Author: cellaradmin

1880

Severe Gale-Fifeshire Fisherman Drowned.

A heavy S.S.W. gale raged on the coast on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, in consequence of which one or two trading vessels put back to Aberdeen. The fishing craft KY. 1611 belonging to Cellardyke, went out on Tuesday night, but the gale being heavy it was resolved about two o’clock on Wednesday morning make for Stonehaven. There were seven crew on board the boat, which was commanded James Bett. While making way for port the rudder, which was being held by Bett, was struck by a heavy sea, and the tiller coming full round knocked him into the water. He immediately sank. The night being dark, and a heavy sea running, nothing could be done to render assistance. Owing to the accident the boat was headed for Aberdeen. Deceased, about 25 years of age, was married year ago, and he has left widow and child. The gale continued on Wednesday evening with unabated violence; but the wind moderated on Thursday. In addition to the boat above mentioned nearly thirty Fifeshire fishing boats put into Aberdeen harbour for shelter on Wednesday. (The boat was the Taeping)

1881

Little, if any, abatement took place in the rigour of the season up to last night. In the course of the day the clear, unclouded sunshine had the effect of setting the housetops a-dripping, but as the –shadows of the evening fell on the scene, the fingers-of the “Wizard of the North” were everywhere to be seen in the icy stalactites that fringed the eaves. The ground was also seemingly sheathed in glass, but though the hoar frost everywhere tinted the landscape, there has been no further fall of snow since the storm-of last week. In East Anster and also in Cellardyke the Police-Commissioners have bestirred themselves to-clean the thorough fares, and this has also been done on the leading roads, so that traffic is once more in full wheel in the district The most marked interruption was between the coast St Andrews, the omnibus being withdrawn from Wednesday week till Tuesday morning. Several falls took place-on the ice, but no serious accident is reported in the district.

The Herring Fishing.

This enterprise is now in active operation in the east of Fife. Owing to the unsettled weather, but still more, in the opinion of the fishermen, the mischief wrought by the steam trawlers, there had been little or nothing done till Saturday, when about sixty boats came in with a total of nearly two hundred crans. The highest take seventeen crans, current price from 48s to 50s. This encouraging success has acted like a signal call, and, with few exceptions, the fishermen of east are now engaged in the net flaking. This is especially true of Cellardyke and St Monans, and many of the English and other buyers are also on the ground, the campaign, as we have said, is opened in earnest for the season.

1883

At the Cellardyke Bailie Court on Saturday. Grant MacKay  and his wife, Isabella Jack residing in Dove Street, Were convicted for assault on their neighbour, Mr David Muir, and fined 10s and 8s respectively.

Another report

Neighbour’s Quarrel and what came of it.

The Bailies in Cellardyke were called upon to dispose of somewhat curious case on Saturday. A householder and his wife Isabella Jack, her son, George Watson, and her nephew Thomas Jack, also Mrs Ann Birrell or Reid were charged with an assault upon their neighbour, David Muir, likewise with breach the peace in the said street on a previous Saturday. They one and all repudiated the charge, when witnesses were examined pro and con. The evidence was, indeed, of most conflicting kind, but the Bench found the indictment proved in the case of Grant and his wife, who were fined in the sum of 10s and 5s respectively. It broke down, however, in reference to the lads and Mrs Reid, who were then dismissed from the bar. The Court—which sits for the meantime in one of the classrooms of the Free Church Hull—was crowded during the trial.

Interesting Exports. —There have been shipping in the course of the winter from the several Harbours of the East of Fife between Elie and Crail, at this date eleven cargoes of potatoes representing 1123 tons or 5626 Fife bolls. Fearly 700 tons have been sent to the grand emporium of London, but one schooner cleared for Penzance, and amongst the exports of the last few days is a cargo of fifty six, and another of twenty-six tons consigned to Newry, in Ireland. The exporters are Messrs Sharp and Murray, and the tubers are the well-known Champion sort to be used not at the table, but for seed ; thus repeating the experiment tried some two or three years ago by the Irish growers, with the most notable success.

1884

Several engagements for next season’s herring fishing were made on the Kincardine and Forfar coast during the past week. Mr Joseph Anderson, Montrose, has arranged for five boats to fish Gourdon at the following rates: —£2o bounty, £1 arles, fishing to commence 7th July, 15s per cran first week, after that for complement of 200 crans. Three boats have made terms with Messrs Sharp & Murray, Cellardyke, to fish at Shetland, the fishing to commence at 1st June and continue until 13th September; bounty, £55; complement, 500 crans; first month 15s per cran, after that 250 crans at £1, then until finish of complement, 15s.

1885

Drink in, Wit Oct. —At the bar Last Anstruther Burgh Court on Friday-Bailie Graham presiding—the young Cellardyke fisher, Wm. Brown, was accused of assaulting, in so far as he felled to the ground by one more blows, and bit the finger to the effusion of blood, of David Walker, on the last night of the old year, this being the origin, according to the complaint, of the busy forenoon in the first of the week before the Bailies in Cellardyke. He pleaded guilty with provocation. The plea, however, being accepted by the Fiscal, the complainer and two young women, Grace Drummond and Jemima Henderson, deponed to the charge, which, being held proved the panel was fined in 12s 6d. Alexander Martin, fisherman, residing in Kirk Wynd, was then indicted under the Lindsay Act with molesting so as to provoke a breach of the peace, and also with bursting open the door of a pedlar, said to be from the other side of the Atlantic named James Taylor. He pleaded not guilty, but was convicted on the evidence of Mrs Taylor his wife, and one of the neighbours, and fined in 7s 6d. James Keith, carter, Cellardyke, was charged with a similar offence at the house of Widow Sang. He protested his innocence, and held that the widow was only one of the tenants in the house, but, in answer to this, Mrs Sang insisted in the course of her evidence that she had right to bolt the common door at 11 o’clock on a Saturday night. The charge being also deponed to by her daughter, he was convicted and fined in 7s 6d.

