This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/Jg.2ADI/1368.2 Message Board Post: Stephen, The courthouse in Galena is a wealth of information on people who lived in Jo Daviess County from about 1870 forward. Records prior to that time are relatively scarce and you probably won't find much. Some of my relative were significant land owners in the 1840s and I can find nothing on them. The good part is that they have indexed computer printouts for most of their records. If you don't see what you are looking for check with the clerk to be certain. Then fill out a request/billing form, indicating what records you are looking for, the clerks find it and makes a copy for you. The bad part is that it isn't cheap...oh, and be sure to bring plenty of cash or a checkbook. The last time I was there, about 2 years ago, they still didn't take any type of plastic...good luck. Chris