Hello to another Robert Downie. I'm not really a genealogist, but have taken some interest in where the Downies came from and where they went to. Those that went to the New World seem to have gone in several phases. The Highland Clearances caused one lot to go to Canada mostly. Before that, those who'd been on the losing side at Culloden (1745) mostly went to Wilmington, Carolina. They were mostly on the wrong side again during the American Revolution (War of Independence) and moved up to Canada as a result. After independence, Australia became the favoured escape, you can't move for them there. Pashendale Ridge in Flanders is highly fertilised by whole families of Downie brothers from the 14-18 war and there are ones and twos from Benghazi to Berlin to Singapore from the 39-45 war. It's a faily rich seam you've struck. Good Luck. If I can help at all let me know. Robert Downie.