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
Genealogy for beginners
A guide to Scottish BMD records
If you’re tracing your Scottish ancestors, one of the best places to start is with BMD records, that’s short for births, marriages, and deaths. These official records offer the key … A guide to Scottish BMD recordsRead 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
Start with what you know: The easiest way to begin your family tree
So you want to build a family tree? Well you’re officially a budding genealogist. But before you go signing up for twenty different genealogy sites or diving into census records … Start with what you know: The easiest way to begin your family treeRead more
Am I actually Scottish?
A beginner’s guide for curious Americans Your aunt says you’re Scottish.Your cousin swears your great-great-grandpa wore a kilt.You love whisky and cried during Braveheart.And now you’re wondering: “Am I actually … Am I actually Scottish?Read more
What even is Genealogy?
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself thinking:“I wish I knew more about where I came from … but I have no idea where to start.” That question, … What even is Genealogy?Read more