Hello Charlotte, I am descended from the Coates the arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia from Yorkshire, England in 1772. The first Coates in this area was Thomas Coates. Over the span of many years Thomas had 2 wives and 15 children. Many Coates have settled in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Canada and many have, over the years resettled in the US, especially New England area. I would be happy to compare ad share the data I have. David A. Coates Charlotte, NC, USA