- a few paragraphs of general information on the origin of the surname (usually one of several possible origins and likely having nothing to do with your family)
- a coats of arms (which were granted to a specific individual, not a specific surname, and therefore, in all likelihood, do not belong to your specific surname or family)
- a list of people with your surname (usually taken from phone books which are widely available on the Internet)
While we're on the topic, those Family Crests and Coats of Arms you see at the mall are also a bit of a scam. There generally is no such thing as a coat of arms for a surname - despite the claims and implications of some companies to the contrary. Coats of arms are granted to individuals, not families or surnames. It's OK to purchase such a Coats of Arms for fun or display, just as long as you understand what you're getting for your money.
