This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: janetjones1641 Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.pennsylvania.counties.northumberland/9723.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Thank you so much for your reply. My Grandfather's name was James Birch born 1891 Shamokin P.A. Parents-Joseph Birch born in Lancashire England, mother Hannah Birch nee Filer born in South Wales U.K. Joseph and Hannah married in Northumberland county in 1890 and returned to Wales around 1902. My grandad tried for many years to obtain a certificate from the States but with no success ( you're explation would i'm sure be the reason ) and of course it was in the days before the internet. He always said that he was born on board ship or on "American Waters " wheter this tale was true i've no idea and hence the hunt for the record of his birth. I can't imagine my great gran marrying in P.A. coming home to Wales and returning while heavily pregnant, but who knows. The Birch family attended the Church of England here so i guess they must have attended the Protesant church while living in Shamokin. Thank you for taking the trouble to try and help, it's very much appreciated. I'll leave my e mail address if that would make it any easier. Best wishes. Janet. [email protected] Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.