COPYRIGHT NOTICE All materials contained on these pages are furnished for the free use of those researching their family origins. Any commercial use or publication of any type without the express written consent of the compiler/author, Catherine Williams Cooper, is strictly prohibited.

When I was in elementary school, the students were given an assignment of reporting on a famous person and their relationship to that person. I immediately sought the help of my mom, who had been researching our ancestors for years. Mom supplied me with the necessary information on Israel Boone. I had no idea who he was but figured he must be "famous" since Mom said so. After listening to the other students report on their familial ties (however distant and removed) to Abe Lincoln, Pocahontas, etc., I gave my report on Israel Boone. Like myself, none of my classmates knew who he was - or even cared. This event definitely delayed my interest in genealogy. Over the years, however, my mom regaled me with stories of our ancestors. Though I didn't descend from presidents or Indian princesses, I learned that my ancestors were daring, hardy pioneers who were willing to risk so much to find a better way of life. They lost numerous children to sickness, watched sons and nephews perish in wars, and survived scandals that most people wouldn't give a second thought to today. Over time, I came to appreciate their fortitude and the difficulties of their lives and the relative comfort of my own. I come from a long line of amateur genealogists. Fortunately for me, my great grandmother, grandmothers, and mother all took the time to research and document our families for future generations.

Much of the information I have on my ancestors came from these women. In doing my own research, I've taken notes from court records, newspapers, microfilms, etc. and decided to make these available to others who might be able to use them. Many of these are not related to my ancestors but will hopefully be useful to others.

Please note that I cannot promise accuracy of the family pages that I've provided. Much of the information is based upon legal documents, etc. However, where documents were not available, I've had to depend upon the information handed down to me from previous generations. Therefore, use the information as leads but follow up with research.

Enjoy!

This site is dedicated to my great grandmother, Annie Calmes McGraw; my grandmothers, Mamie Elizabeth Thomas and Esther Edwards Ford; and my Mom, Anne Elizabeth Ross.

Favorite Links

Chambers & Related Families of SC, AL, MS