This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: piecesofart Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.illinois.counties.white/1149.1156.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: I found your posting interesting because I am researching the Drakes of White co. Illinois. Rachel Drake, who married Daniel Bidwell was NOT descended from Sir Francis Drake. There is ample evidence that the admiral had no legitimate children. All American claims on the estate in England were voided in the 19th century. However, the Nelson county Ky mention proves to be the clue to Rachel's ancestry. In 1790 there is a Cornelius Drake in Nelson co. KY. DNA proves he is descended from the so-called Dutch Drakes of New York. All these were descended from Josias Jansen De Raedt who arrive in New Amsterdam in the 1660's. Note: Rachel names her son Cornelius Bidwell! My Drakes were also in Nelson co KY at the same time. I am trying to prove that the Thomas Drake in White co Ill on the 1830 census is part of my family. We have DNA for our Drakes and it is totally different than the Dutch line. Happy hunting--the Drakes can make you crazy! Art Baum Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.