Author: cellaradmin

1895

NOTICE TO FISHERMEN. PALLETS! PALLETS!! PALLETS!!!   MANUFACTURED from Best Selected Home Sheep Skin at THOS. SCOTT, 81 George Street, Cellardyke.

PATENT CANVAS PALLETS. ALEX. BLACK & CO. Patentees and Manufacturers, Cellardyke, have appointed Mr John Robertson Innes, Merchant, St Monance, sole Agent there. Customers in St Monans can only be supplied through him.

1896

LAUNCH OF A STEEL LINER AT LEITH. Another addition to the Anstruther fleet of Steam Line Fishing Vessels was made on Tuesday, by the launch at Leith from the building yard of Messrs Hawthorn & Co., of the steel liner ‘Kellie Castle,’ built to the order of the Castle Steam Fishing Company Limited. Being the first steel vessel built for the district a considerable number of the shareholders and their friends were present at the launch, and it is pleasing to report that all of them expressed their satisfaction with her appearance. Her dimensions are length 90 feet, breadth, moulded 19 feet, depth moulded 10 feet 6 inches. She will be supplied by the builders with compound surface condensing engines working at a pressure of 120 lbs, and is fitted with the most improved appliances for line fishing. The christening ceremony was performed by Miss Janet Gardner, daughter of Skipper Alexander Gardner, Cellardyke.

Thirteen Cellardyke boats left for Stromness and Scrabster this week, and four for the south.

1897

ACCIDENT.— Yesterday afternoon, while an apprentice named James Murray, belonging to Cellardyke, in the employment of W. Brown, joiner, was assisting to unload a lorry of wood at the shop part of the load slipped off, and falling on Murray’s leg broke the bone above the ankle. Dr Wilson, Anstruther, was sent for, and having dressed the limb the lad was afterwards conveyed home.

APPOINTMENT OF SKIPPER. Skipper David Birrell, Cellardyke, ham been appointed skipper of the steel steam liner being built at Dundee for the Tay Steam Fishing Coy, Ltd. The vessel is the companion one of the Largo Bay, which arrived at Anstruther yesterday afternoon. At one time it was intended to man her with a Broughty-Ferry crew, but this has been found impossible, and Skipper Birrell will have a Cellardyke crew, and fish from Anstruther. The vessel is expected to be ready in June.

1898

ATTACKING THE OLD BOATS AT LEVEN. Great complaint is made each summer about the smell from Leven dock, and the sanitary authorities are taking action in the matter. The Commission has wakened up the Kirkcaldy District Committee, and it in turn has stirred up the N. B. R. Company, who hold the dock. As a result the place is to be cleaned out, and part of the clearing will include the removal of the old boats which have lain there for many years. They belong to a former generation, and had their day long ago. Some are submerged when the dock is full, and all are the home of colonies of rats. An effort has been made to trace the owners, but no one will have anything to do with them, the accumulated rates are far above their value, and accordingly a warrant is to be asked from the Sheriff craving power to bring them.

OUTBREAK OF SCARLATINA FEVER. —ln Cellardyke, ten cases of scarlatina fever has been reported, and another suspected case was intimated yesterday. The fever is of a mild type. During the last three weeks two children have died of it. The disease is attacking children of the age from 3 to 10. Every means are taken to suppress the fever.

1899

OPENING ANNOUNCEMENT. PETER SMITH, Begs to intimate to the Inhabitants of Cellardyke, Anstruther. Pittenweem, St Monans, and surrounding Districts, that TOMORROW, (SATURDAY), he will Commence Business as GENERAL DRAPER at No. 1 John Street, Cellardyke, and hopes by strict attention to Business, offering Goods of Superior Quality at MODERATE PRICES to merit a share of public Patronage

STORNOWAY FISHING. A telegram from Stornoway last night at seven o’clock states that 400 boats landed 12,000 crans yesterday, the Cellardyke boat, Providence, had 29 crans at 9s per cran, and the Vivid 30 crans at 2s 9d.

PROPERTY SALE.—In the Town Hall, Cellardyke, on Friday, Messrs Mackintosh & Watson, solicitors, offered for sale a house in Dove Street belonging to Mrs H. Reid or Bett, Australia. A sum of £75 was offered subject to acceptance or rejection within 10 days.

THE SALE OF THE K.Y. BOOT PREMISES. These premises were re-again exposed for sale by public roup by the liquidators in the Town Hall, Cellardyke, last Friday afternoon at the upset price of £180. Only one offerer appeared, but Mr Bonthron, who officiated as auctioneer, got no bid for the property at that figure. Mr Watson said he had the consent of the co-liquidator, Mr W. T. Ketchen, Methil, to reduce the upset price to £170 but no lower, and at that sum, it was knocked down to Mr James Leslie, manufacturer.

1890

On Sunday afternoon funeral services were conducted in Kilrenny Parish Church and in the Free Church, Anstruther, in connection with the Ioss of the Cellardyke boat and crew of seven men. Both clergymen referred to the men as being very respectable and Godfearing men, and being composed of the pick of Cellardyke fishermen. (Garland)

1891

SKIPPER HENRY BETT and CREW of the Cellardyke Boat “Rob the Ranter,” beg to thank the Directors of the Scottish Boat Insurance Company, Fraserburgh, for the speedy settlement of their Claim for damage done to their gear in a recent storm at Yarmouth, having through their Agent, Mr THOMAS CUNNINGHAM, Anstruther, received £26 16s 4d, as the proportionate share of the loss. ( apologies this article was Dec 1891 not April)

1892

SEAMAN KNOCKED OVERBOARD. The Cellardyke boat Fifeshire put into Elie yesterday morning, and the skipper reported that while tacking in the storm late on Wednesday night near the Carr Rock, at the mouth of the Firth of Forth, George Anderson (Tarvit), belonging to Cellardyke, was struck by a sail and knocked overboard. A heavy sea was raging at the time, and he was never seen again. He was 37 years of age, and leaves a widow and two children.

Last Friday evening intelligence was received in Cellardyke, of the foundering of a yawl in St Andrews Bay with the loss of the crew of three, all belonging to Cellardyke. It appears that the skipper of the fishing boat Comet of St Andrews (Andrew Gordon) observed on Friday afternoon a small yawl at the west side of the Carr Rock full of water, with her mast alongside. There was a strong westerly gale blowing at the time, and it was with considerable difficulty and some risk that Gordon and his crew took the yawl in tow. After boding out the water, the boat proved to be to Ross, of Cellardyke, and had been engaged in crab and lobster fishing at Boarhills almost four miles to the east of St Andrews. There was nothing in the boat except a couple of lobsters. The Rose left Boarhills in the morning in charge of her owner and skipper George Smith, who was an elderly man, upwards of 60 years of age. The crew consisted of the skipper and two young fishermen William Smith and Adam Dick, 16 and 18 years of age respectively belonging to Cellardyke. When the Comet towed the Rose into St Andrews harbour there was a large crowd on the pier. The Rose is a tidy little yawl, but the fishermen consider that she was by far too small a craft to venture out of Boarhills harbour on a gusty mid boisterous day such as Friday. The accident has cast quite a gloom over the fishing population, and much sympathy is felt with the bereaved relatives of the lost crew.

1893

Exposure of Property – On Saturday afternoon, the fishcuring premises in Shore Wynd, Cellardyke, were exposed for sale by public coup in the Town Hall. Only one offer was given, but as the sum was far below the reserve bode, it was not accepted, and the sale adjourned. Some house and cellars in Sharp’s Close were also put up, but no offerers came forward.

1894

Rev. Mr Ray, Cellardyke was presented last night with a full set of pulpit robes by his congregation and Young Men’s Guild.

Some of the Cellardyke skippers refused to pay their boat rates on Saturday, and are to continue this practice until the harbour ground is made even. Other skippers decline to join them until the grievance has been laid before the harbour Commissioners, and a refusal given that nothing will be done. It is alleged that the uneven bottom of the harbour causes damage to the boats by springing their timbers on account of the strain when aground.

1885

Anstruther Harbour Commission

..Other two applications were submitted for the situation of harbour master—one by Thomas Tarvit, harbour pilot ; the other by Mr Alexander Stewart, late of Elie. who stated that he had been for years in command both of home and foreign vessels. A strongly-phrased memorial in the name of certain fishermen in Cellardyke was also lodged on behalf of Alexander Jack, one of the two previous applicants; but, on the motion of Mr Bonthrone, seconded by Mr Adamson, it woe agreed with one voice to appoint Mr William Lyall, retired shipmaster, Cellardyke ;—to enter on the duties on the 1st proximo —at a salary of £25 a year.

