Freedmen’s Bureau Project Transcribe-a-Thon

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, the National Museum of African American History and Culture hosts a Freedmen’s Bureau Project Transcribe-a-Thon at the University of the District of Columbia Law School. This hands-on workshop invites volunteers to help transcribe historical documents created by the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands—the Freedmen’s Bureau—established by Congress in 1865. These records are the most comprehensive source of information on African American life during the post‑Civil War and Reconstruction eras, but while most documents have been digitized, many have not yet been transcribed. By turning handwritten pages into searchable text, participants will help reveal stories that might otherwise remain hidden, making family histories and broader narratives accessible to researchers and the public. The event begins with an introduction to the project and guidance on transcription best practices, followed by hands‑on work. Light refreshments will be provided.

When: Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Showtimes: The event runs from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm with no separate showtimes.

Tickets: Free, but registration is required for all participants.

Lineup: No separate lineup; the event is a collaborative transcribe‑a‑thon led by museum staff.

Run time: The workshop lasts approximately four hours.

Ages: Not specified; open to all interested volunteers.

Venue: University of the District of Columbia Law School, 4340 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008.

Note: Participants will learn about the ongoing Freedmen’s Bureau transcription project, receive training on how to transcribe documents and best practices, and then work on actual records. Light refreshments are provided. Registration must be completed in advance.