The goal is to make available the best possible information, and that sometimes will result in deferring to others. For example, the Ellis family has their own newsletter, and holds a reunion every year in the Beckley area. There is no need to try to reinvent the wheel, so coverage of the Ellis family will probably be minimal.

Every effort is being made to present the information in an organized, easily understood, and honest manner. While not every piece of information on our Descendants Lists has been verified, many hours have been spent documenting sources. These sources, of course, are available to any family member for the asking - with but one stipulation: You must also be willing to share information and sources.

Coming issues will contain a variety of features, including photos (hard copy issues), histories, anecdotes, vital records, cemetery lists, and research tips. Although introduced above as a newsletter, The Roundtable is intended as more than that: It's also intended as a meeting place for anyone interested in genealogy - young or old, experienced or not - and others who are interested or interesting. If you want to just "stay in touch," you can do it here.

Featured in this premier edition is an article by Rachel Alice (Ferrell) Szasz about getting started. With six years of genealogical research behind her, Rachel brings a great deal of knowledge and enthusiasm with her. She will be relied on heavily for coverage of the Ferrell family, and hopefully can be persuaded to continue as a regular contributor in coming issues.