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Native Black Ancestry helps Black Americans investigate family stories of Native American ancestry through historical records and documented family relationships. Founder Michael Lane Jr., also known as Mike Lane, is a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
A private online consultation provides one-on-one guidance and a personalized research roadmap. Bring the family story, records, or question you want to investigate. Extended family-history research is a separate service.
Explore genealogy consultations · About Michael Lane and Native Black AncestryExplore surnames found in historical records associated with the Cherokee, Creek, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Seminole nations. The free surname index and custom surname report offering provide starting points for further investigation.
A surname match is a research clue. Establish your family's connection through records linking individuals and generations. Ancestry and tribal citizenship are distinct questions; each tribal nation determines its own citizenship requirements.
Search tribal surnames and explore reportsExplore collection guides and selected source descriptions covering tribal and government records, racial classification, personal testimony, newspapers, historical maps, photographs, artwork, books, and original theses. Public catalog pages explain what is available and how to approach the evidence. Full archive browsing and available files are accessed through the member archive.
Browse the public Digital Archive catalog · View archive membership detailsHistorical records, transcriptions, catalog summaries, and modern interpretations serve different purposes. Read the creator, date, publication or repository, page references, and record notes. Missing identifications remain unresolved until supporting evidence is found.
For historical context and independent learning, explore the Hidden Heritage Course, public articles, and historical reading list.
Read our research and source guide · Explore the Hidden Heritage CourseYes. You don’t need a finished family tree or a DNA test. Bring your questions, what you know about your family, and any records you already have.
Extended genealogy research is a separate service. Start with a consultation to discuss your family line, your goals, and whether a research package is the right next step.
Findings depend on the available evidence. A consultation helps you investigate and plan your research. Each tribal nation determines its own citizenship requirements; ancestry and tribal citizenship are different questions.
Treat a matching surname as a starting point. Compare identified relatives, dates, places, household members, and documented relationships before drawing a conclusion.
Watch the surname research lesson · Learn to compare same-name records