Author: cellaradmin

1905

At a meeting of Cellardyke Town Council, out of an application list of fully 30, Mr Bowie, a retired soldier, Cowdenbeath, was appointed to the vacant post of town officer. He will take up duties immediately.

The new pipe organ which has been obtained for Cellardyke Parish Church has now been put in the building, and will be used for the first, time on Sunday first. The organ is an exceedingly handsome instrument, and cost fully £600. The half of the total cost to borne by Mr Andrew Carnegie.

Yarmouth

Cellardyke boat, the Lilias Scott, has had the honour of being top marker on one day with the fine catch of 120 cran

Hero Rewarded. –Yesterday evening, a Town Council meeting (Montrose), Provost Melvin presented Mr David Coull Nicol, Ferryden, with a Royal Humane Society’s certificate for having on 23^rd Sept., at Scarborough, rescued a Cellardyke fisherman, David Stevenson, who fell into the sea, but who unfortunately died some time afterwards. Mr Nicol. being Glasgow, was represented by his father, who replied for his son.

THE COLLIESTON DISASTER. IMPRESSIVE FUNERAL AT TORRY. There was an impressive scene at Torry on Saturday afternoon when the funeral of John Burgoyne, aged about 30 years, fishery officer, under the Fishery Board of Scotland, at the Bay of Nigg Fish Hatchery, and of the brothers Andrew and William. Henderson, aged about 20 and 16 years respectively, sons of Mr and Mrs John Henderson, Menzies Road, Torry, took place. The greatest sympathy has been manifested in the community with Mr and Mrs Henderson in the loss of their two sons, who perished as the result of the wreck of the trawler Star of Hope, on the rocks at Collieston early on Tuesday morning, as also with Mrs Burgoyne, who has been left with a sixteen months-old son, and the attendance the seafaring class at the funeral was very large, a company of between 500 and 600 following the two hearses. (Andrew and William Henderson were sons of John Henderson, a Dyker who had moved to Aberdeen to work on the steam trawlers. John was brother to Andrew and Leslie Henderson.)

1906

Mr James Miller, Shipbuilder, Anstruther, launched on Saturday a steam drifter to the order of Messrs Gardner, Cellardyke. The vessel was named the Maggies by the daughter of Skipper Philip Gardner, is 85ft in length, 18ft 6in in breadth and 8ft 6in in depth. The engines are to be fitted by Messrs John Cran and Co Leith. This is the second drifter Mr Miller has launched since September, and as showing the demand there is among fishermen for steam craft, he has orders on hand for another five of the same dimensions, at a cost of £2500 each.  The launch was success fully accomplished a little after two o’clock, and the vessel was afterwards moored in the inner harbour. The Maggies is of the same dimensions as the St Ayles . For Anstruther alone about a dozen new steam drifters are building or on order. The order for a drifter given by Mr Robert Melville, Cellardyke, has now been begun.

PORTGORDON— LAUNCH. —On Tuesday Mr W. Geddes launched a new drifter, named the Morning Star, for Mr David Watson & Sons, Cellardyke. There was a large crowd at the launch, and the sea was heavy. The launch was, however, successfully accomplished, the christening ceremony being gracefully performed by Miss Watson, daughter of the skipper. She was presented with a gold watch by the builder. The vessel is 85 ft. keel, 18 ft. 6 in. beam, and 9 ft. beam, and she will be engined in Aberdeen.

CELLARDYKE. RETURN OF FISHWORKERS. —Yesterday morning the last batch of the fishworkers who have been employed at Yarmouth and Lowestoft came home. They have had but a poor season, as the great demand for fresh herring have dispensed with the need of their services to a great extent.

1907

Kilrenny Town Council. -—Being a fishing community, the election Town Councillors for Kilrenny takes place in December. On Friday night nomination meeting was held under the chairmanship Provost Black. The following were nominated for the three vacancies: —George Black, baker; Robert Forsyth, teacher; James Fortune, draper; and Alex. Smith, jun., carter. The Provost indicated work done the Council during the past year in the better lighting of the town and the improvement in the sanitary conditions. He declined make any remarks on the water question except that the Council were prepared to defend their existing rights at Lochty to the very end. Questioned about the harbour at Cellardyke, the Provost said that if the fishermen gave the Council a guarantee that they would use the harbour even as a storage for their boats during the laying-up season and paid £2 each they would have booms put on the harbour mouth, but until they got revenue, they could not pay back any the loans they got from the fishermen and others. Two fishermen were appointed to wait on the fishermen and try and get twenty lay up their boats and pay for the season each, and report the Council.

Portgordon Launch– On Tuesday at 2.30 Mr Geddes set afloat successfully another drifter of similar dimensions, and also a counterpart of the former vessel in painting and decoration—black with brown underbody relieved by gold lines. This drifter, named the Ivy, is owned by Messrs James Smith, Wm. Gardner, and Thomas Murray, fishermen, Cellardyke. The christening ceremony was performed, before a goodly company, by Miss M. Smith, Cellardyke, who was made the recipient by the builder of a gold watch. The Ivy was taken to Portgordon harbour to await towing to Aberdeen, where she will have her engines installed by Messrs Clyne, Mitchell & Co. (Actually named Heidra which means Ivy  KY 276)

Yesterday afternoon the two new drifters Laurel Bank and Ivy left for Dundee and Aberdeen in tow of the drifters Gowan and Daisy. They are away to be engined. Only half a mile separated both the pairs of vessels at sea.

Portgordon Fishing Boat Owner Sued –  Yesterday at Edinburgh Lord Salvesen closed the record and ordered proof in two actions by Peter Lindoe, Haugesund, Norway, owner of the screw steamer Adria, against W. Geddes, 13 East High Street, Portgordon, of the boat Strathlene, and W. Reid, Cellardyke, owner of the boat Elsie Reid. Each defender is sued for £65. The pursuer’s vessel was leaving Peterhead Harbour at 2 p.m. on 26^th June last when despite whistling she was run into by defenders’ boats and sustained damage on the port bow. The defenders deny that the Adria’s whistle was blown, and say that no notice was given to them, by signal or otherwise, that the harbour entrance was blocked. Owing to the configuration of the harbour of Peterhead, it is impossible for anyone approaching from the eastward to see the entrance till they are close to it, and the entrance is very narrow. The fault, it is therefore maintained, was on the part of those in charge of the Adria.

1908

Anstruther Town Council …There was the steam drifter question, and in Anstruther that class of boat was getting supplied with water and were wasting it, while the inhabitants here had not enough to drink. There should be some regulation about the drifters getting water. He understood that most of them did not belong to the place at all. Mr Garvie asked if he understood Mr Birrell to mean that as the great bulk of the fishermen belonged to Cellardyke and paid no rates to the Joint Water area, he was in favour of Anstruther Harbour being supplied from Cellardyke. Mr Birrell said he meant that they should not get water when the people were needing it. He fully supported Provost Porter’s contention on that point. Mr T. P. J. Nicolson did not think that Pittenweem had any right to supply Anstruther Harbour at all, and considered that the Cellardyke people should get their water from Kilrenny. The Joint Water Committee should take into serious consideration the necessity of cutting off the supply from the harbour altogether.

1900

Ex Pupil Teacher (Female) wanted for Cellardyke Public School, Salary £40, Applications stating qualification with testimonials, to be lodged on or before 6^th December with Provost Thomson, Cellardyke, Chairman of Kilrenny School board

THE HARBOUR IMPROVEMENT FUND CONCERTS. The first of a series of entertainments for Cellardyke Harbour Fund was held in the Town Hall, Cellardyke, last Friday, when a most enjoyable evening was spent. The Hall was crowded to its utmost, and Mr Robert Melville, occupied the chair. A first-rate programme was gone through. Solos were sung by Misses Hepburn and Rennie, and by Messrs Harris and Wood— Miss Mary Melville being the accompanist. The comic songs sung by Mr Harris took exceptionally well, and he had on both occasions to respond to encores. Mr Alex. Watson also contributed two violin solos in his usual efficient manner. A humorous reading was given by Mr James Fortune, and the two recitations by Mr Peter Smith, was listened to with great interest. Encores were demanded from all the performers, and a most successful and enjoyable entertainment was brought to a close by the singing of the National Anthem. Judging from the enthusiasm displayed by the audience and from the large numbers present, it augurs well for the future meetings of this class, which are to be held every Friday evening through the winter.

BOATBUILDING Pittenweem. —The remaining bauldie which Mr Fulton had on hand has just been disposed of to a Fisherrow owner. This one, along with the one sold the previous week, were both launched on Tuesday this week. From the same yard there is to be launched in the end of the present week, two large deep-sea boats built to the order of Skipper Alex. Hughes (Irvine), Abbey Road, and Skipper John Watson (Salter). Cellardyke, respectively.

1901

BRAVE FIFE FISHERMAN. HANDSOME REWARD FOR HEROIC CONDUCT. To-day at Yarmouth the Mayor announced the Police Court that h« had received a vellum certificate of the Royal Humane Society and silver hunter watch specially subscribed for presentation James Patterson Wallace of Cellardyke, and belonging the Kirkcaldy fishing boat Morning Star, who a short time since plunged into the harbour, though wearing heavy sea clothing, and saved a boy who drowning. Wallace was not present, and Mr Former, salesman, said the boat sailed Sunday. The Mayor directed the awards be forwarded to the Provost at Anstruther for public presentation to Mr Wallace.

BOATBUILDING ORDERS (Millers Anstruther yard)—The new boat on the stocks at the shipbuilding yard is to be launched by Mr Miller next week.  (This was sold to Skipper Pratt, Cellardyke) Another two orders for large boats 68feet in length, have been secured by Mr Miller, one for Skipper David Brown, Cellardyke, and the other for Shetland, the latter to be smack rigged, for which class there is a strong demand in Shetland. The carpenters are thus assured of full employment for some time to come.

1902

The Gale – From 12 until 3 o’clock it made a clean sweep over every pier in our neighbourhood, as if nothing lay in its way, and the noise which it made among the rocks of our iron-bound shore was frightful. We hear that a part of the pier of has been damaged. Three fishing boats belonging to Cellardyke, which were lying at Craignoon, were dashed to pieces. They were the properties of David Watson, John Pratt, and Alexander Scott. John Carstairs lost two large sails, about 90 yards in each of them. A great many masts, oars, and others articles belonging the fishermen have also been swept away, and about 90 yards of the new bulwarks of Cellardyke harbour greatly damaged.

