This is a long, long, loooong...shot. I'm wondering if anyone has access to local newspapers of the late 1850's? I have a copy of a diary that was kept by William B. Wilson, of possibly Wilsonville, but in the area of Bendersville, between 1829 and 1871. William B. was a family friend and recorded many "cousins" of mine. The entry dated Dec. 16, 1859 reads: "Cook and 2 colored men hanged today." I know it's brief, probably intentionally, but I'm sure it's a related Cook. Any suggestions where to find such papers? Or criminal records? Or.... This is late, but it is the anniversary of Pres. Lincoln's address at Gettysburg. See the story of two Cook sisters who met and heard Lincoln at Gettysburg. <A HREF="http://showcase.netins.net/web/creative/lincoln/news/recollect.htm">http://showcase.netins.net/web/creative/lincoln/news/recollect.htm</A> Bob Cooke