If you have any photographs or stories to contribute please get in touch by leaving a comment below.

84 thoughts on “Contact”

  1. Hello Mr McCreath. I caddied at Royal Troon in 1961 to 1963 at age 14 to 16. “Old Bob” was the caddie master and as he peered over the bottom of the Dutch Doors you never had a clue if you would get a bag until his wavering finger pointed in your direction. Caddied for a variety of locals at 10s a round – no tips unless had the luck to get an American bag then it was an automatic pound. 1962 I did caddie with the club captain in a round with Kel Nagle, a last minute thing no Sr caddie available. Worked in the ’62 Open in the beer tent hand washing glasses.
    I was born in Crosshouse 1947, mom was son of George Taggart, Co-Op Manager. Left for Canada at age 4 then returned at age 14 living at 2 St Clair Terrace Troon. Returned to Canada June ’64. No memory of who I caddied with or Bobs last name. Attended Marr College. Played Darley, Portland and Loch Green several times since but not the Old Course. Thanks for listening.

    1. Hi Alan, thanks for being in touch. I am not a golfer though I have a cousin who played at Royal Troon and Western Gailes. I’ll ask him for his memories. Where in Canada go you live? Best regards. Douglas

  2. Hello Douglas,
    I came across your site recently whilst trying to research my family tree. My great great grandparents Hugh Munro (master shoemaker) and Jane MacDonald Munro are on it. Would that be that we share Hugh and Jane as great great grandparents? The Munros I am finding particularly difficult to find as my father was an only child and died young, my starting point was trying to find out my great grandparents names and so I have been slowly picking my way back from there. I find finding anyone after 1911 census nigh on impossible. I have however found a little info on your grandfather James Munro’s brother William’s family, however stuck his children at the generation born around 1890ish . Regards Fiona .

  3. Hi.
    My son sent me a link to the Bluebird cafe , Pollokshaws Rd.
    The cafe and a large proportion of the tenement flats were owned by the Valerio family, one of
    whom married a Piacentini. My father rented a flat from late 50s until mid 80s, eventually buying it at discounted price.
    The family emigrated to Australia in the mid to late 70s, leaving the original Mrs Valerio . My dad looked after affairs, I ran messages for her.
    The cafe address was not 767, that was the close we lived in, we eventually moved round the corner to 3 Balvicar St, a bigger 3 bedroom flat. My bedroom is directly above Bròdies front door.
    Regards

  4. Hi Douglas

    Hope you are well. I can probably fill in a few details on the tree – I am married to Nick McCreath born 1976. Would be good to have a chat sometime if you would like to get in touch.

    Kind regards
    Shirley

    1. Dear Glenn,

      Only now did I see the sad note about Anita’s passing. One of the reasons for my missing your message relates to my health I had a small stroke in 2021 from which I am glad to day I have recovered – and able to pick up on long overdue correspondence.

      I trust you and the family are all well. Best regards. Douglas

  5. Good Evening,

    I was wondering if you would be able to add Noah John Barr to the ‘Barr’ branch please? His mother is Emma Janet Barr and he was born on the 31st of March 2014.

    Kind Regards,

    Louise Barr

    1. Thanks for your note, Louise. Happy to make the addition – though I would need a little bit more detail so to do.

      I assume you are a descendant of John Barr and Christine McCreath, and that your parents may be John Barr anded Mary Brandford. If so, can you let me have your and Emma’s full names and the name of Noah’s Dad.

      I will then be able to amend the chart. If I have got it wrong, can you put me right?

      Best regards

      Douglas

  6. Hi Douglas, love your website.
    I am James “Brian” McCreath and I was wondering if it is possible to get my McCreath ancestry added to your website?
    Let me know if this is possible and if so, what you would like me to do.
    Below is a snapshot and I also have supporting documentation.
    Cheers,
    Brian

    James McCreath ( 1789 – 1861) born Ayrshire, Scotland, died County Antrim, Ireland
    Married Margaret Agnes Ringhoffer (McCreath) (1790 – 1861) born Ayrshire, Scotland, died County Antrim, Ireland

    James McCreath (1824 – 1893) born Ayrshire, Scotland, died Iowa, US
    Married Sarah Hill Beckett (McCreath) (1831 – 1905) born Ballymoney, Ireland, died Iowa, US

    James McCreath (1858 – 1935) born County Antrim, Ireland, died Kansas, US
    Married Dora Haas (McCreath) (1884 – 1984) born Nebraska, US, died Kansas, US

    Clarence Alexander McCreath (1914 – 2005) born Kansas, US, died Kansas, US
    Married Velma Leona Walker (McCreath) (1913 – 2003) Kansas, US, died Kansas, US

    James Walker McCreath (1937 – 2009) born Kansas, US, died California, US
    Married Burnetta Marie Fischer (1936 – 2020) born Kansas, US, died California, US

    James Brian McCreath (1962 – ) born Kansas, US
    Married Anna Lynn Yrazabal (1965 – ) born Idaho, US

    1. Hi Brian, Apologies for the long delay in replying – largely caused by some health issues that I am pleased to say are now over.

