OH Wise Ones, HELP

In my latest research I have come across a new mystery. His name is Milton DeWitt Kerr b c1849 in Ohio. He is the brother to my ggg-grandmother Lavinia J. Kerr Myers. Here is what I have. Milton was found on the 1850 census with James and Margaret Kerr (Carr) as Milton DeWitt age 1; 1860 census as M.D. Kerr age 11; 1870 census as Milton K DeWitt age 21 (I know that this is the same guy because he is listed with his mother); 1900 & 1910 both as Milton DeWitt at ages 51/61. I know that after the 1850 census, James Kerr took off insearch for gold and was killed in a hurricane off the New York harbor on 12 Sept 1857.

My question is why would Milton go by his middle name instead of by Kerr?

I don't believe that his mother ever married anyone by the last name of DeWitt.

Donna

Update:

I recieved school records for Milton and he is listed with a last name of DeWitt. So I (and a cousin) have come to the conclusion that Milton was either adopted or was taken in by the Kerr family.

Since my research is still in early stages, just 1 1/2 yrs interested, I am considering this file closed.

I've got to much other research to do than to chase a wild goose.

Donna