I have a ggg grandfather who lived in Yalobusha MS and Lafayette MS. His name was John Thomas Bland 1813-1867. I believe after his death in MO that his widow, Martha Bland returned to MS with several of their children: Edwin, Ida, Della (or Dela) and Charles. These Blands stayed in MS and I don't believe even knew their older siblings (from a different mother) who stayed in MO at the time John Thomas Bland died. Martha was living with Ida, Della and Charles in Pontotoc MS in 1880. I am not sure where they were in 1870. Still looking for them at that time and have no idea where they went after. Do you recognize the names: Edwin, Ida, Dela (or Dela or Delia?) or Charles Bland from MS in the late 1800's or early 1900's Also, I have been in contact with a descendent of their older brother who was James K Polk Bland of Lafayette MS. Some of his descendents still live around Oxford, MS area. If you know of anyone researching Blands in Pontotoc MS or Lafayette they might also be connected. If this doesn't ring any bells feel free to disregard this message. I am just hoping to find more Bland connctions. My uncle is doing the Bland dna test also so I wondered if you had done that. The website Bland Heritage is a great resource as well and has info on the Bland dna testing if interested. It is for males carrying the Bland name. :) Best wishes!
Valerie