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What spelling of a Surname to use?

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+++DetEcTive+++

+++DetEcTive+++ Report 29 Nov 2011 10:19

I tend to record them with the spelling most used in their own era, although you would have to be open minded and manually enter variations or 'wild-card' versions to search.

If the family separated or moved to other geographical regions, you may find that the name spelling evolved differently.

Researching:
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Margaret

Margaret Report 28 Nov 2011 20:12

Hi,

I'm researching a family from County Antrim going back to the 18thc.

The family name is initially recorded as "Faries/Faires" it then changes the "Ferres" and in more recent times the spelling is "Ferris".

I've recorded the family on my tree with the spellings recorded on contemporary documentation. Is this the best approach to maximize matches? Would it be more advantageous to use the modern spelling.

Any advice much appreciated.

Many thanks,

Margaret