Author: cellaradmin

Cellardyke Echo this week,, Sam Bough’s visit produced a couple of paintings of Cellardyke which i’d love to see, one of these paintings was turned into the well known etching above ( sometimes the etching image is attributed to Sam Bough, but the way these things worked was that the skilled etchers would copy the paintings and then sell the etchings and therefore the correct attribituon is as below)

1870

OPENING OF THE NEW HALL, CELLARDYKE.THE NEW FREE CHURCH HALL, CELLARDYKE, will be OPENED (D.V.) the Evening of SABBATH, the 17th inst., when the Rev. D. M’COLL, of the Bridgegate Church, Glasgow, will conduct the Services. Public worship will commence at a Quarter past Six o’clock.A Collection in aid of the Building Fund will be made at the Door, which it is hoped will be liberal.

1871

FISHING BOAT AND MATERIAL FOR SALE. To be Sold by Public Roup, at the House of JAMES GARDNER, Cellardyke, on SATURDAY the 15th July, at two o’clock p.m.,THE Decked BOAT “CHARM,” K.Y. 151, 44 feet long, 6 years old, with 2 Fore- Sails, 2 Fore-Masts, Jib, 2 mizzen-Sails, 1 Mizzen-Mast, 2 Booms, Spanker, 3 Chains, 3 Anchors, Riding Ropes, 8 Oars, 3 Boat Hooks, &c .Also, Upward 30 Barked nets, 4 or 5 White Do. with Pallets, Bladders, Corks, &c.Also, a quantity of corks, suitable for Yarmouth Fishing.NOTE. – The above Nets are all mended and barked, and ready for use.The Sale will commence with the Boat at Anstruther Harbour. Mr BONTHRON. Auctioneer.

1872

Cellardyke.Good Templar Festivities. – Last week was a blythesome and memorable one with the hardy fishers of the East Neuk in connection with this remarkable movement, which the meantime is drawing all hands and hearts to the temperance flag. On Friday last the ”Lifeboat” Lodge of St Monance, with a gallant crew of over 400-young and old-had a grand festive trip to “Keil’s Den” They took the rail so far as Largo, and it was an interesting sight to see so many stalwart sons of Neptune, with the buxom sisters of the brave old fisher town, strolling or sitting amongst the fragrant trees and flowers, and otherwise enjoying themselves amongst the sweet sylvan shades of this favourite retreat; and, altogether, the pleasures of the day seemed quite in harmony with the fanciful remark of the sentimental old tailor, who, when accosted by a neighbour, “Weel, Robert, hoo hae ye gotten on the day?, and .” enthusiastically replied, “Oh grand man – jist anither picture to hang up an’ mak’ the chamber wall o memory bricht forever”On the evening the “Guiding Star” lodge of this place celebrated its first anniversary by a fine procession of flags and music through the streets of Cellardyke and Anstruther, and thereafter by a festive meeting in the Free Church hall, which in both cases came in with overflowing success. The meeting was presided over by Brother Brown, W.C., who spoke in his usual earnestness and point; and the Rev Mr Grant of the Baptist Church; and Mr Patterson, the elect pastor of the E.U. Church, also occupied the platform great acceptance – the address of the latter being an ably-sustained allegory, after the manner of Bunyan’s Holy War, on the influence of drink as an enemy of the temporal and spiritual welfare of man. But “the speech of the evening” to use a familiar phrase, and in saying so we know we will be excused for any seeming invidiousness, was by one of our fishermen, Brother William Stewart who gave some revelations of his former career, in which he, as it were, lifted the curtain from that saddest type of wreck and misery, a drunkards home, and contrasted it with the ringing songs and mirth of the dram-shop, where, as one in the delirium of madness, the poor abandoned drunkard was ready to sacrifice day and night, all that was sweet and beautiful in life – heeding as little as the voice of the wind the sob of a broken hearted wife, or the cry for bread and mercy of famishing children – which he described with a graphic force and pathos that melted every heart. We would gladly have given a fuller report; but this, as in all kindred appeals, the words, however strong and touching were less eloquent than the emotion of the speaker, who closed his address amidst a deafening round of applause. The excellent young secretary, Mr Alex. Black, submitted some interesting statistics, from which it appeared there were at present 240 members of the lodge but the initiations had amounted to 290. The difference in these numbers was traced to a few defections from the cause, but mainly to the admission of fishermen from the north country, who, though they had left their “mother lodge” had on their return home, it had been gratifying to know, been pioneers of temperance; and in this way Cellardyke had been the parent of a strong promising lodge in a far distant part of the Sottish coast. The meeting was largely attended and the Proceedings were appreciated by all present.

1873

The Herring Fleet of 1873. —According to the preparations now so actively begun, the present season will see the largest herring, fleet ever sent afloat from the East of Fife. Cellardyke promises to contribute about 175 of the finest and largest boats to the Scottish herring squadron, and Pittenweem can muster over 50, while St Monance, that true spirit of progress which distinguishes her, soon will be able, if required, to send 105—making a total for the three stations of 335 first-class boats.

Artists in the East of Fife.—There are present many as five artists —including the distinguished landscape painter, Mr Samuel Bough, of Edinburgh—sketching various points of interest in the East of Fife. The favourite subject with all seems to be the romantic sea shore, where the busy fisher craft may be everywhere seen speeding along with dark, brown wings ; but the memorable and picturesque, wherever it may exist in the neighbourhood, is likely to have more or less of the attention of these interesting visitors.T

he Cost of a Boat Stance.–The old shipbuilding ground the beach Anstruther harbour was let by public auction, for wintering boats, on Saturday evening, when the six stances realised £3 each. This may appear a high price to give for the small area required to lay down a boat, especially when the boat stances at Cellardyke Green are to be had for some six or seven shillings but even rent of 60s the Anstruther stances are preferred, as, besides other advantages, the fishermen there save the cost of shifting with the engines, for which over a pound now charged, and another when the boat is beached or launched.

1874

ArbroathThere were launched yesterday from the boatbuilding yard of George Leslie, Old Shorehead, two fine, large carvel-built fishing boats, each 45 feet long, 16 feet broad, and about 7 feet deep. They are the first built here by Mr Leslie, though some of similar style have been built the late Shipbuilding Company. They are both sold, one to Mr John Doig, Cellardyke, and the other to Mr Thomas Webster, Broughty Ferry. The launching was effected by means of the steam-tug drawing them over the quay, there being yet no slip for the purpose. The whole was accomplished in safety.

1926

BUS COMPLAINTS IN CUPAR COURT. For allowing a ‘bus to overcrowded, Alexander ‘Cuthbert, motor driver, 22 Shore Street. Anstruther, was fined Cupar Sheriff Court yesterday. Thomas Gardner, Harbour Head Garage, Anstruther, was charged with having left the stance at St Andrews with a motor ‘bus at 4.18 p.m. instead of 3.30 p.m. or 5 p.m., contrary to the Omnibus Byelaws for the county.  He was also charged with having failed to have the number of the ‘bus and the name of the licensing authority painted in conspicuous position on the ‘bus. His plea of not guilty was tendered on the first charge and of guilty on the second. Both charges will be dealt with on June. Alex. Hodge, Shore Terrace, Cellardyke, was fined 10s for acting as conductor of a ‘bus without being licensed for the purpose.

1927

In Cupar Sheriff Court Tuesday, before Sheriff Dudley Stuart, Charles Graham Smith, farm manager. Cuplahills, Balmullo, admitted a charge of having, on the St Andrews – Anstruther public highway, driven a motor car in a reckless manner, and collided with a motor cycle driven by Duncan McIntyre, shop manager, 13 George Street. Cellardyke. R. N, Robertson, solicitor, Cupar, said the windscreen accused car was obscured, and when was going slowly round a bend, came upon some ducks crossing the road. As the ducks were slow, he swerved over to pass behind them, and a motor cyclist came round the bend, and went over to the other side to avoid him. Accused also swerved, and the two collided. The Sheriff, imposing fine of £2, said it all went to show that a motorist should never to his wrong side, even to avoid ducks. (Laughter.)

1928

New Company

Robert Watson & Co Ltd – 11 George Street Cellardyke. Capital £15 000, in 10 000 preference and 5000 ordinary shares of £1 each. Private Co to acquire the business of waterproof manufacturers carried on by Robert Watson & co at Cellardyke, and Newburgh, Fife. Subscribers. David Mitchell waterproof manufacturer, Glendower Anstruther and R Watson waterproof manufacturer Brackness Anstruther.

1931

Making Our Fishermen’s Gear

THE MODERN WAY OF HOW FIFE LASSIES OBTAIN THEIR GRACE :

THE WONDERS OF “CARSTAIRSES’ FACTORY.” By Mrs A. R. Rowlands, Cellardyke.

” What big balloons, mummy !” shrieks the city child as he points an excited finger at the huge globes crowning a lorry load of fishing gear which was being driven down to the boats in preparation for the drave,” or summer herring fishing. Those gaily painted spheres which often cause much speculation among towns folk paying their first visit to a fishing port, are the “pallets” floats, buoys, or “cows,” as they are called in some districts, used for supporting the drift nets, and also for indicating the location of the nets in the water. To our grandfathers, those well finished, easily handled, and indispensable items of a fisherman’s equipment were unknown. The pallets of a past generation were made not of foiled canvas, like those of to-day, but of sheepskins. The wool having been first removed, the pelts were soaked in lime water for period of fourteen days, being thus thoroughly cleansed. The hides were then dried the sun before subjection to a further few days’ “steeping” in strong solution of salt and water. After a second drying in the sun, the skins were cut in circular shape in readiness to receive a good coating of tar on both outer and inner surfaces. This operation rendered them strictly water and air tight.

