I am looking for information on George Shephard RAWLINGS who owned and operated a Trading Post in Silver City, MT during the 1855-1870 time frame.

George was born in England cir 1823. He married Sara PAVEY in 1850 and they settled in St. Louis, MO. George wasn't satisfied staying put, so he left Sarah and their children and headed out west. For many years I have been misguided, thinking that George went to Wyoming. New information recently surfaced and there are actual letters from George to his wife in St. Louis. He appearently even sent her bars of gold (they are long gone). Family lore differs depending on the branch that you talk to. Our side says that George came home for the winters (hence the increasing family) and the other side says he left much later and never returned.

Confirmation that a trading post existed would be my first desire! Also, I have many wonderful family members to share with that person who fits into this amazing puzzle.

Thank you,
Alisa