Andersonville *or* the kin and forebears? Why not both? Mailing Lists pretty much discuss whatever comes up, when and as recipients are interested in pursuing topics, responding to queries, whatever. Folks tune in as long as the subject matter interests them or has potential for answering questions. You want to talk history and locale, kick it off. What do you know, or want to know? Have you compiled a bibliography or done some specific research? One problem not confined to Mailing Lists is that those who have done research and make positive contributions find precious few fellow contributors, but many thousands who want to sop up what others have done. Researchers may sooner or later feel exploited and drop back to off-list communication with like-minded individuals. I am fairly new to this list, so don't know whether or how often this has occurred here. jalongley@cwix.com