Mike, I would be interested in your source. Not yet have I found anyone who guarantees ANY length for CD's. Possibly because storage and handling can affect longevity? Since the disks are so new, I have never heard anyone guarantee them. I use to deal with mastering software and no on in 1995-1996 when I surveyed the industry would guarantee it. Helen > > From: "Michael Donnally" <[email protected]> > Date: 2004/04/12 Mon PM 10:10:32 EDT > To: [email protected] > Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Contacts for microfilming/CD's > > FYI: > > If I remember correctly -- I think the shelf live of todays CD's is150 years > or less. Excesses of light and heat factors would minimize those years as > well as the overall use of it. > > > > Mike Donnally > > > >

for everyone that I was doing look ups for PLEASE be patient I just came home from the hospital with my daughter who had to spend 2 nights for pneumoina and may end up back in there again. I will answer them all just as quick as I possibly can and I am sorry for the delay. Schannon

Karen : you will be hearing from a representative of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints ..just tell them what you need . They are very nice people...you will see.. Douglas ----- Original Message ----- From: <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, April 12, 2004 8:01 PM Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Contacts for microfilming/CD's > Karen, > > I think that MICROFILM in addition to CD should be explored. While CD has the ease of being pulled up on a computer and even sold commercially, it's longevity of the medium (ie. tape) has not been proven and data could be lost after 25 years or so. Microfilm is what has been used by OHS with Microfilm readers. They purchase readers from the coins that folks feed into them. The State Library of OHIO also uses microfilm. So maybe BOTH could be processed from the film. > > Besides contacting the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to see what the terms/conditions are, I think OHS should be contacted to see what costs and terms they have for their supplier to microfilm. > > Also check with Gallia Co regards any grant writing they did and whether it was successful as well as talking to your State Representative to see if any special appropriations can be secured. I'll try to find the business card from the lady at Gallia Co for you.) Talk to the Administrator of OHS in Columbus for information. > > Here is a starting point on the "Morman Church" in Utah. They prefer the term > The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. > > From an article at http://www.lds.org/newsroom/showpackage/0,15367,3899-1--35-2-165,00.html > Is the following: > Currently, there are 275 camera crews in 44 countries filming new records, increasing genealogy resources by an average of 60,000 new rolls of microfilm each year. These films are carefully stored at the Granite Mountain Records Vault, deep in a mountainside overlooking the Salt Lake Valley. > This collection of more than 2.3 million rolls of microfilm is available to the public through the Church's Family History Library in Salt Lake City, the largest of its kind in the world, and through its more than 3,575 branches, called family history centers, in 65 countries. > Many records microfilmed by the Church throughout the world become part of unique "extraction" projects. > Genealogy preservation: > > http://www.lds.org/newsroom/showpackage/0,15367,3899-1--35-3-165,00.html > > Copies of records are kept in granite vaults in the mountains: > http://www.lds.org/newsroom/photos/0,15465,3920-1----678-1664,00.html > > While the term "Mormon Church" has long been publicly applied to the Church as a nickname, it is not an authorized title, and the Church discourages its use. > When writing about the Church, please follow these guidelines: > · In the first reference, the full name of the Church is preferred: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. > · Please avoid the use of "Mormon Church," "LDS Church" or "the Church of the Latter-day Saints." > · When a shortened reference is needed, the terms "the Church" or "the Church of Jesus Christ" are encouraged. > The general public and members of the Church should direct their inquiries to: > The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints50 East North Temple StreetSalt Lake City, Utah 84150USAPhone: (801) 240-1000 > > Maybe they can direct you to the proper person > Public Affairs Office > Office: (801) 240-1111 > Fax: (801) 240-5449 > Email: [email protected] > > http://www.lds.org/newsroom/showrelease/0,15503,3881-1-2298-715,00.html > > > http://www.lds.org/newsroom/displaytopic/0,15343,3898-1--35,00.html > > http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Share/Preserve/frameset_preserve.asp > > If there is anything else I can do, I will be happy to help. I will stop by the Wellston Library when I come through town. I have some obits to donate to the library. I hope your husband is doing okay since his surgery. > > Helen > > > > > > > > > From: "Karen Davis" <[email protected]> > > Date: 2004/04/12 Mon PM 04:50:20 EDT > > To: [email protected] > > Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] latest on the courthouse > > > > I just right this moment talked to Bob and he told me he was willing to help > > the RLDS church in any way to come in and film records. > > > > Is there anyone who can tell me who to contact with RLDS to get the project > > rolling or does anyone have any connections....while the fire is still > > hot.... > > > > Thanks! > > Karen > > > > > > > > > >

FYI: If I remember correctly -- I think the shelf live of todays CD's is150 years or less. Excesses of light and heat factors would minimize those years as well as the overall use of it. Mike Donnally

