Hi! I think these differences come fromt he fact that in earlier times few people were able to read. The clerk wrote what he or she thought they heard. In researching the Wood line I find both spellings within what I know is the same family. I guess we have to rely on land records and the like to distinguish between families and individuals. One particular document related to the Wood family of Bedford, Virginia spelled an individual's name Purnall, Purnal, Pernall. I have also seen his name spelled Purnell and Pernell. I am still looking for connections with Jeremiah Wood who married Elizabeth Stanley in Halifax Co., Va, and who was possibly forn in Pittsylvania Co., Va., and lived in Patrick Co., Va. at one time. He and his family moved in 1831 to Jackson County, Missouri. This Jeremiah should not be confused with Jeremiah of Bedford as they are definitely not the same person. Thanks for any help you might be able to give me. Dorothy