This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: SusanUK Surnames: Barnes' Candlish; Murray; Stokes Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.britisles.scotland.ayr.general/13995.3.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Hello Rayleen, I once got confused with the John Barnes/Elizabeth Tait line. I discovered that they belonged to a completely separate tree. These Barneses lived in the same areas as mine, and even did similar jobs, but I have never been able to make a connection. I am in contact with one of their descendants. Annie Gourlay is also a red herring. John Barnes was born in 1806 in County Down, Ireland.He married Elisabeth McCandlesh (various spellings) on 10th Jan 1825 in Ballantrae. In 1841, they were living in Lower Church Lane, Kilmarnock, with their 6 children, including your Joseph, but without my Samuel.In 1851, John is in Crompton Street Riccarton, but is now married to Janet (nee REID). Only their sons Robert & Joseph are with them.In 1861, John and Janet are in Sandbed Street, Kilmarnock. They had been married in Kilmarnock on 15th Aug 1845. I haven't been able to find any evidence of Elizabeth Candlishs' death, but have it logged as between 1841-1845. The other record I have is his Poor relief application from 1865. He has asthma, has "deserted his wife". He is admitted to the poorhouse at his own request and dies there on 8th July 1868. In this document, he states that his son John is "in America". I have had a look at some American records, but have not found a definitive John. You probably already know much of this. It will probably be easier if we contact each other directly. My address is susan@theshermanfamily.co.uk Susan Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.