Author Talk with Genealogist Melvin J. Collier

Genealogist and author Melvin J. Collier presents his new book, From Fragments to Foundation: Uncovering a Buried History of Tragedy and Triumph, a powerful exploration of family history uncovered through centuries of records, family lore, and DNA discovery. What begins as a few names, memories, and unanswered questions becomes a deeply personal journey into the past.

In his new book, Collier details how his search for his paternal ancestors led him to a Civil War soldier in Mississippi, seven generations of resilience, and a profound connection to the Igbo people of present-day Nigeria. Blending storytelling with practical research insight, this author presentation explores how traditional genealogy and DNA analysis can work together to uncover African American family history before and after emancipation. This program will inspire anyone curious about identity, history, and the stories hidden within their own family tree.

This Genealogy & History program is brought to you in part by the Friends of the Dallas Public Library and the General Levi Casey Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and is available both in-person at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, 8th floor AND online via Zoom. Register below for either option!