Re: Joseph Binker 1828 NJ>PA>IL died about 1875
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In reply to:
Re: Joseph Binker 1828 NJ>PA>IL died about 1875
Eric Binker 4/16/04
Eric,
The difference in Elmer's middle initial is a common problem with errors in census data. The census is known for errors in names and their spellings, ages and even gender. But it is still a great tool for locating people. Always try to verify information found on the census using other sources.
I use several subscription sites to research from home Each has their strengths and weaknesses: Ancestry.com, Genealogy.com and I also use a Civil War site by Historical Data Systems. I think it is at www.civilwardata.com or something like that. These sites are in addition to several that are free which I use to find clues, such as the WorldGenWeb, GenForum and FamilySearch. Nothing can replace good old fashioned field work, however. Research from home can never yield the results of going to a state library, archives or county courthouse. Ordering pension files if they exist, can give you a great amount of information on a soldier's life, as they were required to list every marriage, where it took place, and it's ending, whether by death or divorce. Also, every place of residence since the time of mustering out, and any child and it's birthdate under the age of 16 at the time of application for a pension. Frequently this will include the entire family, especially if a soldier died while in service. These files and other records can be expensive, but there really is no way to research without paying for some things. If someone provides you with information from a death certificate, pension file or probate record, chances are that someone, somewhere, paid for that information. Networking is fine among researchers, but always try your best to verify whatever is shared with you of someone's "work", as there is a lot of swapping going on over the internet and a lot of it is just not correct. Hope this is helpful information for you; just some things I have learned over the past 25 years of researching. Have fun!
Regards,
Barb