Thank you mam! Jackie Gigi Tanksley wrote: >Yes they do.... > >http://www.starherald.net/news<http://www.starherald.net/news> > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Tanimara<mailto:[email protected]> > To: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> > Sent: Friday, May 07, 2004 11:56 AM > Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records stored in the AttalaCourthouse > > > Does The Star Herald have a website also? > > Jackie > > > > > > > > ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > The American Local History Network, Attala County web site can be found at http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/<http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/>. Its well worth a visit. > > > >==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== >Before forwarding any Virus Warnings or Chain Letters to anyone, check them out at: http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/ >Please Visit the Attala County Rootsweb site at <http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala> > > > >

Yes they do.... http://www.starherald.net/news<http://www.starherald.net/news> ----- Original Message ----- From: Tanimara<mailto:[email protected]> To: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> Sent: Friday, May 07, 2004 11:56 AM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records stored in the AttalaCourthouse Does The Star Herald have a website also? Jackie > > ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== The American Local History Network, Attala County web site can be found at http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/<http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/>. Its well worth a visit.

Does The Star Herald have a website also? Jackie > >

Everette, Been there done that Everette. Dealing with the local government on preserving records that is. Not an easy task and can be a delicate one in these small towns were the local politicians and heads of governmental departments got there a lot of times due to their egos. I have written the local paper and asked that they do some investigating. And dont worry, I referred them to you!...lol At least you can tell them what is going on to this point and may be able to give them some good ideas. Most of all you can relay our concerns. Not to be discouraging but, a reality check here. I managed to help preserve an 1890s platt map of our county that was in the vault at the courthouse and marked microfilmed by the state archives. It was never microfilmed. We did manage to get this oversized map copied and all land owners transcribed and placed online. A quality copy has to be done on one of those big blue print copiers due to it's size or the state archives has to make a trip and microfilm this one document to get an actual copy of the map saved. My copy is in two copies per page so is not usable in book form. If we ever get it copied professionally, I plan on having it printed in book form along with the transcription to benefit the local historical society. This one project has covered 3 years of work and I could not have accomplished it without the support and work of many people who are members of the Ripley Co MO GenWeb site. Also a note on criminal and court records. I have found them to be the best interpretor of live in the times. They give us a look at the real world within the time span they were recorded. I have learned more about my family in Ripley Co from these types of records than many other sources I have checked. And not because they were criminal elements either. Jackie Wood County coordinator, Ripley Co MO GenWeb Everette Carr wrote: >I have followed the discussion of the Attala County records with interest. >A number of intriguing and interesting proposals have been put forward as to >what could or should be done. The number of people that offered to step >forward and assist with funding is encouraging and very generous. > >It is not my intent to diminish the enthusiasm nor to dampen the "let's get >it done" spirit but, there are a few things that all involved in this >discussion must keep in mind. As O. D. McElroy pointed out, the records in >question are primarily criminal court records, arrest records and matters >that principally deal with the not so pleasant side of Attala County in the >early years. Now, that is not to say that some genealogical information >might not be gleaned from this material, nor do I wish to suggest that these >original records do not have value. They do. All historical records, >irrespective of the subject matter, have value and should be preserved. >But, as Mr. McElroy pointed out, the vast majority of the records, at least >those that survived the courthouse fires are maintained in an orderly >fashion and are reasonably well maintained. And as he pointed out, many of >the Attala County records have been microfilmed and are available through >the LDS Family Centers, the Attala County Library or on the Attala County >MSGenWeb web site. Could the county do more to protect original records? >There is no doubt that they could. And, the condition of the criminal court >records is certainly deplorable and inexcusable. So, a concerted effort on >the part of the citizenry is certainly in order. And funding to restore and >store records will be an issue, for it is most likely the lack of funding >that has created the problem in the first place. > >It is not likely that the library has room for the records in question. >Perhaps the historical society might be able to provide some assistance in >that regard. Certainly, the historical society has the expertise to >determine if grant funding might be available through various federal and >state grant programs. They are well experienced in this regard. > >But, before anyone goes marching into the courthouse with the idea of >organizing and removing the records stored there, one must acknowledge that >the county government is charged with the responsibility of maintaining and >housing the records that are generated in the normal day to day course of >business with the county courts. As well intentioned as a group of citizens >might be and as worthy as their cause might be, none the less, the records >are under the jurisdiction of the county government. No one, no matter how >well intentioned, can simply decide that they are going to take charge of >the records. And certainly, no one has the authority to remove the records >without the knowledge and consent of the county officials. > >So, it seems that the first order of business is to determine how the county >officials will react to any suggestion that they should relinquish control >of the records in question. And, if any of you has ever dealt with a >governmental agency, you will be prepared for a long drawn out process. > >The project is obviously going to require individuals in Attala County with >local connections and influential friends in high places would certainly be >a benefit. If the county agrees, then you can proceed to the next step >which is to reclaim the records, organize them and then search for a new >home for them where they will be maintained, preserved and accessible. > >No easy process. But certainly one worthy of attention. > >Everette Carr > > > > >==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== >Have you visited the American Local History Network, Attala County web site yet? You can find it at http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/ > > > >

