its good to use the original chain only.and maybe u can hardfork it lets say on block 8100(did remember the exact number of lastest block ) and make ur adjustments like diff and retarget time,etc.

i think this is a better solution.as for those who mined the 1999 blocks.they didnt put in much hashpower and they should have informed u what it will cause from the very begining.they can and should take the damage.