For all of the Smith’s and Joneses out there, it is possible to conduct genealogy research without pulling out your hair. Yes, you will have to be more diligent, patient, and thorough than the Heimerdingers of the world however; it is possible to find where your family comes from, who you’re related to and your family’s role in history. Here’s what to do when you have a common last name.
Tip #1 Organization is key. If you’re collecting information on every single Smith in the world then you’re going to have quite a mess on your hands. As you weed through information, record it by date, type of information, family, family branch and so on.
Tip #2 When searching for a common surname when ever possible include a location for the name whether it’s a city, state or country and a time period. This will help narrow your results.
Tip #3 Add common genealogical terms to your search to eliminate non-genealogy results. This is particularly important when searching online or using reference materials. Genealogy terms include words like: family, genealogy, cemetery, wedding announcements and so on. Be specific.
Tip #4 Use any unique identifies to assist your search. For example, if your great great grandmother’s maiden name was Heimerdinger, staying consistent with the name used earlier, then you’re likely to find more specific results.
Tip #5 Does the common last name come from anywhere in particular? For example, the last name Smith may be an abbreviated name when a family immigrated from another country. It could also simply be the name assigned to them when they immigrated. Immigration officials are known for doing this if they couldn’t understand or spell a person’s last name. Additionally, some last names come from occupations, for example Blacksmith. If you know the origin of the last name, you may be able to narrow your results.
Tip #6 Pay attention to family names passed from generation to generation. Many cultures have the tradition of passing along family names. So John Smith’s son will also be John Smith or Robert John Smith if they have the tradition of making the child’s middle name the father’s first name. In some cultures families share the middle name and pass it down. Knowing this information can also help you narrow your search results.
The truth is, if you have a common last name, your genealogy research is going to be a bit more challenging. Consider using a professional to help you get started or if you run into a roadblock and need help. Steer clear of the online services which promise to create a family tree for you as they’re typically full of errors and incomplete. Whether your last name is Smith, Miller, Jones or other common surname or it’s Papadapolis, building a family tree is an interesting and rewarding process. Don’t let an obstacle like a common last name stop you from receiving the benefits.
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