Bernie, Clay County Arkansas is what I am talking about. It is just about 60 miles if that much from Ripley County. I have Allen's in my line. I have not been able to connect them to the Allen's in Rector Arkansas though. There was a family of Allen's that lived in Doniphan, who had lived in Success , Arkansas. My Great Grandparents lived in Success , Arkansas for a time. I still don't know if there is a connection there. My Great Grandfather I believe was a Postmaster in Success around 1900. Not sure where to find out that information either. There are a lot of McDonald's in the Pollard area of Clay County. Two of the girls married my Allen Great Uncles. Their father's name was Henderson King Melton McDonald. Not sure if any of this helps you. If you find out there is a connection I will see what I can do to help you further. BJ