Although most researchers hold that John Bowden's father was William Bowden, who died in 1834 in
Maury County, Tennessee, there are too many conflicting issues regarding John and William's
relationship.  Most importantly, John Bowden was not involved in William Bowden's estate.  Second,
James Bowden, when applying for William's pension, states that he is the sole surviving son of
William.  Last, the Rev. J. J. Bowden , when writing his autobiography, does not mention William's
name, though he would certainly have known it since William was still alive when J. J. was alive.