Author: cellaradmin

1900

There are now 360 Scotch Luggers working at Yarmouth, and a Lowestoft 250 Scots boats working. …..Lowestoft …There was a fair round haul for Scots boats on Saturday, The KY Ina Cook had between 70- and 80 crans, KY Paragon and BF Busy Bee 60 to 80 crans. The Cellardyke boat Vanguard had fully 180 crans and got 16s per cran (this was Andrew Henderson’s first season at Lowestoft with hie new boat the Ina Cook)

Great Demonstration the Coast in Honour of Mr Anstruther, M.P.

Mr Anstruther, M.P., met his supporters in the Anstruthers and Cellardyke on Wednesday evening in East Anstruther Town Hall. A great surprise awaited Mr Anstruther on his arrival. Previous to entering the town he was met by a large and enthusiastic crowd, who took possession of his carriage, turned out the horses, and paraded the streets of Cellardyke, Anstruther-Easter, and Anstruther-Wester with the carriage in which Mr Anstruther was seated. All along the route large crowds turned out and cheered vociferously, Mr Anstruther responding. On reaching the hall Mr Anstruther was seized and carried into the Council Chambers. Meantime a large and enthusiastic crowd had gathered in the hall to wait his arrival. On entering the hall, he was received with loud and prolonged cheering. Accompanying Mr Anstruther to the platform were—George Darsie, Esq., Johnston Lodge, president of the Unionist Association; Drs Ferguson and Wilson, Bailies Butters, Cellardyke, and Scott, Anstruther-Wester; Messrs Marr, Scott, Stewart, Urquhart, Cairns, Morris, Peebles, and Mr T. D. Murray, solicitor, agent for Mr Anstruther. Mr Darsie, who was received with loud applause, on behalf of those present presented their congratulations to Mr Anstruther, also to Mrs Anstruther, on the result of the election, which would help to strengthen the Unionist Government. (Cheers.) Mr Anstruthcr, in acknowledging, expressed regret that Mrs Anstruther was not present to see the grand reception they had given him, but he could assure them her thoughts were with them that evening, and that none would be more delighted than she to hear of their enthusiasm.  Referring to the recent contest, Mr Anstruther said he would not take notice of any of the personal remarks made about himself, but would merely say —He laughed best who laughed last. (Loud applause.) As that ought to be a meeting of thanksgiving, he took the opportunity of thanking all who had contributed to his return. Special praise was due to the President and Vice-President of the local Unionist Association, the latter being, Mr Anstruther said, one of the best political organisers in Scotland. (Loud applause.)  It was unfortunate for the electors in the coast that the election happened when so many of his Cellardyke supporters were from home. He concluded by appealing to them not to let the enthusiasm shown that night die out, but now that the election was past, they would keep alive and increase the strong Unionist sentiment that at present pervaded these burghs. (Loud applause.) A vote of hearty thanks was awarded the new Member.  It was intimated that a soiree would be held about the end of November. (Great cheering.)  On Mr Marr rising to propose three cheers for their new Member, he was received with prolonged cheering. His call was heartily responded to, the audience rising and singing “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” A vote of thanks having been awarded the Chairman, the meeting was brought a close with the singing of the National Anthem. Mr Anstruther was escorted to the hotel by a large crowd, who gave him a hearty send-off. The reception and the whole proceedings from beginning to end have never been equalled in this district. 

CELLARDYKE HARBOUR.  VISIT OF FISHERY BOARD OFFICIAL.  Yesterday afternoon Mr Angus Sutherland, the chairman the Fishery Board, arrived Anstruther by the s.s. Brenda and had interview with Provost Thomson and other members of Kilrenny Town Council regard to the position of Cellardyke Harbour. Mr Sutherland  intimated that Provost Welch, St Andrews, who held an inquiry about the harbour some time  ago, had sent in a favourable report, and the Fishery Board had practically agreed to give a grant of £1000 if the other money necessary for the proper repair the harbour was raised locally, and that the Town Council obtained a  Provisional Order in next session of Parliament, and got legal power to enact shore and harbour dues from the fishermen using the harbour after its restoration, and thus provide a revenue for its upkeep the future. Provost Thomson and the Council willingly consented to the conditions, and Mr Sutherland promised the Council to let them have an official notification from the Board at their next meeting. Provost Thomson suitably thanked Mr Sutherland and the Fishery Board for the interest they had displayed in Cellardyke and its harbour.

CELLARDYKE TOWN COUNCIL. At a meeting of Kilrenny Town Council on Monday afternoon, a Committee was appointed to meet Messrs Watson & Co., to make the best terms possible for the ground to be given in taking down a building in the Urquhart Wynd, and putting it further back. It was agreed to hold a nomination meeting tonight at 8.30. Mr Melville pointed out that the road at the back of the town was in a deplorable state after the drainage operations, and it was almost impossible for carts to get along. It was reported that sand and earth was being put down, and the road was being attended to.

Pavior  wanted, Apply 3 shore street Cellardyke

Concert. —A highly successful concert was held in Kilrenny School on Friday evening in aid of the playground improvement. The first part consisted of action songs, recitations, tambourine drill, and dance movements by the scholars, and their performance was highly creditable, both to teachers and scholars. The second part consisted of solos, recitations, and a violin solo, the last named being given by Miss Melville, Cellardyke, in an artistic and highly accomplished manner. The accompanists to the various performers were Misses Gibb. Melville, and Rennie. Where all performed efficiently individual criticism is unnecessary, but special mention must be made of Mr Paton’s recitation, who, notwithstanding the fact that he has seen 76 years, cannot equalled an exponent of Burns’ song and story in the district.

1901

GALLANT RESCUE AT YARMOUTH. James Peterson Wallace. A Cellardyke fisherman belonging to the Fife boat Morning Star, effected a most gallant rescue from drowning of a boy in Yarmouth Harbour. The Morning Star was moored opposite the Fish Warf when the alarm was raised. The boy had fallen over the quay, passed beneath the keel of a steamer, and rose to the surface again some eighty yards down the harbour. Wallace. hearing shouts from the crowded fish market, though wearing sea boots and heavy clothing, unhesitatingly plunged into the water and saved the boy who seemed dead.  The Morning Star Crew took the lad below, and after prolonged exertions restored him to consciousness.  Representations are being made to the Royal Humane Society to recognise Wallace’s heroic act. He was cheered by hundreds of admiring spectators.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, THE WATER FAMINE.  Sir, —It is stated on good authority this week, that there is a few inches of water in the old reservoir, and none at all in the new, so we may say we are within a very short time of a water famine in reality. I have seen it stated by your correspondents that there is a supply to be had at Lochty. This, of course, cannot be obtained in a days’ notice, but our water authorities will show very great slackness if they allow another summer to arrive without doing their very best to increase the supply from this source. The position of matters at present is, however, what we have to deal with, and the Water Committee should open negotiations without a days’ delay for a supply for the two Anstruthers from Cellardyke reservoir, and allow Pittenweem to have what is still left in the Ovenstone reservoir until the long-expected flood comes. I am, &c.  Urgency

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Many Thanks

1916

CELLARDYKE Parish Church. —ln accordance with his appointment by the Presbytery of St Andrews, the Rev. Mr Munn, Forgan, occupied the pulpit of Cellardyke Parish Church on Sunday, and formally declared the charge vacant. 

Flounder Net Fishing. —As a living cannot meantime be made (says the “Fishing News”) at the small line fishing in the Firth of Forth, motor yawls belonging to Cellardyke, St Monans, Pittenweem, and Buckhaven have removed to Aberdeen to engage in flounder net fishing. Unfortunately, however, weather conditions lately have not been very favourable for this method of fishing, which cannot be followed when any swell is running. Nevertheless, some good hits have been made this week. Shots have realised as much as £40, but have also fallen as low as £1. 

The Stranded Steamer. The steamer Streathan, which went ashore opposite Kilrenny Mill, Cellardyke, while on a voyage from the Tyne to Leith, a fortnight ago, still lies high and dry on the rocks. She has been lightened considerably by the discharging of a large quantity of coal, while some of the rock on which she rests has been removed. With a recurrence to high tides this week, should the weather remain favourable, it is hoped that she may yet be got off within the next few days.

Sequel to Rev Ray’s Departure. The first sequel to Mr Ray’s departure, from a public point of view, was evidenced last night, when a meeting of Kilrenny School Board fell to be held. The only members who put in an appearance were the Chairman (Provost Black) and Mr J. Thomson and as this did not constitute the requisite quorum the meeting had to be adjourned until a more convenient season. Before he left the district Mr Ray was a regular attender at both School Board and Parish Council meetings, and it is seldom that these have had to be adjourned for want of a quorum.

Fishermen to be Called Up. —The Board of Agriculture and Fisheries publish a notification that fishing is to be removed from the list of certified occupations, and that after November 1 certificates of exemption granted to fishermen cease to have effect. Fishermen will be required to enrol in a naval unit or become liable for service under the Military Service Act.  Fishermen who enrol in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve section will be able to continue their occupation, and will not be called up for service without the concurrence of the Central Fishery Department of England and Scotland. 

An Anstruther Man’s Experiences of a Zepp. Raid.—Mr Alex. Thomson, son of Mr Thomson, James Street, Cellardyke, and who is an old “Record” apprentice now located in Bush Hill Park, London, writing to his father and mother gives some interesting experiences of the recent Zepp. raid in London, in the course of which he says: —”l am trembling all over with excitement. We knew the, Zepps were about, and presently hearing the firing, there was the great Zepp right opposite our window. We watched the firing for some time and the searchlights playing on it, and it was so clear and so near that we watched the fight in the air for about ten minutes. You could hear the rattling of the machinery and see the shrapnel bursting all around the Zepp. A red light showed in the sky just above the Zepp., and we knew that an aeroplane was near it, and the firing stopped. There were a few quick shots, and the Zepp. burst into flames. It was a sight I shall never forget. The sky was like a great furnace, and lit our room like daylight. Everybody was yelling, and the youngsters were shouting like mad.  What a glare! What a sight: You can’t imagine what it was like. It is about one o’clock in the morning, and people are all about as if it were afternoon. It has come down not very far from us, right opposite our windows.

CELLARDYKE CONGREGATION’S AWKWARD PREDICAMENT.  Owing to a breakdown of the motor car in which was travelling from St Andrews to Conduct the services in Cellardyke Parish Church on Sunday, the Rev. Professor Galloway, D.D., did not arrive till about an hour after the prescribed time for the service to begin.  This put the congregation in a very awkward predicament. Ultimately one of the elders, Mr David Smith, appeared and, stating the cause of the minister’s non-appearance, gave out the first hymn, which was sung by the congregation. It was about twelve o’clock before the Professor arrived in another motor car that  had been requisitioned, and the usual service was gone through.  One of the hymns sung—” Come unto Me, ye weary ” —had special significance.