1903

Mission Yacht Albatross – UNITED SPECIAL MISSION, CONDUCTED BY W. F. STEWART And CREW of the “ALBATROSS,” In Cellardyke Town Hall, ON SABBATH. 6th Dec. at 7.45, Week Nights at 7.30. All welcome, Yacht Hymns

LAUNCHES ON THE TYNE. There was launched from the Shipbuilding Yard of Smith’s Dock Company, Limited, North Shields, on Thursday, three finely modelled steel steam herring drifters the following dimensions: 82ft. by 18it. 3 inches. by 9ft. 1in. They have been built under Lloyd’s special survey to obtain the highest-class A.1., will with compound engines 12in., and 10in, stroke, supplied by W. V, V. Lidgerwood, of Coatbridge, fitted by the Shields Engineering Company, Limited, of North Shields. They have been built specially for the Scotch herring fishing and will be equipped with all the latest improvements for such vessels. The names the vessels are the Emily Reaich, Nina, and Vanguard III. The first two are built to the order of Provost W. H. Leask, Peterhead, and the latter, which was christened by Miss Hastie, of North Shields, to the order of Messrs Martin Gardner & Sons, of Cellardyke.

1904

CELLARDYKE. Town and Parish Councils. — A nomination meeting for the Town and Parish Councils of Kilrenny took place in the Town Hall, Cellardyke, on Tuesday evening. The retiring members of the Parish Council were all re-elected with the exception of Provost Black, who refused to stand, and are—Messrs Ray, Leslie, Barbour, J. Downey, and Gardiner. The three vacancies in the Town Council were filled up by the retiring members, who are—Messrs G. M. Black, J. Clark, and W. Dewar.

CELLARDYKE. A Burgh Court also took place last Friday in Cellardyke, the presiding Magistrate being Provost Black and Bailie Butters. The cases before them were all relating to carters leaving their carts standing on the public streets longer than was necessary for the loading or unloading of goods. The persons charged were Messrs J. Hodge, A. Blyth, R. Christie, G. Pattie, but a certificate was road from Dr Wilson stating that Blyth was unable to attend Court through illness

ACTION AGAINST KILRENNY TOWN COUNCIL THE, CELLARDYKE HARBOUR EXTENSION. In Cupar Sheriff Court last Thursday, Sheriff Armour closed the record, and ordered parties to be heard on 8th December, in an action raised against Kilrenny Town Council, being the authority for Cellardyke harbour, by Messrs Adam Co., contractors, Glasgow, for the balance due on their account ender the contract for work at the harbour amounting to £116 5s 9d, the sum of £13 for lighting the harbour, and £217 12s of additional claims. The pursuers state what their offer for the work was made on 7th April 1902, and in terms of the specification it was to be completed within six months. In making their offer the pursuers anticipated that they would be allowed to proceed with the work at once, and would thus have had the advantage of the summer months and the possibility of fair weather. The engineer on 16th April 1902 intimated that their offer had been accepted, and they continually asked that they should be allowed to proceed with the work, but they did not receive a formal acceptance until 9th June, and were not allowed to start till 30th June 1902. The work was net completed till 31st December 1903, but about a month was spent in executing work not in the original contract. Had they been allowed to start within a reasonable time of their making their offer they would in all probability have been able to complete the work within the time stipulated. Owing, however, to a delay of more than three mouths, they lest the best part of the summer, and were thrown into the winter, during which they had to contend with unusually bad weather. The Council admit that the offer by the pursuers was made on the date specified, and that they were told that the Council on April 14th 1902, had unanimously resolved to accept it. But they were also told that the offer could only be accepted subject to the consent of the Fishery Board being obtained, which was not got till June 6th, and a formal acceptance by the engineer was sent them on 9th June, when they were requested to proceed at once with the works. The pursuers did not ask that the period of six months stipulated in the contract should be extended, and the contract was entered into and accepted on the footing that the harbour works would be executed within the time named. The contract contained no weather clause, and the pursuers undertook all risk of delay arising through unfavourable weather or otherwise. They took the whole of the year 1903, in addition to the six months of 1902, to complete the work. The pursuers say that when signing the contract, they pointed out to Messrs Jamieson & Guthrie, that owing to delay in starting the job, it would be impossible to complete it to time, and these gentlemen assured them that the time clause would not be insisted on. During the progress of the work the engineer made several alterations in the original plans. These necessitated considerable additional work, and the carrying out of certain portions under entirely altered conditions in a manner not expected by either of the parties when the contract was entered upon. Some of these alterations were made after the expiry of the six months within which the contract ought to have been completed. The defenders admit the alterations, but say they are usual in the execution of harbour works or undertakings of the like nature. By the conditions of the contract, they, or their engineer, were to have full power to make such alterations on the form, dimensions, and arrangement of the works as they might see fit during their progress, and that such should in no way invalidate the contract, but should be deemed a part thereof.

1915

CELLARDYKE. School Board

A meeting of this body took place last night, Provost. Black presiding. The Rev. Jas. Ray, Messrs Swinton and Thomson were also present. The officer reported a percentage of attendance of 89 for Cellardyke and 92 for Kilrenny Schools. A letter was read from Miss McLaughlan, resigning her position as assistant in Kilrenny School. The Chairman said they should leave it over for a time, as the whole question of the staff might have to be considered if Mr Smith left. to join the Forces. Mr Smith had called on him, stating that he was quite willing to go. Should that take place his idea that Kilrenny School should be closed and Mr Forsyth brought down. The Rev. Mr Hay was afraid that such an arrangement might get them into trouble with the Department. They could not say they were unable to make any other arrangement. The Chairman—We can say that it is the easiest way for us. It was agreed to delay filling up the vacancy. The Clerk (Mr H. H. Soutar,) read a letter from the Department agreeing to allow the grant for the Continuation Class in English, which had been discontinued owing to the small attendance. The Scottish Band of Hope Union wrote asking permission to give lectures on temperance to the scholars, and inviting the members of the Board to the lectures. Mr Ray—You would think there was some need for us to attend. (Laughter.) The Chairman—Mr Smith could give a temperance lecture himself, or Mr Soutar even. (Laughter.) It was agreed to refuse permission. It was agreed to allow Mr Forsyth permission to start a soup kitchen in December, and instructed him to have the swing in the playground removed as it was in a defective condition. The Board’s bank book stood creditor £21 9s 9d.

KILRENNY. Mr James Cairns son of the Laird, leaves tomorrow to take up military duty with the Army Service Corps, in which he has obtained a commission.

Mr Herbert Russell has been appointed official recruiter by the Admiralty for East and West Anstruther and Cellardyke.

Sudden Death.—Mrs Wm. Anderson, a widow, died with tragic suddenness early on Saturday morning at her residence in Caiman’s Wynd (Pittenweem). On Friday evening she was engaged in baiting a line, when she complained of not feeling well, and the medical aid of Dr Wilson, Anstruther was summoned. The deceased, who was 6o years of age, was a native of Cellardyke, and was respected by all with whom she came in contact. She leaves a grown-up family of four daughters.

Private Robert Dunsire of the machine gun section of the 13^th Royal Scots is awarded the VC Although he belonged to Denbeath the newspapers report his Cellardyke connections as his wife Kate Pitt was daughter of  Dyker John Pitt who had a general merchant’s shop in Denbeath.  

Mr Thos. Gilmour. son of Mrs Gilmour, West Forth Street, Cellardyke, has been granted a commission as 1st Lieutenant, R.N.R.

Soldier Dies at Home. Private John Doig, late of the 1/7th Black Watch, and son of Mr Thos. Doig, Rodger Street, died on Saturday in his father’s house. The deceased was with the local Company of the Black Watch at Kinghorn, and while in training there developed unexpected weaknesses. To his regret, he was unable to accompany the rest of his comrades to France, and received his discharge on account of ill health not long after their departure for the front. He was buried in Kilrenny Churchyard on Tuesday, the obsequies being attended by Captain C. H. Maxwell and Privates Boyter and Elliot of the 1/7th Black Watch, Private Carstairs, Gordon Highlanders, and T. Tarvit, RN., The soldiers and sailor carrying the coffin from the hearse to the graveside.

Natives Death in Aberdeen. — Information arrived here on Monday night of the death of Mr James Watson, son of the late Mr Thos. Watson (Martin), at his residence in Aberdeen, The deceased, who was a native of Cellardyke, left this district a good few years ago, and carried on his calling as skipper of a trawler from Aberdeen, but to many fishermen from the East Neuk his death will come as a personal loss. He was familiarly known as “Hawley,” and his home in Aberdeen welcomed many of the fishermen from Cellardyke while they prosecuted the North fishing. Before he left this district he was identified with the social life of the town, and took a keen interest in Y.M.C.A. and Christian Endeavour, and he was also a member of the Baptist Church. He is survived by a widow and grown-up family, for whom much sympathy is being expressed. The funeral took place this afternoon to Kilrenny Churchyard from the Baptist hall, where the remains had rested for the night.

1916

Leven  -An application from Martin & Co., oilskin manufacturers, Cellardyke, for permission to lay the electric cable under the road to their new factory at Glenlyon Road received the assent of the Council.

Sphagnum Moss. – It is satisfactory to learn that since the picking of Sphagnum moss was commenced at Cellardyke there has been a larger turn-out of workers, and that 341 bags of picked moss have been despatched from there. The Treasurer (Mr C. Gardner) has just received acknowledgment for the last consignment, which the headquarters say was very well picked. It is also stated that during the last four months over 160,000 dressings have been supplied in response to War Office requisitions. The Committee further express a hope that the various workers will continue their help throughout the coming winter, and if possible, increase their numbers, in order to cope with the ever-increasing demands from War Hospitals. A large stock of Sphagnum moss has been laid in for the winter’s work, sufficient for a largely augmented staff of workers.

CELLARDYKE

Canadian Falls. Another promising young man connected with Cellardyke has fallen. On Saturday, intimation was received that Gunner John Bayne Brown, of the Machine Gun Section of the Canadian Royal Field Artillery, was killed in action on the 9th of October. He is the second son of Mr Thos. Brown, builder, Alberta, Canada, late of Cellardyke. Prior to the war, Gunner Brown was engaged as a joiner in Canada. He was 33 years of age, and had been over a year in France.

Another Cellardyke Casualty. —Official confirmation has now been received as to the death of Private Alex. Boyter, of the Black Watch, letters having now come to hand from Adjutant Glen and Lieut. Philip 0. Ray, stating that he had died on 19th October from wounds sustained in action in a bomb raid, and expressive of sympathy with the family in their bereavement. Private Boyter, who was 22 years of age, was the third son of Mrs Boyter, Rodger Street., and it is about two years since he enlisted in the Black Watch. Prior to that he was a plasterer with Mr Williamson. His father was a fisherman, and was drowned at sea about 16 years ago.

