My original PAF database contained data that have been "in the family" for as long as anyone can remember.  There were a few additions that had been made to the database in recent years, particularly on the Patch line.  However, the database contained numerous inconsistencies that I felt were a problem.  In order to make the database more accurate and to put my own mind at ease about its accuracy, I decided that it was best to identify and look at as many original sources as possible.

This first thing I did was to create a working file that contained only ten generations of my ancestors.  I printed all family group sheets (with notes) and separated these into sixteen file folders, corresponding to my sixteen great-grandparents.  I then began looking at original records (such as parish registers and censuses) to find every event listed on each family group sheet.  When I find an event, I indicate the source on the family group sheet so it can be entered into the database.  As I look though the records, I also watch for events that are recorded incorrectly and events or people that are missing from my database.  These are also added to the file.  I have found several significant corrections to the database (including some missing people and children assigned to wrong marriages), but overall, I've been quite pleased with the completeness and accuracy of the database.  If I am unable to find an event or if I have to make any assumptions, these facts are noted in the "notes" portion of the database so I will be able to remember later what I did.  I also record events for other families with the same surname(s) so I'll have that information for future work if necessary.

I'm now well over half done with this project.  When I finish this stage of the project, I'll expand my search to look at ancestors who are more than ten generations removed.  In this way, I'll have a robust dataset to work from in the future.  My goal is to find the truth, not to have a large database.

E-mail me if you want to know specifics about this project or if you want a gedcom of any of the data.  I will distribute a CD containing the updated/corrected data to closely related family members when the project is completed.  I also plan to submit the data to the LDS Pedigree Resource File.  Source citations and notes will definitely be included in these files.

To download a gedcom file containing the entire Monk and Belmont database, click here.