In my search of microfilms from different areas of Switzerland, I often find "illegitimate" children. I have been told that if the father recognized the child as his, the child would be allowed to bear the father's last name. But if not, then the child went by the mother's last name. I am wondering how these children were treated in earlier days in Switzerland, and how their mothers were treated. Was there a stigma? Were they accepted in the local community? I one case that I recall, the baptism record listed the aunts and uncles of the child as godparents. This would seem to indicate that the family was supportive. Or maybe they were just making sure the errant mother had her child baptized. I would appreciate any insight into this that anyone can provide. Thanks, "rwalker"