LOCAL MILITARY TRIBUNALS.

Further meetings of local Tribunals were held in Cellardyke, East-Anstrutber, and Crail on Monday afternoon and evening, the Military representative at each being Major Sibley.

CELLARDYKE. The meeting at, Cellardyke was held in the Council Room, the members of the Tribunal present being–Provost Black (presiding), Councillors Laverock and Bett, and Mr D. Bruce.

The first case called was that of John Bett, fisherman, Fowler Street, and the military assenting, conditional exemption was granted.

James Watson (25), fisherman, John Street, claimed exemption on the ground of ill-health, it being stated that while at work at the Forth Bridge he overstrained his heart. Major Sibley stated that he would have to undergo medical examination. The appeal was continued to see if arrangement. could be made for a medical examination.

John A. Scott (32), grocer, George Street, appealed for conditional exemption, it being stated that he was engaged in a certified occupation, and that he was rejected under the Derby scheme. This was not assented to by the military.

In answer to Major Sibley, appellant stated that his father was going back and forward attending to the business, but that he was not able to give it. constant supervision. He had two girls, but both were at school.

The Provost—It is not easy getting girls just now.

Major Sibley—They can be got somewhere; and it is not a certified occupation now.

Conditional exemption was claimed for Andrew Donaldson (36), baker, Burnside Terrace, it being stated that he was suffering from cardiac, a certificate being given by a doctor. He was in the employment of his brother, James Donaldson, baker, who also claimed exemption for him on the ground that he could not continue to carry on his business without his brother’s assistance.

Mr D. Cook, solicitor, stated that this was a double application, and he considered that it was a strong enough case for conditional exemption. One of the old established bakery businesses in Cellardyke had already been closed for want of hands, and it would come to be very hard on the community if this one were also to be closed.

Major Sibley—ln some populations there is more over-lapping than there should be. There are a tremendous number of bakers in Fife, more in proportion to the population than there is elsewhere. Mr Laverock said that conditional exemptions had been granted in cases that were not more deserving of it than this, and that this should be treated as others.

Major Sibley—Baking is an essential business for women. When they can make bread at home and do similar work at munitions, there is no reason why they should not do it at bakeries.

Conditional exemption was granted. At this point Provost Black vacated the chair, which was taken by Councillor Laverock, and claimed conditional exemption for William Tarvit Bowman, who was a foreman in the oil skin manufactory of A. Black & Co He stated that it was a certified occupation, and that it was impossible to get men to do the work that was required. Bowman already had three sons with the colours, and offering himself under the Derby Scheme he was then rejected. If every family in the country had given the same in proportion, it would have been different with the Army to-day. Owing to the want of hands, contracts bad been greatly delayed. Major Sibley said that military doctors were passing men that would not have been passed twelve months ago. It could not be said that men who had been rejected before were now absolutely unfit. Exemption was granted for three months.

BIG PRICE FOR A FIFE DRIFTER.

The steam drifter Innergellie (KY. 609), which belonged to Mr James Muir, Cellardyke has purchased Mr Alex. Smith, Portessie, Moray Firth, for the sum of £2190. She is 90 feet in length, of 100 gross tonnage, and it is about 20 years since she was built.

1910

GOLDEN WEDDING. Watson—Moncrieff. —At 38 George Street, Cellardyke, on 18th November, 1850 ( should this be 1860?), by the Rev. Alex. Gregory, Anstruther, William Watson, fisherman, to Lucy Moncrieff, daughter of Robert Moncrieff, fisherman, Cellardyke. Present Address, 5 Shore Street, Cellardyke.

MR DUNCAN MILLAR’S TRAWLLNG BILL. Mr Duncan Millar’s Illegal Trawling Bill is (says a London correspondent) evidently receiving a great deal of support in the fishing towns on the East Coast. He has just presented a petition in its favour from fishermen in St Andrews, Crail, and Cellardyke, and I believe that petitions to the same effect are coming from Arbroath, Johnshaven, Ferryden. and Gourdon. There is, therefore, no doubt that this measure has the general support of the fisher population.

1911

A letter was read from the Local Government Board stating that in a report from the General Superintendent of the Poor on a recent visit to Cellardyke, it was stated that the books were properly posted and the clerical work of the Inspector’s office well done. This was considered very satisfactory. After passing several accounts the Council adjourned.

WANTED, THREE MACHINISTS. Apply JOHN MARTIN & CO.. Cellardyke.

DAIRY STOCK &c., FOR SALE. There will be sold by Public Roup at the DAIRY, TOLBOOTH ROAD, CELLARDYKE, on FRIDAY, 24th November, the whole Stock, Implements etc., belonging to the Estate of MR ALEXANDER MCFADYBAN, Cellardyke, consisting of:—16 Cows, (some newly calved and mostly in full milk), 1Horse, 2 Pigs, 1Milk cart, 1 Cart, Harness, and usual Dairy and Stable Utensils. Roup to commence at 2 O’clock, afternoon. Fifeshire Auction Co., Ltd., Ladybank, Auctioneers. Rodger Street, Anstruther, 16th November, 1911,

1912

CELLARDYKE FIREMAN’S BODY FOUND AT YARMOUTH. Intelligence was received in Anstruther yesterday that the body John Watson, Cellardyke, fireman on the Cellardyke steam drifter Guerdon, who went amissing about three weeks ago, had been found in the river.

Although an inquest was held at the Mariner’s Refuge, Gorleston, upon the body of John Watson, aged 27, fireman on the Kirkcaldy steam drifter Guerdon, which was recovered from Yarmouth Harbour after he had been for three weeks, no real light has been shed upon his fate. He had lived with his mother, a widow, Cellardyke, and, according to the skipper of the Guerdon, Adam Reid, he left his vessel on the night of October 18 to on shore for the evening, and never returned to her. Adam Reid, son of the skipper said he met deceased in King Street, Yarmouth at 10.15 p.m.. more than an hour after he had left the Guerdon, and he was not the worse for drink, but the night was dark and thick with rain, and as the Guerdon was the fourth boat off the quay, Watson might make a slip getting on board. No cry was heard during the night, and deceased never came board again. On his body being searched by policeman, he stated he found nothing in his pockets. The Coroner said there was no evidence to show how or where deceased got into the river, but was most probable he stumbled and fell when getting to his boat from the quay. An open verdict of “Found drowned ” was recorded.

CLAIM FOR SALVAGE SETTLED.

In the Yarmouth Court on Saturday, it was announced that the action which should have been heard by Judge Wilmot, in which the skipper and crew of the Cellardyke boat, Unity, (Skipper D. Corstorphine) claimed for salvage services rendered on October 10th, in the North Sea, to the drifter Scots Greys, had been privately settled! The terms of settlement have not transpired, but it is stated the sum is substantial. ( Scots Greys KY 52 was another Cellardyke Boat owned by the Betts of Fowler Street, the boat was lost)

1913

Death Notice

Sutherland- At 2 Carmelite Street, Aberdeen, the 16th inst . James Sutherland, trawl fisherman, late Cellardyke, aged years—deeply regretted. Funeral Wednesday the 19th inst., at 2-30 p.m. St Peter’s Cemetery. All friends please accept this (the only) intimation and invitation.

CELLARDYKE. SCHOOL SOCIAL and DANCE—On Friday evening, the annual social and dance promoted by the Headmaster and staff of Cellardyke school was held. There a very large company present, the largest since the inception of the social. The room were magnificently decorated and gave ample tribute to the artistic energies of the staff. Prior to the commencement of a varied and excellent concert, Mr Barbour welcomed those present and hoped they would all have an enjoyable evening. The programme consisted of a piano duet by Misses Calder and Pattullo; song, ‘Promise Me’ by Miss Travis; recitation, ‘Soliloquy of a chicken’ by Miss Cattanach; Sword dance by Mr J. D. Lawson; song ‘Hush-a-by Birdy,’ by Miss McMeekin; Sketch by Mr and Mrs Maxwell; song ‘Because’ by Mr James Wood; violin solo by Mr Fred Higgins; duet, ‘The Elfin Call’ Misses Rennie and Travis. Dancing was afterwards engaged in Mr Macfarlane discharging the duties of M. C. in a very efficient and energetic manner. The dance music was played by Mrs McPherson, Dundee, while the purveying was daintily attended to by Messrs D. Black & Son, Cellardyke. From beginning to end, the function most successfully and enjoyable.

CELLARDYKE FISHERMAN DROWNED While on Passage from Yarmouth to Anstruther. Intelligence was received in Anstruther today of the drowning of Cellardyke fisherman, John Wilson, one of the crew of the Shields steam drifter Baden Powell while a voyage from Yarmouth to Anstruther. The vessel put into Shields, and intelligence was sent to Anstruther of the accident. Deceased, who was about 55 years of age leaves a widow and a family.

1914

OUR WOUNDED “POSTIE.” Private D. Brown, Black Watch, the Cellardyke “Postie” who was wounded and invalided home, left yesterday for the Perth Headquarters, where he had to report himself. Although Private Brown has been steadily improving, it is questionable as to whether he is yet fit or service. While in the fighting line, Private Brown had more narrow escapes from death On one occasion he had been told of to prepare tea for his Company. Leaving the “dixie” for a few moments, and while only a short distance away, a shell landed right in the “dixie,” which was shattered and scattered. On another occasion, he was sitting in one of the trenches, with his legs crossed. A large piece of shell landed right in between his legs, and made a deep hole in the ground, but he was untouched. To his regret, Private Brown never took part in a bayonet charge, although like many of his comrades he would have been glad of the opportunity of getting to close quarters with the enemy. In addition to the names already published of those from Cellardyke now serving in the Forces, we have to add those of George Hodge (Bowman), lst Class Petty Officer, H.M.S. Patrol, and Private Harry A. Bowman, 7th Black Watch (Territorials). From West Anstruther there is Leading Seaman James Smith, H.M.S. Warrior, a son of Mr James Smith, West Anstruther.

1884

NEW BAKING ESTABLISHMENT. THOMAS SWINTON, BAKER, CELLARDYKE, respectfully informs the Public of that place and District, that he has now Opened that Shop, 25 Shore Street, Cellardyke, for so long tenanted by Mr Alex. Donaldson, where he intends to carry on the Business of a BAKER in all its various branches. T. S. trusts that, by bestowing careful attention on his business, and selling Goods of the finest quality, he may receive a share of public support.

