To JB, concerning DOWNINGS in Alabama: I also have a DOWNING/WELLS connection. But mine is much earlier. I have a Francis Downing married to Susannah Wells, daughter of Richard. They would have married about 1750. They are from Yorkshire, England. Have you heard of these WELLS? They were in MD for quite a few years, then most of the family moved down into KY. Suehodnett@aol.com