I grew up across the street from Max Gowdy in Elk
City Oklahoma. He was the son of William A. Gowdy
(born in 1826 in SC) and his second wife, whom
you referred to. One of William A. Gowdy's sons
was William Newton Gowdy (born in Darlington Country SC in 1859)
who was my grandfather. You can reach me at
john.gowdy@ces.clemson.edu to exchange more information.