my life. I feel that it can help answer a lot of questions that I have about myself. From what I've been told by my parents, I figure that I am more than half cherokee and the rest African American. I know that my paternal great grandfather was from Alabama near the Mississippi River and then moved to FL near the coast *not sure which beach area* and that my grandfather's name was Arthur Going If anyone can help me I would appreciate it very much. I hope to hear from anyone soon.

Brian

[wolfhawaii]

Hi Brian, welcome to the site, there is a lot of good people here and lots of good info but you will need good judgment. Sometimes it is best to ask focused questions; what is it you are trying to find out that is not available online or in the library? I am also of Cherokee descent and may be able to help you if asked. Good luck on your journey of discovery////Steve

[MayChe]

Brian, how you tried researching your genealogy? Like wolfhawaii said, try going to the genealogy department of your public library and check the census records where they lived (if the library has them). Start from there and good luck!

[spottedeagle]

Keep in mind, not everything you read on the internet and in books in 100% the gospel. Sometimes you have to weed through the crap to find the truth. What part of the country are you in? Perhaps a visit to either the Eastern (Tennesse) or Western (Oklahoma) Cherokee Reservation is possible.

[Singing Eagle]

Keep in mind, not everything you read on the internet and in books in 100% the gospel. Sometimes you have to weed through the crap to find the truth. What part of the country are you in? Perhaps a visit to either the Eastern (Tennesse) or Western (Oklahoma) Cherokee Reservation is possible.

Dude your avatar is just wrong!

[annie_griffin]

It is a long journey back

Hi Brian,
First talk to your family (cousins,aunts,uncles etc) and write or record it.
In terms of geneology I would start with the US census records.
That will allow you to find specific people in a specific time and place.I've had great luck with the 1880 and 1910 census.
Even though it seems impersonal you can learn a lot.
Of course it does nothing for that indescribable yearning
of wanting to really have known these people.
As to the loss of culture and heritage it is a long journey back.

sincerely,
annie