Sorry, I hit the wrong button; I just want to say that The Drake family story states that the Drakes (who had once resided in Bedford Co then came to Jackson co. Al.(about 1832) "came by flat boat" down the Paint Rock River and then into the Tenn. River to somewhere around Ditto`s landing (or another landing west of Ditto`s) which would have been closer to their destination; then overland to Vinemont, Blount Co. Al. (now Cullman Co.) about 1848) I don`t know if they left the Shelbyville area by boat or not. At certain times of the year these small rivers are probably navigable in or on a small craft. would like to hear some more ideas on travel from that area also. sue in Al.