As usual Edward Harding has posted valuable information for all, not just the newcomers. We tend to forget to do the ground work that is all important to good genealogy work. THANK YOU, Edward and have a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR! Richard Callard

Richard, Thank you for the kind words and support. It means a lot to me when I am able to help someone, especially with something I have such a passion for. You are certainly correct when you say we all need to do our basics first. Some of the emails I get requesting help prove to me they haven't done the basics. Some of the emails I get are funny, and honestly, others are just plain stupid. One prime example of what I get in an email is: Hi. My name is John Doe. Can you tell me if I had an ancestor in the Civil War and how much are your fees? Thank you. First of all, I know the name of the person writing me, but if the surname is Jones, Moore, or another very common surname, I could go through the Confederate Roster, searching through over 1000 listings under that surname. If by chance the surname happens to be very uncommon as was my GG Grandfather's, I might possibly find something. His surname was von Eberstein and he was the only man in the War with that surname. First names, or a first and middle initial are helpful. Also, the man's place of residence is helpful such as the State and County of residence. And, if known, the man's age or approximate age or date of birth is helpful. I guess the point I was trying to make in way too many words was that when you're asking someone for help, be sure to have done your basics first, then give all the information you have to the person you're seeking help from. And, most of all, don't expect the person to do all your work for you. Thanks again for the kind words! Edward