Hi How hard is it to get a copy of an birth announcements/obita /death notices from the Newton papers. We are trying to get information on my husbands family: Buena Plyler b. 11/30/1914, d. 11/1978 Fred Carson Plyler b. 8/13.1908, d. 9/1966 Otho Anderson Plyler b. 4/20/1911, Newton, Miss, d. 2/1974 Jackson, Miss. Otho Albert Plyler, birth & death dates unknown at this time (father of Fred and Otho) Johnnie Anderson Carson,female, birth & death dates unknown at this time (mother of Fred and Otho) If you know how I can obtain any of this information would you please e-mail me. Thanks for your help. Pinx40@aol.com

When you get that LAW, you should post the pertinent data to the List... >From: Eugenia <genaerber@usa.net> >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >Subject: Re: [Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses]] >Date: 2 Feb 2001 15:09:35 CST >MIME-Version: 1.0 >Received: from [63.92.80.32] by hotmail.com (3.2) with ESMTP id >MHotMailBC446DB00041400432083F5C50200A0E0; Fri Feb 02 13:12:17 2001 >Received: (from slist@localhost)by lists2.rootsweb.com (8.10.1/8.10.1) id >f12L9Yh10486;Fri, 2 Feb 2001 13:09:34 -0800 >From MISSISSIPPI-L-request@rootsweb.com Fri Feb 02 13:14:00 2001 >Resent-Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 13:09:34 -0800 >X-Original-Sender: genaerber@usa.net Fri Feb 2 13:09:33 2001 >Message-ID: <20010202210935.10193.qmail@nwcst277.netaddress.usa.net> >Old-To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >X-Mailer: USANET web-mailer (34FM.0700.15B.01) >X-MIME-Autoconverted: from quoted-printable to 8bit by lists2.rootsweb.com >id f12L9Xm10447 >Resent-Message-ID: <MniPsB.A.hjC.OIye6@lists2.rootsweb.com> >Resent-From: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >X-Mailing-List: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> archive/latest/77 >X-Loop: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >Precedence: list >Resent-Sender: MISSISSIPPI-L-request@rootsweb.com > > >Linda, dear, you are a woman after my own heart! I don't know if the >laws governing public records are the same from state to state, but I >am going to get a copy of the law from the MISSISSIPPI CODE, and learn >exactly what it says, then I shall have "LAW, WILL TRAVEL." > >Eugenia > > > > > >"Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: >Eugenia, >I understand that these old records will deteriorate; but I do not >understand why some public officials will not allow the use of digital >cameras. What is the problem? > >Something else: What are public records? I ask a rude Chancery Clerk that >question one time and was told, "Why, they are public records. It is my >responsibility to keep these records for public use." I then informed her >that "her public" was there and if she did not let me look at the "public >records" I was fixing to march upstairs and ask the Judge where the public >records were being kept. > >Linda >To: Linda C Kennedy <lckennedy@c-gate.net> > > > >Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 4:58 PM >Subject: Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses] > > > >Linda, I am butting in on your conversation, but couldn't help laughing. > >The public officials who are uncaring and down right rude is the rule > >rather than the exception. > > > >However, I can take them being rude. I'm quite used to that, but when > >a genealogist can't get copies of the documentation of their family > >history, that's a horse of a different color! > > > >Wouldn't it be nice that these government and county agencies who just > >love to waste our tax dollars on frivilous things would invest in having > >a camera or other alternate method of providing copies of these old > >records. That way, they could kill two birds with one stone. > > > >Eugenia > > > > > > > > > > > > > >"Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: > >Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public officials who > >notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found that a >very > >nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local newspaper > >ususally does the job. > >Linda > > > >-----Original Message----- > >From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> > >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> > >Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM > >Subject: Mississippi Court Houses > > > > > >>In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also reside I too >have > >>encountered the same problems. > >>In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely refuses >to > >>let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. > >>the same goes for Sunflower Co. > >>On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is very >cordial > >>and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we can copy >them. > >>I applauded her. > >>Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't believe I > >>have paid any thing in Bolivar either. > >>I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife and also >on > >>his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and mailed >them > >to > >>me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. > >>I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out of >office. > >>How else will we get our records together if they don't understand > >>Genealogy? > >>I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage license and > >>this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher with out my > >>consent and she copied and sent me a bill. > >> > >> > >>==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > >>Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > >>where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >> > >>============================== > >>Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: > >>Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. > >>http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com > > > > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > > >============================== > >Shop Ancestry - Everything you need to Discover, Preserve & Celebrate > >your heritage! > >http://shop.myfamily.com/ancestrycatalog > > > > > >____________________________________________________________________ > >Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 > > >____________________________________________________________________ >Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >============================== >Ancestry.com Genealogical Databases >http://www.ancestry.com/rd/rwlist2.asp >Search over 2500 databases with one easy query! > _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com

