Lay out the sources you have, and make sure you are not including assumptions. Check the Actual Document. If we are looking at a published extract, transcription, index, or database, get a copy of the original document. Mistakes happen, and it s entirely possible that the original will clear up any confusion. Sure It s the Right Guy.
Stories abound of people who spend a lot of time researching the wrong person.
Since our friend Tom's family was also listed in the censuses, we can compare the entries to see if it is the same family. Some of his children's listed ages were corroborated with the names on the gravestone in the family plot, and with other sources. Double-check the records you are using. Read the document carefully to make sure you are interpreting the information correctly. Analyze the Source.