Hello,
So sorry I didn't read this before you went to Middlesex Co., VA. I've been there several times. I am a Robert Chowning descendant. My grand mother was Mary Lee Chowning who married John H. Shorter. I have several Chowning cousins who email back and forth. Spelling is as it somes. One of my Great Grandfather Willy Chowning spells his name Chewning. And it goes on. Email me at mydesire2@juno.com and we can give you some more details. The Chowning Farm is in Lancaster Co. The last time I knew it was up for sale. There is also a cousin who still lives in Middlesex Co and he has written several books.