Thanks Karen. Atleast it good they are still thinking about it. I know they enough to do without throwing that into their mix... I appreciate the info and now they know we are interested in their progress... Susi

Lisa, I don't know but 1904 is NOT in Will Book A. It would be much later. Helen > > From: [email protected] > Date: 2004/04/12 Mon PM 07:11:44 EDT > To: [email protected] > Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] Years included in Will Books > > Does anyone know the year span for Will Book A? Also, which book would a will > from 1904-06 be in? > > Thank you. > > Lisa > >

Karen, I think that MICROFILM in addition to CD should be explored. While CD has the ease of being pulled up on a computer and even sold commercially, it's longevity of the medium (ie. tape) has not been proven and data could be lost after 25 years or so. Microfilm is what has been used by OHS with Microfilm readers. They purchase readers from the coins that folks feed into them. The State Library of OHIO also uses microfilm. So maybe BOTH could be processed from the film. Besides contacting the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to see what the terms/conditions are, I think OHS should be contacted to see what costs and terms they have for their supplier to microfilm. Also check with Gallia Co regards any grant writing they did and whether it was successful as well as talking to your State Representative to see if any special appropriations can be secured. I'll try to find the business card from the lady at Gallia Co for you.) Talk to the Administrator of OHS in Columbus for information. Here is a starting point on the "Morman Church" in Utah. They prefer the term The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. From an article at http://www.lds.org/newsroom/showpackage/0,15367,3899-1--35-2-165,00.html Is the following: Currently, there are 275 camera crews in 44 countries filming new records, increasing genealogy resources by an average of 60,000 new rolls of microfilm each year. These films are carefully stored at the Granite Mountain Records Vault, deep in a mountainside overlooking the Salt Lake Valley. This collection of more than 2.3 million rolls of microfilm is available to the public through the Church’s Family History Library in Salt Lake City, the largest of its kind in the world, and through its more than 3,575 branches, called family history centers, in 65 countries. Many records microfilmed by the Church throughout the world become part of unique “extraction” projects. Genealogy preservation: http://www.lds.org/newsroom/showpackage/0,15367,3899-1--35-3-165,00.html Copies of records are kept in granite vaults in the mountains: http://www.lds.org/newsroom/photos/0,15465,3920-1----678-1664,00.html While the term "Mormon Church" has long been publicly applied to the Church as a nickname, it is not an authorized title, and the Church discourages its use. When writing about the Church, please follow these guidelines: · In the first reference, the full name of the Church is preferred: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. · Please avoid the use of “Mormon Church,” “LDS Church” or “the Church of the Latter-day Saints.” · When a shortened reference is needed, the terms “the Church” or “the Church of Jesus Christ” are encouraged. The general public and members of the Church should direct their inquiries to: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints50 East North Temple StreetSalt Lake City, Utah 84150USAPhone: (801) 240-1000 Maybe they can direct you to the proper person Public Affairs Office Office: (801) 240-1111 Fax: (801) 240-5449 Email: [email protected] http://www.lds.org/newsroom/showrelease/0,15503,3881-1-2298-715,00.html http://www.lds.org/newsroom/displaytopic/0,15343,3898-1--35,00.html http://www.familysearch.org/Eng/Share/Preserve/frameset_preserve.asp If there is anything else I can do, I will be happy to help. I will stop by the Wellston Library when I come through town. I have some obits to donate to the library. I hope your husband is doing okay since his surgery. Helen > > From: "Karen Davis" <[email protected]> > Date: 2004/04/12 Mon PM 04:50:20 EDT > To: [email protected] > Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] latest on the courthouse > > I just right this moment talked to Bob and he told me he was willing to help > the RLDS church in any way to come in and film records. > > Is there anyone who can tell me who to contact with RLDS to get the project > rolling or does anyone have any connections....while the fire is still > hot.... > > Thanks! > Karen > > > >

Does anyone know the year span for Will Book A? Also, which book would a will from 1904-06 be in? Thank you. Lisa