County Governments have found a Windfall in the copying business... >From: "Bobbye Davis" <bobbye@microsped.com> >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >Subject: No copies >Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 14:47:52 -0600 > >Gerald Geiger wrote: >Problem lies in not knowing the LAW...If you do, you can quote it to them, >and they will usually relent... >I wish!! I told them I knew they were public records and I had a right to >do >it. I had no problem looking at Sunflower Co. when I asked ,they were nice >about that but refused to budge on the copying. they would give me >certified >copies of the original marriage license for $10.00 each. I said no thank >you >I want copies of the original. They furnished so much information about >both >families. >As for Neshoba Co. they won't budge an inch.I forgot,but it may be the >Board >Of Supervisors who makes this decision for the Chancery Clerk. I will have >to ask again. Most all of my Williams Family and descendants were married >in Lauderdale, Neshoba and Newton Counties. It is a shame. I was just lucky >enough to get an original copy on my gg aunt's from a cousin who had gone >to >Neshoba Co. when they still let you copy. > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >============================== >Visit Ancestry.com for a FREE 14-Day Trial and enjoy access to the #1 >Source for Family History Online. Go to: >http://www.ancestry.com/subscribe/subscribetrial1y.asp?sourcecode=F11HB > _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com

this one made me smile. you are a true southern sister!!! dusty -----Original Message----- From: lucygilbert <lucygilbert@email.msn.com> To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> Date: Friday, February 02, 2001 7:19 PM Subject: Re: [Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses]] >Girls--if I may call us that--harsh words and threatening action can get you >records--once--but often results in suddenly lost files on later visits. >May I suggest you save the frontal attacks for the ultimate resource? I >have been using Mississippi records for over 50 years and I find the old >southern charm works most of the time. First, find out who the people are >in charge--the elected Clerk in a small county is likely to be related to at >least 1/3 of the people of the county---- (The Judge likewise!) Bear in >mind that if you have dead relatives with records in a county courthouse in >MS you are also likely to have live relatives who have control over who gets >into the files. Family goes a long way in MS--ten minutes in civilized chat >with the clerk might produce surprising results---I have helped more than >one Clerk start her own family tree! Over the years I have had many >interesting experiences and have been rewarded with tips on lost records, >help in finding data ---contacts with local people, etc. Many of these >little towns now have librarians and they are often a source of information >and influence--one got me permission to crawl up a 10 ft ladder into a >storage attic to search for a file I wanted although the space was off >limits to THE PUBLIC. The file was there too! > >The trick is to never let yourself get into a position where the clerk gives >you a flat "NO"--The urge to out smart-talk rude clerks is sometimes >overwhelming but keep your eye on the prize--copies of records is what you >want ! and sweet-talk that clerk! Just remember the Judge whose office >you march to with your copy of THE LAW in hand might well be a cousin of the >clerk you just tongue-lashed! Learning the power structure among the living >can sometimes be just as much fun as learning about the dead. Kate > >From: Eugenia <genaerber@usa.net> >To: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> >Sent: Friday, February 02, 2001 1:09 PM >Subject: Re: [Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses]] > > >> >> Linda, dear, you are a woman after my own heart! I don't know if the >> laws governing public records are the same from state to state, but I >> am going to get a copy of the law from the MISSISSIPPI CODE, and learn >> exactly what it says, then I shall have "LAW, WILL TRAVEL." >> >> Eugenia >> >> >> >> >> >> "Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: >> Eugenia, >> I understand that these old records will deteriorate; but I do not >> understand why some public officials will not allow the use of digital >> cameras. What is the problem?) >> >> Something else: What are public records? I ask a rude Chancery Clerk that >> question one time and was told, "Why, they are public records. It is my >> responsibility to keep these records for public use." I then informed >her >> that "her public" was there and if she did not let me look at the "public >> records" I was fixing to march upstairs and ask the Judge where the >public >> records were being kept. >> >> Linda >> To: Linda C Kennedy <lckennedy@c-gate.net> >> >> >> >> Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 4:58 PM >> Subject: Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses] >> >> >> >Linda, I am butting in on your conversation, but couldn't help laughing. >> >The public officials who are uncaring and down right rude is the rule >> >rather than the exception. >> > >> >However, I can take them being rude. I'm quite used to that, but when >> >a genealogist can't get copies of the documentation of their family >> >history, that's a horse of a different color! >> > >> >Wouldn't it be nice that these government and county agencies who just >> >love to waste our tax dollars on frivilous things would invest in having >> >a camera or other alternate method of providing copies of these old >> >records. That way, they could kill two birds with one stone. >> > >> >Eugenia >> > >> > >> > >> > >> > >> > >> >"Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: >> >Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public officials who >> >notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found that a >> very >> >nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local newspaper >> >ususally does the job. >> >Linda >> > >> >-----Original Message----- >> >From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> >> >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> >> >Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM >> >Subject: Mississippi Court Houses >> > >> > >> >>In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also reside I too >> have >> >>encountered the same problems. >> >>In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely refuses >to >> >>let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. >> >>the same goes for Sunflower Co. >> >>On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is very >cordial >> >>and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we can copy >> them. >> >>I applauded her. >> >>Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't believe I >> >>have paid any thing in Bolivar either. >> >>I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife and also >on >> >>his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and mailed >them >> >to >> >>me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. >> >>I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out of >office. >> >>How else will we get our records together if they don't understand >> >>Genealogy? >> >>I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage license and >> >>this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher with out my >> >>consent and she copied and sent me a bill. >> >> >> >> >> >>==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >> >>Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >> >>where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. >> >> >> >>============================== >> >>Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: >> >>Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. >> >>http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com >> > >> > >> >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >> >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >> >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. >> > >> >============================== >> >Shop Ancestry - Everything you need to Discover, Preserve & Celebrate >> >your heritage! >> >http://shop.myfamily.com/ancestrycatalog >> > >> > >> >____________________________________________________________________ >> >Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 >> >> >> ____________________________________________________________________ >> Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 >> >> >> ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >> Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >> where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. >> >> ============================== >> Ancestry.com Genealogical Databases >> http://www.ancestry.com/rd/rwlist2.asp >> Search over 2500 databases with one easy query! >> > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >============================== >Search more than 150 million free records at RootsWeb! >http://searches.rootsweb.com/ >

