Does anyone know what "Ghost River Ferry" is? the name of the ferry or the name of a community? Since the postings about the COLLIERS came out, I have come across an interesting bit of history in my research file. You all may already know this (?) Hope it helps someone add a little flavor to their research; it did mine. (I have no way of knowing if this is common-knowledge to all of you, so please forgive.) It was prepared for a family reunion and is quoted in full as follows. It has information about A(bner) B(elcher) COLLIER and others in that area. I have double checked it for accuracy and the misspellings ("try-weekly" and "excellance" and punctuation are as in the original). It is not signed, but a typed signature block appears at the bottom. ================================ GHOST RIVER FERRY: (ON THE NECHES) Smith Ferry, Texas. Located in the North East corner of Tyler County. Where boats docked operating from Beaumont, Texas, in the 1870's. This ferry was operated by R. R. Smith along with a small country style store, with Post Office in one corner of the building. Mail was received and dispatched try-weekly by horse-back Star route carrier. In 1894 A. B. Collier, the Husband of Serena Davis (Collier) obtained a 2 year contract carrying the mail, and said Billie Davis was substitute carrier. In 1902 the Post Office was moved some 3 miles West to S. P. Deans Small saw-mill and Cotton Gin. And remained in that vicinity until it was discontinued, in 1931. Dean mill cut out years ago. There were four Postmasters served at different terms They were R. R. Smith, S. P. Dean, Emma Holton (Baken), and Madison Minyard. Also Dr.E.T.Minyard M.D. However, the Star route was continued with the addition of box service. To Minyard, Davis, Conner & Grimes Settlements. LOOK: The first Protestant church in Texas, was erected in San Augustine County, Texas in 1829. And its founder was Littleton Fowler, and his remains are buried underneath the pulpit of a Methodist Church nine miles East of San Augustine, Texas. And his monument serves as the pulpit for the church. It is true all of us enjoy being remembered by friends and relatives on birthdays and anniversaries especially. A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter: And he that has found one has found a treasure, and no scales can measure his excellance. Listen: It is not easy to apologize, not easy to be unselfish, not easy to forgive and forget. Assembled by: W. J. (Billie) Davis For use in Davis-Minyard Reunion in September, 1966 ========================================== Claire English ------------------------------