After a week off the air and with a cold winter night outside, I was excited to watch NBC's "Who Do You Think You Are?", featuring actor Blair Underwood.
Blair's adventure spoke to me most because at the beginning of his genealogical journey, he was like many of us. He had some family information and wanted to learn more. Most importantly, he didn't start his journey with preconceived notions. He was in it for the anticipation and excitement about what he might find.
The professionals who helped him started the way I would: use what you know, then go to the basic records like censuses to fill in more information. Blair's journey was very "usual" in that sense. As he dug deeper into the Sauney Early story, he found that it was important to keep digging - there were clearly two sides to the story. As a taphophile, I was secretly disappointed that he didn't visit Sauney's grave.
This episode also highlighted facts about early American laws regarding slavery. These laws had a particular and emotional effect on Blair's family. I learned amazing things! Genealogy is a never-ending education.
Once again, NBC did a great job!
