I stand corrected, for which I thank Michael Wright. "Dynamite" was not invented and patented till 1866, hence was unknown at the period discussed. http://www.thenagain.info/WebChron/Technology/Nobel.html Paul Drake JD Genealogist & Author <www.DrakesBooks.com> 931-484-9129 To subscribe, change options, or unsubscribe please see the instructions at http://listlva.lib.va.us/archives/va-roots.html