Our Genealogy Department deals only with questions relating to Arran families. It is staffed by 3 volunteer researchers – Margaret Wright, Karen Barbour and Jean Glen.

Arran is divided, from N to S , into two parishes, Kilmory Parish which covers the west side and Kilbride Parish which covers the east side. We have the Old Parish Records (OPR) on microfilm, fisch and paper. These are the existing records of birth/baptisms and marriages for the parishes from 1701-1854. From 1855 all births, deaths and marriages were officially recorded and these are all available at Lamlash Council Offices, though many are on our own Data Base which is added to weekly. For deaths on Arran, prior to 1855, we rely on the Monumental Inscriptions (MI) which are available in our office and at the Museum Reception.

Census Returns for Bute and Arran from 1841-1901 are on microfilm and the 1881 census covering Britain is on CD. The International Genealogy Index (IGI) is available on fisch.

We have extensive files relating to Arran families which contain information given to us and researched by us. Also available are some minutes of Kilbride and Kilmory Kirk Sessions from the 1700’s, Valuation and Assessment Rolls, maps, newspapers, photographs, letters and books, including John Burrel’s Journals, all of which provide a wealth of information relating to Arran families.

If you wish us to research your family history there is a minimum deposit of £20.00 and £10.00 per hour thereafter. Should you be able to visit the museum and do your own research then that is included in entry to the museum.

You can contact Genealogy by email at:
genealogy@arranmuseum.co.uk.

Margaret, Karen and Jean welcome all enquiries with open OPRs. Every enquiry uncovers new information and brings some new piece of information to add to the fascinating jigsaw of Genealogy.

The Genealogy Department is open throughout the year on Wednesdays only, from 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm, or by prior appointment.