Coopering

The most remarkable step, however, yet achieved in the way of progress is at the steammills of Cellardyke, where Mr Thomas Cormack has so utilised that wizard steam, that he can, and is, usually turning out some 400 barrels a-week. Who has not seen the cooper sweating and panting with truss-hoop and hammer? It ruined, as we all know, many a noble constitution; “but this worse than Alabama slavery,” as the poet Gilfillan used to say, is a thing of the past at Cellardyke, while the trussing is so perfected—we use the word advisedly—by the all-persuasive embrace or leverage, if you will, of the steam-wrought cone, that the cooper is only left to fasten the hoop by the hour with the same quiet and steady hand as you see the carpenter at work on the contiguous bench. The value of such an Invention is not to be over-estimated. How often has the sea harvest proved other than a blessing to those engaged in it, by the failure of the supplies which are now provided with such facility by Mr Cormack.

1886

Leith Police Court – Alex Hodge , fisherman, Cellardyke charged with being drunk, forfeited 5s.

1887

Impressive Scene. — Thursday morning last week the young man, Charles Coull, of the Ferryden boat, “Alexander,” who was struck with lightning in the late storm, died after severe suffering. His corpse was conveyed to Ferryden by boat, and the whole of the Cellardyke fishermen, dressed their blue clothes, to the number of between 400 and 500, attended the mournful procession to Anstruther harbour—walking four abreast. The father briefly expressed his thanks for the kindness which he had experienced on every hand in Cellardyke.

John R. Foubisher, master of the steam trawler, “Malta,” of Granton, was charged with anchoring on 28th January his trawler a little to the east of the Isle of May, where drift net fishing was going on, whereby the nets of the “Maggie Scott’’—skipper Alex. Gardiner (Watson)—Cellardyke, were damaged to the extent of £1; and those of the “ Four Brothers —skipper Thomas Birrell— Cellardyke, to the extent of £12. The crews of the “Maggie Scott” and the “Four Brothers” deponed to having on the afternoon of Friday 28th January shot their nets in the shelter of the Isle of May, at a distance of about half or three quarters of mile from the trawler, which was then at anchor. Through the unexpected action of the tides, which are very fickle at that point, the nets were carried down upon the trawler, and sustained damage to the amount named. Both crews said there was nothing to prevent the trawler from lifting her anchor, and that the customary lights were not put up to show that the trawler was unmanageable. For the defence the mate and others of the crew of the trawler stated that they had been obliged to anchor in the shelter of the May through stress of weather, and that their bunker of coals had caught fire on the afternoon of the day in question, and was not yet extinguished, it was unsafe to raise the anchor in the circumstances, as the whole boat might have been set on fire. Sheriff Henderson deemed that excuse quite satisfactory, and found Foubisher not guilty.

FATAL ACCIDENT AT KILCONQUHAR STATION. Last night a sad accident occurred at Kilconquhar Station. A large crowd had gathered at the station waiting on the half-past six o’clock train. and as it entered the station, Charles Clark, an ironmonger with Mr Dalzell, Anstruther, and residing with his parents in Cellardyke, tried to get into a carriage while in motion. Owing to the surging of the crowd he lost his hold, and fell in between two carriages. Immediately the signal was given to the driver to have the train stopped, but this was not done before two of the carriages had gone over him, almost severing his right leg from his body, and inflicting severe internal injuries. Clark was conveyed to one of the waiting rooms, and the services of Dr William Fordyce, who fortunately happened to be in the train on his way to Anstruther, obtained. Everything was done to alleviate the sufferings of the injured lad, but although he regained consciousness and retained it to the last, he died about an hour afterwards, about eight o’clock. Dr Clouston, Colinsburgh, arrived before life was extinct, and said that the injuries were so serious that nothing have been done to save him. Intelligence was conveyed to his parents in Cellardyke, and last night the body was brought to Cellardyke. The melancholy accident has evoked a considerable amount of sympathy for the parents in being so suddenly bereft of their son who was so well known. The young lad, who was in his 19th year, expressed a wish to see a minister before he died and the Rev. Mr Legge of Kilconquhar arrived is time to engage in prayer with him. At the conclusion he fervently joined the Amen, and shortly afterwards expired.

1888

DISPUTE AS TO A NEW BOAT. William Jarvis, boatbuilder, Anstruther, sued Thomas Ritchie, fisherman, Cellardyke, for £8 1s 10d for supplying material to his boat. Ritchie, on being asked for his defence, said he had a number of complaints to make. He contracted with Mr Jarvis for a new boat, and everything was to be satisfactory . He objected to the stern posts, which were insufficient, and he found there were two or three rotten timbers, and the forestep, which was the moat particular thing in a boat, was very bad. He had paid for the boat in different instalments, and when Mr Jarvis asked for this money for putting in the things he had mentioned, he said “you have taken your own way to build the boat, and I will take my own way of paying you.” Had he known then what he knew now about the boat he would have kept £15 off the account. He had to buy a new mast at Peterhead for which he paid £6, and he lost £3 10. upon the old one supplied by Mr Jarvis. Besides the boat Mr Jarvis had sold to another skipper should have been his. This boat cost £205, and Mr Jarvis charged him £216 for the one he got. Mr Jarvis held he was perfectly entitled to charge for the articles supplied, and was not bound to give them for nothing. The boat was one of the best of the fleet. The Sheriff said from what the pursuer had said he was taking the law into his own hands, and he could not allow that. He said he knew from the beginning that he was getting a bad boat. If that were so he was not bound to take it, and he ought to have seen that everything well done according to the contract. He had not seen to that, but took the boat knowing that in his opinion the contract had not been carried out to his satisfaction. In these circumstances he did not see what else he could do but grant decree. He was sorry if he had got a bad boat, but he had his own self to blame. Mr Welch suggested to his Lordship that he should remit the account to a practical boatbuilder not connected with Anstruther, and let him, say whether the new articles charged for were reasonable or not, or should have been contracted for at the first. The Sheriff accepted the suggestion, and remitted to Mr Miller, boatbuilder, St Andrews, to go over the contract and account. Mr Miller’s report would come before the court in July, but he advised defender to try and come to a settlement with Mr Jarvis, as that would be the cheapest course in the end. Defender said in that case he would require time to pay. He was not able at present. The Sheriff—You can consult with Mr Jarvis afterwards, and we will hear the result in July.

A DESERTION CASE – The next case was that of Westwood against Marr, fishermen, Cellardyke, which had been continued from last court. Pursuer claimed damages for inlying charges of a child of which defender was the father, and also for the upkeep of the child since he had left his wife, a daughter of the pursuer. Mr Welch, who appeared for defender, said he was afraid his Lordship had no jurisdiction in a case of this sort. It was a claim for damages in a case of desertion, and that could only be taken in the Court of Session. The Sheriff agreed, and said he had no status in this case He advised pursuer to apply to the Court of Session for a divorce, and for damages for desertion. The Court of Session had decided that a man was not bound to pay for the upkeep of his wife when she lived outside his house. At present he was asked to practically decide a case of expenses in a case of separation, and could not do such a thing. The action was dismissed.

The last contested case was that of John Morris, baker, Cellardyke, against Alexander Pattie, carter, Cellardyke, for an account for bread and bran. Defender and his wife appeared, and held that they had paid £6 they had not got credit for. This was denied by Mr Guthrie on behalf of Mr Morris. Some wrangling ensued between the parties, and the Sheriff had twice to speak sharply to Mrs Pattie, whom he threatened to put into custody. Ultimately the Sheriff said he did not believe a word the defenders had said, and granted decree with expenses. The Court lasted nearly three hours.

CELLARDYKE. A NEIGHBOURS’ QUARREL—A rather conflicting case came before the Magistrates of Cellardyke on Saturday—Provost Martin and Bailie Sharp on the bench. Robert Watson and Betsy Keay were accused of assault, in far that the one kicked and the other scratched their neighbour, Catherine Sutherland, the wife of Alexander Wood, on the afternoon of Friday of last week. They protested their innocence, and the complainer and also Thomas Muir and Mrs Agnes Wilson or Sutherland were examined by the Fiscal. Four witnesses appeared for the defence, but, after a long and patient hearing, the Magistrates held the charge so far proved, but in respect of the very conflicting nature of the evidence the sentence was modified in the case of the skipper to 10s, and in that of his wife to 2s 6d, or in default to six days’ imprisonment in Kirkcaldy jail. The fines were paid.

