Migration Project
The Migration Project helps Clan MacLeod Society, USA members begin researching their Scottish ancestry by providing access to genealogy resources, historical information, and research links. It gives members a head start in exploring ties to their ancient Scottish Highland clan. While the Society does not conduct individual genealogy research, it offers guidance and educational tools to support members exploring their connections to Clan MacLeod and its associated Septs.
Preserving Scottish Heritage
Clan MacLeod Society, USA, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditions and heritage of Americans of Scottish ancestry, particularly MacLeods and their Septs. The Migration Project traces the journeys of our ancestors through volunteer-led initiatives that connect members with valuable genealogical resources. All Migration Project activities are carried out by volunteers, and we hope members find these resources helpful.
Worldwide Genealogy Database
The Associated Clan MacLeod Societies (ACMS) Genealogical Resources Center is a worldwide online database created by MacLeods and Clan Septs. The database is built from research submitted by members and other contributors, allowing families to share information that may assist others in tracing their ancestry. The database is supported by Andrew P. MacLeod, ACMS Genealogist specializing in Scottish records, and Annie McLeod, Migration Director for Clan MacLeod Society, USA.
Family History Database
Extensive Family Records
Clan MacLeod Society, USA, maintains its family history database on the same server as the ACMS and other national Clan MacLeod societies. It includes more than 24,000 records representing over 350 family groups.
Research Information
The database is built from member and contributor submissions. Since the Society does not independently verify or document each record, accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Members seeking additional details should contact the original sources directly. To contribute information to the Migration Project, complete the Migration Project Questionnaire/Form and submit it directly to Annie McLeod.
Documentation Resources
Taos Public Library Rare Book Collection
The Society's rare book collection is housed at the Taos Public Library in Taos, New Mexico. The collection includes books and periodicals covering:
- Clan MacLeod history
- Genealogy
- Military history
- Scottish songs
- Highland locations
- Scottish clans
- Related historical topics
The collection is available through an interlibrary loan service. Members should request materials through their local library, which will coordinate borrowing with the Taos Public Library. This process allows both libraries to track the materials and helps ensure books are returned properly.
For lending library information, contact:
Judith Bronner
Interlibrary Loan Librarian
Taos Public Library
402 Camino de la Placita
Taos, NM 87571
Phone: (505) 758-3063
Fax: (505) 737-2587
Email
Old Dominion University Library
The Perry Library Special Collections at Old Dominion University preserves Clan MacLeod Society, USA records, including meeting minutes, proceedings, genealogical materials, and business papers. Researchers are encouraged to call, write, or email before visiting to help the university prepare for their research needs.
Old Dominion University
Perry Library Special Collections
Norfolk, VA 23529-026
Phone: (757) 683-4483
Fax: (757) 683-5954
Email
Migration Project Support
The Migration Project includes both worldwide initiatives maintained by the Associated Clan MacLeod Societies (ACMS) and projects managed by individual national Clan MacLeod societies. Members with comments or suggestions about the genealogy section of the website are encouraged to contact Annie McLeod, Migration Director for Clan MacLeod Society, USA.
DNA Research Project
The Associated Clan MacLeod Societies (ACMS) partnered with researchers at University College London to conduct a worldwide DNA study involving more than 500 MacLeod participants. Completed in January 2003, the study explored:
- Whether individuals with the MacLeod surname could be traced to a common ancestor living around the time of Leod.
- Whether the clan's traditional Viking origin could be supported through genetic research.
Following the University College London project, additional DNA research began through FamilyTreeDNA and later expanded into two ongoing studies:
- MacLeod Surname Study for male MacLeods (all spellings).
- MacLeod Septs Surname Study for males with recognized Sept surnames.
Both studies continue to welcome new participants. The study websites provide project details, current DNA results, and Join Request links for ordering DNA tests at reduced group rates.
Become Part of Our Heritage
Celebrate Scottish heritage while accessing member resources, events, publications, and genealogy opportunities.