1891

Dundee

SEVERE SNOWSTORM AND GALE

A gale set in on Monday night, and was very severe early yesterday morning, the result being that all traces of snow had disappeared from the streets and housetops. About 11 a.m. rain began to fall, and continued over on hour. Later in the afternoon the wind got more northerly, and there were indications of frost. No boats were out, but a Cellardyke boat ran in for shelter as her sail had got disabled.

1892

George Doig, fisherman, Cellardyke, pled guilty to failing to comply with an attendance order granted against him for his boy, who had not been at school since June last. He was fined 2s 6d, with £1 1s 6d of expenses. An attendance order was granted against David Corstorphine, fisherman, Cellardyke, for his boy.

1893

SAD FATAL ACCIDENT IN FIFE.

 Anstruther Cross was the scene of a melancholy accident yesterday afternoon, when James Gardiner, crofter, Cellardyke, was fatally injured by his cart wheel passing over him. He had been at Cameron Bridge for draff, distance of fifteen miles, for which he had left at four in the morning. It is surmised that the long seat in the keen air had so far numbed him that on his descending from the cart with the intention of giving his horse drink at the fountain he fell. The cart wheel passed fight across his chest. Those who observed the accident were naturally stunned, but their fears somewhat diminished when he rose and lifted the hay bag on which he was seated, and which had fallen at the instant. The next moment he again fell, and gradually lost consciousness. He was carried into the house of Mrs Clark opposite, where about half-an-hour after he expired. The body was conveyed to his house in Tolbooth Wynd, Anstruther. The event created painful sensation, and much sympathy is felt for the bereaved wife and young family of six, the eldest about 13. He was 56 years of age.

The fishing best Socrates of St. Monance, while returning to harbour from the fishing ground was run into and sunk by the fishing boat Euphemia, of Pittenweem about one and a half miles east of Cellardyke. The crew were saved.

IRISH FISHERIES COMMISSION.

The Commissioners of Irish Fisheries held inquiry in the Cellardyke Town Hall to-day into early fishing on the south Irish Coast. John Smith, fishcurer, Pittenweem, was the first witness. and said had been in the habit of going for 22 years. His views simply were that herrings caught in May were equally as good those caught in June, if not better. If fishing was put back to June fish buyers would not go there as it would not pay them.  William Lindsay, fisherman; David Wood, Alexander Gardner, and David Watson all Fishermen, Cellardyke, gave evidence, and all agreed that the best time to commence the fishing was 1st May. If put off till 1st June, there would no use of the Scottish fishermen going there. The dogs and sharks generally set the herring and mackerel away in June. None of the witnesses had ever seen large quantities of under-sized mackerels caught.

GOURDON, A good many boats are using herring bait procured from St Monance and Cellardyke, and satisfactory catches of haddocks is the result.

1894

Sad Death a Cellardyke Lad at San Francisco.— On the arrival of the mails from San Francisco it was learned that James Doig, third son of Michael Doig, skipper of the trawler Faith, had been drowned in the harbour at San Francisco on the 25th December. The youth was apprentice on board the four-masted ship Glenogil, belonging to Messrs Williamson & Co., Liverpool. He had left to visit friend on board another ship, but from that time until a week later all trace of him was lost. Every search was made by the captain and the authorities, but without avail. On the Saturday a dredger moved to near the Glenogil, and commenced work, in the course of which a body was brought up. It was identified by a brother apprentice as that of the missing lad. On the following day he was interred close beside the captain’s wife, who had died a couple of weeks before. It is about two years ago since the unfortunate lad left Cellardyke to join his father in Aberdeen. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved parents in their affliction and regret at the untimely death of a promising youth. He was about sixteen years of age.

1895

North Shields

The nets, fifteen in all, that were brought into Berwick by some fishing boats on Saturday afternoon have been identified the property’ of John Wood, Cellardyke, Fife. The coastguard has taken charge of the nets.

ANSTRUTHER. Not for many years has there been such storm as raged here all Sunday. The harbour was a scene great activity, all the fishermen, accoutred in south-westers and waterproof coats, being on duty the whole day, as it was feared the boats might slip their ‘moorings. Several houses in Castle Street and Shore Street were flooded, while pedestrians had to go round by High Street, as It was dangerous to pass along Shore Street. While the tide was its height large volumes of water, with accompanying masses of seaweed, sand, and large stones were hurled over the wall. A breach has been made in the east wall of Cellardyke pier, the stones being thrown into the basin, while great many large boulders in the front have been loosened.

1876

The fund for the relief of the widows and children of the Cellardyke and St Monance fishermen recently lost sea now amounts to £5700.

