All indexes are not created equally. There can be differences. It is up to the user of an online database to determine what sort of index they are using. It could be: a complete everyname index–most online census indexes are compiled this way. it could be just an index to the “main person” on the record–some indexes to probate records are compiled this way, only containing the name of the deceased. it could be an index to selected names on the record–death certificate indexes that only index decedent and parents’ names (if given). Doctors, informants, undertakers (if mentioned) not always indexed selected pieces of data–sometimes they just extract whatever they want etc. Manually created indexes by record clerks may be different as well. Find out. Informed users are […]
Browsing takes time, but can lead to discoveries. Try and avoid just reading the specific item of interest. Indexes are wonderful, but sometimes being taken “right to the record” causes us to miss other potential items of interest. In handwritten court documents many names may not be indexed. Benjamin Hawkins witnessed a will recorded on the same page as his wife’s step-father’s estate inventory. It is a coincidence, but knowing additional associates of Benjamin is helpful, no matter how they were discovered. Genealogy Tip of the Day is proudly sponsored by GenealogyBank. Try their “GenealogyBank Search” and see what discoveries you make.
To celebrate the 4th of July as the 241st year of American independence, we are running a special discount. Through 11:59 PM Central Time on 4 July, we’re offering a 24.1% discount on any of our recorded webinars. Obviously a 241% discount wasn’t an option. The coupon code is: JULY42017 The code is not on the webinar page–don’t lose it. Enjoy! And have a happy 4th!
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