GREAT TERM SALE BOOTS, SHOES, AND SLIPPERS ALEX. WILSON’S, 31 JAMES STREET. CELLARDYKE. HAVING just received delivery of First Consignment of his AUTUMN and WINTER STOCK, A. W. desires to call the attention of his numerous Customers and the Public generally to the excellent value he is able to offer them. For extent, variety, and excellence of quality his Stock is unsurpassed in the East of Fife and Customers will find it much to their advantage to call and examine the same before purchasing elsewhere.

Undernoted are a few of my leading lines: —

Ladies’ Dress Slippers, from 1/11—extra value.

Ladies’ Strong Elastic Sided Boots, from 3/6 to 7/6.

Ladies’ Buttoned Kid Boots, from 6/9 to 13/6.

Ladies’ Kid Load Boots, from 7/6 to 12/6.

Ladies’ Lorne Shoes, from 4/8 to 6/6.

Ladies’ Strong Laced Boots, from 5/6 to 9/6.

Gent’s Dress Shoes, 7/6.

Gent’s Dress Boots, 10/6.

Gent’s Lorne Shoes, from 6/6to 12/6.

Gent’s E. S. Boots, 6 /6, 7/6, and 8/6—extra value.

Gent’s Strong E. S. Boots 9/6 to 17/6.

Gent’s Lacing Boots, from 7/6 to 16/6.

Navvies’ Strong Waterproof Boots, from 7/6.

Boys’ and Girls’ School Boots, from 2/9.

Ladies’ House Slippers, from 10 ½ d per pair.

Ladies’ House Boots, from 2/9 per pair.

Children’s Boots and Slippers in endless varieties, from 6 ½ d per pair.

To Fishermen. Sea Boots, Long, H and Made, extra value, from 30/.

Fishermen’s Wellington Boots, extra value, from 9/6.

Fishermen’s Blutcher Boots extra value, from 5/6.

Boots and Shoes Repaired on the shortest notice, at the following reduced prices:—

Ladies’ Boots or Shoes Soled & Heeled, from 1/9 p. pr.

Gents Boots or Shoes, Soled & Heeled, from 2/6

BOOTS And SHOES MADE TO MEASURE

An Early Call respectfully solicited.

Sale to Continue Three Weeks A. WILSON, BOOT AND SHOE MANUFACTURER, 31 JAMES STREET, CELLARDYKE.

On Saturday morning, the dead body of Elisabeth Jack or Thomson, wife of James Thomson, fisherman, Cellardyke, was found at the bottom of the deep cliff of rocks at the Billowness ‘ at a point right below the Kirklatch. Deceased had gone to Pittenweem the previous night, but little is known as to the hour at which the accident occurred. It is supposed, however, that on her way home at a late hour she mistook the May light for some other, and had wandered off the public road and walked over the cliff, which is fully 60 feet high. Death must have been instantaneous. A young man, residing in West Anstruther, was taking a walk over the Billowness, when he saw the body lying among the rocks. He lost no time in communicating with the police, who soon arrived at the spot. The body was examined by Dr Flaxman, Pittenweem who found that the neck and other parts had been broken by the fall, and it was afterwards conveyed to Cellardyke. Mrs Thomson was about fifty-five years of age, and was well known in the district. (another paper suggests this was suicide and that she stated to her sister on leaving the house at Pittenweem that “she would never see her alive again”)

1887

A Singular Adventure

The Melbourne mail has just brought some interesting details to the East of Fife. This is especially the case with regard to that Robinson Crusoe of our day—Captain Alex. Cunningham, late Anstruther (Cellardyke Boat Builder), who, with no one so much to turn the grindstone or blow the bellows, built and launched the tidy little trader of 70 tons, which now navigates all alone between Swan River and the city. The little smack sailed with as many loads of timber on the 2nd September. “You ought to wear a life-belt,” said an old Cellardyke acquaintance, William Doig, to the Captain. A joyous laugh was the only  answer as the mainsail filled to the breeze, and like a bird on the wing, the little craft flew on the moonlight sea till by-and-by the treacherous calm was succeeded by a dreadful typhoon. But the presence of mind, as well ingenuity, of the Captain did not forsake him. His anchors were the sport of the storm, but he prepared a novel kind of drag by fastening iron bolts into many lengths of chain so as to hold like birds’ claws on the bottom. But where is the human arm that can fight the hurricane? And the Captain could only wait, as the brave man waits for his doom, till he was so far roused by the clang of the breakers on the reef. He tried, as sailors say, first to stay and then to wear, but the canvas flew like gossamer out of the bolt ropes. Another lurch and the surf hissed in his ear. He turned to for the last time on sea and sky, when—No!—Yes !— there, under lee of the mainsail on the starboard side, was the red buoy on Coles Bank. It was far to windward, but I can at least try, he thought, and with an energy born of despair he threw his grapnel.  A wild cheer almost escaped his lips, for singular to tell one of the claws had caught the iron ring in the neck of the buoy which, scarce breathing the while with his critical task, he drew near as to fasten the smack securely with hawser and chain. But new terror flushed his mind. Was it possible that the moorings of the buoy could stand the fearful ordeal to which they were now exposed, and so as one on the brink of with the spindrift flying in drenching showers over his head, he waited for hours till, providentially, the gale blowing past, he recovered his tackle, and bore away the voyage. But this is not all. He arrived in such a fortunate turn of the market as to sell his cargo at the profit of 100 per cent.

1888

CELLARDYKE FOOTBALL MATCH AT LOWESTOFT—CAXTON CLUB v. CELLARDYKE BLUE JACKETS (SCOTCH Fishermen) –This match, played at Beccles on Saturday last, was a very hard-fought struggle from start to finish. It was seen from the play of the few Blue Jackets, who assisted Lowestoft the week before, that their whole team would be a hard nut to crack; and so it proved, they being a most dashing lot, and their kicking and ” heading ” extremely good. Caxton had three other games going at the same time, and this would seem to point to the fact that they had a strong team in the field. A glance at the teams, however, will show that quite half a dozen of the leading players were absent and to add to this an unwarrantable and unsportsmanlike “call off” at the last moment hampered Caxton considerably, a back having to be taken from the second team to fill the vacancy. The finish of the first half saw Caxton leading by a goal (kicked by Hockey), and the second had some way advanced before the fishermen equalised matters. Their success caused them to play up with even greater dash than before. Twenty minutes before time they had a goal to the good, and some sharp play near the home goal later on enabled them to score again. The game thus ended in a victory for the Blue Jackets by three goals to one. With about one exception both teams played well. Blue Jackets team—J. Smith, J. Watson, T. Faulkner, D. Doig, T. Doig, forwards; W. Sutherland, J. Cunningham, D. Moncrieff, half backs ; A. Thompson (captain), J. Wilson backs ; M Doig, goal

1889

LEAVING FOR AUSTRALIA. —On Wednesday, Mr James Cunningham, fisherman, Cellardyke, his family, and his son-in-law, Henry Gardiner, left Anstruther station for Australia. A large number of their friends turned out to bid them farewell. Among those present were Provost Martin, Messrs H. Brown, D. Black, C. Carstairs, J. McLeod, and the other teachers at present at home of Forth Street Hall Sunday School. Previous to the train starting, the hymn ” God be with you till we meet again,” was heartily sung. Mr Cunningham replied, and thanked them for turning out to wish him and his family good-bye. He sincerely re-echoed the wish of the hymn just sung.

James Thomson, fish cadger, and James Robertson, fisher, Anstruther, were accused before the magistrates of Cellardyke on Friday with a contravention of the Lindsay Act, in so far as they piled a heap of seaware in James Street, and so obstructed the thoroughfare on the last day of October. They pleaded guilty, and as a warning to others, were fined 5i each, or 7 days in jail.

1880

Arbroath –   The Gale – During the forenoon a fleet of Cellardyke boats, seven in number, came in for shelter, and remained. They left home on Monday night, at which time there was nothing to hinder them. They had sailed for the fishing at eight o’clock and when they were outside the Isle of May a strong westerly gale began to blew, compelling them to run for Arbroath, which they reached in safety.

1881

BRICK AND TILE WORKS.— understand that the Clephington Brick and Tile Works, which have been for a length of time in the hands of Mr Skinner, Cellardyke, are now in lease by Mr Wilson from the neighbourhood Falkirk. The rent is continued, we hear, at £35 per annum, with a royalty at a given sum, only to be anticipated, however, from more drainage improvements that have taken place in recent years.

SUDDEN DEATH.

An affecting instance of the uncertainty of life occurred in Cellardyke on Sabbath morning in the death of Mr John Marr. He had partaken supper with his accustomed zest and cheerfulness, and at a late hour retired to rest without seemingly a single ailment; but an unseen enemy was at the door, for wakening up an hour after midnight he complained of pain his breast, and almost on the instant expired. Mr Marr was about seventy-eight years of age. For a lifetime he was the landlord the change-house at the shore, which about sixty years ago had no little notoriety attached to it by an exploit of that prince thieves, David Haggart, who had broken from his pursuers at Newhaven pier by a desperate leap into a boat under weigh for Cellardyke. He retired from business some years ago, but to the last day of his life his agile step and cheerful face were as familiar ever in the old haunts- in truth, he was one of those bright and happy spirits who weave themselves by finer threads than silk or gold into the best affections all that come in contact with them. Mr Marr is survived by the worthy partner, who so long shared with him the joys and sorrows life. His eldest son is our respected townsman, Mr John Marr, draper, and his younger son, Mr Alexander, a leading merchant in Cellardyke.

1882

OPENING ANNOUNCEMENT. J OGILVIE, TAILOR and CLOTHIER, 31 James Street, Cellardyke, begs to return thanks to the Inhabitants of Cellardyke, Anstruther, and surrounding District for the support they have given him since he commenced Business. He now begs to inform them that he has Opened that Shop lately occupied by Mr Duncan, Oilskin manufacturer. Parties bringing their own cloth can have it made up at the lowest possible prices. Workmanship and Fit Guaranteed.

DISPUTE REGARDING OILSKINS.