Girls--if I may call us that--harsh words and threatening action can get you records--once--but often results in suddenly lost files on later visits. May I suggest you save the frontal attacks for the ultimate resource? I have been using Mississippi records for over 50 years and I find the old southern charm works most of the time. First, find out who the people are in charge--the elected Clerk in a small county is likely to be related to at least 1/3 of the people of the county---- (The Judge likewise!) Bear in mind that if you have dead relatives with records in a county courthouse in MS you are also likely to have live relatives who have control over who gets into the files. Family goes a long way in MS--ten minutes in civilized chat with the clerk might produce surprising results---I have helped more than one Clerk start her own family tree! Over the years I have had many interesting experiences and have been rewarded with tips on lost records, help in finding data ---contacts with local people, etc. Many of these little towns now have librarians and they are often a source of information and influence--one got me permission to crawl up a 10 ft ladder into a storage attic to search for a file I wanted although the space was off limits to THE PUBLIC. The file was there too! The trick is to never let yourself get into a position where the clerk gives you a flat "NO"--The urge to out smart-talk rude clerks is sometimes overwhelming but keep your eye on the prize--copies of records is what you want ! and sweet-talk that clerk! Just remember the Judge whose office you march to with your copy of THE LAW in hand might well be a cousin of the clerk you just tongue-lashed! Learning the power structure among the living can sometimes be just as much fun as learning about the dead. Kate From: Eugenia <genaerber@usa.net> To: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Friday, February 02, 2001 1:09 PM Subject: Re: [Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses]] > > Linda, dear, you are a woman after my own heart! I don't know if the > laws governing public records are the same from state to state, but I > am going to get a copy of the law from the MISSISSIPPI CODE, and learn > exactly what it says, then I shall have "LAW, WILL TRAVEL." > > Eugenia > > > > > > "Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: > Eugenia, > I understand that these old records will deteriorate; but I do not > understand why some public officials will not allow the use of digital > cameras. What is the problem?) > > Something else: What are public records? I ask a rude Chancery Clerk that > question one time and was told, "Why, they are public records. It is my > responsibility to keep these records for public use." I then informed her > that "her public" was there and if she did not let me look at the "public > records" I was fixing to march upstairs and ask the Judge where the public > records were being kept. > > Linda > To: Linda C Kennedy <lckennedy@c-gate.net> > > > > Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 4:58 PM > Subject: Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses] > > > >Linda, I am butting in on your conversation, but couldn't help laughing. > >The public officials who are uncaring and down right rude is the rule > >rather than the exception. > > > >However, I can take them being rude. I'm quite used to that, but when > >a genealogist can't get copies of the documentation of their family > >history, that's a horse of a different color! > > > >Wouldn't it be nice that these government and county agencies who just > >love to waste our tax dollars on frivilous things would invest in having > >a camera or other alternate method of providing copies of these old > >records. That way, they could kill two birds with one stone. > > > >Eugenia > > > > > > > > > > > > > >"Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: > >Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public officials who > >notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found that a > very > >nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local newspaper > >ususally does the job. > >Linda > > > >-----Original Message----- > >From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> > >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> > >Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM > >Subject: Mississippi Court Houses > > > > > >>In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also reside I too > have > >>encountered the same problems. > >>In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely refuses to > >>let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. > >>the same goes for Sunflower Co. > >>On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is very cordial > >>and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we can copy > them. > >>I applauded her. > >>Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't believe I > >>have paid any thing in Bolivar either. > >>I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife and also on > >>his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and mailed them > >to > >>me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. > >>I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out of office. > >>How else will we get our records together if they don't understand > >>Genealogy? > >>I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage license and > >>this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher with out my > >>consent and she copied and sent me a bill. > >> > >> > >>==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > >>Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > >>where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >> > >>============================== > >>Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: > >>Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. > >>http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com > > > > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > > >============================== > >Shop Ancestry - Everything you need to Discover, Preserve & Celebrate > >your heritage! > >http://shop.myfamily.com/ancestrycatalog > > > > > >____________________________________________________________________ > >Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 > > > ____________________________________________________________________ > Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 > > > ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > ============================== > Ancestry.com Genealogical Databases > http://www.ancestry.com/rd/rwlist2.asp > Search over 2500 databases with one easy query! >

