In a message dated 98-06-06 15:34:42 EDT, George writes: << At this point, what I would do if I were you, is pick up the telephone and call. You have nothing to lose except maybe a couple of dollars on a long distance bill and everything to gain. >> Marcia, This idea really works. I live in NJ & nearly ALL my ancestors & their descendants live in western PA. I found the name of a lady who was "supposed" to be related to our family. I called Johnstown, PA & spoke with her. I told her who I was & who my mother was (it's my mom's side of the family). This lady was in her mid to upper 80's & I fully expected her to be a bit "leary" of this phone call from someone she never met. As soon as I mentioned my mother's name (I made sure I used her maiden name)---the woman responded with "Oh---your little Ethyl's girl.". And we were off & running. Now, "little Ethyl" was deceased & would have been 85 if living, so the comment gave me a chuckle. This dear lady (a cousin) filled in many gaps I had been working on for months---all in a matter of a few minutes. I made sure to send her a "thank you" note & a photo of our family which included "little Ethyl". She was thrilled & we have corresponded ever since. Go for it. Sally Huntley