Family Clues in Names

At an earlier time in our lives we might have looked at this list of names and determined that it was interesting for the residents of this village, but had little to do with us. These days of genealogy research, and memorial like this can contain valuable information. So, Marcia had me photograph it.

Later in our visit she was able to talk with Francoise's mother about the Sharits. Pardon me if I have spelled it incorectly, but I'm sure I am in good company as the spellings seem endless. This is a hint that it could have morphed over time. To our ears it is Sharit, but to the French ear in the Loire Valley it could be Chariotier.

The Chariotier were, as the name says, makers of wagons and other wheeled things. Since this was an area known for weaving (and lace making), a person skilled in the making of wheels would have been called upon to make them for other machinery such as looms.

We know that the family were Huguenots, so they were probably literate and might have done business with other Protestant cities where woven goods and lace brought a good profit-like Geneva, for instance. The Dutch paid well for such things, and also used skilled mechanics in shipbuilding. Since the Sharits left Holland for the US, it seems we have a possible connection. A story that would make sense.

We'll keep these name list photos for future reference. When you know the name of the father, you know half the story. If the Sharit/Charioter family lived in this area, they would have married women with other names from the area.

KG