Bob and List: I wonder if FHC has microfilmed these records. If so, it is an inexpensive method to obtain copies of records. I do understand that some counties in MS did not want FHC there microfilming for reasons best left unsaid which has added to the out-of-state researcher's dilemma. I think it is nice when referring to documents obtained from FHC film that we reference the film number for the benefit of others. Fortunately they have their index on line so those of us using the Net can access them from home and go to a one of their libraries and order up the film for researching. I have been able to obtain copies of marriage records for several family members in this manner. Some of these records are so old that they should not be handled except with gloved hands to protect them from contaminants. Very difficult problem for all of us. In Europe where records are ancient compared to American records, one must make an appointment with the archivist and read and copy the records either with a camera or handwritten and in the presence of the archivist. ----- Original Message ----- From: Bob Smith <papsmith@mail.com> To: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Friday, February 02, 2001 6:06 AM Subject: Re: [Would-be NOXUBEE CO. MS RESEARCHERS] > I have never been refused the service of coping old records from the > old books in any state I have done research in (MS, AL AR TX GA SC MO > IL) > > However I must say I think there are times that some of these old book > should be excluded from photo copying. Many of them are very fragile > and since must be opened wide and laid on the copy machine they are > easily damaged. I would hope that some day all these old records > could be microfilmed so that the books can be put in safe storage > (this is the original history of our heritage and our nation). There > are few Counties in the nation that can afford the cost of > microfilming all their old records. This could be a great project for > all local Historical and Genealogy groups. > > A couple of years ago I was in the Lowndes Co. AL courthouse which has > a wealth of records of the area from the early 1800's. I have never > seen a clerks office more courtios and willing to help, but I felt a > guilt when I left with copies I had requested and helped to make. > Each copy we made left fragments of the fragile and brittle pages on > the copy machine. > > Yes hand copying is a tough task, but remember these were handwritten > in the first place. It is time consuming and not all can spend the > time nor have a laptop computer as I do. This too is a wear and tear > on the old books, so lets work on getting them microfilmed, or else we > won't have them much longer. > > So much for the soap box. > > Robert Fleet "Pap" Smit III > Victoria, TX > > "He who careth not whence he cometh, > careth little whither he goeth" > Daniel Webster > > ------Original Message------ > From: Eugenia <genaerber@usa.net> > To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com > Sent: February 1, 2001 3:08:58 PM GMT > Subject: Re: [Would-be NOXUBEE CO. MS RESEARCHERS] > > > WARNING to other researchers!! > > This is to forewarn and maybe save time and trouble, researchers > needing > information from probate records in Noxubee Co. MS. A congenial > deputy > clerk showed me to the record room. I had done my homework and knew > book > and page of the instruments needed. I proceeded to locate the old > book > which contained the Will of my gr-gr-gr-grandfather Brown, consisting > of > four pages of that book. > > I took the book to the deputy and explained I would like to get a > copy of that instrument, and she turned to the Chancery Clerk, > Mary Shelton and told her what I had requested. Ms. Shelton then in a > very condescending manner informed me they did not make copies of > these > old records because the books cannot be taken apart as the more modern > books do. Gasping with disbelief, I asked how I would go about > getting > a copy of this instrument, and she shrugged and said "I don't know > unless you > bring a camera and make a copy." > > I explained I have been researching in Courthouses for about 50 years > and have never encountered this problem. After a long discussion, she > finally agreed to make copies of those four pages, but told me she > would not > make any further copies from the old books. > > Needless to say, there was little reason for me to spend time looking > at > more records, which incidentally, are probably the more disorganized I > have encountered. > > To save others who travel even further distances than I, the > expectation > of getting copies of your ancestors probate records, I suggest you > take > a camera, or prepare to spend endless hours hand copying what you > need. > > I do not understand how an elected public official can refuse to allow > copies to be made of public records, but Ms. Mary Shelton did! > However, to be > fair to the people of that county, the Circuit Clerk and her > deputies in Noxubee County is among the most cordial and cooperative > that > I have met anywhere. > > Have other researchers found the same conditions in the Chancery > Clerk's > office in Noxubee County? I have dealt with and communicated with the > Genealogical Society in that county for several years, and they are > always > pleasant and helpful. > > Seems if we need copies of these old probates, we will have to have an > expensive camera or wait until the people in that county can have > another > election. > > I trust this warning will be of help to other researchers. > > Eugenia > > ____________________________________________________________________ > Get free email and a permanent address at > http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 > > > ____________________________________________________________________ > Get free email and a permanent address at > http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 > > > ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the > mouse. > > ============================== > Create a FREE family website at MyFamily.com! > http://www.myfamily.com/banner.asp?ID=RWLIST2 > > > ______________________________________________ > FREE Personalized Email at Mail.com > Sign up at http://www.mail.com/?sr=signup > > > ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > ============================== > Visit Ancestry's Library - The best collection of family history > learning and how-to articles on the Internet. > http://www.ancestry.com/learn/library >

Problem lies in not knowing the LAW...If you do, you can quote it to them, and they will usually relent... Tell them to take take their time to go look it up...they usually have "more important things to do" and don't want to "waste" time on a position they cannot win, so they will say go ahead, and let you make a copy...You have to be firm and know your Rights... The ladies at the Covington County Courthouse in Collins were most helpful to me, last Summer... >From: "Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >Subject: Re: Mississippi Court Houses >Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001 16:55:21 -0600 >MIME-Version: 1.0 >Received: from [63.92.80.32] by hotmail.com (3.2) with ESMTP id >MHotMailBC433366003C400431493F5C50200B5A0; Thu Feb 01 14:51:19 2001 >Received: (from slist@localhost)by lists2.rootsweb.com (8.10.1/8.10.1) id >f11Mn9s31053;Thu, 1 Feb 2001 14:49:09 -0800 >From MISSISSIPPI-L-request@rootsweb.com Thu Feb 01 14:52:20 2001 >Resent-Date: Thu, 1 Feb 2001 14:49:09 -0800 >X-Original-Sender: lckennedy@c-gate.net Thu Feb 1 14:49:08 2001 >Message-ID: <005301c08ca2$0f45d800$ea114d3f@necomdisc.k12.ms.us> >Old-To: "Bobbye Davis" <bobbye@microsped.com>, <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> >X-Priority: 3 >X-MSMail-Priority: Normal >X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 4.72.3110.1 >X-Mimeole: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V4.72.3110.3 >Resent-Message-ID: <y03dl.A.BlH.lfee6@lists2.rootsweb.com> >Resent-From: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >X-Mailing-List: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> archive/latest/67 >X-Loop: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com >Precedence: list >Resent-Sender: MISSISSIPPI-L-request@rootsweb.com > >Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public officials who >notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found that a >very >nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local newspaper >ususally does the job. >Linda > >-----Original Message----- >From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> >Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM >Subject: Mississippi Court Houses > > > >In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also reside I too >have > >encountered the same problems. > >In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely refuses >to > >let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. > >the same goes for Sunflower Co. > >On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is very cordial > >and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we can copy >them. > >I applauded her. > >Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't believe I > >have paid any thing in Bolivar either. > >I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife and also on > >his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and mailed them >to > >me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. > >I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out of office. > >How else will we get our records together if they don't understand > >Genealogy? > >I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage license and > >this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher with out my > >consent and she copied and sent me a bill. > > > > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > > >============================== > >Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: > >Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. > >http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >============================== >Shop Ancestry - Everything you need to Discover, Preserve & Celebrate >your heritage! >http://shop.myfamily.com/ancestrycatalog > _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com

