Author: cellaradmin

1910

PRESENTATION TO A NATIVE OF CELLARDYKE IN SOUTH WALES. The “Glamorgan Free Press” of last Friday contains a long report and photo sketch of Mr W. W. Pratt. electrical engineer to the National Collieries, Wattstown, and who is leaving that district to take op an appointment in Western Canada. Mr W. W. Pratt is a son of the late Mr David Pratt, Cellardyke, where he was born. The Free Neel says: —Mr Pratt is a Scotchman typical of hie race, a clever young engineer. and when he came down from Scotland live or six years ago on construction work for his firm, he immediately made a number of friends, and when it was learnt that the popular Scot had been offered and had accepted a position as electrical engineer at, the collieries the news was received with delight. The predominant feeling, now that he is leaving, is one of sincere regret. Mr Clissold presented Mr Pratt with a handsome case of instruments. It was, he said, to him a pleasant duty, as he would have considered it a reflection on them if Mr Pratt had been lamed to leave without some recognition. (Applause.) On behalf of his friends and admirers in Wattstown and Porth he had pleasure in handing him the present subscribed for, and he hoped it would be a source of delight to his family when he came to have one. (Laughter and applause.) Mr Pratt, on rising to reply, was loudly cheered. When he first thought of leaving Wattstown he intended to go away quietly as he came. But his friends had other views, and when he heard that they were arranging to give him a send-off, he had never anticipated that he would be treated like this. When you come to leave a place you find out who, after all, are your real friends, and that they are substantial friends. (Hear, hear.) He thanked them all from the bottom of his heart for the way they had treated him. He would never forget It. The memory of it would live with him always, and his thoughts would often stray back to the friends he left behind.

NOTES AND COMMENTS Apropos of our note the other week on the necessity of securing deeper water at Anstruther Harbour, a Cellardyke fisherman writes: —”l heartily approve of your remarks on the best plan for getting deeper water in Anstruther harbour. I have long maintained, and many more in Cellardyke besides myself, that the most practical way to obtain seven to ten feet of extra water, is to excavate, and have the same depth at the Folly and foot of middle and west piers as at the pier head. Everyone can see what an enormous advantage this would be to the harbour in developing the fishing industry very considerably, and increasing the prosperity of the district. Let the Harbour Commissioners employ an engineer to draw up plans and give a probable estimate of the expense of this scheme, including of course the blasting of the rocks on the outside of the east pier, westwards and southwards. I think it is better to go in for deepening rather than extension, for if we had deeper water to enable boats and drifters to get in at all states of the tide an extension scheme could be resolved upon as the necessity for such made itself felt. You have, wisely, I think, urged the need of the Harbour Commissioners to lodge a claim with the Development Commissioners, as you call them. Then why not consult their engineer at once, and send his report and estimate with their claim to the Commissioners as soon as possible. I suppose all the members of the Harbour Board admit the great need there is for deeper water. Well, let them stop thinking and speaking, and take action. They may have a chance of getting something by sending in a claim, but if they sit still and do nothing, they cannot expect any grant of money. They have our new member of Parliament anxious and willing to do all in his power to assist them, and his powerful support ought to be taken advantage of.

1911

Wedding

SMITH WATSON. —A t Yonkero, New York, U.S.A., on the 23rd of June, by the Rev. Paul Stratton, George, fifth son of Thomas Smith, fisherman, Cellardyke, to Lilias, eldest daughter of the late William Watson. fisherman, Aberdeen.

Death

MELDRUM. —Ate Skinningrove Hospital, the result of an accident, on board the fishing boat Golden Rule, of Cellardyke, John Meldrum, aged 40 years, son of John Meldrum, shoemaker, West Anstruther, Also their eldest son, James Gerard Meldrum, who died August 5th 1900, from the result of an accident on H.M.S. Charybdis, aged 35 years, and is interred in St John, Newfoundland. Mr and Mrs Meldrum desire to return their sincere thanks for the many kind expressions of sympathy received by them in their recent sad bereavement. Elizabeth Place, West Anstruther. July 10th 1911.

CELLARDYKE. Water Shortage— Owing to the prolonged drought the Cellardyke authorities have restricted the water supply to Cellardyke and Kilrenny to twelve hours, the water being shut off each night at six o’clock until six o’clock the morning. The reservoir Balmonth is down nearly 14 feet, and as there is very little inflow, the supply has to be conserved as much as possible.

1912

FIFE-MANNED STEAM DRIFTER IS LOST, BUT CREW ARE SAVED. Intelligence has been received of the loss of the Shields drifter manned Cellardyke crew and skipper, near Wick. The Roamer, which was engaged the herring fishing, sprung a leak, and made water so rapidly that the pumps choked. Fortunately, the Chance, Wick, another steam drifter, was near and succeeded saving the crew and their gear. The Chance towed the Roamer a considerable distance, but the latter was making water so rapidly that the crew of the former had to abandon their attempt at saving the boat. The Roamer, skippered by Chas. Gen, Cellardyke, was owned by the Roamer Fishing Company, Ltd., North Shields.

WEST ANSTRUTHER. Cycling on Footpath. —A young Cellardyke lad pled guilty before Provost Porter and Bailie Menzies last Friday to having ridden a cycle on the footpath along Pittenweem road. He paid a fine of 5s in alternative to 3 days imprisonment.

CELLARDYKE CREW’S FIND. On Saturday while the steam drifter Capella (DE. 131) skipper, Thos. Boyter, Cellardyke was returning from the herring fishing to Anstruther, and while about sixteen miles east and south from May Island, the crew picked up a toy balloon. On the outside was a printed Liverpool newspaper, while inside was a slip of paper with an intimation that the finder, on returning the same before 3rd August would receive» £1 Needless to say, Skipper Boyter lost no time on his return to the harbour in sending on the document.

1913

 MARRIED.

MOTION —TAWSE—At Elbow Park, Calgary Canada, on June 20th by the Rev, A.D. Archibald, Knox Church, William, third son of the late Wm. Motion, to Janet Anderson, only daughter of the late Alexander Tawse, Cellardyke. –

McMURRAY – CLARK – At Chicago. Illinois, on the 27th June, by Special Licence, to Christopher R. McMurray to Davina Mackie, daughter of John Clark, Parkview, Cellardyke.

1914

SMART GIRL wanted for Boot Department. Apply JOHN BUTTERS, Cellardyke.

WANTED experienced Cock General, for Leeds, good wages. Apply Comely Bank, Cellardyke, before August 4th.

The friends of Mr Robert Ray, Lecturer in Zoology in the South African College, Cape Town. will be pleased to learn that he has been elected a Fellow of the Linnaean Society. It may be mentioned that the Linnaean Society was founded in London in 1788 in memory of the celebrated Swedish botanist Linnie, commonly called Linnaeus, for the promotion of the study of all departments of botany and zoology, and that most of the leading scientists of this country are Fellows of it.

1885

Telegrams were to-hand on Thursday that the “James” of Cellardyke had landed 86 crans on Tuesday at Cullivoe, Skipper James Brunton having thus fished over 200 crans for the fortnight or so. In some cases the engagement is 150, as at Uyea Sound, where the “Reform” of Anstruther, with only fifty crans in the end of the week, was so fortunate as to fulfil her contract by Wednesday. Indeed, the present week has witnessed perhaps the most extraordinary herring harvest thus early at the Island. Thus, at Balta the boats fished so well that some of the merchants had an average of 40 crans, but the luck was shared all round, so gratifying are the advices concerning the Fife crews at the most opposite points of the group—though here and there the gale was so severe as to occasion more or less damage to the nets. As a consequence, barrels and salt are at a premium. Messrs Sharp and Murray sold another thousand barrels this week, and we are not surprised to hear that lot after lot are already changing hands at 4s.

Fraserburgh Sudden Death. David Henderson, aged about 32 years, labourer, from Kirkcaldy, and at present engaged on board a Cellardyke boat, died very suddenly here yesterday morning. Deceased had been drinking heavily lately, and his condition was such that a doctor had to be called in some three days ago. Henderson got up about 1 a.m., and wanted to go out of the window, but on his friends remonstrating with him, he went back to his bed. and almost immediately thereafter expired. He leaves a widow and four children in Kirkcaldy. Death is supposed to have resulted from the bursting of blood vessel the region of the heart.

An interesting export

The other day a consignment of 40 cases, or as many cwt, of dry ling left the station here (Anstruther) to export to New South Wales, to the order of Mr David Corstorphine who lately left Cellardyke to ush his fortunes in this rising province, where he has just opened a general store in Waverley. East of Fife ling, however, have long been a prize tit bit on the tables of Australia.

1886

On Stephen Williamson being elected to Westminster for the Kilmarnock burghs

RECEPTION OF THE NEWS IN ANSTRUTHER. The news of Mr Williamson’s victory was received in Anstruther Coast Burghs on Wednesday in forenoon. The telegram announcing the result was read to a number of people in Shore Street, who at once raised loud cheers for Mr Williamson. Congratulatory telegrams were at once despatched to the hon. member from several persons. The news soon spread everywhere there was a good deal of rejoicing over the victory. The skippers of some of the boats lying in the harbour at once hoisted flags, while from a number of private houses bunting was also displayed. The captain of the schooner Anapira run up a streamer of flags, while one was also suspended from the Chalmers’ Lighthouse by Mr John Parker. In Cellardyke there was a good profusion of flags in James St, and other places.

Aberdeen – A number of yawls from Cellardyke arrived at Point Law to-day, and negotiations were entered into between the crews and curers here, but no engagements were made, the fishermen demanding 18s per cran. which the curers declined give.