James, I was unable to locate an e-mail for the Board of Supervisors. However, I did locate some information on the community newspaper for those interested in letters to the editor. The Star Herald 207 North Madison Street Kosciusko, MS 39090 E-mail: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> Editor is Mark Thornton e-mail: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> I know you have to put your name and address on letters to the editor or they won't publish them. Gigi ----- Original Message ----- From: JAMES WATKINS<mailto:[email protected]> To: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, May 06, 2004 8:41 PM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records stored in the AttalaCourthouse Does Attala County Government(Board of Supervisors, County Commissioners?) have an e-mail address where we could complain about the situation with the records storage? ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== Searching for your Attala County ancestors? Visit the Attala County Genealogy (MSGenWeb) web site at http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/<http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/>

Does Attala County Government(Board of Supervisors, County Commissioners?) have an e-mail address where we could complain about the situation with the records storage?

If your taking count. Count me in. I live too far away to be of any on site help but will help monitarily where I can. If there is any hope of breaking through my brick wall in Attala county I fear it lies in these old negelected records. Jackie Searching THOMAS/GUYNES/MANGRUM/SPROUSE/HALL in Attala Co. [email protected] wrote: >I wanted to second what Everette and Gigi have written. > >When I lived in NY, I served two terms in our local legislature and I can >attest to the fact that government officials at every level tend to be very >protective, even jealous, of those things that fall within their purview. So, of >course, Everette is right, the consent and advise of the local supervisors must >be sought before we have any reasonable expectation of "fixing" this problem. > Needless to say, most politicians want to be pictured on the side of >historic preservation--especially if it doesn't cost them anything--so there is >reason to believe that we can obtain their cooperation in making the needed changes. > >I feel that the issue Gigi alludes to is already a clear and present danger >and likely to become even more problematic in the near future. One can go on >eBay and find many old documents for sale. What do you suppose the first issue >of the Star-Herald or any newspaper following December 7, 1941, would be >worth? Every day that passes, by definition, means that the records in the >basement of the Chancery Clerk's building grow older. Being older translates into >greater value in the marketplace, so the problem can only become worse as the >temptation to pilfer these records necessarily becomes greater. > >No doubt the readers of this missive, motivated as genealogists always are by >the purest of goals and motives, will not succumb to the opportunity to make >a buck. (Incidentally, there is not the least sarcasm in this remark. It is >crafted of the purest logic and sincerely meant. Many of us feel wonderfully >repaid and enriched for the investment we have made in genealogy, but I know >of no one who was ever adequately compensated, much less enriched, in a >material way for their genealogical endeavors. ) > >However, recall that the basement of the Clerk's office is open to the >public--not just you and me. As long as I see banks putting bars on their windows >and otherwise separating their money from the public, I'm going to assume that >they have reason to believe that the absence of such deterrents might result >in a problem for them. Well, we are at the point that many of the old records >and documents in the Clerk's basement--which do have monetary value--are free >for the taking. I shant be surprised if some people take advantage of this >opportunity. > >I fear I have done a better job at raising problems and issues than I have >done in suggesting solutions. Perhaps, though, the solution to this problem is >just to identify the records (such as the oldest land records and court >dockets, old newspapers, etc.) which are particularly valuable and place them in the >hands of the library or the historical society or any group which has the >resources to provide some degree of oversight. Certainly not all the records in >the basement are valuable in a material sense, but others are and the time to >protect them is now. > >Edward Hutchison >Madison, MS > > >==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== >The American Local History Network, Attala County web site can be found at http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/. Its well worth a visit. > > > >

