Hello Jim Downing of Sarasota, Fl., Very nice to find another member of the family tree. I worked on Daniel Downing in the 1970's and haven't done much to update his info. I knew that Stephen Downing (your ancestor) was his brother and through him traced the family back to John Downing of Braintree, MA. using the genealogy "Ohio Descendants of 17th Century Ancestors" by Floyd E. Neikirk. How delightful that you have found a birthdate and place for John as none was given. Would you mind sharing your source? Do you happen to know the maiden name of Eli Downing's (son of Daniel) wife Mercy. They were married before coming to Ohio. Her grave stone gives her bd. as 5 Mar 1790 and the census says PA. I have wondered if it could be Cary/Carey as my grandfather's name was Wilson Cary Cook. There were several marriages between the Downings and Careys in Luzerne Co. You asked if I belonged to the Downing Family Hist. Soc. of America? No, I'm not a member. At one time, I was very active in genealogy with a CG but haven't been for many years. I still enjoy the quest and research a little here and there when time permits. The name Joshua Downing bc. 1796 Pa. is unfamiliar to me. Many people passed through Ohio on the way West. Sorry I can't be of help. Thank you for your message - it's the first time I have heard from a descendant of our New England family of Downings. Let's keep in touch. Mary Lou Cole mlc@tlexpress.com