Black Americans may gain a deeper understanding of their heritage tied to Maryland’s western Chesapeake Bay Shore, thanks to new findings from genetics company 23andMe.
The company has developed the ability to link individuals to a community of enslaved people who resided in the region as far back as 1619. This group has unique characteristics, and DNA connections can help Black Americans trace ancestors or relatives previously lost due to the lack of record-keeping by slaveholders regarding familial details.
“People in this Genetic Group report ancestors from the cities of Baltimore, Washington, Annapolis, Upper Marlboro, Frederick, La Plata, Bowie, Huntingtown, York, Lexington Park, Damascus, and Avenue,” a report from 23andMe revealed. “Popular foods include seafood dishes like crab cakes and African-influenced peanut soup reflecting a blend of local ingredients and African influences.”
