This sounds like it is the right family. Perhaps the census taker missed them in 1850. I really appreciate all your work. I am going to assume his name was John H. Thank you very much. Nancy In a message dated 8/1/05 7:54:31 PM Central Daylight Time, wmcconne@bellsouth.net writes: I'll give you what I have but it's a guess that needs further research. In 1840, there is a John H. Kirkley in Sumter Co, AL. His age is 20 to 30, wife's age is 20 to 30 and there is one male child age less than 5. This would be right for James. This is the only Kirkley family listed in Georgia or Alabama in 1840 that fits as far as ages and children. Of course there could be others with some variation of the Kirkley name. Both James and Richard named their first son John. In fact, Richard's son is John Hugh. I just am unable to find to find this family listed in 1850 to confirm the father's name as John. My guess would be that they are in Sumter co., AL in 1850 if the ages and birthplaces are correct on subsequent census records.