Hello:

Can anyone tell my why a English woman circa 1600 would be known as (for example) "Mary Smith alias Jones"?

Would it indicate a married name versus maiden name?
Or father's versus stepfather's surname?

I also believe I read somewhere that the English would often adopt an alias if they inherited property that had a name?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks
Patti Metsch
pmetsch@bellsouth.net