1738--Upper W. Conococheague Presb Church formed (now Franklin Co)

1743-1748--First settlers in Great Cove (James Downey & Adam McConnell. (History of Dauphin, Cumberland, Franklin, Bedford, Adams and Perry Counties--Rupp--1846)(Most of historical data cited is from Colonial Archives of PA. Series I)

27 Jan 1750--Cumberland Co. formed from Lancaster Co. (Hopewell, Antrim, E.&W. Pennsboro Twps).

30 Mar 1750--Settlers warned to leave Great Cove. (ibid)

27 Sep 1750--Petition from Great Cove Settlers (James Downey) (ibid)

1754--Ayr Twp created by Cumberland Co.

1755--Pennsylvania purchased land in Great Cove area from Indians. (see Bell's-Mother Cumberland- for maps.)

1 Nov 1755--Indians attack Great Cove (F-I War). (see Rupp)

Nov 1761--Cumberland Deed, 2A125-26 cites James Downing and McConnell and McLellan.

Aug 1762--James Downing estate ref in Cumberland Co. Liber A, Folio 46, 13 Aug 1762. Joseph & Susanna Wells, admin.

1762--Air Twp, Tax List, Cumberland Co. (Widow Downing, John Downing, McConnell & McClellan).

1766--Great Cove Presby Cong formed, Ayr Twp., now Fulton Co. (see Bell)

1767--Mason Dixon Line Survey completed, establishes boundary between PA & MD.

1769--41 residents of the Cove send a petition to "the Revd Presbitery of Donigall", at Rock Spring Church to supply a minister--John Black.

1771--Bedford Co. created from Cumberland. Includes Ayr Twp.

Copyright © 1998 by Joe Downing. All Rights Reserved