<< Bernie, I think father of this John H. BALLARD (b. November 1895 per MCAR 1900 census) was Henry BALLARD (b. December 1854, AR per MCAR 1900 census). And Henry appears to be husband of my great-aunt Mary Ann LUTHER (1863, AR - abt. 1881). Mary Ann in 1870 MCAR census with her mother and family. My Aunt, Cleora {KING} ROBERTSON, thought Mary Ann buried at Gassville Cemetery, but no marker; so not located. Early in 2003, found Louis Alexander BALLARD (1 February 1881, AR - d. 9 November 1943, Santa Barbara, CA) in California Death Record Index -- with mother's maiden name of LUTHER. What a surprise! In 1900 MCAR census, he is married to Mamie { ? } (b. March 1883, AR). Household is adjacent or near to Henry BALLARD and wife Sarah J. >> Vera, in that magic hat of yours, would you have marriage for: Louis Alexander BALLARD (b. abt. 1881) to Mamie (or Minnie) {Unknown) (b. abt. 1883) -- possibly in Marion County, Arkansas ??? Would love to learn more about him. And, I surmise that you have experience in obtaining California birth or death certificates. I have a huge book that has addresses, but would appreciate any hints you may have. I could also look them up on MSN home page. Thank you, Vera. Peggy