Welcome to Scottish Indexes
Scottish Indexes is a family-run business based in central Scotland. Graham first set up Maxwell Ancestry in 1996, and in 2001 his wife Emma joined the team. From those early days, the pair have been indexing records to help you trace your Scottish family tree from anywhere in the world.
In 2014 they launched Scottish Indexes, bringing a growing collection of Scottish genealogy records online. The aim has always been the same: to help you research your own family history. Graham and Emma know how rewarding it is to uncover your past, and they believe most people want to be the detective in their own family story.
Sometimes, though, you need help to access an original record here in Scotland or guidance from someone with experience. That is where professional help makes a difference, not to take over but to support your research.
Genealogical research has changed dramatically since the early days of the business. Once, staff at the General Register Office brought original books to your desk and you would work through them page by page. Later, microfiche protected the books but slowed the process. Today, digital images have transformed research, giving more time to analyse records and add detail to family trees.
Alongside an index to thousands of historical records, Graham and Emma have created a Learning Zone where you can build your genealogy skills. From a beginner's guide to High Court records to a comprehensive overview of Scottish asylum archives, you will find practical help for every stage of your research.
Scottish Indexes also hosts the Scottish Indexes Conference, a free international online event bringing together family historians, archivists and experts from around the world. Since 2020 the conferences have helped thousands of researchers learn new skills, discover new sources and connect with the wider genealogy community.
In 2025 Emma appeared on the TV show Who Do You Think You Are?, sharing her expertise in Scottish criminal records and demonstrating how these sources can unlock remarkable stories. Her work on the programme reflects the depth of knowledge that underpins Scottish Indexes and the commitment to making complex records accessible to all.
At the heart of Scottish Indexes is a couple who want to help you trace your Scottish family tree. If you have any questions, contact them and ask!
To keep up-to-date, you can follow Scottish Indexes on Facebook @scottish.indexes.
