All genealogies are a work in progress. Although I began my research years ago, 
at times family and job responsibilities took priority and my fascinating hobby 
made its way into a cardboard file box. Today, however, time permits indulgence 
in genealogy as much as I choose. The cardboard box has given way to open files 
and of course, piles of papers on my desk.
Genealogy is exciting...challenging...fascinating...and frustrating! Often when 
we have the time, many 'ancestors' are no longer alive to be asked the 'what, 
when, where, why and who' questions. The puzzle seems to have so many pieces... 
and finding 'one' piece, sometimes, seems to be an almost insurmountable task. 
But little by little, the puzzle takes shape...and the lives of our ancestors 
are finally beginning to come together.
Our family history isn't one of great adventures or phenomenal accomplishments. 
There are no presidents, kings, pirates or thieves. No... it is the genealogy 
of courageous families who came to a new land to make a new life. It is the 
genealogy of hard-working families who worked the farms, mined the coal and 
worked in the mills. Everyday life was hard. Survival was often a struggle. Yet 
they pursued the dreams they had...and they are the grass roots of our families.
Is my genealogy finished? Heavens no! As I attain one set of goals, a new set 
is developed. Will my genealogy ever be finished? Probably not! Most 
importantly, I want our children to know and be proud of their heritage... and 
I want to share the greatness of our ancestors with the world.
If you find information from my genealogy that helps in your research...that's 
great! If you have information I'm lacking...let's share! In the meantime, read 
on and enjoy the documented family history and the family stories that make the 
people come to life! 
I want to give a special "thank you" to Leonard McCown. If it had not been for 
the work that he had done, then, many of us, would not have known each other. 

DISCLAIMER
You will find some information, in my files, that need further study. I do not 
claim to be the final authority on my files and all information is subject to 
further research. It is hoped that the information provided, in these files, will
encourage more research. If this is done then I have accomplished my goal.