Dear Deidre,

I have no idea if this has any connection with your family, but just in case...

Southwestern Christian Advocate (New Orleans, LA), May 27, 1880, from the "Lost Friends" column:

DEAR EDITOR - I wish to inquire for my husband, George Washington Stepto. He belonged to Dr. McFarlin, of New Orleans. When we were separated, about 34 years ago, we had a daughter, Mary E. Stepto, who is now with me. Any information of him will be thankfully received. Address me at Pittsfield, Texas, in care of Rev. A.C. Culbreath.
- CRECY STEPTO