I recently read in Catherine Foreaker Fedorchak's book, "Family Research In Monroe County, Ohio, Volume 1, about my husband's 5th great-grandfather, William Shell. In a newspaper column written 1967, she states that William made a declaration of intention to become a citizen in 1839. In 1841 he was granted citizenship. His name was recorded as William Shal. I have written to Monroe Co. for records before and the reply was that the courthouse had burned. Could someone tell me if these records are kept somewhere some place other than the courthouse and where to write for copies. I don't mind doing the digging as I want to verify his citizenship. I am even willing to have someone look for these records and will be glad to pay for the service. There should also be records for wife Magdalena Shell/Shal/Schell and son Jacob. Thanks for any help. Carolyn Shell Cocoa, FL dcgld@quancon.com