1917

LATEST SCOTTISH CASUALTIES.  The following are among the latest Scottish casualties reported:— 

Second Mate R. Wallace. R.N.R., Cellardyke, has died in Mesopotamia of fever. 

Wounded

Gunner James Burd R.F.A., eldest son of Bailie Burd, Anstruther, and Private Andrew Dick, Watch, Forth Street, Cellardyke, are reported wounded.

1918

Mr David Bruce, inspector of poor, Cellardyke, has been appointed local Fuel Overseer for the burghs of Anstruther-Easter, Anstruther-Wester, and Kilrenny. 

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS.  The following firms have been successful in securing new Government contracts: — Clothing, Oilskin—Martin & Co. Cellardyke; R. Watson & Co. Anstruther

CELLARDYKE SAILOR DIES OF INFLUENZA.  Seaman Robert Thomson, son of the late Mr Alexander Thomson, fisherman, Cellardyke, has died in Plymouth hospital of influenza.  Seaman Thomson, who was only home on leave a fortnight ago, was a recorder in the Admiralty service when war broke out, and at once joined up as a seaman in an auxiliary cruiser.  He was 35 years of age, and leaves a widow and one child. A brother of the deceased’s, Lance-Corporal John Thomson, A. and S. Highlanders, died of wounds on 9th June of this year, while the father, Mr Alexander Thomson, died from heart trouble on the 19th of the same month. Other two sons of this family are now on active service.

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Our Account is called “The Cellardyke Trust (SCIO)”, Sort Code 83-15-08 – Acc No 00128815

Many Thanks

1911

JAMES FORTUNE

HAVING decided to remove to the more Central Premises at 44 SHORE STREET, ANSTRUTHER, the whole of the large Stock in Cellardyke will be exposed for Sale. SWEEPING REDUCTIONS IN EVERYTHING. FLANNELS, PLAIDINGS, FLANNELETTES, COTTONS, BLANKETS, SHEETS, QUILTS, BEDCOVERS, BED LINEN, TABLE COVERS, TABLE NAPERY, DRESS GOODS, PRINTS, BLOUSE LENGTHS, CRETONNES, READY-MADES, &c., &c. NOW is YOUR time to buy; never before has such a golden opportunity occurred to have your Winter Needs supplied at such a cheap rate.

James Fortune, 9 George Street, Cellardyke.

1912

Fishing Notes. —The local fleet engaged at the Yarmouth fishing were very fortunate last week, several good catches being landed. The week’s earnings ranged from £30 to £160, the latter sum being netted by the steam drifter, “Pride of Fife.” The crews of the drifters who were engaged later than their friends on the Yorkshire coast and were longer in returning home, failed to get away on Monday owing to the storm, but they all left on Wednesday.  Owing to the departure of not only men but women and children for Yarmouth, Cellardyke at present has a deserted appearance.

YARMOUTH WELCOME TO CELLARDYKE FOOTBALLER. —ln a recent issue of the Yarmouth Mercury appeared the following: —”Martin Gardner had a gratifying testimony to his popularity both as a man and as a player when he appeared for the Yarmouth F.C. for the first time this season on Saturday afternoon. The hearty cheers were never better deserved. We were right glad to welcome him. He and Malacouski are a genial pair of giants, and are the finest brace of backs we have ever had in the Club’s history. They seemed at once to understand each other, and when they have worked off some of the superfluous, they should be a very efficient pair. For a man who had just come from a fishing voyage, Gardner’s form was remarkable.” 

SCHOOL BOARD. —Provost Black presided at a meeting of this body held last night. Messrs Grubb and Thomson were also present. The officer reported that the attendance at both Cellardyke and Kilrenny schools were better than last year. He reported, however, that 37 pupils had been taken off the roll as they had gone to Yarmouth. The Board regretted this decrease in the roll, as it invokes a diminution of the attendance grants. It was decided to issue two attendance orders against parents whose two children, both over 14, had not been attending regularly. In regard to other cases, the officer was instructed to report within ten days, when if there is no improvement, a special meeting of the Board will be called to deal with the defaulters. Mr Thomson was appointed to represent the Board at a meeting of the Scottish School Boards Association to be held at Galashiels.  The Clerk reported receipt of the Government grants, which were higher than expected.

1913

MOTOR ACCIDENTS. —TWO motor accidents have occurred in this district this week, On Sunday afternoon a young Cellardyke lad named Peat, about 8 or 9 years of age, was knocked down by a motor car which was passing through Kilrenny. Fortunately, the car was proceeding slowly at the time, but as it was the lad had one of his ribs broken and was bruised.  He was removed to his home in Cellardyke.  No blame was attached to the driver of the car. On Tuesday evening, an accident occurred at the junction of Anstruther Farm Road, and the St Andrews Road, a cyclist Mr William Allan, goods Clerk, Anstruther. belonging to St Monans, colliding with a motor car. The bicycle was badly smashed, but Allan escaped with several bruises and cuts. The owners of the car motored him home to St Monans where he received medical attention.

THE LATE MR ALEXANDER CUNNINGHAM. — By the death of Mr Alexander Cunningham, which occurred st his residence 2 Ellice Street Cellardyke, the town has lost one of its oldest as well as one of its most respected sons. He had reached the ripe age of over 80 years, and had been in failing health for some time. Beginning life as a fisher lad, he, like many others of his day, went to seek his fortune when the gold fields of Australia beckoned to the youth of the Mother County. Unlike some, but like many others of his birth place, he was not successful, and after spending some years at Bendigo and other places, he returned home. For some time he sailed in the steam packet the “Forth” which plied between Anstruther and Leith, but eventually resumed his old calling. But line and net were not the only kinds of fishing in which he engaged. Like the disciples of old he was a fisher of men, and in the great revival of 1860, and indeed until years and diminished strength forbade, he was a zeal worker for his master. He was not only a good speaker, but was powerful and eloquent in prayer. On one occasion after a particularly poor summer fishing, there was a series of meetings held imploring the Divine blessing, and asking that success would attend the efforts of the fishermen who had gone South. Mr Cunningham, who presided at one of the meetings, prayed that while God had seen fit to give to give them bareness of teeth, he would not give them leanness of soul. In matters of right and wrong, he knew no comprise, and while some may have thought he was narrow, he always preached a free and full salvation, with a heart full of love and one that yearned after the souls of men. He was a devoted Free Churchman—for many years an office bearer in the Free Church. In politics he was a keen and enthusiastic Liberal. Mr Cunningham is survived by his aged wife for whom much sympathy is felt, and his three sons, Messrs Thomas, Alexander, and James Cunningham.  The funeral took place to Kilrenny on Sunday and was largely attended. Rev D. Mair conducted the service at the graveside. 

(Not to be confused with the boatbuilder, Alexander Cunningham, who also emigrated to Australia, butremai8ned there, passing away in 1935)

HERRING FISHING -YARMOUTH Thursday:  Lily and Maggie (70 crans) Carmi third (53 Crans) and White Cross (47 Crans) were best fished Scottish drifters today. All these boats hail from Cellardyke.  Generally, supply was disappointing. many boats having a few herrings only. Fresh fish, 35s to 36s per cran

1914

MESSAGE FROM THE AIR.  On Monday and Tuesday, several aeroplanes passed over Anstruther and Cellardyke, and their progress was followed by many interested eyes. On Tuesday, a message was dropped by one of them in a canvas bag with coloured streamers attached.  It was found by two Cellardyke boys, and eventually forwarded to the proper authorities.

During the past week, another ten men from Cellardyke have left to join the Naval Reserve, making about 40 from Cellardyke alone. From St Monans, there has also been a number of additional recruits since the first lot went off. The men have been sent on to Portsmouth.

 ANSTRUTHER NATIONAL RESERVE. To obtain a full parade of the members of the Anstruther National Reserve, it was decided to hold the weekly parades on Sunday mornings, and on Sunday the first parade was held in the Waid park.  Under Captain G. M. Black and Sergt. Ferguson, the members have improved rapidly, and now carry out the movements with creditable smartness and precision.

LOCAL INCIDENTS OF THE WAR.  FISHERMEN’S RESPONSE TO NAVAL APPEAL In the official gazette notices last week.  it was announced that Captain T. D. Murray, Anstruther, attached to the 4th (Dundee) Battalion Black Watch, had been promoted to the rank of Major (temporary).  Major Murray- has been on the sick list for a week, but has now returned to Dundee.  RECRUITS FOR NAVAL RESERVE Cellardyke young men are coming forward in response to the appeal for recruits for the Naval Reserve, and on Monday evening another 14 men left for Chatham.  Their departure with the 7.22 p.m. train was witnessed by a large crowd, who cheered lustily when the train drew out of the station. With the same train five men, from Pittenweem and two from St Monans also left for Chatham. Altogether, fully 60 men from Cellardyke are now with the Naval Reserve, and about 40 with the Territorials, a very creditable representation. 

CELLARDYKE “POSTIE” WOUNDED.  On Tuesday morning, Mrs David Brown, George Street, Cellardyke, received intimation that her husband. Private David Brown, Black Watch, who is popularly known in Cellardyke as the “Silent Postie,” had been wounded, evidently in the course of the apparently endless fight around the River Aisne, and had been removed to an hospital base. No information was given as to the nature of the wound, but it is the hope of all that Mrs Brown’s anxiety will soon be relieved with cheering intelligence that the wound is not dangerous, and that her husband will be invalided home. 

During the past week, there has been great activity shown by the hydroplanes in this district, and on Saturday and Sunday particularly the frequent passing of a hydroplane, flying close inshore, and often followed by a torpedo boat, was watched with interest all along the coast, with much speculation as to the reason of the movements. 

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Our Account is called “The Cellardyke Trust (SCIO)”, Sort Code 83-15-08 – Acc No 00128815

1887

DEATH OF A GIRL FROM BURNING.  Yesterday morning a little named Janet Murray, seven years of age, daughter of a fisherman residing in Cellardyke, was amusing herself with a box of matches in absence of her mother, one of them lighted and set fire to her nightdress. Running to the door she met bee father, who at once tore off the burning shirt and had her attended to. She lingered on till midnight, when she died. Her nervous system having been completely shattered.

Daughter of Thomas Murray (Blyth) – another report says she “she stepped so near one the grate as to set fire to her chemise. A wild scream brought her mother, without the loss of a moment to her side. She was enveloped in flames, but these were so speedily extinguished that it was hoped that she had not been fatally or even seriously injured.”

NOTICE TO FISHERMEN

PROVIDE YOUR BOATS WITH

Patent Safety STEERING GEAR.

NO TILLER TO KNOCK YOU OVERBOARD.  POWERFUL AND EASY TO WORK.

