Another reason for surnames/places in the subject line is for searching the archives. When you put in your surname/town  in the archive search it will bring up those with your surname/town, something like "Help" or "searching for ancestors"  in the subject line gives no clue.When new members join they often search the archives to check to see if perhaps a question they have has already been addressed, or check to see if their family name has been discussed. I know I do that when ever I join a new list... There are many good reasons for the subject line to be a little specific. I am one who is in favor of surnames/towns etc. in the subject line to separate a specific family question from a general Marriage, birth etc research question. I do not read each and every post all of the time, I belong to far too many lists for that.  I agree there are often hidden gems and when I have time I do read through posts that I sometimes would have passed over if I am busy. . When I am short on time I appriciate informative subject lines, that's one reason why we have them. Jo Saunders http://joni.tribalpages.com/