When To Use Contains

Some websites support the use of "contains" and there are times when it is a good search procedure. Depending up on the location and time, my last name can be spelled:

• Neil
• Neill
• O'Neil
• O'Neill
• McNeill
• MacNeill

A contains search for "Neil" will catch all these last names with one search. Soundex won't catch them all and most sites don't allow a wildcard as the first term.

The Provincial Archives of New Brunswick allows a contains search--others do as well. Keep your eyes open, it might be just the search option you need.