Ruth, Congratulations on your new position. Jackson Co is a wonderful area and very nice people. We visited last year and got aquainted with the Connie Thorne and Tony Thorne family, which are relatives we never knew existed. It felt like a homecoming since my Thorn family has been in that county since abt 1817. Also the Anderson family on my mothers side were from Jackson Co abt the same time period. I hope lots can be done to preserve the records that are spoken of in the attic. What I have found is very few records seem to be in existance inside the courthouse around that time. Or I wasn't successful in finding them. The staff has been very helpful though. The county here has made a very large Reords Dept and has given free reign to the Genealogy Society. They have gone in an indexed and stored records on shelves that are of easy access . They can find them in an index and walk right back and pull it from the shelf. I am not totally aware of how they have done this but could probably get more info if you are interested. . Again congratulations and good luck in your endeavors. E Thorn ----- Original Message ----- From: "Ruth Hayth" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, April 12, 2004 9:21 AM Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > Mr. Thorn, > I have just read your letter concerning the problems of obtaining > information in Jackson County, OH, in trying to find a person't "roots". > Was recently elected as the president of the Jackson County Genealogical > Society, and always appreciate any imput to improve methods of finding > pertinent information for individuals doing family research in Jackson > County. > As of this week, I am going to try to set up an appointment with some of > the county personnel that would be able to give us ideas on how the attic > court records could be taken care of. A few years ago, I had spoken to an > employee and was told that shelves were to have been erected, separating > each office of the court house, with these dockets. Am certain that > individuals that are willing to engage in this project would be willing to > waive any type of liablity insurance that would be involved. > Would appreciate any input you might have on this matter. > Ruth > Ruth H. > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Elmer Thorn <[email protected]> > To: <[email protected]> > Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 12:32 PM > Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > Richard, if you live close by Jackson maybe the first step is to talk with > > the commissioners and get thier imput as to how they feel about the value > of > > these historical records. Then start a grassroots group that will not > give > > rest until something is done. Yes ,you will get criticsism but don't let > > that stop you. Your ancestors would have never been pioneers if they > > listened to the nay voices that will always surround progress. Keep the > > issue hot until action is taken. I suggest finding an organization or > > businessmen or a local wealthy citizen that has some influence and will > > help seek a solution to a place for storage of these records. Also keep > > your genealogy group at your right hand. They should be the ones that can > > receive these records. If there isn't a genealogy group there that is > active > > , form one. Don't let the negative stop you. Some of us out here on the > > skirts will be behind anyone that is trying to preserve history and our > > heritage. Let me know if I can help from a long distance in any way etc. > I > > will try to get a letter to the newspapers soon. " Keeping our history > > alive" Et > > ----- Original Message ----- > > From: "RICHARD LAND" <[email protected]> > > To: <[email protected]> > > Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 10:58 AM > > Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > > > > > > > I recently requested that the Jackson County Probate Clerk send me a > copy > > of > > > my great grandfather's 1831 birth record. The following is her > response: > > > > > > "Our records begin with 1867. The records before that is a toss up. I > > used > > > to tell people that they could check in Ross County and then I had this > > > person that came back in here and jumped me good for telling them Ross > and > > > they went there and they were not there so from then on I told them > > > Columbus, and then I had someone come in and growl at me because they > were > > > not in Franklin. So I am not real sure about what to tell you." > > > > > > She included the mailing addresses for Ross and Franklin County Probate > > > Courts and stated she really hope they can help. > > > > > > My questions are what about the attic? What should I do next? > > > > > > Richard > > > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > > > Get rid of annoying pop-up ads with the new MSN Toolbar - FREE! > > > http://toolbar.msn.com/go/onm00200414ave/direct/01/ > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

I might be wrong, but it is not the Reorganized Latter Day Saints church (RLDS) any more. They have changed their name to the Community of Christ Church. They are not associated with LDS. When we are talking about the Genealogy files in Utah, we are speaking about the Mormon (LDS) religion. Wellston has a very active Community of Christ Church. Tom ----- Original Message ----- From: "Karen Davis" <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, April 12, 2004 4:55 PM Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] Courthouse CD project > In speaking with Bob, he tells me that the article I posted last week from > the Wellston Telegram is slightly incorrect. > > The records that are being sampled are from 1990 forward. Naturally this > will not include the old tax lists, etc. I have been told there is lots of > township info in the attic also. This company is working with a sample of > records and will present to the commissioners at a future date. Nothing is > certain on this CD project yet. It's going to cost several thousand to do > this from 1990 forward. > > If we can get RLDS interested in coming in to film all the old stuff, even > if it's only to 1950 (arbitrary date) Bob is willing to work with them 100%. > > Someone give me some input. > > Karen > > > > >

Thanks to every one for the encouragement. I am defiantly going to Jackson and Im going to go ahead and stop in Vinton, I may if I have time stop over at Lawrence Co. Thanks to all!! Crystal

In speaking with Bob, he tells me that the article I posted last week from the Wellston Telegram is slightly incorrect. The records that are being sampled are from 1990 forward. Naturally this will not include the old tax lists, etc. I have been told there is lots of township info in the attic also. This company is working with a sample of records and will present to the commissioners at a future date. Nothing is certain on this CD project yet. It's going to cost several thousand to do this from 1990 forward. If we can get RLDS interested in coming in to film all the old stuff, even if it's only to 1950 (arbitrary date) Bob is willing to work with them 100%. Someone give me some input. Karen

I just right this moment talked to Bob and he told me he was willing to help the RLDS church in any way to come in and film records. Is there anyone who can tell me who to contact with RLDS to get the project rolling or does anyone have any connections....while the fire is still hot.... Thanks! Karen

