This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Benson, Parker and Ayres Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/SS.2ADE/166 Message Board Post: I am researching the families of my great grandfather John Harvey Benson (Willis) who was born in Jan.22, 1873 in Marshall County, AL. His father was William Benson, I am unsure which William because there were many in the county by that name at the time. Apparently Johns birth mother, whose name is unknown died because William married Sarah E. Parker in 1876. Sarah raised John and she and William had 3 children together. They were Frank, Maggie and Zack. William Benson died when Zack was very small. Sarah wanted to be near her brother William Mathis Parker who had moved to Palmer, Texas. (William and Sarah Parkers mother was Nancy Parker). John was grown and married to Emma Ayres- her parents names are not known. The two families moved to Texas (Ellis County)- Sarah and her 3 younger children and her step son John Benson and his family. Sarah died not long after arriving in Texas and is buried in the Palmer Cemetery. John and his family moved from Ellis County, Te! xas to Scurry which is in Kaufman County and he finished raising his younger siblings. Even though I am only descended from the Bensons, my cousins here are down the Parker and Ayres lines and we would appreciate any help with those families. Thank you very much.