In addition to the information provided by Linda, I can add that some of the other Brooks orphans show up in the household of Shelton Lessley in the 1880 census. Below are my notes. Shelton appears in the 1880 census for Randolph Co., MO on page 27, Enumeration Dist. No. 113, Monitau Township. His age is listed as 47, his occupation as "dry goods dealer" and his place of birth as Missouri. Both of his parents are listed as having been born in Kentucky. Also present in the household is his wife, Orphy J., his son May W. and his mother Lucy A. Other relative living in the household are Mary S. Brooks (sister-in-law), Claudie Brooks (brother-in-law) and John H. Cook (cousin). Linda - any idea how Benjamin R. Brooks and his wife Sarah E. Taylor died? Carole Brace In a message dated 3/27/2006 3:46:19 PM Eastern Standard Time, [email protected] writes: Brooks and Burton researchers, Does anyone have information on the family of the Minerva Brooks that married May Medley Burton on 4 December 1845, in Randolph Co., Missouri? I have found May M. and Minerva Burton in the 1880 Randolph Co., Census, and with them is listed what appears to be Neppie Brooks (age 18), and Ader Brooks (age 15), both are listed as niece, orphan, born in Missouri, both parents were born in Missouri. I would appreciate any and all help. Thank you, Ms. Cecil V. Boyd