Hello Joyce, I find the information that you have been posting fascinating. I am interested in a quote as follows " "[the surname] originated in Wales, and, it is said, was originally Ap. Howell, but was condensed by writing it Powell. It was known in Wales and England as early at least as the reign of King Henry VIII, A.D. 1509. They were among the first settlers of America, and especially of Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the New England states, going back in date perhaps two hundred years. ... My father was a native of Breconshire; and I was born in Glamorganshire, the next county south of it." (136) My mothers was a Powell and her father and grandfather were born in Breconshire, now I realise that Powell is a common Breconshire name, but I am wondering if your book contains any more information relating to Breconshire. Kind Regards, Ian Moseley, Hay-on-Wye, Breconshire, Wales, UK.