A Case of considerable importance to fishermen came before Sheriff Crichton at the Anstruther Small-Debt Court on Saturday. It was at the instance of Robert Lindsay , fisherman , Pittenweem , against Thomas Anderson (Anderson) , boat skipper there , and the particulars were as follow : – The pursuer , along with others , was engaged , to prosecute the herring fishing at Yarmouth last autumn in the defender’s boat, the terms being, as is usually the case , that each of the seven men who composed the crew would receive an eighth share of the free proceeds, the other share going for the boat. While going down the river one day, the boat, which belongs to the defender, and was being steered by him, ran into an English lugger, which was also struck immediately afterwards by a Cellardyke boat belonging to skipper Thomas Bett. A reference was entered into between the Scotch shippers and the owners of the lugger, the result oi which was that the former were found liable in £22 for repairs, and £30 as compensation for the loss of two days’ time occasioned by the vessel being kept on shore while the repairs were being executed. Of that amount Anderson paid £30, and in settling up at the end of the season, deducted a proportion of that sum from the amount due to the crew, and which the pursuer now sought to recover. His Lordship, in giving his decision, said, from the evidence led, it appeared to him that the crew were employed more as servants than as in the case of a joint adventure, and that view was greatly strengthened by the practice which had been proved to exist of skippers themselves making good any damage done to their boats. He gave decree for the pursuer with expenses, a decision which was received with loud applause by the crowded Court. Mr Cook acted as agent for the pursuer, and Mr Oliphant for the defender, and the decision was understood to rule the cases of the remainder of the crew.

1877

Claim for Damage to a Boat. – George Smith, fisherman, Cellardyke, sued Mrs Andrew Henderson and Robert Montadore, both residing in Cellardyke, for the sum of £8 2s 9d, in respect of damage done to his boat by that of the defenders. The defence was a denial of liability, on the ground that the boat of the latter was properly moored, but after hearing evidence at considerable length the Sheriff said he had come to the conclusion that the chain by which the defenders’ boat was moored was subjected to a more severe strain than it should have been; and while in a case of this kind there must be hardship of some sort, he thought it consistent with justice and equity that the loss should fall upon the defenders.

Anstruther. Lifeboat, -The annual general meeting of those interested the Anstruther branch of the Royal National Life Boat Institution wan held the Town Hall Saturday evening last—Provost Anderson in the chair. Mr George Dickson, behalf of the honorary treasurer, submitted statement the funds for the year ending December The balance hand at the commencement of the year was £27 7s 4d. which, with the annual contributions (£21 1s). and the sum subscribed amongst the Cellardyke fishermen (£7 16s). brought the total income £56 4s 4d. The expenditure, consisting principally caretaker’s salary and payment crews for quarterly exercises, amounted to £21 10s 7d – leaving a balance hand of £34 13s 9d, being increase over the balance of the previous year of £7 6s 5d, attributable to the fact that thoroughly efficient committee of coxswains had been organised to collect subscriptions from the fishing crews in Cellardyke. This was heartily responded all the crews subscribing 3s each, with, we believe, only two exceptions. It was left the life boat crew, which the late Skipper Andrew was coxswain, to select a successor him.

1878

New Year Spree and how it Ended.—The Bailies of East Anstruther held a criminal court on Saturday, when James Myles, carter, Cellardyke, was charged with drunken and disorderly conduct calculated to provoke a breach of the peace in the meaning of the new Police Act, on Tuesday, the 1st inst. He pleaded guilty and threw himself upon the compassion of the Court, but in respect of this being his fifth conviction before the East Fife bailies, he was sentenced to a fine of 30s, or fourteen days’ imprisonment

1879

We understand that Mrs James Bruce has been appointed succeed Mr Brown in the charge the Post and Telegraph Office in Cellardyke. Considerable difficulty, we believe, has been felt in filling the appointment, hence the delay which has taken place; but from the strong recommendations in her favour, Mrs Bruce will enter in the duties with the best expectations of the public.

The long storm has proved a serious hindrance to the building trade, as with the exception of a day now and then chisel and mallet have been idle since the opening week of December. Our operative masons, therefore, have good cause if they are impatiently heating their toes at the grumbling comers, in far as work is both waiting and accumulating in the district. At Cellardyke the superior business premises in course of erection for Mr Andrew Mitchell, draper, is likely to be followed by renewed enterprise in the way of house extension.

Kilrenny School Board— Cost of New School,  

This Board met in Kilrenny last Wednesday evening, when the Cellardyke members only were present. The committee appointed at last meeting to review the accounts of the several contractors for the new school, gave in report that these should be one and all discharged. The report was unanimously sustained, when it appeared that the total cost of the school and school-house in Cellardyke was no less than £2560. Mr Martin referred to the ways and means – to wit, a Government loan of £2000 and an educational grant of £327 payable in February next, thus leaving a balance of £233 yet to be raised by the Board. Mr Marlin pointed out the difficulty of dealing with such a burden, but eventually it was agreed to make it a bank debt, repayable in stated instalments. The Board then took up the school reports, according to which the average attendance at the new school scarcely exceeded 200, owing chiefly to the prevalence of frost-bitten feet amongst the children, which also interfered considerably with the classes of the other schools. The Chairman, Bailie Sharp, urged the defaulting officer to make every exertion to secure a more regular attendance; but it was thought inexpedient in the meantime to resort in any case to extreme measures. Mr Dalrymple appeared before the Board and asked for some additions to his school furniture, and also for a new pupil teacher, which, he said, was called for seeing that the present attendance the school was about 170, or very near the same as it had been last year. The requests were acquiesced in by the Board, which subsequently approved of several accounts, amongst others of a charge £4 10s for lodgings to Mr Barbour owing to the delay in finishing the new school-house. It was also agreed to let the infant school house to Mrs Margaret Doig, who has charge of the cleaning of the Cellardyke schools, at a yearly rent, to include gas, of 50s. In reference to the accounts for the new school in Cellardyke, it was stated that Mr Currie, the architect, would be satisfied with a fee of £100, which was ordered to be paid. It further appeared that no extras were due to any of the contractors with the exception of Mr Wallace, who, inconsequence of the failure of the Kilrenny quarry, had been forced to find a supply elsewhere at additional expense of about £90, which, after being examined the committee, was fully acquiesced in to the last particular.

