Originally from south London, England my parents (John Joseph Etchell-dob 1915 & Elsie Ada Hatch-dob 1917)divorced when I was born (1941)and have had no contact with my fathers family. On searching the net for poss. relatives and ancestors I came across James Etchell who was on the 1843 Oregan Trail Trek, he registered a land claim in Yamhill County in Feb 1847, poss. using the name Getchell.
I would be grateful if anyone can supply details of any of the above.
ps. Belated best wishes for 2001 to everyone.