      I am now beginning to update the site and will be pleased to include your family details. Some time ago I corresponded with one of your branch of the clan

  7. Hi, been doing research into family history as we recently lost my grandfather james gardner (garry) mccreath on the 8th of december (not to covid) he passed peacfully at home.
    While looking at the records i found my mum who is joyce mccreath who is now also a grandmother to baby freya purvis so the tree gets bigger.
    Its good to know there are more mccreaths out there as my mum is the end of the name holding line for.

    1. Hi Garry, Thanks for being in touch. I was saddened to hear about your Grandad’s passing. He and I corresponded around 2000 and we had always hoped to meet up. Regrettably, we never did.

      I also corresponded with your Mum a couple of years later. It was by this means that I was able to start building your branch of the tree.

      Your branch has been updated, though I would be grateful if you can let me know where Freya fits – and any other details that can be added.

      Best regards

      Douglas

      1. Hi I am James Gardner McCreath partner katie , just to let you update your records James passed on the 27th of November not the 8th Dec. I hope this helps to keep an accurate record of the McCreath family tree

        1. Dear Katie

          Thank you for the date correction and apologies for my tardiness in replying

          .One of the reasons for this relates to my health. I had a small stroke in 2021 from which I am glad to day I have fully recovered – and able to pick up on long overdue correspondence.

  8. Hi,
    Came across your website when passing the time looking for info on the 52nd Lowland Division. My father was with the Glasgow Highlanders who relieved the Canadians on the Walcheren Causeway. You may find the info and documents about this and the Glasgow Highlanders in WW2 on my website of interest, especially the Walcheren 1964 anniversary program. Webpage is as below. All the best to you and yours.
    John Hendry

    1. Dear John,

      Thank you most sincerely for being in touch and directing me to your treasure trove of a website. The information, documents, and images are of immense interest, and I look forward in eager anticipation to reading the site’s content.

      Anyone with an interest in the role of the 52nd Lowland Division, and its constituent Regiments, in WW2 cannot fail to be impressed. All I can say is – wow!!

      I have been going over to Nieuwdorp with my siblings and nephews for the past four years for The Mallard Walk. At the opening of the new museum last year, I presented my father’s campaign medals.There is to be a Cameronian exhibit.

      I will pass on the link to to your site to my family.

      I will also send you an email.

      With thanks, and every good wish

      Douglas McCreath

  9. Hello Douglas
    we made contact quite a few years ago about “my” McCreaths of Colmonell
    Did you ever manage to “link” up all the Ayrshire McCreaths ?
    I would like to make contact with you again as I will now have more time
    I do like your “new ” website
    Sandra

    1. Hi Sandra, Great to hear from you. Where does the time go? Recently I have been working on my late wife’s McLean line, and coincidentally completed the first draft of a narrative just last night!

      I have to confess to having done little lately on the McCreath side. Your email will provide a stimulus to action! Have you made much progress? I’ll duplicate this in an email to facilitate contact.

      With every good wish

      Douglas

  10. Hi Douglas, I don’t know if you remember me from previous contact. I have just come across

    this website. It is great. I have some photo’s that may be of interest so will try and get them to you

    not to good with this tech yet.

    Best wishes Jennifer James nee Balharry

    1. Hi Jennifer. Of course I remember you! I trust you and yours are well and riding the storm of these strange times in which we live.All well here though we are bracing ourselves for a challenging winter.

      Thanks for being in touch. I would love to see the photos.

      Best regards
      Douglas

    2. Hi Jennifer. Of course I remember you! I trust you and yours are surviving these strange times in which we live. We are all OK here but not at all looking forward to the too-fast approaching winter – and all that it may bring. I am pleased you like the website and would be delighted to see the photos.

      Best wishes and thanks in anticipation,
      Douglas

  11. Hello!

    I stumbled across your website today as part of my Quarantine Occupation Activities. I can provide you with some addition ancestry for your son-in-law’s Visocchi line. I have documentation for an additional 2 to 3 generations for Antonio Visocchi b. ca 1796 and also the name of Maria Fiorina’s parents. I also have a lot of documentation about additional descendants of Antonio and Fiorina, as well. They had 13 children in total, with at least 9 of them reaching maturity.

