Have enjoyed all the activity on the Mercer Co list recently although the names aren't familiar. I cannot believe that with all those belonging to the list no one has knowledge of my Mahans. Our first known ancestor William Mahan came from PA to Mo in 1779 or 1799 (both dates being in history books) with a hunting party of DELAWARE Indians thru Shannon Co MO and loved the clear running rivers of the Current and Jacks Fork, the thick forests and plentiful game supply. He returned to PA and brot his family back took him 25 yrs if this legend is correct. Altho a Jacob Mahan was in Mo in 1807 so may have been a son or brother. the Mahans are credited with being the first white settlers in Shannon Co Mo but were at a dead end in Mercer Co. Unless we can find a marriage for William and his son James who married Jane????? gkile@semo.net