How do you index the surname of a widow?

AndLinda

US—City and Business Directories, 1749–1990 [Part B][MS28-33Z] On the second name in the list it has Flenr Mary, wid Herman. I am assuming that she is widowed and her husband is Herman. I know I index Herman, but should I put his surname as Flenr?

0411

No. We are asked to NOT assume surnames. We index what we see. The same thing applies for a female spouse index her given name and please do not assume her surname would be the same. This is a common error and Thank you for asking. You can also find more information in the project in the projects opening pop up, field helps and project instructions.