How do you know all this stuff? Two recent posts asked this question about different subjects. (1) Some have been doing genealogy for many years. They have been taking classes, reading genealogy publications, and even studying for certification exams. Thus, they have a lot of information in their heads, which they share, but don't necessarily know where they learned it. (2) Some are more interested in history and have pursued this avenue of research in addition to genealogy. (3) Some have chosen to research everything they could about the lives and times of their ancestors, including reading lots of extra biographical and historical accounts. (4) Some are fascinated by geography and have learned about the role it has played in their ancestors' lives. They often have specialized in one particular region or particular migration routes. (5) Some are equally fascinated by immigration/emigtation patterns and have read widely about them. (6) Some have studied religious practices and the history of religious groups in an area. My point is - On this list are people with a variety of information about lots of topics which they have studied for many years. It would be nice if we all made a point of stating our references when we offer information, but this is often not possible. For example, when I make a statement about the Miramichi or Nashwaak River regions, I may not know in which of a dozen books I learned it over several years. All information offered on any list should be considered a 'clue' that leads us back to original source material. May I suggest that classes, conferences, periodicals, books, pamphlets, published genealogies, etc., are a great way to 'fill in the blanks' and help keep an interest in genealogy alive even when faced by brick walls? Regards, Sharyn Hay