When people begin looking for their family roots, the paper trail inevitably leads to a dead end.
Harvard Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr. has pioneered a method of genealogical research that incorporates DNA research.
His methodology was featured in the PBS miniseries "African American Lives."
Southern Vermont College in Bennington is one of the first institutions to adopt Gate’s research approach.
Students studied their own roots and created an exhibit now on display at the Bennington Museum.
Gates will be in Vermont Friday to speak about his research and see the student exhibit.
Gates speaks with VPR’s Neal Charnoff.
Click listen to hear the entire interview.