1880

MELANCHOLY OCCURRENCE AT SEA. THREE CELLARDYKE FISHERMEN DROWNED. On Wednesday morning, as the boat Southern Cross, Alexander Fowler, master, was running home from the great lines she was struck with a tremendous sea while crossing the Morray Bank, some ten leagues or so from the Isle of May. Two of the crew, Andrew Flemming, who was at the helm, and Andrew Brown, who was standing on the hatchway, were washed overboard and drowned, while another of the crew, Thomas Keay, was also severely crushed between the spars, which had been cast loose by the same fatal sea. Skipper Fowler, with great presence of mind, cast loose the sheet on the boat, or one and all would doubtless have been engulfed in destruction. Fleming leaves a widow and five children, and Brown widow and two children, all of whom are more or less helpless and dependent. Another melancholy disaster occurred on board of the Cellardyke boat Onyx, Robert Meldrum, master, which also encountered the storm in the North Sea. The Onyx, like the Southern Cross, was homeward bound, and while close reefed in mid ocean she was struck by one of those treacherous billows only too well known in the navigation of the North Sea. At this instant one of the crew, Andrew Muir, was swept into the sea, and though for time he sustained an unequal struggle with the storm, he perished before the boat could beat up to his rescue. Another of the crew, David Wood, was severely cut on the forehead, through a blow dealt by the heel of his lost comrade, while in the clutches of the sea, which threw him over the gunwale. Muir leaves widow and five helpless children.

MR WILLIAMSON MP AND CONSTITUENTS. Mr Stephen Williamson the intelligence of whose return for the St Andrews Burghs was received the East of Fife in with great rejoicings, on Wednesday paid a visit to the coast burghs, and was everywhere received in the most cordial manner. At East Anstruther he was carried shoulder high into Town Hall; and on returning from Crail to meeting at Cellardyke he was met by several hundred fishermen, who unyoked the horses from his carriage, which was first pulled down to Cellardyke and afterwards to the residence of his mother in Anstruther. Here a large crowd collected and amidst loud cheers, Mr Williamson, was again carried shoulder high to Belfield House. The hon. member left by the last train for Cheshire in order to vote for the liberal candidates there., and his carriage was pulled to the railway station by a number of fishermen. Before leaving Anstruther Mr & Mrs Williamson briefly acknowledged their appreciation of the magnificent reception they had received in all the coast burghs.

1881

One evening last week, a fine boy seven years of age, the son of Mr Alexander Rodger, fisherman, Cellardyke, was sent to deliver a garden spade in an adjacent street. He seems to have overbalanced himself or his burthen, as on going home he complained of a stroke to the temple. There being neither cut nor blemish it did not excite, perhaps, a second thought, but towards nightfall the poor little victim began to exhibit every symptom of concussion of the brain. The Doctor was called in, but an enemy was at work that no skill could baffle or dislodge, and after lingering almost without hope from the first, he was released from his sufferings on Monday morning. No little sympathy is felt for the family in this unlooked-for bereavement.

1882

(There was a bad storm and many of the boats made their way to Leith) –

On Friday night one of the fishermen, named McReuvie, belonging to a Cellardyke boat, which was lying in the Old Dock, missed his footing while going on board a steamer to reach his boat, and fell between the quay wall and the vessel, but was happily not very seriously injured. He was taken to Leith Hospital, and it is expected will be able to leave a few days.

Fisheries Exhibition Edinburgh

Messrs Sharp & Murray. Cellardyke, show a most complete collection of nets, lines, and deep-sea fishing gear, all so admirably arranged as to make their working plain to the merest tyro. As noteworthy fact, illustrating the extent and value of gear required by even comparatively small fishing community, it may be here mentioned that the great and haddock lines of the Cellardyke fleet would extend to the enormous length of 1200 miles.

1883

Anstruther – Handsome Donations.— Sir Walter W. Hughes has forwarded from London, to his friend, Mr Bowman, Town-Clerk, gift of £100 the Fishermen’s Society ; also, to Mr Nicholson, Session clerk, a donation of £10 for the churchyard improvement of his native town of Pittenweem. Sir Walter has also sent £100 through Bailie Sharp to the Fisherman’s Union of Cellardyke, where he wrought both as apprentice and man in the cooperage of the Bailie’s father, or rather, let us say, where he had his early home till he entered on that adventurous and romantic career, attended in the end with such brilliant success. – another article  – CELLARDYKE. DONATION TO THE CELLARDYKE FISHERMAN’S BENEFIT SOCIETY. —We understand that Sir Walter Watson Heughs., of Wallaroo, has sent through Bailie Sharp the handsome sum of £100 to be added to the permanent fund of this Society. The fund now amounts to £600.

International Fisheries Exhibition. –Twelve Cellardyke fishermen have been selected from whom to choose four representatives to visit the forthcoming Exhibition in London, They are expected to absent a fortnight, and their expenses are to paid.

1884

About the beginning of last month we reported that the KY boat (No. 1453), Cellardyke, had got one of her masts damaged, and that she was towed up the river by the steam tug Storm King. For this a salvage of £20 has been claimed by the Tug Company. This claim, we understand, is to be resisted, on the alleged grounds that, in the circumstances, it is quite unwarrantable, as the boat had entered the river, and was in no danger, and that therefore the tug was not entitled to anything more than an ordinary pilotage, which would amount to about 15s. Similar and heavier claims have been made upon two Ferryden boats, and should this case go into Court it will excite a vivid interest.

1920

MR J. DUNCAN MILLAR AND WAR PENSIONS. In pursuance of his candidature as Liberal candidate for East Fife Mr J. Duncan Millar addressed crowded meetings at Pittenweem and Cellardyke last night. Provost Ogilvie presided at Pittenweem. Mr Millar referred to various matters affecting the interests of the fishing community and the re-establishment of the fishing industry after the war. He pleaded for speedy reopening of the Continental markets in Russia and Germany. A unanimous vote of confidence was passed. Asked at Cellardyke as to the delay in the payment of war gratuities, Mr Millar expressed his regret at the failure of the machinery of the War Pensions Department to deal adequately with all cases.

1923

Methil, the death of Mr A. G. Nicholson, a well-known native, has occurred at Cowes, Isle of Wight. Both at Kilrenny in December, 1846, served his apprenticeship with the late Mr Ireland, builder. Cellardyke, and afterwards became master builder in Glasgow. Later he became associated with his brothers in the confectionery business, and was well known commercial traveller throughout Fife and Scotland generally. Deceased took a keen interest in social work, particularly in the advancement of the young, he was concerned various Welfare Associations and in the Boys’ Brigade. Mr Nicholson latterly took business In Methil. from which retired few years ago and settled in Cowes with his son, Mr G. M. Nicolson, S.S. C. He was in his 77^th year.

1925

FREEMASONS’ CEREMONIAL AT CELLARDYKE. On the invitation of Lodge Ayle (No. 95), Anstruther, Freemasons from various parts of Fife to the number of 200 attended divine service in Cellardyke Parish Church yesterday. The parade of the brethren they marched in full regalia to the church headed by a silver band, made an imposing spectacle which was witnessed by large crowds. The whole body of the church was reserved for the brethren. Brother James R. Lee, Chaplain of Lodge St Ayle, conducted the service. Amongst the lodges represented were:—St Adrian, Pittenweem; Balcarres, Colinsburgh; St Andrews at Crail, Crail; St Andrews, St Andrews; Earl Haig, Leven; Balfour Melville, Methil; Lodge Balcomie and Dreel Castle Royal Arch Chapter, Anstruther.

INJURY TO CELLARDYKE CONTRACTOR. Anstruther goods station mishap. A distressing accident occurred at Anstruther Goods Station yesterday. While attempting to pass between two railway waggons, Mr Alexander Smith, contractor, Cellardyke, was caught between the buffers and severely injured. Medical examination disclosed three ribs broken.

1927

‘BUS OVERCROWDING IN FIFE. Offenders Fined At Cupar. Hon. Sheriff Stark at Cupar to-day imposed a fine of 20s on Jessie Higgins, ‘bus conductress, 8 Swan Street, Denbeath, who admitted carrying 10 passengers in excess of the number in her vehicle was instructed to carry. James Stevenson, ‘bus driver, 25 James Street, Cellardyke, who was charged with having carried seven passengers excess, was also fined 20s. In this case, Mr lan Mclnnes, W.S., Cupar, who appeared, stated that the bus had been hired by Anstruther Philharmonic Society to take people home after a concert. When the people came out a policeman was on duty showing them into the bus in question.

