Just to let you know of my experience-- I wrote to Texas State Library and Archives Commission, P. O. Box 12927, Austin, TX 78711-2927, requesting info on someone I thought to have been a prisoner, providing name and date of birth. I included my email address in my letter, and shortly after the Archives received my letter, an Archival Services Staff member email me that they found a Jim , but not a James of the surname I was requesting, and that the date of birth showed a two year difference. I responded to the staff email to me, and ordered a copy of the info. I was not able to receive a copy of the actual record, due to the delicate condition of the original record, however, the Archives used two made-up forms, one is Conduct Register Transcription Form, and the other is Convict Record Ledger Data Transcription Form-Later records. The Archives staff then writes the info on the forms, that is found in the actual record, and sends it to one requesting the info. The info on the forms is: Convict Number; Name, Age, Height, Weight, Complexion; Eyes; Hair; Marks on person; Marital relations; Use of tobacco; Habits; Education; Able to read; Able to write; No. of years at school; Date of birth; Birthplace; Birthplace of father; Birthplace of mother; Occupation; Time of conviction; Offense; Terms of imprisonment; County; Residence; Plea; When received; Expiration of sentence; Ex-service; Remarks. The Conduct Register Transcription Form shows: Number; Name; County; Location; Penishments. At the bottom of this form, the Archives staff member had written out the "Pardoned" order. This order, gives name of Governor ordering the Pardon; grants the convict full pardon and restores him to full citizenship and the right of sufferage; is dated; and gives the case number. The info on the forms is brief, such as: yes; no; temperate for Habit; Light for complexion; scar on right hand; scar on bridge of nose; and No. 8 shoes. I have had great success concerning my search for info, and several kind and helpful people have email me with advise. One lady in particular, advised me that when a prisoner has been pardoned, the transcript of the trial is sent to the Governor, and that I should request the Archives to check the Governor's Office Papers. It turn out that the lady is acquainted with the incident. This is defenitely a "success" story, and a speedy one. I could not have learned so much so soon, without the help of the members on the Shelby Co., TX mail list. Thank you. Sallie