In the Debts Recovery Court, Banffshire, William Duncan, manufacturer, Cellardyke, raised an action against George Flett, merchant, Findochty, for the sum of £88 11s 7d, with interest since 6th July, 1882, being the balance of an Account for goods supplied in October, 1881, and on the first mentioned date. The items in 1881 amounting to £4 2s 2d, were paid for, and the other goods were stated by defender to have been of inferior quality and part of them returned: The pursuer withdrew his to claim for the above item of £4 2s 2d, and restricted the conclusions of his summons to £54 9s 5d, with interest since the date of citation, and expenses. After the defender had retained certain of the goods sued for, as restricted, and sold part of them, he returned to the pursuer what remained unsold. The pursuer of admitted that intimation of the goods having been sent him had been received: but he refused to take delivery. Sheriff Scott Moncrieff, after hearing evidence at some length, yesterday issued the follow judgment :-“Having heard parties’ procurators and made avizandum with the evidence adduced: Finds that the items  in the account now-sued for supplied in 1881, and amounting to £4 2s 2d, ‘have been d, paid, and therefore sustains the first plea stated for the defender: Finds that the goods forming the remaining items were ordered and obtained by the defender from the pursuers; that the defender broke bulk, sold part of  them, and sent back the remainder, which the pursuer  has refused to receive: Finds in law that the defender is liable for the price of said goods, amounting to £34 9s 5d. Therefore, decerns against the defender for the sum of £34 9s 5d, with interest thereon at the rate of 5 per centum per annum from this date: – Finds: the defender liable in, expenses of process, subject to modification: Modifies the same to the sum of £6 12s, and decerns, at the pursuer’s instance, against the defender for said expenses.

1884

At the Burgh Court of Kilrenny on Saturday—Provost Skinner and Bailie Smith on the bench—an itinerant corkcutter named David Bain was charged under the Lindsay Act with being drunk and disorderly, especially in using obscene and abusive language to Mrs Sarah Woodward or Watterson of the Cellardyke Café on the previous night. Pleading guilty with a rueful look, he was fined in 7s 6d or 7 days in jail.

DISAPPOINTMENT AT YARMOUTH—GALES ON THE SCOTTISH COAST.

“Sair wark; I wish oor folk only safe hame,” was the exclamation all round as neighbour met neighbour with anxious and clouded brow on the door step to discuss the message the other day from Yarmouth to the effect that one of the Cellardyke crews had sold their herrings at the manure price of “three bawbees” the hundred. So far the season has been by no means encouraging to the Scottish boats; but happily this proved to be an extreme case, for only a few doors away a letter by the same post went on to tell “the weather was so calm on Tuesday that we could not land till next day, when our take fetched £4 the last, but others of us who had cast a second time only realised 1s a swill.” But not a few beside the young lover are wishing to-day for the green shores of Fife, for now that November is here very few except perhaps this and that crew who fished by way at Scarborough can yet count £100, while many, or rather most, do not figure so well in the salesmen’s ledger as to square the landlady’s bill, and with it the current expenses of the station. Thus, instead of looking hopefully forward to the third or fourth week of the month, more than one skipper has resolved, he writes, to leave on an early day. Thus message after message is giving the hint, so well understood those who to bait the line whether it may be for “Kellie by ower the kirk,” or the “Long Forties” in the North sea.” Take every chance to go to the park to gather grass, for if the wind is fair we intend to take the first moonlight for home. Of course, a turn In the market, or rather of the shoals, for Yarmouth and her sister are famous, would be like a burst of sunshine on sea and shore, but as it is the experience is in marked contrast to that of two years ago when the Fife crews, in some cases, at least, fished £550 to £750. Nor, we regret to say, is the prospect with hook and line Improved at the doors. We are not making daily bread, the old fathers would tell of a weary season, and this is so much the case to-day that the run to the North Sea does not always recoup the outlay for bait. Now and again it is true the rise to twenty, or it may be thirty baskets; but sales continue stagnant, if we may use the word, at a shilling a stone. Here is an anecdote in point, the big boats came scudding in the if week to Anstruther pier. ” I’ll gie ye 9s the cwt.,” said one of the buyers. “No, no. there’s male going at St Monance,” was the reply, as first one crew and then another hied for the westward, but the result, as the whisper goes, was not to find, but to lose a shilling by the journey. In short, according to the outcry on all sides, the industries of the sea on the Fife coast as elsewhere has not been so dull for a long series of years.

1870

The storm of Wednesday last in the Firth of Forth was succeeded another of equal severity on Saturday night and the following morning. About six o’clock on Sunday morning, a Cellardyke fisherman observed a sloop endeavouring to work up the Firth. The wind was SSE. at the time. The vessel, which bad lost the greater part of her canvas, began to drift rapidly to the eastward, and shortly before seven o’clock she went ashore among the rocks, about two miles from Anstruther. The vessel was seen among the rocks by the foreman the farm, who once gave the alarm. Several persons then proceeded to the shore, where the waves were rolling with great force. The ship was on high rock; but the sea broke over her in such a manner as to cause the greatest fear for the safety of the crew, who had taken to the rigging. While those on shore were engaged in trying effect some communication with the ship, her mast gave way, precipitating the crew (two men and boy) into the sea. They were all washed on rock, however, but it was too far from the shore for the spectators to render assistance. In a short time one the seaman was washed off the rock to which be and the two others were clinging; but, fortunately, he managed to get hold of another, which held until a ploughman went into the water up to his neck, and succeeded in palling him ashore. Meanwhile, the other two were washed off by a huge wave, and drowned. The vessel turned out to be the Watsons, of Thurso, Thomas Barry, master and owner, from Newcastle Andrews, with coal. The vessel a total wreck.

A “LIGHT” CASE. John Adamson, manager of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Gas Co., sued George Peebles, tailor, Anstruther, for the sum of 11s 2d, for gas consumed by him. Defender stated that his reason for refusing to pay the amount was that he considered it a gross overcharge. He handed the gas-book to his Lordship, remarking that he would see the great difference in the quantity of gas burned in the other quarters, while he (defender) was of opinion that he had burned less instead of more. From the evidence of the pursuer and another witness, if appeared that the meter in defender’s house had been taken out and repaired. The meter was examined on the 4th of February 1869, indicating at that time 300 feet, which was paid for at the time. It was again examined on the 4th of May, when it indicated 1900 feet, being a consumption of 1600 feet, the price of which was now sued for. The Sheriff said as the meter seemed to have been going regularly enough after it had been repaired, it would never do for him to decide against the company on such slight grounds as a comparison of the quantity consumed in former quarters. Decree for pursuer, with 4s 7d of expenses.

1871

CELLARDYKE. STABLE ON FIRE. —About eight o’clock on Wednesday night, a fire broke out in a stable occupied by Mr Alex. Myles, it appears that a boy had gone in to supper the horse, and while doing so had laid the lantern on the floor, when by some means or other the straw got ignited. The alarm was at once given, and in a few minutes a large number of persons turned out, by whose assistance a part of the roof was taken off, and the fire soon subdued. The horse was got out of the stable immediately after the fire commenced, but some pigs which were also in it received a slight scorching. The stable, which was insured, is not very seriously damaged.

Cheap Sloop.— The other week we reported that tut Anstruther herring boat had been offered for five shillings, and failed to find a purchaser; but that incident folly found a parallel on Friday last, when a smack of fifty tons burden, fully equipped for sea, was sold by public auction at the harbour for £14 10s. The smack was the well-known coaster Maggie Lander, which has been owned for some months past in South Shields, but, in consequence of the dull state of the times, her owner determined to sell her here at any sacrifice. No upset price was named, but a Cellardyke shipowner made offer of £5, which led to a short but spirited competition that resulted in the vessel being knocked down at the figure already stated to Mr David Anderson, slater, St Andrews. This sloop is of great age, having been built at West Anstruther in 1790. The old sloop was singularly fortunate, and it was often a jocular remark that the wind would become fair when the Maggie Lauder was ready for sea; and though she often embarked on a London and Caithness passage, and that at a time when no Bell Rock lighthouse, or even serviceable beacon of any kind cheered the mariner as he toiled along the dark and dangerous coast, the little Dutch-looking smack out-braved All perils, and is one of the last of the numerous fleet of coasters built at Anstruther, which, indeed, in the end of the last and beginning of the present century, was the principal ship-building seat in the Firth.

CELLARDYKE. OPENING OF A TELEGRAPH OFFlCE.—Although the telegraph wires have been extended to the Post Office here for some time back, it was not until Wednesday that the office was formally opened fur the despatch of messages. On that day, four telegrams were sent off, which, taking into account the dull state of trade at present, may be considered very satisfactory for a commencement. This office, however, does not as yet deliver messages, those arriving at Anstruther for persona residing in Cellardyke being delivered by the message boy at the former place. This materially detracts from the benefit the opening of the office was expected to confer, but it is to be hoped that the Post Office authorities will favourably consider the representations of Provost Martin, who, ever attentive to the interests of the burgh, has already taken steps to endeavour to have messages delivered as well as despatched from the office here.

1872

Fishing boat ashore at Yarmouth

Last Thursday afternoon, as the fishing boat belonging to Skipper Robert Keay, of Cellardyke, was proceeding to sea with a strong breeze blowing, she struck the ground at the side of the river. Fearing that they were in danger, the sail was let go, and the boat made fast to the side of the quay. The crew then made fast thick ropes aft and forward to the shore, in order to keep the boat from being driven down by the tide, which runs very fast. While in this position, one of the beachmen let go the stern rope, and immediately ran off, and the boat then went down the river until she went on shore at the north bank. The sea was running pretty high at the time, and breaking over the boat; which soon filled with water. The assistance of other Scotch fishermen at present at Yarmouth was obtained, and the boat hauled up as far as possible, but it was not until four o’clock next morning that she was got up at the back of the quay, with her ‘ gibber strikes’ split, and her bilge ropes off. It is to be hoped that the beachman who played the dastardly trick to the crew will be discovered, and receive the reward he so richly deserves.

1873

Another severe gale from the south-west raged over the Firth of Forth on sabbath night which again has swelled the calendar of the sea with wreck and disaster. When daylight broke on the Fife coast many an anxious eye scanned the stormy offing, and she foreboding  was not in vain, for scarcely a vessel was to be seen, but was more or less broken spars and rigging though the most unfortunate of all was a large schooner which lay dismasted about midway between the Billowness and the Bass Rock. The veteran Cellardyke pilot, Thomas Cunningham, there and then braved the tempest-tossed waves in a small yawl, and, after hailing the disabled craft, returned on shore with the intelligence that she was the Isabella of Arbroath, coal laden, from Shields to Grangemouth, when Mr Keay, of H. M.’s Customs, at once telegraphed to the owner and also for one of the steamers stationed at Leith. The schooner which had only a stump of her foremast standing rode gallantly at her anchors ; but, in the course of the forenoon, as the tempest began to shift to the northward, the Rev. F. K. Lloyd, of St John’s, Pittenweem, seeing the danger of the disabled ship which in the freshening gale would have drifted as helpless as a log on the surf-beaten lee, communicated with the secretary of the lifeboat, when the echoes of the signal gun had scarcely died along the shore when she was manned by an intrepid crew of Cellardyke fisherman, George Moncrieff as coxswain, and so with fore and main sheets tightened to the blast, the noble boat sped like bird on her errand of deliverance and mercy towards the disabled hulk. The Piers and every look-outpoint were crowded with anxious spectators, but before the lifeboat could reach the schooner, two tug steamers fortunately came alongside and by their united agency —though with great difficulty— she was towed to Leith. In the meantime, however, an exciting scene was going on at Anstruther pier, where a disabled foreign schooner lay in a situation of great alarm and danger. The vessel was steering for the harbour under the charge of the experienced old pilot already named, when the wind fouling as she neared the east quay, she was carried on the outlying skerrie known as the Wildfire, on which she rested, notwithstanding the anchor was cast, and every effort made to avert the disaster. Happily, however, a rope was taken to the West pier, when by the willing help of the large crowd who had gathered on the spot, the schooner was dragged int safe moorings with comparatively little damage. She proved to be the Karen Elese of and from Christiana with a cargo of wood for Burntisland, and had been thirty-six days on the voyage before she had encountered the gale, which had carried away her foreyard and damaged the rigging. The crew were suffering from want of provisions, but on being examined by Dr Mac Arthur, who went board at the request of Mr Keay, of the Customs, no contagious disorder had made its appearance.

