Hello Marland,

There is much to learn about the history of Indian Territory. Since your ancestors were Cherokee Freedmen, I recommend that you read the work of Dr. Daniel F. Littlefield, "The Cherokee Freedmen. From Emancipation to Citizenship." This will give you an overview of the tribulations experienced by the former slaves held in bondage in the Cherokee Nation.

I also recommend the book "Red Over Black. Slavery Among the Cherokee Indians," by R. Halliburton.

Secondly, you are strongly encouraged to obtain the records pertaining to your family. The Ledman's appeared on Cherokee Freedman card number 760.

On the card were: Eliza, James, Roy, Josephine, John, Hannah, Viola, Charley, Mary. (There was a Jincy on card #761 by herself. The Buffington's appeared on card #759)

You will want to obtain the Dawes Enrollment Card, and the accompanying interview for the best information on your family. Census images can be emailed to you easily.

There are earlier records also where your ancestor's names will appear, but you do want to also employ some standard genealogical methods to also document your family fully. My book "Black Indian Genealogy Research" is sold at the Oklahoma Historical Society bookstore. (Note that there will be an expanded edition coming out later this year.)

You have a good lead at this point.

Yes, one of the parents or grandparents of the persons on the Dawes cards will have arrived in Indian Terrtiory on the Trail of Tears.

Best wishes.

Sincerely,

Angela Y. Walton-Raji