Kim, Livestock--horses, cattle, etc. were branded with a branding iron with the pattern of the owner. Marks were notches in the animals ears to signify ownership. In earlier times, the animals, especially cattle, roamed free and unfenced. When a stray was found by another person, he returned the animal to the owner whose brand he recognized. It was a good honor system. The Hood County TX genealogy society has their book of marks and brands online with a list of the owners. Polly > Today he listed a few things that were in their county newsletter mostly from > various tax rolls he suggested I look into. The last entry he made was > written as "Marks and Brands" and was as followed: > > Could someone tell me what Marks and Brands is about? I've never heard of > it. Milas GUNTER is my 3rd great grandpa > Thanks, > > Kim