What records exist in Scotland on emigration?
A The Scots travelled and settled all over the world, however information on emigrants and migrants is sparse in Scotland. Ships passenger lists are available from National Archives in London from 1890, however prior to this the information held in the destination country is usually more useful. The Highland and Islands Emigration Society was formed in the mid 1800s to assist emigrants from Scotland affected by the potato famine and changes in agriculture and there are some records of those who sailed to Australia between 1852 and 1857. Some applications to emigrate to Canada are available from the period 1886 to 1889, and the Crofters and Cottars Colonization Board kept records of those who went to Manitoba after 1889. back to top of page Links which may be of interest Email us – info@ourscots.