LICENSING OF PLEASURE BOATS AT St ANDREWS HARBOUR. It was reported in the minutes of the Town Council that Alexander Ritchie, Cellardyke, had applied for a licence to run the motor boat, “Maconnachie,” at St Andrews Harbour during the season of 1927. The Committee recommended that the licence should be granted on the usual conditions, and that it should be made a condition of the licence that Ritchie will exercise personal supervision. The Council adopted the recommendation, but at a later stage of the meeting letters were read from Messrs R. Wilson & Son and Messrs J. Cargill & Son, who have rented the boating stances at the West Sands, pointing out that if more boats were licensed, confusion would be likely to arise. And Judge Reid suggested that the granting of a licence to Mr Ritchie be reconsidered. Judge Reid said that ample provision had already been made to provide all the boats that would required; and the licensing of another boat-hirer would mean that the local men would not be able to recoup themselves for the capital outlay they had made. The local men had a most intimate knowledge of the conditions round the coast, and could be trusted under any conditions to carry out that work with perfect safety. He therefore moved that the licences be confined the local men, seeing they were able to provide all the accommodation needed. Mr W. N. Boase seconded. It was pointed out that the approval of the Committee’s recommendation could, not be rescinded unless the Standing Orders were suspended. After a vote, the standing orders were suspended. Judge Reid then moved that in view of the information obtained that night from, the local fishermen who had got the boat hiring, and in view of the fact that they were able to provide all the accommodation needed, and also that the granting of further licences might lead to confusion, the Council disapprove of the minute, and confine the licences to local men. Mr Boase seconded. Bailie Bruce moved the approval of the minute. He said he had never heard of anyone getting a monopoly for a harbour. They should keep the harbour as an open port. lan Wilson seconded Bailie Bruce. On a division the voting was equal, and the Provost gave his casting vote in favour of the Committee’s recommendation.

1929

Mr Alexander Gourlay, fisherman, of 6 Dove Street, Cellardyke, who died on 11th February last, left a personal estate valued at £1091.

1885

ROUP OF A FISHING BOAT.—On Saturday afternoon the deep sea fishing boat Mizpah of Cellardyke, K.Y. 2023, belonging to A. &J. Cunningham, was exposed for sale by public roup at the middle pier, in presence of a large number of fishermen and others. Mr Bonthron officiated as the auctioneer. The boat was first exposed at £220, but there being no offers at that sum the price was reduced to £210. when Messrs Andrew Pratt, jun., and David Smith, Cellardyke, became the purchasers at that amount. The boat is to be delivered to them on the 15th of September next. (The boat was built at St Monans 3 ½ years previously, It was unusual to sell a boat in advance of handover. Unfortunately in July of that same year 1885 while still in the ownership of  her original skipper she was struck some 500 yards out of Aberdeen harbour by the steamer St Ronald and sunk, I have no knowledge of the how the arrangement with the new owners was sorted)

1886

EXTENSIVE FORGERY —At the Borough Petty Sessions (Uxbridge) on Thursday, March 18th, Alfred Ernest King, journeyman carpenter, of respectable appearance, was committed for trial at the Reading Assizes, on four separate charges of forging and uttering certain cheques knowing them to be forged. The prisoner, on the 22nd February presented a cheque for 10s. on the Clydesdale Bank, Anstruther, purporting to be drawn by W. E. Stewart, to M. G. Beagley, giving an order for materials for fencing at Sunningdale, which he said he was employed to erect by Mr. Steward. Mr. Beagley believed him, and gave him change by a cheque for £15 10s. The cheque prisoner gave was worthless and returned marked ‘No account.” A warrant was Issued for his apprehension. Evidence was given to show that no such person as W. E. Stewart lived in the neighbourhood, and a clerk from the Clydesdale Bank stated. that the cheque, with others subsequently produced was taken from a cheque book supplied in 1881, to Mrs. Davidson, grocer, living at Cellardyke, Fifeshire. Mrs. Davidson was dead, and her daughter. Miss Davidson, was now living at Sunningdale. It was at her house that prisoner lived with his wife, be having lived in that neighbourhood for years, and it was from her home that be abstracted the cheque book. The prisoner went to London on Feb. 23rd, and went to a furniture warehouse in Gray’s Inn road, where be selected goods to the amount of £8 10s 9d, and presented a cheque on the same bank far £13 10s, purporting to be signed by Sir Reginald Cathcart. …..” A third cheque for £8 10s. prisoner presented to Mr. James Peters, clothier, 190, High Street, Shoreditch, ……… The fourth cheque also purported to be drawn by “A. E. Steward,” for £10 10s. This the prisoner presented to Mr. S. Good’s, 78, Tottenham Court-road. …………. All the cheques were returned marked “No account.” The prisoner reserved his defence.

Launches -Anstruther shore was the scene of an interesting event on Saturday in the event of the launch of two deep sea fishing craft recently built by Mr. Jarvis. The first to dive into her destined element was the Resolute, 30 tons register owned by Mr. David Black of Pittenweem. She was followed in dashing style by her big sister, scarcely less than 60 ft in length and 35 NT, belonging to Mr James Smith of Cellardyke the son of the public-spirited Magistrate of the name. She is christened the James Ritchie Welch in recognition of the many services of that leading citizen of St Andrews to the fishing community, never so conspicuous by the way, as in his meritorious endeavour of late to rescue their hard won earnings, from the wrecked fortunes of the year. Ex Baillie Welch, who was present with his sister at the launch has, we understand, acknowledged the compliment with a gift of a beautiful barometer, so inscribed as to be at once a fitting and graceful memorial of the interesting event

1887

DESIRABLE PROPERTY IN CELLARDYKE FOR SALE. To be SOLD by Private Bargain, THAT DWELLING-HOUSE of Two 1 Storeys, including the WORKSHOP, numbered 6 and 8 John Street, Cellardyke, with the Large GARDEN behind, which extends to Forth Street, all as belonging to Mr JAMES WATSON (Salter.) For further particulars apply to MESSRS JAMIESON & GUTHRIE, Solicitors, Anstruther, with whom Offers may be lodged on or before 7th April 1887.

Later that week – SALE OF PROPERTY.—The dwelling house on the other side of Cellardyke Town Hall has just been sold by Mr James Watson, Salter, to the adjoining proprietrix, Mrs James Watson, publican, for the sum of £150

The fine deep sea boat in course of construction at St Monans by Mr Robertson has been sold to Mr Donald Henderson, of Cellardyke. She is to be employed, we hear, with net and line in the summer sea. – This vessel was the Vine KY417

TO LET, HOUSE and SHOP (together or separate) at 1 HARBOURHEAD, Cellardyke. House consisting of Kitchen, Back Kitchen, and 3 good sized Rooms. Apply to ALEX. MARR. grocer.

SALE OF BOATS. —The deep-sea fishing boat, the Reform, has been sold to Alexander Roger, Cellardyke, for £260. Mr Robert Heughes, Cellardyke, has purchased the new boat lying at the boatbuilding yard for fully £200. The expense of rigging out is to be borne by the purchaser.

BURGH COURT.—At this court, held on Saturday in Cellardyke Town Hall, David Brown Carstairs, was charged with assaulting Thomas Thomson, shoemaker, in his shop in James Street. The accused pled not guilty, but the complainer producing witnesses the panel was convicted on evidence, and mulcted in the sum of 7s –

At the Burgh Court of East Anstruther on Friday Provost Anderson and Bailie Darsie on the bench—Peter Boyter, fisherman, was accused of being drunk and disorderly at the shore on Saturday night. Pleading guilty. he was admonished and fined 10s.—A youth named Thomas Smith was charged with assaulting George Smith in the East Green on Thursday the 17th by throwing a turnip so as to strike him the eye. He admitted the charge, but under great provocation. Two Cellardyke bystanders were examined for the complaint, but the accused was dismissed with an admonition. The same panel was also accused of stealing six cakes of tobacco, from a box on the counter of Mr Calley, grocer land spirit merchant, at the Cross, on Saturday the 19th ult. He pleaded guilty and was fined 7s 6d

1888

RAILWAY COMPANIES (CARRIAGE of FISH) Bill..–Sir Edward Birkbeck, Bart., M.P., has agreed to alter Sub-Section B of the 6th clause of the Bill, so that the rates, partly by railway and partly by sea, shall not include a ferry over an arm of the sea worked and maintained by a Railway Company as part of its system. This is in accordance with the suggestion of Mr J. Ritchie Welch, of St Andrews, at the meeting of fishermen held at Cellardyke, and will be of great advantage to the Fife fishermen.

BICYCLE, 51 Inch, “Neilson,” in Good Order ; Lamp, almost new; Owner going abroad. Cost £10. Will be sold cheap. What Offer? Hutton, Rodger Street, Cellardyke, Fife.

Last Thursday, the Anchor Line steamer Anchoria left Glasgow for New York with nearly 600 emigrants and passengers, a considerable number of whom were from Edinburgh, two from Anstruther, and one from Cellardyke. The latter obtained their tickets for the passage across the Atlantic, and for the railway journey to Hamilton, Ontario, at the emigration office in Shore Street, Anstruther.

THE OLD LIFEBOAT, ” The Admiral Fitzroy,” which has been replaced by a new life-boat, and which was bought a week or two ago by Mr McKenzie, left Anstruther by rail on Monday for Kinsale.