HI RESEARCHERS. Just wanted all to know the people at Attala County Courthouse are ver nice. I live in SC, so a trip is impossible. However i called with limited information the Clerk in the office told me to send $20.00 for a certified copy of my great grandparents marraige license and that whe would look for it and send me a copy. To my surprise about a week after sending a money order I received a marriages license on marriage license paper certifiing as to the date of marriage. Annette Ditto

wonderful! Thank you for reminding us that we 'southern women' are taught from birth the art of "catching more flies with honey than vinegar!" --- lucygilbert <lucygilbert@email.msn.com> wrote: > Girls--if I may call us that--harsh words and threatening action > can get you > records--once--but often results in suddenly lost files on later > visits. > May I suggest you save the frontal attacks for the ultimate > resource? I > have been using Mississippi records for over 50 years and I find > the old > southern charm works most of the time. First, find out who the > people are > in charge--the elected Clerk in a small county is likely to be > related to at > least 1/3 of the people of the county---- (The Judge likewise!) > Bear in > mind that if you have dead relatives with records in a county > courthouse in > MS you are also likely to have live relatives who have control over > who gets > into the files. Family goes a long way in MS--ten minutes in > civilized chat > with the clerk might produce surprising results---I have helped > more than > one Clerk start her own family tree! Over the years I have had > many > interesting experiences and have been rewarded with tips on lost > records, > help in finding data ---contacts with local people, etc. Many of > these > little towns now have librarians and they are often a source of > information > and influence--one got me permission to crawl up a 10 ft ladder > into a > storage attic to search for a file I wanted although the space was > off > limits to THE PUBLIC. The file was there too! > > The trick is to never let yourself get into a position where the > clerk gives > you a flat "NO"--The urge to out smart-talk rude clerks is > sometimes > overwhelming but keep your eye on the prize--copies of records is > what you > want ! and sweet-talk that clerk! Just remember the Judge whose > office > you march to with your copy of THE LAW in hand might well be a > cousin of the > clerk you just tongue-lashed! Learning the power structure among > the living > can sometimes be just as much fun as learning about the dead. > Kate > > From: Eugenia <genaerber@usa.net> > To: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> > Sent: Friday, February 02, 2001 1:09 PM > Subject: Re: [Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses]] > > > > > > Linda, dear, you are a woman after my own heart! I don't know if > the > > laws governing public records are the same from state to state, > but I > > am going to get a copy of the law from the MISSISSIPPI CODE, and > learn > > exactly what it says, then I shall have "LAW, WILL TRAVEL." > > > > Eugenia > > > > > > > > > > > > "Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: > > Eugenia, > > I understand that these old records will deteriorate; but I do > not > > understand why some public officials will not allow the use of > digital > > cameras. What is the problem?) > > > > Something else: What are public records? I ask a rude Chancery > Clerk that > > question one time and was told, "Why, they are public records. > It is my > > responsibility to keep these records for public use." I then > informed > her > > that "her public" was there and if she did not let me look at the > "public > > records" I was fixing to march upstairs and ask the Judge where > the > public > > records were being kept. > > > > Linda > > To: Linda C Kennedy <lckennedy@c-gate.net> > > > > > > > > Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 4:58 PM > > Subject: Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses] > > > > > > >Linda, I am butting in on your conversation, but couldn't help > laughing. > > >The public officials who are uncaring and down right rude is the > rule > > >rather than the exception. > > > > > >However, I can take them being rude. I'm quite used to that, > but when > > >a genealogist can't get copies of the documentation of their > family > > >history, that's a horse of a different color! > > > > > >Wouldn't it be nice that these government and county agencies > who just > > >love to waste our tax dollars on frivilous things would invest > in having > > >a camera or other alternate method of providing copies of these > old > > >records. That way, they could kill two birds with one stone. > > > > > >Eugenia > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >"Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: > > >Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public > officials who > > >notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found > that a > > very > > >nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local > newspaper > > >ususally does the job. > > >Linda > > > > > >-----Original Message----- > > >From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> > > >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> > > >Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM > > >Subject: Mississippi Court Houses > > > > > > > > >>In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also > reside I too > > have > > >>encountered the same problems. > > >>In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely > refuses > to > > >>let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. > > >>the same goes for Sunflower Co. > > >>On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is > very > cordial > > >>and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we > can copy > > them. > > >>I applauded her. > > >>Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't > believe I > > >>have paid any thing in Bolivar either. > > >>I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife > and also > on > > >>his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and > mailed > them > > >to > > >>me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. > > >>I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out > of > office. > > >>How else will we get our records together if they don't > understand > > >>Genealogy? > > >>I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage > license and > > >>this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher > with out my > > >>consent and she copied and sent me a bill. > > >> > > >> > > >>==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > > >>Visit the Mississippi-L Website at > http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > > >>where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of > the mouse. > > >> > > >>============================== > > >>Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: > > >>Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. > > >>http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com > > > > > > > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > === message truncated === ===== Edye Higgins Byhalia, MS ====== Friends are angels that lift us to our feet when our wings forget how to fly. Get up to $45 FREE postage with Stamps.com! Click here: Stamps.com http://service.bfast.com/bfast/click?bfmid=27893756&siteid=35532320&bfpage=stamps_com __________________________________________________ Get personalized email addresses from Yahoo! Mail - only $35 a year! http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/

