For most of American history, people could change their names or alter the spelling of their names relatively easily–without going to court. Among the places where you may find evidence of those name changes are probate and pension records. The court may notice that deeds of property acquisition do not quite match with the name of the deceased. Pension application examiners may notice that the name at marriage does not match the name on the application. There may be affidavits about the name differences in the record, or a judge or clerk may make some notation about it.
A cousin was married in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1911 and apparently became estranged from his wife approximately fifteen years later. Obituaries, death certificates, census, and other records were used to piece together their life. But many of these records omitted certain details or details that were incorrect. It was not until I located more records that a more complete picture emerged and I was able to see which records contained details that were incorrect. One marriage record? One obituary? That makes it difficult to compare, contrast, and see what appears to be the most reasonable situation. The more records you get the easier it is to get a complete picture. Learn more about my how-to newsletter Casefile Clues or our webinar specials!
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