John Fale's marriage to Mary Elam --- 3rd Jan 1797--- is found in the marriage records of St. John's Episcopal Church in Henrico County VA. I believe that because the "new year" at this time began in March, the modern date would be 3rd Jan 1798. There is some confusion about this date, I have seen a book of VA marriages which states that it took place in Dec of 1697...I'm not sure where this comes from. Perhaps the marriage took place in Dec and was recorded in the church registry in Jan? ? I wonder if anyone on this list knows for sure? That Mary Elam, widow of Gilbert Elam Jr, is the same Mary Elam who married John Fail is proven in the Henrico County Orphan's Court Records, which refer to the orphans of Gilbert Elam Jr decd, and to "John Faile who married said Elam's relict". That Mary Elam widow of Gilbert Elam is Mary Hatcher, daughter of Edward Hatcher, is proven by the will of Gilbert Elam Jr, which states "My son Robert to live with my father-in-law Edward Hatcher." will probated 5 Dec 1697, Henrico Co Va. I do not know where a birth date for Mary Hatcher Elam Fail came from, have never seen it proven. If anyone has found a record which shows her birthdate, I would love to hear about it! I would also love to know what became of Mary Hatcher Elam Fail after John Fail's death around 1712......... I believe that she re-married, but can find not hide nor hair of her after John's death. She had a few children to take care of, both Elam and Fail, seems strange to me that I can find no record. Thanks! Cynthia Benua