Census records [1850-1940] can be a big help in identifying where family members were born, provided they [or the person providing the data] gave the correct place. I have seen two or three different birthplaces given for an individual in the census. The goal then becomes finding a record that verifies the correct birthplace.
Trying to locate records for earlier ancestors, those who died before 1850, can be a challenge. 1880-1930 censuses can help, if the enumerator gets the accurate information. Parents' birthplaces are given for those censuses. The same fallacy can occur as with 1850-1870. What if John Williams doesn't know for sure where his parents were born? Foreign born locations can be specific or general.
My ancestors born in Baden also gave Germany as place of birth.
Look for records [deeds, wills, taxes, etc.] that place a family member in a certain place at a certain time. If you have a family with 5 children born between 1770 and 1780, deeds and other records can narrow the kids' birthplaces.
John Williams buys land in Bucks Co., PA in 1769, 1772 and 1773. He sells the land in 1774. He then buys land in Frederick Co, VA in 1776. John's will is recorded there in 1788. Williams has the following children: John Jr. [b. 1768], Sarah [b. 1770], Ann [b. 1772], Samuel [b. 1775], Mary [b. 1777] and Joseph [b. 1779].
Deeds show him in Bucks Co. from 1769-1774 and Frederick Co. from 1776-1788. Sarah and Ann were probably born in Bucks Co.; while Mary and Joseph were born in Frederick Co. The 1769 deed may tell where John had lived prior to 1769, giving you John Jr.'s birthplace. As for Samuel? He may have been born in Bucks Co. or on the trip to Virginia. Keep digging!
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