Monumental Inscriptions
Monumental Inscriptions (MIs) are engravings on grave markers or other memorials to the dead.
What do I need to know before I start?
Try to find out:
- name of the deceased (and possible other first names and alternative spellings of second names)
- likely date of death
- place where the deceased was buried (this is usually near the place where he or she lived or died, or where other family members were buried, although there are exceptions)
What records can I find in the Mitchell: Special Collections?
- Published lists and CDs for many graveyards throughout Scotland, arranged by county
- Online Index of Monumental Inscriptions, arranged by place name
- Books and magazines on family history and name research featuring Monumental Inscriptions
What records can I see online?
What records can I see elsewhere?
- Scottish Genealogy Society - the largest collection of Scottish MIs in the world
- Scottish Monumental Inscriptions
- National Library of Scotland - index of MIs
- Find a Grave in Scotland
- World Burial Index: Family History site dedicated to MIs and Burial Records
- Deceased Online - the central database for UK burials and cremations
What other resources will help me find information?
Books
- A.C.W. Merrick, R.S.J. Clarke and the Ulster Historical Foundation, “Gravestone Inscriptions: Old Belfast Families and the New Burying Ground from Gravestone Inscriptions, with Wills...” (1991)
- Sheila M. Spiers, “Monumental Inscriptions for Old Meldrum Churchyard” (1987)
- Irene Sutherland, “Monumental Inscriptions: Geddes Churchyard, Nairn-shire” (1995)
- Angus Mitchell, Mary Mitchell and Marjorie Stewart (compilers), “A list of published and unpublished monumental inscriptions held by the Scottish Genealogy Society” (2002)