    I am happy to share the information, if you are so interested.

    Regards

    1. Hi Joe,
      Thanks for being in touch. I trust you are surviving these strange times in which we are living. Apologies for the delay in replying. Given the good weather we had during lockdown, I spent a lot of time in the garden. With winter approaching, I have I have turned again to more sedentary pursuits, not least of all too-long neglected family tree matters.

      I would be delighted to receive your Visocchi information – as I know would my son-in-law.

      Thanks in anticipation,
      Douglas

      1. Hi my name is James Munro, Hugh and Jessie from penilee were my grandparents, they had two sons, James the elder and John my father . James (Jim) was married for a while in the 60s but spent the rest of his life in penilee Glasgow, John, my dad married Margaret Wilkins, they had two sons, myself and my younger brother derek. They lives out their years in Hamilton and both are now deceased. Derek my brother passed away in 2012 leaving three sons. Derek mark and Scot.
        I moved to Torquay Devon married Margaret Mcbride from Hamilton and had 4 sons Jamie Barry Ross and Callum. All live in Torbay to date

        1. Hi Jim, What a nice surprise to receive your letter. Through my grandmother (Mary Victoria Haggart (ms Munro), I knew of your family. I was particularly intrigued because my late wife went to Penilee Secondary and her aunt lived in Linburn Road, Penilee. Though I looked I was unable to track your family down – so it’s wonderful to make contact and receive your information.
          I am not sure how much you know of your Munro antecedents but I’m more than happy share what info. I’ve gleaned and any photos I have a picture of our shared ancestor James Munro (1858-1930) and his family outside the house he built at Ardersier.

          Your Hugh and my Mary Victoria were siblings.

          Hope to hear more from you.
          Best regards

          Douglas

    1. Hi James, Good to hear from you. I agree it would be good to be in touch to identify our respective places on the family tree.

      I hope to hear more from you.

      Best regards

      Douglas

  12. Martha Taylor mccreath. My granny, she had 3 children, William Bannatyne , Elizabeth Bannatyne Now young and Jessie Bannatyne now Tennant . Should you wish any other info I’m happy to message.

    1. Hi Anne,

      Many thanks for your family information and your offer to provide more. I trust you are surviving the strange times in which we live.Apologies for not having replied sooner
      Best regards
      Douglas

  13. Hi Douglas,

    My name is Sian Kenyon- i am Graham Kenyon’s daughter (Fred Kenyon’s grand-daughter, Alexander McCreath’s great grand-daughter).
    I wanted to provide some additional information about our side of the family.

    Fred Kenyon sadly passed away on the 3rd April 2003 after complications due to kidney failure. He lived in Ham, London at this time.

    Graham Kenyon married my mother, Deryth Margaret Beynon, on 21st June 1986. They lived in Camberley, Surrey until they separated in August 2003. They officially divorced in June 2010.
    They had two children; myself (Lyndsey Sian Kenyon, born 24th July 1987) and my sister (Hannah Rhian Kenyon, born 12th July 1991).
    Both my sister and I are currently single with no children.

    If you have any questions, I would more than happy to consult the rest of my family for answers.

    Kind regards,

    Sian

    1. Dear Sian,

      Thank you for making contact and for the update information about your immediate family – and for your kind offer of help to fill in other pieces the jigsaw. I would be most grateful if you could do that. I have added you and your sister to the chart on my computer and will amend the website when I get a chance.

      I will also send you a pdf copy of the chart as a message attachment to you, to help your family

      discussions. Correction of any any gaps, errors etc., you spot would be most helpful.

      I look forward too hearing from you.

      Best regards

      Douglas

  14. My name is Calum McCreath as is mentioned re Edward Lawrence McCreath.

    There is lots missing…….

    Cheers

    1. Hi Calum, It would be good to be able to enlist the help of both yourself and your niece, Sarah, to fill in the missing pieces of the jigsaw.

      Hope to hear from you.

      Best regards

      Douglas

  15. Dear Sir,
    I was very interested to see the photograph in your collection of the 7th Cameronians on Guard duty at Balmoral,October 1942
    I believe that a relative of mine served with this unit at about this time.
    Are you able to provide any names to those pictured?

    Kind regards,
    Tim Egerton

    1. Hi Tim,
      Sadly, I am unable to put any names to the photo. I discovered it only after my parents had passed away. What information do you have about your Cameronian relative. Happy to help any way that I can?