The Old Way

After a visit to one of the best equipped and most modern of our pallet making factories, I not unnaturally inquired from an experienced old fisherman, “How did you fill the ‘ bows ‘ before the invention of compressed air machines?”

“Blew them up wi’ oor breath,” was the laconic rejoinder.

“You would need- good pair of lungs,” I retorted, sensing fun at my expense.

“Weel, ye see !” continued the pawky old salt, tilting his cap, while he scratched his ” pow ” reflectively. “If ye didna hae enough wind, ye taen the bellowses.”

The pioneer of the canvas pallet was the late Provost Black, Cellardyke, whose factory “wast the toon ” has, within recent years, been acquired by Messrs A. & W. Myles. The large modern erection of John Martin & Co., Ltd., in Cellardyke is known throughout the East Neuk o” Fife as “Carstairses’ Factory.”

The large and extensive premises erected within recent years at the top of the Urquhart Wynd are devoted not only to the manufacture of fishing gear, such as pallets, but also to the making of fishermen’s oilskins; that is, their heavy coats, “sou-westers,” and frocks.” The last-mentioned are these chemise-shaped garments which cover their wearers from the neck to well below the knee.

 Let it not be supposed that only useful, unromantic “oilskins” are made in this factory. In the warehouses and showrooms hang hundreds of the daintiest and most delicately coloured silk oilskin coats, fit wear for the fairest ladies in the land.

When Tar Was Scarce

Near the huge- entrance gates the hum and babble of many girlish voices greet us. Entering the large yard, we pass wide open doors through which the summer air enters.

On our way we catch glimpse of youthful forms swaying, and busy arms moving to and fro as their owners tend to their machines. There is no need to wonder whence Anstruther lassies obtain their graceful figures and erect carriage. Our observation tells us that their day’s work provides all the necessary figure forming and “slimming exercises.

Two or three pairs of bright eyes smile at us, and several rows of white teeth flash a greeting as their possessors revert once more to their tasks. The modern pallets have been for many years made of oiled canvas. The divisions, shaped like a quarter of an orange, are firmly sewn together with strong thread before the article is handed over to the oilers.

Before the war, oiling of “pallets” was unknown, tarring being the uniform process During the war-time, owing to the scarcity of tar, oiling was adopted, and this method having proved more satisfactory has been retained.

The pallets are first turned wrong side out and completely and carefully oiled inside, after which they are hung in the drying shed to dry. After a further coating of oil and a second drying thev are turned to their right side ready for the broding machine.

Coloured Buoys

The ” brod or board is that circular piece of wood which fits like a lid exactly into the opening of the pallet. The rim of the ” brod is firmly lashed to the pallet with strong twine by the broding machine.

On the ” brod ” is a strong handle through which passes the hole for the rope which binds the float of the net and bored through the ” brod ” is also a small round aperture for the insertion of the air-plug.

The finished or ” broded ” pallet, having now been removed from the broding machine, a coating of oil is given to the outer surface. A further time is spent the drying-room before final coat is bestowed. T

he pallet is now ready to receive its ” top-dressing ” of paint; a special group of girls being detailed off for this branch of the work.

Many years ago Scottish fishermen preferred an all-black buoy; English buyers were the first to use the pure white pallet, which, since its introduction, has become first favourite in the fishing world. Preference for the white buoy is due to its visibility in the pitch blackness of a starless night.

It is quite common, however, to see gaily painted pallets—red, blue, and even green—clustered like huge balloons beside fishermen’s gear. Buoys in olden times were uniformly round in shape. With the development of the canvas float, they became orange shaped.

Recently, however, the pear-shaped pallet has been copied from those used by Dutch and German fishermen.

The Air Plugs

The buoys, all painted and ready for sale pendant in a very flabby condition in the factory stock room, present quite different appearance from those inflated globes which will in due time float the nets.

We have’ already noticed in the “brod” or lid that tiny round hole for the reception of the air plug, which forms a small but indispensable part of the pallet.

A tiny cone-shaped article is this plug, made of stout white cord wrapped with tow. While examining the neat little accessory, our attention is drawn to the machine used in its manufacture.

We are shown a cord drawn taut between two clamps of a machine beside which is a bundle of tow and a jar of tar. The girl in charge seats herself and sets the machine in motion; taking a few strands of the tow, she weaves them deftly at the right hand end of the cord, which is now revolving rapidly, at the same time coating them liberally with the tar, which is used not only to bind the strands together, but also render the plugs strictly waterproof.

By means of a few strokes of a peculiarly shaped knife, the machinist forms the plug, drawing the thickness from right to left, thus obtaining the cone shape.

When the exact shape and size is obtained, the worker immediately adds further strands of tow for the formation of another plug, and so on until the complete length of cord has been used. The line of plugs is then detached from the machine and is neatly clipped asunder into its several sections ready for use.

The Hot Plate

We now turn aside to where at long tables, and with hard brushes, girls are oiling pieces of canvas which, by their shape, we know to be fisher men’s overalls.

Later we notice the finished garments hanging in the store room; we have seen others like them covered with herring scales, enveloping their owners as they trudged up the pier on a cold morning during the “winter herring.”

In another department, a long steel topped table arrests our attention; we touch it gingerly amid amused smiles from the onlookers; it is hot, in fact, too hot for our comfort.

This, we are informed, is the hot plate; its use is presently explained to us.

A web of crimson-hued oiled silk is lying near, and close at hand are buckets containing a mixture; we are told that a coating of this liquid is first applied to the oiled silk before the latter is rolled over the hot plate. In this way all stickiness is removed from the oilskin used in coat making.

Having passed through ” kilns ” or drying rooms, and visited stock rooms, wherein hang rows upon rows of pallets, fishermen’s oilskin frocks, coats, and ” sou-westers,” we come to a little room in which is a line of porcelain basins with bright nickel taps, each bearing the well-known letters ” H ” and ” C.”

Opposite the basins is row of presses or wardrobes, where the girls hang their outdoor garments. We have seen these girls at work, wearing heavy oilskin, aprons, their fingers coated and sticky with tar. We notice them later going to meals with all traces of toil removed. Here, the workers have both the means and the opportunity of making themselves clean and smart before appearing in public.

D’ye Want a Dook?

Within the nearest shed a large tank of paraffin is making its presence felt; its purpose is doubtless to remove all superfluous tar from the plugs before they are fitted into the pallet brods.

“D’ye want a dook?” queried the damsel in charge, waving her hand suggestively towards the tank and its oily and uninviting contents. There is another, and as yet unexplored territory, where woollies of every shade, size, and design are made. Many golfer on our classic Scottish links wears a pullover of intricate pattern knitted by Cellardyke lassies in “Carstairses’ Factory.”

1920

CELLARDYKE WAR MEMORIAL. At a public meeting the inhabitants of Cellardyke held on Saturday evening it was unanimously resolved to adopt the recommendation of the Memorial Committee that a monument be erected on Kilrenny Common to the fallen belonging to the parish.

The monument is to stand 23 feet high and has been designed Mr Murdoch! Kirkcaldy. Sufficient funds are in hand to erect the suggested memorial.

1921

Summer Quarters to Let

1 room, 2 beds, own key, August, G. Elder. 17 Dove Street, Cellardyke.

1922

St Andrews

MOTOR LAUNCH TRIPS. Mr Muir, Cellardyke, asked for permission to make motor launch trips and to hire from 5 to 7 rowing boats on the beach. After consideration the Town Council in Committee recommended that the necessary permission should be granted Mr Muir on payment of a sum of for the season; that the boats should be inspected by Councillor Wilson, and that Mr Muir should be allowed to put shed to hold the boats, lines, etc., at position to be approved by the Burgh Surveyor, The Council approved of the recommendations.

1923

Up-to-date Civic Enterprise – Cellardyke is becoming more popular as a health resort, and in order to make the district attractive as possible to ‘visitors the Town Council have formed themselves into a Town Improvements Committee. Incidentally the Council also have in view the reduction of the rates from the profits of their ventures.

A Badminton club formed during the winter months, proved very successful, and is “still going strong,” and the latest project is the construction of a putting green, which was formally declared open for play by Provost Mitchell. The putting green one of the largest to laid out in the district, being 18 holes in extent. Situated to the east of the “town’s green” it lies close to the edge of the beach. An exceptionally large crowd was present when Provost Mitchell, declaring the green open, said the object the Town Council had in view was one which, he thought, would appeal to all the ratepayer of the town, vis., the raising of funds for the benefit of the old burgh. (Applauses) Mrs Mitchell, wife of the Provost, played the first ball, and long line of patrons formed up for game. Two pripes—the gift of Provost Mitchell were competed for, and the green was very busy up to late hour.

1924

LOSS TO EAST NEUK COMMUNITIES. Provost Cunningham’s Public Services.

The East of Fife is poorer by the death Mr Thomas Cunningham, Provost of Anstruther Easter, which has taken place at his residence, Glenogle, suddenly. Mr Cunningham had recently recovered from a severe attack of influenza, and had resumed his daily duties. Saturday he was going about as usual, and appeared to be in good health. While dressing for church on Sunday forenoon, however, he had a sudden attack of faintness, and took to bed. Medical aid was summoned, and it was considered that the attack would pass, but about midnight he collapsed, death being due to heart failure.

Mr Cunningham will be much missed in the district, especially by his many fisherman friends. A native of Cellardyke, he was brought up in the fishing community, and he had a wide knowledge and experience of what was beneficial to the men of the sea. This knowledge was always available to all who desired it. In business Mr Cunningham had many interests. He was founder and senior partner of the firm of T. Cunningham & Sons, ship chandlers, Anstruther, and also was connected with the firm of Cunningham & Davidson, -fish salesmen, Aberdeen and Anstruther. In addition his firm did an extensive coal trade with the local steam drifters, for many of which they were managers.

