My 2nd Great grandparents, William Ford (abt 1828-abt 1858) and Lorinda Jane Goodwin (abt 1836-abt 1856) both disappeared from the records in the mid-1850's, leaving their children behind with relatives. Did they die in an epidemic or go to the Gold Rush to make their fortune?
William Ford was born in New York state and his wife Lorinda Jane Goodwin was possibly born in Canada. They were married in 1852 in Austin, Sanilac, Michigan. They had two known children, William A., b.1852 to 1858 in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and Julia, b.abt 1856, who also disappeared from record.
Any help would be appreciated.