FISHERMAN DROWNED This forenoon intelligence was received Anstruther that a young fisherman named Robert Watson, belonging Crail, had been drowned late last night. was one of the crew of the Cellardyke fishing boat Alaska, which left Anstruther Harbour for the north fishing stations. While trimming the sail the vicinity Fifeness he was knocked overboard. Every effort was made to save him, but without avail. He was 20 years of age and unmarried.

(The skipper was David Davidson and the boat had a crew of six, the boat was under full sail, they threw an oar to him but by the time they got the boat round he had disappeared)

1887

Holidays. – With the fishermen out town, business in Cellardyke almost comes to a standstill. So much so is this the case that the merchants, as in former years, have begun this week to close at 6 o’clock in the evening, and observe Wednesday as a whole holiday. In Anstruther and Cellardyke, Wednesday and Thursday first are to be observed as the usual summer holidays.

Large Eggs. – We have had handed to us for inspection two eggs, dropped by hen belonging to Ex Bailie Brown, Cellardyke, which, on account of their size, demand a passing notice. One measures 6¼ inches in circumference, 4 inches in diameter, and within a fraction of ¼ of a lb. The other is 6 inches in circumference, 4 inches in diameter, and weighs 3½ ozs. The hen which acknowledges these eggs doesn’t lay often but when she does lay she seems determined to make a good job of it.

Laying Water pipes in Cellardyke

On Monday the contractor made a beginning in laying water pipes through the streets of Cellardyke. The commencement was made at the head of Tollbooth rd. So far the progress has been easy; but as advance is made along John Street and George street it is anticipated that rock will be largely met with. As traffic just now is at a minimum, interruption won’t be so great as it would have been at any other season of the year.

1888

An Ancient Mariner. — Mr John Baxter, one of the oldest seamen in Fife, died at Cellardyke on Tuesday. He was born at Pittenweem in 1803, or 85 years ago, and took to sea when it was usual to sail to London and even to the Baltic in a smack of 30 tons burden. He had his own share of the dangers of the deep — in particular, he was on board the Anstruther sloop, Janet, which foundered in Largo Bay, when one of his shipmates was drowned. He had also a miraculous escape in the St Laurence, being all but frozen to while clinging for four-and- twenty hours to the rigging in a fearful snowstorm, when the old brig was expected to go to pieces every second. It was, indeed, a terrible experience — one after the other fell into the boiling flood. It is well it is we, not they, who are to be pitied, wept the captain, who died with the cheer of the boat- men in his ear. After a cruise in this and that ocean ship to all parts of the world, he sailed in his own tidy little smack, the Barbara, till, like Othello, his occupation was gone, by the extension of the railway, which left him without even a freight of coals to the East Neuk. He was a fine type of a Scottish sailor, one with little to say, but who knew and did his duty. He lost his eyesight, and was likewise a martyr to one of the most terrible of maladies, but, as he said, he held by an anchor that never slipped in the gale.

FIFE BOATS IN GALE. DISASTROUS LOSS OF NETS.

This has been a disastrous week at sea, notably with the Buckhaven fleet fishing at Shields. One skipper telegraphs, ” This is one of the blackest days that ever befell Buckhaven. We’ve lost thirty nets, but let us be thankful, others have lost all.” The gale, indeed, was so terrific that seven or eight crews despaired of life till they came to anchor in the Weir. So far as advices are to hand the loss in gear cannot be less than £1200, and comin,’, as it does, on the back of so many misfortunes it will bring only too many to the verge of ruin. The gale was encountered in all its fury by the Cellardyke boats on their way the north, in consequence of which one and all were glad to flee for shelter, in some cases with the loss of sails and spars. As a rule, however, the Fife crews were busy getting their boats and nets ready for the coming venture. The weather was not inviting. “So intensely cold, cried the visitor, shivering in the bleak wind, while at every turn of the street there were the hardy sons of St Peter toiling away with busy fingers, so as to knit the yarn the raip. Being usually in double file the streets had animated look strangely in contrast to what it will be a week or two hence, when these manly faces will be so many leagues afar at sea. But these preparations are never stirring as at the launch of the big boat How strangers came to gaze and wonder, as this and that gallant craft was hoisted on the wheels, and drawn with the same ease as child pulls its toy from the green to the slip, where the traction engine being out of the way, the wire rope of second on the opposite pier sends it dancing like the plaything of a giant on the bosom of the sunny tide. In this way the outfit has sped so well that many, if not most, of the fleet between Cellardyke and St Monance, are expected to sail on Monday. Owing to the gales little or nothing has been done either with the jig or haddock lines this week in the Forth. The Fife boats are returning on every tide from the Irish coast. It has been lost errand, i.e., as compared with the doings in the North Sea. Not so the advices from Shetland, where one day Skipper Pratt landed 100 crans at a haul. His townsman the skipper of the Thistle with one or two others fished their complement, and sailed to the Scottish main. There is a tacit engagement between a number of Fife skippers and merchants in the north, but the price will not be fixed till the boats arrive the station. Mr W. H. Dickson lectured Friday night in Cellardyke Town Hall on “Storm Warnings. ” The address, which was under the auspices of the Meteorological Society, was an interesting resume of the teachings of science, but this busy night the attendance could not be other than disappointing.

The preparations for the great fishing harvest of the year are now well advanced, and boats are sailing with every tide. The east wind in not a few cases has interfered with the arrangements. It is a singular fact that of late years the supply has exceeded the demand, and not a few of our skippers have sent a remittance along with the usual intimations to well-tried hands. On this occasion the number of boats will be fewer than usual. The outfit between Cellardyke and St Monans is 353 boats, which will rendezvous between Stonehaven and Balta. Four years ago the Fraserburgh merchants sailed to Yarmouth in autumn to engage our skippers on the spot at £1 the cran, with £40 to £60 of bounty. These golden days have come and gone, and engagements are not even talked of though not a few have come to an understanding to deliver their herrings at the price of the day as fixed by the auction bell. So far, however, as appearances go, our fishermen have every encouragement to look hopefully forward to the herring sea. Large shoals are hovering on the banks, and boat atter boat is tacking in with a tidy haul. The prices at Anstruther are 12s a cran.

1889

George Dick, son of John Dick, East Forth Street, Cellardyke, has secured the prize of £1 for essay on the Sabbath in connection with the welfare of youth scheme for the Free Church.

Sunday School Excursion

On Wednesday the annual excursion of the Established Church Sunday School of Cellardyke took place. There was a large attendance of scholars and parents from all denominations in addition to the regular scholars. The party were conveyed to Cambo in upwards of 30 carts, and it is estimated that there were present in the perish at one time nearly 1000 people. The weather was delightful, and a very enjoyable day was spent by all. The usual compliments were paid to Sir Thomas Erskine for his kindness.

The Anstruther district is follows : —Cellardyke, 185 boats; St Monans, 90, being the same as at Buckhaven ; Pittenweem, 69. Largo, like St Andrews, has 13, being, with boat here and there as at Crail, 465 in all. This is not a gain, we have so often to record, but a falling off compared with last year

THE HERRING DRAVE. THE RAVAGES OF THE DOGFISH. Little nothing has been done this week in consequence of the gales at sea. It was blowing so hard at the Isles that the boats bore up for Brassy. There was the same stern experience at Eyemouth, but on this side most of the fleet got under weigh, so that the drave is now fairly opened to north and south. Shetland, on which so many hopes were built, is dreary failure. One skipper writes :—” We are fortunate with hundred crans, but, like our neighbours, our drift is sadly crippled the dogfish. On all sides you are told by the luckless folk that it was the misfortune of their lives to come here. We were engaged in the middle of the month, but we were thankful to get leave to take on board our dunnage in the middle of the week.” So it was all round, where it was no rare incident to fill the boats to the gunwale though the greybeards tell you that the pest has seldom if ever been so universal as today. No one can tell the secret of their coming and going. There was time at Peterhead when a couple of thousands had been taken over night by a Cellardyke crew. It was rare sport for rising to a herring light. They were tossed by the ugly black dorsal into the boat without given time, eel like as they are, to strike the fingers. One autumn when the was ringing with the cry, “the herrings in the haiks,” they appeared in such numbers as to brush away the strong lint like spider’s web. At another time they appeared in the Firth when 500 were taken in ten nets in the offing of the Billowness. Their ravages are confined to no single fishing or period of the year. A Cellardyke crew once had 400 haddocks with every fish more less bitten by this greedy pest indeed, “a guid dougfish an’ a flounder ” was said of to be poor man’s feast. There is the same tale the Cornish coast, where 20,000 were once taken in a single net. Nevertheless, they are never so destructive today, as the curious spines in front of the dorsal cut or tear the light cotton like so many knives. They are eaten and dried in the Orkneys, but as a rule they are only so much manure on the East Coast. At the foot of the Vennel the other day it was said one veteran—”Cellardyke, sir, is puirer by £3000 wi’ Shetland, what wi’ torn nets and the loss o’ the June fishing.” In consequence, we said, of the gales the fishing is little else than a blank on the East Coast, but all opinions agree that the outlook has not been so hopeful for years. There is also whisper that an understanding is being come to about the price, though not a few Fife skippers prefer to sell by an agent or salesman from day to day. The prospects continue as encouraging as ever at the entrance of the Forth. From 100 to 500 herrings are being jigged near the May in a single night, and several baskets were likewise fished by the net in the same teeming waters. Once and again our skippers were induced the-signs to make trial to tack for the north.

1880

THE LATE ACCIDENT AT SEA. — The subscriptions for the widows and families of the Cellardyke fishermen who lately perished at sea now amount to about £150, which, by the resolution of the relief committee, are being distributed in the proportion of 2s to each widow and 1s to each child unable to make any provision for its own support. We understand that according to this scale the sum in hand will suffice for the next three years, but kind friends, it is hoped, wilt yet strengthen the fund.