1889

CELLARDYKE. PRESENTATION.—On Monday evening, the members of Cellardyke Established Church Choir waited upon Mr R. Melville at his house, and presented him with a beautiful silver mounted baton, on which was engraved a suitable inscription. Mr W. Orr, N.B.R., on behalf of the subscribers in a very appropriate speech made the presentation. Mr Melville in a few well chosen remarks, and in a very touching manner, thanked the subscribers for this entirely unexpected proof of their kindness. Thereafter a very pleasant and enjoyable evening was spent.

Owing to the low supplies of bait and the gale from the north-east, little or nothing has been done at the Lent fishing. We can only report three takes rising to £4 for the week. Cod ruled at 40s a score, but the price is low in view of so small a catch at this day of the year. Seventy sales took place at the pier last week, but prime cod only realised 30s. No little anxiety was felt for the boats caught in the gale. In particular, anxious faces flitted and fro asking for the Mary Anderson of Cellardyke, but the sail last emerged through the rain and the mist.. Not a few of the Fife boats refuse in Leith, &c.

Wholesale Thefts – By a Married Woman.— Alison Thomson, the wife of David Ramsay, labourer, Cellardyke, about 36 years of age, and the mother of seven children, was brought before the Kilrenny Burgh Court on Wednesday—all Magistrates on the bench – accused of eight separate acts of theft of wearing apparel, &e., from as many neighbours in the feus at Cellardyke.  She was also charged with a previous conviction on the 2^nd August, 1886 when she was sent sixty days to Cupar jail for stealing the sum of £10. The unfortunate panel, who was seemingly overcome with shame and repentance when too late, pleaded guilty. addressing the Court, Fiscal Peebles warned the householders not leave their clothes exposed in the gardens overnight, seeing that the practice was fraught with temptation to the dishonest. Provost, Martin said that he never before had to deal with such serious and painful case. The panel was sentenced as before to sixty days in Dundee Jail.

1880

Before the Magistrates of West Anstruther on Saturday—a carter lad, named Fleming, in the employment of Mr Cormack, fish-merchant, Cellardyke, was accused of furious driving near the Railway Station, but as the charge was only sworn to by a single witness, the bench dismissed the case as not proved.—Another young Cellardyke carter, Robert Pattie, was charged with a similar offence, but here Mr Guthrie, the Fiscal of Court, obtained a conviction, when the panel was fined in the sum of 7s 6d.—James Brunton, fisherman, Cellardyke, was charged with a breach of the peace, but on evidence being led, the averments of the complainers, George Elder and his father, went to show that the altercation was so much of a family quarrel, in which it was impossible to say who was worse, that the Ballies dismissed the charge.

Furious Driving. – Everyone can understand that the value of herring, or fish in general very much depends on the expedition with which they can be sent to market, hence the rush on all sides to overtake the first train. Carters, however, at least, so think the authorities, occasionally exceed discretion, and the safety of the lives and limbs of the lieges, especially when an accident does occur, as it did the other day to an orphan boy named Drummond who had his foot run over near the Post-Office. Thus, on Friday last, before the East Anstruther Ballies, Alexander McRobie and David Parker, carters, Anstruther, and David Scott, carter, Cellardyke, were charged under the Lindsay Act with furious driving on the occasion of the accident referred to. They severally denied the charge, when three neighbour wives were called to prove the complaint. According to this testimony, the misfortune of the boy bad happened, not through the fault or recklessness of the drivers, but by the “shying” of one of the horses, and altogether the proof was so confused and unsatisfactory, that the panels were dismissed with a reprimand from the bar.

1881

After a day or two of bright, and even genial sunshine, the wind again became tempered with frost on Sabbath. On the following day was still more intense, and as if to complete the wintry aspect of the picture, snow fell thickly with the gathering twilight. Towards morning the frost became keener than ever, and where not crispy with the snow, the ground rang like irorf under the feet, but the brilliant sunshine soon altered the hue of the landscape, when night was only needed to make the reign of the frost supreme as ever. Monday the gale was so high that very few of the boats ventured to sea, but on the following night general trial was made in the Forth for herring bait for the great line fishing. The six Cellardyke boats that sailed last week for Shetland had a splendid run to the islands, making the trip from port to port in fifty hours.

Intelligence was received here the other day that Captain James Webster, of the ship Mary Stenhouse, of and for Liverpool from Calcutta, died on the 16th January in the Indian Ocean, where his body was consigned to sailor’s grave, James Webster was a native of Cellardyke. He served his time as carpenter in Dundee before taking to shipboard, where his success is another illustration of what a sailor’s destiny may be. He was about fifty-five years of age, and has left a wife and family to mourn his loss.

1882

OBSTRUCTING BTHE HARBOUR ENTRANCE. The Clerk also stated that he had received two verbal complaints from Peter Murray, skipper, as to boats lying in the fairway at the entrance to the old harbour, whereby his boat was prevented from getting inside the harbour, besides sustaining damage. This occurred on two different occasions lately—once when, being out at sea and the weather very stormy, his mast was broken, and he came into the harbour to procure another mast. On reaching the mouth of the old harbour, he found the fairway blocked up with boats, so that he could not get near the quay to ship another mast which he had lying at a particular place. He wished the harbour-master to get the passage cleared, but failed to get this done for him. As he wished to go out to sea again to recover his gear, which he had left at sea, he applied to another person for the loan of a mast which lay near the entrance, and was thus put to great inconvenience and loss of time. On the second occasion, on coming into the harbour he found the fairway again blocked, and in trying to get his boat into a berth, had got it damaged by colliding with other boats, the repairs costing about 5s.  He (the Clerk) had thought it right to get the harbour-master’s statement of the affair, and he was now in attendance to give any explanation. The Harbour-master said on the occasion first alluded to the harbour was very crowded, there being more than 200 boats in it. They had mostly come in with the flood tide, and the skippers seemed anxious to keep as near as possible the entrance in order to get out early when the tide came in. He said on that occasion Skipper Murray wanted him (the harbour-master) to send the bell through Cellardyke in order that those who had their boats lying there might come and remove them, in order that Murray might get in. It was at eleven o’clock at night, however, when there would be great difficulty in doing this; so, in order to allow Murray to get a mast to go to sea again, he suggested to him to haul his boat to the entrance quay, and to carry the mast which he had borrowed along the quay to that spot, which was done. He denied that the fairway was completely closed up, for there was a passage left about a breadth and a half of a boat. He knew he was empowered to employ men at the expense of the owners of boats to remove them out of the fairways or where they blocked up the traffic, if persons were not left in charge of the boats; but he could not get men at that time of night, and had to do the best they could when such a crowd of boats were in the harbour. He added, that not-withstanding the great number of boats frequenting the harbour this season, there had been little or no obstruction or hinderance in it.

At the Fishery Exhibition shortly to be held in Edinburgh, not the least interesting exhibits will be those of Mr Peter Thomson, general merchant, Cellardyke. The idea is a novel one, as it seeks to give a practical illustration of the dress, or attire, to the last detail of the seafaring men of the coast, which Mr Thomson proposes to do by three life-size models of the Cellardyke fisherman, as at sea, on shore, and at church.

1883

CELLARDYKE. FISHERMAN DROWNED. —Within less than a week a second calamity has befallen the shores of Fife in the loss at sea of Thomas Pratt, one of the crew of the deep-sea boat “Phoenix” of Cellardyke. In the twilight of Monday they were about to cast their nets about a mile in the offing of when the unfortunate young man, without any perceivable cause, lost his balance end fell overboard. His comrades sprang to the rescue. but, in the very act of cheering him in his gallant efforts to swim, they saw him give a convulsive stroke and sink into a watery grave. The “Phoenix” then returned after an absence of less than two hour. to the shore. ( The previous week it was reported that ex pat Dykers, David and Robert Boyter had drowned in an accident in Canada)

Ransom Price of Fish. – The tempestuous weather has seriously checked the sea doings of the week. Gale followed gale from the southward, but nevertheless the crews gallantly put to sea—now with net, now with line, and in some cases, at least, their devotion was not in vain. On Wednesday night tar barrels were blazed to warn boats from attempting Anstruther harbour, being the second signal of the kind this week; but one Cellardyke boat, the Water lily, safely ran the gauntlet, and realised not less than £27 for her deep sea haul. Several boats bore away for Newhaven, but this may be said to have closed the market on the Fife coast for Good Friday, in anticipation of which fish have sold as they never sold before Anster pier—cod fetching 6s and ling -7s 6d a piece in the auctions Wednesday. By the evening in question about forty takes had been sold here, , ranging from£5 to  £20.At St Monans  several sales have also taken place in the course of the week, but the doings are in marked contrast to those of the previous one, when some crews in particular earned from £15 to £80.

INDUSTRIES OF CELLARDYKE. NET MANUFACTURING AND OILSKINS.

