In a message dated 00-09-03 23:17:02 EDT, marypwelch@email.msn.com writes: << During earlier Colonial American Times, many ships were owned by individuals as opposed to shipping companies. Is there a possibility of there being any records of these ships? One in particular I am looking for is The Ship "Loyalty" in the late 1600s ~ early 1700s, owned by Henry Brown, reputed to have had holdings in Chester County. Is there any records of these smaller ships? If so, where can I find some information on these vessels. >> Mary, I too am very interested in any information on this subject. My ancestor Henry Brown/e settled in Burlington County, New Jersey. His son-in-law, Francis Davenport was in Burlington County also about 1680. I have not been able to find them on any ships. Also looking for Gervas Hall, son-in-law of Francis Davenport who we believe may have come over on his own ship. Or maybe they all came over together?? I would be interested in where you learned about Henry Brown and his holdings in Chester Co., Pa,. Thanks, Bob McKeon