Sometimes they will relent if you request to speak to the judge of the court you are trying to obtain records from. Or if you say you will write to the judge for copies. Judges do not want to be bothered about these things and the clerks know it. Sometime it may work; sometime it may not. But it is worth the 34cent stamp on the envelope addressed to the judge. Isn't it wonderful when you contact a nice clerk and one who enjoys the job of serving the public. TreeMother ----- Original Message ----- From: Gerald Gieger <giegerg@hotmail.com> To: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Friday, February 02, 2001 9:51 PM Subject: Re: No copies > > County Governments have found a Windfall in the copying business... > > >From: "Bobbye Davis" <bobbye@microsped.com> > >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com > >Subject: No copies > >Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2001 14:47:52 -0600 > > > > >Gerald Geiger wrote: > >Problem lies in not knowing the LAW...If you do, you can quote it to them, > >and they will usually relent... > >I wish!! I told them I knew they were public records and I had a right to > >do > >it. I had no problem looking at Sunflower Co. when I asked ,they were nice > >about that but refused to budge on the copying. they would give me > >certified > >copies of the original marriage license for $10.00 each. I said no thank > >you > >I want copies of the original. They furnished so much information about > >both > >families. > >As for Neshoba Co. they won't budge an inch.I forgot,but it may be the > >Board > >Of Supervisors who makes this decision for the Chancery Clerk. I will have > >to ask again. Most all of my Williams Family and descendants were married > >in Lauderdale, Neshoba and Newton Counties. It is a shame. I was just lucky > >enough to get an original copy on my gg aunt's from a cousin who had gone > >to > >Neshoba Co. when they still let you copy. > > > > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > > >============================== > >Visit Ancestry.com for a FREE 14-Day Trial and enjoy access to the #1 > >Source for Family History Online. Go to: > >http://www.ancestry.com/subscribe/subscribetrial1y.asp?sourcecode=F11HB > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com > > > ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > Help yourself to some data at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi in the database, and be sure to leave a little for others. > > ============================== > Create a FREE family website at MyFamily.com! > http://www.myfamily.com/banner.asp?ID=RWLIST2 >

Linda, dear, you are a woman after my own heart! I don't know if the laws governing public records are the same from state to state, but I am going to get a copy of the law from the MISSISSIPPI CODE, and learn exactly what it says, then I shall have "LAW, WILL TRAVEL." Eugenia "Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: Eugenia, I understand that these old records will deteriorate; but I do not understand why some public officials will not allow the use of digital cameras. What is the problem? Something else: What are public records? I ask a rude Chancery Clerk that question one time and was told, "Why, they are public records. It is my responsibility to keep these records for public use." I then informed her that "her public" was there and if she did not let me look at the "public records" I was fixing to march upstairs and ask the Judge where the public records were being kept. Linda To: Linda C Kennedy <lckennedy@c-gate.net> Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 4:58 PM Subject: Re: [Re: Mississippi Court Houses] >Linda, I am butting in on your conversation, but couldn't help laughing. >The public officials who are uncaring and down right rude is the rule >rather than the exception. > >However, I can take them being rude. I'm quite used to that, but when >a genealogist can't get copies of the documentation of their family >history, that's a horse of a different color! > >Wouldn't it be nice that these government and county agencies who just >love to waste our tax dollars on frivilous things would invest in having >a camera or other alternate method of providing copies of these old >records. That way, they could kill two birds with one stone. > >Eugenia > > > > > > >"Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> wrote: >Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public officials who >notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found that a very >nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local newspaper >ususally does the job. >Linda > >-----Original Message----- >From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> >To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> >Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM >Subject: Mississippi Court Houses > > >>In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also reside I too have >>encountered the same problems. >>In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely refuses to >>let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. >>the same goes for Sunflower Co. >>On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is very cordial >>and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we can copy them. >>I applauded her. >>Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't believe I >>have paid any thing in Bolivar either. >>I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife and also on >>his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and mailed them >to >>me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. >>I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out of office. >>How else will we get our records together if they don't understand >>Genealogy? >>I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage license and >>this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher with out my >>consent and she copied and sent me a bill. >> >> >>==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >>Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >>where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. >> >>============================== >>Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: >>Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. >>http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >============================== >Shop Ancestry - Everything you need to Discover, Preserve & Celebrate >your heritage! >http://shop.myfamily.com/ancestrycatalog > > >____________________________________________________________________ >Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 ____________________________________________________________________ Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1

Gerald Geiger wrote: Problem lies in not knowing the LAW...If you do, you can quote it to them, and they will usually relent... I wish!! I told them I knew they were public records and I had a right to do it. I had no problem looking at Sunflower Co. when I asked ,they were nice about that but refused to budge on the copying. they would give me certified copies of the original marriage license for $10.00 each. I said no thank you I want copies of the original. They furnished so much information about both families. As for Neshoba Co. they won't budge an inch.I forgot,but it may be the Board Of Supervisors who makes this decision for the Chancery Clerk. I will have to ask again. Most all of my Williams Family and descendants were married in Lauderdale, Neshoba and Newton Counties. It is a shame. I was just lucky enough to get an original copy on my gg aunt's from a cousin who had gone to Neshoba Co. when they still let you copy.

