I'm sure you've all been there. You've spent years and years researching the whereabouts of a certain ancestor who "went west," but with little success. The paper trail suddenly stops. Was he/she abducted by aliens, you ask yourself, as the theme for "Twilight Zone" echoes in your head? My "uncooperative" ancestor, ALEXANDER JAMES (1808-1858), moved his wife, Phoebe Wilcox (1820-1910), and 3 daughters (Anjennette-1849, Mary-1851, and Laura-1854) from Branch County, Union City, MI to Dakota Co, Hastings, MN around 1855. His 4th daughter, Emily Ida, was born in Hastings, MN in August 1856, according to her obituary. Alexander died in January 1858, and his wife returned to Coldwater, MI the following spring. I've spent many years attempting to prove that Alexander James had lived in Dakota County, and died there, but to no avail. I was unsuccessful in finding him in the 1857 census for the region, but admittedly, it was a fast perusal, since time was limited. If any! one who resides in the area could maybe take a quick look for ALEXANDER JAMES in some land records, or cemetery records, or whatever records seem appropriate, I would appreciate the effort beyond words. If not, then could someone who has an understanding of Dakota County resources at least point me in the proper direction? I would dearly like to solve this puzzle someday!! If anyone needs a similar helping-hand in my vicinity (Kent County, MI), I would be more than happy to reciprocate. Thanks!