1874

NARROW ESCAPE OF YOUNG WOMAN.—Yesterday morning a young woman, a daughter of Mr John Muir (Anderson), Cellardyke, had a very narrow escape from being run over by a cart. She was turning the corner at the entrance to Cunzieburn Street, just as two casts loaded with barrels full of herrings were passing, when her dress got entangled among her feet, and she fell with her head right in front of one of the carts. The carter was on the other side of the cart at the time, and did not observe the occurrence, but the young woman succeeded in raising her head just as the wheel was about to go over her, although so narrow was her escape that the side of her face was slightly bruised grazed by coming into contact with the wheel.

A COWARDLY ASSAULT.—At a Burgh Court held on Monday—Provost Todd and Bailie Darsie presiding—Henry Williamson and Peter Murray, fishermen, Cellardyke, were charged with assault and breach of the peace, in so far as, between seven and eight o’clock on the evening of Thursday the 15th instant, one or both of them did strike Alex. Parker, fisherman, one or two blows with clenched fists, and with kicking him while he was lying unconscious on the ground. Williamson pled guilty with greet provocation, but Murray denied the charge. From the evidence whim was led, it appears that the panels and Parker had been in the Forth Tavern together, and that the former had been struck by each of his companions. Williamson alleged that he had first received a blow from Parker, but this the latter denied. The landlord hearing the noise which they made, turned them out of the house, and on reaching the Street Parker was knocked down, and while insensible Williamson kicked him twice, Murray, according to two of the witnesses, urging him to ‘go into’ Parker. Both Williamson and Parker bore the marks of fighting. Murray alleged that Parker took ‘ glass for glass’ with him, and that the latter was ‘ drunker’ than himself. The Provost characterised the assault as a very brutal one on the part of Williamson, and the Magistrates sentenced him to pay a fine of 30s, or suffer 30 days imprisonment and Murray to a fine of 20s or 20 days in jail. When the sentence was read over, Murray exclaimed against Parker not being fined as well as himself, and on being cautioned to be quiet he shouted out that the Bench could not prevent him speaking. He, however, paid his fine and disappeared, when Williamson commenced to complain against the Magistrates’ sentence, and to cry ‘Shame.’ Although asked to be quiet he refused to be so, when he was fined other 10s for contempt of court. On hearing this, he declared his intention of going to prison rather than pay, and wished to get his first fine refunded. This, however, the officials declined to do, and ultimately a friend of Williamson’s paid the 10s and he was allowed to depart. The proceedings at the close created much excitement in the Court, which was crowded while the case was being heard.

CELLARDYKE. SCARLATINA.—ScarIet fever is at present very prevalent here, and there is scarcely a family where one or two of the children are not affected. It is generally of a mild type, but two fatal cases have occurred this week. Acting under the advice of Dr Macarthur, the Rev. Dr Christie, Chairman of the School Board, deemed it prudent to instruct the teachers under the Board to close their schools until the epidemic abated, and this was accordingly done in the beginning of the week.

WANTED two BOYS for the Boat Building Trade. Good Wages, and short Apprenticeship. Apply to J. A. MILLAR, Cellardyke.

1880

Mr Jarvis,( the boatbuilding yard next to the lifeboat shed) we may also observe, is busy with a singular experiment – that is, in recasting an old clinker boat into a carvel one, it is being executed on Cellardyke Green, and is at the instance of Mr James Dick.  We hear with unqualified pleasure of certain long-term improvements about to be fulfilled in an order entrusted to Mr Alexander Cunningham. This boat we hear will be the largest of her class, being three and fifty feet in length, and is to be rigged not at a lugger but as a ketch or dandy, so as to obviate the deadly hazard, as tearful eyes will tell you in Cellardyke, of dipping the sails in the midnight storm.

CURIOUS ACCIDENT IN THE HARBOUR. — AS the steamer Diamond, trading between this port and Leith, was edging her berth in the ebb of Monday, her propeller struck so violently on a piece timber fixed in the mud as to snap the shaft. A steam tug bad to be telegraphed for Leith to tow the disabled vessel thither for repair. The stray log, the cause of so much mischief, was part of a raft consigned many weeks ago to Mr Cormack, of the Steam Mills, Cellardyke, but the question damages over the accident will all probability be discussed early meeting of the Harbour Board.

1881

UNRULY COOPERS at the Bailie Court of Kilrenny on Friday— Provost Watson presiding—four coopers employed in Cellardyke, George Lawson, David Dun, John McLeod, and William Blyth, were charged with assaulting Mr David Muir, fisherman, at the harbourhead on the evening of Saturday week, and also with a breach the peace on the same time and place. All the panels appeared except Blyth, who is in the meantime at Yarmouth. They pleaded not guilty, but the evidence of several of the neighbours brought home the charge in the opinion of the court, and they were each fined 7s 6d, or ten days in jail.

Eyemouth Disaster

We understand that the Cellardyke Magistrates have held a conference with a view to raise a relief fund for the widows and children rendered destitute in consequence of the lamentable loss of life on the Berwickshire coast. As all the fishermen are at present absent on the Norfolk coast, it was deemed advisable to postpone the calling of a public meeting until next month.

1882

Agnes Lindsay or Moir, widow, residing in Cellardyke, sued Peter Montidore, fisherman, there, for the aliment of an illegitimate child. The pursuer’s mother explained that he was absent at his calling in Yarmouth; but she also took exception to the summons on the ground that the child had been born two years ago, and yet this was the first time the claim had been raised. Here the Sheriff quashed the case, as one, he said, not for the Small Debt, but for the ordinary roll, seeing that the paternity of the child was still undetermined in court.

WRECKAGE ON THE FIFE COAST. At daybreak yesterday a large quantity of stores, American provision casks, with several bags flour, were cast ashore in the East of Fife. At such points as the currents set at Crail, Cellardyke, and Anstruther the stores were gathered by hundreds. Several pieces of timber supposed to be part of a ship’s bulwarks were also picked up, and the waifs at Cellardyke include a hat, almost new. Various miscellaneous articles are likewise reported, and this circumstance has led to the opinion that the wreckage was cast overboard, or has floated away from the Hartlepool steamer Preston, which went ashore on Friday night on the Goswick Sands, near Berwick, while on the voyage from New York to Newcastle. Yesterday the gale and sea continued, with the result of adding largely to the quantity of wreckage cast the shore.

1883

HERRING-CURING YARD TO BE LET AT SANDHAVEN, With entry at Martinmas, 1893. That Large CURING YARD, with Cooperage, Salt Cellars. Smoke Houses, Cutting Shed, and extensive storage, presently occupied by Messrs Sharp & Murray, Cellardyke. Apply to Mr Shives. Bank Agent, New Pitsligo.

THE TRAWLING COMMISSION. (To the Editor of the East of Fife Record.)

Sir, —The enquiry going on about trawlers has brought to my mind what a respectable old fishermen of Cellardyke told me about 40 years ago. He had used a trawl for a year or two, but gave it up, as he saw that although very profitable for a short time, he was ruining the herring harvest to which he and most of his class looked forward to pay old scores. He told me that he had pulled to the surface in the Traith about two tons of herring spawn at one haul. Of course this would stop a small sailing boat, and he would be obliged to bring the net to the surface to empty it, but the power of a steam trawler is so great that she could go ahead with more than that, and smash it so small that it would be always escaping from the net as he went on, to make room for more, and being thus let loose would be tossed up and down with the strong tides in the Firth and never could come to life, and he would in a day or two destroy more herrings than are caught on the whole Scottish coast in a season.

Our townsman, James Henderson, is likewise giving the finishing touch to the eastern section Rodger Street, Cellardyke, in handsome block which has been by that practitioner, Dr Flaxman.

1884

It gives a pleasing idea of the unslackened energy in the herring trade that Messrs Duncan & Black’s net factory in Cellardyke is busy, in the meantime, by night as well as by day. There are at present 16 machines in motion, hitherto, as elsewhere, by the fair sisters of the coast; but in the course of the week a party of young men arrived by rail to work the night shift, so as to enable the spirited firm to overtake the orders thus early in hand.

1885

SHOP TO LET., that CORNER SHOP in Rodger Street, Cellardyke, recently occupied by Dr Flaxman. Apply James Henderson Anstruther;

The ENCLOSURE OF CELLARDYKE PUBLIC SCHOOL PLAYGROUND.  Mr Clark reported that Mr Sharp and he had conferred as to the enclosing of the playground at Cellardyke School, and came to the conclusion that it would be best to enclose the ground with an iron railing. He had made some enquiries as to the cost, and that it could be done for £72. The present wall and the coping were not suitable, and would have to be taken down to the bottom, as it was much too light. The cost included that, two iron gates, and a wooden gate at the top for the entrance of carts. The estimate included exactly a similar railing to that round Cellardyke Church. Mr Sharp said he would have some dubiety as to a wooden gate at the top, as the Cellardyke boys had a confounded practice of cutting and carving at doors, and he was afraid they would soon cut at it. Mr Clark replied that an iron gate would cost £10. If the wall and the coping had been suitable the cost would have been a great deal less, but it was not heavy enough to carry any weight. Mr Thomson thought the railing would be an improvement so far as looks were concerned, but the question was would it be effective in keeping their property from being destroyed. It was a very expensive matter to carry out. Mr Clark—if the boys get over the railing they will be easier caught. The railing itself only coat £28 with the gates. The height is to be 6 feet 3 inches over all, including 3 feet of a stone wall. I think it is not possible to go into the matter just now without more consideration, as the expense was serious. The Chairman suggested that the Committee should make out specifications, and submit them to next meeting, which after some discussion was agreed to.

