MH, I don't know about a connection between the STANDLEY/SPANN families but do have some info on the STANDLEY families of Carroll Co. You are correct that James Jr. is the son of James the elder. James Standley Sr born Jun 22, 1792 in TN and died 1860 in Blackhawk, Carroll Co. He was the son of Abraham Standley born about 1750 in either NC or TN and wife's name is still unknown. James' known siblings were John David (my ancestor), Mary Susannah, and Benjamin. James Sr. first married Lucy Brashear in in 1816 Carroll Co, she was born 1810 and died before 1830. Their children were James Jr., Eliza and Amelia. James Sr secondly married Eve Cochenaur abt 1829. She died before 1850. Their children were: Ephriam, Jane, Abraham, Benjamin, Frank, George Washington aka 'Wash' , Amanda and Cornila. James Jr. born 1819 in Blackhawk and married Margaret Todlock on Jun 11, 1840 in Carroll Co. "HISTORY OF CARROLL COUNTY" by William Franklin Hamilton: page 51-52: "...[James Sr] his family lived a few miles west of Blackhawk. He was a half-breed Indian and when the tribe removed to Indian Territory he remained at his old home and there reared and educated his family. His oldest son, James Jr., married and settled near his father's home and there spent the remaining years of his life. Of the children of James Standley there were Mrs. Clark, wife of Nathanial Clark; Mrs. Freeman Smith, James Jr., Frank and Wash....After the death of James Standley and his oldest son, James [Jr.], the remaining family members removed to the Indian Territory. ...Captain Wash Standley served very creditably during the war as Captain of the 'Black Hawk Rifles' in the 22nd Miss. Regiment, Lovings Division...in the west, Frank was a Lieutenant in the same company. Captain James S. Standley, eldest son of James Jr., enlisted in the 'Carroll Rifles' and was chosen first Lieutenant then became Captain....he was severaly wounded in the Battle of Seven Pines onthe 31st of May, 1862....was never really able for duty and was finally retired." Sarah Standley (blind) on the census is the dtr of John David Standley (1794-1844). I have more info if you'd like to contact me at <april0496@aol.com> Teresa