Naming Customs & Traditions
Don't know a person's first name? Need assistance searching for your ancestors? Try using the naming customs & traditions that were prevalent early in U.S. history.
Study the patterns below and use this technique to assist in your research. Remember, these are only guidelines - just another tool to help Trace Your Roots.
1st son = father’s father 2nd son = mother’s father 3rd son = father 4th son = father’s oldest brother 5th son = father’s 2nd oldest brother or mother’s oldest brother
1st daughter = mother’s mother 2nd daughter = father’s mother 3rd daughter = mother 4th daughter = mother’s oldest sister 5th daughter = mother’s 2nd oldest sister or father’s oldest sister | 