TESTIMONIAL

32 West Forth Street, Cellardyke.  After a little more experience with your STEERING GEAR, I have great confidence in same, as it is the safest and best mode of steering our boats, and does away with the tiller. It is powerful an easy to work, and no accident could occur such as tiller knocking anyone overboard, as was quite likely in the case in boat “Gem of the Sea,” Pittenweem.  ROBERT MONTADOR. 

Also, Makers of “CHAMPION” NET HAULER, CAPSTANS, MASTHEAD SHEAVES, and all FISHING BOAT REQUISITES.

W. L MITCHELL AND SON, ABBOTSHALL FOUNDRY, KIRKCALDY

ANSTRUTHER.  FISHERMEN ON THE BOARD. —Mr S. Williamson, M. P., in a letter to the on the reconstitution of the Fishery Board, deprecates the introduction of fishermen on the Board; but if fishermen are to be represented recommends as being well fitted for the post, Mr Charles Carstairs, fisherman, Cellardyke, and for the curing interest Mr David Murray, Anstruther. 

PHAETON, in good order, for SALE. Apply to JOHN MARTIN & CO.. Cellardyke.

CELLARDYKE. ACCIDENT. —On Saturday, while an elderly woman, Mrs Cunningham (Pratt), George St, Cellardyke, hanging up fish on a nail she turned faintish and fell, with the result that one of her arms was broken. The limb was set and is now progressing favourably.

CELLARDYKE SCHOOL THE PROSECUTION OF TRUANTERS.  Mr Forsyth, who was present, submitted a list of truanters. There were five bad cases, Andrew Reid, Thomas Muir, Wilson Birrell, Thomas Gardiner, and George, Doig, none of whom had made 39 out of a possible 114 attendances. It was resolved to prosecute the parents of Muir and Gardiner before the Sheriff, and to summon the other three parents before the Board in a fortnight.  In the case of John Gardiner, son of William Gardiner, it was resolved that having failed to get him into an industrial school, application should be made to the Mar’s Training Ship to get him taken there.

ACCOMMODATION IN CELLARDYKE PUBLIC SCHOOL.  A letter was read from Mr Barbour, in which he said he had to report that his school was full, and that during the last two weeks be had turned away several children. He had handed to the officer a list of over 25 children for whom he could find no room. The list was then gone over, and it appeared that over a dozen parents had promised to send their children to Kilrenny School on Monday, two to Crail, and fully 6 had refused to send them to Kilrenny. The officer was instructed to see whether all those who had promised fulfilled their promise on Monday by sending them to Kilrenny, and to warn those who had refused that the children must be sent to some school. ..

1888

Mr Fulton launched on Saturday, to the order of Skipper David Parker, one of the two large carvel built boats, built by him some time ago, and which have been laid up on the foreshore., both of the late additions to the fleet are being hurriedly fitted out for the south fishing, and are expected to be ready by the middle of next week. Owing to the short time given, the carpenters, sailmakers and smiths are obliged to work overtime to complete the outfit., Skipper Parker who had almost completed the sale of his other boat, only five years old to some crofter owners, has at last disposed of the same to Cellardyke owners for £180.

SAILING OF THE FISHING FLEET. —The East of Fife fishing fleet sailed on the first of the week for the autumn herring sea at Yarmouth and Lowestoft.  Between twenty and thirty boats had in the meantime arrived at Scarborough, but as a rule our hardy fishers prefer to take another Sabbath at home. The dense fogs which prevailed in the Firth on Monday induced most of the boats to wait for another tide or two, but although the weather was still far from inviting, the harbours were very nearly deserted in the course of the following day. In consequence of the little encouragement to hook and line not a single big boat is or will be left behind—the outfit between Cellardyke and St Monance being the highest on record viz., over 150 boats. They will be absent in the South till the third week of November. This autumn the fleet is reinforced by two first class boats at Pittenweem. 

THE SAILING OF THE BOATS FOR  THE SOUTH. 

THE ARRIVALS, &c.  This has been another stirring week in the fisher homes of Fife. Friend left friend on Sabbath with the remark, “Well sail aboot daylicht.” Inconsequence, however, of the dense fog only three boats weighed, and these came to anchor again in the offing, but the situation was so improved in the afternoon that boat after boat sped like the seamew on her voyage to the south. There was little more than time to take the bearings of this and that  signal light, for so well was the white thread, spun to leeward that the telegrams were by and by to hand telling how the Reindeer had run the distance between Anstruther and Scarborough in eighteen or nineteen hours, and that this and the other consort boat had got to Yarmouth about the same time next day. To east and west it was the same busy scene on the morrow, and so pleasantly did the breeze whistle at the yard arm that as an instance in point the “Rob the Ranter,” that sailed from Anstruther in the twilight of Tuesday, arrived in Gorleston, as the laughing wives told you on the doorstep, at 9a.m. on Thursday.  if you had chanced to wend your way in the middle of the week between Cellardyke and St Monance you would have found the harbours as deserted, or nearly so, as they were a month ago when the fleet was away in the North. This season there are two additions in the case of the new boats in the Pittenweem squadron, but they merely replace the others.  i.e. the Eclipse, sold to Skipper John Boyter, and the Storm King, sailed in the meantime by Skipper Harry Reeves, also of Cellardyke. Here again the fleet is the same, as the boats in question merely take the place of one left on the beach, and the favourite deep-sea yacht, Jessies, owned by the late Skipper James Brunton, which was sold the other week to the well-known Buckie skipper, James Reid (Rosie), who has got one of the best-found fishing craft on the east coast for the modest sum of £238. We also learn that the Cellardyke North Sea boat Isabella has changed hands, the new owner being Skipper Beatt of the Alices.

YARMOUTH HERRINGS The SS Cargan 97 tons, Captain Ross, arrived at Anstruther yesterday, from Yarmouth, and landed about 400 barrels of herrings to the order of Messrs Sharp & Murray, Cellardyke. After discharging the above quantity, she proceeded by midday tide bound to Leith with the rest of her cargo, which also consists of herrings

Do you enjoy and follow the Cellardyke Echo and the work of the Cellardyke Trust?

There are costs behind everything we do, such as, Web hosting fees for this website which provides the weekly Cellardyke Echo and all the other info and research. Public Liability Insurance for our events such as the Sea Queen and the Phone Boxes. These are general operating costs which we cannot avoid.

If you are able to support the work of the Cellardyke Trust – Donations of any size would be gratefully received.

Our Account is called “The Cellardyke Trust (SCIO)”, Sort Code 83-15-08 – Acc No 00128815

Many Thanks

1886

DENSE FOG— PERILOUS SITUATION OF FISHING CRAFT. —The old saying, “A silken Sabbath a harran week,” has been true if ever of the present one. The brilliant sunshine with which it opened was succeeded by cold drizzling showers, especially on Monday, when a dense fog also settled in the Forth. As a consequence, the navigation became very critical. Vessel signalled to vessel with steam whistle or fog horn at sea, but the mariner had no such friendly guide he groped along the shore. Thus, on the voyage from Banff to Yarmouth, the boat Abstainer came into collision with the Carr Rock about midnight. The stroke made the little craft quiver from stem stern, but luckily she floated over the reef and arrived at Anstruther, with no more serious mishap than a little damage to her forefoot. A couple Manx fishing vessels, however, were in more serious plight. The Nellie, of Port Mary, at 8 P.M. struck the same dangerous reef, the beacon, as we hear, being mistaken in the mist for vessel’s sail. It was about low water, and believing that the loss of the smack was inevitable, the skipper and his crew took to the long boat, with which, strangers as they were, they safely landed near Randerstone Castle. Within half-an-hour the second smack, the Thomas Brown, of Peel, went ashore near Fife Ness. The crew were no less fortunate in finding their way the homestead of Craighead, where the sailor friend, as many a poor castaway has reason to speak of Mr Morton, at once supplied them with all needful comfort and rest.  In the meantime their companions in misfortune had travelled to Kingsbarns, from which they by-and-bye returned to the scene of the wreck; but in the interval extraordinary adventure had befallen the derelict. Floating with the tide, she drifted with one the tiller or sheet till she stranded high water near the “Golden Strand “at Cellardyke. When first seen she was lying high and dry on a flat with the captain’s watch ticking in the cabin and other valuables lying about if and his crew had left all in the rush for life. With the sea, however, as calm a lake, little, if any, anxiety was felt about their welfare, reasonable was the opinion that they had either landed on the May, or been rescued by a passing ship. But if the vessel was to be saved there was time for hesitation, and accordingly the well-known ship and boat builder, Mr Jarvis. at once proceeded to the spot with his men, and skilfully and well did be perform his task that at high water on Tuesday afternoon she was safely moored in Anstruther Harbour. The situation of the Thomas Brown was more doubtful, the tide ebbed and flowed through a large hole in her bottom, but the Nellie was no sooner in safety than Mr Jarvis drove, through the kindness of Mr Morton, Fifeness, to advise about her salvage. Neither vessel, understand, is insured.

BOAT for SALE; Length, 45 feet; Built in 1874, and in good condition, just as she has been at this Lammas Fishing. Apply to Wm. Gardner Skipper, 59 John Street, Cellardyke.

THE CELLARDYKE SCHOOL Mr Sharp stated that the Committee had done nothing with regard to getting a wire netting putt up to protect all the windows in Cellardyke School. Mr Donaldson noticed that none of the panes had been broken this year. The Chairman—That is most unusual. Whom have we to thank for that? Mr Donaldson- I think Mr Mitchell baa a great deal to do with it. He looked well after the school during the vacations.  Mr Smith—There is no doubt be is a daur upon the children. Mr Sharp—ln former years there was none to look after the property during the vacations, but this year Mitchell has proved a good caretaker The Chairman—ln that case there is not the same necessity for having the wire netting put up. L am rather in favour of having the playground enclosed, but in the meantime we will allow the matter to be on the table.

EXPOSURE OF PROPERTY. — The two houses built at the west end of Cellardyke by Mr Alexander Wallace were again exposed for sale in the Town Hall on Saturday. The reduced upset of each property was £330, but no sale was effected.    

PAINFUL ACCIDENT. —Alexander Doig, one of the crew of the Cellardyke boat “Refuge,” had his hand terribly mutilated by the wheel of machinery upon which he was engaged working. One of the forefingers was completely torn away.  Dr Craig attended to the injured man. 

THE SCARLATINA EPIDEMIC. —At a meeting of Kilrenny School Board on Wednesday evening it was reported that there were about 29 families in Cellardyke with children ill with scarlatina, and that while Dr McCallum had stated that the epidemic was spreading, it was not doing so to any rapid or alarming extent, so that there was no need in the meantime to close the schools. The officer had warned all the parents not to allow their children to attend school until the disease was entirely clear of their families. The Chairman was authorised, should the epidemic seriously increase, to summon a special meeting of the Board to take further precautions against its progress.  There had been one or two deaths from the disease among very young children. 

