Expert: Michael Troy - 7/16/2009

Question
I have been lucky enough to be able to trace my family back to my great-great-great grandfather, John Grasley, born 1795 in Devon England.  I contacted another individual who was also looking into the Grasley family and they say that there doesn't even seem to be any real proof that John ever came from or lived in Devon.  That's where it seems to end.  The trail just disappears.  I am unable to find anything further.  I do however, see various other spellings of my last name, some seem to originate from France (Greslet), another from Germany (Gräßle, or Grassle) and a multitude of other spellings of various origins (Greasley, Gresley, Grazeley...).
With all of these variations, it is seemingly impossible to go any further.  
Do you have any suggestions, ideas or information that may help me in this quest?

Answer
Hi Dan,

You may have trouble finding any records, especially if his family traveled to England from another country, or even another part of Britain.  Records from the 18th century are sparse.  Even if you find a record, it can be difficult to determine if it is the same person.

If you know his religion, your best bet might be to see if you can find a baptism record for him in Devon.  Unfortunately, these records are not usually online.  You often have to hire someone locally to research the church's paper records or make a trip there yourself.  Before taking that step, you can try an email directly to the church and see if someone there is willing to help.

If you can find the baptism record, you will have his parents, which can help with your continued research.

- Mike