"Karen Davis" <[email protected]> wrote: > I just right this moment talked to Bob and he told me he was willing to help > the RLDS church in any way to come in and film records. > > Is there anyone who can tell me who to contact with RLDS to get the project > rolling or does anyone have any connections....while the fire is still > hot.... > > Thanks! > Karen > > i don't know about the RLDS church as to geneology and archives and records but i do know that the church in utah will do it a lot faster and with white gloves also they have the means to restor your records and clean up and repair and restore them . they are definately the experts as i used to be one but resigned as i couldn't keep up. contact the church on line ........ www.mormanchurch.com > ___________________________________________________________ Fidelity Communications Webmail - http://webmail.fidnet.com

my 2 cents...if you stop to think about it the business and jobs would dry up if the records are not available.also some people make money doing lookups . I am sure everybody gains from it. its time to put a little something back and stop being greedy. genealogy is here to stay. ----- Original Message ----- From: <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, April 12, 2004 12:51 PM Subject: Re: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Genealogical Records--Ruth > Ruth, > > Congratulations on your new elective office. > > Pardon me for butting in on your reguest to Elmer. > > Here is one thing you can check on, its about 3 years old, and may have been corrected. There is a "back" room....maybe on the same floor as the Register of Deeds or up one floor...where I was directed that the divorce records (and whatever else is in that category) was stored. They apologized that it was not organized. At the time, I think?, I mentioned to this list, that could be something we do. > > I was told I was welcomed to go back there. That they just hadn't had time to organize it. When I looked into the room, it was full of BIG books (Not labeled as to years or what their contents were. And there were ladders that went almost up to the ceiling. Putting these books on the shelf would take at least 2 people---one up and one down. It would be good to have someone labeling the book "titles" and it would be good to have one putting the "index" of books into a computer. > > Unfortunately, at that time, there would have been room for only a couple of people because it was all stacked around on the floors, cabinets, chairs, whatever. There was no way I could have gone through and got the info in one visit. I "think" I mentioned that to this list. So maybe you can check if the situation is the same. If so, this is DEFINITELY something the genealogical society could help with. > > Please, let me clarify ONE point. If folks reread my initial letter, to this list, I was not inferring about "the nice ladies" in the courthouse as THE problem with Jackson County. Unfortunately, it got very side tracked and became defensive by some, that the ladies were being criticized, while the SPACE, PROCESS, POLITICAL issues and LACK of a strategy by Jackson County to correct and fix the space, preservation and availability of those records to the public is the main thrust. My heart cries at the records that are falling apart from repeated zeroxing and lack of good handlng by the public---(OHS requires white gloves to handle records that old), it's the attic situation with deterioration and lack of knowing what IS or IS NOT THERE and the LACK OF JACKSON COUNTY to allow others to assist them preserve, protect and make those records available for generations to come. OHS is chartered with this task. Vital REcords in Columbus has just turned over 5 more years of Deat! > h Certificates to OHS--Years 1946-1950. These records will be available for public viewing in about a year...after they are microfilmed and catalogued. > > Yes, Jackson County's problem has occurred over many years (WPA, DAR and LDS folks weren't allowed to help). Now that I live far away, I can order copies of Gallia's vital records from the LDS but NOT Jackson County. Yes,there is a tax problem---but Jackson County can be proactive and apply for grants. Gallia County does. > > Jackson County can organize and raise public awareness to get this done OR let someone else do it. Those are the issues, not the "nice ladies" at the courthouse. > > Jackson County is BENEFITTING from folks who travel there to get their ancestry. If "statistics" were taken of folks who visit for genealogical purposes, you could substantiate how many requests are local, mail and from out of state. You could ask, in a survey to those who visit the courthouse, what state they are from, whether they are staying overnight, eating x # of meals there, etc, etc. Jackson County does NOT realize what an economical benefit those records present in folks visiting Jackson County. If they did, they might be able to get local chamber of commerce or someone to donate space, for a tax writeoff. > > For things to change, you EITHER have to turn up the political heat OR provide an economic benefit. PLEASE reread my initial email. I gave an example where > Guilford Co Register of Deeds provides $5 MILLION dollars back to the County AFTER all of it's expenses are paid for. Granted, Guilford Co, NC is a lot larger county but those fees can help. Now, I know that Ohio requires a lot of the $15 to be paid to the state treasury. But keeping the statistics with a survey (get a college student to do this for school credit) can substantiate to the STATE the disportionate amount of requests that