Wondering if there was some catastrophy which swept through Madison Co between 1850-60 which could have killed of the parents (Plato and Catherine) of James and Mary J BEAN (1850 census). A disease, a flood, a snowstorm, any one ever hear of such a thing back then? My info on James and Mary suggest they were without their parents in IL by 1858. James did not know his birthdate. Any ideas where to look to confirm their residence in Madison Co anytime after their appearance in the 1850 census (with Plato and Catherine) ?