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Real last name???

Real last name???

Posted: 26 Dec 2014 4:48AM GMT
Classification: Query
Our last name was changed when my great grandparents came over from Italy. After hours of searching, I still can't find anything that tells me what our original last name is! Any tips, hints, or people who can help?

Re: Real last name???

Posted: 6 Jan 2015 2:43AM GMT
Classification: Query
If you can locate a naturalization file the original name is sometimes given.

Re: Real last name???

Posted: 12 Jan 2015 6:28AM GMT
Classification: Query
Why do you think it was changed? It is a myth that Ellis Island workers changed last names of those who enter the U.S. then. When they boarded a ship overseas then they are on the ship passenger lists as presented at Ellis Island or any other port of entry. So if it was changed it was either before they sailed or later after arriving. Do you know the year they came to the USA? Can you find your family in the US censuses under your present name? How far back?

Re: Real last name???

Posted: 25 Jun 2015 3:28AM GMT
Classification: Query
Here are a few suggestions:

1) Check obituary records and maybe social security death index

2) Try inputting a common or close English first name to replace the surname and especially the first name. Example: John for Johann and Fred for Fritz (of course, I'm predominantly German here). Maybe John or George could be used for Giuseppe for Italians.
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