Oh! You know, it's funny because I have seen it listed in one record as Alexander John Stephens, and in 95 % of the others, John Alexander or John A. I know his children; born cir mid 1800 to 1860's all had numerous middle names. I appreciate your reply! Brenda J Scott -----Original Message----- From: michael helm [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, June 16, 2005 2:05 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: [VALOUDOU-L] Middle names Just shooting from the hip ... I can't think of a single person from the 17th or 18th century in my families, who has a confirmed middle name. I can't even think of anyone with a hidden middle name eg William P Lastname: no use of initials. For example, in the Helm family espec. in Frederick Co, where there numerous Williams, Thomases, Merediths &c it's very difficult to separate them in the legal system and land records. You'd think that if they had middle names or initials, they would have used them, or the courts would have required it of them. Instead they struggle with Jnr and Snr (whose senior to whom? How many diff't Jnrs can there be &c). In the 19th century middle names are everywhere and we often see people using a middle name, switching the order, or switching back and forth! ==== VALOUDOU Mailing List ==== The First Sunday in each month will set aside for a "Brick Wall" Roll Call. Please always put the surname you seek in the subject and tell us something about your Brick Wall person.