In a message dated 98-01-17 15:44:35 EST, you write: << Is anyone researching the SHEPPARDs from the Vandalia area of Fayette Co., Illinois? >> I am not researching the SHEPPARD family per se but have an interest in and connections to many families in Fayette County, Illinois. << I am trying to document the births, deaths, and marriages of my great- grandfather's family. Here is a summary of what I have, that is mostly based upon info from a letter written to my grandmother in 1942: William L. SHEPPARD, b. 08 Aug 1868 Vandalia, Fayette, IL d. circa 1925 >> From Marriage Record, Book A, Page 192: William L. Sheppard, age 20, farmer, resident Fayette County, born Marion County, parents G. C. Sheppard and Lilia Allgood, married Lucinda E. Friend, age 19, resident Fayette County, born Fayette County, parents Elijah Friend and Mary Roberts, Aug. 17, 1887, at bride's father's by John W. R. Shelton, MG. Jerry Blaylock