This came through on one of my other lists. While I am sure it is not as ironclad as they make it appear, it is probably a good general rule to which we should take notice. Linda << The following is from a Minnesota Genealogical Newsletter. "In the lower left corner of most old deeds you will find two to four witnesses. The first one is always from the husband's side, the next two from the wife's side. That is to protect her one-half dower rights under the law - Nothing you will ever use will give greater clues to maiden names." >>