The Gazetteer for Scotland and Historical Geographies: Tying Historical Information to the Geography of Scotland

Abstract

Historical geographies are of key importance to people researching genealogy. However, it is very difficult to find any easily accessible interactive map-based historical geography on the Web. This study therefore focused on how historical geographies could be included in the Gazetteer for Scotland (GfS) Website to provide a new Internet-based historical resource to the general public that ties historical information to the geography of Scotland.

A mash-up between Google Maps, GfS data, Statistical Accounts for Scotland data and the 1951 parish and county boundaries of Scotland was implemented to provide a comprehensive source of historical data linked to contemporary maps. User-requirements, performance and accuracy of the data were all considered in the design, implementation and analysis of this project.

User feedback has shown that the inclusion of historical geographies into the GfS has been a beneficial exercise that will have a positive contribution to those studying their Scottish genealogical roots and promote a better understanding of the complex changes which have taken place to administrative boundaries in Scotland.