Sometimes, wills are, arguably, as valuable to history and genealogy researchers as they were for the immediate survivors of the deceased whose will is probated.  Here is an example of bringing to life a gentleman and his wife through the deaths of 4 individuals and their respective wills and/or administrative testimony. At first glance, Jefferson…

One of the biggest obstacles to genealogical research is finding the names of the women in our ancestry.  In the 1800’s, and early 1900’s women were referred to by their married surnames, or as “Mrs.” preceding the husband’s full name, even in newspapers and church records.  In 1840 and before, tax records often listed only…

There is one known photo of Silas Walker Williams.  I would say that he was quite dashing, with bright eyes; dark hair; and a pleasant face.  In the photo, he is seated.  He looks well-dressed.  How I would love to be seated beside  him right now to converse about his life, his family, and his…

Worthy, indeed, are our ancestors.  Worthy of remembering, worthy of research, worthy of sharing with others.