Does anyone know about the origins of the surname Cantize?

Question:

Does anyone know about the origins of the surname Cantize?

My family tree apparently goes no further than Valentin Cantize and his daughter Elizabeth. They lived in the 1500's in England.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Looking at the records about the family that are on the internet, it appears no one has gone beyond the basics to find the earlier generations. These were not impoverished peasants. They were landed gentry. The next step would be to go through records in Kent to find wills, land records and local histories. I would recommend you find a history professor from a local college who is well-versed on the area and pick his brain. Historians are happy to share what they know and show the depths of their knowledge. Once you get a feel for things, see if you can find one of the professor's students who would be willing to do some research for you. It's my little secret, but it works beautifully. Students are happy to show their professors how good they are at research...and you have to pay a small amount for good research instead of large retainers and fees.