I am seeking information about my fathers adoptive parents and there
possible relation or association to The Ankenys from Washington State.

Levi Ankeny was a Senator from that state in the early 1900. He also founded the First National Bank of Walla Walla. More on him at http://bioguide.congress.gov/scripts/biodisplay.pl?index=A000258 He married Mary Jane Nesmith, daughter of James Nesmith. He was one of the founding fathers of Oregon as well as a senator from that state. (Biography at... http://bioguide.congress.gov/scripts/biodisplay.pl?index=N000050 )

My father, who is black, believes he is a direct decendent of Levi Ankeny. His adoptive mothers maiden name was Goff. Mary Jane Ankeny's (Levis wife)mothers maiden name was also Goff. My father was adopted in Washington State in 1930. His adoptive parents were William E Cranshaw and Olivia Cranshaw(Goff)They resided in Walla Walla Washington at the time of the adoption.

Pauline Nesmith(Goff),Mary Jane Ankeny's mother, was the daughter of David Goff and Keziah Ford. Keziah's brother was Nathaniel Ford. He was one of the very few who brought slaves with him across the Oregon Trail. More on him at http://faculty.washington.edu/qtaylor/aa_Vignettes/event_holmes_v_ford.htm

If what my father believed about his heritage is true Id like to find someone to help research and write a book about it. Can anyone give me any suggestions as to how I can go about finding help on this project? There are many twists to this story. Too many to mention here. Will share it with anyone who is interested.

Thanks for your time