The rapidly increasing population of Cellardyke has led to a proportionate increase in the trade of the town, and a few details as to the present state of the staple trades may not be unacceptable to our readers.

MESSRS SHARP & MURRAY. This firm, in addition to their large fish Curing establishments at Anstruther, Aberdeen, and elsewhere in the north east coast of Scotland, made an early start in the manufacture of nets. A large and well-lighted factory was erected at the foot of the Windmill Road, and since its erection a large business has been done. At present there are 18 net looms in operation, all of the newest construction. The demand for nets made in Cellardyke is so good that all the machines are constantly kept going. In addition to the net factory, Messrs Sharp & Murray have a large establishment for the manufacture of oilskin and fishing material, for which there is always a large demand. Independent of their fishcuring and general business, the firm have about 50 persons regularly employed.

R. WATSON CO. The net factory of this firm is about to be enlarged in consequence of the increased demand. At present there are only nine machines, or net looms, but that number will shortly be doubled, and the number of nets prepared will then from 40 to 50 per week. As in the other net factories, the machines are of the most recent construction, and their complicated nature may be inferred from the fact that there are 2500 small pieces in each machine. A great deal of the work is done by steam power, a steam engine of 4 horse power being on the premises. In one of the rooms there are boilers for barking the nets, and we were informed that above 1000 lbs. could be barked at one dip. The premises of the firm are being added to by a large addition on the west side. The firm also prepare every description of fishing lines. The premises, which are almost all new, have been fitted up with a due regard to the health and comfort of the workers, the different apartments being all very clean, well-aired, and lighted. The oilskin manufactory is in the Urquhart Wynd. Here the different oilskin garments are oiled, dried, &c., and the present accommodation, which is in course of being enlarged, is capable of allowing 500 dozens to be hung up. The extra accommodation to be provided will admit of room for fully another 100 dozen. Messrs Watson & Co. also do a large trade in the manufacture of bladder buoys. The firm employ about 50 hands.

MESSRS JOHN MARTIN & CO. This firm employ a large number of women, who are kept in constant work in the manufacture of every description of fishing material. Lines suitable for nearly every port in the northeast coast of Scotland are sent out ready for casting into the sea, and all sorts of oilskins are also made on the premises, which are very extensive and conducted on the most approved principles.

THE CELLARDYKE OILSKIN FACTORY. Under the above designation, the recently constituted firm of Duncan & Black propose to add somewhat to the industries of Cellardyke. They lately acquired the business and plant of a large net manufacturing firm in Leith, which they are at present carrying on vigorously, and it is intended, we believe, to transfer the plant to Cellardyke, in a range of new premises about to be erected on the site adjoining their present in James Street, and which was long occupied as an oilskin factory by the late Mr Horsburgh and his son-in-law, Mr Wm. Duncan. In this factory it is proposed to place in the meantime seventeen net looms, but accommodation is to be provided for more when necessary, and the works are expected to be in full operation in July next. In addition to net manufactory, Messrs Duncan & Black carry on a large trade in every kind of oilskin and fishermen’s lines, and the additions now about to be made sill afford a good deal of employment in Cellardyke.

1884

REMARKABLE ESCAPE FROM DROWNING. Stonehaven, Thursday. A severe south-south-west gale was blowing during the morning, and the sea was running high, being driven into clean smoke by the force of the wind, A number of Cellardyke boats caught in the gale put in here during the day. The crew of the “Endeavour,” KY., 2052, George Moncrieff, skipper, reports the providential escape of one of their number from drowning. While about 2 miles off Crawtouness some additional sail was being put out, when a lad named Michael Pratt, who was assisting in the work, was struck by the fore yard, and knocked overboard. Another of the crew, named Peter Muir, observing what had happened, threw a rope to Pratt, and a coil happening to go round his neck, he was towed along with the boat through the rolling sea. Pratt having got hold of the rope with his hands, attempts were made with a boathook to pull him aboard, but each time his clothes gave way, and he was in eminent danger of being drowned. Ultimately a rope was passed round one of the lad’s legs, and in this way he was hauled aboard. On landing Pratt was taken to a house in the Old Town, and Dr Edmond was called to attend him. He is not yet out of danger.

CELLARDYKE BOATS IN PERIL AT MONTROSE. Early yesterday morning the wind blew in variable gusty blasts between the south and west, and so continued until far on in the morning, when it partially abated. Two KY boats, numbering respectively 1651 and 1453, entered the harbour. The former did so without assistance, and had a shot valued at £11; but the latter had been put to great stress by the violence of the gale. She was shortly after midnight within two miles of Anstruther, from which she hails, when the gale struck her fiercely, split her foremast, and drove her struggling and almost helpless crew far north Montrose Bay, where they succeeded in anchoring, and from which they were safely brought into the harbour the steam-tug.

1915

Saturday Night Brawl.—Before Provost Readdie. at a Burgh Court, on Monday, Alexander Moncrieff, fisherman, Cellardyke, pleaded guilty to having created a breach of the peace in the Shore Street on Saturday night. It was stated that Moncrieff was the worse of liquor at the time. Moncrieff said he was to leave next day to join the colliery transport engaged by the Admiralty. This fact was kept in view by the Provost, who imposed a fine of 30s, with the alternative of 20 days. The fine was paid.

The following men have joined the Royal Naval Reserve: —Messrs David Watson, Thomas Lothian, Robert Smith, and D. Mackay. of Cellardyke; and R. McKenzie, Pittenweem.

Result of School Concert. With the proceeds of the school concerts held recently, a strong, serviceable knife is to be sent to each soldier or sailor belonging to West Anstruther, East Anstruther. Cellardyke. and Kilrenny. The knife will bear an inscription appropriate to the occasion, and should, therefore, prove a suitable memento, besides proving of considerable practical utility. Bailie Butters, Cellardyke, has kindly undertaken to supply the knives at cost price. The first consignment is expected to arrive in the course of this week. A knife is to be sent to each man whose name appears on any of the local Church Rolls of Honour. The friends of those, who are at present serving in any branch of the Army or Navy, but whose names do not appear on any Church list, should communicate immediately with the Headmaster of Cellardyke School, otherwise no knives will be sent to those men. Thanks are due to the local clergymen, who willingly supplied all the information necessary for the compilation of a general list, while Mr John Barbour also rendered Yeoman service in collecting addresses.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE FOR CELLARDYKE MINISTER. The Established Presbytery of St Andrews met in that city yesterday , the Rev William  Neil, Newburn, moderator- A request was submitted from the Rev James Ray, Cellardyke, desiring leave of absence for three months from 1st April to enable him to accept the chaplainship of a military hospital which had been offered him.  On the motion of the Rev. Levack the request was granted, and the Rev. J.W Anderson Anstruther, was appointed as moderator at Cellardyke during Mr Ray’s absence. It was stated that owing to the war the population of Cellardyke was half it had been.

1916

Montrose Minister’s Action for Stipend – The Second Division of the Court of session  last Thursday disposed of an appeal from the Sheriff Court at Cupar in an action by the Rev. A. Noble Scott, Union Place. Anstruther (formerly of Montrose), against John Dick, fisherman, Cellardyke, and  others, the managers of the Evangelical Union Church, Anstruther, for payment of £52 10s, being seven months’ salary due to the pursuer as minister of the church. Sheriff-Substitute Armour -Hannay, in his findings, stated that in April, 1906, the pursuer received a call from the congregation. The salary agreed upon was £90 per annum, with the free use of a manse, and a bonus of £10 if the funds of the church could afford it. The pursuer accepted the call, and gave up his charge at Rutherglen. Disputes arose, and in December, 1913. the pursuer received a letter from the managers of the church dispensing with his services as at January 31, 1914. His salary was paid monthly at the rate of £7 per month until June. 1913. and there was thus due to him the sum of £52 10s, which he sued for. The action was defended on a number of grounds. The Sheriff-Substitute decerned against the defenders as managers, and as such, representing the members of the church jointly and severally, for the sum sued for, with expenses. The defenders appealed to this Court, and contended that as they interpreted the Sheriff-Substitute’s interlocutor, it was a decerniture against them as individuals as well as in their representative capacity. The Court held that it was quite clear that the Sheriff-Substitute did not intend to subject the defenders in individual responsibility for payment of the sum sued for, apart from the question whether there were funds or not under their control, which they could make forthcoming to meet the pursuer’s demand, but in order to make the matter still more clear the Court varied the interlocutor to meet the defenders’ objection. The pursuer was found entitled to expenses.

1917

OPERETTA THE MAGIC RUBY WILL GIVEN IN ANSTRUTHER TOWN HALL,

By EMPLOYEES OF R. WATSON & CO. CELLARDYKE, AND OTHERS, ON FRIDAY and SATURDAY, 30th & 31st March, 1917.

