I am new to genealogy and have started tracing my grandmothers family line (STEWART). To date I have managed to find out some interesting information. However, I seem to now be stuck beyond belief. The people who are causing me grief are James Dow STEWART, b. at ?Durham, England, circa 1840, d. 26/08/1909 at Old Machar, Aberdeen. He was married to Ann EWEN or GRANT, b. at ?Montrose, Angus, circa 1845. Following their marriage I believe they had children by the name of Mary (b.1870), Alice (b.1872), John McLeod (b.1875), Richard (b.1878), Margaret Clyde (b.1881), Thomas Clyde (b.1883) and Ann (b.1886).

Ann EWEN or GRANT (daughter of Richard GRANT and Mary BEGG) previously married John EWEN/EWAN (nfd) on 31/12/1846 at Old Machar, Aberdeen. However, I believe he was killed during WW1 – he was a soldier in 78th Highlanders.

James Dow STEWART was the son of John McLeod STEWART (nfd) and Alice FAIRBROTHER (nfd). I am almost certain James Dow STEWART was not an only child.

The STEWARTS were generally all Carpet Weavers/Mill Workers and have heavy connections to Gordons Mills in Aberdeen having lived at Bush Cottage there. That said this does nothing to explain the place of birth for James Dow STEWART being Durham!

Things I am looking to find out (not exhaustive);
• DOB/POB James Dow STEWART;
• Siblings of James Dow STEWART;
• DOB/POB/DOM/DOD John McLeod STEWART & Alice FAIRBROTHER.

I am by no means looking for people to do the research on my behalf – as little as hints would be ideal! I am using Scotlands People website as well as Ancestry (Premium); are there any others which I should be using? I am more than happy to do the work just don’t know if I am doing the right thing!

Thank you!

AES