Wanda, thanks for your comments, and did I ever get a laugh! I do believe you may have visiting my home county! And it certainly does ring true of the staff at some libraries--my hometown, to be sure! It is unreal to believe that clerks and deputies, and even library workers, sit on their hands and allow people to walk out the doors with books and records, while we try so hard to protect and handle the books and records with kid gloves because our business of family research is of such a serious nature and makes us appreciate cooperation from the very employees who are paid salaries via our tax money. On the other hand, it is so refreshing to have the staff of these county offices treat us with warm greetings and offers help to find records, etc. Maybe we should express our appreciation to the Boards of Supervisors in our hometowns for those cheerful and helpful employees and let them know that they have their jobs because of our votes and that we expect them to look after those records and the needs for those public records. This will make a good plank for someone to run on in the next county election, don't you think? Thanks for your interest. Eugenia wjclac@juno.com wrote: Per another letter regarding copy, I would like to confirm, that Sunflower Co. clerk refused to allow me to copy document also. They typed me a document and charged me $5.00 for it, when a copy machine copy would have been a much lesser amount. I went to another courthouse and found that some books were missing and that clerical staff was playing solitaire on computer and did not want to help locate book and point out the order of the filed records. But as others have said, there are more co-operative Clerks than uncooperative clerks, so we need to be very thankful for those elected people and their staff who are so willing to serve the public whether it be local voters or out of area people needing access to public records. Wanda ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== Help yourself to some data at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi in the database, and be sure to leave a little for others. ============================== Visit Ancestry.com for a FREE 14-Day Trial and enjoy access to the #1 Source for Family History Online. Go to: http://www.ancestry.com/subscribe/subscribetrial1y.asp?sourcecode=F11HB ____________________________________________________________________ Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1

Per another letter regarding copy, I would like to confirm, that Sunflower Co. clerk refused to allow me to copy document also. They typed me a document and charged me $5.00 for it, when a copy machine copy would have been a much lesser amount. I went to another courthouse and found that some books were missing and that clerical staff was playing solitaire on computer and did not want to help locate book and point out the order of the filed records. But as others have said, there are more co-operative Clerks than uncooperative clerks, so we need to be very thankful for those elected people and their staff who are so willing to serve the public whether it be local voters or out of area people needing access to public records. Wanda

I have never been refused the service of coping old records from the old books in any state I have done research in (MS, AL AR TX GA SC MO IL) However I must say I think there are times that some of these old book should be excluded from photo copying. Many of them are very fragile and since must be opened wide and laid on the copy machine they are easily damaged. I would hope that some day all these old records could be microfilmed so that the books can be put in safe storage (this is the original history of our heritage and our nation). There are few Counties in the nation that can afford the cost of microfilming all their old records. This could be a great project for all local Historical and Genealogy groups. A couple of years ago I was in the Lowndes Co. AL courthouse which has a wealth of records of the area from the early 1800's. I have never seen a clerks office more courtios and willing to help, but I felt a guilt when I left with copies I had requested and helped to make. Each copy we made left fragments of the fragile and brittle pages on the copy machine. Yes hand copying is a tough task, but remember these were handwritten in the first place. It is time consuming and not all can spend the time nor have a laptop computer as I do. This too is a wear and tear on the old books, so lets work on getting them microfilmed, or else we won't have them much longer. So much for the soap box. Robert Fleet "Pap" Smit III Victoria, TX "He who careth not whence he cometh, careth little whither he goeth" Daniel Webster ------Original Message------ From: Eugenia <genaerber@usa.net> To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com Sent: February 1, 2001 3:08:58 PM GMT Subject: Re: [Would-be NOXUBEE CO. MS RESEARCHERS] WARNING to other researchers!! This is to forewarn and maybe save time and trouble, researchers needing information from probate records in Noxubee Co. MS. A congenial deputy clerk showed me to the record room. I had done my homework and knew book and page of the instruments needed. I proceeded to locate the old book which contained the Will of my gr-gr-gr-grandfather Brown, consisting of four pages of that book. I took the book to the deputy and explained I would like to get a copy of that instrument, and she turned to the Chancery Clerk, Mary Shelton and told her what I had requested. Ms. Shelton then in a very condescending manner informed me they did not make copies of these old records because the books cannot be taken apart as the more modern books do. Gasping with disbelief, I asked how I would go about getting a copy of this instrument, and she shrugged and said "I don't know unless you bring a camera and make a copy." I explained I have been researching in Courthouses for about 50 years and have never encountered this problem. After a long discussion, she finally agreed to make copies of those four pages, but told me she would not make any further copies from the old books. Needless to say, there was little reason for me to spend time looking at more records, which incidentally, are probably the more disorganized I have encountered. To save others who travel even further distances than I, the expectation of getting copies of your ancestors probate records, I suggest you take a camera, or prepare to spend endless hours hand copying what you need. I do not understand how an elected public official can refuse to allow copies to be made of public records, but Ms. Mary Shelton did! However, to be fair to the people of that county, the Circuit Clerk and her deputies in Noxubee County is among the most cordial and cooperative that I have met anywhere. Have other researchers found the same conditions in the Chancery Clerk's office in Noxubee County? I have dealt with and communicated with the Genealogical Society in that county for several years, and they are always pleasant and helpful. Seems if we need copies of these old probates, we will have to have an expensive camera or wait until the people in that county can have another election. I trust this warning will be of help to other researchers. Eugenia ____________________________________________________________________ Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 ____________________________________________________________________ Get free email and a permanent address at http://www.netaddress.com/?N=1 ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. ============================== Create a FREE family website at MyFamily.com! http://www.myfamily.com/banner.asp?ID=RWLIST2 ______________________________________________ FREE Personalized Email at Mail.com Sign up at http://www.mail.com/?sr=signup

