In a message dated 2/11/2004 9:10:35 AM Pacific Standard Time, Jespane@cs.com writes: New England Families Genealogical and Memorial: Third Series, Volume I This source is well known to be loaded with errors -- I definitely wouldn't use it for proof of anything. You need to keep looking for actual proof. Sue Susan M. Hillier Roe Seal Beach, CA SueMHR@aol.com "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead, 1901-1978

Hi Listers, Yes the Bellingham Vital Records use Mrs. as do some other towns. The Mrs. was used as a Title of respect. and also that the bride was a respectable girl and came from a good family. .. There fore I would say that Sarah BATES was her maiden name.. Many years ago I had checked this Mrs. against birth vitals and etc. on those I could find and the Mrs. proved to be their maiden name. (not widows) Using the Bellingham Vitals I would certainly,have no qualms, in this case, to use Bates as her maiden name. IF it was my ancestor unless someone could prove me wrong.. Now if it said Mrs in the Mendon Vitals..that would need further proof. Hope this helps a little. The Town Hall does have the original copies of VR's.. However PR 1.. Wright's Diary has been missing from the Town Hall, for years . It was presumed stolen, many years ago. Alice alicep@rcn.com Message from Massachusetts