Hi all, Yes I will state the obvious my Scottish ancestors were coal miners. I have reviewed the past correspondence for the last three months and I wish to contribute the following information. 1. Surnames I am researching: BLACK - mined in the Shettleston, Neilston (Balliehouston Coal Mine), Cambusnethan, and Larkhall regions ADAMSON - mined in the Lanrk region NEILSTON - mining location unknown 2. A question was raised as to why our ancestors left Scotland. I would recommend this book "Colliers from Across the Sea" by John H. M. Laslett, ISBN 0-252-06827-0. It gives an excellent description of the living conditions that Scottish Miners endured and some reasons they left Scotland in the mid nineteenth century. I look forward to hearing form anyone who wish to exchange stories or information. Harrold H. Black Jr Dickerson Run Pa, USA [email protected]