Hi, I'm new to this particular mailing list. I'm not totally sure the difference between this list and the PAPHILAD list, but it looks like this list (PHILLY-ROOTS) has a focus on the city of Philadelphia, where it looks like PAPHILAD has a focus on the county. If I'm wrong, hopefully someone will gently correct me, and guide me when to post here and when to post on the.PAPHILAD list. So, here is my topic. I am researching relatives, Dorothea & Jacob Schmalzried, and their son and his wife, Otto and Mary Schmalzried. Jacob and Dorothea were members of the Excelsior chapter of the ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR, in Philadelphia, PA. Jacob died between 1920 - 1930. Dorthea died Feb. 17, 1935, in Philadelphia. My first question is, since I know little about the O.E.S., is it typical of sons of O.E.S. members to also belong to the O.E.S.? My second question is, since this Excelsior chapter appears to have closed, would deceased's records, such as death information, be available anywhere? Any help or suggestions would certainly appreciated, Rich Columbus, Ohio --------------------------------- Ahhh...imagining that irresistible "new car" smell? Check outnew cars at Yahoo! Autos.