Guide to Using Scotland’s People for Genealogical Research

ScotlandsPeople (scotlandspeople.gov.uk) is the official government resource for Scottish historical records. It provides access to millions of documents essential for tracing MacGregor, Sept, and related family lines.

This guide walks you through how to use the site effectively and what to expect as you search.

1. Create an Account

You’ll need a free account to view or purchase records.

Creating an account is free; you only pay when you choose to view or download specific records.

2. Understand the Credit System

ScotlandsPeople uses a credit-based system.

  • Searching is free
  • Viewing images requires credits
  • Credits can be purchased in bundles

This allows you to search widely before spending anything.

3. Know What Records Are Available

The site contains a wide range of primary sources:

Civil Registration (post-1855)

  • Births
  • Marriages
  • Deaths

Church Records (pre-1855)

  • Baptisms
  • Proclamations/Marriages
  • Burials

Census Records (1841–1921)

Useful for tracking families over time.

Wills & Testaments

Often helpful for confirming relationships.

Valuation Rolls

Show where people lived and when.

Coats of Arms, Court Records, and More

Specialized collections for deeper research.

4. Start With the Search Function

Use the Search tab to begin exploring records.

Tips for Effective Searching

  • Start broad (surname + approximate date range)
  • Narrow results using location, parents’ names, or spouse
  • Try spelling variations — especially for MacGregor and its Septs
  • Use wildcards:
    • Example: MacGrgr to catch MacGregor, McGregor, MacGrigor, etc.

5. Viewing and Interpreting Records

Once you find a promising record:

  • Select View Image (requires credits)
  • Download or save the document for your files
  • Carefully note:
    • Names
    • Dates
    • Places
    • Occupations
    • Witnesses (often relatives)

These details help you build accurate lineage connections.

6. Use the “Advanced Search” Tools

Advanced filters help refine your results:

  • Parish
  • Registration district
  • Age
  • Mother’s maiden name
  • Spouse’s surname
  • Occupation

This is especially useful when dealing with common surnames.

7. Keep Track of Your Research

ScotlandsPeople allows you to:

  • Save searches
  • Bookmark records
  • Revisit previously viewed documents

This helps you stay organized as your family tree grows.

8. When You Need Help

Genealogical research can be complex — especially with older or missing records.

If you get stuck:

  • Reach out to the ACGS Registrar or Webmaster who has done extensive research himself using this tool.
  • Provide the names, dates, and any documents you’ve found
  • The Registrar can help interpret records or suggest next steps

You’re never expected to navigate the process alone.

9. Helpful Research Tips

  • Work backward from the most recent confirmed ancestor
  • Verify each generation with primary documents
  • Expect spelling variations — they’re extremely common
  • Remember that some early records may be incomplete or missing
  • Cross-check with U.S. or Canadian records when researching ancestors who emigrated