IRAD at the University of IL at Springfield has original property record books going way way back (early 1830s I think). They have some old court records also. They have early probate records. These have all sorts of good information in them - sometimes medical bills, property (real and personal) distribution, auctions, etc. These can tell you not only who descendants are but sometimes they bring out relationships that are not necessarily obvious, by someone getting more than some one else. They also have the guide books for these that have been published by the genealogical societies so you can find the reference then look up the original. Most of this is Sangamon County, but I've seen some records for other places as well. I haven't been there for a while but they were only open 9 to 5 Mon thru Friday. Much of this information is in original books or originals are in files. The information desperately needs to be imaged and transcribed to preserve it for future generations. Much of it is crumbling when touched. Dave Hunter

Are people able to bring digial cameras or scanners in while they research? If so, wouldn't it be great if anytime someone scanned the material for his or her personal use, he/she donated a copy of he digital file to the Univ. of IL, Springfield? Lee Anne