Genealogy Chat

Re Cornish Surname Register

Hi, I've just found on the Cornish Surname Index that someone is researching one of my direct lines. Am wondering whether to email them, what I should put and what happens then. Are they just name collectors, or are they doing genuine research? I contacted somone recently regarding my father's maternal family line, and had a very short abrupt reply back along the lines of 'do you not know the black hole that is England, and have you tried the Mormon site?' I didn't even want any information from him, just thought it would be nice to contact a living descendent. This from someone who has a website and email address asking for enquiries! Hope I'm not related to him!! This put me off somewhat. Can anyone advise please? Many thanks in advance. Bex

It wouldn't hurt to ask Bex, just be wary about giving out any of your info without confirming the connection first. That first contact sounds a right b******, don't let him put you off. Sue

Hi Bex, I have contacted a couple of people from surname lists and one-name-studies and have received lots of useful information from them, and been able to send them some information as well. I just sent an e-mail telling them where I found their e-mail address, what my connection is to the name, and asking whether they have any more info. Good luck! Sarah

Go for it! I have a lot of info on Mocock - I have them in my tree and have gathered a lot of stuff about other Mococks as I am sure they are all linked back there somewhere. I'm always happy if anyone asks me about them ... So - contact them. Jill

Go for it! Like you I was very 'nervous' about contacting someone on the GOONS site but I am glad I did..... They not only gave me info but I was also able to give them some too including copies of certificates and parish record entries. Someone doing a one name study can't possibly afford to buy all the certificates so it was good to be able to give something back in return. I think the GOONS are different to general interest boards though as in that they are required to answer direct requests for information. Good luck. Chris

Many many thanks everyone for your advice. Am going to send them an email right now! As you say, I have nothing to lose and possibly a lot to gain. Have traced the line back to 1810, so at least they won't feel like I'm trying to get information from them without being able to give anything back. It would just be lovely to be in contact with someone researching the same line. And yes, if I get a blunt email back I will sneer at it, delete it and move on. lol. Thanks again to you all, Bex

Sounds great...go for it! What is GOONS by the way?

I think it's the Guild of One Name Studies Mandy. Right, the email has been sent. Finger's crossed :) Thanks again everyone Bex

Oooh thanks, sounds like something I ought to look at! Good look with your contact!