The launch of my 2020 series on surnames has begun in Family Tree Magazine, March issue and on sale now.

This article four page article, How to Start a One-Name Study is demonstrating the starting of a study and setting the scene. I selected the surname of DWERRYHOUSE and have commenced the building of that study. We focus on choosing a surname, registering the name with the Guild, getting a feel for the origins of a surname. We chat about the global aspect and keeping study material organised. We conclude with final reading.

I also do a step by step guide to search and download the results from FreeBMD. Even if you are a reader living outside of the UK and researching a non-British surname, it would be relevant to search FreeBMD and gather the material, to work upon at some point.

I also share that a One-Name study is not a Olympic race, it is more akin to a gentle stroll in a park – a study evolves over time.

My final comment is this header picture, which will change each quarter, hopefully reflective of the evolution of a study.

Family Tree Magazine is available in paper and digital format from the magazine.

In the June issue we look at growing a One-Name Study.