Dynastree maps out your last name
Dynastree (formerly ItsOurTree.com) has a new tool that shows you where others with your last name live. You simply type in your name and it shows you on a state-by-state basis where there are others who share it. Of course if your last name is "Smith" or "Jones" this won't help much, but I found it to be spot on with mine.
Besides the U.S., which has approximately 1.7 million last names in its database, you can also search all of Canada. Included with both is a small analysis right below the map that ranks your last name's prominence in each state (or province/territory), as well as on a national level.
Where the tool won't help you is tracking some of these folks down, or helping you figure out if you're actually related to them. That, to me, seems like the next logical step.
One other thing to note is that I didn't have any luck getting this tool to run in Firefox or Google Chrome. However, it worked fine in Safari and Internet Explorer.
Donald Trump isn't the only Trump in the U.S. Dynastree can now search for your surname as well.
(Credit: CNET Networks)
Josh Lowensohn writes for Webware.com, CNET's blog about Web applications and services. E-mail Josh, or follow him on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/Josh. 
We're currently improving the surname maps service. These works might cause some temporary problems in Firefox and Google Chrome. We will fix it as soon as possible.
Best, Christian
the dynastree Team
The problems with Firefox and Chrome are fixed. In case of any questions or difficulties with the service please feel free to write to info@dynastree.com.
Best, Christian
the dynastree Team
- Another performance boost due to further hardware upgrades
- You can now add a dynastree widget with your personal surname map to your own blog or homepage!
Best, Christian
the dynastree Team
- by mdwychoff February 3, 2009 10:25 PM PST
- 'Febuary' is misspelled in your application.
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