Readme.txt
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Soundex.exe is a DOS program that converts names to soundex codes
used primarily in genealogy research.

No installation is required, simply unzip the file to the directory
of your choice and run it from the DOS prompt or from the FILE, RUN
command in Windows. If desired, make an icon/shortcut for quick access.

Soundex coding is a method of grouping words that sound alike into the
same category.  It was historically used as a filing method where the
spelling of  names was uncertain.  Even if you couldn't be sure of the
spelling of a name, you could code its sound and be assured of finding
it later.

The biggest use of soundex coding was in filing military personnel
records during and after World War II, and in filing U.S. Census records
from 1880 to 1930.  Soundex codes are currently used as a tool in
computer spell checkers, and by genealogists for researching records
filed by soundex code.

  1. The first character of the Soundex Code is the first letter of
  the surname.

  2. The following letters are not coded and should be disregarded
  when coding:  a, e, i, o, u, h, w, and y.

  3. Two or more consonants next to each other having the same code
  number will only be coded one time. If the second letter has the
  same code as the initial letter then it is not coded.

  4. Remaining consonants are assigned a number code as shown below.
  Zeros are added to complete the three required numbers in the code.

          Code  Letters
           1    b, p, f, v
           2    c, s, k, g, j, q, x, z
           3    d, t
           4    l
           5    m, n
           6    r

       Example: Aaron is coded as A650

Remember: several different names may have the same Soundex Code.

Soundex.exe was written in Clipper for DOS and has been donated to the
public domain.  It is freely distributable without limitations.

Author: Bill Craig
        jnb@mindspring.com
        http://jnb.home.mindspring.com/soundex.html
