Does anyone have any recommendations on the best way to record the name one normally used when it was not the first given name.

Example : John Joseph Michael Smith.

but where the individual was known as Michael, not John.

I have lots of ancestors who were given multiple names at baptism/christening, but didn't use the first one in day to day. In fact, in many of those cases, subsequent documents such as marriage and death only used the habitually used name, e.g. Michael Smith.

Thanks.......Paul

Paul,

This is where the AKA field comes in. (Also Known As).

Since you didn't provide what version you are using, I can't tell you exactly where it is, but it is usually one of the FACTs.

Russ

Thanks Russ,

I am using FTM 2006 V16.

I was aware of the AKA field, but was hoping to use something that showed up right in the family view. (using bold font would be nice, doesn't seem to be an option).

I have used AKA in other situations, but more for 'secondary names' that are not the legal name. E.G. Buddy.

Paul

Paul,

You can do what you want to do. But, the AKA field is what you are asking about.

I do not go by my first name, I have my AKA in the AKA (Russ) in my Family File.

Russ