Joy, My name is Gregg Downing. My Great Grandfather was Charles Wilson Downing, b. 1871 in Aberdeen, Ohio. His mother was Nancy Downing, b. 1853 in Mason County, KY. She had a brother Robert James Downing, b. 1857, also in Mason County, KY. Their father James Downing, b. abt 1809 - 1813. According to the Lower Maysville, Ky census. He was living with Jane Baldwin in 1850. Her maiden name, I believe was Tucker. According to the 1860 census (same) James and Jane were listed as James Down, with all of the Baldwin children, 10 years older. With the addition of my Nancy and Uncle Robert James Downing. I located them again in the 1870 census of Brown County, Ohio (across the river from Maysville). This time as James Downing, Nancy Downing and James Downing. I also have court documentation as well. I was told at a young age that we were Native American. I also have pictures of my grandfather who looks very Native American. What I have read in the information you submitted may be true. Just a little confusing. I have reason to believe this may be the same James Downing, Cherokee, who is listed in Emmett Starr's books and documentation. Please e-mail me direct for further information. Gregg