      Best regards

      Douglas

      1. H i Douglas,
        thanks for your reply.
        Unfortunately I don’t have a huge amount of information other than that my Uncle Bill served with the regiment during the war & was at Balmoral Castle.(He was possibly a Colonel)
        I believe that he gave a photograph taken there during this time to my Uncle Bob.
        The photograph showed a number of officers & the two princesses Elizabeth & Margaret.
        My Uncle Bob worked at Rolls Royce & when the Queen visited in the 1980’s he took the photograph along.My Dad told me that when the Queen saw the photo she made a point of asking my Uncle Bob about it as she obviously recognised it.
        Sadly,after his death a number of years ago we were unable to find the photo among his possessions.
        I cannot even say if this is the same photograph but it is the correct regiment,time & location.
        Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated.
        Kind regards,
        Tim

  16. The family of my husband ,Alfred McCormack, owned Leon’s Cafe in Shawlands for many years. His uncle by marriage, Lombardi whose first name was Ralph I believe, owned it from long before WWII. He and his wife Lucy nee D’Ambrosio lived in 44,Tantallon Road. They had an adopted daughter called Winnie who died in the early 50’s of TB. Several members of the D’Ambrosio family ran it after Ralph died. By the time I knew it, my husband’s mother, Cathy McCormack, and her adopted sister, Peggy Lawson, ran it together but it was actually owned by another sister, Jean D’Ambrosio. Jean moved in with Lucy on her marriage but never married herself. Her fiance died in the war flying with the RAF. My husband and I were offered the lease of the cafe around 1970, but we decided to go on on with our teaching careers.
    One lovely story is that when Italy entered the war against the Allies, a large number of customers converged on the shop to protect it from attack by angry patriots. The family never forgot that loyalty.

    1. Many thanks indeed, Kara, for your very helpful and interesting information about you and your family’s links with Leon’s cafe. I’ll amend the website accordingly.
      Is it possible that Ralph Lombardi bought the cafe from the Pignatelli’s. I could find no record of the death of Giulio Leone Antonio Pignatelli and wonder if he and his wife returned to Italy before the war?
      Best regards

      Douglas

  17. Hi Douglas,

    My name is Stephen Pucci – I am the great-grandson of Pietro Pucci.

    In 1910, Pietro married Elisabetta Canale, sister to Antonio. Antonio had sponsored Pietro to come to Scotland from Cervaro, Frosinone, in 1905.

    Pietro and Elisabetta opened their first shop was in Laurencekirk, where they had six children. They then moved to Montrose, first to Ferry Street and then to Murray Street.

    I have been compiling a family tree over the last few months, and would be happy to share more information, if you have an email address I could write to?

    Best wishes,

    Stephen

    1. Hi Stephen, Many thanks for your kind offer to share your family tree research. I have sent a personal e-mail to you with my address and look forward to hearing from you.

      Best regards
      Douglas

  18. Hi Douglas.
    You have done a great job with this family tree, which I have studied. Just a question though.
    Regarding James McCreath born 1746: you write that James first married Janet Kennedy, 1 son James in the marriage, who died very young. He then married Margaret Gemmell, by whom he had 7 children. But on the pages with the pedigree chart you write, that James McCreath and Janet Kennedy also has a son Alexander Mackraith, born 1783 in Maybole If born 1783 Alexander should be the son of James and Margaret Gemmell ? and probably born in Mauchline. What are your thoughts?
    FYI. Ann McCreath, born 1776, daughter of James McCreath and Margeret Gemmell I believe marry on 23.4.1799 in Mauchline to John Hepburn, b. ca 1780, 7 children in the marriage born St. Quivox and Sorn.
    With kind regards
    Solveig Norton, Australia

    1. Many thanks for your interesting e-mail. Thank you for pointing out the date error for Alexander Mackraith (McCreath). It should have been, of course, 9 DEC 1773. Thank you also for the information about the marriage of Ann, (daughter of James McCreath and Margaret Gemmell to John Hepburn. I have found them, thanks to you, on the Scotland’s People website – and 6 off spring of their son, James Hepburn (born 18 JUN 1811, St Quivox.

      Are you a member of this branch?

      Thanks once more. I look forward to hearing again from you.

      Best regards

      Douglas

  19. Hello
    I have just read your notes about your father being a Glaswegian and meeting a Bridge of Allan lady, my situation is almost identical, my father Peter McDonagh also a Glaswegian and was biletted in Bridge of Allan trained at Comrie, he also met my mother during that time and along came me and my twin sisters.
    I often wonder if there is anything out there where I could learn more about that time ??

