About Ictis Heritage Research
Who We Are
Ictis Heritage Research is an independent historical and heritage research consultancy led by Alasdair MacIlleathain. The business specialises in uncovering the hidden stories of places, buildings, communities, and families through professional, evidence-based research.
The name Ictis reflects the ancient trading centre described by the Greek historian Diodorus Siculus, linking the South West of Britain to international trade in tin long before the Roman period. This connection embodies the mission of Ictis Heritage Research: to reveal the overlooked, underappreciated, and fascinating histories that shape our understanding of the past.
About Alasdair MacIlleathain
Alasdair MacIlleathain is a historian, writer, and public historian with a passion for uncovering the rich local histories hidden in everyday landscapes. His work spans Ancient, Medieval, and Local History, focusing on the stories of people, communities, and places that are often overlooked.
He holds a BA in History and Ancient History and an MA in Classics and Ancient History, and is completing a PhD in Classics and Ancient History, researching Roman slavery in Roman comedy. This academic background provides strong skills in research, analysis, and historical writing, alongside a deep understanding of how historical evidence is gathered, interpreted, and presented.
Our Approach
Ictis Heritage Research believes history should be accessible, relevant, and engaging. Our approach focuses on:
- Producing well-researched and evidence-based reports
- Presenting historical research in a clear, structured, and readable format
- Supporting local and community heritage projects
- Delivering accessible public talks and lectures
- Making history meaningful for individuals, communities, and organisations
Whether tracing family history, exploring the history of a building, or examining the development of a town or village, Ictis Heritage Research aims to make historical research understandable and useful to a wide audience.
What We Do
Ictis Heritage Research offers a range of professional historical services:
- Genealogy Research: tracing family history and producing structured ancestry reports
- Building & Place Research: investigating the history and development of properties, buildings, and settlements
- Local History Research: exploring the history of towns, villages, parishes, and communities
- Public Talks: delivering engaging and evidence-based lectures for community groups, societies, and events
- Research Reports / Portfolio: providing professional, accessible documentation of historical research
- Writing and Publications: producing clear, well-researched historical writing for various audiences
- Heritage Interpretation and Display: provides heritage interpretation and display services designed to present historical research in clear, engaging, and accessible ways for public audiences.
All services are tailored to client needs, whether for personal interest, academic research, heritage projects, or community engagement.
Why We Do It
History helps us understand who we are, where we come from, and how communities have developed. Local and place-based history connects people to their surroundings, while evidence-based research preserves heritage for future generations.
Ictis Heritage Research is driven by the belief that historical research should be accessible, engaging, and relevant, not confined to academic journals or specialist audiences.
Work With Us
Ictis Heritage Research is available for historical research projects, reports, public talks, writing commissions, and heritage consultancy.
To discuss a project, commission, or talk, please visit the Contact Page or email:
ictisheritageresearch@gmail.com
Ictis Heritage Research - Alasdair MacIlleathain 