Public Work.

While he was an exceptionally busy man, Mr Cunningham devoted a good lot of his time to public work. For 26 years he was a member of Anstruther Union Harbour Commissioners, and along with the Provosts of Anstruther Wester and Kilrenny was chairman ex officio. Mr Cunningham was elected a member of Anstruther Easter Town Council in May, 1915, and in December, three years later, was appointed Provost, and after the last election was unanimously re-elected to that post.

Kind-hearted and leal, many of the poorer people of the burghs will mourn his loss as a benefactor, as Mr Cunningham was always to the forefront when a helping hand was needed.

He was a Freemason, being member of Lodge Ayle (No. 95), Anstruther, but in recent years he did not take any active part in the work of the Lodge. Provost Cunningham’s chief recreations were cycling and angling. Only about a week ago he was enjoying his favourite sport at Balmonth Water Works.

Provost Cunningham was a prominent member of Chalmers Memorial Church, and was ordained an elder several years ago. Deceased, who was 64 years of age, is survived by his widow, two daughters, and one son. Another son. George, paid the supreme sacrifice while serving with the 7th Black Watch in France.

1925

Fife Workers and Employers. When we hear so much of capital versus labour it is a pleasure to put on record that there are firms in existence who have the interest of their workers at heart. It is an equal pleasure to know that there are workers who appreciate such interest, and show it in practical form.

The employees of an oilskin factory Cellardyke had their annual outing the, other day to Blairgowrie. Being desirous of advertising the firm’s production, each worker made an oilskin hat for her chum. Most were gaily coloured, and the makers allowed their fancy to rove in design. There were big hats and little hats, hats plain and hats pretty, hats novel and hats grotesque. But this was not enough to attract attention, the girls constructed umbrellas, and printed on them ” Buy your oilskins at ……………….& Co’s.” The morning was appropriate for oilskins, but the day brightened up, and the energetic lassies returned full of happy memories of a pleasant outing, and satisfied they had done their bit to bring work to their employers and themselves.

1885

Aberdeen—Accident to Two Fishermen. —Yesterday afternoon the fishing boat KY 1593 (Brunton, master) was towed into Aberdeen the Granite City tug. The boat, which had been struck a squall some distance off the land, had her foremast broken, so that she was practically disabled. By the falling of the foremast two of the crew were badly hurt, one having his arm broken, while the other had one of his legs seriously injured. The boat, which belongs to Cellardyke, was her way from that port Shetland for the prosecution the herring fishing.

This boat is Jimmy Brunton’s Jessie KY1593

For Sale, Boat “Catherine Fowler” of Cellardyke, 42 feet long, with two Foresails, and otherwise found for sea ; also quantity of superior Nets. Apply Bailie Smith, Cellardyke.

Andrew Robertson, young Cellardyke sailmaker, about nineteen years of age, pleaded guilty to street bawling in drink near Mr Morton’s bakery the other night. After a pointed warning by Bailie Darsie, he was also fined in 7s 6d.

IMPORTANT TO FISHERMEN. FOWLER’S “ANTI-FOULING PAINTS’. ‘THESE Class of PAINTS are invariably used for Ships, and Fishermen will find it to their advantage to use them, as they will prevent Destruction to the Boats’ Bottoms by Fouling. They have also the advantage of adhering to and even drying immediately on a damp surface. To be had in all colours, price 5 ½ d per lb. BLACK VARNISH, also for Boat Painting, One Shilling per gallon. ALEX, MARR’S, Grocer, Cellardyke.

SOUTERS PATENT NET HAULER, ” KING FISHER,” Is the most Powerful and complete Net handling Machine yet invented. Price, with Wheel, Guard, &c., £7 10s. Sole Agent for Fife ALEX, MARR, Cellardyke.

1886

An Aberdeen curer has engaged almost a dozen Cellardyke boats to fish at Unst, Shetland, at 12s per cran for 100 crans in June, and 16s per cran for 250 crans up to the middle of July.

Capture of a Shark. —On Saturday the Cellardyke boat James Ritchie Welch took into Anstruther a large shark, which had been caught by the great lines the deep sea. The shark measured 11ft. 6in in length, and was visited by large numbers of people. It was sold for 7s 6d to Mr Cormack, fish curer.

1887

Al the Burgh Court of East Anstruther on Saturday, all the Magistrates on the bench, the young Cellardyke fisher, Alexander Watson, was charged with a breach of the peace by using bad and insulting language, specially towards Police Constable Martin and White, while under the influence of drink on the midnight of Saturday the 14th May. He pled guilty, and was fined 7s 6d.

BOATS for SALE, 12 feet long, suitable for SHETLAND, or other purposes. Cheap. J. MILLAR, West Anstruther.

BREAD! BREAD! BREAD:

PATENT GRANULATED WHITE MEAL BREAD, made from Squire’s Patent Yeast, extracted from Malt.

We are not to present any of this bread to Doctors to assist us in getting up Testimonials, as it speaks volumes for itself. No household should be without it. Half Loaf, 2 1/2d each. To be had of JOHN MORRIS, Baker. 1 Shore Street. Cellardyke, And DAVID GUILLAN, Baker, 66 James Street, Cellardyke. Orders punctually attended to.

New Lifeboat for Anstruther. – A meeting of the Lifeboat Committee for Anstruther and Cellardyke was held on Saturday to consider an offer made by the parent institution to provide a new and more modern lifeboat for Anstruther, instead of the present Admiral Fitzroy. It was unanimously agreed to accept of the offer, and to increase the size of the shed for laying up the boat when not required. Lieutenant Beddowes made his annual inspection of the station, and with a number of fishermen exercised the boat in the Forth.

1888

The death is announced as having taken place at Langside, Glasgow, of Captain James Rodger, a native of Cellardyke, and last surviving son of the late Captain David Rodger. Like his four brothers, Captain James began life in a fishing boat, and like them also took to the ocean trade. He was long and well known as a successful captain in the American and Pacific trade. His brothers were Captain Alexander, who developed the China tea trade, Captains Thomas and Robert, who were well known and highly respected in shipping circles. After retiring from the sea, Captain James Rodger was employed for many years as ships’ husband to the famous Liverpool firm of Williamson, Milligan, & Co. A few years ago he retired to live in Glasgow, and has just passed away at the age of 84. He is survived by three daughters. The Captain took a keen interest in the affairs of the district, and was always glad to learn of the prosperity of the natives of the East of Fife.

1889

THE SAILING OF THE FIFE FLEET TO SHETLAND. This has been an eventful week in the fisher homes of Fife refitting boat and tackle for the Shetland seas. It has been especially so in Cellardyke, which is to send a hundred sail—just one-half of the herring fleet, but Pittenweem shore telling the same tale with twenty boats, and you so far get the echo at least in the five or six at St Monans’. The principle is the same in the Scottish seas— that is, the skipper with his mate, and, perhaps, another, provided with fifty to sixty nets, worked with the help say of three sturdy sons of the heather known in this way as half-dealsmen. As a rule the crews will live like “Jack Afloat ” —that is, on board the boat fitted to-day with every comfort in the way of beds, cooking, stoves, &c., and then, if it is ever to be summer at the Isles, it is when, we heard one veteran tell, ” I could see to read my big printed Testament on the deck at the turn o the nicht.” There will be two or three Fife boats all the leading points in the hundred isles, but the principal rendezvous will be the fiord like Sound of Balta, so contiguous to the herring sea, on which some crews, we observe, will drift as in the English coast—-that is, with the top of the net kept like wall with its beading of cork, while others seek the same end by stones along the foot of the lint, though in either case the nets will float within fathom or two of the surface, seeing there little fear of any collision with ships in these lonely seas. “I was sae gled tae get yer letter,” we heard a half-dealsman, springing you may have seen a St Bernard to his master, as to sail Monday, though others have yet much to do at the triangles with the tar brush that they will not be able to cross the bar the outward tack till another week. “I hope,” writes one from Mid Yell, that you will be with us as soon you can.” Bait was fished with much success at the Haaf that a big shoal is evidently not far at sea. The quality is also very fine, and, according to latest news from the Lewis few early cargoes would well the German market.

John Keith, a fish-cadger from Cellardyke, was charged with a contravention of the Police Act, having foolishly left his horse and cart in Abbey Street, while he himself went home to Cellardyke in the train. For this extraordinary conduct, John had to table five shillings, or suffer three days’ imprisonment.

1880

FOR SALE, DORKINGS— Dark and Silver Cocks and Hens, and Dark Brahmas—all of them Prize Winners; cheap. T. Thomson, CELLARDYKE.

FISH TEINDS ANSTRUTHER HARBOUR.

Nothing has been done to carry out the proposal to buy up the fish teinds, for which the Cellardyke fishermen are held to liable to Admiral Bethune as superior of Kilrenny. The price as fixed upon was £1500, but the old arrangement of holding the teinds tack from year to year is likely in present circumstances to be adhered to. No fish are landed in Cellardyke, but in virtue of an old covenant in the days of Cardinal Beaton, the obligation pay the teind follows the fishermen to Anstruther, where with this extraordinary exception it has long been a dead letter —that is, it is never asked from or paid by any other, whether neighbours or strangers.’ Anstruther boats being thus not liable, it is not unlikely but that the question at no distant day will come up for decision, as to how far Cellardyke fishermen if on board of these are liable to their laird for this old world burthen.

