Tracing the history of a house

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Tracing the history of a house is not always easy but it can be a fun and rewarding pastime.

How do I get started?
Your Title Deeds should provide useful information that can include dates and the names of previous owners. There is usually a fee to see your deeds but you can normally see them when you buy a property. The Registers of Scotland agency can provide further information regarding land ownership and deeds.

Can the Local Studies Library provide records to help with searching?
The Local Studies Library has a range of resources that may help you in tracing the history of a house. These include -

• Census records
• Electoral Registers, from 1975 onward, with some earlier editions
• Valuation Rolls, from 1968 onward, with some earlier editions
• Dean of Guild plans, the collection is incomplete
• Register of Listed Buildings
• maps
• Trades Directories
• Sasines, which record changes in land ownership
• local newspapers
• The Poll Tax Rolls for 1695, including index

It is worth noting in 1923 streets in Paisley were renamed and renumbered. The list of these changes can be viewed in the Local Studies Library.

Further help and information
You may be able to get additional information and resources from -

• Glasgow City Archive
• National Archives of Scotland