Of course it is easier to follow the male lines, because the surname remains the same. But for the 19th century, I seem to have done better with some of my female lines. When I started I had better info on the female lines than the male lines.
I've had a LOT more luck on the female side than any of the male sides, since a fair few of my ancestors were illegitimate Ag Labs (must be the country air!)
I've still not found a Gateway Ancestor for my tree, but helping a friend who thought that her tree would be tricky almost immediately led to a gateway ancestor who led back to Edward II and thus, using the same logic as that ancient scroll-maker, she too can claim direct descent from God. Last time I argue with her.....
Glen