Jackson (also Gallia) get because they are the OLDEST counties in the state. This is what your STATE representatives are for--to get special appropriations. > > Also, try going over to Gallia County (especially if it is your first time) armed with trying to get a Birth/Death/Divorce/Marriage/Military records and you will have a totally different and MOST PRODUCTIVE experience with clerks who cooperate with each other and tell you exactly what they can and cannot provide. > > Good luck Ruth on your new position. Thank you for looking for constructive things that can be done. Thank you also to Karen for her involvement. > > I look forward to my next visit in town and if there is an organized need for volunteers, I will help support it. > > (The Genealogical Society might want to create a book/phamphlet on how to prepare for a courthouse visit. You could list what records are available (years) and which office in the courthouse. Include the GIS office, address, phone number of the various cemeteries, also let them know about the $1.00 cemetery map at the library. Maybe you could get the motel, restaurants to advertise to offset the cost of printing and then advertise this on websites, library, etc so that folks will come PREPARED for their first courthouse experience. Also, you could list the dates the counties were formed and to gently advise folks to look in other counties for their information if it is prior to this time.) > > Hope this is helpful. > > Helen > > > > It would take 3 (or possibly 4) people to SORT, put into some type of computer index system and then stack those things on the shelf. > > > > From: "Ruth Hayth" <[email protected]> > > Date: 2004/04/12 Mon AM 10:21:27 EDT > > To: [email protected] > > Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > Mr. Thorn, > > I have just read your letter concerning the problems of obtaining > > information in Jackson County, OH, in trying to find a person't "roots". > > Was recently elected as the president of the Jackson County Genealogical > > Society, and always appreciate any imput to improve methods of finding > > pertinent information for individuals doing family research in Jackson > > County. > > As of this week, I am going to try to set up an appointment with some of > > the county personnel that would be able to give us ideas on how the attic > > court records could be taken care of. A few years ago, I had spoken to an > > employee and was told that shelves were to have been erected, separating > > each office of the court house, with these dockets. Am certain that > > individuals that are willing to engage in this project would be willing to > > waive any type of liablity insurance that would be involved. > > Would appreciate any input you might have on this matter. > > Ruth > > Ruth H. > > > > ----- Original Message ----- > > From: Elmer Thorn <[email protected]> > > To: <[email protected]> > > Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 12:32 PM > > Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > > > > Richard, if you live close by Jackson maybe the first step is to talk with > > > the commissioners and get thier imput as to how they feel about the value > > of > > > these historical records. Then start a grassroots group that will not > > give > > > rest until something is done. Yes ,you will get criticsism but don't let > > > that stop you. Your ancestors would have never been pioneers if they > > > listened to the nay voices that will always surround progress. Keep the > > > issue hot until action is taken. I suggest finding an organization or > > > businessmen or a local wealthy citizen that has some influence and will > > > help seek a solution to a place for storage of these records. Also keep > > > your genealogy group at your right hand. They should be the ones that can > > > receive these records. If there isn't a genealogy group there that is > > active > > > , form one. Don't let the negative stop you. Some of us out here on the > > > skirts will be behind anyone that is trying to preserve history and our > > > heritage. Let me know if I can help from a long distance in any way etc. > > I > > > will try to get a letter to the newspapers soon. " Keeping our history > > > alive" Et > > > ----- Original Message ----- > > > From: "RICHARD LAND" <[email protected]> > > > To: <[email protected]> > > > Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 10:58 AM > > > Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I recently requested that the Jackson County Probate Clerk send me a > > copy > > > of > > > > my great grandfather's 1831 birth record. The following is her > > response: > > > > > > > > "Our records begin with 1867. The records before that is a toss up. I > > > used > > > > to tell people that they could check in Ross County and then I had this > > > > person that came back in here and jumped me good for telling them Ross > > and > > > > they went there and they were not there so from then on I told them > > > > Columbus, and then I had someone come in and growl at me because they > > were > > > > not in Franklin. So I am not real sure about what to tell you." > > > > > > > > She included the mailing addresses for Ross and Franklin County Probate > > > > Courts and stated she really hope they can help. > > > > > > > > My questions are what about the attic? What should I do next? > > > > > > > > Richard > > > > > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > > > > Get rid of annoying pop-up ads with the new MSN Toolbar - FREE! > > > > http://toolbar.msn.com/go/onm00200414ave/direct/01/ > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

