This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: hortenciavance Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/surnames.vance/1072.1205.1.2.1.1.1.2/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Karen, John Wilson Vance was my Great Great Great Grandfather. His father was Joseph Colville Vance (Born 3-24-1759, Died 8-5-1809). John was born March 18, 1782 and died May 6, 1857. He had 5 sons and 6 daughters. Sons: John Wilson Vance, Jr; Horace winfield Vance, Marion W. Vance, Joseph (J. Col.) Colville Vance and Josephus. Daughters: Dianne, Helen, Bridget, Larua G (Lura), Mariah Caroline and Josephine L. He was one of the early five pioneers of central Illinois. He opened a Salt Works there. Later, became known as The "Major". He served multi terms as a State Senator and was known as a good friend of Abe Lincoln. Lincoln would stay at his home when he would ride "The Circuit" (lawyers would travel from town to town) from Springfield. Stories were told at how Lincoln loved to bounce Lura on his knee. Hope this helps. I have further ancestries that go down to my roots, if interested. James Vance Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.