THE LOCAL PRONUNCIATION IN THE SCHOOLS. —  The Inspectors’ reports on the Cellardyke schools were read at a meeting of Kilrenny School Board on Wednesday evening. Complaint was made of the reading of the pupils being affected by the local pronunciation, and not reaching the same high level as the other work. The Chairman stated that the Inspectors complained of this personally to him when they were in the schools. He thought that the Board should call the attention of the teachers to the subject, so that it might be remedied in future. The suggestion was agreed to, and it was remitted to the School Committees to confer with the teachers on the subject.

A TENTH CONVICTION. —The young Cellardyke carter, George Mitchell, who only ended his term of imprisonment the other week, was again before the East Anstruther Bailies on Friday, charged with a drunken brawl near the Salutation Inn on the previous night, when he became outrageous and had to be locked in the cells. He pleaded guilty, but, in respect of there being no fewer than nine previous convictions against him, he was sentenced, without the option of a fine, to thirty days in jail. He was at the same time warned by Bailie Darsie that in the event of another complaint he would be remitted to a higher Court. 

TURNIP STEALING. —At the bar of Kilrenny Burgh Court on Monday—all the Magistrates on the bench—three Cellardyke urchins, David Watson, David Sutherland, and Wilson Birrell, pleaded guilty to turnip stealing on the farm of Kilrenny Mill, tenanted by Mr James Cairns. In passing sentence Provost Skinner hoped they would have as much self-respect as not to commit so mean a theft again, robbing the farmer of the food raised with so much labour for his cattle. They were each fined a couple of shillings.

A PAINFUL CASE. —Robert Blyth a lad of about ten years of age, residing with his father at the village of Kilrenny was accused before the magistrates in Cellardyke on Monday of having stolen a purse containing a florin from another boy of half his years, the son of John Simpson, blacksmith, at the same village. It appears that the father, Thomas Blyth, had been advised to send the lad to the Reformatory; but he not unnaturally wished to keep him in his family. The Court so far sympathised with the unhappy parent that, to give him another chance, it was agreed to continue the case till Saturday.

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Many Thanks

1885

T THOMSON & SON,

Boot and Shoe Manufacturers. 

HAVE always a Large Stock of BOOTS, SHOES, and SLIPPERS,

 At Very Low Prices. 

Ploughmen’s Strong, Water-tight, Tacketty Boots from 9s 6d to 14s. 

Lacing, Lorne, and Balmoral., from 9s to 134. 

Gent’s, Lorne and Lacing Shoes from 6s 6d to 13s 6d.

Ladies’ Boots, Shoes, and Slippers in the newest Styles. 

Boys’ and Girls’ School and Dress Boots in great variety. 

T. T. & Son have always a Large Stock of SEA  BOOTS, KNEE BOOTS,

WELLINGTONS, and BLUCHERS, at their Warehouses, 

34 James Street, Cellardyke, AND  14 and 16 Shore Street, Anstruther.

All Repairs done on the Shortest Notice, whether Sold by us or not. 

Every inducement given for Ready Cash.

THE KILRENNY CHARTER CHESTS. —We are requested to state in reference to the proceedings at the Police Board last week that Mr Watson gave up the charter chests, with everything else belonging to the burgh in his possession, within the week after he had been relieved from the Provostship

ALARMING ACCIDENT —As Mr Alexander Donaldson, baker at the East End of Cellardyke was serving his customers in West Anstruther on Friday evening, the pony, a fiery little animal, from some unexplained cause bolted before he had well taken his seat in the van. Dashing at full career, it took that most dangerous of all angles, the Buckie House corner, so quickly as to upset the van by the Town Hall. In the meantime Mr Donaldson’s boy of fourteen leaped from the back of the  vehicle, and thus escaped with no more serious  hurt than the spraining of his foot; but Mr Donaldson himself was thrown with such tremendous violence against the wall and footpath, as, with other injuries, to break his collar bone and three of his ribs, at the moment, indeed, the impression of the bystanders was that he was killed on the spot, but on being conveyed home and attended to by Dr Macallum, with his assistant, Dr Lynch, his friends had every encouragement to hope well  of his convalescence.

SALE OF PROPERTY. We understand that our townsman, Mr James Henderson, has just sold one of the twin houses to Skipper David Anderson (Fulton) the nucleus of the new street that is to run at right angles to the north of Rodger Street, Cellardyke. These are on the most approved scale, and as such may be well referred to as the model homes of the coast. Two storey high, they include a commodious parlour and kitchen, with the closet, &c. on each floor. The garrett or attic room-28 feet by 20 and 14 to the ridge is also specially designed for the storage of nets and other tackle. There is likewise a tidy little area In front, with the boilerhouse and garden in the rear, in which the hardy fisher can not only enjoy the fragrance of the rose and of the jessamine, but in which he may also, at his leisure, rope or refit his gear. The domestic conveniences include a w.c.; nor can we overlook the consideration shown by the builder in fitting them with pipes, so as to be ready for the new water supply from Balmonth, or other point, by gravitation. The property, which will thus accommodate two families, has been sold for about £350.  We further learn that Mr Henderson is to proceed at once with the rest of the section – some ten houses in all, and situated so invitingly as to have the Culdee Burn on the west, the gardens of Rodger Street on the east: and, with a beautiful prospect of sea and shore, it is not surprising that more than one young skipper is advising about a “rooftree” on the corner. 

THE END OF THE HERRING DRAVE—FISHER HOME LIFE SKETCHES OF THE SEA. —To-day the shore is as busy in storing the tackle or dismantling the big boat as it was a couple of months ago in fitting out for the cruise. Opinions were never so conflicting as to the result; but in official circles it is said that the four hundred boats between Inverie and the Golden Strand will average 200 crans, but with a deduction of 10 to 20 percent, for overdue herrings. Be this, however, as it may, with only too many the season has been from first to last one of the most fruitless and disappointing for the last twenty years. Adversity is not confined to any particular lot or calling —the crofter may lose his harvest, or the trader his market: but these ever-recurring waves of misfortune are specially to be lamented in the harvest of the sea.  Glance, for Instance, at the economy of the fisher home —there in the weather-beaten veteran after his weary and anxious toil, and with him the faithful partner of the crosses, and joys of life—her blue eye beaming with delight, and her every footstep telling of the gladness at her heart now that her ain guidman is once more safe at home. The ploughshare of time has been busy on that honest brow—yes, since those happy days when her ribbons flattered so gaily at the kirk stile; but, ah, where are all the brave lads and lasses that made the old Tollooth, with its grim arch, dirl on her wedding night. There are changes everywhere; but they will tell you how, in frost and snow, she was the first at the scaup or mussel bed, be it at Anstruther or the river. It was the same with the cry “the boats are comm’,” for there she is on the lowest of the long steps—her napkin as dripping with wet as the jacket of her young husband after tacking In the teeth of the storm, with every hand, save that at the tiller, intent with the pump or the bail dish, to keep the gallant little craft on the crest of the billows—her errand being forth, scull or line basket, with which, after a word or two of sympathy, or a look more eloquent still, she hurries away. But her task is only to begin, though singing the while like any blackbird in Innergellie woods to the children at her knee, she takes her seat to shell and bait, till the line, with its 500 hooks, is again ready for sea, when she is as likely as not to help Rob with it to the boat, true to the motto her old mother liked so well—”the road and the burden is but half wi’ anither tae share it.” And so, it was daily, unless some new and increased duty came round with the season; and look all the while how the shadows were falling above and around her – yes, there was a sunny brow and ma joyous step, but, ah, the cruel sea, and there is also to her more than one very precious spot yonder in the old church yard. This is no fancy sketch, but a picture of real life. Nor is it a solitary photograph, but only one of the mothers of the coast, though in giving it we have missed the point, if our readers are not so interested as to ask what are the fortunes of the season to such a one. Here it is, and she has, we regret to say, only too many sisters—her sons, at least those about the fireside, came home with little or nothing last autumn from the south, and then, like so many neighbours, they did not always take out what they put into the winter sea. The summer came: but it will not soon be forgotten for the ill-luck at Kinsale, and now, as we have said, there is hardly a shilling to settle accounts, or restore the lint on the naked raips there in the corner. In fact, it is to begin life against the very foot of the ladder, so that it is little wonder if some are tempted to “let the tow gan wi’ the bucket;” but it is far otherwise, as a rule. On every side you see how an abiding trust in the Fatherhood of God enables those with such a sheet anchor to wait and work till the evening, when a sweet voice shall as of old, to the tempest, “Peace, be still.” In consequence of the light and baffling winds, many of the boats had only made the harbour on Sabbath or later in the week; but on Tuesday the errand was so well over at Cellardyke, as at Pittenweem and St Monance, that the boatman was summoning the skippers to arrange about hauling up the boats. Thus, the meantime, is bustle and hurry to stow away after one adventure so as to be ready for the next, viz, the herring sea at Scarborough or Yarmouth, to which the sea-going fleet, possibly 140 sail, will again steer in the course of the next three weeks. The half-dealsmen of the season are understood to have been equal to a battalion thirteen hundred strong. Not a few were load tradesmen and others, thankful in this way to fill a slack or Idle interval but, as a rule, they were brawny Celts from “the land of the heather,” or perhaps the Western Isles.  There was a time when, fired with drink, the hot blood would so boil that fighting would be the order of the day from the port to the bulwark’ but with the train every few hours to carry them home, and the kindly precautions of the skipper to guard them on the way, we are not aware of a single stranger being in the hands of the police. It is true there was more than one escapade, as in the case of poor Donald, who was carefully stowed at Pittenweem, but only to waken again on the return of the last train to the platform; or another old acquaintance, who conceived himself robbed of his drave, some £11, till that clever young detective, P.C. White, found the missing notes in the tail of shirt. 

THE LAST ARRIVALS. A little squadron of five or six being overtaken by the gale on the voyage from Shetland only arrived at Anstruther about the end of this week. This is no new expedition. In one of the ever-recurring failures in the Forth, the Fife fishers went to Lerwick and the other islets, three hundred years ago; but the present season is by far the most successful on record—in no small degree, in fact, it redeems the misfortunes of the year to those so employed. Upwards of 70 boats were fitted out from Cellardyke, and about 30 from Pittenweem for the early fishing; but a month later, or towards the end of July, many, or rather most of them, retired to Fraserburgh or Peterhead; but those who remained fished from 300 to 550 crans. Up to a given date the price was only 15s, but without bounty. We hear that one boat, and this not the king fisher, earned the goodly sum of £451, or, deducting the expenses, about £50 to a deal. It is no secret, you read it in every fishing report, that in not a few cases the merchants are only making a payment to account, instead of, as in former seasons, settling with their crews. The balance, usually from 25 to 40 per cent., is to be sent after the first remittance from the Baltic, say in a couple of months or so, but in the meantime it has caused no little inconvenience, If not hardship, to those dependant on the season. Another kindly feature of the fishing is the circumstance that the gear has been considerably less damaged than in the stormy seas of Buchan. It is also pleasing to add that our Fife fishermen have won the golden opinions of the Islanders, especially for the way they honoured the Sabbath and the appointed means of grace. Their boats and tackle were likewise greatly admired, and in reference to this we hear that the lucky old Cellardyke favourite, the “Jessie’s,” had been sold by Skipper Brunton, at Lerwick, for the price, as the story goes, of £140. 