THE OVER-ATTENDANCE AT CELLARDYKE PUBLIC SCHOOL The Chairman called attention to the large attendance at Cellardyke School, and said the teacher had stated that he was not to admit any more pupils. The accommodation in the school was for 225, and he thought the Board should see that the average attendance did not exceed that this year. They could not expect to get off as easily as before. The number on the roll was now 275, and the average attendance 250. The question was whether the teacher had not already taken in too many pupils. Mr Clark—l thought there was an understanding that he was not to exceed a certain number at the conference we had with him last year. The Chairman—There was nothing definite agreed to. Mr Clark— Well he should be at once instructed to take in no more. The Chairman—l would be disposed to have stopped short with 20 lees than he has. I think he has too many. Mr Clark—it appears to me that we are in the same mess as last year. It is most unsatisfactory that this matter should crop up again after the discussion we had about it last year. How are we to weed them out Mr Sharp—Leave it to Mr Barbour. I don’t think he will run the risk of getting something taken off his grant. On the suggestion of the Chairman the Clerk was instructed to write Mr Barbour, asking him not to take in more pupils or new names without the consent of the Board

THE BREAKING OF THE WINDOWS IN CELLARDYKE SCHOOL. It was reported by Mr Clark that 21 panes of the windows in Cellardyke School had been broken, and an account was presented amounting to £2 for putting them in again. Mr Clark thought it was absurd that two panes should have been mended only two days before the school closed to be broken shortly after the schools vacated. He refused to initial the account for payment. The account was ordered to be paid, as were some others. The Clerk stated that he had received no reply from the father of the boy who was known to have broken a number of the windows, in answer to his request to pay the damage, but that as soon as he came home from the south fishing he would be again requested to pay.

Mr Sharp mentioned that a part of the zinc of the roof of Cellardyke School had been displaced, and the rain had been coming in to the school, causing great discomfort. He suggested that it should be looked after at once. Mr Clark —That roof has been a perfect humbug to us and a great expense. It is a pity that it was not set fire too, and us to get the insurance. (Laughter.) The Committee were instructed to have the roof repaired. After a long discussion on the question of cleaning the schools and offices, it was agreed to engage, if possible, a suitable man to do the work at a salary of £l2 10s per annum. The Board then adjourned.

1886

ACCIDENT TO AN APPRENTICE BAKER. –On Wednesday morning, while George Fleming, a young apprentice baker with Mr Black, Cellardyke, was loading straw in a cart at Anstruther farm, the horse shied at some object and suddenly ran off, causing Fleming to fall out. When picked up it was found that his left arm bad been broken and severely bruised by the fall. The injured limb was attended to by Dr Craig, and he is recovering as well as could be expected.

THE FEVER EPIDEMIC. Scarlet fever and diphtheria have been very prevalent in the East of Fife during the past two or three weeks. Precautions were adopted to isolate the disease by the Local Authorities and the School Boards, but the number of cases continues on the increase. Dr Craig, the Medical Officer of Health, has at the request of the Board of Supervision prepared a report, in which he attributes the cause of the disease to overcrowding and the want of a proper drainage system and water supply. The cases have mostly been of a mild type, and there have been 103 cases of scarlatina, 21 of diphtheria, and of measles in Cellardyke. He recommends the closing of all the schools, but from the varied nature of the cases hospital isolation would, he finds, be impracticable. The Local Authority are resolved to reply to the Board of Supervision that they have been prevented by a proprietor interested not coming to terms with them from carrying out a drainage system which they had begun. Anstruther have unanimously refused to agree to the recommendation to close the schools, maintaining that there is no necessity for it.

According to the information received from the south, the fishing has this week been a blank owing to the stormy weather. The boats left for sea on Monday, but were forced to return by the severity of the gale. One Cellardyke boat had her mast broken, but fortunately none of the crew were injured. Similar news came from Scarborough, and a number of the boats there will leave for home next week.

1888

THE CELLARDYKE URQUHART WYND WELL. (To the Editor of the Record.) Cellardyke, October 11^th, 1888

Dear Sir,—ln finding the report of the meeting of the Kilrenny Town Council, in your last issue, I was amused at the charming simplicity shown by the members of Council in acceding so tamely to the proposal of Bailie Smith, to retain the old Urquhart Wynd well, merely because 3 boilers in that district are supplied therefrom. while all the other fishermen get supply either from their own wells, or from the new water supply, He seems to argue that the new water is unsuitable for barking purposes, while ” ony auld wife ” could tell him that the softer the water the better for that purpose He is also reported, in another paper, to have said, in answer to a question by Councillor Melville, that the fishermen, when in Aberdeen, largely use salt water. (I presume he means because of the softness of the Town’s water.) This is contrary to fact. However, this may be, are the members of the Town Council aware that for every gallon of water drawn from that old well for barking purposes 100 gallons are used for domestic purposes? This is a serious affair, after the Board of Supervision have condemned the water, the Council would do wisely to shut it up altogether. – I am, yours truly, A B

LATE Mr James Murray. —The death is announced of Mr James Murray, Cellardyke, after a short illness of a fortnight’s duration. Skipper Murray was the pioneer of the south fishing, having upwards of 30 years ago been the first skipper who ventured to go to the fishing in Yarmouth and Lowestoft. Having been successful, his example was soon followed by many of the crews in Cellardyke, and has been continued ever since.

1903

STEAM CAPSTAN ‘AND PROPELLOR FOR FISHING BOATS. We have much pleasure in calling attention to MACDONALD’S – IMPROVED STEAM CAPSTAN, and to their New and Highly Satisfactory PORTABLE PROPELLOR for FISHING BOATS. The Propellors, which can be fitted into any boat, have surpassed all expectations, and are capable of driving a boat at six knots without interfering with her as a sailing craft. We shall be glad to give particulars to interested parties regarding this most important invention to Fishermen. JOHN MARTIN & Co., CELLARDYKE

NB it is a Macdonald’s capstan that is aboard the Fisheries Museum’s Reaper

THE UNIVERSITY, ST ANDREWS. —ln the results of the examinations for the M. A. degree held recently at the above, we note the name of W. S. Birrell, Cellardyke, passed in Greek.

1904

THE FISHING AT SCARBOROUGH. —At Scarborough on Wednesday night last week a storm of great severity raged. Seven boats belonging to Cellardyke were at sea. Two of their number arrived at Bridlington, one pulled his nets and came in on Thursday afternoon, but the other four were riding at their nets. These all received great damage and loss of the gear. They had shots ranging from ten up to 30 crans price 19s per cran. One BF. boat broke his chain and parted from his whole drift, which meant a big loss of messenger ropes, nets, buoys, &c. It was one of the severest gales that has been experienced by fishermen for a long time.

FATAL ACCIDENT INQUIRIES CUPAR. Cellardyke Brothers Drowned. Before Sheriff Armour and jury at Cupar to-day two public inquiries were down for hearing in connection with fatal accidents which took place the county recently. The first case had reference to deaths of John Deas, fisherman, and Alexander Gilmour Deas, assistant fisherman, who resided Rodger Street, Cellardyke. They were following their usual employment on the forenoon of Monday, 25th July, in the service of their father, James Deas. on board the Thistle, and after leaving Anstruther Harbour, Alexander Deas -was accidentally struck by the main sail and knocked into the water. His brother John leapt into the water his assistance, but both were drowned. The witnesses in this case did not appear, and the inquiry was adjourned.

1905

Sam, Bough RSA – a biography

… a few years before his death (Bough) painted a picture in water colours for the benefit of the Cellardyke Fisherman’s disaster fund. The subject was “Fishing Boats putting out to Sea” – a stormy effect. The picture bore an inscription to the effect that it was presented for the benefit of the sufferers of the Cellardyke disaster by Sam Bough.

Upwards of 80 females from Cellardyke, Pittenweem, and ST Monans have left for Yarmouth and Lowestoft to employed gutters during the next two months.

RESIGNATION OF TOWN OFFICER. —The resignation of Mr John Mitchell, town officer of Cellardyke, will no doubt be heard with deep regret by his many friends and acquaintances. Mr Mitchell has held the post of town officer for the long period of 22 years, during which time he has been a familiar figure to all who had occasion to meet him, privately or officially. Always cheery and having a greeting for all, John wag universally liked and respected. For a long  number of years he led a seafaring life, having been nearly twenty years on Messrs Currie’s boats in the Leith and Hamburg trade He sailed on the ” Forth,” the old paddle steamer engaged in the Anstruther and Leith trade, and afterwards on the “new” screw steamers on the same line of sailings. The Anstruther and Leith steamers claimed his services for nearly 20 years, and he also acted as their porter on shore, for a long time collecting the money due to the steamship company, in which capacity he was well known along the mast from Elie to Crail. He commenced his duties as town officer 22 years ago under the late Provost Watson, who only held office for a fortnight after Mr Mitchell’s-appointment. During these 22 years, he has served under no less than five Provosts, via., Provosts Watson, Skinner, Martin, Thomson, and Black, the former three having long since joined the great majority. John has, in his official capacity, attended no less than 789 funerals, including those of several local personages. Between 50 and 60 marriage suppers have been held in the Hall during his term of office, and for soirees, well—” he couldna say, there’s been that mony, it wisna easy mindin’ them a’.” John never got anything but praise for his services, and he never heard anyone say anything against him. All who know him will heartily concur in this and wish him and his worthy spouse quiet and comfort in their well-earned retirement.

After the appearance of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Gospel Temperance Band at the recent opening of the Williamson Memorial Fountain in Shore Steet, the Committee of the union decided to approach Mr Archibald Williamson and solicit a subscription in aid of the funds of the Bind. Their appeal has met with a ready response, as on Monday, the secretary received a letter from Mr Williamson, enclosing a cheque for two guineas.

1906

Skipper M, Gardner’s Bravery.—We have been favoured with a look at the watch presented to Skipper Martin Gardiner for his brave action in going to the rescue of the crew belonging to the St Monans boat Puritan while at Lerwick on July. The watch and guard is an exceedingly handsome specimen of the watchmaker’s craft, bearing the skipper’s initials in cleverly embossed work on the front, while under the cover the following inscription is to be seen: — “Presented by the Fish Trade to Martin Gardiner, mater of the SS. Vanguard 111 for bravery in rescuing the crew of the boat Puritan, wrecked on Green Holm, Lerwick. 19th July 1909.” The chain is also a handsome one, and has a masonic pendant attached.