    1. Hi Peter, great to hear from you. I assume it was the 7th Battalion your Dad was in. Do you know which company?
      I wrote a piece for The Bridge of Allan Times a few years ago which provides a little background:

      Bridge of Allan, Garrison Town?

      Published in The Bridge of Allan Times, Issue 19, Spring 2010.

      The eye-catching, restored War Memorial in Pullar Park was, and is again, a fitting and highly visible tribute to the men of Bridge of Allan who gave their lives in foreign fields in two World Wars. There is, however, another chapter of the village’s war-time story that the Memorial does not tell – tone that concerns the thousands of troops stationed here during the Second World War.

      My father – a Glaswegian – was conscripted into the 7th Battalion of the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles). The 7th Cameronians were part of the 52nd Lowland Division, a first-line territorial division mobilised in 1939.
      After a short spell in France as part of the second British Expeditionary Force, the 7th Cameronians were based at Bridge of Allan in November 1940. They remained until October 1941 before moving to Crieff, allowing plenty of time for romance to blossom between members of the military and local girls.

      Cupid aimed his dart at my mother, Jenny Haggart (then of Cawder Road) and my father. They started “courting” – meeting at the Paterson Clock. The rest is history. In this respect, my two brothers, my sister and myself owe our very existence – at least in part – to Adolf Hitler’s imperialistic ambitions!

      When my father was demobbed, my parents lived initially in my grandparents’ home in Cawder Road and then in short-term rented accommodation throughout the village. They had married in Lecropt Kirk, where I was christened. My first school was the old Public School. Though my folks moved back to Glasgow, our ties with the village, through relatives, have remained strong. My father’s ashes were interred in Lecropt churchyard. My mother now lives in Dunblane, and my brother and his wife have returned as residents to Bridge of Allan.

      Like many of his generation, my father was reluctant to speak of his war experiences. It was only through the recent (2007) re-printing of Mountain and Flood: The History of the 52nd (Lowland) Division 1939-45 that I was able to understand better the Cameronians’ links with the village.

      What I had not appreciated was that they were not the only unit to be posted to Bridge of Allan, nor were they even the first. The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders had that honour. They had arrived on 10 January 1940 and were billeted in the Museum Halls. Other units arrived in July and were accommodated at first in the village’s Church Halls, the Public School in Union Street and Keirfield Hall in Inverallan Road. Various houses “up the hill” which happened to be unoccupied at the time were requisitioned by the military authorities
      Towards the end of October 1940 the army’s physical presence became even more apparent through the erection of military huts on the the field at Station Road (now Cawder Gardens and Inverallan Drive); in Stanley Park (which lay in the area bounded by Mayne Avenue, Airthrey Avenue and Forglen Road); at Logie Aston in Kenilworth Road; and in the grounds of the Allan Water spa (now the Vecchia Bologna Restaurant).

      various houses “up the hill” which happened to be unoccupied at the time were requisitioned by the military authorities.

      During the early months of 1941 work commenced on an additional camp on the western side of Westerton Estate (in the vicinity of John Murray Drive and Hopetoun Drive). The initial bell tents and marquees whited housed the soldiers gave way to corrugated rob Nissen huts, which were much more suitable for the winter months.

      These encampments were put to good use by the succession of units – British and Allied – that were stationed in the village during the course of the war, including The 1st Royal Marines, The Love Scouts, The 1st Norwegian Brigade and The 2nd and 4th Polish Rifle Battalion.

      As well as the need for lodgings for the men, office premises were also required by the army command. The HQ of the 7th Cameronians, for example, was located at Viewforth on Kenilworth Road; the Regimental Aid Post at Craiegievar in Henderson Street.

      A NAAFI canteen was opened, initially in the basement of the Museum Hall, and later in Chalmers Church Hall. A church-run cafe was situated in Henderson Street opposite the Royal Hotel (in the premises now occupied by the Fotheringham Gallery). My mother worked there as a volunteer before taking up work in Harland Engineering’s Alloa factory – assembling electrical cable harnesses for armoured personnel carriers.

      In addition, from the commencement of hostilities, calls went out for Local Defence Volunteers (later re-named the Home Guard, first aiders, air-raid wardens, auxiliary firemen and special constables. My grandfather, Duncan Haggart, was one of Bridge of Allan’s special constables.

