Some people subscribed to other lists may be aware of this by now but for those who are not, I thought an update on the Freecen project would be appreciated. The Freecen database is now on-line and functioning - I gather that there are over a million entries already uploaded onto it. There is a slight hitch however, and that is there is a phased release of access to it. There were considerable problems when the 1901 census went on-line so the organisers are being cautious. The database is accessed by going to the site http://freecen.rootsweb.com and then going to "search the database" link. You will either get access or be informed as to how long you will have to wait. It all depends on where you are and your service provider. Regarding the Buteshire part of the project, Pat Jeffs, who got the process rolling and did a huge amount of the initial stages, is taking a break so I'm looking after things as best I can. We have a home page at; http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~buteshire1841/index.htm This details the current state of the 1841 Bute transcription. The completed pieces will, I hope, be uploaded into the database within the next week or so. (Just as soon as I learn how in fact!!!) I'll let you know when it's done. There is a link on the home page to Jen Gribble's site from where details of other Scottish counties progress can be obtained. Bill McKinlay