The Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands was created in March of 1865 by the United States Government and lasted to 1872.  As a federal agency, it was originally administered by the United States Department of War.  It’s purpose was to assist Southern Black families readjust to life after slavery.  Its mandate was to “direct such issues of provisions, clothing, and fuel, as he may deem needful for the immediate and temporary shelter and supply of destitute and suffering refugees and freedmen and their wives and children.”

It also served as an information clearing center for reestablishing family relationships after the horrific days of slavery that split and divided families.  It helped to educate the former slaves, and it became legal “advocates” for African Americans in local and federal courts in regards to contracts.  The Freedmen Bureau became a treasure trove of documents and court records.  There are also bank records from which information can be gleaned.  At this monthly BAAGG meeting we will examine what’s available and among the Freedmen Bureau’s records and how access them.