BIOGRAPHY: Edward's last name is actually found as Howchens. The book "History of the Houchin Family in the United States" by Dr. Paul C. Houchen states this about Edward:
"Edward Howchens is the first of the name found in Virginia records, and it is from him that most of the Houchins in the country are descended. It is not known when he came to America, but in 1686 he was living in New Kent county, Virginia, a parishioner of St. Peters Parish." It continues "The original register of St. Peters Parish is in the Virginia Theological Seminary at Alexandria, Va., and contains the names of Edward Howchens and his wife, Rebecca. The records of New Kent county were burned in 1866 and with their loss was also lost all further record of Edward Howchens and family."
CHILDREN: Edward's children Charles and Rachel were christened in St. Peter's Parish, New Kent county, Virginia. However, there is no christening record for a child Edward. Therefore, it cannot be stated for sure that Edward Jr. is his son. However, based on the marriage record for his son Francis (who was married in St. Peter's Parish) and the dates of marriage of his other children, it is a good estimate that Edward Jr. is the son of the first Edward Howchens.
CHILDREN: IGI Virginia documents christening of Charles Howchens 17 April 1690 in New Kent county, St. Peter's Parish, son of Edward and Rebecca Howchens.
IGI Virginia documents christening of Rachel Howchens 24 October 1686 in New Kent county, St. Peter's Parish, son of Edward and Rebecca Howchens.
MARRIAGE: The original register of St. Peter's Parish, New Kent county, Virginia, now in the Virginia Theological Seminary at Alexandria, contains the names of Edward Howchens and his wife, Rebecca.
BIRTH: His birth is simply my estimate based on the christening date of his daughter Rachel.
