I do thank Mike for correcting my correction of the first entry of Ralph's surname in the records. A lesson for all us researchers.... go for the original. Sorry to lead you all astray. Gayle Blankenship Hi Gayle... Hate to correct you, but the first reference to Ralph Blankship appears April 1, 1690, Henrico Order Book 1678-1693, page 326. I have copies of the original, and of the handwritten copy made during the Revolutionary period. The entry reads: Upon the peticon of Rich'd Kennon these may certify that there is due unto him eight thousand acres of land for ye inportacon of ninety servts. into this colony whose names are under written & for seventy persons more being negroes, the same being legally prov'd by his oath in open court. The name Richard Blankship appears as the 68th name on a list of 90 persons.