SALE OF PROPERTY

We understand that the half of the twin-house in Rodger Street, now in course of completion by Mr Thomas Brown, has just been sold to Mr John Watson (Lyall) for the price of £320. These houses are models what fisher homes ought to be, with every convenience required to indurate and store away the fishing gear. Area and garden are also attached, and every twin house is so far self-contained for four families, they, at the present rate of interest, afford most inviting facilities for ” every man being his own landlord.” The dry and airy locality likewise contrasts most favourably with the damp and closely built lower part of the town; and it is not surprising to those who know the spirit and self-reliance of the fishermen of Cellardyke, to be told that very extensive building operations are expected to progress here in the course of another season.

Fatal Result of an Accident. -The son of Mr Alexander Watson (Murray), Cellardyke, who had his head severely injured by the fall of a mast on Wednesday fortnight, succumbed to the effects of his injuries on Sabbath morning. He was a lad of fine promise, an only son, and had all but entered on his 19th year.

THE HALF-DEALSMEN.

There have been times when the manning of the herring fleet, like the manning of the royal ships, has entailed no end of sacrifice and trouble; but it is far otherwise today with the cry of little work and less wages all over the country.  About eleven hundred men are needed to assist the mariners of the coast from St Monance to Cellardyke, and the ” berths” are already so well filled up that scores have had to turn away to begin the search elsewhere, after a long and weary journey, in which perhaps the last shilling was exhausted. We may almost conclude, in fact, that this is no exceptional circumstance. Any one may see at the railway station and omnibus stand how pocket after pocket has been turned out with doubtful and uneasy glances over the result in order to settle the fare, and with the exchequer in this forlorn situation at the end of a fruitless errand, what, of course, can the poor strangers do; but betake themselves as many are nightly doing to the nearest cart shed or outhouse, or even to the open fields, for the bed which misfortune will not refuse to the penniless traveller. Our half-dealsmen flow into us from many channels. Some were busy but yesterday, with the stone-breaker’s hammer, or the builder’s barrow. Others, as you can guess from their pallid faces, have just risen from the shoemaker’s stool, or the tailor’s board, or mayhap have to-day emerged from the dark galleries of the coal or iron mine in the hope that like his boat mate from the steam factory, may draw “health and wealth” from the silver sea. These, however, are but specks scarcely seen in the picture as compared with the men from the Western Highlands and the Isles- Duncan, or Sandy, or Donald, who have just quitted the ” sheiling ‘ on the hillside with the double object of repairing the past and bridging the future – that is to be able on his return to face the factor and buy the few necessaries which in addition to the “potatoes and salt” are needed round the pent fire in the course of the winter. As a rule, however, they are big, well-knit men, with all the native courtesy of the Celt, and at the same time with his deep and inborn reverence for the venerable truths of religion, and as to their fitness and conduct, it is enough to say that not a few have sailed in the same boat or under the same skipper, not for one, but for several consecutive seasons.

1881

Mr James Seaton Hairdresser Begs to intimate to the inhabitants of Cellardyke and surrounding districts, that he has opened those premises, 22 James Street, Cellardyke as a shaving and haircutting saloon, and hopes by strict attention to business to merit a share of the public support.

All kinds of Ladies Work done on the shortest notice. Combings &c,. made into plaits. Gentlemen waited upon at their own residences. All orders shall receive prompt attention.

Business hours from 8am till 8pm, Saturdays 8 till 10

Razors Ground and set.

Grangemouth,

Smart Capture of a Land Shark

Yesterday afternoon William Spice, about 25 years age, said to belong to Sittingbourne, England, was examined before Sheriff Bell, and committed to prison pending inquiries regarding his antecedents, on charge of having, on Tuesday night, stolen from the fishing smack Paine, of Cellardyke, Fife, about, £18 in money, the property of hie employer, the master of the vessel. The smack, in charge of the owner and crew, was homeward bound from thin Irish herring fishing, and lay to at Grangemouth. About nine o’clock Spice left the smack, telling his master he was going to post a letter and would be on board in minutes. A couple of hours elapsed, when the owner of the vessel, going to his cabin, discovered that his trunk had been broken open and about £18 in gold and silver stolen therefrom. Information lodged with Sergeant Ballingall, who instantly commenced a search in Grangemouth and vicinity for the young Englishman, who, up to this time, failed to return from the post office. Finding no trace of him, information was dispatched to Falkirk, the sergeant himself starting for Bo’ness in search of the man. In course of the morning he discovered the Englishman fast asleep in a coffee house in that town, and on his person the whole of the stolen money, minus 7d. The officer deserves credit for his promptitude and success. Spice, who is unknown to the police, has only been in employment of the owner of the smack for the last few weeks.

1882

A number of spirited young men in Anstruther and Cellardyke have organised themselves into a cricket club, in connection with which this delightful game is being played with much enthusiasm. It is a search for pleasure under many difficulties, but the Anstruther players meet on the Billowness. Their Cellardyke friends, however, are so fortunate as to have the verge of the beautiful field beyond the golden strand, for which they are indebted to the kindness and courtesy of Mr Clark, the esteemed factor on the lands of Kilrenny, who in this considerate act has set an example which cannot be too well commended, especially when we reflect that not a single facility for outdoor recreation is open to our young men. Hence the concourse that is so often -and we had almost said unavoidably -to be met with at the corner of our thoroughfares.

On Wednesday, Mr Yool, depute county procurator-fiscal, arrived in Anstruther and took a precognition of witnesses in a case of alleged fraud and wilful imposition. It appears that a man named Robert Tyrel, a sailor, called at the shop of Treasurer Duncan and obtained a guernsey and a Balmoral bonnet, stating that he would go to his skipper and get the money to pay for them. He did not return. The same is man is alleged to have gone into the shop of Mr David Lumsden, watchmaker, and asked to see some gold keeper rings, stating that he washed to give one to his sweetheart. He selected one, and while looking at it gradually edged near the door. He then stated something about going to get the money, but Mr Lumsden said he must leave the ring until it was paid for. The man then bolted, and as there was no assistant in the shop at the time he got away. Information was lodged with the police, and the same day Constable Martin apprehended the man in Cellardyke, who at once gave up the ring, and as Mr Lumsden declined to prosecute, he was liberated. The man, however, was wanted for similar tricks at Pittenweem and St Monance, and the following day he was tracked by Constable Anderson, Pittenweem, and apprehended in Kingsbarns.

The fleet this season includes the finest and largest boats ever fitted out from the East of Fife. Amongst these being notably the dashing clipper Ruby, which was launched the other day by Councillor Jarvis to the order of the old Cellardyke skipper, Mr David Wilson. For the last thirty years boat-building has been carried on with no greater enterprise on the East coast than at the Brae of Anstruther; but the Ruby is beyond question the queen of the fleet. She is longer by a foot than any other built here, her dimensions being – length, 55; beam, 18; and depth of hold, 7 ½ feet; but, in addition to this, she also challenges attention by the fineness and symmetry of her mould. Councillor Jarvis has also contracted, not for a boat, but a regular deep-sea going smack to the order of another Cellardyke skipper, Mr Robt. Cunningham.

TO FISHERMEN AND FISHCURERS. HERRING NETS !! HERRING NETS !! !

Sharp and Murray, NET MANUFACTURERS. CELLARDYKE, have always a supply of Nets—made from Wadkin & King’s Prize Medal Yarn—Barked thoroughly and ready for Backrope or with Backrope, either string or boltrope, all of Best Material and Workmanship. Usual discount. | Cellardyke, 28th June, 1882.

1883

LIFEBOAT INSTITUTION—REWARDS.

An award of £7 has been granted to James Smith, Cellardyke, and his crew, for saving the lives of five persons from the boat Jessie, of Lerwick, which was, during stormy weather, in danger off Moussa on the 14th April last.

1884

A fisher lad of Cellardyke, John Henderson, was placed at the bar of East Anstruther Bailie Court on Friday, charged with being riotous and disorderly while in drink, to the fear and alarm of the neighbours on the previous Saturday night. He pleaded guilty; but in respect of a previous conviction, he was fined, after a pointed reprimand by the presiding Magistrate, Bailie Darsie, in 15s

1905

The wife of a fisherman residing in Rodger Street, Cellardyke, gave birth to triplets, all sons, on Tuesday, but the children only survived an hour.

PARISH CHURCH—RECENT GUILD COMPETITION. —Five girls belonging to Rev. Mr Ray’s Junior Bible Class competed in the recent Guild examination in connection with the Church of Scotland. The results have just come to hand, from which it appeared that the girls have done better than was stated in the “Record” a few weeks ago. Not only have all the girls won certificates, but one of them has so distinguished herself as to receive a certificate of merit. The names of the girls are: — Certificate of Merit – Maggie Muir, 67 ½ per cent. Pass Certificates—Jemima Corstorphine 61 per cent; Maggie Gardner 58 ½ per cent; Betsy McLeod 52 per cent; and Lizzy Bett 42 per cent.

1906

The accounts of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Gas Company for the year have been published, and show a record year. Nearly eleven million cubic feet of gas was sold. and brought in an income of £2065 5s 6d, the net profit for the year being £669 17s 6d. A dividend of 5 per cent. is recommended.

Advert

SUMMER GOODS. Straw HATS and Chiffon HATS. A big Stock of these small Fancy TOQUES. The very newest in Fancy BLOUSES in Delaines, Prints, and Silk.

