I have not researched Edward, as stated James is not my direct line. I have been told by other researchers he is not the father of James.
I do know through DNA testing WE DO NO connect to the PN Blackburns. Our Blackburn line believed to have moved with several families from Ulster Ireland NOT PROVEN...
I have land and wills from Frederick Co VA and Edward is not listed. I do have a lot of Blacburn men that I cannot connect ie brothers, cousins, etc. and all owned land served in the military in Frederick Co VA. [just started working on sorting out this bunch.]
David Rankin grandfather of Jane was born in Ireland and did live in Frederick Co VA next to the Blacburns. Jane's father David Jr married Hannah Province sister to Eleanor that married Samuel Blacburn.
If you have any additional information I would be glad to correspond with you you can contact me directly at
rootdigers@yahoo.com Barbara