Are Parent Surnames Included? South Africa Parish Baptismal Index

Mary Rice

Please advise if Parent Surnames should be entered since Child's Surname is on the same line?

[M3GM-G31]

LarryClark43

I would include the parents surname as they are indexed under the name on that line.

again that is just my opinion.

If you add those in you would be ready to submit the batch

MinnWisRoots

@Mary Rice

Can you check the Previous Images pages for any headings at the top of the page to see if they mention the surname. The general rule of indexing is to only include what is written.

Do not assume the surname of an individual based on the surname of someone else, such as a parent or a spouse, unless directed otherwise in the project instructions.

If you look at the Project Instructions, How to Index a Baptism Register, the headings have the child's Christian name only and the Parent's name as Christian and Surname. That is common with some of the birth records as well.

You also might run into the additional issue of race when it comes to surnames in South African records. Those of Asian Indian heritage have a different naming system, and many don't have a surname or use the given name of the father as a middle name or surname.