The Payton Genealogy and Family Tree Page

The Payton Family Tree

It is quite possible that someone else has already performed work on a Payton family tree, so be sure to examine some of the sources listed below carefully. Have you struck a Payton brick wall? Read "Genealogy's Most Popular Disbeliefs" for some helpful advice.

Best Tree Collections for Discovering Payton Ancestors

Payton Genealogy

Keep an open mind when searching through Payton records. Years ago many people were unable to read and write, thus a given ancestor's name could be spelled in a variety of ways depending on who recorded it. If you want to know How can city directories be used to help my Payton research?, then read this frequently asked question.

Top Five Genealogy Databases to Search for Payton

Historical newspapers give us the ability to discover ancestral history through eyewitness accounts. There are currently matching Payton records at Ancestry.com! Start exploring this online Payton family history resource today.

Death Records

Military Records

Origins of the Payton Surname

There are no clear, concise answers to why or how one of your Payton ancestors took on the surname. It may have been based on their occupation or a distinguising physical trait. Keep in mind that it was not unusual for a last name to be altered as an ancestor entered a new country.

Payton DNA Projects

DNA testing for genealogy continues to improve. If you had some of your Payton relatives tested several years ago, it may be worthwhile to have them retested. Likewise, as DNA testing companies have gathered more results and samples, you may be able to find more matches if you search again with your test results. If you're not sure how DNA testing could aid your Payton research, read "Basics of DNA Family History Research".

Payton Family History

For most people, just about every aspect of their life has been influenced in some way by their ancestors. Look beyond the names and dates to understand how and why your Payton ancestors lived and strived to make a better life for their descendants. Our team of seasoned experts are here to help you learn about different aspects of genealogy. Reading "Learning About Women - The Invisible Ancestors" may help you think of some different tactics to compiling your Payton family history.

Photo Collections

Networking with Payton Researchers

When digging deeper into your ancestor's occupation, a great way to connect with others of a similar interest -- many who might have detailed information, is by posting a message board query giving clear information as to your ancestor's name and the specific occupation or organization, in time and place. The article "The Art of Posting Queries" provides some valuable tips for posting successful Payton queries.

Payton Achievements & Celebrities

Did you know that Payton was the 1239th most popular surname in the 1990 census of the United States?

Web Sites & Blogs with Payton Research

If you are having difficulty locating records for the last name of Payton, contact the folks at ProGenealogists for a free research estimate. You may also find it helpful to read, "When, Why and How to Hire a Professional Genealogist."

RootsWeb search of US Naturalization Records
RootsWeb search of Obituary Daily Times
RootsWeb search of Social Security Death Index

Upcoming Payton Family Reunions

Whenever possible, consider holding the family reunion in place where you have a strong Payton family history, which provides opportunities to share stories and visit cemeteries or old home sites; you may even want to consider as a one-day activity, having each family take on the task of gathering information from the local courthouse, school district, public library, etc. -- this, of course, requires advance planning and assignment, but could generate considerable interest and results. The article "A Great Way to Unite a Newly-Found Family" may provide you with tips for hosting a successful Payton reunion.

See Also

Bayton   Paydon   Peyton   Payto