Here's some clues to naming patterns in some of our early ancestors.... they don't always prove correct...but many times are. ======================= But our Ancestors followed a naming pattern. Keeping this in mind can perhaps help solve some problems in research. NAMING PATTERN: 1st son = Named after the father's father 2nd son = Names after the mother's father 3rd son = Named after the father 4th son = Named after the father's oldest brother 5th son = Named after the father's second oldest brother 1st dau = Named after the mother's mother 2nd dau = Named after the father's mother 3rd dau = Named after the mother 4th dau = Named after the mother's oldest sister 5th dau = Named after the mother's second oldest sister ALSO: The Mother's Maiden name was used as a second name, probably the second son. The Surnames of Close Friends or In-Laws were often used as well. If a child died, the next child born after the death could possibly receive the name of the deceased child. A baby could also be given the name of a recently deceased relative or friend. As with anything there are exceptions to the above list. Religion or nationality can affect the choice of names. Virginia Crilley