Refers to the systematic application of letters, numbers or a combination of both to create unique identifiers for each of your ancestors or descendants. Numbering systems are particularly helpful if you have names in your tree that are repetitive (such as multiple John Smiths, etc.)
This tag should be used to refer to questions about genealogical numbering systems such as: Ahnentafel Numbers, d'Aboville Numbers, Henry Numbers, the Register System, the Ancestral Lines Pairing System, the Dollarhide System, the NGSQ System, et al.
Genealogical numbering systems may be ascending or descending. They can assist in organizing your records and facilitate the quick identification of ancestors and descendants.
Description of Types of Numbering Systems
Ahnentafel is a German word meaning "ancestor table." The system is easy to use and gives each ancestor an identification number. In this system, fathers are even numbers and mothers are odd numbers. To find a father's number, double the child's number. You are #1, so your father is #2 and his father is #4. To find a mother's number, add one to the father's number. You are #1; your mother is #3. Her father is #6 (3x2) and her mother is #7.
Source: Unpuzzling Your Past 4th edition, by Emily Anne Croom, c2001, Betterway Books, Cincinnati.
The Register System is an example of a descending numbering system that uses both common numerals (1, 2, 3, 4) and Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, iv). The system is organized by generation, i.e., generations are grouped separately. See visual example here.
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