Ken,

Thank you for your offer of support and the proposal of a subscription or fee, but I would consider my efforts a failure, if I can't design and operate a "free" site capable of paying its way with voluntary support and the sale of Civil War related products, like books and military records.

Someday we MAY have a section of History-Sites.Com, which requires subscription, but the message boards will always be free.

I can foresee a time in the future as History-Sites.Com expands to include unit histories, biographies, campaign and battle histories, maps, etc., that we may have a section for subscribers, but not for the discussion sites.

Ken, if you or others reading this posting feel moved to support these sites, I would prefer that when you buy a book through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powell, etc. That you use one of our links. When you purchase a book through the links provided on these sites, the message boards earn a 4 to 7% commission and you don't pay a nickel more. When you order a service record or pension file or both the message boards earn about $4 to $7 and you have personalized contact with outstanding researchers like Alan Pitts and Jonathan Webb Deiss, plus we're considerably cheaper than services like Broadfoot.

I've got some new ads and artwork that will make it easier to place book orders through these sites. I've also got a plan to introduce a service, so people can take advantage of Amazon and other discount online booksellers' pricing, but pay by check/mail order. This might be an ideal way for the message boards to earn income by processing online orders for people who feel uncomfortable purchasing online with a credit card.

But, to get back to your original posting. Ken, you make me feel good. Just your words of support and a desire to help is most gratifying and appreciated. Let me repeat, the message boards aren't going anywhere. When I stated that these message boards were a money-losing proposition, I wanted our offending posters to understand that our administrators are providing their services voluntarily and in my case underwriting these sites. I am a salesman, so I put up with a lot of nonsense from my customers, but at least, I'm making some money for my trouble. In the case, of the message boards, the extra work, time and tribulation have no offsetting rewards. I did not mean to worry anyone, by my posting that I would be closing the message boards.

Thanks again for the supportive words.

Jim