1873

Anstruther. Exciting Scene – Another of the stranger crews who are present resorting to the East of Fife for the sake of the herring fishery made a hairbreadth escape at Anstruther harbour a little after the midnight of Sabbath last. The boat was the “New Pink” of Stonehaven, Skipper Andrew Christie, which had been overtaken by the storm the beginning of the previous week while on the voyage to Anstruther, and was driven for shelter into Arbroath, where she lay till Sabbath afternoon, when the crew again hoisted sail for the Firth. They steered safely past the Carr, but by some curious mistake they made straight for Anstruther harbour, though at dead low water; in consequence of which the boat struck hard in the stone-strewn fairway, about hundred yards from the pier-heads. It was pitch dark, with the rain falling as if in bucketfuls at the time, and the wind was also rising ; and as the boat lay tossing and beating in the heavy swell, the poor strangers – more especially they saw no signs of life on the shore – began, in their despair, to fasten bladders about them, hoping that, as lifebuoys, they might be the means of bringing them to the shore as they expected the boat to go to pieces with every heave of the sea – the scene being rendered the more distressing by a young woman being on board, who gave way to the agitation so natural in the circumstances, and cried piteously. Happily at this dreadful juncture the cries of distress were heard by one of the sons of our valued harbour pilot, Mr Wm. Parker, who, after arousing his father, who has also charge of the lifeboat, ran with all speed to Cellardyke, where the first alarm, and with characteristic spirit and humanity, men, women, and children rushed to Anstruther shore, from which, regardless of wind and rain and the raging surf, first a skiff, then long yawl, and lastly, in order to provide against all emergencies, the lifeboat was dragged through the mud to the brink of the tide and launched for the help the strangers, who by these energetic means were safely landed with their nets and stores. The boat was so chafed and broken in the bottom that she filled as the tide rose, but being thus lightened she was eventually towed to the beach, though she will require an extensive repair before she can again proceed to sea. The conduct of the Cellardyke fishermen on the occasion is beyond all praise, and with less energy, skill, and resolution than was displayed on their part, the boat and gear, if not the lives of those on board, must have been lost.

Indignation Meeting of Fishermen. – Ever since the curious old steamboat, the ” Stirling Castle,” began to ply on the Leith passage in the mid-summer of 1842, there have been collisions now and then with the deep sea going boats of Cellardyke, which about the same time began to seek the more sheltered harbour of Anstruther in preference to their own storm beaten “Skimfie.” The boats, as “the weaker vessels”, have, of course, been the sufferers ; and hence out of a hundred mishaps, for which those in charge of the steamer have always found a ready excuse, while, on the other hand, they were denounced by the fishermen as ” tyrannical and reckless,” there has grown a strong feeling in fishing circles very much akin to looking upon the steamer as “a common enemy” of their class. This state of matters has been repeatedly the subject of discussion at the Harbour Board; but an incident occurred the other day in the harbour which has roused the fishermen to take decided and pointed action amongst themselves. It is said that the boat of Skipper John Pratt was run into by the steamer, when the parties in charge of the vessel are accused of adding insult to injury; but suffice it the meantime to say that the affair led to an indignation meeting being convened in the Town Hall Monday night, when the crowded attendance was in itself an evidence of the intense feeling existing on the subject. On the motion of Skipper George Smith, Skipper Charles Carstairs was called to the chair, and having with his usual good sense and moderation explained the object of the meeting, Skipper Win. Moncrieff (Doig) and Councillor James Smith spoke at some length on the grievance to the boats, for which they appeared most to blame the practice swinging the vessel under steam to her berth. At this stage of the proceedings Skipper Alex. Watson threw a paper towards the chair, which on being opened was found to be a petition to the Harbour Board praying that a seafaring man might be appointed to the office of harbour master. The petition had only one signature, that Skipper Thomas Birrell, who next rose, and in the course of a characteristic statement, gave the history of the petition, which, he said, had originated with himself at a meeting of the coxwains of the lifeboat last spring when the unsatisfactory state of the harbour had been under consideration, but that, after having the document prepared for signature other boat skippers, he had heard no more of it until its unexpected appearance the present meeting. Skipper George Moncrieff also addressed the meeting in a temperate and appropriate manner, and Skipper Wm. Watson, when, after a strong but harmonious interchange of opinion it was resolve appoint deputation to confer with the Harbour Board upon the better regulation of the harbour the monthly meeting on Monday, when after the usual vote of thanks to the Chairman, the meeting quietly dispersed.

1874

lt is computed that upwards of two hundred lines, or aggregate stretch of about 115,000 yards of fishing tackle, were lost among the fifty-seven deep sea going Cellardyke boats during the stormy trip in the beginning of the week. The lost gear would measure about seventy miles in length, if we include the “cuds,” as the cordage is called which connects the line with the floats, and the “dumb string,” which so far serve to moor the gear to the stones which anchor it the bottom of the sea. The value of this vast stretch of material may be estimated at nearly three hundred pounds. It furnishes, however, a gratifying illustration of the thrift and provident habits of the Cellardyke community that notwithstanding so great a sacrifice of gear the fishing, far as outfit was concerned, would not have suffered the interruption of a single day.

A Curious Receipt for Street Loiterers

There is nothing so characteristic of a sea faring town as the groups at some accustomed look-out or corner. Other people, in like circumstances, might be gaunting over some real or fancied political grievance: the hardy mariner has always a ready and interesting subject at hand, whether he discusses the fickle tide, or the no less fickle weather; indeed, only by comparing notes, by giving their experience and observation, that the fishermen can possibly prosecute their calling with any prospects of security or success. The old cobbler who lived eighty years ago fully understood the urgency 0f the case when he indited the well-known doggrel saying about the leading topics of fisher talk, these according to him –

Anchors and tows,

Blethers and bows,

And wha’s boat sails fastest.

