My ancestor, DS BOWMAN, arrived at Hangtown on 6 Sep 1850 after having left Independance, MO on 5 Apr 1850. He walked accompanied with three young companions including his cousin, Clayton BOYLES. One of the other companions died enroute. David apparently tried mining for a couple of years in the area then moved on to Sonoma County where he had one of the first orchards and erected the first wooden structure in the area. He and his family moved onto the Washington Territory in 1871. Is there any way I can research his life in the goldrush area and Sonoma County. Any suggestions of search areas is greatly appreciated. George Gildersleeve