Jim, I've never heard a stupid question from a genealogist. How else can we learn?? See the Lorain County webpage for information about early birth certificates. See Lorain County's Resource page at http://www.centurytel.net/lorgen/resources.htm Another alternative is to order the microfilm from the Family History Library (LDS). See the first entry at http://www.centurytel.net/lorgen/lookups.htm You might also hire a local researcher by visiting http://www.centurytel.net/lorgen/researchers.htm Our Lorain county webpage can be very helpful. Visit http://www.centurytel.net/lorgen Sue -- Sue Strick, Lorain County Coordinator for OHGenWeb Lorain County Genealogy Page, http://www.centurytel.net/lorgen L.C. Mailing List, http://www.centurytel.net/lorgen/mail.htm