Interesting it is, indeed, to hear those brave mar speaking together the thousand and one perils of the sea, and there is also this much in favour fisher groups compared with the idle gathering tradesmen, that no passer-by is ever molested or disturbed. The authorities of Cellardyke, have of late shown disposition to suppress this time honoured practice, and with this view, as some say, or to prevent the pranks thoughtless according to others. Provost Martin employed a tradesman the other day to insert small spikes along the ridge of the low wall in front of the Tollbooth. In this way the wall bristled like the back of an irritated hedgehog, but before public indignation had time to shape, far less to explode, the magistrate ordered the same busy hand that fortified the parapet, beat down the spikes in a way to harm nobody. Indeed, the only effect was to furnish the urchins with a supply of lead, they were not slow of picking out from the stones So far the matter has thus ended, but we have induced to give the real facts in order to contradict the various exaggerated rumours which are afloat concerning it. In order, however, to check the frolics of the juvenile population, the wall is being raised a sufficient height to interrupt their amusements.

1871

CELLARDYKE. Accident.- An accident that nearly terminated fatally took place at Pitcorthie Mineral Works on Thursday. One of the miners had advanced to the head of the rail with his truck, when it seems it was his duty to keep warning any other who might be following of their danger. Omitting to do this, one of his fellow workmen was following in the same direction dragging his truck behind him, when the empty truck descended upon him, crushing him against his own truck and injuring him in very serious manner, and the wonder is that he was not killed outright.

1872

Fishing Boats.- A pleasing illustration of the irrepressible spirit of enterprise which animates our hardy sons of the sea is to be seen in the active state of the boatbuilding trade the east of Fife. In all the building yards of the district – two of which are in Cellardyke, two in St Monance, and one in Anstruther – new boats are either in progress or have been contracted for, at a rate which may be indicated about 50s per foot of keel. The contracts do not show any increase in the size of the boats. Experience, fact, has decided this point, and the most, and, therefore, the best paying class of boats. are those which can be employed all the year round, especially during the Forth fishing, for which the larger craft are as unfitted seagoing yacht for a canal lighter. We observe, however, with pleasure, from the handsome boat just drawn out the building yard of Mr Miller, that our fishermen are beginning to appreciate the beam or ship laid deck in preference to the old-fashioned method of having the floor below the thwarts, by which the movements of the crew were of course encumbered by a corresponding degree. This, however, is only one of the manifold improvements which our enterprising fishermen, ever alive to the spirit of the time, have of late years introduced, and which have done so much to give unrivalled sea going fleet their present dashing and yacht-like appearance.

Alarming accident at Sawmill.—On Saturday last, while a fine lad about fourteen years of age, the son of Skipper William Moncrieff, was in the act of lifting some remnants of wood which he was about to use in the construction of his partan creels, near one of the revolving screws in the steam mills of Mr Cormack, his arm was caught by the deadly instrument, which, almost as instantaneous as a stroke of lightning, lacerated the limb in fearful manner: From the copious flow of blood, the most lively fears were excited, which were indescribably heightened by the anxious interval of about two hours before a surgeon could be obtained, but eventually Dr Macarthur dressed the wound, and the poor sufferer is doing as well as could be expected.

Miss Jessie Melville, pupil teacher the Infant School, Cellardyke, has just been presented with an elegant work box, as tribute of esteem for her many amiable qualities, and also in appreciation of the exemplary discharge of her duties, on the occasion of leaving for the Training College in Edinburgh.

“Bad Times.”—The tempestuous weather of the past fortnight has day after day kept the boats windbound in the harbour, or when they have ventured to sea the deceitful lull has been followed by a still more violent outburst of the storm, which has sometimes driven the crews back without casting their lines, and which in every case has vastly multiplied the fatigues and peril of their useful but arduous calling. Very little has consequently been earned at the fishing ; and as a natural result of bad times with our staple industries, the locality has been almost “like mill,” for, as old Paddy Brown was want to say, “A oor grist comes in at the pier heads.” We heard a curious comment on the times the other day: A worthy mother of Cellardyke, who belongs to the “real sea dogs,” as the genuine old fisher families were long ago called by the laird of Innergellie – the eccentric James Lumsdaine – was summoned away from her domestic duties by some still more pressing piscatorial employment outside, when a neighbour who chanced to come into the house cried, ” Oh, Annie, your bairn’s in the ash-hole eatin’ cinders.” Hoots, woman,” replied the ready-witted matron the moment, “the bairn maun jist suit itsel’ tae the times.” There also a good deal of home truth in the “crack at the corner” between two hoaryheaded boatskippers: “Man, Davie, if the folk divna turn gude noo-a-days, it’s no for ony want o’ soirees and tea meetings. Did you ever ken the like o’t They’re like tawtie roups, ane every nicht. Thae Good Templars will turn the world upside doon.” ” Tuts, Jack, a toom pouch mak’s a blate merchant, and Mr Poverty pairts company baith out and in the alehouse ; but for a’ the din and outcry and flytin’, maybe a better day is no sae far awa’, when neighbours will tak’ ‘ pint and gree.’ Auld e’en, Jack, like yours and mine, hae seen many changes.”

