Hello John, My ancestors who lived in Knebworth, Hertfordshire, were Dardes until about 1700 when they changed to Deards. I don't think the family were huguenots as I think there was a reference to the family in the 1300s in Cambridgeshire. The name may be from D'Ardes or have no french connection at all, perhaps Dardes was a norse name or lost place in England? I would be happy to exchange information about the Deards, I have a few wills etc. Regards, Will _________________________________________________________________ Express yourself with cool emoticons - download MSN Messenger today! http://www.msn.co.uk/messenger