Dean - thank you for sharing the civil war information. I will look forward to researching there. I just wanted to share a little more on how I made the connection. 1850 Blount Co census Jeremiah Ratliff with wife Annis children Maryan, Jms (age 12), Sarah, NN NS?, Joshua 1860 Jefferson Co census (as you have) Jeremiah Ratliff with wife Annis children James(age 21), Sarah, Abram listed as residing on Forks Road Prcnt also listed on Forks Road Prcnt is a Mary Overton living with head of house June Perry This is why I thought this James of Jeremiah married this Mary. (Which is listed as the parents of John Ratliff - brother to my ggrandfather.) 1880 Monroe Co Smithville Prcnt Mississippi Jim Ratliff (age 40) b ala Mary wife William son Merica daugh Jno son This is the only census I have found that lists my William with his parents. All of the other ages in this census match too! I can type this up more clearly if interested. Just tickled to discuss it! Thanks again, Kelly