Good Templar Processions.—On Monday the. Union” Lodge of Anstruther, with a deputation from the Sister Lodge of Cellardyke, walked in procession with music and banners through both towns to Crail, when they were joined half-way along the road by the Good Templars of that burgh. After marching through the time-honoured streets the company assembled in the Town Hall, when an opportunity was given for rest after the long walk, which was rendered all the more fatiguing by the tempestuous state of the weather. The interval was further enlivened by the singing of hymns, and also by congratulatory addresses from Brother Peebles, the chief of the Crail Lodge, and Brother Beveridge, who presided over the Anstruther division, after which the company resumed their march homeward. As they were leaving the old town the procession was met by musical party playing on flutes, and attended with a drummer, whom Good Templar describes as “some well-dressed young man with very red eyes,” who excited no little remark by their spirited performance, and a “scene” also took place, in the course of which witty son of St Peter, from Cellardyke, in the ranks of the procession, was struck by a half tipsy ploughman, and no doubt it would have been better had some noisy anti-teetotallers taken the advice of discreet old grandmother, who counselled them ” to keep their breath to cool their brose,” but on the whole these trivial incidents have excited more public talk than they deserve, and we only mention them to correct any exaggeration that might appear calculated to throw discredit on the good name of royal Crail. The procession was still on the road when they were overtaken by the drenching showers, which gave such a disagreeable cast to the afternoon of New Year’s day; but notwithstanding, they were met on the way by their Cellardyke friends, who accompanied them to the Freemasons’ Hall, where a halt was made, and the company disbanded. In the course of the day the Juvenile Lodge marched through Anstruther and Cellardyke, and the interesting little regiment passed along under the charge of their respected general—Mr Andrew Wilkie, builder—they excited all sides the liveliest attention. About 200 Good Templar 3 took part in the demonstration to Crail and the juveniles would muster about 100; but unfortunately the stormy nature of the weather and the wet and miry condition of the roads very much interfered with the pleasure and success of the processions.

Grand Good Templar Demonstrations.- Saturday will long be a memorable day in the fishing towns of Fife on the occasion of one of the largest and most successful demonstrations ever celebrated in the East Neuk. Only last spring the Good Templar movement was as the thing of a distant land far as this district was concerned, but since that time five lodges have sprung into existence, in which about 900 are already enrolled. Full of the enthusiasm of their new crusade, the suggestion for grand public demonstration was no sooner ventilated than it was cordially embraced, and Saturday, as being best suited for the was accordingly set apart for the display. The Anstruther friends, however, were of opinion that the temptations of New Year’s day ought to be specially guarded against, and suggested a demonstration for Monday, but in this they were left, as it were, “out in the cold,” as the fishing element— which constitutes fully four-fifths of the organisation—adhered to the only day they could call their own, and unfortunately the lodges divided, though, as may be supposed, the eclat of the proceedings rest with the “naval brigade” of the temperance army. In Cellardyke the events of the day were opened by the sons and daughters of the “Guiding Star” mustering in Forth Street Hall from which, headed with music and with their streaming gaily in the breeze, they marched along the Braehead to the harbour, from which in imposing order of procession and with every door and window filled with eager onlookers, they proceeded through the principal thoroughfares leading into and out of Anstruther until coming to Pittenweem, where they were joined by the “Star of Hope” Lodge of that ancient burgh. Thus reinforced, the company marched on to St Monance, where in  like manner they united with the lifeboat crew—that is, for the rescue of the lost and perishing drunkard—when the procession, which now consisted of fully five hundred, displayed as many as twenty-three flags or banners, and, escorted with the Anstruther and St Monance flute bands, marched through the streets-every house being deserted by its inmates as old and young flocked out to see the stirring spectacle. Having made the circuit of the brave little town, the procession wheeled to the east, sweeping with its living tide through picturesque Pittenweem on to “Maggie Lauder’s toon.” On reaching Cellardyke the procession halted, when the highly interesting and successful proceedings were brought to close. As showing the spirit of brotherhood that exists amongst the Templars as amongst the Freemasons, we may state that the Jersey smack, “Charlotte,” lying at Anstruther pier, was decked out with colours from truck to rail in honour of the order, with which some on board were also identified. The weather was dry, but the roads were in a miserable condition, though every face looked more cheerful and happy than another during the long walk.

1861

Naval Volunteers.- On Monday last information was communicated to the Naval Volunteers for the coast defences in this, neighbourhood to hold themselves in readiness for immediate service. This unexpected intelligence, as might be expected, excited not a little sensation in the fishing towns of Cellardyke, Pittenweem and St Monance where nearly a hundred of the fishermen are enrolled in the force. Amongst the mothers and wives of the Volunteers, the alarm and uneasiness natural in the circumstances was very generally manifested; the men themselves, however, viewed the matter in quite a different aspect, and the prospect of active service was hailed with lively satisfaction; and, when the summons to duty arrives, it will be promptly and cheerfully obeyed. They are all young spirited fellows, and when last on board the exercising ship were highly commended by the officers for their expertness and steadiness. Noted also for their fearlessness and daring, there is little doubt, in ‘whatever position they may be placed, their conduct will be such as to reflect credit on themselves, and advance the honour and glory of their country.

FISHING Notes. —……We understand it is contemplated some enterprising fishermen in Cellardyke to equip a vessel to prosecute the cod fishing at Rockall in the ensuing summer. Should this speculation succeed as it deserves, no doubt many more will be induced to embark in similar venture, there is no lack either of spirit capital in that community.

