This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: BOWDEN, TRAVIS Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/an/DhB.2ACE/694.1.2.1.2.2 Message Board Post: The Bowden family evidently was very fond of passing on family names. Here are my notes on the William BOWDEN who died in Coffee Co., Tenn. in 1842, including his will. Maybe they will help you to sort out some of the Williams. Research passed on to me has this William as descended from William Bowden and Elizabeth Travis via their son Travis and his wife Penelopy (unknown). 1842 - In the name of God Amen I, WILLIAM BOWDEN of the County of Coffeee and State of Tennessee being in sound mind and memory but weak in body do make this my last will and testament, Item 1st, My soul I hereby resign to God who gave it and my body to the dust from whence it came. Item 2nd. I do will and bequeath unto my beloved wife Nancy [nee Wiggins] after my death the plantation just as it is during my wifes life for her to do with as she pleases and after her death the plantation where I now live is to belong to my two youngest sons viz. Frederick [W.] McBowden [sic] and G. L. Bowden, the names of the negroes Daniel and Priscella and my son G. L. Bowden I leave two negroes names Louiza and Ben extra of their share after the death of my wife, This I do acknowledge to be my last will and testatment revoking all former wills by me written or caused to be written, Given under my hand and seal this 21st day of May 1842. William (X) Bowden (SEAL) Daniel Hardaway Dudley Gunn. 1840 - residing in Coffee County w/ 2 males 20-30 yrs. (presumably Frederick and G.E.) and 1 female 60-70 yrs (presumably wife Nancy). 1830 - “In 1830 Wm. Bowden and Hugh Davidson erected cotton-gins on Duck River, in the Fifth District.”