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Unveiling Your Scottish Ancestry: A Guide to Traditional Naming
Patterns
Scottish families have a long history of using
specific naming traditions for their children. Understanding these
patterns can be a powerful tool for genealogists seeking to trace their
Scottish roots.
A Legacy in Names:
For
centuries, Scots followed a relatively simple system for naming their
offspring. While not universally adopted, these patterns were widespread
enough to offer valuable clues in your ancestral quest. However, their
use declined towards the late 19th century, so be mindful when
researching more recent generations.
Naming the Boys:
* The eldest
son received the name of his paternal grandfather.
* The second son was named after his
maternal grandfather.
* The third son typically bore his father's
name.
Naming the Girls:
* The first
daughter's name echoed her maternal grandmother's.
* The second daughter was named after the
paternal grandmother.
* The third daughter usually received her
mother's name.
Beyond the Basics:
These
formulas can aid you in identifying potential members of your ancestor's
immediate family. However, keep in mind that these patterns weren't
rigid. Here's why:
* Shared Names: Sometimes, both grandfathers had the same
name, leading to its use for two children.
* Loss and Remembrance: A
child might be named after a deceased sibling.
Ancestral Naming: A Deeper Look:
Scottish naming customs had another layer – the "ancestral
pattern," where children were named after more distant
ancestors. This system, outlined by John B. Robb, went like
this:
* Sons: After the third son, names followed a
sequence based on the father's and mother's great-grandfathers.
*
Daughters: Similar to sons, names after the third daughter followed a
sequence based on the mother's and father's great-grandmothers.
Unlocking Generations:
While the basic
patterns help identify close relatives, the ancestral pattern is
particularly useful for delving deeper into your family history.
Additionally, later ancestors' middle names often held clues, sometimes
being the mother's or grandmother's maiden name.
A Word
of Caution:
These patterns are a guide, not a guarantee.
Many families opted for names based on personal preference, honoring
friends, public figures, or clergy.
By understanding these traditional naming practices,
you'll be better equipped to navigate your Scottish ancestry journey and
uncover the fascinating stories waiting to be discovered.
See also:
• Family names
• Given names (being a different version
of this article)
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