This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: qvarizona Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.virginia.unknown/7211.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Some suggestions for starting a search in Virginia, some of which you've probably already done. One reminder: Save anything you come across that MAY later be of interest, and be sure to save source so you can find it again. 1) Start a new research line with google. Try variations of the name clue words, e.g. "John Doe genealogy, virginia" "Doe family history" (with and without quotes) If you are REALLY lucky, you'll find someone has something online that will help. 2) Try posting on the name boards here on rootsweb.com. 3) The Library of VA online. http://www.lva.lib.va.us/siteindex/index.htm This link will take you to their index page where you can enter names into a search. You can use the general search line (on right near top on the index page), but also scroll down to Land Office Patents, click on it, and then enter surname in the search lines that come up. 3) Do a search on name boards on http://genforum.genealogy.com/surname/ e.g., http://genforum.genealogy.com/doe/ 4) Try ancestry.com and enter names their general Search Program. Although it's a subscriber program for the most part, there are free sections. Same goes for many genealogy search programs. Can't find them? Enter "genealogy" on google. If you are new to genealogy research, you might want to look on the rootsweb home page for hints for new researchers. Lots of good advice. Keep in mind, while you don't want to be to lose good info you come across, it's also important not to make the mistake of assuming anything you find is the final answer, or you could make the mistake of climbing the wrong family tree. Hope this helps you get started. Best of luck. Joanne 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.