When you uncover a new surname in your research, ask yourself:
How else could this name be pronounced other than the “way” I think it should be;
What letters in this name could be read incorrectly by someone making an index;
What letters in this name often look like other letters;
How common is this name in the area where I’m searching;
Does the name provide any clues as to origin or ethnicity of this person;
What have I assumed about this name that might not be true?
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