The Coming Herring Fishing at ANSTRUTHER. —Great hopes are already being entertained on the coast with regard to the chances of the coming drave in the Forth. In Pittenweem and Cellardyke many of the crews are so engaged as to be at liberty to choose between Aberdeen or Stonehaven or their own homes; but at St Monance some twenty thirty crews are content to rest their fortunes with their native sea. Some of these boats are accepting local engagements at such rates 20s a cran and bounty for the usual complement of 200 crans ; but, as a rule, the crews would seem to prefer the market of the day—that is, to be free to choose their own port and merchant as circumstances may decide. Several stranger crews are also to have branch stations one or other of the harbours of the districts, and if we believe the old salts wise in such matters, the appearances are such as amply to justify the active preparations which are going on by sea and shore.

The Cellardyke boats have safely returned this week from Shetland, where they are understood to have made a remunerative season, though their gross earnings have been equalled, if not more than equalled by others on the coast.

1881

Pittenweem Boat Amissing. The shore of Pittenweem is the scene of no little agitation and alarm over the unaccountable absence of one of the deep sea going boats, to wit, the Isabella and Jane, Robert Peebles master. She sailed for the fishing ground three weeks ago, but instead of returning the Forth she and the Cyprus Cellardyke found a market at Aberdeen. Both boats sailed from the Dee on Monday fortnight to resume the errand of the sea, but the violent gale which sent back the Fife boats to the Firth broke upon them. Sea and wind rose in the wild conflict, and all was hid in the darkness of the storm, but the Cyprus returned to the shore, although her crew were unable to see or hear aught of the other boat. The sequel is all doubt and mystery. Every possible inquiry has been made, but the answer has been ever the same weary and disappointing one, and hence the wild fear and misgivings which we grieve to say has settled on every heart. The boat was one of the finest of her class, but the seventh hand was not on board, being one of the two sons of the skipper, and was, it is said, detained on shore through illness.

Large Delivery of Herrings. — Yesterday morning several of the Cellardyke boats fishing for herring bait in the North Sea, were so successful that they ran to the Forth with their takes.

Perhaps also they were decided in this course by the shift of wind to the north-east, but be that as it may not a few had from five to ten crans and upwards. The best fished bore away for Newhaven and elsewhere, but others arrived at Anstruther pier. The herrings were small, about 300 in a basket, but they were in fine condition, though they only realised the nominal price of 1s per 100.

Cheap Fish Dinners.- ln the end of last week the fish supplies at Anstruther exceeded the demand for the first time this season, we had almost said the possibility of consuming them, as halibut, which the other day were esteemed a bargain at three or four shillings a stone, were now of less value than an ordinary ling or cod. They were retailed at the Cross at a penny or three halfpence a pound, but these prime dainties – as heavy as a man could conveniently carry – were bought or sold at the pier at from ninepence to one shilling or less. The consequence was that the poorest families on the coast enjoyed all the luxury of a lord in a halibut dinner on Sunday, and that to an extent, we learn, altogether unapproached in the annals of the shore.

ROUP OF CELLARDYKE BOAT STANCES. THESE BOAT STANCES will be Exposed, to LET, by Public Roup, SATURDAY, 25^th June 1881.

Roup to commence at Harbour Beach at 7 0 clock Evening. Mr BONTHRON, Auctioneer

Wanted offers to haul down those boats lying on Cellardyke towns braes. Offers to be lodged with Provost Watson on or before the 16^th instant.

1882

Two urchins, in their “teens,” to wit, James Cuthbert. West Anstruther, and Mitchell Doig, Cellardyke, were charged with quarrelling and fighting, and being convicted were sentenced to a fine of 10s, or ten days in jail.

Same story “Urchins and teens” or “fisherman and fireman”

At a Burgh Court held on Saturday, Mitchell Doig, fisherman, Cellardyke, and James Cuthbert, fireman, West Anstruther, were charged with committing a breach of the peace in Rodger Street between nine and eleven o’clock on the evening of Saturday, the 20th May, by conducting themselves in a riotous and disorderly manner and fighting with each other. Doig pleaded guilty, but Cuthbert denied the charge. After hearing the evidence, the Magistrates found the charge proven, and fined the panels 103 each, with the alternative of ten days imprisonment.

Andrew Scott, carter, Cellardyke, was found guilty of contravening the Turnpike Act, and was fined 1s, with 7s 6d expenses.

The six Cellardyke boats are now expected every day from Shetland. Like the rest of the fleet they have had indifferent success, but the local boat at the Kinsale herring fishing is understood have had a full share in prosperity.

The other evening as a young lad, named John Mitchell, was in the act of minding a cart belonging to Mr Henderson. flesher, Cellardyke, his foot slipped. Seemingly nothing could have been more casual; but it was seen that he had broken his leg, by which, apart from the suffering, he will be disabled so long from work.

Our townsman, Councillor Jarvis, has just completed two handsome fishing boats, numbers 122 and 123 respectively, in the building yard. Their tonnage and size is exactly that of old creers, in which the Men of Fife used to fish at Lerwick and Stornoway just three hundred years ago.; but, of course, their smart clipper-build forms a curious contrast to the unshapely, if well fastened, arks of the ancient fathers. Councillor Jarvis has also on hand one of the largest fishing craft ever constructed on the coast. She is about five and fifty feet long, and is at least forty tons by shipwright measurement. Her maiden cruise will be to the herring drave, but she is fitted so as to fish in all waters, where, from her beautiful lines and powerful build, we are sure she will be no laggard when the waves are dancing to the whistling breeze. She is to the order of the veteran Cellardyke skipper, Mr David Wilson, but the family, we believe, likewise share in the gallant venture. The two others are also for Cellardyke owners.

(One was for Skipper John Stewart (Stevenson). is 46 feet in length, and was named “Benevolent.’ The other was for Skipper George Moncrieff (Watson), is 47 feet in length, and was named “Endeavour.” Benevolent KY 2044, Endeavour KY2052 were launched on the 23^rd June)

1883

Shetland Times – Advert

INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES EXHIBITION, EDINBURGH. 1882, Cold Medal for Deep-Sea Nets. Silver Medal and Money Prize for Deep-Sea Fishing Lines. Diploma for Excellence of Fishermen’s Suits Oilskins. The above having been awarded to SHARP & MURRAY, CELLARDYKE, they are now making Stock to suit the Trade, with the very best material.

Nets for the Shetland Isles, mounted, barked, and ready for sea; as well Great Lines, mounted and barked in Cane Sculls or Maunds, ready to bait. Barked Cotton in skeins for mending, in all the sizes: in fact, every requisite required for the Industry, supplied at lowest possible prices.

1884

CELLARDYKE. WINDING up of the relief fund,  A special meeting of the trustees of that fund, which originated with the memorable disasters to the North Sea fleet in the spring of 1880, was held on Saturday. The sitting included the Rev. G. S. Anderson (Chairman), Treasurer Thomson, ex-Provost Watson, Mr Sharp, and Mr Brown. According to the treasurer’s report, the sum of £34 9s had been expended in the relief of the widows and orphans in the course of the year, leaving a balance on hand of £6 1s 6d, which it was agreed to allocate as follows:—Widow Andrew Muir, £3 5s.; widow Andrew Brown, £l8; the children of Andrew Fleming, 19s ; and widow Gardiner, 9s 6d. The mission of the Committee having been thus fulfilled, it was agreed to dissolve. A cordial vote of thanks was passed to the Chairman and to Treasurer Thomson for their ungrudging services in a truly labour of love. It deserves notice that previous to the report no less a sum than £190 10s 6d had been expended among the six widows and fifteen children who have been the weekly recipients of the fund from first to last.

1875

APPRENTICE WANTED to the DRAPERY it BUSINESS: Apply to PETER THOMSON, Cellardyke.

GEORGE MACKAY, CORK MANUFACTURER, beg to intimate that he has REMOVED from John Street, Cellardyke, to more Central Premises in Shore Street, Anstruther, and in thanking his numerous Customers for the support he has received. He assures them of his intention to continue sending out first-class Articles. CORK SHAVINGS for Lighting Fires, 6d par Bag.

This week, four Cellardyke boats left for the Irish coast to be engaged at the herring fishing at Howth. None of the Cellardyke fishermen have hitherto engaged in this fishing, but should these pioneers be successful, it is probable that a considerable number will make a trial on that coast next year.

CELLARDYKE. Police Commission.—At a meeting of this Board held on Monday, Donald Ross, labourer, was appointed scavenger and lamp-lighter, his wages being filed at 20s per week.

THE KILRENNY HEARSE SOCIETY.— meeting of this Society was held in the Town Hall  of Cellardyke on Friday evening to consider a remit from the committee with regard to the proposal for new hearse. George Watson, inspector, was called to the chair, and with characteristic point and expression explained the circumstances of the meeting. The recommendation of the committee that a new and serviceable hearse ought substituted for the mean and dilapidated vehicle now in use, was then submitted. Mr Skinner, merchant, Skipper Thomas Birrell, and others supported the proposal, as being one urgently called for, not only as necessary improvement but also to relieve the community from the reproach of the remains of those they loved and mourned borne to their last resting place by a rusty and tawdry carriage, like the old hearse, which was simply a scandal to the country side, and far inferior in appearance to the parish hearse of the humblest rural district. Skipper Robert Murray objected to the proposal, and emphatically hinted that the new hearse was wanted, not for the honest fisher folk of Cellardyke, but to meet the wishes of certain “Athenians,” or lovers of change, for its own sake, in and outside the parish. The feeling of the meeting, however, was with the suggestions of the committee, which were consequently approved of, and instructions given to consult with one or more carriage builders in order to ascertain the cost of a new hearse. The Kilrenny Society had its origin the exciting days of the ” resurrection men,” when its leading object was secure the grave against robbery by means of the well-known “mortsafes” strong iron cages locked to sleepers which embraced the coffin ; but after this laborious contrivance with the sister societies in almost every parish, have become only memories of the bygone times. The Association here referred to is carefully cherished for the sake of the carriage so often in use bear the dead from the populous sea town of Cellardyke the ancient “God’s acre” of Kilrenny. The hearse is indeed an antiquarian relict, and is more than’an nucleus of the old family carriage of Methven, Earl of Kellie, who gave it as a gift to the parish during the ministry of the Rev. James Brown. The sable sides were made terrible with skulls and crossbones by the grim humourist, Painter Bain ; but however interesting the reminiscences, few, dare say, will regret the resolution which has discarded the unshapely and worn-out old vehicle, which a society like that of Kilrenny, with membership of some four hundred, can with little sacrifice adequately replace in accordance with the tastes of the times.

