Dear Leslie, Here's how I got information on my "black sheep" great uncle: The rumor was that Uncle Abs had been at Monroe for forgery. I decided to see what I could learn. First I called the Lynnwood police department on the phone (mainly because I was working in Lynnwood at the time). Explained that I was looking for prison records from the '20's and/or '30's. Before I could say "Thanks so much!" my call was transferred (I didn't even have to redial) to some other location where they also listened to my story and transferred me once again, this time to Olympia. After looking up the name (I could hear "looking up" noises in the background), the helpful person took my name and address and said they would see what they could find. Two days later I had records in my mailbox! There was a note apologizing for the fact that the actual prison records had been destroyed but the "control card" still existed and they sent me a copy of that along with a copy of his clemency file. They didn't even charge me the usual (worth it, I'm sure) research charge as they were afraid they had misled me on the phone as to what was available. I got a photo, dates and charges made against him for his multiple unfortunate incarcerations (he started at the state farm, then hit Monroe, and his final stay was at the big house in Walla Walla). There was an official statement of his crimes and a statement from him. A physical description, an IQ score, extent of schooling, and promises of improved behavior in the clemency file. Every time Washington got a new governor, Abs got out of another incarceration -- he was a smooth operator. Abs eventually skipped bail and died in Guam. All I can say is go for it. Pick up the phone, call the business number of a police department and start down the trail! Joyce Wans Mukilteo WA USA