This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WmRVincent Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.kentucky.counties.grayson/9789.5/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Surname research is usually not a very efficient way of researching one particular family. This is especially true when researching a family with a common and widespread surname. The explosion of y-DNA studies has demonstrated an amazing diversity of origins for almost every family name. There can be obvious exceptions to this rule, for unusual surnames, or surnames that are common only in limited areas (regional surnames), where one can be fairly certain of some kinship. Even in these instances, surname research is best done only after all other avenues have been fully explored. Just some reflections in the wee hours of the morning. Bill V. ... Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.