In a message dated 01-08-17 10:36:22 EDT, you write: << I regret to find that a number of the members on this list are not taking seriously reports of my ancestor's efforts to improve the lot of chickens with sore heads. I happen to know that he spent a great deal of time and effort in researching the causes of this precarious malady and in finding a cure. I do know that nowadays that this condition is uncommon and would suggest that he may well have been instrumental in its eradication from chicken ranches everywhere. The name of Doctor LeGear, I understand, is often spoken of in hushed tones whenever serious chicken fanciers meet. LOLOL!!! I'm a chicken fancier from way back!! >> As to how you can tell if chickens have sore heads or not the answer is obvious. You compare them to the ones that don't have sore heads. Unfortunately, the people looking after Columbia (about 170 miles NE of SF) frown upon people stealing from the exhibitions and although I tried to get a picture it didn't come out because the item was behind glass. However, I do have a picture from the internet that I retrieved some while ago of another Doctor LeGear product, "Corrective Poultice for Pigs with Crossed Eyes" which I understand was another major seller.>> LOL the boys had way too much California sun!! >> I found California to be a fabulous place, quite unlike anything I had imagined. I have travelled extensively around the world in my few short years but can honestly say that the people I met in the US were the most outgoing, friendly and welcoming I have ever met. The one thing that stood out for me in particular was their pride in their country and state and their willingness to show it. It has given me the itch to visit more of the country and am already planning to go back again, for a longer period.>> I'm glad you had a good time! I love that area, as I've said. >>As another after thought, it would appear the the vast majority of the descendants of the 1709 immigrant IPs are these days living in the US and Canada. I know it's 8 years away yet but in 2009 it will be 300 years from their arrival in Ireland and would it not be an idea to consider a 300 year reunion somewhere in North America? And more importantly, is there anyone on the list that would consider taking on the Herculean task of organising it? (What about sponsors, exhibitors, etc!!) When you start to think about the task and it's vast potential (historical and commercial) 8 years is not all that far away. >> I love the idea!! I would go for that in a heartbeat. But I think we should make it in Ireland in Palatine Country, but I'll go with US or Canada if the majority feels that would be better (sigh). Liz