Thanks to all who responded to my question about a company called Genealogy Research Corporation, based in Huntington, NY. I wanted to let you know that, based on many of the responses I've received, the company appears to be legitimate. They do in fact look for 'lost' heirs who may be entitled to portions of estates. And there are other companies and individuals who legitimately do this work. HOWEVER, there are a lot of scammers out there whose only interest is your money, and it is wise to be wary of 'offers' like this. I think a big clue is whether or not they ask for money before they'll send you any info. The letter sent to my mother named the folks whose descendants they were looking for, and they did not ask for money -- only a response. (Unfortunately, we're not related to them!) Katherine Pitts, Fayetteville, NY