Ruth, Congratulations on your new elective office. Pardon me for butting in on your reguest to Elmer. Here is one thing you can check on, its about 3 years old, and may have been corrected. There is a "back" room....maybe on the same floor as the Register of Deeds or up one floor...where I was directed that the divorce records (and whatever else is in that category) was stored. They apologized that it was not organized. At the time, I think?, I mentioned to this list, that could be something we do. I was told I was welcomed to go back there. That they just hadn't had time to organize it. When I looked into the room, it was full of BIG books (Not labeled as to years or what their contents were. And there were ladders that went almost up to the ceiling. Putting these books on the shelf would take at least 2 people---one up and one down. It would be good to have someone labeling the book "titles" and it would be good to have one putting the "index" of books into a computer. Unfortunately, at that time, there would have been room for only a couple of people because it was all stacked around on the floors, cabinets, chairs, whatever. There was no way I could have gone through and got the info in one visit. I "think" I mentioned that to this list. So maybe you can check if the situation is the same. If so, this is DEFINITELY something the genealogical society could help with. Please, let me clarify ONE point. If folks reread my initial letter, to this list, I was not inferring about "the nice ladies" in the courthouse as THE problem with Jackson County. Unfortunately, it got very side tracked and became defensive by some, that the ladies were being criticized, while the SPACE, PROCESS, POLITICAL issues and LACK of a strategy by Jackson County to correct and fix the space, preservation and availability of those records to the public is the main thrust. My heart cries at the records that are falling apart from repeated zeroxing and lack of good handlng by the public---(OHS requires white gloves to handle records that old), it's the attic situation with deterioration and lack of knowing what IS or IS NOT THERE and the LACK OF JACKSON COUNTY to allow others to assist them preserve, protect and make those records available for generations to come. OHS is chartered with this task. Vital REcords in Columbus has just turned over 5 more years of Deat! h Certificates to OHS--Years 1946-1950. These records will be available for public viewing in about a year...after they are microfilmed and catalogued. Yes, Jackson County's problem has occurred over many years (WPA, DAR and LDS folks weren't allowed to help). Now that I live far away, I can order copies of Gallia's vital records from the LDS but NOT Jackson County. Yes,there is a tax problem---but Jackson County can be proactive and apply for grants. Gallia County does. Jackson County can organize and raise public awareness to get this done OR let someone else do it. Those are the issues, not the "nice ladies" at the courthouse. Jackson County is BENEFITTING from folks who travel there to get their ancestry. If "statistics" were taken of folks who visit for genealogical purposes, you could substantiate how many requests are local, mail and from out of state. You could ask, in a survey to those who visit the courthouse, what state they are from, whether they are staying overnight, eating x # of meals there, etc, etc. Jackson County does NOT realize what an economical benefit those records present in folks visiting Jackson County. If they did, they might be able to get local chamber of commerce or someone to donate space, for a tax writeoff. For things to change, you EITHER have to turn up the political heat OR provide an economic benefit. PLEASE reread my initial email. I gave an example where Guilford Co Register of Deeds provides $5 MILLION dollars back to the County AFTER all of it's expenses are paid for. Granted, Guilford Co, NC is a lot larger county but those fees can help. Now, I know that Ohio requires a lot of the $15 to be paid to the state treasury. But keeping the statistics with a survey (get a college student to do this for school credit) can substantiate to the STATE the disportionate amount of requests that Jackson (also Gallia) get because they are the OLDEST counties in the state. This is what your STATE representatives are for--to get special appropriations. Also, try going over to Gallia County (especially if it is your first time) armed with trying to get a Birth/Death/Divorce/Marriage/Military records and you will have a totally different and MOST PRODUCTIVE experience with clerks who cooperate with each other and tell you exactly what they can and cannot provide. Good luck Ruth on your new position. Thank you for looking for constructive things that can be done. Thank you also to Karen for her involvement. I look forward to my next visit in town and if there is an organized need for volunteers, I will help support it. (The Genealogical Society might want to create a book/phamphlet on how to prepare for a courthouse visit. You could list what records are available (years) and which office in the courthouse. Include the GIS office, address, phone number of the various cemeteries, also let them know about the $1.00 cemetery map at the library. Maybe you could get the motel, restaurants to advertise to offset the cost of printing and then advertise this on websites, library, etc so that folks will come PREPARED for their first courthouse experience. Also, you could list the dates the counties were formed and to gently advise folks to look in other counties for their information if it is prior to this time.) Hope this is helpful. Helen It would take 3 (or possibly 4) people to SORT, put into some type of computer index system and then stack those things on the shelf. > > From: "Ruth Hayth" <[email protected]> > Date: 2004/04/12 Mon AM 10:21:27 EDT > To: [email protected] > Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > Mr. Thorn, > I have just read your letter concerning the problems of obtaining > information in Jackson County, OH, in trying to find a person't "roots". > Was recently elected as the president of the Jackson County Genealogical > Society, and always appreciate any imput to improve methods of finding > pertinent information for individuals doing family research in Jackson > County. > As of this week, I am going to try to set up an appointment with some of > the county personnel that would be able to give us ideas on how the attic > court records could be taken care of. A few years ago, I had spoken to an > employee and was told that shelves were to have been erected, separating > each office of the court house, with these dockets. Am certain that > individuals that are willing to engage in this project would be willing to > waive any type of liablity insurance that would be involved. > Would appreciate any input you might have on this matter. > Ruth > Ruth H. > > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Elmer Thorn <[email protected]> > To: <[email protected]> > Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 12:32 PM > Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > Richard, if you live close by Jackson maybe the first step is to talk with > > the commissioners and get thier imput as to how they feel about the value > of > > these historical records. Then start a grassroots group that will not > give > > rest until something is done. Yes ,you will get criticsism but don't let > > that stop you. Your ancestors would have never been pioneers if they > > listened to the nay voices that will always surround progress. Keep the > > issue hot until action is taken. I suggest finding an organization or > > businessmen or a local wealthy citizen that has some influence and will > > help seek a solution to a place for storage of these records. Also keep > > your genealogy group at your right hand. They should be the ones that can > > receive these records. If there isn't a genealogy group there that is > active > > , form one. Don't let the negative stop you. Some of us out here on the > > skirts will be behind anyone that is trying to preserve history and our > > heritage. Let me know if I can help from a long distance in any way etc. > I > > will try to get a letter to the newspapers soon. " Keeping our history > > alive" Et > > ----- Original Message ----- > > From: "RICHARD LAND" <[email protected]> > > To: <[email protected]> > > Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 10:58 AM > > Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > > > > > > > I recently requested that the Jackson County Probate Clerk send me a > copy > > of > > > my great grandfather's 1831 birth record. The following is her > response: > > > > > > "Our records begin with 1867. The records before that is a toss up. I > > used > > > to tell people that they could check in Ross County and then I had this > > > person that came back in here and jumped me good for telling them Ross > and > > > they went there and they were not there so from then on I told them > > > Columbus, and then I had someone come in and growl at me because they > were > > > not in Franklin. So I am not real sure about what to tell you." > > > > > > She included the mailing addresses for Ross and Franklin County Probate > > > Courts and stated she really hope they can help. > > > > > > My questions are what about the attic? What should I do next? > > > > > > Richard > > > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > > > Get rid of annoying pop-up ads with the new MSN Toolbar - FREE! > > > http://toolbar.msn.com/go/onm00200414ave/direct/01/ > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