I have read all the sugguestions on how to preserve and protect the documents. I agree we need to ask first. It might be worh our while to think along the lines of fund raising to help the court house and or the library with storage cabnets, maybe even their own machine so the records can be copyed on to micrafilm or CD. I see all the time where Genealogy sociatys do fund raisers by selling books on their county. Maybe some of the oldest records can be put into book or CD form, not only to save them but for resale. This way the funds raised will be an on going sorce of preservation funds. When we ask about organizing the documents they may not have the money for cabnits etc. So it could go over better if we can offer to help with the expence. Just an idea. I am glad to hear so many people want something done. ----- Original Message ----- From: <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, May 06, 2004 11:19 AM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records stored in the Attala Courthouse > I wanted to second what Everette and Gigi have written. > > When I lived in NY, I served two terms in our local legislature and I can > attest to the fact that government officials at every level tend to be very > protective, even jealous, of those things that fall within their purview. So, of > course, Everette is right, the consent and advise of the local supervisors must > be sought before we have any reasonable expectation of "fixing" this problem. > Needless to say, most politicians want to be pictured on the side of > historic preservation--especially if it doesn't cost them anything--so there is > reason to believe that we can obtain their cooperation in making the needed changes. > > I feel that the issue Gigi alludes to is already a clear and present danger > and likely to become even more problematic in the near future. One can go on > eBay and find many old documents for sale. What do you suppose the first issue > of the Star-Herald or any newspaper following December 7, 1941, would be > worth? Every day that passes, by definition, means that the records in the > basement of the Chancery Clerk's building grow older. Being older translates into > greater value in the marketplace, so the problem can only become worse as the > temptation to pilfer these records necessarily becomes greater. > > No doubt the readers of this missive, motivated as genealogists always are by > the purest of goals and motives, will not succumb to the opportunity to make > a buck. (Incidentally, there is not the least sarcasm in this remark. It is > crafted of the purest logic and sincerely meant. Many of us feel wonderfully > repaid and enriched for the investment we have made in genealogy, but I know > of no one who was ever adequately compensated, much less enriched, in a > material way for their genealogical endeavors. ) > > However, recall that the basement of the Clerk's office is open to the > public--not just you and me. As long as I see banks putting bars on their windows > and otherwise separating their money from the public, I'm going to assume that > they have reason to believe that the absence of such deterrents might result > in a problem for them. Well, we are at the point that many of the old records > and documents in the Clerk's basement--which do have monetary value--are free > for the taking. I shant be surprised if some people take advantage of this > opportunity. > > I fear I have done a better job at raising problems and issues than I have > done in suggesting solutions. Perhaps, though, the solution to this problem is > just to identify the records (such as the oldest land records and court > dockets, old newspapers, etc.) which are particularly valuable and place them in the > hands of the library or the historical society or any group which has the > resources to provide some degree of oversight. Certainly not all the records in > the basement are valuable in a material sense, but others are and the time to > protect them is now. > > Edward Hutchison > Madison, MS > > > ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > The American Local History Network, Attala County web site can be found at http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/. Its well worth a visit. > >

I wanted to second what Everette and Gigi have written. When I lived in NY, I served two terms in our local legislature and I can attest to the fact that government officials at every level tend to be very protective, even jealous, of those things that fall within their purview. So, of course, Everette is right, the consent and advise of the local supervisors must be sought before we have any reasonable expectation of "fixing" this problem. Needless to say, most politicians want to be pictured on the side of historic preservation--especially if it doesn't cost them anything--so there is reason to believe that we can obtain their cooperation in making the needed changes. I feel that the issue Gigi alludes to is already a clear and present danger and likely to become even more problematic in the near future. One can go on eBay and find many old documents for sale. What do you suppose the first issue of the Star-Herald or any newspaper following December 7, 1941, would be worth? Every day that passes, by definition, means that the records in the basement of the Chancery Clerk's building grow older. Being older translates into greater value in the marketplace, so the problem can only become worse as the temptation to pilfer these records necessarily becomes greater. No doubt the readers of this missive, motivated as genealogists always are by the purest of goals and motives, will not succumb to the opportunity to make a buck. (Incidentally, there is not the least sarcasm in this remark. It is crafted of the purest logic and sincerely meant. Many of us feel wonderfully repaid and enriched for the investment we have made in genealogy, but I know of no one who was ever adequately compensated, much less enriched, in a material way for their genealogical endeavors. ) However, recall that the basement of the Clerk's office is open to the public--not just you and me. As long as I see banks putting bars on their windows and otherwise separating their money from the public, I'm going to assume that they have reason to believe that the absence of such deterrents might result in a problem for them. Well, we are at the point that many of the old records and documents in the Clerk's basement--which do have monetary value--are free for the taking. I shant be surprised if some people take advantage of this opportunity. I fear I have done a better job at raising problems and issues than I have done in suggesting solutions. Perhaps, though, the solution to this problem is just to identify the records (such as the oldest land records and court dockets, old newspapers, etc.) which are particularly valuable and place them in the hands of the library or the historical society or any group which has the resources to provide some degree of oversight. Certainly not all the records in the basement are valuable in a material sense, but others are and the time to protect them is now. Edward Hutchison Madison, MS