At a Justice of Peace Court held on Tuesday—James Bell, grocer, West Anstruther, pled guilty to having had a number of light weights in his possession, and was fined £2 ; and William Black Waterston, baker and confectioner, Cellardyke, was fined in a like sum for a similar offence.

1876

SHIPWRECKED FISHERMEN AND MARINERS’ ROYAL BENEVOLENT SOCIETY. The committee having heard through their honorary agents that the towns of Cellardyke and Str. Monance, in Fifeshire, had lost in one blow 37 of the flower of their sea-going men, leaving 19 women widows and 72 children orphan*, and that a local fund was being raised to help these destitute ones, resolved to head the list of contributions with £150.

Fifteen Cellardyke boats left this week for Howth to be engaged in the herring fishing there. From Pittenweem the number is 20, and from St Monance 7. Altogether between 60 and 80 crews from the Anstruther district, which includes the stations from St Andrews to Buckhaven inclusive, will prosecute the fishing on the Irish coast.

EAST OF FIFE MUTUAL INSURANCE BOAT CLUB. THE Directors are now prepared to receive PROPOSALS for Policies. Applications to be made to Mr George Sharp, merchant, Cellardyke, Secretary and Treasurer. Cellardyke, 28th April 1876.

1877

DERELICT TOWED INTO HARBOUR.

The abandoned galliot, which been so frequently reported of late in the North Sea, was fallen in with some six leagues the offing of St Abb’s, about noon Thursday, and towed into Anster harbour by the two Cellardyke boats, the North Star, Skipper John Gardiner, and the Economy, Skipper John Watson. The voyage was critical one, the wreck, though timber laden, was waterlogged that her decks were washed every wave. Her main mast was cut away to a stump, and her foremast, though still erect, was naked as a finger post; but the wind being fair, she was safely berthed within the piers about ten o’clock Friday morning, some twenty-one hours after being taken into tow. When first seen by the Fife boats, in the fishing trip of the previous week, she was about ninety miles to the seaward of the May, where she appears to have been thoroughly stripped of her gear and stores by the French luggers. So complete had been the plunder, or the ravage of the waves, that name board and everything had disappeared that could tell the port or designation of the vessel. The fate of her crew is no less a mystery, but she has been evidently weeks adrift in the course of Baltic traders and fishing craft, so that the poor mariners were in all probability saved from the wreck if, indeed, the disaster was not the consequence of collision with another ship, her broken stern has led some to believe. The hulk, however, is that of a galliot of about hundred plus tons burthen, packed like egg from stem to stern with Norwegian pine wood in staves for dry ware casks and barrels, which are being unloaded by the salvers in good condition, though the battered wreck is only much firewood. The salvage will little more than recompense the two crews for their exertions and sacrifice of time ; but apart from all questions of prize money, they have, it will be allowed on the coast, done good service in removing obstruction so fraught with danger and disaster, especially after nightfall, to those sailing the North Sea. The hull and cargo, of course, are in charge of  the Deputy Receiver Wrecks, Anstruther.

At Cellardyke, Mr Brown is making good progress in the formation of Rodger Street. Shortly after Admiral Bethune agreed to feu the ground, two of the sites were taken up, and the buildings, which consist of a single and a double house of two storeys each, are now well advanced, and when completed will give accommodation for 12 families. Mr Thomas Fowler, merchant, is to be the proprietor of the single house, and the other is being built for Messrs Robert and George Ritchie. Messrs Mitchell Doeg (Pratt) and John Doeg (Smith) have also secured sites, and Mr Brown is to build thereon another double house. More of the feus will, it is expected, shortly be taken up. In George Street, Mr Wallace, builder, Anstruther, has erected a new house of two storeys and attics for Mr James Brunton. The masonry is completed, and the joiner work, which is being executed by Mr John Jameson, Pittenweem is well advanced. In George Street, the old tenement formerly belonging to Mr Peter Murray, Williamstown, and which was purchased by Mr Henry Stevenson, is to be taken down, and a new and commodious house of two storeys and sunk cellars built by Mr Brown. In connection with these operations, we hear that Mr Brown has obtained a lease of the old quarry below Kilrenny Manse, and from which the stones used in building the manse and Kilrenny Church were obtained. It has not been in operation for nearly 60 years, but as the depth is about 40 feet an almost unlimited supply can be obtained at comparatively small expense.

1878

The steam fishing boat Onward also arrived on Wednesday afternoon, and landed a fair cargo, the sum realised being close on £21. The crews of these report the weather at sea as having been stormy, and it is considered probable that many of those at sea would not have cast their nets on Tuesday night, which would account for their non-arrival. So far as we have heard, the number of Cellardyke boats to be engaged in the herring fishing at Howth this year is only three, two of which left last night

1879

It is pleasing to observe that a marked improvement has taken piece in the health of the Coast. Scarlatina and other epidemics scarce linger on the threshold, but a fatal case of a sebrile nature occurred in Cellardyke on the Sabbath, in the death of a child of seven years, the daughter of Mr David Boyter.

Shetland, Fishing. —All the south country boats have now left here except the two hailing from Cellardyke, which have been remarkably fortunate all through the season.

1870

NATIVES of Anstruther in Australia

 David Murray, son of William Murray, of Adelaide Lodge here, has we learn from Australian Papers been elected a member of the legislature of South Australia. There were four candidates, and one of Mr Murray’s opponents was Mr D Fowler, son of James Fowler, Esq, Cellardyke, who was next to him in the number of votes polled.

On Monday last, a sheriff officer arrived here from Cupar for the purpose of executing a warrant, at the instance of his creditors, for the apprehension of Thomas Paterson, a confectioner who lately commenced business in Cellardyke. Paterson appears to have got an inkling of the Cupar functionary’s intended mission to the east coast, and resolved, in order to avoid all disagreeable intimacy with him, to take a day at the yawl fishing. He accordingly went out in a boat in the forenoon to enjoy the sweets of the ocean breeze. The beagle, along with an assistant, called repeatedly at the house and shop of the truant, but could never see or get any satisfactory knowledge of his whereabouts, until six o’clock in the evening. He was then about to start homewards without any prospect of being able to accomplish his mission, when, in taking a look at the new harbour, he overheard some persons conversing about the Cellardyke confectioner having gone out to fish in a small boat along with a certain other party. At this he no doubt pricked his ears, and resolved to await the boat’s return, which it did about nine o’clock in the evening, landing at West Anstruther pier. The officer, of course, and a considerable crowd of persons, made it a point to be present to welcome him on his return front the sea voyage, and the boat had no sooner touched the pier than he swung himself aboard and at once captured the runaway. He was conveyed at once to St Andrews, en route to Cupar.

A boat’s crew, belonging to Cellardyke,  a few days ago fell in with a number of deed sheep floating out at sea east of the of May. The carcases were brought onshore and proved to be wholesome food. They had been washed overboard from the Leith end Baltic steam traders, the Dresden and Vistula, which during the late gale lost about 900 sheep and cattle. A life buoy, narked “Gibraltar” was also picked up, and is supposed to have belonged to the steam tug of that name, ran into and sunk near Dunbar.

1871

Property in Cellardyke for sale to be by private bargain, that commodious front dwelling house in East Forth street, and the flesher’s shop adjoining, with cellar and garden ground, belonging to Mr George Henderson, flesher, Cellardyke. offers to be lodged with Messrs Smith & Cook.

HOLIDAY. The annual Queen’s birthday holiday was observed in Anstruther, Cellardyke, and Pittenweem yesterday, when business was generally suspended. The weather was very unfavourable, rain falling very heavily up till nearly four clock in the afternoon, and the number of persons who left the town to visit other places was far less than in former years

1872

WRECK- The wreck of the schooner Maori,’ of Montrose, which sunk some time ago between Fifeness and Crail, was exposed for sale in the Golf Inn here on Wednesday. There was only one bid for the wreck, and it was knocked down to Mr Alex. Cunningham, Cellardyke, for £5. The long-boat belonging to the vessel was also sold, the purchaser being ex-Bailie Gay, at the low sum of 32s 6d. Bailie Bonthron, Anstruther, officiated as auctioneer.

WANTED, a Stout LAD, as an Apprentice to the Boatbuilding Trade. Apply to J. A. MILLAR, Cellardyke.

