Where did they live in Des Moines Co? I was able to get church records for the town (Mediapolis) where my ancestors lived in Des Moines Co. dating back to 1843 from the Family History Library. The probate records were also outstanding.

Did you find William in the 1850 census with his parents? There is a "Willaday Cole, age 30" in Des Moines Co. in 1850 from Canada. You could check the 1841 census for Canada to find his parents.

Good luck.
Carolyn

>>>I know that William Cole and Lusetta Buchanan were married in Des Moines Co. on Feb 12 1857
I am hoping that I could get a copy of this record in hopes of finding William's parents names.