As a family historian, I began pursuing the story of my family's roots as an avocation in the early 1980s as time permitted. As the years advanced, it became a more serious, full-time endeavor. Via a variety of primary and secondary source information, I have been able to make tremendous discoveries and unlock many mysteries of our ancestors and that of extended family as well.

The discoveries include many moments of tremendous accomplishments and sources of pride as well as tales of severe disappointment and terrible heartbreak. It is the tale of life. No one is perfect, and everyone's life must experience highs and lows.

I have done none of this on my own. Firstly, it is through the grace of God that He has enabled me to do this. Secondly, I thank my dear wife who encourages and supports me every step of the way. Also, I have encountered several people who have generously shared their discoveries and knowledge with me. I, most definitely, must also acknowledge the contributions of the kindest court clerks, archivists, and cemetery sextants who have bent over backwards to provide me with documents and information. I have only dealt with most of them on the telephone, but it gives me great pleasure to know that when I need them, they will answer my calls and do their best to provide what I need.

Finally, I am particularly indebted to the kind folks of the Find a Grave world who have worked collaboratively with me to make corrections, provide additional data, and unite family members into family units. Compared to many of you, I am a neophyte to this project, but I am doing my level best to get up to speed thanks to your assistance and guidance. Rest assured that if I make a suggested edit on a page that you maintain, I have well-researched the data and have evidence to support the changes.

I am grateful to you all beyond my ability to effectively communicate what it truly means to me.