On Thu, 17 Sep 1998 16:19:21 -0500 Den&Mari <[email protected]> writes: ) >>Subject: Re: "lost" postings? Does anyone know of any particular shires in England (or other UK countries) where the name RATLIFF (spelled without the 'c" or the >"dc') >>was in use in the 18th or prior centuries? I have written in my notes this, in part sent to me by another Cousin who is researching as well. At present I am unable to confirm these as facts, but it may be a good lead to start from. It is believed that the family came from Sicily (William the good and William the bad Kings of Sicily, Italy) that they were Normans who invaded and became Kings. (there was a 3rd as well, I am at a loss for his name). I am unclear how they came to the RedCliffes but adopted the name from their home. I have been trying to find the exact location of these Red Cliffes and would be happy for assistance, but I believe they are on the borderlands of Scotland. In order for the family to appear more Anglo -Saxon the name gradually changed spelling to become Ratliff and there was supposed to have been a "Town of Ratliff" out side of London. Searching for it as well or reference to it in some form of documentation. This town was where Scottish Ratcliffes settled after changing the surname to Ratliff (some went to Ireland as well). Supposedly the family was of Presbyterian Stock, and during the reign of King James of England they boarded the ship "Discovery" which was under the command of Captain John Ratcliffe. The ship was sailed to Jamestown, Virginia. I am searching for dates and documentation, but if the person who found this, or heard this from family memory (the writer is long gone) is correct this should be something that may be followed up on. My resources are limited so I am a slow searcher, if you are able to find any clues about the Ratliff families arrival in America, I would be happy to see it as well, as I can only go back to the 1750's or there abouts myself. Kelly _____________________________________________________________________ You don't need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail. Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http://www.juno.com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866]