Hello, I have recently joined this list. I am researching the Balis/Baylis/Balus (etc) DONALDSON family (b 1813 SC, d 1896 AL). He married Nancy Katherine WILLIAMS (b 1811 NC, d 1878 AL). They are listed in the Murray Co GA censuses of 1840 and 1850. Balis is also listed as a winner in the 1832 Cherokee Land Lottery in the 9th district, 2nd section. His residence at the time of that lottery is listed as Gwinnett Co. In the Murray County Heritage book, he is listed as a trustee in 1848 of the Methodist campground of Ebenezer church. They had 12 children, Amanda Martha, James B. Zackus, John Madison, Mary Arena, Daniel Vinson, Jefferson Taylor, Wilson B., Wiley Baxter, Claricy E., Joab Umphrey, Columbus F C, and William Newton. Most of these were born in Georgia, presumably in Murray Co as most born in 1840s and early 1850s. I am related to Balis and Nancy through their son Wiley Baxter (aka Doc or Bean). The family moved to northern Alabama by 1860. Balis and Nancy and many of their children died in Alabama. I have seen references to Murray Co marriage records that mention some of these people on this list and would like to know how I might access those. Am interested in any other info on this family, especially, of course, info about Balis' or Nancy's parents. In 1840 Balis is listed next to a man named James Donaldson who is old enough to be his father. Thanks! Sherry Hamby slhamby@carolina.net