Bob, Have you participated in one of the Smith projects conducted by Family Tree DNA (http://www.familytreedna.com)? That might help to connect the dots. I have a Hicks in my ancestry, but in relation to my Bates line. I also have a Smith line, but not to my knowledge in NC, although sometimes I see Smiths that are very interesting to me. I don't know who my John Smith's siblings or parents were. He was born between 1760-1770 and died in Westmoreland Co. PA in 1849. I hope you are successful in breaking down your brick walls. Lee Anne