Contractor may not be a "permanent" job, perhaps just for the length of the project... does this term mean the same then and now? In a message dated 12/12/2009 7:56:07 A.M. Eastern Standard Time, maaisha writes: Yes, Chris and Kathryne are right. I'm not sure, but I'm thinking the turnpike was built about that time. I have found what could be my Thomas Mansfield as a publican in 1851. But could a publican be considered a contractor? Confounded, Lois -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] To: [email protected]; [email protected] Sent: Sat, Dec 12, 2009 7:42 am Subject: Re: [Black Country] Contractor? Details escape me now, but what were major building events at this time? Railroads, canals, etc.... it is good to go to historical picture. Kathryne in NY