The above surnames were often interchanged in the late 1700's and early 1800's in the Carolinas. Because of this, finding the correct info on my ancestors is a real "brick wall". My ancestors, William and Margaret (?) Irby/Yearby, bought land in Anson Co. NC in 1760 on the Pee Dee river, on or near Youngs Island, and sold the same land in 1767to John Stevens. Althrough the land endenture text, he was referred to as William Irby, however, it was signed William Yearby and Margaret Yearby. I have been unable to find his parents by the surname Yearby/Yerby. I am wondering if he was really from an Irby heritage and his surname later changed to Yearby/Yerby. The list of children that I have for Wm. (b. about 1730) and Margaret were: John (b. 1768) who married Rhoda Cole (1775), d/o John Cole. Henry (No other info.) William, Jr. who married Mary "Polly" Laney, d/o George Laney . Everette (b. 1762) who married Sarah McMillian, d/o James McMillian. James who married (?). (James lived in Mecklenburg Co., NC in 1800 (census). James had a son, Stephen. Martha who married Ardon Ross.(No other info) Elizabeth (b. 1775) who married William Shepherd, Jr. Margaret (No other info) Burrell/Burwell (b. 1780) married Ann. R. Collins. (Burrell being s/o Wm. and Margaret is questionable.) ANY info on William and Margaret Irby/Yearby/Yerby or any of their children will be appreciated. I would be very grateful if any descendants of these families would contact me. Hildred Carlson ra-n-hacar@juno.com