This posting is a celebration about finding information online. And a caution about being prepared for surprises.

Over the years I've blogged about my family line that goes back to the 1700s. This weekend I picked up the thread again to do more research on my 5X great-grandfather, Henry Stahl (1707-1790). I came upon a phenomenal website created by John D. Meredith, whose grandmother (like mine) was born a Stahl. I believe John and I are sixth cousins.

Even if you have no German-immigrant ancestors who came to America during the 18th century, I think you'll be amazed at the details John Meredith has unselfishly shared here. Family historians should definitely look at the archive of digital documents, e.g., wills and other probate records, land records, bios from county histories, birth and death records, etc. 

While I've only scratched the surface in reviewing his website, I'm already in shock over one finding. When Henry Stahl died (intestate) in 1790, his estate inventory listing included this belonging: "1 negro woman and child."