The research of the Bell and Armstrong families in Australia reveals a close interrelationship that existed not only where they settled in their new country, but also an interweaving of several clans in Scotland. The close relationships that developed through historic connections, geographical proximity and intermarriages should not have been so surprising.  

It was the Scottish immigrants who generally commanded the commercial and pastoral activities in Victoria throughout the 1800's. This website seeks to demonstrate the family, religious and political connections that contributed to their success in Australia.

Surnames        Family surnames include Bell, Armstrong, Thomson, Beattie, Calvert, Howatson, Chirnside, Leslie, Rogerson, Russell, Horton, Irvine, Johnstone and Carlisle. Some recur through generations, both in Scotland and Australia. Some are coincidental and unrelated, but the frequency of the various connections between Bell, Armstrong, and Thomson (in Scotland and Australia) and Sutherland (in Australia) families is often striking.

First names    Family first names including Alexander, William, John, James, George, Lewis and Robert, Elizabeth, Mary, Jean, Anne, Margaretta, Letitia and Euphemia (Effie) are indicative of the times, but also lend to strong family connections.

History in Dumfriesshire    The families lived in the Annan area of Dumfriesshire, on the Solway Firth. Annan was a market town for the rich farming land of the area. It was also a port and shipbuilding area, and a major point for emigration.