Early immigrants came for many reasons, including religious, seeking adventure, a better life or they were sent here as a penalty for a crime.

Surnames began in Europe about the 11th century. They developed as trade increased. The four basic groups of surnames are the patronymic (based on the father's name), landscape features or place names, action or nicknames, and occupational or office names.

Don't assume that all children listed in the census belong to the wife listed. This may be a second wife and the children a combination of "his and hers".