      Relations between the military and the volunteers appear to have been fairly amicable, as revealed by the following reminiscences of Archibald J MacLean, a member of the Home Guard :-

      “During the autumn and winter of 1940-41 a battalion of Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) was stationed in Bridge of Allan, and the Home Guard was invited to join them in a Church Parade and March past. The Service was held in St Andrew’s Church (now Bridge of Allan Parish Church), and in accordance with the Covenanting ancestry of the Cameronians sentries were posted at the doors of the Church and the Riflemen carried their rifles into Church with them. After the service the salute was taken outside the Royal Hotel. All very impressive until it is remembered that the Cameronians was a Rifle Regiment which marches at 140 paces to the minute instead of the normal infantryman’s 120. The Band played the Regimental march, the Riflemen with rifles at the trail stepped briskly along, and the poor old Home Guard, rifles at the slope, did their utmost to keep up with the fast-disappearing Cameronians.”

      Sadly, as those with first-hand experience of the events of these war-torn days are also too fast disappearing. It’s important for future generations that their stories are preserved.

      Our family’s story is bound up with the Cameronians. Do others have links with or stories about any of the other units that were posted to the village?

  20. Hi Douglas,

    I’m at the end of an unfinished line of McCreaths.
    I’ve been looking into my Grandfather’s family and found your site. You don’t have us on here past Grandad so I’m happy to send you through the details if you want to get in touch through my email address.

    Thanks,
    Sarah McCreath

  21. Re Bluebird cafe strathbungo. Was owned by the Valerio family. Dr Valerio and family lived in main door flat 5 Balvicar St. His mother and father were 1st generation Italians. The family owned most of the block. I grew up at 767 pollolkshaws rd and 3 balvicar st.
    The piacentinis were daughter and son in law of the Valerios.
    My mum worked in cafe. Free ice cream!!

  22. Re:- Canale’s, Montrose

    My sister-in-law Dorothy Canale was born in Montrose and emigrated to Canada. She is the granddaughter of Antonio Canale and Maria Guiseppa D’Agostino the original owners of Canale Ice Cream Shop.
    Their daughter Teresa Canale was married to J.S Ronaldson – James Stewart Ronaldson.
    Domenico Canale was Teresa’s sister.
    The National Records of Scotland has the address of the shop listed as 85 High Street, Montrose.

    1. Many thanks, Mary, for being in touch and providing more biographical details of the Montrose Canales.

      The photo on the website was taken from the book ‘Montrose Past and Present’ published by The Montrose Society. At the bottom of the photo is the handwritten inscription ‘ Antonio Canale 99 Murray Street Montrose.

      The book was published in 2002 with a photo of Flair Florist occupying the premises. Today Flair Forest is at 95 Murray Street. It seems that that street numbers have been changed.

      I found Antonio’s family family listing on the 1911 Census. Will post it, if you wish.

      Douglas

  23. Hi Douglas,
    My name is Jack Fergus. My paternal grandmother was Elizabeth McCreath, her father was Thomas Thom McCreath. Elizabeth married John Taylor Fergus, they had four children, Alexander, Thomas McCreath, John Taylor and Elizabeth Reid.
    My grandmother, Elizabeth McCreath, died in 1968.
    I have not been able to find anything about Jane Reid other than her birth certificate ….. also, I believe that most of the children, my Great Uncles and Great Aunts emigrated to Canada and Australia so no info there.
    I am researching my paternal tree, the Fergus family. I have managed to go back to about 1790, that’s when it becomes difficult. I have decided to go sideways to include the family of the Fergus spouses.

    Good to have found you
    Best Regards
    Jack

    1. Hi Jack,

      Good to hear from you.
      I trust you found the pieces about the descendants of Thomas Thom McCreath on the site – especially the piece about Robert McCreath (1883-1958) who in 1916 was listed as living in Edmonton, Alberta. His mother Jane (62 and widowed) is also listed.

      Douglas

  24. Hi Mark, Good to hear from you.
    I think I can fill in a few gaps for you.

    I believe your great great grandfather was indeed Henry McCreath (1855-1932) who married Margaret Elliot.
    Henry’s parents were John McCreath (born c. 1826) and Annie McKail (1824-1903).
    John McCreath (1826) married Janet Dunlop (1795-1872).

    I have more details of the off-spring of John and Janet but so far I have been unable to get further back – nor yet link your branch into mine. I must get round to adding these as-yet un-connected branches to the website.

    Let me know if you would like me to send you what I have.