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SERIOUS ACCIDENT. – An accident attended with very serious consequences took place last Thursday afternoon in one of the backyards off James Street. Mrs John Fleming was engaged in hanging out some fishing nets belonging to her husband on the gallows, which are so prominent a feature of Cellardyke gardens, when the rung of the ladder on which she was standing broke, and she was precipitated to the ground. Her cry as she fell brought a neighbour to the scene, and Mrs Fleming was found lying huddled up between the wall and the gallows, quite unconscious. She was taken indoors and medical assistance speedily procured, when her injuries were found to consist of a severely fractured skull and dislocation of the shoulder bone. Although a week since the unfortunate accident. Mrs Fleming’s condition is still highly precarious.

1907

A new steam drifter was launched at Port Gordon last Saturday, to the order of Skipper Henry Bett, Cellardyke, and christened the Alices by a daughter of the owner. The Alices is to be towed to Dundee to engined by Messrs Cooper and Greig.

Price of Nets Raised. —The net manufacturers have just intimated to the merchants that the price of herring nets has been raised by one-third. The action is understood to be owing to the enhanced price of cotton, and the increasingly heavy demands of the cotton spinners. This increase seriously affects the Scottish and English herring fishermen. It adds 10s to the price of each net, or £30 per boats’s float, and will mean an additional yearly tax of thousands of pounds, and proportionately affect English fishermen. The steam drifters will be severely hit.

SAD FATALITY ON THE RAILWAY NEAR KILRENNY. —The community and district has been singularly immune from railway accidents of any description for a good number of years, but the spell was broken on Saturday, when a rumour, which, unfortunately, ultimately became substantiated, was circulated early in the forenoon that a man had been killed on the railway near Kilrenny. The goods train which leaves Anstruther about nine o’clock, while travelling between what are known as the Commontry and the Cornceres Bridges, at the westmost portion of Innergellie Woods, met with some obstruction, and the driver, on arriving at Crail, reported the fact. On examining his engine, he was horrified to discover of blood on the wheels, with other evidences of the obstruction having been a human body. Intelligence of the affair was immediately telephoned to the station at Anstruther whence ambulance aid was sent to the spot at which the accident had occurred, Dr Wilson and the police being also in attendance, but on the body being retched, life was found to be extinct. The back of the head was severely battered, while one of the legs was broken, and the right-hand cut, but the features were untouched and perfectly recognisable, a fact which, on the body being taken to Anstruther Goods Station, rendered identification easy. The relatives of the deceased identified him as Robert Murray, fifty years of age, fisherman, George Street, Cellardyke. There was nothing to show how the accident really occurred, but it is surmised that deceased, who had been lately very much worried on account of some family matters, had been stalking along the line in a preoccupied state of mind when he was overtaken by the train, with the above fatal consequences. Appearances also go to show that after being knocked down by the engine, he had been dragged along underneath for a considerable distance, as his knife, tobacco, and pipe, were found lying a point about thirty yards further back, from where the body was found lying. When he left home in the morning it is mutated that he was wearing a watch, with a gold chain, but, on the recovery of his body, only the minute hand, and the broken glass of the watch was found in the pocket of his vest. Deceased, of a quiet, frank nature, was generally well-liked and respected by his fellow fishermen. The drifter Rob the Renter, of the crew of which he was a member, arrived at Anstruther from Aberdeen on Monday afternoon flying a flag at half mast, out of respect to the memory of deceased. Much sympathy has been expressed by the community, over which quite a gloom was cast on Saturday, for his sorrowing family and friends.

1908

Three small boys from Cellardyke were brought before Sheriff Armour at Cupar on Tuesday, charged with maliciously throwing stones at and breaking a quantity of glass at the vinery at Croma House. They all pleaded guilty. The Fiscal said this was one of the worst pieces of mischief that had come under his notice. The affair was very deliberate and destructive. The Sheriff said he had great difficulty in refraining from sending the oldest boy to be birched, but as his father had already punished him, he would let him off this time. The other boys were too young for that punishment.

1909

MUSICAL EXAMINATION. In the list of passes of the Trinity College Examinations, held in Edinburgh, appears the names of Miss Alice Black, James Street, Cellardyke; and Miss Nellie Davidson, Rustic Place, Anstruther. In the preparatory examination in pianoforte playing. These candidates were prepared and entered for the examination by Miss M. J. Anderson, West Anstruther.

1900

Pittenweem

Cyclists Collide. — On Saturday afternoon, while two cyclists named Dick and Myles, belonging to Cellardyke, were cycling through West Viewforth, another cyclist, said to be a farmer, was coming east. Myles and the farmer came into collision, the former being bruised on the hands and legs, while both machines were rendered unfit for present use. The case is likely to be more heard of yet.

David Ross, fish hawker, Cellardyke, was charged with having on Saturday, 16th instant, in the lodging house in Card’s Wynd, occupied by Mrs Mayes, committed a breach of the peace by cursing and swearing, making a great noise, and challenging one of the male lodgers to fight. He pled guilty. The Fiscal said the police heard the noise in another street while on duty, and on going to Card’s Wynd they saw a large crowd outside the lodging house. On going inside the lodging-house accused was found with his coat off, challenging one of the male lodgers to fight. He was cautioned and warned to leave. Accused—l sold them a few fish that week, and I went up there to see about it. I am in the wrong. I had some drink in me, and when I have drink I am rather quarrelsome, but when sober nobody can say I interfere with them. I hope you will be lenient. The Provost—You have 8 previous convictions against you. You say you had drink, but that is no excuse, and the community is not to suffer because you take drink. You will be fined 15s or 14 days. I hope that as this conviction makes the ninth in your case, you will try and reform and not come back here again.

1901

Sudden Death. —On returning home from church on Sunday afternoon, Mr Andrew Ireland, Cellardyke, suddenly expired. He was in his 88th year. He was a joiner to trade, and had been in business for more than 60 years in Cellardyke.

A FIFE ACTION. DAMAGES ASSESSED AT £20.- Sheriff Armour, Cupar, yesterday issued judgment the slander action for £100 raised by Mrs Paton, Blacklaws, Anstruther, with the consent and concurrence of John Paton, jun., farmer, Blacklaws, against Wm. Smith, fisherman, residing at Cellardyke. His Lordship finds it proved the occasion forth in the record the defender slandered the pursuer falsely and maliciously representing that her eldest son was born before marriage. He finds in law that the pursuer is entitled to £20 damages, with expenses.

RESIGNATION or PROVOST THOMSON – At the end of last week, Provost Thomson sent in his resignation as a Councillor and Provost of the burgh of Kilrenny to the Town Clerks. It is understood that the reason of the resignation is the motion carried at the Town Council meeting last week in regard to the dispute relating to the memorial service held in Cellardyke Church for the late Queen Victoria. The majority of the Council apparently held that the parish minister was not asked by the Council to preside, and the Provost argued that as the arrangements for the service were made at a Council meeting, and it was understood that Mr Anderson was to preside, it was equivalent to the Council asking him to do so. The subject was sprung upon the Council at the close of the ordinary business, and led to some lively talk. Bailie Williamson was officially informed of the resignation on Friday by the Town Clerks, no step has as yet been taken in regard to it. The resignation has to lie three weeks before it can be accepted, and any move made to fill the vacancy. Provost Thomson has occupied the civic chair since the summer of 1897, succeeding the late Provost Martin. During his reign several very important schemes have been inaugurated and are still being carried through.

1902

Three Cellardyke boats which have been fishing for the past four weeks on the Donegal coast, arrived home on Saturday. The season was a very poor one, the stormy weather preventing them frequently getting to sea. The earnings were about £50, and the prices sometimes want up to £3 per cran for the herrings, which were of splendid quality. The rest of the Cellardyke boats are to remain for three or four weeks yet in the hope that better weather will enable them to secure more herrings.

On Monday afternoon Mr Miller launched deep sea fishing boat built the order of Skippers John and Andrew Watson, Cellardyke. The extreme length was 68 ½ ft and the vessel was named the Lily by Miss Peebles, a niece of the owners. The boat has been fitted out for all branches of the fishing, and her workmanship and model has given much satisfaction.

CELLARDYKE BOAT ABHORE AT SHETLAND. — The daily papers of Saturday brought the intelligence that the Cellardyke boat Cornucopia, Skipper John Bett, went ashore on Friday on the Wand of Hildasay, while making for Scalloway harbour. There was a strong gale blowing at the time. Small boats went out from Scalloway and rescued the crew. The boat was fortunately got off in the end of the week, for on Monday a telegram was received in Anstruther by his brother, Skipper Henry Bett, to bring an anchor with his boat for the use of the Cornucopia.

1903

A SATURDAY NIGHT BRAWL. —Before all the Magistrates on Saturday. William Stophina Carrol, lodging house keeper, and Robert Keith, carter, Cellardyke, were charged with having on Saturday night, the 13th instant, in High Street, committed a breach if the peace, by using foul and disgusting language, quarrelling with each other, whereby a large crowd was collected. Both pled guilty. The Fiscal said the scene was a most disgraceful one. For about 20 minutes the men used disgusting language to each other, and the police had ultimately to separate them. They were both under the influence of drink. He knew nothing about Carrol’s history, but Keith had a bad record from 1892 on to February last when he was sentenced at Cupar to 30 days. Carrol said Keith was the aggressor, and Keith said he had nothing to say for himself. Carrol was fined 10s or 7 days, and Keith 20s or 14 days, the Magistrates stating that they were determined to put down these Saturday night brawls.

KEEPING A DOG WITLIOUT A LICENSE. – At a J.P. Court in Anstruther on Saturday morning, David Pattie, carter, Cellardyke, was charged with having on 20th March last, kept a dog without taking out a license. Accused pled guilty.

