[1] Genealogists are familiar with the term “FAN Club”. When working on solving a problem of identity, relationship or date, we look to the actions of friends, associates, and neighbors for clues or proof to our conclusion. Consider adding another group to “F”, extended family. Sometimes I hesitate to add the husband of my second great aunt to my family, but I have learned that it is a mistake not to add that person. FAN Club Includes "Collaterals" “Collaterals—the family members from whom one does not descend—are  just as important to research as the direct line.” [2] Think about that for a moment. How many times have you looked at a will or a deed where the signature of a witness does not match any of the names in your direct line? Upon investigation, you realize that “Joe Blow” married the sister of your ancestor “Bob Smith”. In my family, as well as in yours, that brother-in-law frequently was, or became, a trusted friend, member of the family and b...