Hi Danita, In my records, I have an Eli DODSON (1798-1828) died in White County, wife - Mary "Polly" Goad (1807-1830)...had one son, Eli (Jr) who was born shortly after his father's death in 1828. I think he was raised by other family members and moved to MO or somewhere west and was quite prominent. My Eli (Sr) appears to be the son of a William DODSON. Hope this helps....or narrows down the possibilities. Regards, Mickey