THE LATE MR STEPHEN WILLIAMSON. In the parish churchyard of Thornton Hough, Wirral, the remains of Mr Stephen Williamson, citizen and philanthropist, of the firm of Balfour, Williamson, and Co., of Liverpool, were reverently interred on Saturday afternoon. Many friends from Liverpool attended to pay their tribute of respect. ……. the bells in Chalmers Memorial Church, Anstruther, and in Cellardyke Town Hall were tolled for an hour, while on the different public buildings, and on the liners in the harbours, the flags were flying half-mast. In the Chalmers Memorial Church on Sunday morning, a memorial service was conducted by the Rev. A. G. MacAlpine. The pulpit was draped in black relieved by a strip of purple……

1904

The Clerk submitted the letters which have already been published from Mr Arch. Williamson, Liverpool, offering to present a granite ornamental fountain 10 to 12 feet square, and 14 to 16 feet high as a memorial of his late father. Mr Williamson had since forwarded the following letter: Liverpool, 8th June 1904. Dear Sir, -I duly received your letter of 26th May, and I am gratified to learn that your Council are willing to accept a memorial fountain to be placed upon the site named. I have been waiting to hear farther from you as to the acquiescence of the Harbour Commissioners, who, I note, are also interested in the site. As soon as you can let me know what decision they have arrived at, I shall be obliged if you will inform me. I shall communicate with the architect as to providing a water trough for horses, and this shall be done if it is possible to do so without interfering with the elegance of the design. If there is any difficulty on this score, perhaps an oblong trough could be provided at the side of the pavement near the Cross. —Yours faithfully, Arch. Williamson

Mr Oliphant said he supposed they would only be too glad to give permission for the fountain being erected on their ground. The Chairman said the statement ought to be corrected that not Anstruther but Cellardyke was Mr Williamson’s native place. In the tablet in Cellardyke Town Hall it was stated that Cellardyke was his native town. Mr Oliphant —That’s where amalgamation comes in. (Laughter.) Mr Darsie—Do you think that Mr Williamson means Cellardyke, and that the fountain should be erected there? (Laughter.) The Chairman—Oh no, but this mistake should be rectified. The fountain at the Cross was erected as a memorial of the late Queen Victoria’s jubilee, and I cannot see why you should take it away, and have another erected for quite a different purpose. Mr Bonthron—But the feuars who gave it have given permission for its removal. The Chairman—Still, the fact remains that it was put up as a memorial to Queen Victoria, and Mr Williamson’s fountain could be put elsewhere, the best place being in the Folly opposite Mr Walker’s shop. To remove the present fountain to the east end of Shore Street would be dangerous to traffic as there was not sufficient room at that part for it. Mr Oliphant—If Mr Williamson desires to get this site at the top of the west pier for an ornamental fountain I think we should grant it. The Williamson’ family have done a great deal for Anstruther and Cellardyke, and he was favourable to this site being granted. Mr Bonthron agreed, and said in his opinion this was the only place for it. Mr Darsie said a 12 feet base for the fountain would take up a great deal of room, double the present fountain took up. He would rather have it there than opposite Mr Walker’s shop where it would be surrounded with boxes and barrels in the winter time. Mr Bonthron— The fountain will be a great ornament to the town, and we cannot help it not being given to Cellardyke. (Laughter.) We may send you the present fountain, Provost. The Chairman— We don’t want it in Cellardyke.

It was agreed to give every facility to the fountain being erected, but to insist on the plan being sent to the Board for inspection and approval.

The news came to hand yesterday of the death of Mr George Fowler, late of Cellardyke, at Evansville, America. Mr Fowler was for many years a very successful fishermen, and gave up the fishing a good number of years ago going out, with some of the other members of his family to his son, who has built up a very prosperous business in America. Mr Fowler was in his 80th year, and many friends in Cellardyke will learn with regret of his demise. He was a man of a very quiet disposition, and always held in great respect.

1895

DEATH OF AN AGRICULTURIST. Mr David Edie farmer, Cornceres, one of the best-known agriculturists of Fife, died very suddenly this morning on the public road between Kilrenny and Anstruther. He was walking  to Anstruther when he fell down. He was carried unconscious into Cellardyke Manse, where he expired. Mr Edie took an active part in parish affairs, was chairman for the Kilrenny School and Parochial Boards, and was lately appointed chairman to the Parish Council.

SHOEMAKERS (Any Number) WANTED. To meet the increasing demand for the K Y. SEA BOOTS, the Manufacturer opened a Branch WORKSHOP, at 52 James Street, Cellardyke. Shoemakers wishing Employment might apply there by MONDAY, or to the manufacturer, Wm. SMITH, Leather Merchant, Colinsburgh.

1896

A court case that takes up a full column and a half  here’s a few snippets

At a Burgh Court at Anstruther on Monday —before Bailie Morton – Thomas Dunsire, publican, East Shore, was charged with having on the 18th May, between the hours of five and seven in the morning, trafficked or give out by others for whom he is responsible, to James Barclay, fisherman, Cellardyke, one half mutch-in bottle containing whisky or other excisable liquors This was said also to be the second offence. Dunsire, who was defended by Mr Grosset, Cupar, pled not guilty. …………….. Evidence was led, the first witness being James Barclay, fisherman, Cellardyke, who deponed that he was on the East Brae opposite or near Mr Dunsire’s public house on the 18th of May. He saw and spoke to Mr Dunsire. He had a little conversation with Mr Dunsire but not much. He gave Dunsire nothing at that time. No money passed between them. He left and went east to the urinal. Dunsire shortly after joined him there. Dunsire did not give him anything. He did not get a bottle containing whisky or ether excisable liquors from Dunsire. He left Dunsire there and went down the east pier to his craft. He saw and spoke to the constables on the pier. He did not take anything or a bottle from his pocket or jacket and and throw it over the pier. He never had a bottle. He did not make the observation to the constables that they would not get it there.

Sergeant Anderson said he was on duty on the 18th May between the hours of 5 and 7 in the morning. He saw the liner Chancellor come into the harbour, and watched the crew coming up the pier. About 20 minutes to six he saw Barclay come up the pier, and on passing Dunsire’s public house he looked up. He went to the end of the middle pier, and on coming back he was met by Dunsire opposite his public house. He saw Barclay give Dunsire something, and Constable Wright made the remark—He is handing him money. Barclay went on to the urinal, and he was joined there shortly after by Dunsire, and put his hand into his pocket, pulled out a bottle, and handed it to Barclay. Barclay then went down the pier, and when within 15 or 20 yards of the liner he called on him to stop. Barclay turned round, and threw the bottle of whisky over the pier, remarking that you will not get that at any rate.

Cross-examined by Mr Grosset —What was in the bottle ?—lt was the colour of whisky and it had the appearance of whisky. That is no answer to my question, what was in the bottle ?—I never tasked the contents of the bottle. But – you say it was whisky: How do you know ?- I say it had the colour of whisky. But how do you know it was whisky ?–By the colour and appearance of the contents. I did not taste the contents. I never hadthe chance of doing so. But you cannot tell whether it was whisky or not ?—I can only say it had the appearance and the colour of whisky.

After another  three or four hundred words of the same type of argument – Bailie Morton decided the case was not proven.

Several Cellardyke crews have been for weeks at Lowestoft, and the highest has not yet got £20. The theorists are telling that a change of wind is required ; a northerly breeze would in their opinion send in the shoals, and though one can take this idea for what it is worth, the skippers mean to hold on for a time yet, and give the venture a fair trial.

John Montador, second mate on board the ship Forthbank, a native of Cellardyke, died from yellow fever at Santos on 22d April last; (The Montadors later named their house in West Forth Street, NO 32 I think,  in Memory of their son)

1897

THE LATE PROVOST MARTIN OF KILRENNY.

On the morning of Jubilee Day, Provost Martin of Kilrenny, died at his residence at St Ayles Crescent, Anstruther, in his 76th year, and a gloom was met over the rejoicings of the day in the community. The Provost had been failing for some time back, and been confined to his room for the last five weeks. He gradually grew worse at the end of last week, and on Sunday it was seen that the end was near. He lingered on until Tuesday morning, when he slipped away. A pathetic incident connected with his death is the fact that he was looking forward to his only daughter, Mrs Bruce, coming in from South Africa, to pay him a visit, but unfortunately he has been taken away before Mrs Bruce could arrive. Had he lived he would have celebrated his golden wedding at the end of August, and it is betraying no secret now to state that it was the intention of his fellow-townsmen, whom he has served so long and faithfully, to present him then with a suitable token of their appreciation and respect for him. His demise has also put an end to this.

Mr Martin was a native of Cellardyke, and he has been one the prominent figures in that community for at least 50 years. He served his apprenticeship to the drapery trade with the late Provost Greig, Anstruther, and while he was comparatively a young man he set up business for himself in his native town. He soon established a successful business in 1844 he extended by beginning to manufacture different kinds of fishing material. The latter grew so much on his hands that he felt compelled to give up the drapery business, and stick entirely to his manufacturing concern. He disposed of his drapery shop to Mr, now Bailie, Thomson, in 1866, and from then on to a few years ago, successfully carried on his manufactures, which he developed to a large extent. He had an extensive connection with the north of Scotland and many fishing centres. His business enterprise was soon recognised, and he was led at a very early age to interest himself in his native place.

