Radiolab
Family People
May 19, 2023
In this intriguing discussion, genealogist Nicka Sewell-Smith assists editor Alex Neason in unearthing her family history after discovering her grandfather's name was not what she thought. They explore the compelling significance of names and what they reveal about personal identity. Alex navigates through cemeteries and archives, digging into the mysteries of her lineage, including the challenges faced by African-American families in documenting their heritage. Emotions run high as they uncover powerful stories connecting past to present.
01:03:56
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Quick takeaways
- Uncovering family name origins and connections across generations.
- Transition of name ownership from enslaved to free, embodying lineage.
Deep dives
The Journey to Discovering Family Roots
The protagonist delves into uncovering the origin of their family name, Neeson, connecting generations through time and complexity, from Abraham Neeson, a slave owner, to Levi, a free man. The journey leads to understanding Vinnie Neeson's use of the name, maintaining a bond across freedom and family separation.
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