Hi Susie, I just talked to the city clerk and she told me that this project is still in the works. They have the program, it's still needing set up into their system. At this time, they can't find the time to set it up. The training for it is online and there's no guessing as to when they'll actually get around to it.... From what I know it will be a database so you can find all the Smith's or whoever buried at Ridgewood. Don't know if it will just tell you where they are buried or if it will give more detail to the info. That's the latest. Thanks, Karen ----- Original Message ----- From: <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, April 08, 2004 2:00 PM Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Next meeting of the JCOGS? > Karen there was also talk at the city building last year of putting > Ridgewood Cemetery records onliine also. Could you please check on that progress > also... > Thanks > Susie Simon > >

Mr. Thorn, I have just read your letter concerning the problems of obtaining information in Jackson County, OH, in trying to find a person't "roots". Was recently elected as the president of the Jackson County Genealogical Society, and always appreciate any imput to improve methods of finding pertinent information for individuals doing family research in Jackson County. As of this week, I am going to try to set up an appointment with some of the county personnel that would be able to give us ideas on how the attic court records could be taken care of. A few years ago, I had spoken to an employee and was told that shelves were to have been erected, separating each office of the court house, with these dockets. Am certain that individuals that are willing to engage in this project would be willing to waive any type of liablity insurance that would be involved. Would appreciate any input you might have on this matter. Ruth Ruth H. ----- Original Message ----- From: Elmer Thorn <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 12:32 PM Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > Richard, if you live close by Jackson maybe the first step is to talk with > the commissioners and get thier imput as to how they feel about the value of > these historical records. Then start a grassroots group that will not give > rest until something is done. Yes ,you will get criticsism but don't let > that stop you. Your ancestors would have never been pioneers if they > listened to the nay voices that will always surround progress. Keep the > issue hot until action is taken. I suggest finding an organization or > businessmen or a local wealthy citizen that has some influence and will > help seek a solution to a place for storage of these records. Also keep > your genealogy group at your right hand. They should be the ones that can > receive these records. If there isn't a genealogy group there that is active > , form one. Don't let the negative stop you. Some of us out here on the > skirts will be behind anyone that is trying to preserve history and our > heritage. Let me know if I can help from a long distance in any way etc. I > will try to get a letter to the newspapers soon. " Keeping our history > alive" Et > ----- Original Message ----- > From: "RICHARD LAND" <[email protected]> > To: <[email protected]> > Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 10:58 AM > Subject: [OHJACKSO-L] Records Before 1867 a"Toss Up" > > > > > > I recently requested that the Jackson County Probate Clerk send me a copy > of > > my great grandfather's 1831 birth record. The following is her response: > > > > "Our records begin with 1867. The records before that is a toss up. I > used > > to tell people that they could check in Ross County and then I had this > > person that came back in here and jumped me good for telling them Ross and > > they went there and they were not there so from then on I told them > > Columbus, and then I had someone come in and growl at me because they were > > not in Franklin. So I am not real sure about what to tell you." > > > > She included the mailing addresses for Ross and Franklin County Probate > > Courts and stated she really hope they can help. > > > > My questions are what about the attic? What should I do next? > > > > Richard > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > > Get rid of annoying pop-up ads with the new MSN Toolbar - FREE! > > http://toolbar.msn.com/go/onm00200414ave/direct/01/ > > > > > > >

