I just discovered a new source (at least for me) to pinjpoint your ancester at a given point in time. At the Local History Library at the Warren, OH library, there is a photocopy of a book that lists the earmark brands for people in Vienna Township, Trumbull Cty, OH starting in 1807. I would think that other areas would have a similar register so they could identify stray animals. I now have found the fourth reference to an elusive ancestor.