If information from two or more records is inconsistent, and even when it isn’t, ask yourself, “which items am I really certain are actually about my ancestor?” Is there a deed that might not be his? Is there a census enumeration (especially before 1850) that might actually be for someone else? Am I using someone else’s conclusion that these two records are for the same person when they might not be?
Consider each source or record you think refers to your ancestor and contemplate what really makes you think that. Actually write down your reasons.
You might realize that there is a record or two that might not really be for the person you are researching.
And that may be causing your confusion.
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