Research. Document. Educate. Connect. Inspire.
About AAHGS-Surry NC
Our Mission
Mission:
To research, document, and share African American history and genealogy through education, cultural heritage, community engagement, and access to historical resources for present and future generations.
Vision:
A community where African American history and genealogy are fully preserved, widely accessible, and deeply valued, and where present and future generations are empowered through knowledge, pride, and connection to their ancestral legacy.
Our STORY
More Than 25 Years of Honoring Our History.
In the spring of 2000, a small group of individuals with personal and professional ties to Surry County gathered at the home of Dr. Evelyn Thompson in Mount Airy, North Carolina. They shared concerns about the preservation and visibility of African American history within the community.
At the suggestion of Winnie Merritt, the group recognized the need to formally organize their efforts. With unanimous support, the African American Historical & Genealogical Society of Surry County was established.

AAHGS-Surry NC was founded in 2000 and incorporated as a North Carolina nonprofit corporation on January 22, 2002. The organization is recognized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
"Sharing our history ensures that the stories of our community remain visible, accessible, and valued for generations to come.”
Our Values
History
We honor African American history and genealogy by ensuring the experiences, contributions, and stories of our communities are researched, documented, shared, and valued.
Education
We believe history and genealogy should be accessible to all generations through meaningful educational programs, resources, and learning experiences.
Community
We strengthen connections among individuals, families, organizations, and communities through shared history, collaboration, and engagement.
Integrity
We are committed to accuracy, authenticity, accountability, and responsible stewardship in our research, documentation, programs, and organizational practices.
Inclusion
We welcome diverse perspectives, experiences, and generations and work to make African American history and genealogy accessible to the broader community.
Excellence
We strive for high standards in our research, programs, partnerships, resources, and service to the community.
Rooted in Community
Strengthening History Through Partnership
Since its founding, AAHGS-Surry NC has participated in a wide range of historical and cultural initiatives — recording oral histories, publishing family stories, preserving historic places, documenting African American cemeteries, coordinating programs with museums and arts organizations, and sponsoring celebrations of Black history and culture.
Our work is strengthened through partnerships with organizations including Surry Community College, the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History, the Surry Arts Council, the Mount Airy Public Library, and YVEDDI. Together, these relationships help broaden access to African American history and genealogy throughout the community.