The first set of records we suggest that beginners use is the census and we try to stress using different combinations of names, initials, spellings, etc. The experience of one of our new members this year illustrates perfectly why!
Diane had trouble finding her grandfather in the 1940 census. When she finally located the family, she discovered he was listed by his initials. Even knowing that, it was almost impossible to find him in 1930 because the indexer had misread the last name as "Past" instead of "Post."
Once Diane had this second clue, she was able to trace the family back through the census years. Here's her elusive grandfather in five censuses!
1940: C. B. Post
1930: Charles B. "Past"
1920: C. Bernard Post
1910: Charles B. Post
1900: Bernard C. "Past"
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