When you think about your Scottish ancestors, you probably imagine hardworking people in bustling communities. But did you know that many miners and salt workers in Scotland lived under a … Unearthing Scotland’s hidden history of servitudeRead more
Explainer
Understanding Scottish and Irish maiden names
We have all struggled to track a female ancestor or wondered why the same names appear over and over again in our family tree. Scottish and Irish naming traditions can … Understanding Scottish and Irish maiden namesRead more
Why are my ancestors not in a census
You’re searching the census, expecting to see your ancestor listed neatly with their family, but the record just isn’t there. You check again. And again. Still nothing. If this sounds … Why are my ancestors not in a censusRead more
The 1911 Scottish census: a closer look at your ancestors’ lives
If you’ve dipped your toes into Scottish family history, you may already know that census records are goldmines of information. But the 1911 Scottish census is a little different. It’s … The 1911 Scottish census: a closer look at your ancestors’ livesRead more
What’s in a Scottish parish record? A beginner’s guide
If you’re researching Scottish ancestors from before 1855, parish records will likely be your best (and sometimes only) source of information. But what exactly is a parish record, and what … What’s in a Scottish parish record? A beginner’s guideRead more
What is a ‘brick wall’ in genealogy and how to break through it
Every family history researcher hits a frustrating point when a record, a person, or an entire branch of the family tree seems to vanish without explanation. You’ve checked the census, … What is a ‘brick wall’ in genealogy and how to break through itRead more
Beginner’s genealogy glossary: 25 terms you should know
When you’re just getting started with family history, it can feel like you’re learning a whole new language. Census returns, BMD indexes, parish records – it’s easy to get overwhelmed. … Beginner’s genealogy glossary: 25 terms you should knowRead more
Was your ancestor in prison? How to spot it in the census
If you’ve ever searched the census and noticed a missing ancestor, or discovered one listed in an unexpected place, you might have come across a prison record without even realising … Was your ancestor in prison? How to spot it in the censusRead more
A research log can help make sense of your genealogy
If you’re just starting out in family history, chances are you’ve already fallen down a few rabbit holes. One minute you’re searching for your great-grandfather’s birth record and the next … A research log can help make sense of your genealogyRead more
Scotland’s People on a budget: free ways to use a paid site
How to get the most from Scotland’s People without spending a penny (yet) If you’re just getting started with Scottish family history, chances are you’ve heard of Scotland’s People. It’s … Scotland’s People on a budget: free ways to use a paid siteRead more