Napa Valley Genealogical Society

What Origin Is My Last Name? How to Trace Your Surname’s History and Meaning

Read the article on the GenealogyBank blog: rb.gy/qztv7f

Learn how to trace your surname’s background, identify family roots, and use historical records to understand the story behind your family name.

Photo: old photos and correspondence.

REVOLUTIONARY WAR PENSION TIPS: If you can't find your ancestor's pension record, consider these three things. 1- Check alternative spellings. Spelling was not always so standardized. For example, McKissick may appear as M'Kissick. 2- Try a different state. Even if he lived in Virginia, he may have served from Pennsylvania. 3- Remember, it wasn't until 1832 that ALL veterans received a pension. (Before this, various pension laws entitled some veterans to apply). If your ancestor passed away before 1832, he may not have applied for a pension.

Watch for more Revolutionary War pension tips and explore our new full-text search pension records here: https://f3.social/6y0i

❌ marks the spot, or in this case, the person who provided the info in the 1940 and 1950 Census.

Tip: Identify the Informant
In the 1940 & 1950 Census, look for an X in a circle next to a name. This identifies who provided the info. Knowing who answered may explain potential errors.