Hi All, After a bit of activity on this subject things have quieted down again. Lets see what I can do to stir it up again. First, I'd like to make the point that my interest is through James' brother William so I don't share the interest in trying to connect to the later James that some of you do. But I'll work on any lead which helps clarify the father of James and William. Re sources, I do have the work of Dr Kelly as corrected. That was my first find regarding this line and the Williams which connects to it. I see often references to David Johnson's "New River Valley" which I've looked at some time in the past and copied a few things but I've never seen anyone mention "The Irish Burks" by Patricia Givens Johnson. Have wondered why. Do some not consider it a good source or what? Also, I've always been curious about the relationship between Patricia and David. Does anyone know? Given the similar areas they work in I've always assumed there must be some relationship - brother and sister-in-law maybe?? I've personally had some concerns about the validity of David's work given the number of times I've seen things which appear to have been proven wrong. Perhaps my concerns are misplaced? And recently I've seen here the references to "3500 Years..." What do those who have seen it think of it's validity? Does the subjects which it covers which have been proven by others seem to match up? Are there any other sources which contribute in a significant way to this problem? (Significant is a lousy word here as any bit of data helps but I'm asking about sources which generally address some part of this family in this time frame - hope someone figures out what I'm trying to ask). Does anyone have a copy of James's will (not a transcription) which they could scan and send to me? I have received two transcriptions and they differ in some not so insignificant ways - would like to see the writing for myself. If so, thank you in advance. Seems to me some discussion of the availability and quality of sources would help towards getting all to at least understand each other's viewpoints and the interpretation of the information. Anyway, there's my two cents for working the problem. And I don't pretend to have worked it nearly as hard or as long as many of you so you're more than welcome to point out to me the error of my ways. With sincerity if not intelligence. Ray Green [email protected] ==== BURK Mailing List ==== Research friendly!!! Treat other researchers as you wish to be treated!!! List Manager: Jim Young <[email protected]> =======================================================