Here is a theory as to what happened to Richard Gibson Brown: I found a Richard Brown in Burlington, Racine, WI 1850 census living with Margaret. Also found a Richard arriving in San Francisco on the ship Sarah Sands on 17 Dec 1850. In 1860, a Richard and Margaret Brown are in the household of Albert Brayton, Mendocino, CA. Since Richard's son married Lucinda Brayton, I am wondering if this might be the same one. He could've traveled down the MI river, through New Orleans, Panama and on to San Francisco. All attempts to prove this theory have turned up nothing. As for his origin, I've found the Browns, Braytons and Gibsons all living in the same areas of Lower Canada (Quebec) in 1838. I know that my line of Braytons were there during the American Rev. War. Also have found Browns and Braytons living in close proximity in the early 1800's in Jefferson Co., NY. And have found Browns, Braytons and Motts in Franklin Co., VT 1812-1821. Rebecca, Richard's wife remarried Platt Mott. Unfortunately, I've not discovered a documented link to any of this! Thanks again for any and all help! Beth