MapGed.com: AI Innovation Meets Hands-On Historic Preservation
MapGed.com: AI Innovation Meets Hands-On Historic Preservation
Explore the groundbreaking intersection of technology and tradition with Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy (SOAL) as we harness community-powered public history research and engage in hands-on historic preservation at the Historic Lincoln Cemetery in Harrisburg. SOAL founder and Executive Director, Rachael Keri Williams presented SOAL’s work to the Rotary Club of Harrisburg on April 15, 2024 (see the video below), and highlighted our multifaceted approach to reclaiming lost histories through AI innovation, a platform for crowd-sourced cluster genealogy research, visualization of historic social networks, enthusiastic volunteer efforts, dynamic university partnerships, and robust community and business collaborations. Join us on this visionary journey to ensure the legacies of African American ancestors are not only preserved but celebrated through cutting-edge tech solutions and grassroots dedication.
SOAL’s Presentation to the Harrisburg Rotary Club Explores the Groundbreaking Intersection of New Tech & Historic Preservation
In my presentation to the Rotary Club of Harrisburg, I was able to capture the essence and scope of our work at Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy (SOAL). This event allowed me to share the depth of our commitment to the Historic Lincoln Cemetery’s restoration and the innovative digital tools we are developing to connect past, present, and future generations.
MapGed.com, a pioneering collaboration between Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy (SOAL) and Breadcrumb Analytics, is a transformative online platform dedicated to community-based public history. This platform brings to life the historic social networks of enslaved individuals, freedom seekers of the Underground Railroad, and many more. Leveraging advanced AI innovations and machine learning, along with crowdsourced cluster genealogy research, MapGed.com enables you to explore and contribute to visualizing the intricate connections that shape our past. Join us in piecing together these crucial narratives and help illuminate the pathways of history with your own discoveries.
Visualizing Historic Social Networks Using AI Innovation & Machine Learning to Empower People to Reclaim Black History
One of the key highlights of my talk was the story of Lincoln Cemetery itself. Established as the oldest historically Black cemetery in Harrisburg, it stands as a testament to the lives and legacies of thousands of African Americans. Through grassroots initiatives, extensive genealogical research, and the tireless efforts of our volunteers, we are not only restoring gravesites but also unearthing the stories of those buried there, ensuring their contributions are not forgotten.
Community-Based Public History – Visualizing Historic Social Networks
Our work extends beyond physical restoration to include the development of digital tools that map genealogical connections and migrations. The development of these tools by SOAL and Breadcrumb Analytics, enhanced by AI and machine learning, help visualize the extensive networks and relationships that have been buried with the people interred at Lincoln Cemetery. This digital innovation allows us to create an interactive, immersive experience that engages both academic researchers and the general public, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our shared history.
A Platform for Crowdsourced Cluster Genealogy Research Facilitates Mapping Enslaved Families
As you watch the video of my presentation, I hope you will feel the same sense of connection and responsibility that drives us at SOAL. Our work is more than just preservation; it is about reclaiming our ancestors’ legacy and making sure their stories are told.
Be a Part of History: Act Now!
The response to our work has been overwhelmingly positive, with community members and descendants expressing their support and sharing their stories. However, we are at a critical juncture, facing the challenge of securing the necessary funding to continue our mission. Despite this, the dedication of our team, volunteers, and supporters remains unwavering.
I am deeply moved by the commitment of everyone involved with SOAL. From the financial backing provided by my family, friends, and community, to the countless hours of labor and the nourishing meals donated by our volunteers, this work is truly a collective effort. Together, we are preserving an essential piece of history and ensuring that the legacies of the ancestors interred at Lincoln Cemetery continues to inspire future generations.
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Support SOAL’s mission to preserve and reclaim the legacies of our ancestors at Lincoln Cemetery. Donate today to sustain our innovative projects, or join our community by signing up at MapGed.com to stay engaged and informed. Your involvement makes a direct impact—help us keep the stories of our ancestors alive for generations to come.
