This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Turpin Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/1VB.2ACE/11400 Message Board Post: A crack in the brick wall! I have just learned that my 2nd gt gfather, William Peter Turpin, a prosperous farmer in Venice was arrested for murder when he had a run-in with a timber thief whom he shot and killed. He was acquited at trial in Sandusky. This probably happened 1874-1880. In 1874 a picture of his farm was shown in the 1874 Atlas of Erie County. By the 1880 Census he is living with his daughter and son-on-law, Alice and Benjamin Bailey. Did he lose the farm during all the legal battles? Does anyone have any info on William Peter and this trial? Where can I find information when I don't really have a real date nor know the name of the man who was killed? Would I contact the Erie County Courthouse? The newspaper? I'm kind of at a standstill here. I'd sure appreciate any help or suggestions. Thanks, Sharon in AZ