The author traces his paternal (Cottrell) and maternal (Brashear) ancestral lines through at least four generations. Details on children and grandchildren are included when known. Much of the information was passed down within the author's family and is based on original sources that have not been made available in published works or through public sources. The author includes copies of some family documents as well as family photographs. Sources are extensively documented. Timeline and ancestor charts are also included. An all-name index references page number locations for each individual. Primary surnames covered include Alford, Brashear, Cosby, Crutchfield, Ennis, Foreman, Halsey, Kirlen, Lansdale, Penner, Taylor, Wheeler, and Wilson.