It was as far back as 1846 that he was chosen by his fellow-townsmen to be a manager of the burgh in conjunction with the late Mr Fowler and others. The burgh was at that time disfranchised, and had been in that position for mere than twenty years. That he soon established himself a favourite is shown in the fact that he was called to the office of Chief Manager in the Burgh, an office he held off and on for nearly 20 years. During all that time he was ever foremost at in the endeavours made to advance the interests of the burgh. He was the leading spirit in trying to get a harbour erected at Craignoon, and spared no end of trouble to accomplish this desirable object. But the expense was too great, and the project had to be abandoned in favour of the Union harbour at Anstruther. In 1868 the burgh was again raised to its full municipal status, and out of 19 candidates at the first election of a Town Council he, along with the late Bailie Sharp, was returned at the top of the poll. He was unanimously chosen Provost in December of that year, and continued to be the Chief Magistrate to his death, with the exception of two terms, when the chair was filled by Provost Watson and the late Provost Skinner. What he has done for the burgh since 1868 is too well known to be recapitulated here. but through all these years he never spared trouble, time, nor expense to further schemes and projects for the welfare and prosperity of the town. He made himself thoroughly acquainted with all questions he took up, and despite a somewhat brusque manner occasionally, he retained the confidence of his colleagues, by all of whom he was heartily supported. In his public life he set a splendid example to his fellow men to take a share in the work of the community in which they reside. But Provost Martin did not confine himself solely to the public life of the community, and fulfil his part on different public boards, the Parochial and School Boards especially, but he was equally at home, if not more so, in religious and philanthropic work. In this connection he has been a great moral force in Cellardyke. Through his instrumentality he got erected in 1860 a hall at the east end of Cellardyke for religious meetings, many of which he conducted himself. The Hall soon became too small, and he set about the erection of a larger place and one which would be more central. In this he succeeded, and early in the seventies, the present Forth Street Hall was put up. Here he superintended a large Sunday School and Bible-class every Sunday for many years and the great good he accomplished in this respect is almost incalculable. He was an enthusiastic Free churchman, and very soon after the Disruption was made au elder in Anstruther Church. He was a faithful attender at the meetings of Presbytery and Assembly, and did much to promote the prosperity of the denomination in the locality. The Provost never interfered much in politics, but he leaned to the Liberal side, and always entertained great respect for Mr Gladstone. His death is a great loss to the community in which he watt so much interested, and for whose moral and social prosperity he did so much. The funeral to-day is to be a public one, and will doubtless be largely attended. Out of respect for his memory the bunting on Cellardyke Town Hall on Tuesday was hoisted half-mast high, and his death has caused a general expression of regret in Cellardyke  and district.

1898

CELLARDYKE – THE SCARLET FEVER.–All the recent cases of scarlet fever are now convalescent, but yesterday a fresh case occurred in School Road, in a family of seven. The epidemic is of a mild type.

1899

In the East of Fife Record’s version of the Echo – they reported from the Pittenweem Register of 1849

EXTRAORDINARY BIRTH. -On Wednesday the 9th instant, Agnes Boyter, wife of James Robertson, fisherman, Cellardyke, was safely delivered of three children—all daughters.

The work of repairing the piers of Cellardyke harbour is to be begun next week by Bailie Williamson.

THE Public School.–Dr Dunn on Monday and Tuesday inspected Cellardyke School. There was a large attendance of the pupils, and the inspection is expected to turn out a very successful one

1890

Parochial Board at a special meeting of this Board on Friday night, on the motion of Provost Martin, seconded by Skipper Thomas Birrell, Mr Edie, Cornceres, was unanimously elected the representative of the Board to this District Committee of the County Council.

SUDDEN DEATH OF SKIPPER WATSON. — On Saturday evening Skipper John Watson, of the “Margaret Taylor,” was seized with illness at the tea-table. He rapidly grew worse, and passed away in the course of a few minutes. He had been afflicted for some time with disorder of the heart. Skipper Watson, who was 55 years of age, leaves a grown-up family. It will be remembered that at the election of 1885 in the burghs Watson was personated by some unknown person at the polling booth in Cellardyke.

ANSTRUTHER HARBOUR COMMISSION—Appeals for remission of dues.

The June meeting of this Board was held on Monday night—Provost Darsie in the chair. The treasurer submitted a vidimus of the revenue of the harbour for the month ending the 17^th ult. In consequence of the growing usage amongst the North Sea crews of seeking a market elsewhere, it was reported that the revenue only amounted to £38 6s 6 ½d being a decrease of £7 3s 9 ½d, as compared with the corresponding period last year. The petition of Skipper James Smith for the remission of the lying-up rate of the “Good Design,” on account of the boat being detained in the harbour by the illness of the crew. was considered, and it was agreed to remit the dues. An application, revealing a peculiar state of affairs, from Messrs Robert Watson & Co., Cellardyke, was also considered. The boat ” Day Star” was held in pledge by the firm, who found that, instead of being an asset for a large debt, it was not worth the sum owing for anchorage (£18). They sold the boat to a party in Leith for £7 10s, and this sum the firm now asked the Board to accept in full of the claim. On the motion of Bailie Sharp, the offer was accepted ; and a second application, by the same firm, was to the effect that on the boat “James and Agnes,” belonging to Alexander Ogilvie, who had left the East of Fife, the dues amounted to £2o – one half the sum of which she was bought by Skipper Joseph Walker. They enclosed a cheque for the amount, which, as in the case of the “Day Star,” it was agreed to accept.

1891

Attendance at School report by Truant Officer James Jack.

…In the case of Cellardyke Public School There is a roll of 256.. What about the case of John Muir, playing truant everyday for a whole twelvemonth. He is undoing what I am trying to do, to stop truanting. (Laughter) He has got it in his head that the Board is powerless, and is letting his fellows know. The case of May A Wilson also for a whole year out of school, and others day in and day out. He had mentioned these things in order that the board might try to remedy it for another year. (laughter). Great complaints from the teachers.

The Chairman – I am afraid we will have to censure the officer if he lectures us like that (laughter).

On the roll of Cellardyke School were 25, and the average attendances were 235,239,242 and 241. The Chairman – I don’t see the teacher has any cause for complaint there. At the infant school 256 on the roll with 208,212,208 and 208 in average attendance…

The officer was instructed to do his utmost to keep the children at school after the inspection until the holidays. It was resolved to procure an attendance order against John Muir, and to insist upon his going back to school, and attending regularly. The Clerk was instructed to write to four other parents stating that unless their children were kept regularly at school they would be prosecuted.

1892

CELLARDYKE. Boys Brigade

This Brigade held their first excursion for the season on Saturday, when they were invited to Cairnie, Colinsburgh, the residence of Captain Scott-Davidson. The Brigade, to the number of fully 70, met at their Drill hall at 9 o’clock, and under the command of Captain George Black, and accompanied by Lieutenants Watson, A. Black, and R. G. Thomson, marched to the railway station. They were taken by the train to Kilconquhar, and from the station they marched to a field in front of Cairnie House. A number of swings were set up, and ether amusements were carried on for some time, after which the company were put through their drill by the Captain by Sergeant Drill Instructor Downey of the Volunteers. Captain Scott-Davidson had, with his usual kindness, made every provision for the wants of the inner man, and the boys were liberally supplied with pies, milk, and lemonade, while the officers were entertained to lunch in the house. In the afternoon, Captain Scott-Davidson inspected the Company, and put them through several movements. The boys showed a marked improvement since the first, and the manner in which they executed several of the movements, would done credit to a company of volunteers.

1893

The partan fishing is now ended at Cellardyke, and is the poorest on record. The same may be said of the salmon fishing, which has never yielded so few fish.

John Martin Ritchie, of the crew of the Isabella, Cellardyke, had an undesirable adventure at sea on Thursday. He was engaged hauling in the lines, and bent down to lift on board a fish when, his hand slipping, he fell into the sea over the bow. His companions observed the mishap, and kept a sharp lookout for his reappearance. The current swept Ritchie under the boat, but he rose at the stern and was grasped by the skipper. Is another minute he was hauled on board, and after the exhaustion had worn away was none the worse of his immersion.

1894

CELLARDYKE. Cellardyke fishermen and the May Island.

At an inquiry at Dundee on the stranding of the steamer Jasper on the May Island on 17th April last, the following evidence was led: John Gardener (67). Cellardyke, said he had been a fisherman at Cellardyke all his days. He was out fishing on the evening of the 16th April, and got into the harbour about eleven o’clock. The weather was very foggy. He thought he was within two miles of the May Island, and although he saw no lights on the island he observed the lights on the north shore. He saw a glimmer of light on the May light about ten o’clock, but did not see it again. If the wind was from the north-east and the sea from the eastward there was a heavy top current between the Carr Lightship and the May Island. While out fishing he had experienced it many a time. That current would certainly have an effect upon a vessel in ballast. He had known of the current running a fishing boat on the May Island even in clear weather.

By Captain Wood—Witness said the fishermen had studied the Admiralty tables, but found them of no use in bad weather. Thomas Tarvit (68), fisherman, Cellardyke, and pilot at Anstruther, said at two o’clock on the morning of the 17th April he left Anstruther for the May Island, and reached it about four o’clock. When he left Anstruther he could not see the May Light, but he reached the Island by means of his compass. He heard rockets fired, but thought they came from the Lightship. Witness then corroborated previous witness as to the current ; and, in reply to one of the Assessors, he said the fog kept him from seeing the May Light. Asked if he knew any difference between the electric light and the old light on the May Island, Tarvit replied that the fishermen liked the old light best. They thought they could see the old light better through a fog. Martin Gardner (60), another Cellardyke fisherman, corroborated, and said the fishermen did not have very much faith in the May Light. His experience, was that the electric light did not pierce the fog so well as oil or gas.

1914

On Sunday forenoon the annual church parade of the local company Territorials took place to Cellardyke Parish Church. The Territorials were under the command of Lieutenant Maxwell. Lieutenant Mackintosh was on parade. The Territorials were accompanied by the local troop of Boy Scouts and by the Anstruther branch of the National Reserve. the “Terriers” looked very smart in their red tunics and tartan trews, while the Boy Scouts were a picturesque company. Rev. J. Ray, Chaplain to the Company officiated, and preached a powerful sermon from the test “A good soldier of Jesus Christ ” On returning to the Drill Hall after the service, Lieutenant Maxwell expressed hie pleasure that the parade had been attended by members of the National Reserve, while he also complimented the Boy Scouts on their smart appearance and for the manner in which they had marched.

