Hello Susan,

Thanks so much for responding in the interest of a possible Kennedy Wagon Train Reunion.

I am trying to compile a list of descendants of those wagon train members for a possible reunion. I have been in touch with Jayne McCarley, great great grandaughter of Captain Kennedy, and others who agree this would be a wonderful event. This is all still in the early planning stages but is something I have thought about for the past 5 years. Jayne suggested a location for the reunion to be Baker City, Oregon. The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is there and would hold some interest for all.

I descend from Rev. Joseph Paul, pastor on the Kennedy Wagon Train.

I am very interested in learning more about your Estes family. The only "E" I had on the list from Hamilton Scott's Diary was Espy, for which I have found nothing concrete. Spellings have been very difficult on some. I do, however, have a Thomas W. Estes that married the daughter of Thomas Paul (who was also on the Kennedy Train), the son of Joseph Paul. Her name was Louis Jane Paul. Which Estes do you have going west in 1862?

I also noticed on your other message boards that you replied in regards to George Smailes. I believe him to be another member of the Kennedy Wagon Train. Hamilton Scott's Diary lists a Smales. As I mentioned spellings have been difficult.

Following your messages on George Smailes I also noted your response to a message from Cheryl that in the 1880 census George's mother-in-law's name is listed as Rannsavell (Rouncevillle - again spellings very difficult). Hamilton Scott's Diary also lists a Rounceville.

I feel we have several connections here to the Kennedy Wagon Train. So many coincidences.

I am anxiously looking forward to hearing more on these families and our possible reunion. Please E-Mail me direct at:

DHeik0511@yahoo.com

Thanks again,

Donna Paul Heikkila