Hi, There appears to be some misconception of the LDS and the records they have. They have been for years microfilming records and are housed in Salt Lake City. The many centers across the US have limited space and cannot house all these records so that is why there is a cost to order copys of what they do not have to view. The LDS center does not charge for anything they have in the library except copying, and you can spend countless hours viewing anything they have. I have found priceless marriage records, etc. there. I for one, appreciate all they have done to preserve the records. And they may have, and most likely have filmed the old records that are being discussed. They do however need to be preserved as, there is a desire for all of us to be able to view the original records when available. I have personally paid for 3 reels of land records from Grainger Co. TN. to be kept in the local library in Mesa, AZ. They copy and keep them or otherwise return them to Salt Lake. Ruby Sharp ----- Original Message ----- From: Holly Whitney To: [email protected] Sent: Wednesday, May 05, 2004 3:13 PM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records Rapidly being lost we need to find away to keep the records local. So that anyone one who wants to see them can. Why should the LDS have control over these records. There is a genealogist in Winston County Ms who could be of great help with this. The genealogy group there is very active. I will try to find his email and forward some of this to him. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Tanimara" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2004 4:07 PM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records Rapidly being lost > I have set and watched these messages unfold with interest. I think we > are all appalled at the condition of the sacared records of our > ancestors. Especially when so few are available already. The question > is, what to do. I feel there is enough support here to make a difference. > > The goal is to get these records preserved and quickly, damn the cost. > > A list of ideas: > > LDS > State Archives > Library - Grants are available. > Local Historical/Genealogy Society > Volunteers > Money > Organization > Donations > > Someone needs to take charge, make assignments, and kick some booty. > > Let me know what you think, > Thanks Everret for setting up the website and mailing list. > Good start > > Jackie Wood > Willow Springs MO > > Surnames: Thomas, Harrington, Mangrum, Guynes/Goines/Goin/Going/Goynes, > Hall, Sprouse, > Locations: VA/NC/SC/AL/GA/MS/LA/AR/MO/KS/TN/TX > > > deeno wrote: > > >Everett, > > > >Referencing the Indian records at Chancery Court, could you explain what > >type records? My family was in Attala (1840-1885) and supposedly of Native > >American heritage. The marriage records were all lost in the 1896 fire, all > >that is left(that I could find) on them is land records at the chancery > >court. I was not aware of any Indian records during my visits or I would > >have certainly checked those. > > > > > >Thank you, > >Rayedene > >----- Original Message ----- > >From: "Everette Carr" <[email protected]> > >To: <[email protected]> > >Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2004 1:44 PM > >Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala Records Rapidly Being Lost > > > > > > > > > >>Hi All: > >> > >>The subject of the condition of some of the Attala County records kept in > >>the Courthouse has stirred considerable interest among the Attala County > >>researchers and rightfully so. Because this is such an important issue, I > >>have created a special web page where some information about the location > >> > >> > >of > > > > > >>the Attala County records is shown and after that brief description, > >> > >> > >Edward > > > > > >>Hutchinson's message is reproduced and all of the messages on this subject > >>that followed are also shown in chronological order. > >> > >>Since it is still early in the day and many researchers have not yet > >> > >> > >checked > > > > > >>in, it is presumed that there will be many more responses to Mr. > >>Hutchinson's original message. All of the additional messages that are > >>received will also be posted as soon as convenient to this special page on > >>the Attala web site. > >> > >>To view the messages received thus far (about 1:40 p.m. CDT) go to the > >> > >> > >main > > > > > >>page and click on the link immediately below the photograph of the Attala > >>County Courthouse. (link below) > >> > >>http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/index.html > >> > >>Although the records maintained by the courthouse are not the most > >> > >> > >critical > > > > > >>to most genealogy researchers, they are none-the-less important to the > >>history of the county and must be preserved at all cost. > >> > >>Everette Carr > >>List Administrator > >> > >> > >> > >>==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > >>Before forwarding any Virus Warnings or Chain Letters to anyone, check > >> > >> > >them out at: http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/ Also, please Visit the Attala > >County Rootsweb site at http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/ > > > > > >> > >> > > > > > >==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > >Were you aware that a portion of the Diary of Judge Jason Niles is available online at the Attala County American Local History Network site? Just click on the link http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/jasonniles.htm/ > > > > > > > > > > > ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > Before forwarding any Virus Warnings or Chain Letters to anyone, check them out at: http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/ Also, please Visit the Attala County Rootsweb site at http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/ > > ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== Before forwarding any Virus Warnings or Chain Letters to anyone, check them out at: http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/ Also, please Visit the Attala County Rootsweb site at http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/

