Stirling Council Archives has a wonderfully diverse collection of records from the heart of Scotland that can be used for all kinds of research including local and family history.

Beginning with the records of Stirling Burgh, dating from the 14th century, the Archives holds the records of local administration through its various incarnations up to the present day. Alongside this are records of the Established Church and of other denominations, the Presbytery of Stirling having the oldest surviving minute book in the country, and the marvellous Kirk Session court minutes for each parish with their often scandalous details of local life. We also hold Parochial Board and Parish Council records for all the parishes of the Stirling area dating from the mid nineteenth century rich in fascinating and detailed information. There are records of the Justices of the Peace, Customs and Excise records for the ports of Stirling and Alloa, and school logbooks and admission registers.

Alongside the official records the Council Archives acts as a repository for the community holding a wealth of deposits from private individuals and local organisations of all kinds. We have some fine family collections and estate papers, records of sports clubs and Women’s Rural Institutes, a lovely collection relating to the Guildry or Merchant’s Guild of Stirling and the Incorporated Trades associations. There is so much that is interesting and unique that the list of what is best here could go on for a very long time. I hope that your readers will take the time to come and visit to find out more about this lovely and deeply historic part of Scotland. Access to the records is free to visitors and we also run a research service for those unable to make a visit. You are guaranteed a warm and friendly welcome from our professionally qualified staff who are always on hand to offer advice and guidance.