CHARACTERS

Nelly O’Neal,                                     The General’s Adopted Daughter, Miss B. Woodward

Elsie                                                       Miss J. Keay

Violet                                                    Miss H . Stewart

Rose                                                      Miss M. Woodward

Dorothy                                               Miss S. Jack

Major-General Bangs, V.C.           Mr R. S. Keay

Patrick McGee, his Servant         Mr D.S Coleman

Harry Lisle, Clerk in the Government Office Mis E. McRuvie

The Raja of Rajahpore                   Mr J B. Boyter

Ah Sin, his Chinese Servant         Mr A. J. B. Gilmour

Electra, the Goddess of light      Miss I. McLeod

Raj the Rakshasha, a bold, bad spirit Miss  A. Watson

Conductress—Miss Rennie.

Synopsis Scenery-

Scene 1                 Outside the Rajah’s Palace

Scene 2                The Cave of Raj the Rakshasha

Scene 3                The Palace Gardens

Chorus of Populace—Imps of Darkness—Spirits of Light, etc.

Dresses and Wigs, &c. hired from the GLASGOW AND THEATRICAL FANCY COSTUME COY. Scenery and other Effects lent by the Manager, Gaiety Theatre, Methil

FRIDAY—Doors open, at 7.30; commence, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY (MATINEE only)—Doors open, at 2; commence, 230 p.m. -. prompt.

TICKETS, 2s 2d, 1s 2d, and 7d (Tax included). and Books of Words, 1d, to be had at various shops in Crail, Cellardyke, Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monance, and Elie, and from Members of the Chorus. Children half-price on Saturday, e.g.. 7d and 4d.

Seats at 2s. 2d may be reserved at the ” Record” office on payment of a small fee of 4d. No cash taken at door until 7.50 p.m., by which time all ticket-holders are requested to be in their seats. Ladies are specially requested to remove their hats.

1918

SCOTTISH SOLDIERS WIN MILITARY MEDAL FOR CONSPICUOUS BRAVERY IN THE FIELD. In a long list of Military Medal awards to non-commissioned officers and men published last night occur the names the following Scotsmen: 345749 L.-Cpl. (A. Cpl.) J. Black, Royal Highlanders (Dundee); 37928 Pte. A. W. Brown, M.G. Corps (Cellardyke): 9333 Sgt. R. Brown, Worcester Reg. (Tayport)……………………………………………….

1910

MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY AT THE COAST. Major Anstruther-Gray and Mrs Anstruther-Gray visited Anstruther and Cellardyke on Saturday forenoon. As this was the Major’s first visit to the fishermen since the election, he met with a hearty reception, particularly at Cellardyke, where men, women, and children turned out masse to welcome him. Major Anstruther- Gray and Mrs Anstruther-Gray, who seemed to appreciate the reception accorded them, spent a few hours conversing with the electors and their lady friends.

1911

On Tuesday afternoon, a rather serious accident occurred on the middle pier. Mr George Melville, Cellardyke, was standing near the edge of the pier, when one of the ropes attached to the paul slipped off the notch, and struck Mr Melville across the legs, knocking him over. In his fall his head came in violent contact with the causeway, rendering him unconscious. He was carried into the harbourmaster’s hut, and first aid rendered until the arrival of Dr Wilson. He gradually came round, and was conveyed home to Croma in a cab. He had further relapses into unconsciousness, but is now on the road to recovery.

Harbour Commission. The treasurer submitted a case in dispute between himself and Mr Martin Gardner, junior. On the 17th February. the latter came into the harbour. but refused to pay dues, the excuse given to the Treasurer being that he had no herrings. He also entered the harbour on the 21st February, but had never reported himself. Mr Bonthron said he understood that Martin had shot his nets, but, on account of bad weather. was forced to run for the harbour without having time to haul his nets. The Treasurer—If that is so, there is no charge. Provost Black—But you say his reason was that he had no herrings. Leave the matter to the Chairman and Mr Bonthron to make enquiry. This was agreed to.

AN EXTRA LAID-UP BIRTH. A letter was read from Alexander Smith, Cellardyke, in regard to the payment of the laid-up composition for his boat the Utility, M.L. 92. The boat has been laid up since the end of the drove. He offered the Treasurer the £4 composition rate, but he said he was not authorised to accept it. There was plenty of room, and the harbourmaster said his boat could lie up in one of the tiers of laid up boats. If the Commission did not accept the composition rate, he would be liable to £9, which he was quite unable to pay.

1912

Three Personal Estates.—Among the 61 inventories of personal estates lodged with the Sheriff Clerk at Cupar daring February, were the following :—Robert Williamson, plasterer, Cellardyke, £4165 2d ; David Brown, fisherman, Cellardyke £1486 2s 3d, and John Stewart, fisherman, Cellardyke, £1386 18s 2d.

OPENING ANNOUNCEMENT. Mrs WATSON begs to intimate to the inhabitants of Anstruther, Cellardyke, and district that she has added to her DRESSMAKING Business that of Millinery. The Millinery Department will be opened on SATURDAY First, showing a good selection of trimmed and untrimmed millinery, semi-trimmed hats, flowers, feathers, &c., also a good selection of children’s millinery at moderate prices. Mrs Watson begs to thank her customers for their patronage in the past, and hopes by strict attention to business to merit a share of public patronage. Note the Address 48 JAMES STREET, CELLARDYKE.

1913

Men’s Own.—The usual meeting of the Men’s Own on Sunday was open to ladies, There was a large attendance. Anthems were tunefully rendered by the male choir, while Mr Peter Smith, Cellardyke, gave a sermonette in verse.

HERRINGS FROM STRANRAER. —On Friday a special train arrived from Stranraer with herrings, for Messrs T. Melville & Sons, Cellardyke. The herrings, which were large and of fine quality, were cured in Messrs Melville’s yard.

FIFE FISHERMEN CLAIM SALVAGE REMUNERATION. The record was closed in Cupar Sheriff Court yesterday, and proof fixed for March 14, in two actions raised by James Hutt, fisherman, St Monans, and others against John Watson, fisherman, Cellardyke, for £430 salvage remuneration for services rendered to the steam drifter Pride Fife, and Robert Davidson, fisherman, Cellardyke, for £70 for salvage on the fishing boat Guide Me. Both boats were in distress in Eyemouth Bay on September 9, and were towed safely to harbour by the pursuers’ boat, the Lizzie Hutt.

1914

Is there Luck in Fishing? FISHERMAN SWEARS BY PERSEVERANCE. Insurance Act Test Case, (Special Edinburgh, Friday. Proof was continued before Lord Mackenzie in the Court of Session, Edinburgh, to-day in the test case to determine the position of share fishermen under the Insurance Act. Evidence was given men from Johnshaven and Cellardyke. Martin Gardiner, cross-examined by the Solicitor-General, did not believe in luck in fishing. Do you believe in the skill of the skipper? — I believe in perseverance and good gear— (laughter)—and also skill in knowing when shoot the nets.

BALINTORE—Superintendent of Tanks. — Mr A. Wood, fisherman, Hilton. has been appointed by Commander Munro. King’s Harbourmaster. Cromarty, superintendent of the naval water tanks at Invergordon. Mr Wood is a native of Cellardyke.

1885

AN OBSTREPEROUS FISHERMAN. –Before Bailies Darsie and Graham on Friday, Alexander Jack, fisherman, Cellardyke, pled guilty to having on Saturday night, the 21st ult. , committed a breach of the peace in Shore Street opposite the shop of Mr John Lister. The Fiscal pointed out that the offence was a serious one. Mr Lister had a son lying very unwell, and accused was asked by Mr Lister to go away home quietly. He paid little attention to it, but began to shout and make a great noise. In fact, so great was the noise he was making that the policemen had to interfere and convey him to the lock-up, when he was let out on bail next morning. Four convictions were recorded against Jack. After conferring together as to the sentence, Bailie Darsie. as the senior Magistrate, cautioned accused that if he appeared before the Magistrates again he would not get the option of a fine. The panel was sentenced to pay a fine of 21s, or to suffer twenty-one days’ imprisonment. Fine paid.

