Hi Jim, I read your question and I know it was a year ago .You have my interest peeked.Do you know James"s parents? I have a James Carney born in Ny and he had 7 brothers ,One was my gggrandfather Elmer James who lived in Illinois area you mentioned.I don't know if we match or not. Their father was from Ireland and Mother from England. I have just found a relative in Ny I will ask him about our James.And would be happy to let you know if I find out anything....Good Luck ........Patti