This Project first went on line in 1999, and is far from complete. Though it is entitled “Iain Laird’s Family History Project”, it is emphatically not about one person; I selected the name only to identify our branch of the family among so much useful  Family History on the net.  It all began with my Father’s enthusiasm for our heritage and was fuelled by conversations with my Great Aunt Jean, for whom our wider family meant everything.  I was given  further encouragement by our family friend, the late Squadron Leader Iain MacAulay MBE, FSA Scot, late Chief of Clan Macaulay
It was our Great Aunt Jean Before that our ancestor was a sea captain from Norway. This has been confirmed by research into our history and background. Through it I have made discoveries about, and have become privileged to have an involvement with our wider Family,  Caithness, Norway, Paisley, Glasgow, Clan Sinclair, with its unique and colourful history, and the History of Scotland and its relationship and interdependence with other Nations, an involvement with the  Society of Antiquaries of Scotland the Hammermen of Glasgow and the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights.  Each interest has grown into a section of  its own, which may help other family members, and others looking into their own origins to understand and appreciate our rich and rewarding cultural heritage. This Project has an international focus.

Iain Laird MA (Edin), FSA Scot

6th September 2025
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