The index of Early Settler surnames shown below includes all the families described in W.W. Sellers' History of Marion County, published in 1902. Mr. Sellers' book, indispensible for Marion County research, was the initial source, and inspiration, for this Early Settlers project. The list is known to be incomplete, however, so don't be discouraged if you do not see your ancestors' surnames. Some families came to the area before the American Revolution and moved on. Other families were not well-known to Mr. Sellers and are not included in his book except through mention in connection with families best known to him.

If your surname is not listed below, and your ancestors lived in Marion or Dillon (Upper Marion) County, please contact me with information on your earliest known Marion County ancestor. (Note: A small paragraph, à la Mr. Sellers, would be much appreciated and please do remember to cite your sources as completely as possible.)

Over time we'd like to add original documents and research to better define these Early Settlers and amend/correct the entries in Mr. Sellers' work. The growth and direction of these pages will depend on you, so please feel free to make comments and suggestions. Send email to Victoria.

PLEASE remember that errors are always possible and that you should verify each piece of information by consulting original documents.