There is a Silfies research group which has done quite extensive work. Please feel free to join. There are several variations of the spelling. Some contacts are: Edia Monroe Silvis = ediasilvis@tbscc.com, Mary Cole = cdgg47a@prodigy.com. Also silvius-L@rootsweb.com. I am gggrandaughter of Henry Silfies, ggrandaughter of John William Silfies, gdaughter of William James Silfies, and daughter of Ernest Leroy Silfies. Contact any of the above or me and me/they are sure to help answer your questions.