Q. I have just completed Volume I of my family tree, which goes back to 1800. During my research I came across several slave names (first names only) and their slave master's name, who were in the same group of slaves as my ancestors. In 1850, these slaves were in Alabama but the history for many of them, as my ancestors, goes back to Virginia. How can I list these names in your database? Can I include my name as a reference? Also, I would like to include my ancestors who were born prior to 1865.

A. How to show slave names in RootsWeb's WorldConnect family tree program where there is only a given name and no surname largely depends on the genealogy software program you are using. For example, Family Tree Maker uses a double slash \\ following the given name to reflect the fact that there is no last name. Consult the manual or help file for your genealogy program for the suggested method for the program if you are using a program other than Family Tree Maker.

You would then use your Notes to give any other information you like, such as your name and the slave master information. When you create a GEDCOM, the GEDCOM includes the data exactly as shown in your genealogy file. WorldConnect in turn displays the data found in the GEDCOM.

See RootsWeb Guide 3, Using Technology: Software and GEDCOMs at
http://rwguide.rootsweb.com/~rwguide/lesson3.htm and
RootsWeb Guide 25: African American, Native American, et. at
http://www.rootsweb.com/~rwguide/lesson25.htm

Return to WorldConnect Tips