Names
Introduction to Names
Specific examples and additional information on the following can be found throughout this section and can be accessed from the sub menu on the right of the screen. An individual's name might be spelled two, three, or more different ways within the same document. A family surname may be spelled differently within a given set of records or various records such as school, church, and census. The same holds true for place names. SOUNDEX and GOOGLE for variants, derivatives and nicknames are invaluable tools for this type of research. Try creative spelling The Irish Times online is handy for finding surname origins and meanings . A few of the many reasons for the varied spelling include: literacy, the dialect of a census taker (how they heard the name), Anglicization, old English eg. ff, and human error.... If the surname on a ship manifest was shortened (a prefix or suffix dropped) it was most likely because the emigrant gave it in this way (again for various reasons including the notion of increasing ones chances for employment). First names and surnames may be found in abbreviated form, especially in old parish and land records. For example, Thomas abbreviated as Thos. Some elusive ancestors may be hidden by nicknames or pet names (aliases) bearing no resemblance to the given name; or by first names that are non gender specific or commonly assumed to be for the opposite sex. In some instances, Confirmation names were used as a middle initial if not given a middle name at baptism. The preference to use a middle name instead of a first name must also be taken into account. Sometimes the mother's maiden name was preserved through the child's middle name. The time frame and location come into play regarding language (Latin, Gaelic, English, etc), and with forenames the naming pattern for Irish, Scottish, early American settlers, (or appropriate country for your research) In the 19th century children were often named after famous people; saints, kings, queens. A child may be named after a midwife, or a friend. Irish or Celtic names are becoming increasingly popular in the United States with some choosing first or middle names that sound more like surnames eg McKenzie as seen on TV - also in practice is to borrow the name of a soap star ;-) Genevieve Price 04/02/2007
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