How do I index a name that I can't read?
US, Wisconsin—Death Records, 1933–1958 [Part A][M3MX-6SN] On image 2 I can't read the maiden name of the mother. How should it be indexed?
Best Answer
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Indexing: For names that are unreadable please use ctrl + u; it will mark the record Unreadable. Means there is something there but it can not be read.
For name that are blank please use ctrl + b; it will mark the record Blank. Means there is not any information entered in the field.
After it is submitted a reviewer can look at it.
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Answers
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The longer one indexes the easier it will be to decipher poor handwriting; however I have indexed and reviewed over 11,000 records and there are still cases that make me wonder if the writer ever attended school.
One trick is to find other examples of the letter you can't decipher in other words on the document to see if the letter in those words help you figure out what the letter really is. If those letters are written the same way as the letter(s) in the word you are having trouble with then you will probably will know what the letter is.
For names of places refer to the lists of counties and cities on the internet or refer to google maps. If you know the county but cant decipher the town, look on the lists or map to see if there is anything similar to what you are trying to read.
For names of individuals type possibilities for the given or surname in the internet and see if the name comes up showing others with that name. Some possible names may have no histories of people with that spelling but another spelling may be quite popular. This may give you some probabilities on what the name really is.
The last recommendation; and most important, is to pray before you begin indexing for guidance and assistance in deciphering words. The Lord knows the correct spelling of words - let the spirit guide you.
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