THE Review has helped a man from Missouri trace the home of his grandmother, who left Littledean for California by steamer in 1885.
A third-party in the story is Joe Watson of St Briavels, who responded to a Review letter from Bill Wilson, 76, who was trying to trace his family tree and sought information on the Kilford family of Littledean.
Joe wrote to Bill suggesting he contacted Gloucester Records Office, asking in particular for details of Eliza Kilford, his grandmother.
"Since then we have taken trips over there to meet Joe and his family and have become friends," said Joe.
"And I was able to find the actual building she lived in, although all there is now is actually a stable.
In his most recent visit to Missouri Bill showed Joe and his family many of the sights in Kansas and Arkansas, and Joe travelled along the famed Route 66 in Missouri, Oklahoma and New Mexico, travelling as far west as the Grand Canyon.
During his stay he was able to help Bill and his wife Helen and family celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
"He would love to come over here to see the area but unfortunately his health won't allow it now," said Joe.
"Nevertheless I send over the Review regularly and he is always pleased to have it – we write and chat about what's in it."
Bill sent a picture of Joe to the Review from Missouri, saying he would still like to hear from anyone with details of his Forest roots.