Dear list, My possible ancestor Rudolf Schinz (died 1556) from Oberrieden, ZH, is mentioned as "Söldner und Schiffmann" in the work "Zürcher Familiennamen" (ZF). Does the term "Söldner" necessarily translate to "mercenary" -- a hired soldier in *foreign service*? ZF says Rudolf was wounded at Marignano and Kappel. I gather these are locations of historical battles. The designation "Schiffmann" is not listed in any of my German dictionaries. It seems to be a nautical occupation. If somebody knows an English equivalent to the word in question, I would love to hear it. With regards Kjell Ove Hattrem