For genealogists who are researching Scottish family ties, a publication worth checking is "Scots Magazine". The sub-title is "For people who love Scotland", and it makes fascinating reading that will add a new dimension to your genealogy research.
The magazine has had some experience in exploring the Scottish way of life. The first issue came out in February, 1739, and was available to readers for the princely sum of sixpence monthly. Years passed and times changed, and it was revamped in 1924, as the magazine states "when it was re-established by the St Andrew Society (Glasgow) as the official organ of the Scottish Societies throughout the world. D C Thomson and Co., Ltd, Dundee, took it over in 1927 since when it has continued to be published monthly." Readership is upwards of a quarter of a million people, and gives an interesting insight into Scotland and the Scottish people.
When researching relatives from Scotland or anywhere else, it is always fascinating to learn about the country they once called home. Genealogy research is more than names, dates, and birth and death certificates. Genealogy encompasses learning the details about ancestors and how their home country helped shaped who they became. Learning about the country of origin is invaluable information to any researcher, and a magazine like Scots Magazine is a great tool for the Scottish genealogist.
As a random example, the August 2004 issue explores the island of Luing in the Firth of Lorne, and the Luing cattle. Developed by the Cadzow family, known as excellent stockmen, this line of cattle is famous world-wide. Combining the best attributes of Highland and Shorthorn, the distinctive red breed is known for hardiness and quality beef. In 1972, the Cadzow family received the Massey Ferguson National Award of Service to United Kingdom Agriculture.
Another article explores the ancient art form of sword-making. Now an art form, weaponry was once an everyday part of life for hunting or battle.
In another article, the reader learns about William Boyd, the 4th Earl of Kilmarnock. While his own story is very interesting, we also learn more about his time and space in history. The heartbreak of the battle of Culloden ended any hope of Bonnie Prince Charlie reclaiming the throne of Britain, and changed Scotland's clan system forever. Poor Scots were forced from their land in the Clearances, causing waves of emigration out of Scotland. It was in this climate of history that we learn of Boyd's struggles with debt, poor marriages, and his eventual capture at Culloden.
These articles help make history come alive, and can place Scottish ancestors in a new place and time in genealogy research. Modern researchers can better understand why their ancestors behaved in certain ways, helping to make clear the path their lives took to their eventual new homelands.
The Yorkton Branch of the Saskatchewan Genealogy Society welcomes genealogists at all stages of research. Whether you are just beginning your family search or have been working on your family tree for a long time, you will find help, advice and new avenues to explore with the group. Every family has a story: discover yours with the Yorkton Branch of the Saskatchewan Genealogy Society! New members are always welcome!
