Analyzing an associate network and an indirect evidence network to discover Martha "Patsy" (McNabb) Wynkoop"s father and to explore his pedigree

Abstract

Discovering who an ancestor or research subject associated with can lead to genealogical relatives and a better understanding of the research subject. Genealogists can learn from informal business organization networks to navigate a genealogical associate network. There may also be a network of interrelated evidence, especially of indirect evidence. Research that combines associate network analysis and evidence network analysis may be useful in solving difficult genealogical problems. Applying associate network and evidence network methodologies, as well as the Genealogical Proof Standard, this article uses indirect evidence to discover the father of Martha "Patsy" (McNabb) Wynkoop. The two candidates, James and William McNabb, both living in Loudoun County at the time of Martha"s birth, are discussed. Research on James" associates enables backtracking an associate network to Chester County, Pennsylvania. Three Loudoun County William McNabbs are identified and separated. After discussing conflicting information, Martha McNabb"s father is identified as James. Data gathered during the search help identify his father and grandfather.