Again Everette is right. The records belong to the county. It was suggested to me that letters to the editor might prompt the Board of Supervisors to respond to the concern for the state of the papers in the attic of the courthouse. I am acquainted with only one of the supervisors, Eddie Womble, who I believe to be the head of the board although I am not sure. I intend to speak with him about it. I feel like we need to at least get the matter before the board. Perhaps then if it is a matter of funding or something else a resolution can be found. The records in the Chancery Clerks' office are well maintained. It was a pleasure to search there for me. However, the older records in the basement are unguarded as I said earlier. They should not be walking off. Even allowing for some deterioration there are way to many records just simply not there. When I spoke to Ann at the library she said she had very limited room to store anything but would love to see the Confederate Pension records turned over to the library for safe keeping. Again I volunteer to help however I can when a resolution is reached. Perhaps cleaning up the area and changing the storage containers might be allowed if nothing else. Someone here with the clout to get something done needs to get involved. Gigi ----- Original Message ----- From: Everette Carr<mailto:[email protected]> To: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, May 05, 2004 11:01 PM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records stored in the Attala Courthouse I have followed the discussion of the Attala County records with interest. A number of intriguing and interesting proposals have been put forward as to what could or should be done. The number of people that offered to step forward and assist with funding is encouraging and very generous. It is not my intent to diminish the enthusiasm nor to dampen the "let's get it done" spirit but, there are a few things that all involved in this discussion must keep in mind. As O. D. McElroy pointed out, the records in question are primarily criminal court records, arrest records and matters that principally deal with the not so pleasant side of Attala County in the early years. Now, that is not to say that some genealogical information might not be gleaned from this material, nor do I wish to suggest that these original records do not have value. They do. All historical records, irrespective of the subject matter, have value and should be preserved. But, as Mr. McElroy pointed out, the vast majority of the records, at least those that survived the courthouse fires are maintained in an orderly fashion and are reasonably well maintained. And as he pointed out, many of the Attala County records have been microfilmed and are available through the LDS Family Centers, the Attala County Library or on the Attala County MSGenWeb web site. Could the county do more to protect original records? There is no doubt that they could. And, the condition of the criminal court records is certainly deplorable and inexcusable. So, a concerted effort on the part of the citizenry is certainly in order. And funding to restore and store records will be an issue, for it is most likely the lack of funding that has created the problem in the first place. It is not likely that the library has room for the records in question. Perhaps the historical society might be able to provide some assistance in that regard. Certainly, the historical society has the expertise to determine if grant funding might be available through various federal and state grant programs. They are well experienced in this regard. But, before anyone goes marching into the courthouse with the idea of organizing and removing the records stored there, one must acknowledge that the county government is charged with the responsibility of maintaining and housing the records that are generated in the normal day to day course of business with the county courts. As well intentioned as a group of citizens might be and as worthy as their cause might be, none the less, the records are under the jurisdiction of the county government. No one, no matter how well intentioned, can simply decide that they are going to take charge of the records. And certainly, no one has the authority to remove the records without the knowledge and consent of the county officials. So, it seems that the first order of business is to determine how the county officials will react to any suggestion that they should relinquish control of the records in question. And, if any of you has ever dealt with a governmental agency, you will be prepared for a long drawn out process. The project is obviously going to require individuals in Attala County with local connections and influential friends in high places would certainly be a benefit. If the county agrees, then you can proceed to the next step which is to reclaim the records, organize them and then search for a new home for them where they will be maintained, preserved and accessible. No easy process. But certainly one worthy of attention. Everette Carr ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== Have you visited the American Local History Network, Attala County web site yet? You can find it at http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/<http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/>

