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Family Ties WayBack

Brandon and Keaira
Brandon and Keaira

Cousins Keaira (age 17) and Brandon (age 11) can trace their family back to the 1600s. In 1870, shortly after slavery was ended, their great-great-great-great-great-uncle, James Still, met up with his brothers and sisters, all former slaves who had been scattered by sale or escape. They vowed to meet every year...

And they have.

In fact, the Still family reunion is one of the oldest in the U.S.

Read Brandon and Keaira's comments about their historic family gathering, and collect tips on how to start your own!


Meet Ione Vargus, Family Reunion Expert Ione Vargus

What are family reunions really like? Why is it important for a family to get together? Ione Vargus, who helps African American families organize reunions, has the inside scoop!


View the Questions


Learn about PBS' award-winning history series, American Experience




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