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Many Thanks

CELLARDYKE.  ASSAULT BY A TRAMP. —Before Provost Martin and Bailie Thomson on Monday, a tramp named Mary Hetherington, was accused of assaulting a pedlar from St Monans in John Street on Saturday night, and of committing a breach of the peace She was convicted on evidence, and fined or 5 days in prison. She went to prison. 

WOMAN RUN OVER. – Last Friday night, Elizabeth Doyle or McMillan, wife of a tinker living on Kilrenny Common, met with a serious accident. Alexander Donaldson, carter, Toldrie, was proceeding home driving a horse and cart. At the east side of Cellardyke Manse McMillan came up and fell in front of the cart, the near wheel passing over her body. She was conveyed to the room of the Parish Council in Cellardyke, and medically examined, when it was found that with the exception of one of her ribs no bones had been broken. No blame can be attached to the driver, the accident being entirely the fault of the woman. 

Re opening of the G.T.U. The Anstruther and Cellardyke Gospel Temperance Union will resume its meetings on Saturday Night, sept 5^th by holding a social meeting in the Baptist school room. A programme of Vocal and instrumental music will be given. Tea will be served at 6.30. Admission 4d

A full attendance is requested

Mr Jas Dick, Campbeltown is expected to address the meeting

Cellardyke YMCA The usual Morning meeting will be reopened on Sunday Morning, the 6^th inst, at 10 o’ clock, when Mr James Dick Missionary Campbeltown will preside. All are welcome.

WARNING TO CARTERS—A “CHRISTIAN” REFUSING TO TAKE THE OATH. —At Monday’s Burgh Court, Alexander Carmichael, carter, Kilrenny, was charged with having on the 19th ult., in Shore Street, left a horse yoked to a cart without any person having control of it, and wilfully causing an obstruction to the thoroughfare. Accused said he was not guilty, as it was done while attending to his master’s work. Constable Wright deponed that on the morning in question, between nine and ten o’clock. he saw the horse coming along the east end of Shore Street. No one was near it when it was stopped by Andrew Brown: It moved on again, and Brown stopped it a second time. Shortly after he saw Carmichael cowing out of Dunsire’s public house There was a distance of 80 yards between the public house and where the horse was first stopped, Andrew Brown, cooper, was next called. He appeared with his shirt sleeves tucked up, and on being asked to take the oath he said—l am not going to swear as that is against the Bible. The Clerk Unless you are a Quaker or an Atheist you must take the oath or be pulled up for contempt of Court. Brown—l am a Christian, and the Bible tells me “to swear not at all.” The provost—We don’t wish a sermon here on what the Bible says, and unless you take the oath or make an affirmation that you will tell the truth,. we will know how to deal with you. Brown—l will not swear, but I will promise to tell the truth. The Provost Hold up your right hand, and say the words after me–I solemnly affirm that I will tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Brown at once made the affirmation, and gave his evidence after which the Fiscal craved for conviction. This was a very dangerous practice, and was too frequently done. It might lead to serious consequences to leave a horse unattended in the streets Carmichael said he was coming from Cellardyke, after having delivered a load of coals. On his way to the station Mr Beaddie asked him to call in at Dunsire’s, and ask for a loan of a cart. He only looked in at the door and delivered his message. He got no drink, and when he came out his horse was along opposite Thomas Cunningham’s shop door where it was stopped. He was only doing his master’s duty. A fine of 7s 6d or five days imprisonment imposed.

The boats of Pittenweem, Cellardyke and St Monans have been trying the herrings this week with poor success. One Cellardyke boat got 15 barrels.

EAST OF FIFE FISHING NOTES.  The fishing was almost solely confined to the steam liners last week. The fishermen in the boats were engaged storing their gear, and making preparations for the South and Islay fishings. A few of the larger-sized yawls sailed for the latter fishing this week, including Mr D. Pratt, Cellardyke, who again this year set out with a ship-store filled with gear for sale. The southgoing boats will likely leave early next week.  The doings of the liners were exceedingly good last week. The gross earnings were £528 by eleven vessels, giving an average of £48. Several of them went to Grimsby, others to Shields, Hartlepool, Aberdeen, and Newhaven. The best fished was the Isle of May with £98, but one two were unfortunate in not getting the supply of bait they required.  The other liners had shots which realised the following sums: -Glenogil £65, Anster Fair £61, Copley £55, Maggie Lauder, £53. East Neuk £51, County of Fife £42, St Adrian £40, Rob the Ranter £2O, William Tennant £19, and Kellie Castle £18. Another two new liners have reached Anstruther, and are manned by Cellardyke crews. The Acadia is to be managed by skipper James Muir, and the Agnes of Aberdeen by skipper James Jack. A third liner is expected shortly, making 20 steam fishing vessels manned by Cellardyke fishermen. 

The liners left early for sea this week except the County of Fife, which is being cleaned and  painted. The first intelligence was regarding the Edith, which went into Aberdeen on Wednesday morning with a shot which fetched £20. 

1897

Three Cellardyke girls, a daughter of Pilot Thomas Tarvit, a daughter of John Jack, and a daughter of William Doig, have been engaged and are now stationed at Carrigart, County Donegal, learning their Irish sisters how gut and otherwise deal with herrings.

Anstruther – The best fished Cellardyke boat this season is the Lavinia, Skipper D Birrell, with £540, £120 of which was got the last week of the fishing.

Aberdeen Although the fishing has been light, a few boats have come off well, on account of the high prices ruling. The most successful boat was the Maggie Scott KY.27 which has made £502, the next was the Union of Lossiemouth which made £400

Anstruther The mail steamer to Stornoway has been crowded every trip with fishermen and female fishworkers returning from the East Coast. So unsuccessful has the industry been that many of the people had to send for money to take them home, and others less fortunate had to leave their clothing to pay for their lodging

ASSAULTING THE POLICE At a Burgh Court on Monday, William Sutherland, fisherman, Cellardyke, pled guilty to creating a disturbance at the Harbour Head one day last week, He pled not guilty to the charge of striking Sergeant Anderson to the effusion of blood. Four witnesses gave evidence for the prosecution, one being warned by the Bench that he must give his evidence in a straightforward manner, or it would be taken down. Three witnesses for the defence said they did not see accused strike the sergeant, but he might have done it. The case was found proved, and accused sentenced to pay 20s, or suffer fourteen days’ imprisonment, and bound over to keep the peace for the next six months, under a penalty of £5, or suffer other thirty days.

1898

COLLISION WITH A SUNKEN WRECK The steamer Ugie, of Peterhead, had a narrow escape when coming up the Forth on Friday on her way to Leith with a cargo of herring from Peterhead. When half a mile SSW off Cellardyke the steamer collided heavily with a sunken wreck. 

Launch of a Fishing Boat. —Mr Jarvis launched a new fishing boat built to the order of Skipper Gardiner, Cellardyke. She was christened the Margarets.  She is a fine model, and is 66 feet in length and 20 feet wide.  She is being fitted with steam to hoist the sails and haul the gear.

EAST OF FIFE FISHING NOTES The last of the boats returned home Saturday. The highest Cellardyke boat has about £500, and the average earning is now said to be £120.

CLOSE OF THE FISHING AT ABERDEEN. —The season is now practically over. Between 300 and 400 boats were fishing from this port, but now only 60 remain. The season for this sudden exodus is largely due to the hired hands, who considered that the season’s engagements terminated by the first week of September.  The fleet was comprised as follows: —Scottish Boats—KY 150; INS 75; LH 66; A 60; ME  13; BK 11; BF 5; DE 9. English Boats — LT 3; YH 2. Irish. -18 boats from Dublin. 

OUTBREAK OF FEVER. – In Cellardyke, three cases of scarlet fever have been reported this week among young people. The fever is of a mild type.

THE SCHOOL VACANCY. —A large number of applications have been sent in for the headmistress of the school. Between 60 and 70 have been received, and a number of the applicants have visited the members and headmaster. The Board meets on Monday to consider the applications.

BOATS VERY MUCH AT A DISCOUNT. —Acting under instructions from the N. B. R. Company on Wednesday, an auctioneer held a sale of the old boats lying in Leven dock, some of them belonged to St Monans, Buckhaven, and Cellardyke, all of them about fifty feet long, One craft with the water going in and out of her changed hands at sixpence, another brought threepence more after a stiff piece of talking by the auctioneer and a third went at the princely price of half a crown, a halfpenny per foot of keel. They have to be removed within fourteen days. Leven folks will not be sorry, it is the wish of the place that the whole lot be cleared out. It is believed the Company will send a dredger to the river in the end of the month to clear out the entrance.

Do you enjoy and follow the Cellardyke Echo and the work of the Cellardyke Trust?

There are costs behind everything we do, such as, Web hosting fees for this website which provides the weekly Cellardyke Echo and all the other info and research. Public Liability Insurance for our events such as the Sea Queen and the Phone Boxes. These are general operating costs which we cannot avoid.

If you are able to support the work of the Cellardyke Trust – Donations of any size would be gratefully received.

Our Account is called “The Cellardyke Trust (SCIO)”, Sort Code 83-15-08 – Acc No 00128815

Many Thanks

The Cellardyke boats that have been fishing at the north have nearly all arrived home. The season has been a fairly good one, the average being higher than some years back, it being estimated at £150. The highest boat is the Reliance, with £420. A few have over £300. and quite a number above £200 to their credit.

CELLARDYKE FISHERMAN DROWNED.  Yesterday forenoon telegram from Leven announced the sad tidings that Thomas Pringle, Cellardyke, had been drowned off Leven. The unfortunate young man was one of the crew of the Onyx, Skipper Robert Meldrum, and left Anstruther about 3 a.m., with the intention of beaching the Onyx in Leven Dock for the winter.  He was about thirty years of age, and engaged to  be married in a fortnight.

