This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Cowden Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/nFQ.2ACEB/181 Message Board Post: I am researching a two James Cowdens that appear in Hampshire Co, VA in 1782. I believe they are of the William Cowden line of Chester Co, PA, but not sure. However, the real reason for this note is that my research has identified two well documented Cowden lines in Chester PA. William Cowden came over from Ireland to Chester Co, PA about 1730. There is also a Matthew Cowden of Ireland that settled in Chester Co, PA about 1730. Matthew and his line moved to Paxtung PA near Harrisburg. Has anyone ever seen any evidence that William and Matthew are related?- it seems likely.