Its a common problem Tony. The same forenames were used and reused over generations and consequently became very common in particular families. An additional problem with the Bells is that they were a very large clan in Dumfriesshire at one time. If you google "Bells of Middlebie" you will find many references. Neil On 25 Mar 2010 at 21:04, Tony Burton wrote: > Hello List, I'm a new boy to your list researching 4th Gt Grandparents, James Byers, b. Wamphray 1829 and Janet Bell b. Kirklandrigg, Dalton 1829. > > While researching Janet BELL I discovered, what to me is the amazing fact, that in the relatively short 8 year period from 1827 - 1834 there were no less than 22 different families named BELL in Dumfries-shire alone who all christened a daughter 'Janet'. And this does not, of course, take account of other BELL familys who may have christened a child by another name. Can anyone please assist me by providing an explanation for this very large preponderance of the surname BELL in this area? Best wishes to all, Tony. > *I a^m cl24ng my k*ey9b0$rd