Marie, The suggestions to follow up on John Mandlin family are great! Also, have you considered he may have murdered the wife and kidnaped the children? I would suggest you follow up on the fellow in the other part of the state, he certainly could have had a daughter named Cora as well. I would follow them on the census, look for the Cora on the census marriage and try to follow her through time. If you could find her heirs they might shed some light on it (even if they don't know your story, they may know that her mother died early). Also by following Mr. Mandlin in that county, and his probate record you might find out something about the other child as well. I would also encourage you to check the Arkansas, Oklahoma and Indian Territory census as it is quite possible that he moved that direction. I guess we know that we must presume he is "innocent" until proven guilty...but since her clothes, etc. weren't taken it certainly sounds as if there could be trouble rather than her taking off on her own. Also, at that time frame there should be some notice of her disappearance in the local newspapers. You can borrow Missouri newspapers on interlibrary loan, and if you haven't had that opportunity it might well be worth the time it would take to do so. Good luck to you! Gayle [email protected]