Beside the Waters is a study of the genealogy, beginning in late 1600 and early 1700, of two parallel lines of Dewell and Deuell families in Virginia, in the counties on the south side of the James River, and in the Peninsula on the north side. It begins with some Dewells in England and Virginia in the 1600’s. Beside the Waters includes colonial, national, and state history blended with the tribulations and triumphs of the Dewells of Virginia. Again and again in the profiles of family members, that combination of probative facts, coincidence, and pure drive open mysteries to believable interpretations. Part of its support shows that "probably" is the right word in some conclusions. This honest word is as reassuring as the notes that support the narrative and the extensive appendix. The well placed and identified photographs and selected documents add genetic and cultural as well as legal heft to the accumulating story. Numerous other family details are included that were uncovered through interviews with living relatives.