IMPROVEMENTS IN CELLARDYKE. During the last twenty or thirty years, reforms and improvements- social, political, and scientific – have been the order of the day. The East of Fife burghs have been no exception to this general movement, and we have on various occasions noticed improvements as they have been effected in the district; but it may perhaps not be uninteresting in these dull times to refer more particularly to those which have taken place in the prosperous and important fishing place of Cellardyke. Before these improvements were projected, the state of the town was far from being creditable to the inhabitants, although it was perhaps not worse than some of the other fishing towns along the coast. Part of the Lower Street was at that time laid with round bullets, and at many places it was almost impassable for carts. The first improvement was the lifting up of these bullets and the substitution of a macadamised road. A few years ago part of the east end of the town was paved with Carlingnose stones, and at present a considerable portion of the street to the west of the town hull is being laid in the same way, and when this is finished, the only parts remaining unpaved of the principal street will be small portions between the town hall and the Urquhart Wynd and at the west entrance to the town, which it is expected will also be done as soon as the state of the funds at the disposal of the Police Commissioners will permit. The old system of having outside projecting stairs to houses prevailed to a considerable extent in the burgh, but these have been nearly all removed, as well as many obstructions end buildings jutting out upon the pavement. This has more especially been the case since the passing of the Act which put the management of the affairs of the burgh again into the hands of the ratepayers, whose selection of representatives has done them great credit. For the improvements which we have briefly alluded to, the community is undoubtedly mainly indebted to Provost Martin, and his colleagues in the Magistracy, Bailies Sharp and Watson, who have taken advantage of every opportunity not only to improve the condition of the burgh, but also to forward the interests of the inhabitants in every way. As instances, we need only point out the raising of the Post Office to a money order office in 1889 and to a telegraph office last year, and also to the appointment of a new letter-carrier—all matters of importance to the community, and the concession of which were entirely due to the praiseworthy exertions of the Provost and his colleagues. The great increase in the population has also led to the erection of a large number of new houses and the enlargement of others. In 1763, the population. of the parish was 1348 ; but in 1790, when a census was taken at the instance of Sir John Sinclair, who got it done by the ministers of the various Scottish parishes, in order to tarnish materials for the Statistical Account of Scotland, it had decreased to 1080 ; and in 1801, when the first official census was taken, to 1042. Since the beginning of the present century, however, it has steadily increased until last year, when the population, including that portion of the parish situated within the parliamentary burgh of Anstruther- Easter, was 3050, being an increase of nearly one third during the 70 years. The number of houses has also increased from 205 in 1801 to 310 in 1871, and at the latter date on an average each house was occupied by two families, or nine individuals. The population of the burgh is about 2500, of which 426, or about one sixth, are fishermen. Among the new houses which have been erected during the last twenty years are the large tenements in Dove Street, in the neighbourhood of the harbour, the fine block of houses known as East Forth Street, extending from Mr George Henderson’s to the New Free Church Hall, Ellice Street, and West Forth Street. In the last mentioned, Mr Wallace, builder, Anstruther, is at present finishing four new houses, while a little further west Mr Guthrie, Crail, is engaged in putting up three more for Mr Ritchie, fishcurer. The site to the west of Mr Ritchie’s houses is also to be built upon immediately, so that there will be additional accommodation in a short time for sixteen families. Many other minor improvements have also taken place in the taking down of old houses and rebuilding of new ones, which have all tended to improve the appearance of the burgh. In regard to sanitary matters, the Local Authority, have been active in their endeavours to remove all nuisances, and lately the Police Commissioners adopted several clauses of the Lindsay Act, which will extend their powers in this respect.

1873

Dispute about Public Property. A curious misunderstanding has just come to issue between the Town Council and the fishermen respecting the foreshore at the harbour, which has been an everyday topic of lively and anxious debate for some time past. As the point, however, is beset with some local peculiarities, few prefatory remarks may not unwelcome to our readers. Both a burgh of Regality under its early superiors, the Archbishops of St Andrews, from Patrick Graham to John Hamilton, and a Royal Burgh ever since the youthful days of King James, the town of Kilrenny or Cellardyke has, like other Scottish burghs, had an undoubted right to “all vacant ground,” including the foreshore, which with the harbour was formally ceded by charter to the inhabitants by its first lay master, John Bethune, nearly 300 years ago. From time immemorial, however, the fishermen had been in the habit—which was any winter night in the days of the old storm-swept harbour—of hauling their boats upon the beach without leave being asked or granted, and so matters remained till at a comparatively recent period, when it was resolved by the Burgh Managers with the consent of the fishermen to let the foreshore for yearly payment as wintering place for boats. Subsequently, however, the Managers gave the charge of the foreshore to the fishermen who were and are represented, we may say, by what is called the “Teind Committee,” that is, four of their number who lease the tithes of Kilrenny from Admiral Bethune, and for which £50 has been for some time annually paid. The Teind Committee, from some curious mistake, had thought they were bound to keep up the harbour, and it was avowedly with the view that a fund might be set aside for this purpose that the foreshore was surrendered by the Burgh authorities, who, however,  have always let the ground without question as fishcuring stations. In this position the case remained till at meeting in June last when the Council resolved, on the motion of Provost Martin, to resume possession of the foreshore. The authorities were induced to take this step from a strong sense of public duty, the language on the occasion being that “the Town Council were the trustees of the community, and such could not and ought not as faithful guardians give up any part of the town’s property.” It was specially resolved, however, that the rent raised from the foreshore should be exclusively devoted to uphold the harbour and its approaches; but as the old saying has it, ” There are always two at a bargain making,” and on their part the Teind Committee seem to have taken offence that the constituents, the fishermen, had neither been consulted nor recognised in the arrangement. ” We, and our fathers before us,” said they, have had a free right to the beach ; and though we may agree to pay for it amongst ourselves, yet it is so far like a bargain in a family, which other party has a right interfere with or disturb.” Accordingly the Committee, as usual, gave notice that the foreshore would be publicly offered for set on the last Saturday of May; but the Council at once accepted the advertisement as a declaration of war, and that spirit, we may say, prepared to vindicate the burgh rights. At least so we may infer, as at the meeting on Saturday the Council resolved, unless the Teind Committee resiled from the intended proceedings to apply for interdict from the Sheriff, and bring the case to a legal issue. But fortunately for the interests peace, this extreme course was avoided by a suggestion from Bailie Watson, who is also the secretary of the Committee, to adjourn the meeting till the evening, in order to allow time for an amicable understanding being come to. The Committee, which consists of Skippers Robt. Brown, Jas. Cunningham, Alexander Watson, and George Moncrieff, with their worthy secretary, were fully persuaded of the justice of the claim made on behalf of the fishermen, but out of enlightened regard for unity and peace, they resolved to withdraw the advertisement and stop the intended auction rather than allow the town to be divided by any profitless and unseemly strife. At the adjourned meeting held the same evening, the Town Council frankly accepted the concession by the tacksmen, and agreed to take no” further action in the meantime. The money, however, realised by the auction of the foreshore last summer still lies unappropriated in the bank, and as the question may be said to be merely postponed rather than decided it presently stands, itis earnestly to be hoped that some fair and permanent arrangement will be speedily come to. It is obvious that Provost Martin and his colleagues are in this matter acting from a high sense of public duty, and that the difference, or rather misunderstanding, with the fishermen must be to them a source very much pain and regret; while, on the other hand, the hardy mariners, who all but represent the community, have an undoubted ” use and wont” right to vindicate and defend; but still, in those privileged times, when the fishermen may be said “to have the haft and blade in their own hand” in the election of the burgh rulers, think that the spirit of prudence and moderation will gradually bring about the proper solution of the question without the costly and vexatious agency of the law.

1890

One of the Cellardyke boats which have been fishing at Valencia on the south coast of Ireland, a distance of 600 or 700 miles from here, arrived home on Tuesday morning after a good passage. The crew report that owing to so many dog-fish it was impossible to give the fishing at this station a fair trial, but the other two boats were to remain for a week or two longer and endeavour to earn something. It seems there were plenty of fish; but the swarms of dogfish prevented them being caught.

1892

The Cellardyke boat Fifeshire KY 43 put into Elie on Thursday morning and the skipper reported that while tacking to the storm late on Wednesday night near Carr Rock, at the mouth of the Firth of Forth, George Anderson (Tarvit), belonging to Cellardyke, was struck by the sail and knocked overboard. A heavy sea was raging at the time, and he was never seen again. He was 37 years of age, and leaves a widow and two children.

At Leven Police Court on Monday, before Bailie Crabb, James Keith, fishcadger, Cellardyke, was charged with conducting himself in a riotous manner at the station, on 26th March, whereby a breach of the peace was caused. He pleaded not guilty. James Irvine stated that prisoner went into the agents room, sat down, and coolly lighted his pipe. He refused to go out when asked, and gave witness nothing but insolence. He tried to remove him, and both landed in the ash pit. He then got assistance and ejected him. Keith cross-examined witness, and tried to prove he didn’t know the waiting room, but failed to do this. Introducing irrelevant matter, he was sharply pulled up by the Magistrate, and insolently retorted that he was questioning witness. Prisoner said he did not know the waiting room any more than the cart that was not made, Walter Nicol corroborated generally the first witness’ statement, and further that Keith went into the agent’s room again about 5 minutes after being put out. He came to the station about 7.30 and couldn’t leave till 9.9. He was very drunk. Prisoner again essayed cross-examination, but was told by the Magistrate he had no right to ask such questions as he was putting. Constable Pottie said between 7 and 8 o’clock a messenger came to the police office complaining that James Keith was at the station, and had taken possession of the agent’s room and was knocking the chairs about. He went up but could not see him, then went back at 9 o’clock, and found him, he was then using bad language. When challenged by witness, prisoner lifted his foot and said a good kicking was what witness needed, and be would do it. John Mann and Thomas Jack then took hold of him and held him back, and he continued to curse and swear and conducted himself in a most disgraceful manner.

Prisoner (to Fiscal)—Did you hear these fellows (the witnesses) contradict each other, and they were there all the time?

Fiscal—Not at all—one of them went away at 9 o clock;  but you will have witnesses.

Prisoner to witness — have you any cause to touch me? yes. Did you hear me swear? Yes,  Will you say what I said? No, certainly not; unless the magistrate asks me.

Prisoner—No; I suppose no! D’ye ken what ye should be dae’n? ye should be writin’ novels.

The Magistrate – Come, come, that won’t do!

Prisoner— I’ll see better intae this case. If I was drunk, why did the Railway Company let me intae their carriage?

The Fiscal—You’re not charged with being. drunk.

