I recently learned about traditional naming customs in Scotland – and I’ve discovered that my ancestors followed those rules! The oldest sons is named after his father’s father; the next son is named after his mother’s father. Same for girls – the oldest daughter is named after her mother’s mother, the next daughter is named after her father’s mother. After that, children are typically named after aunts and uncles. Here is an article that explains it in more detail (written by the woman who is the guide for my upcoming trip!).
Looking at my 3x-great-grandmother Ann Campbell’s family, we can see exactly how this worked out. The oldest child, Elizabeth, was named after her maternal grandmother “Betty” (nickname for Elizabeth). The next daughter Janet (knows as Jeannette in USA) was named after her paternal grandmother Janet. Next was son John, named after his paternal grandfather. Next is daughter Ann – notice that her mother Elizabeth Tainsh has a younger sister named Anne. Then son James, named after his maternal grandfather. Perhaps Margaret and Josiah were named for relatives on their father’s side of the family – I hope to flesh out this family tree while I’m in Scotland. In fact, I’ve been able to add a few names already in preparation for the trip.
I leave for Scotland on Sunday! Preparations are coming along nicely.
Karen, I am SO glad to learn this about the naming customs. This wil give me more infomation to help track my maternal grandmother’s roots. I’d suspected they were Scottish and I believe it moreso now. Thanks so much for sending the link to the information. You must be so excited to be off on your trip. I’ll be thinking of you. Take care of yourself!
Interesting! Will be eager to hear more from your time in Scotland. Should be a wonderful time. Have fun.