Mr George Smith, son of Skipper William Smith (Black), Cellardyke, has passed the Board of Trade examination as second mate at Victoria, British Columbia.

1907

Last night a contingent of some 120 fish workers, drawn from Cellardyke, Pittenweem, St Monance left by special train composed of corridor carriages for Edinburgh direct, where they were to be joined on to the south-going trains for Lowestoft, Yarmouth, &c.

OFF TO YARMOUTH. DEPARTURE OF FIFE FISHER LASSIES. The female fish-workers East Fife who had been previously engaged, both local and North Country fishcuring firms work the herring curing stations at Lowestoft and Yarmouth, were called upon to leave on Friday evening. There being over sixty all told, arrangements were made on this occasion whereby the lot were conveyed by special train composed of three corridor carriages, which left Anstruther after the last ordinary west-going train with a contingent of workers from Cellardyke, picking those from Pittenweem and St Monans en route, and thereafter proceeding direct for Edinburgh, where the carriages were coupled to the south-going English train. The contingents had a hearty send-off from a large following of their comrades at the respective stations.

The Rev. Peter T. Thomson, Leicester, who has suffered seven days’ imprisonment as passive resister the education rate, son of ex-Provost Peter Thomson, draper, Cellardyke.

1908

A telegram was received this forenoon in Anstruther announcing the fact that the local drifter, the Scots Greys, Skipper James Dick, Cellardyke, had . gone ashore in foggy weather early in the morning, at Happesburgh, about 20 miles north of Yarmouth. The telegram added that the expectation was that the drifter would be floated off next tide.

On Monday morning, twenty-four drifters and an Inverness sailer, left for the south. Seldom indeed if ever before have so great a crowd lined the piers, and it looked as if the whole inhabitants of Cellardyke had turned out to bid farewell to the fishers. All the vessels got away in good time, the only drifter left being the Vanguard 111, which had come home after being repaired. She sailed on Tuesday for the south.

THE SOUTH HERRING FISHING. —Not much has been done yet by the local drifters and boats at the south. On Tuesday at Scarborough, the SS Breadwinner had 12 crans at 27s per cran, while at Shields the same day, the Craignoon and Pride of Fife had £10 each, the Daisy £9, the Eva £6, and the Edith £2. At Grimsby on Tuesday, herrings were sold at a penny each, the scarcity sending up the price to 65s per cran. The Venus had £33 and the Evening Star £12 also at Shields on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the following drifters had shots at Shields :—Pride o’ Fife £24, Violet £23, Morning Star £21, Unity £18, Edith £15, Alices £13, and Daisy £11.

CARGO OF  BARRELS FOR YARMOUTH.—On Tuesday, the SS. Kilburne of Whitehaven entered Anstruther harbour and took on board a cargo of 2000 barrels from Messrs Melville & Sons, for Yarmouth. The steamer smiled with the evening tide. The captain of the steamer was informed by the harbour-master that he entered and lay at the head of the east pier on his own risk, and Mr Melville had to accept the risk before the captain would consent to remain. Nothing happened. however, and the Kilburne sailed in the evening.

THE RETURN OF THE DRIFTER VANGUARD. — The steam drifter Vanguard 111., Skipper Martin Gardner, jnr., arrived at Anstruther harbour on Saturday morning. It will be remembered that this drifter stranded on the sands at Saltburn on the English Coast on the 10th of September, and after a few days was success fully floated, and towed to Shields where she underwent a thorough overhaul and repair. The expense was borne by the Herring Drifter Insurance Company. Peterhead, and no cost has been spared by them to deliver the drifter to the owners in a first class condition. Besides having all her machinery overhauled and the hull put in order, she has been painted outside and in, all at the cost of the Insurance Company, who willingly offered to see that all was made right. The owners are satisfied that the Company have treated them very generously. The vessel was inspected by numbers of the fishermen during the weekend, and all were loud in their praise of the insurance company having done the work of repair so well and without any loss of time.

1909

A series of meetings, under the auspices of the Scottish Branch of the Free Trade Union is being held in East Fife during the present week. On Monday night a meeting was held in the Public Hall, Upper Largo, when the Rev. Ian Bruce presided, and Messrs J. C. Haig and R. B. Ditch spoke on the question of Free Trade. Ur Haig, illustrating the benefits of Free Trade, gave a striking local example. He told how some 60 years ago two brothers left the little Fifeshire village of Cellardyke, where their father kept a miscellaneous store in which he sold “treacle, tar, and testaments,” to quote his own description. The brothers went to Adelaide, South Australia, which was then a small township, and while there the sons thought there were certain goods which their father sold which would fetch very much higher prices in Adelaide than in Cellardyke, and that on the other hand there were certain goods which could be bought cheaply in Adelaide which would fetch good prices in Fifeshire. So they sent out a small consignment of Australian goods and received a small consignment in exchange, and was the beginning of a profitable intercolonial trade, and the two brothers founded the great firm of D. & J. Fowler, Ltd., the largest in S. Australia. Free Trade tended to foster international trade, whilst so-called “Tariff Reform” tended to check. it. Several questions were put and answered. Other meetings will be addressed by the same speakers this week at Leuchars, Tayport, Newport., and Ladybank.

Considerable anxiety was felt in Cellardyke last Saturday and Sunday in consequence of no word having been received of the whereabouts of six boats belonging to Cellardyke, which bad been fishing from Yarmouth. Frequent telegrams were passed between the South and Anstruther, and on Sunday morning word came that three bad come in all safe. The others turned up at night, the crews having ridden out the storm and gale at’ their nets. The satisfactory news of the safety of the boats gave much relief to the anxious ones at home

1890

The fishing boat Alaska, Skipper Peter Muir, left Anstruther on Monday for Yarmouth, and arrived there after a remarkable quick passage of 30 hours, the lowest on record.

Mr Daniel Cormack, Cellardyke Public School, has passed the recent July examination for admission into the Training College, Moray House, Edinburgh, and gained a scholarship of £230.

The Lammas herring fishing at Anstruther has been the poorest on record, but the Cellardyke boats which were engaged at Fraserburgh, Peterhead, and Aberdeen have done well. Some 120 of these boats are now prosecuting the fishing off Scarborough, Yarmouth, and Lowestoft, with every prospect of success, and is hoped this will neutralise the poor returns obtained at home.

1891

About six o’clock yesterday morning, as Charles Tulloch, labourer, residing in Lodge Walk, was walking along the south bank of the River Dee, discovered the dead body of a man lying in a foot of water about fifty yards south the Victoria Bridge. The body was at once removed to the Police Office, Torry, here was identified as that of David Corstorphine (50), fisherman belonging to Cellardyke. On the previous night the unfortunate man had been in town along with some companions, and is supposed he had been returning to his lodgings along the river bank, when owing to the slippery nature of the ground had missed his footing and fallen in, and had been unable to extricate himself from the mud. The deceased came to town about fortnight ago, and had been engaged as fisherman on board steam fishing boat. Dr Robertson, examining the body, found that life had been extinct for some hours.

NB – Note from Harry Watson – The age of David Corstorphine was incorrectly reported he was only 19

1892

On Saturday, while some children were playing on board the boats in the inner harbour, one of them, a boy of seven years, son of Mr Alex. Fraser, shoemaker, Cellardyke, fell into the water. His companions gave the alarm, and fisherman, named George Anderson, West Anstruther, immediately leaped in after him. With some trouble, caused by the struggles of the child, he swam to the side of the boats, where others relieved him of his charge. Fraser was unconscious, but was speedily brought round. Anderson was none the worse, but he deserves great praise for his promptitude, and it to be hoped the affair will not be allowed to rest here and suitable recognition made for his gallant conduct, this is the seventh life he has saved within four years.

Burgh Court. —On Thursday—before Provost Martin and Bailie Thomson, Cellardyke–James McGee, vagrant, was charged with breach of the peace and breaking two panes of glass in a dwelling house in James Strut. He pled guilty, and was fined 7s 6d or 7 days. He went north. (Dundee Jail)

Yarmouth fishing – …….The KY boat Hawarden Castle, from Cellardyke, had a collision with another Yarmouth vessel in the harbour, and she also in dock. The herrings caught by the Scotch boats are still small and ordinary quality.

Early on Sunday morning the joists of a house in James Street, Cellardyke, were found to be on fire. The brigade was called out, and the flames extinguished without difficulty, A neighbouring chimney had been on fire the preceding night, and the flames had smouldered till the smoke alarmed the inmates. Little damage was done.

1894

There was still very little done at Islay last week. The weather being fine all the boats were et sea every night. The takes on Thursday were a little more encouraging than the former part of the week. Some of the Cellardyke boats had a few crans, one had as high as 30 baskets, and on Saturday another one had 36 baskets. The prices ranged from 4s to 4s 6d per basket.

1895

The Train Service. —Mr Conacher, the Manager of the North British Railway, has replied to the petition sent to him by the merchants of Anstruther and Cellardyke asking for a continuance of the present morning train service in order secure an expeditious letter delivery in the East of Fife. Mr Conacher regrets that the amount of traffic will not allow the present morning service to be continued. Mr Marr, on behalf of the memorialists, has written to Mr Conacher to state definitely whether the 6.15 and 7.40 a.m. trains are to be withdrawn in November and one substituted at 7.25. No further reply has been received, but the Town Clerk has written to the Post Office authorities to send down an official to make inquiries into the unsuitable and inconvenient arrangements of last winter, by which a letter took nearly 24 hours before it was delivered to towns a few miles away.

1897

On Wednesday last a woman went into a public-house in Cellardyke and drank half a gill of whisky, which being done she discovered that she had no money, and offered the key of her door as a pledge, until she would go home and get it. (How was she to get into her house?)

1898

Sudden death in Castle Street. On Wednesday evening, a very sudden death occurred in Castle Street. Mr Thomas Moncrieff, fireman aboard the Anster Fair, arrived in the afternoon with the liner. He was then in his ordinary health, and continued at his work until the evening. Shortly after nine o clock he went to bed and lay talking with a member of his family. About half past nine, his wife heard him breathing heavily with a curious sound in his throat, and at once called in her neighbours, one of whom ran to Dr Wilson. Before the Doctor reached the house Moncrieff had expired. Moncrieff was 41 years of age and left a widow and several of a family. He belonged to Cellardyke, and served his time as a cooper with Mr Bonthron. Until lately he resided on the English coast. He was well known and greatly respected in the district. The Anster Fair did not proceed to sea yesterday morning but her flag was flying half mast all day out of respect for the fireman.