ToWhom It May Concern,

For the past few years I have been researching my LESLIE family history. A few years ago, I discovered some old photos of my Grandfather, WILLIAM LESLIE, in the uniform of the 1/6th Seaforth Highlanders, Morayshire Battalion (TF). Like most young men, he went to war in 1914. However, he was one of the lucky ones and survived. William Leslie spent many summers growing up in Archiestown and likely recuperated from the war in this area.

Since I discovered these photos, my family history has become a quiet obsession. So far, I have been able to definitively trace a common Leslie line back to about the late 1700's and early 1800's, including three generations of William Leslie's. I believe Archibald Leslie was the fourth generation born about 1800 and prior to that was Alexander Leslie. Corgyle Elchies and Boharm seem to be common threads in my research. Most of my ancestors were farmers or labourers. However, one in particular was an innkeeper in Rothes; William Ross. I am also aware of a distant relative, Tom Ross, who emigrated to New Zealand early in the 20th century.

The most recent information I have uncovered is on Helen Ann Leslie and Margaret Leslie. They were my Dad's last known relatives to be living in the Moray County. Margaret lived in Elgin and died there in 1979. Helen resided in Archiestown at "Ardmilne", a cottage that had been in my father's family for generations. Helen or Nellie, as she was affectionately known, died in 1975. When Nellie died in 1975, my father had to sell his old cottage "Ardmilne".

I am seeking any information on Leslie and Ross that lived in Knockando, Archiestown, Craigellachie, Rothes, Boharm, etc. Any information on "Ardmilne" would also be very much appreciated.

Thank you in advance.

Stephen Leslie,
Guelph, Ontario, Canada

PS: As for me, I was born in Scotland, but my family emigrated to Canada in 1969 when I was 8 years old. I have lived here since, but make regular visits to Scotland.