I am new to the BIRD family mailing list, so I hope the following is an appropriate, as well as helpful, posting: I am interested in obtaining more information about the Bird family, living in upstate NY (specifically Toddsville, Town of Hartwick, Otsego Co) around 1850. My ggrandfather, John BIRD, was born in upstate NY (probably Toddsville) about 1854. In 1881, he married (Mary) Martha NESTLE and they had 6 children, five of whom survived infancy. They were: Minnie, Lillie, Melvin C. (born 1886), William, and George. Melvin is my grandfather. The 1900 census finds the family living in Toddsville, and listing all ancestors (both of John and Martha's parents) as having been born in New York State. This is the only *hard* evidence I have. I have two other "stray" Bird references, both in Toddsville, also. (1) I have a Cornelius Bird, born in 1846, who served in the Civil War. I am hoping he is John's brother, as my granddad's middle name is Cornelius. (2)I have a George Bird, probable dob about 1897, who served as a private in World War I. I'm "guessing" he might be Cornelius's son. I have more information on my granddad's siblings, but that's about it. Any help anyone could give me in finding out more about the Birds of Toddsville I would greatly appreciate! Thanks! Marsha Strong Gainesville, FL