Recipe #4 --- Using Soundex --- cont. No matter how long a name is, it's Soundex Code is always the first letter of the name and 3 numbers. In a long name, the extra letters are disregarded. For example: If you are coding the name WASHINGTON, you would slash out A H I and O. The code would be W followed by the numbers for S N and G. The T and final N would be disregarded. The code is W252. If the name is short, you will have to add zeros to the end. For example: If you are coding the name KUHN, you would cross out the U and H. That leaves only K and N. The code would be K500. If you are coding a name with a prefix, such as Van, Von, De, Di, Le, etc., you should code it both with and without the prefix because it may be listed under either code. This seems to be inconsistent. Mac and Mc are not considered to be prefixes so you would always code with them. In names with double letters, you TREAT THE DOUBLE LETTER AS ONE and slash the second one out. In names with letters side by side that have the same number on the Soundexing Code, you TREAT THE LETTERS AS ONE and slash the others out. For example: In the name JACKSON, C and K and S all have the same code number. Use only the C and cross the other two out--as well as the A and the O. The code would be J250. ONCE THE NAME IS CORRECTLY CODED, you are ready to use the microfilm Soundex Card Index, which is organized by state. Look, first, under the correct state, then find the correct code number. The names will be arranged alphabetically by first name or initial. You will need to review the microfilmed cards for all the persons with the first name you are looking for to find your ancestor. Once you have found the correct card, copy down the following information: Name of Head of Family County and State of Residence Vol. # E.D. # (Enumeration District) Sheet # Line # With this information, you will be able to easily locate the entry on the census film. This will save much precious time. Otherwise, you would have to search the entire county or township (if it is known). Helpful Hint: Code all your surnames at home and keep the list with you. This way you won't have to keep re-coding them each time you do census research. Happy Hunting, Cookies!