How lucky you are, my John was married in 1811 to Peggy Hogg, I am not able to go back any further as the priest did not give enough details in the 1880's to fathom his parents, there are many John's born in that time period, but which one.is mine?
Their son John was bp 10 May 1812 in St. Matthews Doughlas. Their son James bp 26 May 1816 is my ancestor, he married Jane Cluas 19 Nov 1842.

Sorry I am not able to help you, any help I can get going back on my John Cowin would be appreciated.

Dave Cowin