Before you go…
It’s important to be properly prepared for a trip to search in a graveyard.
Speak to any of your relatives who may know the whereabouts of family graves. There may be someone who has plot records or other related paperwork, like funeral programmes, newspaper clippings, or copies of undertakers’ documents. Your relatives might even be able to show you where some of the family burial sites are.
Having the right equipment is crucial. I would advise you to choose footwear appropriate for rough terrain, especially if you aren’t familiar with a particular cemetery. Many burial grounds can be overgrown and somewhat insect-infested, so clothing that keeps your skin covered is a good idea. Insect repellent can also be useful, especially in Scotland, where midges are a particular hazard. If you’re planning to spend a reasonable amount of time walking around, take plenty of water to drink. A notepad and pen/pencil, smartphone, or camera is essential. Make sure any electronic devices you plan to use are fully charged, and just in case, take a charger and/or cable with you. See the section on page 53 about recording headstones for more on the best methods and equipment to use.
