Peggy Thank you for the suggestion. Yes, I've used the Illinois state archives -- a lot! My mother still owns the family farm there. We have confirmation of the death, just not a report on the accident, if any. What I think I need to do on that is to try to find a local newspaper from around that time period. However, I hadn't thought of the state universities. Thanks for that idea! Ginni >>> Peggie Shaw <[email protected]> 1/9/10 8:58 AM >>> Hello, Have you checked out the Illinois state archives? They have death records archived they say mostly from 1877 on, some earlier depends on the county. They do have tons of links to libraries and other archived records. I am thinking if she died in an accident there was probably a coronors inquest and there might be records of that. Also the accident could have been reported in local papers or there might even be a court case associated with the accident. here is the web address http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/archives/irad/famtips.html If this link does not work just google "Illinois state archives" and you should find it easy. I have found most states now adays have quite alot of archived records that are on searchable databases. Most state sites also have tons of info on what libraries have what holdings etc. Another great resource is the state university, most of their libraries have on line databases also. I just google the name of the university and look for the library link. I have found most of the time if you e-mail the librarian they are very helpful in helping you navigate their archives. Just a few ideas. Sincerely, Peg ------------------------------- To unsubscribe from the list, please send an email to [email protected] with the word 'unsubscribe' without the quotes in the subject and the body of the message CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This communication with its contents may contain confidential and/or legally privileged information. It is solely for the use of the intended recipient(s). Unauthorized interception, review, use or disclosure is prohibited and may violate applicable laws including the Electronic Communications Privacy Act. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender and destroy all copies of the communication.