Guild of One Name Studies is “the world’s leading organisation for one-name studies.”

“Family historians generally focus their efforts on researching their own family trees, collecting and analysing data in order to find as much detail as possible on every branch, twig or tiny leaf. Others compile surname studies, which seek all occurrences, past and present, of a single surname, anywhere in the world.

“A one-name (or surname) study is a project researching all occurrences of a surname, as opposed to a particular pedigree (ancestors of one person) or descendancy (descendants of one person or couple). Some ‘one-namers’ restrict their research geographically, perhaps to one country, but true one-namers collect all occurrences worldwide.”

“The Guild welcomes members who have an interest in one-name studies. It is not necessary to register a study name in order to join.

“The joining subscription is on a sliding scale, depending on the month of application, and will cover up to 23 months until the renewal date (1 November). Full details of the subscription fees can be seen on the Membership subscription page. Payment is accepted in any of the six currencies indicated. You can join the Guild either by post or online.”