I have followed the discussion of the Attala County records with interest. A number of intriguing and interesting proposals have been put forward as to what could or should be done. The number of people that offered to step forward and assist with funding is encouraging and very generous. It is not my intent to diminish the enthusiasm nor to dampen the "let's get it done" spirit but, there are a few things that all involved in this discussion must keep in mind. As O. D. McElroy pointed out, the records in question are primarily criminal court records, arrest records and matters that principally deal with the not so pleasant side of Attala County in the early years. Now, that is not to say that some genealogical information might not be gleaned from this material, nor do I wish to suggest that these original records do not have value. They do. All historical records, irrespective of the subject matter, have value and should be preserved. But, as Mr. McElroy pointed out, the vast majority of the records, at least those that survived the courthouse fires are maintained in an orderly fashion and are reasonably well maintained. And as he pointed out, many of the Attala County records have been microfilmed and are available through the LDS Family Centers, the Attala County Library or on the Attala County MSGenWeb web site. Could the county do more to protect original records? There is no doubt that they could. And, the condition of the criminal court records is certainly deplorable and inexcusable. So, a concerted effort on the part of the citizenry is certainly in order. And funding to restore and store records will be an issue, for it is most likely the lack of funding that has created the problem in the first place. It is not likely that the library has room for the records in question. Perhaps the historical society might be able to provide some assistance in that regard. Certainly, the historical society has the expertise to determine if grant funding might be available through various federal and state grant programs. They are well experienced in this regard. But, before anyone goes marching into the courthouse with the idea of organizing and removing the records stored there, one must acknowledge that the county government is charged with the responsibility of maintaining and housing the records that are generated in the normal day to day course of business with the county courts. As well intentioned as a group of citizens might be and as worthy as their cause might be, none the less, the records are under the jurisdiction of the county government. No one, no matter how well intentioned, can simply decide that they are going to take charge of the records. And certainly, no one has the authority to remove the records without the knowledge and consent of the county officials. So, it seems that the first order of business is to determine how the county officials will react to any suggestion that they should relinquish control of the records in question. And, if any of you has ever dealt with a governmental agency, you will be prepared for a long drawn out process. The project is obviously going to require individuals in Attala County with local connections and influential friends in high places would certainly be a benefit. If the county agrees, then you can proceed to the next step which is to reclaim the records, organize them and then search for a new home for them where they will be maintained, preserved and accessible. No easy process. But certainly one worthy of attention. Everette Carr

If you go to www.familysearch.org and do a search in the Family History Catalog, you will see that many of the Attala County documents have been microfilmed. But I believe this thread was begun by someone talking about documents that were in about 1900. Only the earliest to about 1870 have been filmed. http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Library/fhlcatalog/supermainframeset.asp?displ ay=localitydetails&subject=192708&subject_disp=Mississippi%2C+Attala&columns=* ,0,0

Thanks, Julia, for the good info. Martha -----Original Message----- From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, May 05, 2004 9:42 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Old record preservation In a message dated 5/5/2004 9:32:14 PM Central Daylight Time, [email protected] writes: > A lady who does research in Alabama records said that she was reminded by a librarian at the Family History Center that the records she ordered could not be copied (I suppose except by hand) because LDS held the copyright. Because of this, the LDS filmed and copyrighted records in the Alabama Archives could not be copied in any media. I assume she knows what she is talking about. < She does NOT know what she is talking about. The copyright laws only apply to Books that they have on microfilm. They allow copies of them, also, but state that the "Entire" book can't be copied or any part for sale or distribution. All the court documents can be copied and, after being filmed, the original documents are left where they were found. Microfilming doesn't take them away from the residents of the original location, it makes the films available to "EVERYONE" who lives near a LDS family history library. Reading and copying from the microfilm is so much easier than reading from the old large volumes and the filming makes it unnecessary for the old documents to be handled over and over again, which will eventually destroy them. Anyone who hasn't been to a LDS Family History Center, hasn't even begun to do genealogy research. My opinion. Julia French Wood ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== Have you visited the Attala Historical Society web site? The URL is http://www.rootsweb.com/~msahs/ Now would be a good time to support the Attala Historical Society!

