Hi there,
I was fascinated to read your message as I browsed for McDowall results on Google.

My maiden name is McDowall (I married an Earnshaw 6 years ago). I grew up in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland but my father's father, John McDowall. was born and grew up in Creetown (he was born in 1906). We often go down to Creetown for a visit (it's v v quiet now!). Anyway, I'd love to hear from you - we might be related! Am always keen to hear from other McDowalls from Creetown, Dumfries & Galloway!