Would I index this kind of name? US—City and Business Directories, 1749–1990 [Part B] [MSP6-73Q]
Hello, I am working on US—City and Business Directories, 1749–1990 [Part B][MSP6-73Q].
Would I index a name such as "Germain Fruit Co"? Could Germain be the last name of someone? The address is what follows the name of course, but I can't tell if Germain is just some other name or the last name of someone. What if I can't tell? What is the best practice to use then?
One more example: "Naud's Warehouse" (followed by address) is one I can't figure out. Could "Naud" be the last name of someone, and would I index it as "Naud" or "Naud's?"
This would be a BIG help if someone can help this fellow out. Thanks!!!
Best Answer
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I think you are always best to "over Index" rather than leave something out. So, I would definitely index the surnames of Germain and Naud.
I did do a quick search for Germain Fruit Company and learned the company was founded in Los Angeles by Eugene Germaine and G H Matfield on Sept 21 1874 and is still in business today as Germains Seed Technology.
Naud's Warehouse was founded in 1878 by Edward Naud. It was a granary, wool warehouse, and storage facility for valuables located on Spring Street in Los Angeles. It burned to the ground in 1915.
So, if you want to take the time and find out interesting trivia, you can search these places and sometimes find out the history. Or, you can take a chance, and if it looks like a surname, create a record.
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