Custom in naming

[Esteban Leavell]

Dear Forum members -

I am translating genealogical records and continually run across a Spanish tradition in the names given to people that include family names beyond the primary sir name. Below is an example:

Don Joseph Martín del Campo y Romo de Vivar y su esposa doña Leonor de la Mora-Hurtado de Mendoza y de Hermosillo fueron padres de los siguientes vástagos:

Martín del Campo is the family name what is – y Romo de Vivar (and Romo de Vivar). The custom is followed in the wife’s name – Leonor de la Morta-Hurtado de Mendoza y de Hermosillo (and of Hermosillo).

I would appreciate anyone out there that can give me some insights on the custom. I have seen some children given the added family name while others have none. The pattern is not consistent.

I thank you in advance,

Steve