Sue, contact the Decatur Genealogical Society. They used to get my licenses all the time. Of course, that's when they were just down the block from the Courthouse; but they may have some useful information. Have you used the Illinois Statewide Marriage Index on the Internet? If you are lucky, it will give you the license no. I've heard recently how much trouble people are having with the Courthouse. I guess it's the same story, "money, money, money, and no one has the time." The last copy I received wasn't even unstapled when copied front and back, not that it matters so much, but it's a sign of the times. No pride. And yet, perhaps the person was just an overworked person who has no interest in genealogy and doesn't consider it a big part of her job. You have to admit that we are a strange breed! Remember too, that the name may have been spelled incorrectly and instead of trying different spellings, the person just tried one. Jane

Let's keep in mind that the PRIMARY function of the County Clerk is NOT hunting up old marriage licenses. They have to do when they are not doing their regular work and in this age of cutbacks that can be a problem. When I go to the court house I take a list and said how about if I come back tomorrow to get them. When I wanted probate files I said how about if I call you in a few days to see the price and send you a check -- which I did and then they mailed them because I was long gone. Generally a clerk's office is one of those places where you catch more flies with honey. Some of them think they are pretty important and it is best to let them continue to think that. Cheryl Rothwell logancty@mindspring.com Logan County, IL, Coordinator, ILGenWeb www.rootsweb.com/~illogan Central IL Regional Coordinator, ILGenWeb Clark, Downing, Harding, Lucas et al