Truman Capote, one of the more prolific writers of the first half of the 20th century, is reported as my 8th cousin, once removed, through our MRCA, Daniel Erhardt (1646-xxxx), the supposed 3 times great grandfather of my 4 times great grandfather, John Backus (1750-1823).  The lineage up from Grandfather John is decidedly German.  The details are decided slim.  My own research leaves Grandfather John as being either Irish or German — he claimed both at various times.  So, the lineage proposed is suspect.  I suspect the research into this family line will be no Breakfast at Tiffany’s.