DESIRABLE PROPERTY IN CELLARDYKE FOR SALE. To be SOLD by Public Roup, within the TOWN CLERKS OFFICE. on THURSDAY, the 20th day of September 1894, at Two o’clock Afternoon, THE PROPERTY, 21 and 23 John Street, Cellardyke, (which was Licensed for over 40 years) consisting of Shop, Dwelling House, Garden, and Oiling House, belonging to the Heirs of the late Mrs Nicol, and all as lately occupied by Mr William Leslie, Wine and Spirit Merchant. For further Particular. apply to Guthrie, Solicitors, Anstruther.

The Fishing Industry in South Australia

The following paragraph is taken from a Geelong newspaper, of the end of June last. The Captain mentioned is Mr Cunningham, late of Cellardyke: ‘ The deep sea fishing cutter “Scotsman” arrived early yesterday at North Geelong front a hard and deep sea fishing trip having experienced some very severe weather during the cruise The ‘ Scotsman’ proved a splendid sea boat in the trying weather in the Straits. Captain Cunningham reports strong easterly and north-westerly in the south west entrance of the    ….. Straits, trails. In his opinion the deep sea fish strike to deep water according to storms and season.. For the information of those interested the Captain states that deep sea fishing crafts should be about 30 tons reg. and able to keep the sea in all weathers, the special qualifications required being speed, adaptability and worthiness, for which the Captain holds the prize medal of Norwich exhibition 1881. The fishermen engaged in the trade should moreover be trained to this hazardous work when very young. Victoria waters furnish large scope for deep sea fishing, but he believes that if the Government would be at the expense of building suitable deep sea boats and entrust these to experienced captains, coat of construction to be repaid without interest, and encourage the colonial youth to become apprentices, the deep sea fishing industry would be very soon on a sound footing.

1895

The herring fishing in the Forth closed last week. The returns were very meagre, and the prices ruled from 10s to 10s 6d per cran. The total catch for the season is 3258 crans, against 1675 crans last year, or an increase of 1563 crans. Seven steam liners earned £2646s last week, the shots of white fish and herring ranging from £11 to £31. A number of Cellardyke boats which have been fishing at the north stations have returned home. The fishing has been best for several years back, the average earning being high.

Fisherman Drowned near Aberdeen. —The captain the fishing boat Mizpah, of Kirkcaldy, 398, reported, on arrival Aberdeen on Tuesday afternoon, the of one of his crew, young man of the name George Watson, belonging to Cellardyke, and twenty-four years of age. Watson was assisting, along with others of the crew, adjusting the boat’s sail, when about 10 miles east by north of Aberdeen, when, by some means, was knocked overboard. The boat was making considerable way through the water at the time, and the only immediate measure that could be adopted towards saving the unfortunate fellow was the throwing of oar his direction. He sank, however, and did not appear again during the time the Mizpah remained the vicinity. Watson resided 8 Rodger Street, Cellardyke, and intelligence of the sad accident was at once despatched to his friends by the skipper of the Mizpah on its arrival Point Law. The accident will doubt form the subject of official inquiry.

Re-Opening of The School.—The schools in Cellardyke and Kilrenny were reopened after the holidays on Monday, with a slight increase in the attendance at each over that of last year. The total enrolled in the three schools the first, day was 417.

LIST OF VOTERS. —The new list of voters for Kilrenny contains the names of 271 Parliamentary voters, a decrease 58 over last year, when the numbers were 329. The decrease is owing to deaths and disqualifications for not paying the poor rates in time. The female voters number 36, an increase of one over last year.

(it was only local elections that women could vote in 1895 – it wasn’t until 1918 there was universal suffrage)

FOR SALE, the Cellardyke Fishing Boat ” Isle of May,” 43 feet long, Carvel built, with all Appurtenances, at present lying in Anstruther Harbour. Apply to ALEXANDER RITCHIE, 62 James Street, Cellardyke.

FOR SALE, Carvel built BOAT, 45 feet long, “Rival,” KY. 391. For further particulars apply to 41 Shore Street, Anstruther.

ABERDEEN end of season report., Prior to the commencement of the season, about the end of May a good deal speculation was rife not only in Aberdeen, bet in Cellardyke and other southern the ports whence the boats come and fish from Aberdeen, Peterhead, and Fraserburgh, to the probable of the agreement which was arrived at at a representative meeting of fishermen along the east coast of Scotland, held Aberdeen last December, to observe close time from 10^th June 10^th July. This was not adhered to, however, by the end of June the northern fishermen had begun operations, and Aberdeen very soon followed suit, though, as a matter of fact, only 397 crans were landed the port for week ending 6^th July. The number of boats fishing regularly from the port daring the season now ended was 342 compared with 365 last year. Aa usual, however, a large number of boats which do not make one port their rendezvous occasionally called Aberdeen and landed their fish. The craft were composed 56 Aberdeen, 126 KY., 79 INS., 45 LH., 1 ME., 2 DE., 1 BF., 6 BK., 4 PD, 11 English, and 11 Irish. As may observed, the Cellardyke boats represent more than a third of the total number. During the season the KY. boats as a rule have been the most successful, while, on the other hand, they have been the moot unfortunate of the craft.

The predominant factor in the success of the fishing was oat at all favourable to the fishermen this season. Calm weather, detrimental to the procuring of the herring, was experienced almost from first to last. This season has been remarkable in its absence of storms, the craft being detained from going sea only two evenings as a consequence of rough weather. In consequence of the mild weather, more second day’s herrings were lauded this year than usual, but there was scarcity of fish at the time they were brought in, very remunerative prices were given.

The Misfortunes of the Season,

In connection with the fishing at Aberdeen, there were two fatal accidents, both to Cellardyke men. One of them was struck by the jibboom of the boat, knocked overboard, and was drowned, and the other was knocked overboard by the sail, and drowned. Another Cellardyke fisherman died suddenly while the boat was at sea.

The Fatal Accident of a Fife Fisherman.— An inquiry under the Fatal Accidents Inquiry Act into the circumstances attending the death of a Cellardyke fisherman named George Watson, who was accidentally knocked overboard from the boat Mizpah and drowned on 27th August, was held at Aberdeen yesterday. Acting Sheriff Brown presided. It appeared from the evidence that the deceased when he met his death had been assisting the other members of the crew to bring the boat’s head round to the wind. While unfastening a block for the purpose of lowering the sail, deceased was knocked overboard ana drowned. The jury returned verdict to the effect that the deceased had been accidentally drowned by being dragged overboard the rope attached to the sail owing to its sudden tightening.

Do you enjoy and follow the Cellardyke Echo and the work of the Cellardyke Trust?

There are costs behind everything we do, such as, Web hosting fees for this website which provides the weekly Cellardyke Echo and all the other info and research. Public Liability Insurance for our events such as the Sea Queen and the Phone Boxes. These are general operating costs which we cannot avoid.

If you are able to support the work of the Cellardyke Trust – Donations of any size would be gratefully received.

Our Account is called “The Cellardyke Trust (SCIO)”, Sort Code 83-15-08 – Acc No 00128815

Many Thanks

1890

Fisherman Drowned at Aberdeen – John Sloan, fisherman on board the boat KY1329, Dayspring of Cellardyke fell into Aberdeen harbour on Saturday and was drowned, the body was in the water ten minutes, but life was extinct when it was taken out. Deceased belongs to Ballyveigh, Ireland and leaves a widow and family.

(Loss from the Dayspring KY1329 1890)

PROPERTIES IN CELLARDYKE FOR SALE.  To be SOLD by Public Roup, within the TOWN HALL of CELLARDVKE, on SATURDAY, 20th September 1890, at 12 o’clock Noon, in virtue of the powers of sale contained in Bonds and Dispositions in Security. THE WHOLE PROPERTIES in JOHN STREET   and TOLLBOOTH WYND belonging, or which belonged, to John Gilchrist, Shoe Merchant, comprising— 

I. HOUSE and GARDEN, SHOP and FACTORY, No. 9 and SHOP and PERTINENTS No. 11 John Street. 

II. DWELLING HOUSES, SHOPS, and others, Nos. 1,3, 5, 7 John Street, and DWELLING HOUSES, SHOP, BAKEHOUSE, STABLES, STORAGE, and others on east side of Tolbooth Wynd, and below John Street.  Apply to DAVID COOK, Solicitor, Anstruther.

About four o’clock on Tuesday morning, Margaret Doig, residing in Dove Street, Cellardyke, was found dead in bed by her sister. She resided with her sister, and on Monday complained of being sick. The slyer rose during the night, and noticed that Margaret was breathing heavily, but nut caring to waken her she went to bed again. Shortly afterwards she found her dead. On the doctor being called the cause of death was certified to be haemorrhage on the brain. She was 62 years of age, and unmarried.

Death of Veteran, —Another familiar face has passed away from Cellardyke bulwark in Mr Wilson Birrell, who died on Monday in his 82nd year. The family name Is one of the moat numerous to-day on coast, but his great grand-father, a seafaring man, at Kinghorn. was the first to settle in the east of Fife. By his mother’s side he belongs to race of old sea captains in Anstruther. He inherited all the strength and resolution for which they were famous, being noted in his day as one of the most energetic skippers of the Forth. In his boyhood only fifteen boats sailed from Cellardyke. He himself fished at Wick with three nets to hand, but the tiller of the Lavinia, flying like the curfew through the spindrift, he was one of the first—like the brave old skipper of old—to lead the way to the untold wealth of the North Sea. was one of the few who steered safely through the foam when Wick Bay was so strewn with wreck and the dead- It is such as he who are the fathers of the coast being kindly remembered as much for their quiet and honourable life on shore as for their enterprise and daring at sea.

Fife Free Press Saturday 30^th August 1890 page 4

1891

Aberdeen – On Friday as two little girls were walking along Pocra Quay, one of them tripped upon a ring at the quay side, and fell into the water. No one was beside at the time. Her companion hastened along the quay where William Smith, a Cellardyke fisherman, was seated in his boat. Smith at once made for the spot, and succeeded getting the little girl ashore little the worse for her immersion.

On Tuesday night the Cellardyke boat Glengarry arrived at Anstruther with 199 ½ crans of herrings. The fish were of good quality, being large and full, and realised 20s per cran. Several Cellardyke boats fishing at Aberdeen met with success last week, two or three having £211and £200 respectively for the week, and another two had on Saturday £162 5s and £115 respectively (the Glengarry’s catch almost 200 hundred crans at 20s or £1 per cran would be worth about £33 000 today, not bad for one night’s work.)

Peel City Guardian 22 August 1891 p6

1892

The Cellardyke boats at the Northern stations have not done so well as expected, while a few have netted from £300 to £500 for the season the great majority have only between £50 and £100 to their credit, a sum which will leave very little over after paying expenses.

FIFE FISHERMAN DROWNED AT PETERHEAD

 The body of a fisherman was found in the south harbour, Peterhead, yesterday, It was identified as that of John Muir, 19 years old, belonging to Cellardyke, Fifeshire, and a hired man on board the fishing boat Reindeer. Muir was last seen on Broad Street about half-past one on Sunday morning, and it is supposed that in attempting to board his boat, which was moored near the place where the body was found, and in which he slept, he had fallen into the water.   