Hi, Thought I'd add my 2 cents in after thinking about this issue most of the weekend. CD shelf life - At this point, I don't know what the shelf life of a CD is. Obviously if toddlers are given CD's they will not last long. If they are stored in hot dusty attics, they won't last long. If they are taken care of and have normal use, they will last for a long time. I do know there is a difference in preserving records and recording them so that they may be used for viewing purposes. In technical terms, putting the info on CD will not preserve it as it won't be in the same format as the original. This only makes the information "usable". What happens to the originals is up to the county, whether they give them to Ohio Historical or they toss them back into the attic is to be foreseen. It's anybody's guess what will actually happen to the originals right now. Status of the attic - It's a mess. The very last I heard pigeons had got in and did their pigeon thing all over the whole mess and everyone knows what kind of health hazards are involved with pigeon poop. As for the county, in this current society where everyone sues everyone for everything, I cannot blame them for not allowing people in the attic to dig around in this. It's a health issue and a liability for them also. Understand they are just trying to keep from being sued in the future. Bob is a great guy and I've talked with him several times about the attic issue. He is in contact with the appropriate persons regarding this. Let me do say that if the commissioners don't decide to lay out money and attention on this issue, then it's not going to be done. Bob can keep letting them know that people are interested in the attic mess and make suggestions but where politics is involved.... Courthouse workers - I've never had any problem with anyone working at the courthouse, in fact, they've gone out of their way to be helpful to me and have done things that I'm sure they don't have to do. I don't feel this is because I am a local person. I only know just one or 2 people working there at the moment and times before this, I didn't know anyone. I've been present when the gals have had to answer phone questions from genealogists (not that I eavesdrop on conversations, but you can't help but hear when you're standing right in front of them at the counter) and I've seen them personally working on letters people have written. Personally, I don't have any problems at the courthouse. As for anyone who might come in and be demanding or rude, maybe you should try to treat people like you like to be treated yourself. Honey catches more flies than vinegar. I would hate to think that the gals would complain to the higher ups about rude genealogists and then the higher ups might restrict research hours or research done by the ladies who work there. In a nutshell, I'm grateful for what is available, as it could always get worse. How the mess got started to begin with - it's anyone's guess. It's not the time or the place to point fingers and say any certain person is responsible. They're not. It's been the doing over years and years and years and no one person or group is responsible for the mess. Remember the courthouse has been on fire twice and I know one of the times it was the attic so keep that in mind too. At this point in time I am willing to let the county see if they like the proposal from the CD people and see what they think would be the next step. I will keep in touch with Bob Walton and with appropriate authorities. I will try to keep abreast of the issues and keep them posted to the list so that if at some point in time there needs to be a workgroup gathered to work on the issue, then we can be informed and make plans to help. I am glad to see that people are concerned with this issue, it's important to all of us. Sometimes in a small town, your hands are just tied and we try to do the best we can do. My opinions do not reflect those of my employer, the genealogy society, or any public official. They are mine and mine only and I do not intend to offend or upset anyone. I am simply stating what I've seen and what I've been in contact with. Happy hunting, Karen

Hear! Hear! I say go for it! And I agree. My Dad's relatives are from this area and I can say from experience that since I moved to Ohio, both the Wellston and McArthur libraries are full of geneaolgy info and have people who are very helpful and well informed. They enjoy sharing the information as much as they love having all the visitors. Also, while visiting Ridgewood Cemetery, the caretakers were also helpful in locating gravesites. Happy Hunting! ----- Original Message ----- From: <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, April 11, 2004 12:11 PM Subject: Re: [OHJACKSO-L] Re: Jackson Clerk of Courts > Crystal, I vote for going ahead with your trip to Jackson. I have had very > good results each time I have visited there. I have never had any problem with > the ladies in the court house or the health department. The folks in the > library are also very helpful. I think their genealogical material is on the shy > side, but I have had good results there. I found the library in McArthur > (Vinton County) had a lot more genealogical material, including a lot of Jackson > County info. I have enjoyed each of my visits, and have had good results in > my research. I have always found the people there friendly and helpful. I > think the problem that is being addressed exists to some extent in every county > courthouse. Tight budgets, and not being able to hire all the folks needed to > perform all the services expected. > > Go, and have a good time. Jackson and Vinton Counties are beautiful this > time of year. > > Happy hunting, > > Harold in Florida >