"A Gathering of Garrisons: The Ancestors, Family, and Descendants of Lot Garrison and Margaret Erwin" has just been completed by its author, Sylvia Kelly Smith of Franklinton, LA. Sylvia earned both her BS and MS at LSU in Baton Rouge. This family history book covers primarily the descendants of Lot Garrison and Margaret Erwin. A small portion includes a glimpse at the ancestors of both Lot and Margaret- - the Garrisons, the Erwins, and the Andrews who represent several areas of the US. Four years in the writing, this family story encompasses the works of several family historians, some who spent over 40 years each in research. Meant to be a book enjoyed by any family member, regardless of his understanding and interest in genealogy, this book is a treasure of old handed-down family stories, as well as historically documented events. Lot, an interesting fellow, left his home in Pennsylvania in his early 20's, ending up in Natchez, MS around 1827, or earlier. There he met and married Margaret, the young daughter of a very community-minded and family-oriented Baptist minister. The book follows Lot and Margaret as they made their move to East Baton Rouge Parish, LA, in 1830, along with her parents and some of her siblings. Nine children were born into Lot and Margaret's marriage, five of whom lived to have descendants. These five children were followed down to their present day descendants. The family made a move into Livingston Parish around 1860, in time for some of their sons and sons-in-law to enter the Civil War. Several Civil War incidents are related. Several neighboring parishes enter into their story. The book itself is a hardback book with over 700 pages and 360 photographs. The pages are 8 1/2 x 11" in size, #60 white paper. It will be Smyth section sewn and bound. Each book will be shrink wrapped for its protection. The cover will be stamped with gold foil lettering. The price of each book will be $65.00. Orders must be made and paid to Sylvia Smith no later than July 8, 2002. To contact the author, call 985-839-3946 or write her at 105 Fleetwood, Franklinton, LA 70438