In a message dated 1/28/02 3:01:28 AM, [email protected] writes: << 'm curious Carolyn and other if you know, why was there a big migration to Wayne Co Il in the 1850's? How was that area picked over all the others. >> I think it was because my ancestor Samuel BRANCH's cousin, Jasper Levi BRANCH of Chester, Ohio, a veteran of the war of 1812, obtained 160 acres bounty under land warrant #3311 dated 10 June 1852. This land was located in Wayne Co, Ill and became the parcel from which the town of Jeffersonville was created in 1853. I have heard Jasper BRANCH named the town Jeffersonville because he didn't want it called Jasperville... I think the railroad named the postoffice Geff and the name Jeffersonville gradually disappeared. Anyway, my guess is Jasper BRANCH invited his friends and family to come join him on his bountyland in this new opportunity, where the land was much easier to farm. In 1854 B&O laid their tracks from Shawneetown to Flora through Jeffersonville, which consisted of 3 small clapboard houses. 1855 Census shows BRANCH family living in Wayne Cty,IL 1860 Census JASPER and REBECCA were living in Johnsonville,Indian Prairie Twp. Jasper, Males 50-60 (1), Females 10-20 (1), 40-50 (1). Just my thoughts. Carolyn Remember, you have a friend in Oklahoma!