I received a copy of a letter that was sent to the Genealogical Society of LCT. I wrote this article for the Chestnut Ridge Cousins Newsletter taken from the letter sent to me. THE MYSTERY OF WILLIAM LYELL Curtis CRANE was born June 1, 1897. His friends call him "DIXIE"; he grew up in Tennessee, and later changed his name to William LYELL, never telling anyone why, other than sometimes stating he did so after committing a crime. He was born to Sally ASHBY and his father's last name was CRANE, a farmer. William received an appointment to West Point but never attended. While in his twenties, he had a song and dance act with a man named Frank PIGG and they went by the name of "PIGG and CRANE". Sally ASHBY and James CRANE were married December 11, 1888 in Lincoln CO., TN. They lived in the 5th district. James died about 1909 leaving a daughter Irene 9 and a son Dixie. Sally ASHBY CRANE, their mother, was appointed guardian. It is believed that both Irene and Dixie attended the MORGAN SCHOOL as many of the CRANE children in that time period did. Was William "Curtis" LYELL the son "Dixie" of James CRANE and Sally ASHBY CRANE? Who were the parents of James CRANE? Why did Wm. LYELL change his name? If you think you may have the slightest of information or any suggestions please contact me and I will send the info to the grandson of Wm LYELL. Julia [email protected]