Scottish Genealogy Research – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical costs associated with hiring a genealogist to trace Scottish roots?
The cost of Scottish genealogy research depends on what you are trying to find and how much research is involved.
Some enquiries can be dealt with relatively quickly, while others may require detailed research across several records, archives and sources. I therefore don't use a one-size-fits-all price for every research problem.
I offer research services and research sessions, with the work and cost explained before you decide whether to proceed.
If you're not sure what is involved in researching your family, get in touch and tell me what you know. I can then assess what may be possible and explain the options.
How do I begin researching my Scottish family history if I only have limited information?
Start with what you know, however little that may seem.
A name, an approximate date, a Scottish town or village, an old certificate, a photograph or a family story can all provide useful clues. The important thing is to establish what can be supported by records before moving further back.
Scottish records can be particularly useful because they contain information that can help identify relationships, occupations, addresses and places.
If your research has reached a dead end, or you simply don't know where to start, I can look at the information you already have and assess what further Scottish research may be possible.
You don't need a completed family tree before contacting me.
Can you recommend accredited genealogists in Scotland with experience in family history research?
If you are looking for a professional genealogist, I would suggest checking qualifications, professional experience and accreditation rather than relying simply on the amount of information a website contains.
I am an accredited member of the Association of Scottish Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (ASGRA) and hold an MSc in Scottish Family History and an MA(Hons) in Scottish Cultural Studies.
I have more than 30 years' experience researching Scottish family history and records, including experience working with historical records and archives at the Highland Archive Centre in Inverness.
I am based in the Scottish Highlands and undertake research for clients in Scotland and overseas.
What qualifications should I look for when choosing a genealogist to research my Scottish ancestry?
There isn't one qualification that guarantees that a genealogist will be right for every research problem. I'd look at a combination of relevant qualifications, professional accreditation, practical research experience and knowledge of the records involved.
For Scottish research, it is particularly useful to find someone who understands Scottish records and the way they have changed over time.
My own qualifications include an MSc in Scottish Family History and an MA(Hons) in Scottish Cultural Studies. I am also an accredited member of ASGRA.
I've been researching Scottish family history for more than 30 years and have practical experience working with Scottish historical and genealogical records and archives.
I also believe that a good genealogist should be prepared to follow the evidence, even when it doesn't confirm the family story. A convincing family tree is not necessarily an accurate one.
Where can I find professional genealogists specialising in Scottish ancestry?
There are genealogists working throughout Scotland, so I would recommend looking for someone with genuine experience of Scottish records and archives, and checking their qualifications and professional credentials.
I am based in the Scottish Highlands and specialise in Scottish family history research for clients in Scotland and around the world.
My work covers research into Scottish ancestors, families and places, using the records and sources relevant to the particular research problem.
If you've already tried researching your family yourself and become stuck, or simply don't know where to begin, you can contact me with the information you have. I'll tell you what I think can realistically be researched and what the next steps would be.
how far can you trace bacK?
Compulsory registration of births, marriages and deaths became compulsory in Scotland in 1855 and all events have been recorded until the present day. The first census was done in 1841, then every ten years, accessible until 1921.
Prior to 1855 it was the church that recorded events and when they commenced, what records were made, and what has survived means that different areas of the country are better recorded than others. On average someone can trace their Scottish ancestry back to 1750-1780.