Hey Rick,

Thanks. That makes sense. To be honest, no I haven't looked elsewhere just for him, other than cemeteries. I just wish I had a death date for him. The only thing I've got for him so far is the 1850 census. He was 19 yrs old & working on his father's farm. Nothing else has really materialized. Will start checking the surrounding areas though. I've done that before with others, just don't know why I didn't think about it this time. If I do find one or two that fit the profile, how do I know I have the right one? I'm beginning to think that everybody & their brother named their sons Ben. Yes, Maeder's would have been easier. Unfortunately, I've got 3 unrelated Smith lines to track. Thanks for you help. I do appreciate it.

Vickie