In a message dated 5/5/2004 9:32:14 PM Central Daylight Time, [email protected] writes: > A lady who does research in Alabama records said that she was reminded by a librarian at the Family History Center that the records she ordered could not be copied (I suppose except by hand) because LDS held the copyright. Because of this, the LDS filmed and copyrighted records in the Alabama Archives could not be copied in any media. I assume she knows what she is talking about. < She does NOT know what she is talking about. The copyright laws only apply to Books that they have on microfilm. They allow copies of them, also, but state that the "Entire" book can't be copied or any part for sale or distribution. All the court documents can be copied and, after being filmed, the original documents are left where they were found. Microfilming doesn't take them away from the residents of the original location, it makes the films available to "EVERYONE" who lives near a LDS family history library. Reading and copying from the microfilm is so much easier than reading from the old large volumes and the filming makes it unnecessary for the old documents to be handled over and over again, which will eventually destroy them. Anyone who hasn't been to a LDS Family History Center, hasn't even begun to do genealogy research. My opinion. Julia French Wood

Thought I would throw in an offer to help sort out the records. I live just outside Kosciusko and will be glad to volunteer to help if someone wants to organize a group to go in the attic and straighten out what we can. Gigi

I am truly happy that so many people are concerned and willing to help in various ways to preserve our Attala County records. This question has arisen on another LIST I am on, and some discussion has concerned LDS microfilming the records. It seems my concern that they would copyright the materials is correct. A lady who does research in Alabama records said that she was reminded by a librarian at the Family History Center that the records she ordered could not be copied (I suppose except by hand) because LDS held the copyright. Because of this, the LDS filmed and copyrighted records in the Alabama Archives could not be copied in any media. I assume she knows what she is talking about. Martha Boggs Abilene, TX

Hi All, I was speaking with someone with the LDS today and asked them about what was involved getting records on film. What I was told is that someone in authority must authorize the material being filmed and request it. They would be placed on the list and when their turn came up, the LDS would come record the information (at no Cost), leave a copy of the microfilm at the Courthouse, place a copy in their valt and have copies that would be avalible to anyone around the world to reserch. You can go to http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Library/fhlcatalog search for Attala Mississippi to find a list of the records that they already have. The following information is the record of one of the titles that they have: Title Attala County, Mississippi cemeteries Stmnt.Resp.[Marymaganos McCool Fenwick] Authors Fenwick, Marymaganos McCool (Added Author) Notes Includes some cemeteries from neighboring counties and one cemetery from Fayette Co., Alabama. Copyright pending. Subjects Mississippi, Attala - Cemeteries Mississippi, Carroll - Cemeteries Mississippi, Choctaw - Cemeteries Mississippi, Leake - Cemeteries Mississippi, Montgomery - Cemeteries Mississippi, Winston - Cemeteries Alabama, Fayette - Cemeteries Copies Call Number - Location 976.2644 V3a - FHL US/CAN Book Format Books/Monographs (With Fiche) Language English Publication [S.l. : s.n., c1988?] Physical 403 p. : 1 folded map. Subject Class 976.2644 V3 Film Notes Note - Location [Film] Also on microfiche. Salt Lake City : Filmed by the Genealogical Society of Utah, 1992. 5 microfiches. - FHL US/CAN Fiche [ 6100956 ] � 2002 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. You don't have to be a member of their church to use the Family History Centers. Just thought that I'd let ya'll know. Tim __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Win a $20,000 Career Makeover at Yahoo! HotJobs http://hotjobs.sweepstakes.yahoo.com/careermakeover

Everette, Thank you for your reply. I would also be interested in assisting with funds for the preservation of the endangered records. Rayedene ----- Original Message ----- From: "Everette Carr" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2004 5:54 PM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Indian Records at Chancery Court > Raydene, > > I cannot speak directly as to what type of Indian records might still exist > in the Chancery Court. I have not personally viewed any Indian records. > The reference to what the Chancery Court handles vs. what records would be > in the courthouse was taken from some publication or another. > > The only records I have researched on a visit to the Chancery Court was the > wills, there wasn't time for land records. > > I wish I could be of more help to you. Perhaps, Ann Breedlove Fulghan the > genealogy clerk at the Attala County Library could give you some indication > as to what might be available with respect to Indian records in the Chancery > Court. The E-mail address for the library is on the Attala web site. > > Everette > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "deeno" <[email protected]> > To: <[email protected]> > Sent: Wednesday, May 05, 2004 3:06 PM > Subject: [MSATTALA] Indian Records at Chancery Court > > > Everett, > > Referencing the Indian records at Chancery Court, could you explain what > type records? My family was in Attala (1840-1885) and supposedly of Native > American heritage. The marriage records were all lost in the 1896 fire, all > that is left(that I could find) on them is land records at the chancery > court. I was not aware of any Indian records during my visits or I would > have certainly checked those. > > > Thank you, > Rayedene > > > > ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > To unsubscribe: send an email to [email protected]@rootsweb.com with the word unsubscribe in the body of the message. For 'Digest Mode' send the unsubscribe message to [email protected] > >