    Best regards. Douglas

  25. Ciao,
    I am currently carrying out a study of families that originated from the town of Atina and the Val di Comino. I am helping to organise a festival in Atina this summer to Remember the Emigrants of this area. This will be held on the 8th August 2019 in Atina.
    I am gathering family stories of emigrants. Their story – when they left, and why. Where they decided to settle, what work they did etc etc? I am also looking for family photos and other documents.
    If you can help me in any way I would be very grateful. My email address is ph.shapcott@gmail.com
    I decided to create a new website in English, about Atina and the surrounding area of the Val di Comino. You may like to have a look : http://atinaitaly.com

    If you have family who came from this area please do feel welcome to come and join our Facebook Group “WE LOVE ATINA AND THE VAL DI COMINO”
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/62618687824/
    Looking forward to hearing back from you,
    Kind regards and Ciao for now !!!
    Louise Shapcott

    1. Hi Louise, Is the Festival a one day event or are other things happening after the 8th August. The reason for asking is that I arrive in Belmonte Castello on 9th August

      Ciao, Douglas

  26. Hi Douglas, fabulous website, I’m just getting started looking up family tree on my dad’s side. I looked into my maternal great grandfather’s WW1 war record and got the bug so now turning to dad’s side. My name is Mark McCreath b.1972, my dad is John born 1947, grandfather John William McCreath b. Helensburgh 1923,, great gf John Alexander McCreath age 31 when wed to Maggie Milligan in 1919.
    I think my gt, gt grandfather may have been Henry McCreath b. 17/05/1855. Don’t have the info in front of me but I think he was born in Maybole or near by, but there was another Henry McCreath born around the same time/place so I’m not sure.
    Thanks for all your great work
    Mark

  27. Hello!

    My name is Angela Visocchi and I have found your site very interesting and helpful in my own genealogical research!

    There is one error on the Visocchi side on your site that you may like to know about. I have have some additional information that you may like to have.

    Kind regards
    Angela

    1. Hi Angela, Many thanks for being in touch. I would be grateful to know of and to be able to change the error – and to add the additional information you have.

      Best regards

      Douglas

  28. Hello! Wonderful to find your website. I am heading to Scotland in a few weeks and have been gathering info to take with me as I hope to get to the archives for a few hours. I descend from James McCreath and Isabella Dinnan (Grace Todd McCreath—James McCreath Gray—Agnes Gray—Donald Wilkins (my dad)).
    Have you had your DNA tested? I tested my dad before he passed, at FamilyTreeDNA and I have mine at all the main sites. It would be interesting to try and hone in on the McCreath DNA! I have only one photo of James McCreath Gray (I think in Piper’s regalia?) and have his belt buckle. I found your site as I was trying to find more info about the Fisherton Inn, which James ran, and Dunure Castle, where the family is enumerated in 1841. Thanks for sharing all your hard work!

    1. Hi Kim. Many thanks for being in touch – and for you kind comments about the site. Apologies for the delay in replying. I was in hospital for an extended period earlier this year and it has taken time for me to regain physical fitness and to catch up on correspondence etc. The main thing is that now all is well and I can engage once more with matters genealogical.

      I’ll send you an e-mail to make it easier to maintain a conversation.

      Best regards

      Douglas

      Have you had your trip to Scotland?

  29. Hi Douglas, there is a discrepancy in the date of birth of Leslie John McCreath, born 1952, there are 2 records that he was born in 1951 and 1952, strange I know. My middle name is Bonnie, born Nelson NZ in 1978. My son James Andrew McCreath is missing from the list Born Christchurch 2000. Leslie John McCreath (Jnr) Has four sons,and 2 daughters. Tyler Leslie John McCreath, born 25 June 1997, Christchurch, Dontaye Jay Eric was Born 21st April 1999. I will come back to you with more information.Leslie John McCreath and Gloria Mary Porter where married in Auckland on the 21st February 1975. They had 4 children together Leslie John (Jnr) 18 August 1975, Auckland, Andre James McCreath 10 January 1977, Christchurch, myself and Sheree Maire McCreath 22nd December 1979 Auckland. Andre James McCreath has four sons, Jared Andre McCreath, born Christchurch 27 November 1998, Brody Jay McCreath, Christchurch 22nd April 2000, To Emma Louise Blunden born 1976. Hunter McCreath and Arden McCreath born Oamaru. Sheree Maire McCreath, son to Jamie Francis Stewart, Married, don’t have the date, one son Jayden Jamie Stewart McCreath, July 2003. I will come back to you with more information, thanks

    1. Hi Karen,
      Thanks for being in touch. One of the reasons for the website was the hope that family members would correct errors and/or add information – and possibly photos. I’d be grateful if you could point out the mistakes so that I can update the site. Best regards. Douglas

  30. Dear Mr McCreath

    I was going through some old photos in my loft last weekend. I came across two photos from my father’s collection of photos that may interest you. Please email me and I can email you scanned copies and also what is written on the back of each.

