Randolph County Historical Black Society

The Aborigines of Missouri, North America

RCHBS is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the so-called Black inhabitants of Randolph County, Missouri and surrounding areas, whose contributions and history deserve recognition and remembrance. Together, we’ll shed light on the hidden chapters of our past, honoring the resilience and strength of our Ancestors.

Cairo, Chariton, Clark, Clifton Hill, Higbee, Huntsville, Jacksonville, Moberly (Magic City), Moniteau, Prairie, Renick, Roanoke, Salt River, Union, Sugar Creek , Glasgow, Thomas Hill

Our Genealogy Search is Different Than Others

Our website offers a specialized search experience that goes beyond mainstream sites like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.com, focusing exclusively on the unique history and heritage of Black Americans in Randolph County. With our carefully curated records and resources, you’ll find information that’s often missing or overlooked on larger genealogy platforms. Start exploring with our search tool below, and uncover the stories of your ancestors that connect you to this community’s rich past.

Connecting Our Bloodline!

Do You Recognize Any of These Relatives?

Can you identify any of these Relatives who were either born or resided in Randolph County, Missouri? Your assistance is invaluable in expanding our database. If you recognize anyone in the photos below, kindly reach out to initiate the verification process. Once we confirm the photos, they will be relocated to the appropriate section of this website. We also appreciate any vintage images you might have to contribute to our collection.

Ira Ewing

Do you recognize Ira? Click image and suggest an Edit, or email them directly to us.

Fred Walker

Do you recognize Fred? Click image and suggest an Edit, or email them directly to us.

Joseph Turner Hughes

Do you recognize Joseph? Click image and suggest an Edit, or email them directly to us.

Ethel C English

Do you recognize Ethel? Click image and suggest an Edit, or email them directly to us.

Dorothy Lee Alexander Cooper

Do you recognize Dorothy? Click image and suggest an Edit, or email them directly to us.

Help Us Improve Our Database. Suggest an Edit!

Click image above and suggest an Edit, or email them directly to us.

Contact UsSubmit New Photo

Randolph County, Missouri, holds a rich and diverse history that often remains hidden beneath the layers of time. The story of the so-called Black inhabitants, Native Americans, and those of Negro descent who resided in this region during the 1800s is a testament to the resilience of a community that faced erasure and adversity.

In an era when information about these communities has been strategically erased from historical records, we invite you to delve into our website to unearth the hidden stories and rich heritage of Randolph County. Discover the individuals, events, and experiences that have shaped this community and made it an integral part of the region’s history.

As you navigate through our website, you’ll find a treasure trove of information, from historical accounts to personal narratives, photographs, and more. Join us in preserving the memory of those who came before us, celebrating their legacy, and ensuring that their stories are not lost to time.

Randolph County Black Newspapers

Discover untold stories in Randolph County Black Newspapers. Our archive features historical content from local publications across Randolph County, Missouri. While large newspapers focus on world news, smaller towns like Moberly capture everyday life in remarkable detail. Find your family’s legacy in local stories, church events, and community highlights. Unearth family histories hidden in these invaluable articles and preserve your roots.

Slave Advertisements 1850-1865

Search our Collection of Ads published in Randolph County's Newspapers dated in the 1800s. 

They tried to bury us, not knowing we were seeds!

Reclaiming Our Bloodline

Our Ancestors, who called Randolph County and surrounding areas their home, contributed their blood, sweat, and tears to the soil, leaving an indelible mark on its history. Yet, their presence and contributions have often been obscured, their narratives left untold.  Join us in preserving the memory of those who came before us, celebrating their legacy, and ensuring that their stories are not lost to time.

Help Us to Grow Our Online Records. Join us in preserving our shared heritage!

Calling all relatives and descendants of Cairo, Chariton, Clark, Clifton Hill, Higbee, Huntsville, Jacksonville, Moberly (Magic City), Moniteau, Prairie, Renick, Roanoke, Salt River, Union, Sugar Creek, Glasgow, Thomas Hill, Missouri.

We’re on a mission to collect and preserve legitimate vital records and vintage photos from the 17th to the 1920s. Your family’s history is an integral part of our community’s legacy. Help us ensure it’s not forgotten.

Click the buttons to access the full list of items we’re seeking. Let’s celebrate our rich history together!

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