I, too have a Mahala Powell, born to John Powel and Sarah Burns in IN in 1855. Does anyone know the origin of Mahala, as it seems to me to be an unusual first name? Here's my line: John Powel (b.c. 1824 in KY) and Sarah Burns (b.c. 1830 in IN), m. Oct. 3, 1851 Vanderburgh Co. IN Show up in 1860 Scott Township Vanderburgh Co., IN and 1870 Scott Township Vanderburgh Co. IN Fed. Census, but not in 1880. Tons of Powel(l)s and Burns in IN in 1850, so will have to methodically look for parents as time permits. Known children: David b. 1854 Mahala b. 1855 Jane b. 1857 Mary b. 1858 Sarah b. 1859 Nancy b. 1860 Geneva (spelled Janerva on 1870 census) b. July 10, 1861 marries Alexander Miller Apr. 2, 1891 Mt. Vernon, Posey Co., IN Anna M. born Aug. 1863 marries George W. Miller 1886 in Morgan Co., IL Louisa b. 1864 John b. 1869 George Miller is Alexander's older brother; Alexander's first wife died 1889 from freak accident, leaving him with small 2 children. Look like a match to anyone? I'll share what I have. Working Burns side of family too. Jacqueline Marcus, nee Miller Millmarc@aol.com