1863

Melancholy Occurrence.—On Monday afternoon, a deep and painful sensation was occasioned here by the announcement that young man of the name of David Gellatly, a fisherman belonging to this place (Cellardyke), had been drowned by falling overboard from the fishing-boat “Laurel,” of which Alexander Watson is skipper. The boat, it appears, bad sailed with the rest of the fleet from the harbour about one o’clock that morning, and everything had gone on prosperously until she had reached the fishing ground—about twenty miles seaward of the Isle of May—a little before dawn, when, on more sail being made preparatory to casting the lines, the distressing event occurred, under the following circumstances” —Gellatly was assisting to hoise the foresail, and being of active and daring spirit, was standing on the edge of the gunwale, when the purchase-plate or bolt to which the haulyards are attached to the boat gave way, and the tackle in consequence becoming suddenly disengaged, he lost his balance and fell into the water. The boat at the time was sailing quickly before a steady westerly breeze but every possible exertion was at once made by the rest of the crew to render him assistance; and the other Cellardyke boats, which were a short distance astern, were hailed for the same purpose. All their exertions, however, proved unavailing, and the poor fellow was never seen again—the chances of rescue may add, being greatly lessened in the darkness and also the manner which fishermen are attired, their heavy clothing and long sea-boats preventing them, to a great extent, when in the water from doing anything for their own preservation. Nothing further was done that day by the rest of the crew the way of fishing operations, and with heavy hearts arrived in Crail harbour to communicate the sad news, which soon circulated over the district. The unfortunate young man was an only son. He was about twenty-three years of age, and unmarried. He was of very quiet and amiable disposition, and many are there amongst who join with his afflicted parents mourning the untimely fate of one of the most esteemed and promising young men in our community.

1865

WANTED, Two Good NET WORKERS on Machines. Apply to Sharp and Murray, Cellardyke.

1869

Before the (Town Council) meeting separated a resolution was submitted, and unanimously carried, that the thanks of the community, and especially of the fishermen, were due Captain Rodger, of Glasgow (a native of Cellardyke), for his disinterested kindness removing from the fairway of Cellardyke Harbour several rocks and obstructions to the traffic there, and also for the free grant a plot of ground at the east end of the town whereon to beach the boats during winter.

1854

A Reading Room has been opened in the Town Hall of Cellardyke, Fifeshire. The subscription is four shillings per annum. Nearly one-half of the subscribers are fishermen.

HERITABLE SUBJECTS IN CELLARDYKE FOR SALE, BY PRIVATE BARGAIN. 1st, THAT HOUSE of two Storeys, and YARD at the Back thereof, with the Pertinents, lying the South side of the Street of Cellardyke, and presently possessed by William Brown, Shoemaker, and George Keay.

2d, THAT BUILDING, with the Pertinents, at the foot of said Yard, and the privilege of a Road to the same of the breadth of 3 1/2    feet from the street through the above mentioned Subjects. For further information apply to John Smith, Writer, Anstruther, who has the Title Deeds, and with whom separate Offers in writing are requested to be lodged on or before Friday, the 29th of December current. . Anstruther 20th Dec. 1854. .

LIVERPOOL “BLACK BALL” CLIPPER PACKETS.

The celebrated Clipper Lightning

 2093 Tons; now her second voyage.

The Lightning is celebrated for having made the voyage to and from Australia in less time than has ever been accomplished by any ship or steamer afloat: Left Liverpool 14th -May, arrived , back, 23^rd October.

Five Months and Eight-and-a-half Days.

She has also acquired world-wide fame for having made the passage from Melbourne to Liverpool, port to port, in 65 days, being ten days less time than that of any other ship in the world.

All Letters and Newspapers must pass through the post as none can be received at the Agents’ office.

No cargo will be received after the 1lst. All passengers luggage, except first cabin, must be on board on the 2^nd  and all cabin passengers on the 3rd.

Apply to the Owners, JAMES BAINES, A CO., 1 6, Cook Street, Liverpool;

Or to

Robert Stewart 162, High Street, Dundee,

 J. JEFFERS WILSON, Advertiser Office Kirkcaldy.

JAMES HOWIE, St Andrews,

THOMAS BROWN,  Cellardyke, Anstruther

1857

ST MONANCE.—A Benighted Wean.—There is a story of a greetin’ bairn that has been extant on this coast as current coin for perhaps two centuries, which we have always regarded as the mere progeny of timid imagination; and the hair of many heads has been stirred and bristled by the uncouth sounds that have saluted the ears of the benighted wanderers. But it happened just last week on a dark and moonless night, that some of the intrepid youths pertaining to Cellardyke, having their land tacks on board, were careering westward to our province on a, sweetheartjng expedition—for in this way we cross the breed, as agriculturists approve of, and thereby uprear a generation of hardy enterprising nautics utterly destitute of anything resembling fear. Well, whilst cruising about  with yards close hauled, and the manse of Pittenweem, bearing  W by S., distant about four furlongs, a wailing sound wafted on the gale, fell at intervals on their listening organs, “Hal’ your wind, Tom, what’s that ? Puir Mother Carry’s chickens. Heave a head.” Scarcely had they time to reconnoitre their position, when, lo! they discovered sprawling on the ground, not a child of fancy, but a veritable infant about six months’ old, both visible and tangible. Having hoisted the innocent, they proceeded on their course until they observed crazy hulk lying on her beam-ends overladen with barley, and not aware that she had dropped her offspring. With some difficulty, they raised her from the strand and set her on even keel, making last the helpless babe on board the careless mother, and taking her in tow, conducted her to Pittenweem and saw her moored in port. This is a fit subject for the teetotal pledge, were it really effectual.

