Thanks to all who have shared their information on this subject. I am learning more and more from each of you. To explain a little more clearly about the North v. South Brownings: Prior to the big split, all the Brownings were in the Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia area. Then there is some kind of disagreement and part of the family moves west via the Mormon and Oregon Trail to follow John Smith? (right?) who founded the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The Brownings who did not join the new church stayed on where they were and eventually, slowly moved southward, somewhat westward, to NC, SC, GA, MS,IL, TN, MO, LA, TX.