Dear List, I haven't met a nicer bunch of people than those in Amite County and Wilkinson County. I must say though, the cost of copies at Wilkinson is way too much - 50cents a page but hey, it is one of a kind information so I bring a big notebook, save my money before I go and skip lunch for copy money. Amite is still 25cents a page and that really should be standard. They can still make 20cents even on that. I think the more I go in -and half listen to some of the conversations while transcribing deeds, etc.--I understand more of what the employees must endure from the general public. They get a lot of flak from people for the silliest things and some of the most exasperating questions. I understand why the employees appear to be aloof. However, this in no way excuses rude or cynical responses to simple questions or directions. Another thing to remember, most of these employees will be there a long time--small towns have few jobs which pay well or are permanent. So no matter what, smile, say a prayer for them to have a better day and remain calm, you may very well see them again. If nothing else works, I agree, write a letter to editor. However, try to find at least one thing nice to say about the records room, even if it how nice the chairs look--you always want to end and begin on a positive note whenever possible. A thank you note would also be appropriate to helpful county clerks -- I imagine not many of us have sent too many of those or letters to the editors thanking the court employees for their helpful and thoughtful manner on behalf of their county. Happy Trails to You, Kathy

Wilburn Brown married Elizabeth Savanna Barron around the yr. 1892 some where in Miss not sure which co maybe Fulton, thanks , Faye in morgan co, al

Art, I definately agree with doing everything possible to preserve our public records. I don't have a problem with not being able to photocopy books or pages. I can take a legal pad and copy down the information I need. My problem is in cases where I have been told by public servants in local courthouses that I cannot "view" the "old" records. You write " If the public official doesn't care and the researcher doesn't care then who's looking after the interest of those that come afterwards." We should all be looking out for those who come afterwards, but what is the point of preserving our records, if we are not allow to view them? To me, records not used are like an unread book - worthless. Linda

Rude public officials are difficult to deal with and we have them at many of our court houses, but a rule regarding how certain books of records that are old and fragile must be handled is entirely justified. The folks that are responsible for maintaining our public records that apply and enforce such a rule should be supported. Their efforts make it possible for these records to be there for our future generations. Many of our genealogy libraries have many books that cannot be copied on even the machines designed for books. To try and copy some of the old hand sewn books will break the book cover down and in a short while the pages will be falling out. If the public official doesn't care and the researcher doesn't care then who's looking after the interest of those that come afterwards. Be prepared. Take your camera with high speed film and the appropriate lens. Take plenty of note paper and at least two mechanical pencils with extra lead and allow lots of time for the job. And thank that court house clerk for doing his or her job and for understanding the importance of preserving genealogy records. Art Morgan ----- Original Message ----- From: "Linda C Kennedy" <lckennedy@c-gate.net> To: <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> Sent: Thursday, February 01, 2001 4:55 PM Subject: Re: Mississippi Court Houses > Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public officials who > notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found that a very > nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local newspaper > ususally does the job. > Linda > > -----Original Message----- > From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> > To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> > Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM > Subject: Mississippi Court Houses > > > >In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also reside I too have > >encountered the same problems. > >In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely refuses to > >let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. > >the same goes for Sunflower Co. > >On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is very cordial > >and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we can copy them. > >I applauded her. > >Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't believe I > >have paid any thing in Bolivar either. > >I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife and also on > >his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and mailed them > to > >me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. > >I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out of office. > >How else will we get our records together if they don't understand > >Genealogy? > >I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage license and > >this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher with out my > >consent and she copied and sent me a bill. > > > > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > > >============================== > >Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: > >Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. > >http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com > > > ==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== > Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi > where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > > ============================== > Shop Ancestry - Everything you need to Discover, Preserve & Celebrate > your heritage! > http://shop.myfamily.com/ancestrycatalog >

Bobbye from time to time I have also runned into public officials who notonly refuse to help me but are also down right rude. I found that a very nice, polite letter to the editor of the county's/city's local newspaper ususally does the job. Linda -----Original Message----- From: Bobbye Davis <bobbye@microsped.com> To: MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com <MISSISSIPPI-L@rootsweb.com> Date: Thursday, February 01, 2001 10:17 AM Subject: Mississippi Court Houses >In doing my research of my home state of Ms. where I also reside I too have >encountered the same problems. >In Neshoba county the circuit clerk Patty Duncan Lee absolutely refuses to >let you take pictures or copy the marriage license of Neshoba. >the same goes for Sunflower Co. >On the other hand when I go home to Bolivar Co. the clerk is very cordial >and says no matter how old and even if they are hand sewn we can copy them. >I applauded her. >Leflore County is always nice to and never charge me. I don't believe I >have paid any thing in Bolivar either. >I requested divorce records on my grand father and first wife and also on >his oldest son and first wife. Lauderdale Co. copies them and mailed them to >me right away. I sent a check back to cover the cost. >I think the Clerks that refuse to help us need to be voted out of office. >How else will we get our records together if they don't understand >Genealogy? >I did write another county asking for copies of the marriage license and >this county does not copy but turned it over to a researcher with out my >consent and she copied and sent me a bill. > > >==== MISSISSIPPI Mailing List ==== >Visit the Mississippi-L Website at http://www.rootsweb.com/~mississi >where you can both SUBSCRIBE and UNSUBSCRIBE with a click of the mouse. > >============================== >Join the RootsWeb WorldConnect Project: >Linking the world, one GEDCOM at a time. >http://worldconnect.rootsweb.com