(It is unclear if he was a crew member of the Reindeer or Mayflower KY46)

The homecoming of the fleet thus occurs under a shadow which the drave of many will only deepen. The first- comer proved to be the Magdalene Hughes, Skipper Fergus Hughes, the king fisher for the season. He is credited with £700, against which 30 nets lost on the Tuesday is the chief deduction. The crew is composed of half-dealsmen, who thus receive a splendid wage, as large as many an entire crew’s earnings, while the skipper, as owner, is placed far ahead on the list of rich draves. On the same Friday the Reliance, Cellardyke, (Skipper Adam Reid) returned to Anstruther, and his £450 will probably make him the king fisher of this port. The Golden Rule and Livina- came in on Thursday, and each succeeding tide was marked by the arrival of some boat or other, chiefly those from Aberdeen, from whom a recital of heavy hauls would weary one, and the tales of remuneration prove all too brief. With them the season has been a weary drag, intensified by the fever of a good shot, and the wet blanket thrown over the crew on their return to port by the lack of buyers. The average for the entire fleet at this port is about 280 crans, but the money realised is scarcely a fourth of that.

1893

Some of the Cellardyke boats were very successful at Peterhead on Tuesday, the  Lady of the Lake having 130 ½ crans, while the Lilias Scott had 80, and the Maggie  Scott 70 crans. 

WANTED Immediately. Smart GIRL for Home Work, aged 16 or 17. Apply Mrs Thomas Scott, 81 George Street, Cellardyke.

Among the names of the successful candidates at the recent Intermediate or 1st B.A. examination London University is that of Mr Donald Macdonald, Cellardyke.

MISHAP TO A CELLARDYKE BOAT. —The steamer Rita, of Copenhagen, bound for Fraserburgh, collided with the herring boat Alice. of Cellardyke, KY. 1676 (John Bett, master), off Aberdeen on Wednesday morning. Part of the boat’s mast was carried away. A boat was lowered from the Rita and lay alongside the damaged craft till her nets were hauled. The Rita then towed the Alice into Aberdeen Bay.

POLICE COURT FRASERBURGH. —At this court on Monday -Bailie Macconnachie on the bench—Geo. Murray, skipper of the fishing boat K.Y. 71, of Cellardyke, was charged with a breach of the harbour bye-laws by refusing to obey an assistant harbour master when ordered to move his boat from one berth to another. Accused denied the charge but was convict ed on evidence. Accused was fined 20s with the alternative of 5 days in jail.

THE ABERDEEN STABBING AFFRAY.

THE IRISHMAN ACQUITTED OF MURDER

A High Court of Justiciary was held at Aberdeen yesterday before Lord Young.  John McMullen (32), fisherman, a native of County Down, was charged with having, on the 31st July, in Market Street, Aberdeen, assaulted George Cormack, fisherman, Cormack Square, Torry, and did stab him on the left side of his chest and in his stomach, and did murder him. Prisoner pleaded not guilty, and Mr W. A. Brown, advocate, defended him, instructed by Mr John RB. Dean, S.S.C. A special plea was tendered for the panel to the effect that he acted self-defence.

David Watson, master of the fishing boat Invincible, of Cellardyke, was the first witness called. He stated, in reply to Advocate-Depute Lorimer, that on the evening of Monday, 3st July, he and McMullen went to Stephen’s public house at the foot of Market Street. There were others there before them, but were not in their company. One of the men, whom witness understood was the deceased Cormack, said to McMullen “You have got an awful dirty face. You are a half-caste.” Witness made answer to the effect that Cormack had better mind his own business. They all left the public-house at eleven o’clock, and when they got on to the street witness saw McMullen and Cormack fighting. Witness himself was knocked down at the public-house door. Subsequently McMullen made a complaint to the policeman, and he and witness then went home. Watson did not see a knife used. McMullen did not raise a quarrel, Shown the knife with which the fatal assault was alleged to have been committed, witness said it was similar to a knife carried by McMullen. Witness and McMullen went to sea the day following the assault, and McMullen told him that he had used a knife, and had left his mark.

By Mr Brown – McMullen did not say anything to irritate or annoy Cormack. It appeared to witness that Cormack was anxious to get up a quarrel with McMullen, Witness did not see McMullen strike Cormack. Watson further stated that he had known McMullen for a month previous to the assault, and he appeared to be a man of peaceable disposition. He was not given to quarrelling and fighting.

Lord Young—Weil, the most useful lesson to draw from this is to keep out of the public-house.

Alexander Macgregor, barman in St Stephen’s public house, in Market Street, deponed that saw McMullen in the premises on the night in question, He heard Cormack remark to accused that he was a half-caste, Witness thought McMullen was very quiet. As McMullen was leaving the house he asked witness if he had seen “that man” striking him, and Macgregor replied in the negative

By Mr Brown – McMullen did not seem to be afraid.

Lord Young—He thought he was the ill-used party in the house.

By a Juryman – both parties were sober.

Lord Young – Sober at period of the evening (Laughter.)

Thomas Main, jun. fisherman, Torry, stated that he was in Cormack’s company in the public house The deceased left him, however, and went and spoke to McMullen and to Watson, both of whom he afterwards saw Cormack strike. Witness got into grips with Watson. He was taken away clear of latter, and on his way home he saw a crowd, in the middle of which Cormack was lying, Smith holding him up. A cab was got, and his was taken home, witness going with him.

Mr Brown – He had heard that Cormack was fond of fighting, but he did not think he was wanting to get into a fight that night. Witness saw McMullen strike Cormack.

His Lordship – The question is apparently the amount of guilt of using a knife. (To the advocate-Depute)—Are you willing to accept culpable homicide.

Mr Brown – Certain witnesses will put a very different complexion upon the disturbance. I think the evidence should go before the jury.

Lord Young—Very well; but it is not before the jury; it is before me.

William Henry Cressy, fisherman, 50 Gordon Street, Aberdeen, said he was at the foot of Market Street, and saw someone strike Watson. The latter said he did not want to fight. Cormack came up and struck McMullen six or seven times on the face with his fists. McMullen went backwards on his heels as if to get away. He ran into a lamp-post and fell, Cormack also fell, but as he was rising the accused struck him in the chest.

His Lordship –  It was then the knife was used

Witness – “I never saw no knife.

By Mr Brown – McMullen seemed to be hard pressed. Cormack was attacking him very furiously. There was blood on McMullen’s face, and he seemed to be very frightened.

George Brown, trawler, 3 Trinity Quay, Aberdeen, corroborated, stating that he saw McMullen hard pressed, and exhorted him to stand his ground. Cormack was very violent. Witness walked down the street with accused, who complained to two policemen they met.

By Mr Brown—He did not see blood on McMullen’s face. When McMullen heard an English voice (witness’s) he evidently thought it was someone to take his part.

Constable George Low, of the City Police Force, spoke to having received a complaint by a Mr McMullen of having been assaulted, there was blood on McMullen’s face.

DR D.G.G. MacDonald deponed to having been called to attend Cormack. There was a wound on his left side between the seventh and the eighth rib, a sharp instrument having pierced the wall of the chest and entered the stomach. Death resulted from acute peritonitis.

DR Robert J. Garden corroborated, and stated that he also examined McMullen the day after the occurrence. There were four severe bruises on his head.

Sheriff Robertson then read Cormack’s dying deposition, which was taken on the day following the assault, The prisoner’s declaration was also read.

THE DEFENCE

Constable Charles Gauld, of the Kincardineshire Constabulary, was then called to give evidence as to the quarrelsome and fighting character of the deceased. Witness stated that during the four and a half years he was stationed at Torry he knew Cormack to be very quarrelsome and given to fighting. He was given to accosting people and picking quarrels with them. Witness had received frequent complaints about Cormack, and twice he reported him to the Procurator Fiscal for breach of the peace., Cormack and other young men were in the habit of coming over from Torry to Aberdeen, generally in the evening, and making disturbances when on their way home.

The Advocate Depute then intimated that he would accept a plea of culpable homicide and Mr Brown said that if such a verdict was returned, he would be satisfied to leave the case in the hands of the Judge.  His Lordship suggested, however, that Mr Brown had better address the jury, which he accordingly did, maintaining that what the prisoner did was done in self-defence.

The Judge having summed up, the jury retired, and after an absence of eight minutes they returned a verdict unanimously finding the prisoner not guilty. McMullen was then discharged.

Do you enjoy and follow the Cellardyke Echo and the work of the Cellardyke Trust?

There are costs behind everything we do, such as, Web hosting fees for this website which provides the weekly Cellardyke Echo and all the other info and research. Public Liability Insurance for our events such as the Sea Queen and the Phone Boxes. These are general operating costs which we cannot avoid.

If you are able to support the work of the Cellardyke Trust – Donations of any size would be gratefully received.

Our Account is called “The Cellardyke Trust (SCIO)”, Sort Code 83-15-08 – Acc No 00128815

Many Thanks

1930

DEATH OF A PROMISING ST ANDREWS STUDENT. Much regret was expressed in St Andrews last Saturday when it became known that Mr Robert Hunter, a promising St Andrews student, had died suddenly at his home in Cellardyke that day. He was the only son of Mr and Mrs J. Y. Hunter, The Schoolhouse, Cellardyke. Deceased was a prominent member of the 0.T.C., and was in camp with them at Silloth a few weeks ago.  He took ill on his return home, and he passed away as stated. The family is well known in ST  Andrews, for the father was for a considerable time first assistant in St Andrews Burgh School, and headmaster of the evening continuation classes. Mr Robert Hunter received his early education at the Burgh School, St Andrews, and Waid Academy, Anstruther, and then proceeded to St Andrews University, where he graduated B.Sc. a year ago. He continued at the University with the object of taking research work in chemistry. He was a fine athlete, and one of the best forwards in the University Rugby team. Owing to an injury, he was unable to play last season. A fine type of young man, he was very popular with his fellow-students. He was 21 years of age. The funeral took place from Cellardyke to the Western Cemetery, St Andrews, on Tuesday. The Rev. A. M. Maclver. St Andrews, conducted the service at the grave. Lieut Col. W. G. Peterson and Captain George Robertson, of the 0.T.C, attended in uniform, and a large number of University students also attended. Among the many beautiful wreaths were those from the officers of the 0.T.C., 0.T.C. Tent companions, the Students’ Union, the Students’ Representative Council, etc. 

