Hi all, I just discovered that my g-g-grandfather was likely Joel Neff who resided in Madison County. I was wondering if anyone out there might have access to probate records or reference materials dealing with early settlers that might include information on Joel. The basic information I have now is: 1830 Census Madison Co. (Macoupin was formed from Madison and Greene counties on Jan 17, 1829) Page 186 # 6 Joel Neff 20-30 one daughter 0-5 and wife 20-30. Joel Neff married Marilla Wilder on May 1, 1828 in Madison Co, IL 1840 census Madison Co. IL page 134 Joel Neff 1-male 0-5; 3 males 5-10; 1 male 30-40 2- females 0-5; 1 female 10-20; 1 female 30-40 1850 census for city of Alton, Madison Co, IL Joel Neff 46 b. Virginia, carpenter Marilla Neff 40 b. Vermont Alvin Neff 17 b, IL George Neff 15 b. IL Robert Neff 14 b. IL Mary Clifford 14 b. IL Mary H Neff 10 b. IL I believe Joel to be the father of my great grandfather Thomas Neff. I believe Thomas was the eldest son of Joel and Marilla Neff, who by the 1850 census is working in Sangamon County. Anyone who might be able to shed any light on this for me would have me in their debt forever. Thanks, Charlie _______________________________ Charles Neff cneff@oh.verio.com