I exported my Outlook Express addresses on XP to a drive and then imported them to my Windows8 as directed. All the names appeared to be saved via the import facility but how do I get W8 MAIL to recognize or find them? In the TO field I type a person's name that used to be recognized and auto-filled but they are not being found?

You might need to install email client software to import the Outlook Express (OE) data into Windows 8. Outlook Express is a free email client that comes only with Windows XP operating system. On windows 8 operating system you get Mail app. to send\receive emails.

You cannot import the Outlook Express (OE) data into Windows 8's Mail app, you may be able to import the backed-up OE data (DBX files) into Windows Live Mail (2011 or 2012) or Microsoft Office Outlook as long as the backup set includes a file named FOLDERS.DBX.

You may refer the suggestion provided by "PA Bear" from this link:

http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_8-ecoms/windows-8-importing-old-emails-from-previous/d46b7b39-2308-4304-af54-2a2cd53a180c