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November 2005

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From:
Paul Drake <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Paul Drake <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 7 Nov 2005 08:49:31 -0600
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For consideration along with the fine article mentioned by Mr. Tarter, it should be remembered by all that the several number formulas from which one is supposed to be able to calculate birth dates from headstone inscriptions giving ages in days, months, and years do NOT work with precision if the decedent was born before Sept 14, 1752.  

So, those who desire to know a precise birthday of an ancestor must compensate for the removal of the 12 days that took place on that date. 

As that article observes, the differences are of little moment to the casual researcher or writer. Still, it is interesting, however, that were one to ask George Washington's mother when he was born, she would say that the date was Feb. 22, 1731, yet our history books give that birth year as 1732.
 
    Paul Drake JD
 Genealogist & Author
<www.DrakesBooks.com>
     931-484-9129

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