The Flanders and Hargrave families of Illinois were close,  they migrated together, lived in close proximity to each other and married into each others families. My search started with my G-G-Grandmother, Sarah Hargrave Flanders and worked backward to include other Flanders, Hargrave Marriages of which I had been unaware. I learned about the salt making industry in Illinois and my ancestors participation in it,  the scandal of the infamous "Slave House" which I learned my William M. Hargrave had purchased in the 1880's and still...... there remain mysteries. I have found 5 marriages for William but have only documented four. Then there is the mystery of William and Cynthia's children.......when and why did they die and where are they buried....?  Initially I had George Hargrave listed with 9 children, only two of them were named. Then I had William, Malenta, Mary and James Hargrave listed but no one knew who their parents were. Thanks to several wonderful people I was able to make the connection that George was indeed the Father of all but James, I have yet to place him. Most of the information I have posted here is the documentation which proves this to be fact. Hopefully, others who have tried to make this connection will find this page.

These lines wouldn't be complete without my McClain and Purcell families and they are represented here as well.....