Finding too many deeds for too little time when researching your ancestor at the county courthouse? When time is limited, the “etal” deeds should be high on your priority list. “Etal” means “and others,” meaning that at least one person besides your ancestor is listed on the deed. These deeds have a better than average chance of involving a spouse or an inheritance.<\/p>\n
And if you only get time to look at the “etal” deeds, make a note to that effect in your research log. That way you will know what you have (and have not) done.<\/p>\n