we need to find away to keep the records local. So that anyone one who wants to see them can. Why should the LDS have control over these records. There is a genealogist in Winston County Ms who could be of great help with this. The genealogy group there is very active. I will try to find his email and forward some of this to him. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Tanimara" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2004 4:07 PM Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala County Records Rapidly being lost > I have set and watched these messages unfold with interest. I think we > are all appalled at the condition of the sacared records of our > ancestors. Especially when so few are available already. The question > is, what to do. I feel there is enough support here to make a difference. > > The goal is to get these records preserved and quickly, damn the cost. > > A list of ideas: > > LDS > State Archives > Library - Grants are available. > Local Historical/Genealogy Society > Volunteers > Money > Organization > Donations > > Someone needs to take charge, make assignments, and kick some booty. > > Let me know what you think, > Thanks Everret for setting up the website and mailing list. > Good start > > Jackie Wood > Willow Springs MO > > Surnames: Thomas, Harrington, Mangrum, Guynes/Goines/Goin/Going/Goynes, > Hall, Sprouse, > Locations: VA/NC/SC/AL/GA/MS/LA/AR/MO/KS/TN/TX > > > deeno wrote: > > >Everett, > > > >Referencing the Indian records at Chancery Court, could you explain what > >type records? My family was in Attala (1840-1885) and supposedly of Native > >American heritage. The marriage records were all lost in the 1896 fire, all > >that is left(that I could find) on them is land records at the chancery > >court. I was not aware of any Indian records during my visits or I would > >have certainly checked those. > > > > > >Thank you, > >Rayedene > >----- Original Message ----- > >From: "Everette Carr" <[email protected]> > >To: <[email protected]> > >Sent: Tuesday, May 04, 2004 1:44 PM > >Subject: Re: [MSATTALA] Attala Records Rapidly Being Lost > > > > > > > > > >>Hi All: > >> > >>The subject of the condition of some of the Attala County records kept in > >>the Courthouse has stirred considerable interest among the Attala County > >>researchers and rightfully so. Because this is such an important issue, I > >>have created a special web page where some information about the location > >> > >> > >of > > > > > >>the Attala County records is shown and after that brief description, > >> > >> > >Edward > > > > > >>Hutchinson's message is reproduced and all of the messages on this subject > >>that followed are also shown in chronological order. > >> > >>Since it is still early in the day and many researchers have not yet > >> > >> > >checked > > > > > >>in, it is presumed that there will be many more responses to Mr. > >>Hutchinson's original message. All of the additional messages that are > >>received will also be posted as soon as convenient to this special page on > >>the Attala web site. > >> > >>To view the messages received thus far (about 1:40 p.m. CDT) go to the > >> > >> > >main > > > > > >>page and click on the link immediately below the photograph of the Attala > >>County Courthouse. (link below) > >> > >>http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/index.html > >> > >>Although the records maintained by the courthouse are not the most > >> > >> > >critical > > > > > >>to most genealogy researchers, they are none-the-less important to the > >>history of the county and must be preserved at all cost. > >> > >>Everette Carr > >>List Administrator > >> > >> > >> > >>==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > >>Before forwarding any Virus Warnings or Chain Letters to anyone, check > >> > >> > >them out at: http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/ Also, please Visit the Attala > >County Rootsweb site at http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/ > > > > > >> > >> > > > > > >==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > >Were you aware that a portion of the Diary of Judge Jason Niles is available online at the Attala County American Local History Network site? Just click on the link http://www.usgennet.org/usa/ms/county/attala/jasonniles.htm/ > > > > > > > > > > > ==== MSATTALA Mailing List ==== > Before forwarding any Virus Warnings or Chain Letters to anyone, check them out at: http://hoaxbusters.ciac.org/ Also, please Visit the Attala County Rootsweb site at http://www.rootsweb.com/~msattala/ > >