CELLARDYKE MAN’S DEATH IN CANADA.  —A former Cellardyke man, Mr John Boyter Tarvit, Port Dover, Ontario, Canada, has died after a brief illness following an operation. He was 31 years of age. Mr Tarvit was very popular in Port Dover. During his six years’ residence there he made many friends.  At the time of his death he was employed on the tug Alva W. At the funeral many beautiful floral tributes were received, end there was a large attendance. A member of Pert Dover Post 158, Canadian Legion, full military honours were accorded deceased. Sincere sympathy is extended to his aged parents and brother and sister in Cellardyke.

CELLARDYKE AIRS A GRIEVANCE

In November last when the Royal Burghs of Anstruther Easter, Anstruther Wester and Kilrenny became one under the Local Government Act, there was much shaking of heads in Cellardyke, the Seaward fringe of Kilrenny and the town proper.

It was said that Cellardyke, which is gaining prominence as a seaside resort, would be forced to play second fiddle to Anstruther, at least, as far as developing the town’s summer visitor “traffic” was concerned.

The uniting of the Burghs was no new idea, and it was discussed on many occasions previous to the passing of the Local Government Act of 1929, but though Anstruther Easter and Anstruther Wester looked upon it favourably, Cellardyke regarded the overtures for a union with something akin to suspicion.

NO OPTION

In November, however the ratepayers of Cellardyke had no option but to unite, and hope for the best.

Now the old fear is bearing fruit. Many people I Cellardyke are alleging that the united Council are neglecting the town and giving more of their attention to Anstruther.

It is further asserted that by their failure to provide facilities for recreation in Cellardyke, at the east end of the town, the Council are driving many summer visitors from the town of Anstruther

According to one prominent townsman, Cellardyke is slowly and surely being pushed our into the cold by the back door.

SCHEMES IN THE AIR

“At one time” he said, “Cellardyke had schemes in the air for an open air swimming pool, tennis courts and even a golf course was suggested, but now all we hear about is Billowness at Anstruther.

“Visitors who wish a game of golf or tennis have to travel to Anstruther or Crail, a sad state of affairs when one realises the number of holidaymakers who give the town their patronage, and hundreds more who would stay here if the facilities, which they crave, were provided.

Fishermen’s wives who take summer boarders, expressed the similar views.

Stonehaven

Last week for the first time in over 20 years a herring steam drifter landed several crans of fish which sold at 31 shilling per cran. The drifter was the “Eastern Star” of Cellardyke and is registered at Carnoustie

1931

Correspondence.  Recollections of Ceres Games.  (To the Editor.) ;  It is apparent from: your interesting report of the Ceres Games that the appeal of the gathering to old Ceresians and their friends has not diminished in any form, but rather increased.  It is indisputable that my native village of Ceres holds the unique distinction of bringing back recollections of the traditional historic march of their ancestors to the aid of Robert Bruce, on the field of Bannockburn.   (To the Editor.)  In my young days, ‘the Derby” was the culminating event, and among the entrants always appeared the name of William Spittal, Ceres, long a horse trader, and a keen judge of horse flesh.  Records of fifty years ago will show that the Spittal entry invariably won, and the victorious horse was ridden by the same William Spittal, son of the trader, who appears in your picture of this year, mounted on-the Shetland pony, Telegraph.  The continuous winning of “the Derby” by the local entrant was accomplished, in a great measure, from the fact that the horse was made acquainted with. the turns of the “Green” weeks before the event, and the cheers of ‘“Wully’s’ chums on the day of the race encouraged him to victory over the entrants of the fish cadgers from Cellardyke and Pittenweem.  The spectacle was a glorious sight from beginning to end, and is indelibly fixed  in my memory.  …..l am, etc., F. ALBERT ANDERSON, 1638 Main Avenue, Spokane, State of Washington, USA

1932

ANSTRUTHER BANK AGENT RETIRES 

The retiral has taken place, owing to ill health, of Mr Henry Watson, joint agent at Anstruther and Pittenweem branches and Cellardyke and St Monance sub-branches of the National Bank of Scotland, Ltd.  Mr James McAuslin, accountant at Anstruther branch, and Mr John Crichton Masterton and Mr Hugh Cameron Mackintosh both partners in the firm of Mackintosh & Watson, writers, have been associated Mr A. C. Mackintosh as joint agents.

Royal Burgh of Anstruther

Tenders are invited for the following works required in the erection of twelve houses at Cellardyke, Anstruther for the Town Council.

Brick, Joiner, Plumber, Plaster and Cement

Slater, and roughcast, Painter, Glazer, Fencing

Streets and sewers and water mains

Schedules of quantities may be obtained on application to the architect – Mr A D Haxton , Commercial Rd Leven, Tenders to be lodged with the undersigned on or before Friday 26^th August 1932

The Town council will not bind themselves to accept the lowest or any offer

CH Maxwell

J Gordon Dow

Joint Town Clerks

1933

FROM PERTH TO LEITH BY CANOE Adventurous Trip Round Fife Coast Unemployed Man’s Story 

A canoe adventure round the Fife coast came to an end to-day when John Collie, an unemployed welder, of 9 St Stevens Place, Edinburgh, set out on the last lap of his sea trip from Perth to Leith.

Clad only in a pair of flannel trousers, Collie left Kirkcaldy Harbour this afternoon in the best weather he had experienced on the whole trip from Stanley. A crowd of fishermen and bathers witnessed his departure in the 70-pound craft of his own construction.  He hoped to reach Granton about three hours later, making first for Burntisland, and then across the firth to Granton.

Relating his experiences to an “Evening Telegraph and Post” representative, Collie said—”My first intention was to sail from Leith to Perth round the Fife coast in my canoe, but I thought it better to reverse the journey, so I shipped the canoe on a carrier van and had it delivered at Stanley. 

“When I got to St Andrews I had only enough money to send a postcard to my mother in Edinburgh telling her how I was getting on. During the time I camped there I lived principally on the mussels gathered from the sea shore. 

“The worst part of my journey was coming round the Fife Ness, and l got a fright which made me put in at Cellardyke, where I remained for four days.” 

Collie proceeded to relate his unusual experience of finding himself ‘‘missing.” 

“At Pittenweem I entered a shop there,” he said. “and told the woman who I was,”

“But” she replied, “you are supposed to be missing., and everybody has been searching for you the past four days.  “That was a big surprise to me, and naturally I felt alarmed at the anxiety I had caused my relatives, and the shopkeeper allowed me to send a ’phone message to my mother. I have done nearly an 80-mile trip without a compass, without a watch, and without money for more than a fortnight.”

CELLARDYKE WANTS MORE TELEPHONES  Town “Cut Off” When Post Office Closes

By a Correspondent.

Residents in Cellardyke have a complaint against the Post Office regarding the inadequate public telephone facilities.  While Anstruther can boast of several public ‘phones in its Post Office, and a callbox in Shore Street which is available at all times, Cellardyke folks have to be content with one public telephone. This is situated in the local Post Office, and when the office is closed the telephone is not available.  In cases of illness during the night, “when it is desired to summon a doctor, the residents must either seek the use of some subscriber’s telephone or travel to Anstruther where all the local practitioners reside.  Should one require the services of a taxicab after Cellardyke Post Office has closed for the night it is necessary, should one fail to obtain the use of some subscriber’s ‘phone, to walk to Anstruther to order the taxi. Surely a remarkable state affairs. 

Call Box Suggested. 

Much inconvenience would be avoided if the telephone authorities placed a call-box in one of the main streets of Cellardyke.  Or the problem could be solved merely by removing the instrument from Cellardyke Post Office, which is in James Street, and erecting it a call-box on the opposite side of the thoroughfare. An alcove formed by a building there would meet the purpose admirably.  Anstruther, although having better facilities for public ‘phoning than its neighbour Cellardyke, also has a grumble.  The telephone in the call-box on Shore Street appears to be a relic of the old National Telephone Company days, and to put through a trunk call is almost a test of physical endurance. The coin box will accept only pennies, and at the entry of each penny a knob has to be turned.

1934

SWIMMING GALA AT CELLARDYKE. A large crowd witnessed the gala at Cellardyke on Thursday night held under the auspices of the Cardinal’s Steps Amateur Swimming Club. There was a big entry. Mr George Brown, Cellardyke, gave a display of diving.

Results: — Girls. 13-16. 50 Yards Free Style—M. Ritchie. Breast Stroke—G. Corna’. Diving—M. Ritchie.

Women. 50 Yards Free style , M Thomson. Breast Stroke—M. Thomson.

Boys. under 12, 25 Yards Free Style—D. Reid. 14-16. 50 Yards Free Style–J. Beaton. Breast stroke—J. Beaton. Diving—A. Keay.

Men. 100 Yards Free Style—J. Beaton. 50 Yards Breast Stroke—R. Murray. Diving—A. Keay.

Blindfold Race—T. Jack.Egg-and. Spoon Sace—G. Brown. Pillow Fight—J. Horsburgh, Greasy pole—T. Jack.

Two Cellardyke Fishermen Drown,

Cries heard from the Harbour

Man Seen Struggling in Water

Diver Recovers Body of One of Victims 

Two Cellardyke fishermen were drowned at Fraserburgh last night. They were Charles Anderson (52), fisherman, and Robert Hodge (52), cook, both on board the steam drifter Mace, K.Y, 224, of Anstruther, Anderson resided at 24 Rodger Street, Cellardyke, and Hodge at 33 John Street, Cellardyke. It appears that the drifter called at Fraserburgh for bait yesterday, and was berthed at the South Breakwater. About eight p.m. the two deceased men left the drifter, and about 11.30 they called at a house in School Street, where several friends from Fife were staying. They failed to find them, and remained only a very few minutes, they then left for the harbour to return to the boat.

Heard Cries. 

At 1145 the harbour watchman, Gilbert Duthie, heard cries coming from the direction of Faithlie Basin. He met a policeman and they both at once went to investigate.

Going to the point of Station Jetty they saw a man struggling in the water. They at once threw a lifebelt, which they procured at the end of the pier, towards the drowning man. It alighted close to his arm. He appeared, however, to be unconscious, and made no effort to grasp the lifebelt, and in a few moments he sank.    

Grappling Operations,

 A boat in charge of James Sim, pilot, was at once procured, and grappling operations commenced. About 1 a.m. Anderson’s body was recovered by means of a grappling hook from the Station Jetty.  

 It was then discovered that Hodge. who had been in company with Anderson, was also missing. A search was then made at the same part of the harbour.

Diver Goes Down. 

About 7.40 a.m. a diver went down and recovered the body of Hodge. Both bodies were taken to the mortuary at the Isolation Hospital, and arrangements are being made for the bodies to be immediately removed to their homes at Cellardyke. 

There is little doubt but that the men, who were strangers to the town and did not know their way about the harbour, instead of going along the South Breakwater where their drifter was berthed, had gone along the Station Jetty which runs parallel to it, and in the darkness had walked over the point;

The accident is the first that has happened in Fraserburgh during the summer herring fishing.

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