This collection of single surname family files compiled by Don Norman covers many north central WV families.  The sources for the information displayed are listed at the end of each file.  The display typically goes down one generation into collateral families where the daughter marries someone with a different last name.  In those cases, to see the next generation, you would need to go to a different file for that new surname for that daughter’s husband to find additional information.  The files are free and open to the pubic and have been since the early 1990s.  That means that there has been a lot of opportunity for public scrutiny, update and correction.  Anyone researching in this geographic area should make these files a first stop.   Go to:   http://hackerscreek.com/cpage.php?pt=262   Scroll down to the bottom.  Click on A-M or N-Z for the subject surname. Then click on the subject name. If there are multiple files with that same surname, search them all to find your subject family.    I recommend that you copy each file of interest and save it on your hard drive.  If you then open it in Microsoft Word, you can use the “Find” feature to more quickly locate the subject individuals.  You can also add notes at the beginning of the file such as the web address where you found the file, the date copied, etc.   I set up a “Surnames” directory of folders labeled A thru Z on my computer.  I copy the Norman files for each of my families.  I also copy each file, mark it up and send the corrections and updates to Don.  The time cycle for update and republishing may take three years because Don has to wait for the HCPD webmaster to make the update.  Everyone involved is a volunteer, so be patient.  Save copies of your work and check back in six months or so.    Most of these files were compiled by Don from multiple sources but not necessarily researched by Don.  It is your responsibility as a user of these files to contribute corrections and updates.  Don is a retired fireman.  It is not his responsibility to research your family.  It is your responsibility.  Don just provides a vehicle for display and referees disputes.      History: I have never met Don in person but we have been communicating since the mid 80s.  We met through the Patchwork Quilt genealogy column in the WV Hillbilly newspaper and worked on the History of Gilmer County published about 1989.  I am proud to say that I have contributed on many families and that you will see many listings of my contributions in the references at the end of Don’s files.  We use to exchange stacks of 5 ¼ floppy disks in the mail which was well before the Internet became to be in common use.    I mentioned refereeing disputes.  I have a cousin who believed the myths published in four books that our common line was descended from a Rev War General.  I finally provided enough proof that Don took the General out and put in the real connection.  Dave Kuhl 210 Glen Eagles Drive Ocean Springs, MS 39564-9041 e-mail: dbkuhl@bellsouth.net