My grandfather was Howard Melvin Smith b.aug. 15, 1915 in Penawawa, in Whitman county Washington. His father was Charles Smith born in VA around 1890-91 His mother was Hazel Gilliloud or Gillilaud I'm not sure of the spelling born in WA around 1894-95 any info on them would be appriciated

Hi Jerry,
I noticed your inquiry about Howard Melvin Smith and his father Charles Smith. I believe that Charles Smith, may be my great-uncle. My grandmother Minnie (Smith) Putnam came west with her family from Virginia about 1900. Her siblings were Myrtle, Charles, and Earnest. The homesteaded in the Dusty-Penewawa area. The parents were William M. and Mollie Smith. Grandma talked about the family often. I found a copy on-line of the marriage certificate of Charles Smith and Hazel Gilliland dated 1911. One of the witnesses who signed the certificate was Mrs. H.H. Michaelson, the married name of my great aunt Myrtle Smith, so I am fairly sure that the Charles Smith you are referring to is my great-uncle. I have gathered a fair amount of information about the Smiths as I live in Whitman County Washington, as did they. Would love to hear from you.

Thanks. Rick Combs