Collection Information
The core collections in this category are rich in detail and if you are fortunate enough to locate an ancestor in them, can not only lead to more records, they can give you a look at your ancestor’s financial picture. Other family members’ names are often included, as well as their location and whether or not they were alive at the time. Emigrant Savings Bank records also often included immigration information such as the year of arrival, ship name, and arrival port.
In the records of the U.S. Freedman's Bank, names of spouses, children, parents, siblings, and even aunts and uncles can be found on the signature registers. Other information may include physical description, place of birth, residences, occupation, employer, and some earlier records will even include the names of former slave owners.
Banks were often set up for specific groups like immigrants, and members of similar organizations. These banks kept records of their dealings and those who frequented their establishments. You can find names, ages, place of birth, family members and sometimes information hinting to the financial status of your ancestor.