1915

HOLIDAY RESORTS. ANSTRUTHER & CELLARDYKE.—Most Bracing Fifeshire Seaside Resort. Good Bowling Green, Tennis Courts, and Golf Course. —For further information, apply to Secretary, Merchants’ Association.

PRESENTATION TO YOUNG CELLARDYKE HERO. In presence of the Town Council, David Black (15), son of Mr George Black, baker, Cellardyke, was presented with silver watch from the Carnegie Trust, Hero Fund and the parchment of the Royal Humane Society for saving, on 21st April, rescued nine-year-old lad from drowning. Provost Black, uncle of the lad, presided, and Mr Hugh H. Souter, depute town clerk, made the presentation.

ANSTRUTHER. More Local Soldiers Wounded, Further details are now to hand regarding the fighting in France on the 24th instant, in which our local men took part. Unfortunately, the casualties are heavier than was at first reported. Private Robb, who was stated to be seriously wounded, has succumbed to his injuries, and his fellow soldiers will deeply regret his loss. Private Alex. Boyter, son of Mr Thomas Boyter (Smith), Cellardyke, was seriously wounded in the head and face, and now lies in an hospital in Birmingham. The other local casualties are that of Private Adam Lowrie, also of Cellardyke, whose wounds, however, are not regarded as serious, and Lance-Corporal Anderson, son of Mr Alex. Anderson, baker, who was hit in the head.

Off to the East.—The crews of the drifters Camperdown, Lily, Maggie, and Andrewina left last night. It is understood that the destination of these craft is the Mediterranean, “somewhere west of Suez.”

1916

DANDELION IN WAR TIME The gathering of sphagnum moss for the manufacture of dressings for the wounded has been patriotically undertaken by many school children and others, says a correspondent. Sphagnum moss is not to found in every district, but it would seem that an exceedingly common plant that of special value in war time could easily collected in huge quantities those who are able to spare even a few minutes for the work now and then. This is the dandelion. In Cellardyke the school children have gathered a large quantity of dandelion roots, and these, after being cleaned at the school, will sent to an Edinburgh chemical establishment to be used in preparing dressings for the wounded. If the dandelion is of value for this purpose, it should not be difficult to provide an almost unlimited supply. It would appear that all along the dandelion has been treated with unmerited contempt in this country. In France the leaves are commonly eaten in salads, and form cheap and exceedingly wholesome addition to the food supply, especially during the hot days of summer. Under its other name of taraxacum, the dandelion has played and still plays its part in medicine. It is very old remedy for dyspepsia when associated with torpidity of the liver. The milky juice of the flowed stalks was often prescribed as sovereign remedy for warts. The word dandelion itself corruption the French “dent de lion,’’ lion’s tooth—an allusion to the shape of the leaves. Nathaniel Paterson, D.D.. in his genial work on horticulture. has some notes the dandelion which are evidently “wrote sarcastic.’’ He concludes by advising the amateur horticulturist to “leave no piece of ground without first scrutinising every inch for this delicate salad herb order that its roots may carefully gathered and stored—in the bottom of the dunghill!”

CELLARDYKE STOKER ON INVINCIBLE IS BELIEVED TO BE AMONG THE LOST. James A. Moncrieff, son of the late Mr David Moncrieff, fisherman, and John Gardiner, Forth Street, Cellardyke, was stoker on board the Invincible. In reply to a telegram of inquiry, the Admiralty stated it was to be feared Moncrieff was among the lost, his name not being included in the list of survivors. Moncrieff was among the first to join the colours shortly after war broke out, and was engaged in the naval battle off the Falkland Islands. was home on leave a month ago. Previous to enlisting he was engineer on a trawler. He was 22 years of age, and his stepfather, Mr John Gardiner, is on patrol service. His brother, David, is in the Flying Corps in France.

1917

WEDDING AT NOTTING HILL June 2nd ab Sb John’s Church Notting Hill very pretty wedding was celebrated by the vicar. The bridegroom David Doig Pratt Lieutenant Highland Light Infantry second son of late Alexander Pratt Cellardyke Scotland to Minnie Elizabeth youngest daughter of Thoman Hayman of Devon and 61 Wallingford Avenue North Kensington W.

The bride (one of the company of the light opera “Young England”) wore a dainty dress of cream crepe-de-Chine trimmed with orange blossom wreath and veil and carried sheaf of lilies; she was attended by four bridesmaids. Lieutenant W E Ward acted as best man The presents were numerous. The reception was held at the bride’s home in Kensington after which the happy pair departed en-route for the honeymoon.

1918

Prisoners of war

Pte. Alex. Stevenson, Black Watch, Cellardyke; also wounded in the arm.

1919

FLOATING MINES IN THE NORTH SEA

Cellardyke skippers of drifters returned from the fishing grounds at the end of the week to report the presence of large number of floating mines in the North Sea. As many as five were seen by the crew of the drifter Maggie, which caused the skipper to alter his course.

 Honours won on the Field of Battle

DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDAL. ……….. 290604 Pte. J. Birrell, 14th. Bn. Royal Highlanders, T.F. (Cellardyke);

1910

It is now eight weeks since the district was plunged into grief over the disaster which befell the yawl “Morning Star,” which sunk off Cellardyke harbour on the evening of 30th March last, taking with her four of her crew of 6ve. It will be remembered that the skipper’s body and that of the younger Hughes were recovered with grappling irons the day following the accident, while the body of the elder Hughes was brought up by a diver a few days later. The widespread grief then expressed was re-echoed when it became known that, after a lapse of eight weeks, the remaining body that of William Muir (17), had been washed ashore at Methil. It appears that, on Monday morning, while three men were on their way in a small rowing boat from Methil dock to the hand-line fishing, and when about two hundred yards from the outer head of the fairway leading to the dock, they observed the body of a man floating at some distance from them. Rowing toward it they passed a rope round it, and brought the body to the wooden jetty at the dock. The police were informed, and Sergeant Clydesdale along with Constable Moyes, proceeded to the dock and examined the body, which from the nature of the clothing appeared to have been that of a fisherman. It was suggested that the body might be that of one of the victims of the disaster, and the relatives being communicated with, they proceed to the mortuary at Methilhill cemetery, where they had no difficulty in identifying the body as that of William Muir. The body was taken in charge by the relatives and brought back to Pittenweem. It is understood that the funeral is to take place tomorrow, Friday, to Kilrenny churchyard.

The disaster, it may be recalled, took place off Cellardyke, one quiet evening when the yawl suddenly foundered under the heavy draught of herring. One man succeeded in swimming ashore, his companions sank.

Local, drifter in collision off St Abbs Head

Thick fog prevailed at sea at an early hour on Tuesday morning, and the navigation of vessels was very much hampered on this account. The drifter Glencona of South Shields, which has been hired by a Cellardyke crew under skipper Alexander Wood for the ensuing herring fishing, was on her way from Shields to Anstruther to eat on board the gear, etc. The vessel had reached off St Abbs Head when a large trading steamer, which turned out to be the Dwina, of Leith, crashed into them, striking the Glencona with considerable force on the starboard bow, smashing the upper part of the stem and the planking. Fortunately the damage was above the water line, and the Glencona steamed for Anstruther, arriving in the early morning. The Dwina was apparently undamaged and proceeded on her voyage. The drifter has been surveyed, and will have to be repaired before she leaves for the fishing.

1911

DAVIDSON & CO. James Street. CELLARDYKE. We have received another Delivery of SEMITRIMMRD HATS, suitable for the Term. TRIMMED and UNTRIMMED HATS. A Nice Assortment of CORSETS. Try our 1s 11 1/2d For Strength and Durability nothing to beat them. SERVANTS’ CAPS and APRONS. BLOUSES and UNDERCLOTHING. DRESS GOODS and PRINTS. Gent’s CAPS, TIES, MUFFLERS, and BRACES. BOYS’ and YOUTHS’ SUITS. DAVIDSON & CO.

Failing To Obey and Attendance Order

At a Burgh Police Court on Saturday Provost Morris and Bailie McConnell presiding James Blunsden, cleekmaker, was charged with having failed to obey an attendance order granted 10th June 1910 for the attendance of his sister-in-law, Dora Wood, aged 13, at Cellardyke School. The respondent pleaded guilty. Mr D. Murray, solicitor, who appeared for the School Board, pointed out the irregular attendance of the girl both before and since the granting of the order. Respondent, in extenuation, said that the illness his wife and his inability to pay for outside help to do his housework, was the cause of the girl’s absence. Provost Morris, in pronouncing sentence, pointed out that what accused had said was no excuse, and the Bench were very lenient with him in letting him off with 7s 6d of fine, seven days, and 20s modified expenses. Accused asked for time to pay the fine, and was allowed one month.

1912

On Sunday forenoon, the local company of Territorials, under the command of Captain Murray, held their usual annual church parade to Cellardyke Parish church. There was a fair muster of men, who presented a very smart appearance in their scarlet tunics, tartan trews, and spats. Rev. Mr Ray officiated, and preached an appropriate sermon from the text Romans 12th chapter and 5th verse “So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.”

1913

It was reported that the recent examination conducted by Captain Harvey, of Board of Trade for fishermen attending the navigation classes Cellardyke and Monans, thirty had qualified, and of that number the following had passed: —Extra skippers, two; skippers, fourteen; second hands, eight.

