Deeds can be another hiding place for female ancestors. When a tract of land was sold, the wife generally had to relinquish her dower right. If so, her was included in the deed. Chances are you won't find a maiden name given, but there may be clues. Look at the names given in the deed, purchaser, neighbors, witnesses. Find out who these people are. If the word "kinsman" is used, you may be on to something. Kinsman could refer to a member of the wife's family. Witnesses could be relatives as well.
There is also the chance that the wife's maiden name could make it into the deed. If the land being sold or purchased was part of the wife's inheritance, you might find her father's name mentioned. If the land is being sold to, say, the wife's brother, that relationship may be given in the deed.
If there are any marginal notes on the page of the deed, read them! You never know what might be there. The clerk may have made a reference to the spouse's maiden name. Another family event may be scribbled into the margin. The wife's birth date may be there along with names of her parents. Paper was at a premium!
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