This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: jecroft Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.britisles.scotland.ayr.general/13955.4/mb.ashx Message Board Post: http://www.imchad.freeola.com/ While not based in Ayrshire, Ian McClumpha is an excellent professional researcher. Keep in mind that not all records existed. People had to pay to record births and to marry in church or record an irregular (but legal) marriage. And not all records survived - mold, mice, bugs, fire, etc. The records were kept in the sexton or minister's home and diasters happened. 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.