A BRILLIANT BUSINESS CAREER.

We have received a copy of the Binghamton Press of May 2nd which contains a page account of the 32nd anniversary of the firm of Messrs Fowler, Dick, and Walker. It is illustrated by photographs of the large new premises erected, and of the head of the firm, Mr George Fowler, a native of Cellardyke. Mr Fowler Is a son of the late Mr George Fowler, fisherman, and a cousin of Mr R. A. Fowler, grocer, Cellardyke. He sorted his apprenticeship with the firm of Sharp and Murray, General Merchants, Cellardyke, atter which he emigrated to the United States, where he has been very successful. The following extract from the Binghamton Press will doubtless interest a considerable number of our readers in Cellardyke, many of whom will remember Mr Fowler, and who will welcome the details of his successful business:

“The opening of the new Boston Store last evening was a triumph. For four hours thousands of men women and children trooped through the three entrances thronged the wide aisles and feasted their eyes on the magnificent spectacle that had been prepared in honour of the event. The store is the fruition of a lifetime of vigorous effort. The assemblage of people was a tribute to one of the men who have made Binghamton—George Fowler. Every employee of the great establishment shared in the honors of the evening. from the newest “bundle boy” to the men who, under Mr Fowler, bear the brunt of the active management—Archibald Whitelaw and Archibald MacArthur.

From Wilkesbarre came William MacWiiliam in former years manager of the Binghamton store, and now of the firm in the coal city, and with him was his associate there, Mr Burnside. They too, shared in the congratulations that were showered on the men whose energy and and sagacity have made the Boston Store the magnificent success that it is today.

32 YEARS OF GROWTH.

 The firm of Fowler, Dick & Walker founded their Binghamton wore 32 years ago, locating next to the corner of Court and Chenango streets. Beginning with very small capital and with only six clerks, but with a vast amount of pluck, perseverance, energy, good judgment and executive capacity, the members of this firm, gradually, but surely, broadened their scheme of operation, until they bad built a substantial foundation for their present extensive business. The firm remained only a year at the Court Street stand, removing to Washington Street, where the establishment served a constant, growing patronage for 18 years, each year to some extent enlarging their lines of stock.

During the last 18 years the store at Court and Water streets has been the seat of an enormous volume of business. New departments have, from time to time, been added and old ones extended to fill the demands made by the city’s growth and the Boston Store’s constantly growing patronage.

Last June Mr Fowler decided to make the large addition just completed, to improve all departments and general system under which the business is conducted. New ideas have from time to time, during the process of the work, been considered and evolved all helping to give the store its present metropolitan character and magnitude. Always ready to listen to the suggestions of his employees and to act upon them whenever they seemed practical, Mr Fowler has been able to keep alive the interests of his responsible assistants, and with their help to work out many improvements in the various departments in an incredibly short time.

Probably one of the most Important elements in the success of Fowler, Dick & Walker has been their readiness to engage their employees to profit by the firm’s prosperity. It is a common occurrence for a worthy employee to rise from the rank’ of clerkship to a responsible and remunerative position The helpers are always considered when improvements are made to the firm’s buildings or brought about in the arrangements of departments, or in the methods of operation. In consequence of this practice there is a spirit of mutual interest which benefits employers and employees, while it helps the growth of business.

1914

CELLARDYKE. TIMELY ASSISTANCE —While playing about the Shore at the east end of the Town on Friday, a young lad Mason, son of Mr Mason, Kilrenny Mill, fell into the sea, and was swept seawards for some distance when his plight was observed by Mr Thomas Watson, a cooper in the employment of Messrs Melville & Son. Mr Watson immediately jumped into the water and got a grip of the lad. The rescuer experienced considerable difficulty in landing. but with further assistance both were pulled ashore in a rather exhausted condition. But for Mr Watson’s plucky rescue, there is no doubt Mason would have been drowned.

Few people seem to be aware of the fact that Mr David Allan, shipbuilder, Granton, took in the building and working of what I consider were really the first. successful steam drifters that operated on the Scottish coast. In the year 1878 that gentleman built and equipped two very tidy steamers, purposely for the prosecution of the herring fishing. During the fishing season of that year both of those crafts fished at Aberdeen, and were engaged to work at that port for the whole season. They were named the Forward and the Onward. The former fished for the firm of Messrs James Methuen and Co. of Leith, and the latter for Messrs Sharp and Murray, Cellardyke. For a number of years the Onward continued to fish at Aberdeen for the Cellardyke firm. Those crafts appeared at Aberdeen four years before steam trawling was commenced at that port, and there is little doubt but what they were the first steam fishing craft that operated there.

1875

In an article about the History of Sewing Machines.

…Nor is the Kingdom Fife behind in the march of progress; it can boast in the East Neuk a Blake Sewing eight of which only are used in Scotland. Do not be astonished, or become incredulous, when I tell you it can sole 200 pairs of boots in a day! I don’t know if Leslie is as far famed for bootmakers as Markinch is for cabbage, but if our friends the shoemakers are not up and at it, Cellardyke, for that’s where the Blake Machine is used, will cause them blush.

Cellardyke Police Commission – This board met on Monday, but the chief matter up was the appointment of a scavenger, Donald Ross, at one time connected with the Lanarkshire Police force, but for some years resident as a day labourer in the locality, being chosen at a wage of 20s a week. The duties are of a miscellaneous nature, bat the wages give a significant illustration of the rising nature of labour in the neighbourhood, the pay of the scavenger and lamplighter having exactly doubled of late years.

(Scavenger being the street cleaner, which in those days would also have to deal with slops, horse manure and sewerage type waste on the streets)

1876

Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners Royal Benevolent Society

…The Committee having heard through their honorary agents that the towns of Cellardyke and St. Monance, in Fifeshire, had lost in one blow 37 of the flower of their sea-going men, leaving 19 women widows and 72 children orphans, and that a local fund was being raised to help these destitute ones, resolved to head the list of contributions with £150.

TO FARMERS. OFFERS are WANTED for the LIME as it comes from the Purifiers of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Gas Company’s Works, for the year from 1st July 1876 to 30th June 1877.

Offers to state the Price per ton, and to be lodged with John Adamson, the Manager, on or before 15th June next.

ESTIMATES WANTED for the MASON, JOINER, PLASTER, PLUMBER, and SLATER WORK of a HOUSE and SHOP to be built in Cellardyke. Plans and Specifications are in the hands of Mr John BROWN, Cunzie House. Anstruther. with whom Estimates must be lodged on or before 8th June. The lowest or any Offer may not be accepted.

EAST OF FIFE MUTUAL INSURANCE BOAT CLUB. THE Directors are prepared to receive PROPOSALS for Policies. Applications to be made to Mr George Sharp Merchant, Cellardyke, Secretary and Treasurer.

Extraordinary Large Take of Fish.

The Largest capture of fish for this season has been landed at Anstruther Harbour, and was secured by the crew of Skipper James Brunton, belonging to Cellardyke, who had been at the deep-sea fishing. The catch comprised 54 saithe, 39 ling, 101 halibut, 130 skate and 600 cod; total 925 fish all in prime condition. The Halibut alone sold for £39 and the whale catch realised the goodly sum of £63 (approx. £7,745 today)

1877

DERELICT FOUND BY FIFE FISHERMEN. The week before last some of the Cellardyke fishermen noticed a waterlogged vessel of Norwegian build in the North Sea, but the distance from land was so great that no attempt was made to secure the derelict, which was being stripped of her materials by French fishermen. Last week, however, she had drifted to about seventy miles from the May Island, the crews of two of the boats took her tow, and succeeded bringing her into Anstruther harbour on Friday. The schooner herself is only fit for breaking up, but she has a large and valuable cargo of fir staves, which are being landed for the purpose of being sold by public roup. As the stern of the derelict is completely gone, her name cannot be ascertained.

FATAL BURNING ACCIDENT. —On Friday last, a little girl two and a half years of age, granddaughter of and residing with George Anderson, ploughman, Tolbooth Road, was playing with another child about the fireside when a pot full of boiling water lying on the hearthstone by some means was overturned. The poor girl fell among the water, and was so severely scalded that although every remedy was applied, she died next day after twenty hours’ intense suffering.

Our obituary_ this week records the death of Mr Andrew Keay, late of the Customs Office here. Mr Keay, who was a native of Cellardyke, was laid aside from duty last November, and since that time has suffered greatly from cancer in the stomach, from which he died on Wednesday. The deceased, who was in hit sixty-sixth year, was appointed to the Customs in 1833, and after acting hero for 16 years, occupied similar positions in Leith and in Wales, subsequently returning to Anstruther in 1866. He was invariably a zealous and faithful servant, and in the execution of his duty travelled the district in all kinds of weather, which many younger men would have delayed until the conditions were more favourable. Mr Keay, who was altogether 38 years in the Customs, was superannuated only in February last. He leaves a widow and a grown-up family, one of his sons being in business in Constantinople.

1878

John o’ Groats Journal

At the opening of a bazaar in Anstruther, for the establishment a new church at Cellardyke the Rev. Dr Phin, who received a cordial greeting, said—l am very much gratified by the remarks which have been made by excellent friend Professor Christie, and it gives me extreme pleasure to be here to-day in compliance with his request. I may mention that recollections of Cellardyke are not of yesterday. In my early life I lived in the house of my father, who was minister of Wick, and as far back as my memory stretches Cellardyke fishermen were in the habit of coming down to Wick to prosecute the herring fishery. I recollect of their attendance at father’s church, and I have pleasure in mentioning the good conduct they displayed in the midst of the other fishermen.

1879

Shetland – All the South Country boats have now left here except the two Cellardyke boats which have been remarkably fortunate all through the season.