Prisoner— No ; ye’re feart tae dae’ it?

The Fiscal—H are you any witnesses?

Prisoner—Yes; I have three ; bet they’ll no come doon.

This closed the evidence. The magistrate – well this case has been clearly proved. 20s or 14 days Prisoner – but is hisnae been proved tae me.

Magistrate –  You have nothing to do with that at all.

Prisoner – aweel, ye’ll hear mair aboot it! As james would not or could not stump up he was detained. Preparing to leave fir the station the prisoner, probably uplifted with the honour of being one of His Majesty’s boarders for a short time, demanded a cab in which to proceed to the station. This, unfortunately, was not at hand, but his attendants, anxious not to deprive him of his dignity, were hurriedly searching for a two wheeled barrow to accommodate him, when fortunately a suitable conveyance turned up, and was at once requisitioned. Prisoner’s face at once lightened up on seeing it, and he took his seat with a solemnity befitting the occasion. The want of springs was but a slight discomfort compared to the coal dust with whioch he was nearly choaked before reaching the station. James no doubt repented his stubbornness shortly afterwards, as on attempting to light his pipe as a solace to hide his wounded feelings, he was promptly ordered to put it out, which he reluctantly did.

1893

A Cheap Lot —On Saturday, the fishcuring premises belonging to Mr Sharp, Australia, situated in Shore Wynd, at the east end of Cellardyke, were exposed for sale in the Hall. This is the second time the property has been put up —on the first occasion, only £20 being offered, while the reserve price was £8O. On Saturday, Mr John Morris offered £25, and at this figure they changed hands. The premises are badly situated for fishcuring purposes, and will probably be demolished and the site used for building purposes.

Tonight – Tonight

 A NICHT Wl’ TANNAHILL

CELLARDYKE TOWN HALL LECTURE on the POET TANNAHILL by the Rev. ROBERT TURNBULL, Berrowfield Parish, Glasgow.

The following songs, illustrative of the Lecture, will be sung ‘Gloomy Winter’s non awa’ ‘London’s Bonnie Woods awl Braw’: ‘ the Braes o Balquhither’  “Jessie, the Flower Dunblane’ ‘Thou Bonnie Wood o’ Craigielee” ‘The lass o’  Airenteenie’.

Chair to be taken at 8.15.

Admission—Front Seats, 1s Back Seats, 6d.

LETTERS TO EDITOR. THE VALUE OF THE TAY MUSSELS. TO THE EDITOR OF THE DUNDEE COURIER. Sir, —I notice St Andrews Town Council have been told by a Tayport expert that one of their mussels worth three of the Tay mussels. As a mussel agent and practical dredger of twenty-one years’ standing, I deny this. A few years ago some Cellardyke fishermen kept account of their takes caught with mussels from the Eden, the Clyde, and the Tay. The heaviest and best takes were those got with the Tay mussel. The Tay mussel is the best in Scotland. Cultivated mussels are heavier, but are generally too fat and do not cling to the hook, and they are not so sweet and appetising baits for fish as the wild mussel. The difference is like the difference between a cooked tame duck and a cooked wild duck. The Tay mussel, besides being sweet, is tough, and seldom parts from the hook.— lam, &c., William Dutch. Ogilvie Street, Tayport.

1894

Yesterday afternoon three of the four Cellardyke and missing fishing boats arrived Anstruther. The one about which nothing has been seen or heard of since she left early on Monday week is the James Ritchie Welch, Cellardyke, skipper James Smith (Hamilton), and crew of six. Hopes are still entertained that she will turn In safely.

SAFETY OF THE MISSING FIFE BOATS. The Smiling Morn, of Cellardyke, was reported from Aberdeen yesterday morning, while the Resolute, Betsy Hughes, and Minniehaha, of Pittenweem, all arrived in the Firth in the course of the day. The crew of the latter state that they saw the J. R. Welch working her gear on Sunday, and she was expected every moment. The Glengarry had not been seen since Saturday, but as she was then lying at her lines there is no doubt felt that she will also put in an appearance shortly. As was anticipated, they had held on to the great- lines in order to save them, and the storms gave no chance to haul until Sunday. The gale was accompanied with dangerous counter seas, and but for the skill and experience of the crews it is question- able if such a happy report would now fall to be recorded.

THE MISSING FIFE BOATS. The last of the missing Cellardyke fishing boats have arrived at Anstruther with the crews all safe. Some of the fishermen report very narrow escapes from the heavy seas which swept over the boats, while others had few provisions, and were living short allowance. All the boats have now been accounted for.

1935

PRESENTATION TO CELLARDYKE MAN. An interesting ceremony took place in the recreation room of the General Motor Carrying Co., when Mr Alex. Hodge, Cellardyke, a member of the staff, was presented with a clock on the occasion of his marriage to Miss Margaret Meldrum, Crail. The presentation was made by the manager, Mr Thomas Gardner, and .Mr Hodge suitably replied.

GIFT TO CELLARDYKE CHOIR MEMBERS. On the occasion of their marriage Mr James Donaldson and Miss Agnes Boyter, two members of Cellardyke Parish Church Choir, were presented with a silver tea service by the choir.

Dundee Minister’s Farewell.

 To-Morrow Rev. David Dick bids adieu to Clepington Parish Church Dundee, to-morrow, where he has been for nearly nine years. He leaves for Torthorwald Church, Dumfriesshire, next week. He has been honoured by various organisations in the church during the course of the week.  A native  of Cellardyke, Fife, Mr Dick was at one time assistant in Clepington Church, went in 1924 to temporary work at Constantinople, later was assistant in Dunblane Cathedral, and from there was recalled minister in charge Clepington.

1936

The fishing ports on the East Fife coast are enjoying a boom in boatbuilding. The Royal Sovereign is in course of erection in Cellardyke Harbour to the order of Provost Carstairs, of Anstruther.

1937

GOD’S LAWS “DRAGGED THROUGH DUST”

Speaker and Sabbath Observance

Christian Endeavour’s Council of Youth Meeting

The intrusion of the Sabbath on the pretext that it was meeting the demands of progress and education was commented on a speaker at the Council Youth meeting of the annual Convention of the Scottish Christian Endeavour Union Y.M.C.A., Dundee, to-day.

There was large attendance of young people.

Rev. James Hall, the new president occupied the chair. Welcoming the young people Mr Hall said in school days they were taught the three R’s —reading, writing arithmetic, and to-day the addresses various speakers on ” Jesus Christ, Lord ” were dealing with reading, recreation, and relationship.

 Miss Jean Bett, Cellardyke, who dealt with reading said it was one of the greatest factors of character building, so they should not read just anything that they came across at any time. There were conditions to-day which they called improvement simply because they were not what they were in the last generation. For instance they had seen God’s laws dragged through the dust. The Sabbath had become a day on which anything could be done. …………………….

The celebrations at Anstruther and Cellardyke began with a joint church service in Chalmers Memorial Church, in the afternoon, local ministers officiating.

A fancy-dress parade is to be held tonight, and at 9.30 p.m. a bonfire at the East End, Cellardyke, will be lit by Miss Louisia Murray, White House. A fireworks display on the east pier and a dance in Anstruther Town Hall will follow. To-morrow a free entertainment will be given to school children and old age pensioners in the Regal Cinema.

1938

BOATBUILDING BOOM—Boatbuilding yards in East Neuk of Fife, at Anstruther and  St Monance, are busy with new construction for the summer season. A new motor vessel, 50 feet long, of the cabin cruiser type, is being built at Cellardyke. (Unfortunately this was no boom this was the last vessel ever to be built at Cellardyke)

1939

The death took place at his residence, Navarre. Crail Road, Anstruther, on Tuesday of Captain Thomas Scott Laverock. Captain Laverock, who had been in failing, health for some years, was a native of Buckhaven. He was engaged on steamships of various lines. Leaving the sea about 40 years ago, he became a partner in the firm of John Martin & Co., manufacturers, Cellardyke, retiring from business in 1922. It his 76th year he was well known in the burgh. He was session clerk of Chalmers Memorial Church for many years. He was also a former member of Anstruther Union Harbour Commission and of the old Kilrenny Parish Council. Captain Laverock is survived by his wife and two daughters. The elder is married to Mr M. Norwell Ireland, Inspector of the National Bank, and the younger is the wife of Mr M. M. Dow, of Hood & Walker, ironmongers, Cupar.

1941

“Equipment” for Ministers Whether minister’s books in his manse ranked for war damage insurance purposes as private chattels or as professional equipment was asked by Rev. J. R. Lee, Cellardyke. at a meeting of St Andrews Presbytery yesterday. Mr Lee said special provision was made for the equipment of doctors, dentists, solicitors and other professional men. A minister’s equipment had to include more than a Bible. It was pointed out the rate of premium was higher for professional equipment than for private chattels.

1942

At Pittenweem W.R.I. Miss Jeanie Galloway gave a resume of the federation meeting at Cupar.

A demonstration on the renovation of felt hats was given by Mrs Dick, Cellardyke.

A musical competition with a romantic setting and composed by Councillor Miss Hutchon, accompanied to music by Mrs Keay, was won by Mrs A. Duncan and Miss M. Hughes, equal. Mrs Keay was soloist, and accompanist was Mrs J. Wilson. Tea hostesses were Mrs Tod, Mrs Boyter. Mrs D. Chapman, Mrs Hughes (Reid), and Miss Pettigrew. Councillor Miss Hutchon presided, and Miss Juliet Galloway proposed thanks.

