Presented by Historic Edenton State Historic Site and the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, NSDAR
Join us on May 23, 2026 for an ancestry research seminar focused on the challenges in researching African American heritage, tips for specialty research, and finding Revolutionary War ancestors.
This event brings together genealogy experts to share proven strategies, specialized tools, and practical tips for tracing family roots.
To register, click the link below:
<aside>
Historic 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, located at 117 E. King Street
</aside>
<aside>
Lunch registration has closed. Participants are invited to bring a bag lunch and eat in the Courthouse if desired.
</aside>
<aside>
9:00 - Doors of 1767 Chowan County Courthouse open
9:50 - Welcome and introduction of committee members
10:00 - 10:45 - Taryn Kennedy - African American Revolutionary War Patriots in Family Trees
11:00 - 11:45 - Shannon Combs-Bennet - Finding Your Family Using DNA Technology
12:00 - 1:00 - Lunch
1:00 - 1:45 - Dr. Mark Attucks, Sr. - First to Defy - First to Die: The Attucks Legacy
2:00 - 2:45 - Finding Your Story - workshop session with the speakers
</aside>
Taryn Kennedy
Taryn Kennedy serves as the National Vice Chair of the America 250 Forgotten Patriots Committee and a Research Specialist with NSDAR Specialty Research. She is dedicated to documenting African American, Native American, and Spanish or French patriots of the American Revolutionary War. An associate member of the Edenton Tea Party Chapter, Taryn supported the 250th Anniversary celebration during her previous visit to Edenton. She resides in Pennsylvania and has completed her Juris Doctor at Widener University, Delaware Law School.
Shannon Combs-Bennett
Shannon Combs Bennett is a professional genealogist specializing in genetic genealogy and related topics. She is an award-winning author, lecturer and consultant. She holds degrees in Biology (with genetic emphasis) and Genealogical, Heraldic and Paleographic studies. She received her Doctoral Degree in History and Genealogical Studies at the University of Strathclyde in Scotland.
Dr. Mark Attucks, Sr.
Dr. Mark Attucks, Sr. descendent of Crispus Attucks, martyr of the Boston Massacre, holds advanced degrees in law, sociology, and business, along with credentials in security and financial management. An Air Force retiree and a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, he now lives in La Plata, Maryland with his wife, Niya, and their children, MiKayla and Mark Jr.