    Many thanks.

    1. I am in hospital at the moment recovering grom a fairly extensive operation. Happily improving by the day.

      Your message has brightened my day.

      Best regards

      PS Personal e-mail sent.

  31. Hello Douglas, I came across your site quite by chance while trying to research my paternal grandfather , Ernesto Valente, who features in a wedding photograph on your site . I really know very little about him, other than he lived in the Leven area , had a shop on Scoonie Road, I do have a photograph of him , given to my father as a child. As your photograph suggests he was a close friend of the Visocchi family and I wondered if any living relatives of the family could provide any further information. I realise I am looking for information dating back to the 1920’s but anything you might be able to glean would be so greatly appreciated. Kindest Regards Jane .

    1. Hi Douglas,

      Feel free to use the the image you are interested in. I am particularly interested in the 6th and 7th Battalions in WW2.

      Could you make a link back from the Friends and Family site to my site in the hope that it would stimulate interest from families whose relatives served especially with the 7th – my Dad’s Battalion.

      The link is

      https://mccreathfamily.scot/cameronians/

      Best regards

      Douglas

      PS I am unlikely to be at the February Meeting as I’ve been in hospital since Christmas Eve and unlikely to be discharged before then.

  32. Hi Douglas,

    Amazing website, I had no idea how many relatives I had! I’m Jude McCreath grandson of Michael McCreath and Carole McCreath. If there’s any information you need to do with our bit of the family then I’d be happy to help.

    1. Hi Jude, Great to hear from you. I met your grandparents a few years ago when they visited Glasgow. We keep in touch. I would be more than grateful for your help in confirming/correcting details, adding biographical details inc. occupations, and if you can put your hand on any photographs (esp. wedding photos).

      Thanks in anticipation
      Douglas

    1. Good morning Sheree,

      Many thanks indeed for getting in touch.

      I would be grateful were you able to correct the information about Leslie John McCreath. One of the reasons that I have been working on the website is the hope that others will look at it and find the errors – as you have done,

      Looking forward to hearing from you

      Best regards

  33. Hi, I am Helen grand daughter of Giulio Fugaccia and loved your article about his shop in Stromness . He was a colourful character and an entrepreneur owning several businesses over the years. I had been to Stromness several times only to find the shop closed and in disrepair, however in 2008 you can imagine my absolute delight to find the shop open and beautifully preserved by the shop owner Elaine that you met. The inspiration on seeing my grandfather’s shop led me to establish a jewellery business of my own which includes the Fugaccia Collection so that our name still lives on-www.scozzese-design-jewellery.co.uk

    1. Hi Helen, What a great surprise and pleasure to hear from you. I’d be more than grateful if you would be willing to share some of your grandfather’s story.

      Best regards

      Douglas

  34. HI Douglas, I have just discovered your website – what an amazing wealth of information. I am Ann Stewardson – Robin Arkle’s sister in law. We met at his funeral and chatted about family history . I am spending a very wet day reading your web pages, and adding info to the Arkle tree I am compiling on Ancestry. I am seeing your cousin Doug soon, so shall show him your site too.
    All the very best
    Ann

    1. Hi Ann, Great to hear from you. Conscious of the fact that most of my genealogy stuff was hidden in files, I have been building the site as a means of sharing my findings. I have been remiss in not being in touch with Doug but your e-mail will jog me into action. Pass on my best regards to him when you meet, Keep in touch. Best regards, Douglas.

      1. Hi Douglas,
        Thanks for your reply (only just seen, as didn’t spot an email reminder). Will pass on you regards to Doug. No doubt I shall be pestering you soon about the tree!

        Regards
        Ann

  35. Hello my name is Nicola Margaret McQuaid nee Tulloch 5th child of Margaret Beryl Tulloch nee McCreath .. I married Eugene in 1995 and we divorced in 2007. I have one daughter Ciara Elizabeth McQuaid born 21 July 1996. I am a bid writer for a construction company but soon to change jobs and will be working for Liverpool University. If there is any further info you need please don’t hesitate to contact me.
    Kindest regards
    Niki

    1. Good morning Niki, Many thanks for being in touch. Did you hear of the site from Jackie Medicks? Some brief biographical details of your parents would be most welcome.
      Best regards
      Douglas

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