Pupils Want Hairtrim Holiday

Fife Headmaster’s Complaint

 A letter from Mr David R. Nairn, headmaster, Cellardyke School, which came before the Anstruther School Management Committee, complained girls of 12 in East Fife were asking time off school to keep appointments with the hairdresser. The mother of girl had come to school and used abusive language to himself and the girl’s teacher because had refused her permission to go to the hairdresser. It was becoming quite a practice. War-time restrictions were creating a spirit of restlessness, and some parents were taking advantage of the conditions.

A letter from the clerk of the committee had had a salutary effect on the mother this case.

Attendance officer reported a girl of five had only 35 per cent, attendance. When the child’s father was at home she attended regularly, but as soon as he went back her attendances dropped off. It was a case of a feckless mother who liked to keep her child beside her .

 A member was delegated to visit the home.

1943

WELSH COAST DISASTER SURVIVOR. — Sergeant Maurice Jetten , 23-year-old son of Mr Albert Jetten  H M . Customs, 13 George Street, Cellardyke , is one of the two survivors of the disaster to two barges off the Welsh coast , when 81 Naval ratings and Marines lost their lives . Sergeant Jetten , who is in hospital , was eight hours in the water before he managed to clamber over rocks to the shore.

1944

Cellardyke, Crail, Elie, Pittenweem and St Monance schools will be utilised this year for camps for scholars coming from Glasgow area for potato harvesting. Arriving on September 2 they will remain for two weeks.

1945

 A 15 year old Cellardyke boy, who pleaded guilty to a fairly serious offence and had previously appeared in court, was sent to Dysart Remand Home for examination by an psychologist.

1946

THREE FIRSTS FOR ART COLLEGE Three of the five first prizes in the competitions of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, judged in Aberdeen, were won students of the School of Architecture in Dundee of Art. They are:-

Incorporation Prize (£l5) John T. Burton. 4 Elm Street. Dundee; Lorimer Prize (£lo)—William L. Stuart, 11 Gannochyedge. Perth; ” Quarterly Essay Prize (£l5) —William T. Jack, East Shore, Cellardyke.

William J. Clarke, 22 Blinshall Street, Dundee, was awarded a certificate of honourable mention in the competition for the Lorimer Prize.

The subject for the Incorporation Prize “An Undenominational Monastery.” The Lorimer Prize is awarded for the best sketches from ancient or modern buildings. The title of Mr Jack’s essay was “The Fishing Villages o£ Fife”

1949

VESSELS For Sale

FAST motor boat, 20 ft. x 6 ft., splendid V 8 engine, double skin; nearest £100. May, 83 George St., Cellardyke. Fife.

FOR immed. sale, ex m.b. Winaway (KY 279), marine semi-Diesel engine, 48 h.” 4-cylinder, complete with reverse gear, pumps, propellers, and shaft. Spares—3 cylinders, 1 piston, 1 propeller, spare cone and drum, 12-volt dynamo; all usable. Parties, from T. Cunningham Sons,

1883

COLINSBURGH CONCERT. –On Friday evening last, in the Schoolroom here, a very enjoyable concert was given by the Anstruther and Cellardyke Glee Club. Part songs, glees, solos, duets, &c., constituted the programme, all of which were given in a creditable manner. The piano was ably presided at by Miss Buist, Elie.

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

1884

The fishing boat Anapira of Cellardyke put into Leith on Friday with  fish for the market, had on board a shark, about 4ft long which had been caught in the Firth of Forth.

A SALVAGE CLAIM.

About the beginning of last month we reported that the KY boat (No. 1453), Cellardyke, had got one of her masts damaged, and that she was towed up the river by the stream tug Storm King. For this a salvage of £2O has been claimed by the Tug Company. This claim, we understand, is to be resisted, on the alleged ground that, in the circumstances, it is quit unwarrantable, as the boat had entered the river, and was in no danger, and that, therefore, the tug was not entitled to anything more than an ordinary pilotage, which would amount to about 15s. Similar heavier claims have been made upon two Ferryden boats, and should this case go into Court it will excite a good deal of interest.

St Andrews

Mr Miller, boat builder, has made a name for himself among the fishing class. The “Fisher’s Friend” launched by him some weeks ago seems to have taken the eye of the fishermen, and a boat belonging to Cellardyke leas been sent to him to be refitted. The craft is afterwards to be engaged at the Shetland fishing. Mr Miller has two small boats on the stocks, and an order has been given fur the building of a large boat.

1885

On Tuesday morning an act of cruel vandalism was discovered at the fine shop being fitted up by Provost Skinner in the west end of Cellardyke —the frame of the plate glass windows being cut and destroyed, seemingly by a hatchet used over night with no sparing hand. In the course of Saturday night some party, actuated by the same cowardly spirit, lifted a superior drill plough, belonging to Mr Cairns of Kilrenny Mill, and threw it over the steep brae or bank at the Golden Strand, where it lay broken to pieces.

Scottish Sea Fisheries Association. A meeting of the Scottish Sea Fisheries Association was held in Aberdeen on Tuesday —Mr Murray, Cellardyke, presiding. It was decided that the constitution the Association should be such as to embrace, not only fish curers, but fish merchants, and also fishermen and all others interested in the prosperity and the development of the sea fisheries. ……. A long series of recommendations for the proper conduct of the fish trade was resolved upon These included one to the effect that the dates for commencing the curing of herrings for export should be the 20th May for the Hebrides, 20th June for Shetland, 13th July for Orkney, and 20th July for East Coast of Scotland. Another of the recommendations dealt with the size of baskets and the uniform hour of receiving delivery of herrings—twelve o’clock of the date of catch. It was also recommended that herrings shall not be shorter than 8 ½  inches as delivery fish :

1886

CELLARDYKE. BURGH COURT. —A Burgh Court was held on Tuesday—Bailies Martin and Smith on the bench—when the following cases were disposed of :—Breaking School Windows—George Salter, Alexander Hodge Moncrieff, and Thomas Smith, three young lads, were charged with wilfully and mischievously breaking several panes of glass in the Infant School windows by throwing stones, on Thursday the 8th inst. All the boys pled not guilty. Three young lads were brought forward in support of the charge, and all agreed that the accused threw stones and broke the windows The boys had all been playing truant at the time. The Fiscal said it was very painful for the Magistrates to have to sit in judgment on so young boys. Nevertheless property must be protected. The boys had evidently got beyond the jurisdiction of the parents, and he suggested the application of the birch rod, as any other punishment would be no punishment to the children but only to their parents. Bailie Martin, in finding the charge proved, said it appeared to be the opinion of the Cellardyke boys that when any building is uninhabited they were at liberty to break the windows. Considering their youth, and seeing they did not know much better, they had agreed only to fine them 2s 6d, but if any other boys came up they would be punished in a different way. They would be taken to some prison and whipped. He did not know whether the School Board would make the parents put in the windows or not. They had nothing to do with that. He also warned them against playing the truant, for if they had been at school the offence would not have been committed.

Assault and Breach of the Peace —Alexander Pattie, carter, was charged with assaulting Thomas Peattie, baker, by striking him a severe blow on the face with his clenched fist, on Tuesday the 16th March. He was also charged with committing a breach of the peace at same time and place. There were five previous convictions against accused, who pled guilty to assault, but denied the breach of the peace. This plea was accepted by the Fiscal, who said it was very distressing to see so young a man with such a record of crime. He hoped he would take warning, or he would get beyond the jurisdiction of the Magistrates altogether. Pattie was fined 25s, or a month’s imprisonment.

1887

Fife Fishing Boats for the Lewis.

ln the chequered prospects of the Forth it will excite little surprise that two Cellardyke and four Pittenweem boats are about to proceed to the Lewis. ’At one time this fishing was in no little repute on the Fife Coast, but this is the first attempt to revive It for many years. A start is to be made early in the week, but far as we hear no engagement will be entered into till at Stornoway or Barra. Moray Firth friends, however, have been busy writing to the effect that not a few boats are engaged there at 15s for May and 20s for June—i.e., per cran with £2O of bounty. With so little encouragement none of the Fife boats have returned to the Irish seas or to the white fishing at Shetland, but several continue to rendezvous with more or less success at Shields.

1888

A FISHERMAN AND HIS WIFE FINED FOR ASSAUlT.—Before Provost Martin and Bailie Sharp a Burgh Court on Saturday, Robert Watson, fisherman, and his wife (Betsy Keay), were charged with assaulting Catherine Sutherland wife of Alexander Wood, and also with committing a breach of the peace. The complaint bore that on the 10th instant, in a back court off George Street, Mrs Watson abused Mrs Wood, and seizing hold of her by the head pushed her up against a wall, which injured her. On going into her house Watson met her, and lifting his foot kicked her severely on the legs. Both then created a disturbance by shouting all sorts of names to Wood. A plea of not guilty was tendered, and three witnesses gave evidence which bore out the facts stated in the complaint. Mrs Wood said after the assault two doctors attended her who said that her hench had been very much inflamed by the severe treatment she had undergone. One previous conviction was recorded against Watson for assaulting the same woman in 1885, for which he was then fined 10. 6d. Provost Martin said the fine ought to be 12s 6d on this occasion after having been previously convicted, but the Magistrates had decided to inflict a penalty of 12s 6d in all, of which Watson would pay 10s, and his wife 2s 6d. He hoped they would be more careful in future. The fines were paid.

Three Cellardyke boats sailed last week for Stornoway, via the Caledonian Canal. They have both nets and lines on board, the herring fishing will not begin till the 15th prox. A little squadron is being equipped for the Kinsale fishing, and others are making ready for Howth, &c.

1889

Yesterday the large fishing boat Glenroy, of Cellardyke, arrived at St Andrews Harbour, and reported the loss of one of their crew, named James Boyter, about eight o’clock yesterday morning, twenty-three miles east the May. The unfortunate man had overbalanced himself and fallen overboard, and before the boat, which was going about six miles hour, could brought up to him, he had become exhausted and been drowned.