This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Downing/Roach Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/AUT.2ACEB/1261 Message Board Post: My great grandfather Free William Downing b Feb 05, 1849 in OH, d 1902- possibly in SD at eh age of 53. F. W. joined in the Civil War at the age of 16 (1865) and was thought dead until he wiggled his toe as they went to tag it. He was then mustered out on March 24, 1866. He married Loretta Roach 1878-1888, possibly in Claridon, Marion Co, OH. They had 12 children incl: Josephine "Josie", Edna, Eva, Daisy, Myrtle, Hazel, Harold, Frank, Free William Jr, Florence, and Earl (not in that order) Among these kids were two sets of twins. I know nothing more until F. W. Sr served on SD Legislature for 2 yrs from 1897-1898. At that time, they have him listed as Republican, living in Monroe, Turner Co,. If anyone has ANY info on F. W. Sr., PLEASE contact me!