[sinanju]

Is it possible that your ancestor was never in the system to begin with? I kinda doubt all the people who were senior citizens in the thirties jumped to get into SS. In fact, there were probably more than a few who considered it an affront.

[stylecouncilor]

Is it possible that your ancestor was never in the system to begin with?

I have his social security number. Which is probably currently being used by someone somewhere.