I found an earlier probate record for James Downing/Dunning in Cumberland Co, PA. Cumberland Co, PA Probate Administration Records, Vol. A, p39. Be it Remembered that on the 2nd day of June 1761 Letters of Administration was Granted to Susannah Dunning of the goods & Chattles (sic) of James Dunning Deceased Inventory to be Exhibited on or before the 2nd day of July Next & an Acct of the Administration Rendered in one Year after the Date hereof Given under my hand and Seal of Office ____ Harm's Alrich New Letters of Administration were granted a year later when James' widow Susannah petitioned the court that she had married Joseph Wells. A widow gives up her rights when she remarries. Her new husband makes all the decisions and owns her property - known as coverture. Cumberland Co, PA Probate Administration Records, Vol. A, p46 - 13 Aug 1762 (Joe Downing 1986). Letters of Administration Granted to Joseph Wells and Susannah his wife of the goods and Chattles (sic) of James Downing Deceased. James died before 2 June 1761 and as Nancy was born 16 Oct 1762 - he could not be her father. Nancy Ann Downing b. 1762 was really Nancy Ann Wells. Mary Lou Cole