THEFT OF BARRELS FROM THE GOODS STATION. —John Foster, carter, East Anstruther, and George Lindsay, carter, Cellardyke, were charged at a Burgh Court on Tuesday—Chief-Magistrate Wilson and Bailie Gilmour on the bench—with having on Wednesday evening, the 25th ult., stolen from the goods station of the North British Railway Company at West Anstruther, seven or more barrels, valued at is 10d each, the property of Messrs Thomas Brown & Sons, fish merchants, Lowestoft. Both pled guilty, after it had been explained that although they had not sold the barrels, they had taken them away for that purpose. The Fiscal said the accused had done wisely in pleading guilty to that serious charge. He was credibly informed that a large number of barrels had gone amissing lately, and that there was a habit of obliterating the names from the barrels, so that they could be disposed of to other fish merchants and curers in the place. He thought that was a very bad practice, because those parties who bought these barrels were resetters of theft, and by purchasing them they held out a great inducement to panels like the accused to commit theft. The accused were under the impression that; because they did not sell the barrels it was not theft. They were observed to take away the barrels, and being watched were prevented from obliterating the names before they were sold. Chief-Magistrate Wilson–It is a painful thing to see young lads such as you standing in your present position. If you wish to grow rich never suppose that you will do so by taking what is not your own. You should endeavour to act to others as you would have them to do to you. There is no previous conviction against you, and we have resolved to give you the option of a fine on this occasion. We are thus to be very lenient with you, and hope that it may act as a stimulant upon you both to walk hereafter in the paths of rectitude. The sentence is that you be fined in the small sum of 15s each, or failing payment you will be imprisoned for 20 days. Now I hope this will be a warning to you in future. The fines were both paid.

OPENING INTIMATION. JAMES FORTUNE begs most respectfully to intimate to the Inhabitants of CIELLARDYKE and District that he has acquired the Drapery Business so successfully carried on by Messrs ROBt. WATSON & CO.. Cellardyke; and having purchased the entire Stock at a very liberal valuation, purposes, previous to making new Purchases, to offer the same at such prices as are likely to command a ready clearance. He would take this opportunity of stating that it is his intention to conduct his business on the same sound cash principles as those adopted by his predecessors, and that he will endeavour to give the same uniform value as has always been offered at this Establishment. He will open on his own account on SATURDAY first, the 7th inst., when he hopes to have the Stock arranged ready for sale, and would commend to the general public the announcement he makes by separate bill. GEORGE STREET, CELLARDYKE.

ROBT. WATSON & CO., MERCHANTS, CELLARDYKE, hereby intimate that they have disposed of the Drapery Branch of their Business to Mr JAMES FORTUNE, under whose management it has been for some years, and in doing so they would take this opportunity of thanking those numerous friends who so liberally patronised them in this Department. They would most respectfully request on behalf of Mr Fortune a continuance of the same liberal patronage so kindly granted them for the past eleven years.

1886

WRECK OF A NORWEGIAN VESSEL –

About 4 o’clock on Wednesday morning, during the heavy gale, a Norwegian vessel, named the “Charm,” of Christiana, went ashore to the east of Caiplie Coves, between Crail and Cellardyke. The vessel was bound from Middlesborough to Warborg, on the west coast of Sweden, and had a freight of pig-iron, coke, and coal. Leaving Middlesborough on the 7th of February, the vessel encountered very heavy weather after the 21st, and when coming into the Firth of Forth the May Light was mistaken for St Abb’s Head. The gale seemed to increase in severity, and shortly before four o’clock the vessel struck a rock, but immediately seemed to have cleared it and went on. The crew, which consisted of 7 men and a boy, at once summoned the captain, and he came up out of the cabin followed by the boy. The captain got forward all safe, but as the boy stepped out on to the deck a huge wave swept across the vessel, washing him overboard. It was too dark and the sea too tempestuous to make any attempt to save him. Immediately afterwards the vessel struck, and began to roll about. The crew, seeing the danger they were in, got their trunks with all their clothing turned out, and as they were very near to the land, they succeeded in safely landing them. Observing a light in the distance, the seven men set out for it, and had considerable difficulty in climbing over the accumulations of snow. Ultimately, they reached Barnsmuir, where they ware kindly treated. The news of the wreck soon spread both in Cellardyke and Crail, and large crowds of people flocked to the scene. The vessel has become a total wreck, and the cargo all dispersed. In the afternoon, a dead body was observed floating outside of Cellardyke harbour, but as it was impossible to get near it, no effort was made to bring it to land. Ultimately the tide floated it to the mouth of the harbour, when it was brought ashore and taken to Cellardyke Town Hall. It turned out to be the body of the lad drowned in the morning at Barnsmuir Sands out of the Charm. There were a good many cuts and bruises about the back of the head and brow. The lad’s name was Lorntz Larsen, 16 years of age, son of Lorntz Andersen, stonemason, Christiana. The body was taken charge of by Mr George Dickson, Inspector of Poor, and was interred yesterday afternoon in Kilrenny churchyard, the Rev. Mr Ray conducted a short service before the corpse was lifted in the Town Hall. There was a pretty large attendance at the funeral. The vessel was 150 tons burthen, and it is said that both vessel and cargo are insured.

FOR SALE by Private Bargain, the Deep Sea FISHING BOAT “MIZPAH,” of Cellardyke, KY. 2023. Length, 51 feet ; 3 1/2years old ; with all her Appurtenances, ready for Sea For further particulars apply to JAMES CUNNINGHAM (Rodger), Cellardyke.

1887

Miss Fowler, Edinburgh, with her accustomed generosity to the poor of Cellardyke, where she resided for so long, has recently distributed a large quantity of coals to a number of deserving poor there.  

(1 week later  CORRECTION.—It shouId have been mentioned that G. Fowler, Esq., Adelaide, was the donor of the coals to poor in Cellardyke, instead of Miss Fowler, Edinburgh, as stated in last week’s Record)

Petition For Cessio.—Tuesday’s Edinburgh Gazette contained the following :—James Ogilvie, clothier, sometime in Dunfermline and Cellardyke, now in Edinburgh—to be examined in the Sheriff Court-house, Edinburgh, 21st March, at two o’clock.

NOTICE. A FEW INDIVIDUALS IN CELLARDYKE accuse a certain Skipper of keeping another’s Cod Money. I hare the Mosey in my possession. If any more is said about this matter by way of accusation, after this notice, proceedings will be taken against the offending parties. JAMES DICK.

1888

EXPOSURE OF FISHING CRAFT.—The well known deep sea fishing craft “Jessies” of Cellardyke, owned by the late Skipper James Brunton, was exposed for sale at Anstruther jetty on Saturday afternoon. She was built about two years ago, and is fitted out so thoroughly with sails, anchors, &c., as to be quite the model of a North Sea fishing yacht, at a cost of £400. The upset price was £280, but the cloud to-day on the industries of the sea was surely never so striking as in the fact that there was no purchaser, though it is understood more than one young skipper has a longing eye to her acquisition. Curiosity, if nothing more, drew a large crowd to the spot.

1889

EDEN RANGERS V. BLUE JACKETS (CELLARDYKE). — A gallant encounter took place on Saturday at Strathkinnes between the Eden Rangers and the Blue Jackets of Cellardyke. It began by the Blues, who won the toss, deciding for the lee goal. This was by and bye in danger, till by sheer pluck they scored the first point. Nothing daunted, however, the Rangers renewed the contest, but despite the adroit play of Secretary Seth, half-time was called with 3 to 0 for the Blues. In the next stage the Rangers were resolved not to be beaten on their own ground, but they were no match for the heroes of the coast, who left the field amid ringing cheers with 5 to 0.

Cellardyke Fisherman Drowned off Aberdeen Thomas Tarvett, a fisherman, forming one of the crew of the line fishing boat Mountaineer, 11 A, fishing from Torry, Aberdeen, was drowned at sea on Saturday morning. Tarvett was assisting to haul the sail, when he lost his balance, and fell overboard. An oar was at once flung to him, but he was unable to catch it. and sank almost immediately. The crew rowed about the place for over an hour in hopes of saving the unfortunate man or recovering the body, but after Tarvett sank he never came to the surface again. Deceased, who was a native of Cellardyke, was 25 years of age. and leaves a widow and one child residing at 5 Bank Street, Torry.

CELLARDYKE SKIPPER DROWNED IN THE FORTH. Skipper George Corstorphine, of the boat Anapira, of Cellardyke, was drowned in the Forth about four o’clock yesterday morning. The crew had pulled the nets about three miles in the offing of Pittenweem, and the boat was heading to Anstruther, with the skipper at the helm. Two of the crew who had been below returned to the deck to find to their dismay that the skipper had disappeared. It was pitch dark at the time. It supposed that the skipper in consequence of the hoar frost and had fallen overboard. The boat returned to Anstruther about daylight. Skipper Corstorphine, who was much respected by all who knew him, was about 52 years of age. He was a widower, with four sons and a daughter

On Monday morning eight Cellardyke fishermen left Anstruther by train for Glasgow to be employed as seamen on board the steamers of the Anchor Line. The previous week five Cellardyke, and one St Monance fishermen, left for a similar occupation. The whole of the men have been employed, and are in receipt of a good wage, much better than they have been earning at home for some time. Every one of those who have been employed were recommended by the agent of the Anchor Line at Anstruther.