1859

LOSS OF A BOAT AND SEVEN LIVES. The East of Fife Record (published at Anstruther) reports the loss of one the Cellardyke fishing boats on Thursday last, by which seven lives were lost, and five families with a wide circle of relatives, thrown into deep distress. The boats had been prevented by stormy weather from going to sea all the early part of the week. Wednesday night, however, the storm abated considerably, and on Thursday morning the whole put to sea; but before they had done with the fishing the wind again freshened, and continued to increase all the early part of the day, during which they had to make their way homeward over a cross sea, in which numerous hairbreadth escapes were made, from the waves breaking in upon their undecked vessels and nearly filling them. One the boats, less fortunate, having reached the mouth of the Firth, where they were considered in comparative safety, was suddenly engulphed in a huge wave, and overwhelmed in an instant. Another boat, about a stonecast distant, seeing the catastrophe, immediately bore up to give assistance, and succeeded in saving one of the crew, named Daniel Fleming, but the rest, seven in number, perished. Their names are:—William Birrel, skipper, married ; David Birrel, his son ; Thomas Birrel, his nephew; William Wood, married; James Davidson, married ; George Keay, married ; and James Reid, lately married. The destitution resulting from this sad event, although sore enough to the bereaved families, is perhaps not great sometimes arises from such disasters. As near as we can learn, twelve children, and five widows, are deprived support Within the last thirtv years eight boats, involving about fifty lives, belonging to Cellardyke, have been lost in prosecution the fishing.’

NB This boat was named the Heroine

1825

A Correspondent writes us, that on Sunday or Monday evening week, a Galiot, on board of which was a Cellar-Dykes pilot run down a sloop, name unknown, in the Frith. When the captain of the Galiot felt the shock he immediately came on deck, and supposing that his own vessel was sinking, jumped on board the sloop which instantly went down with all hands. The pilot’s name is Watson; —he passed through the village of Elie on Tuesday, on his way home from Leith, into which port he had taken the Galiot.

Thomas Salter, Fisherman, Cellardyke, having gone to Pittenweem on Thursday last, in the afternoon, where be met with some of his acquaintances, and got himself intoxicated, in returning home, went off the High road (it is supposed) being bewildered by the darkness of the night, and crossing a field toward the sea side, fell over a precipice between Pittenweem and Anstruther. His body was found on Friday morning and taken to Cellardyke. He has left a wife and 3 children to lament his untimely fate.

1831

MARRIED

On the 9th ult. at Cellardyke, near Anstruther, Mr James Webster, A. M. rector of the burgh-and parochial school, Crail, to Euphemia, fifth daughter of David Bell, Esq. late of Bonnyton

1832

ANSTRUTHER. The Ralphites here, after sounding a mighty note of preparation for a grand dinner to the Baronet, deputed a gentleman wait on him formally with the invitation, which was accepted in due form. The committee sat many a time and oft in solemn deliberation, and a gentleman who takes a lead, and thinks himself no small beer,” cut a conspicuous figure in the consultations. The inhabitants whispered and wondered, the innkeepers were on the tenter hooks of expectation, and the public could endure the suspense longer, when behold! the dinner vanished like the baseless fabric of vision ; and to the dismay of the unhappy Phillippians the self-same gentleman intimated to the Baronet that dinner was not at present to take place. The cause is as yet secret, but it is evident that the spirit of the party has evaporated. The Baronet is ringing in—his winter sun is nearly set. A few days ago he made an assault on Cellardyke with an Edinburgh newspaper in his hand, but both he and the paper met with a chilling salt water sort of reception. And his plaintive, perhaps you will not come out to the poll, and so please both parties”—seemed to the stanch reformers of that burgh as a farewell to his hopes. We have great reason to be pleased with the new constituency, they have stood their ground firmly, and we are well satisfied that the franchise has been lodged in proper hands. A few weeks will now put us beyond all anxiety on the subject. The dinner, it is understood, left Anstruther about ten days ago, on an aerostatic excursion; and, we have had strong westerly breezes of late, the most painful and alarming fears are entertained for its safety. Several of the knowing ones jocularly remarked, it was a very heavy concern ! ! !’  Query, the price?—as for the dinner itself, it has proved light as a bubble filled with hydrogen gas.

Note —By express we have just learned, that the dinner has been seen a long way out at sea. It is supposed that it must by this time have reached the Dutch coast, and we should not wonder were it regaling General Chasse at Antwerp.

1843

WINTER HERRING FIHHERY. – ANSTRTHUER, December 13.-This fishing has commenced much earlier this winter than usual, and the appearances of a take of herrings are very favourable. This morning- one drave boat and one yawl set their nets near the Isle of May, and the boat brought in 12 of barrels of herrings, which were sold at 32s. per barrel. The yawl has not yet come in. We observe that the whole fleet of Cellardyke boats are preparing to go the Island to-night.

1846

The Total Abstinence Society of and Cellardyke, presented Mr John McDougal, preacher of the gospel, with a Hebrew Bible and Lexicon, a small testimony of their esteem and regard, upon his this leaving this place. During the past two years, has zealously supported the abstinence cause by a series valuable lectures.

1848

The “Friends”, owner, Clark, of Limekilns, from Perth for Clyde, ran on shore near Cellardyke, 1st inst., having previously lost bowsprit in a gale from S.W., and became un-manageable; crew saved.

Admiralty Investigation at Elie.—Mr Bald, C.E., arrived at Elie, to make an investigation, on the part of the Admiralty, into the condition of the harbour. A great many witnesses were examined, among whom were a number of old residenters, whose evidence clearly proved the importance of Elie as a port of refuge and safe accommodation for vessels of every description in former times. The cause of its decay in later times is attributable to the harbour having been allowed to remain so long in ruinous state, together with the want of a proper road betwixt the island and the town, by the want of which great inroads on the beach have been and still are made the sea. Deputations from the fishermen of Cellardyke, Pittenweem, and St Monance, were present. The inhabitants are now under the hope that the subject is now taken up in right earnest, and that ere long this fine but long-neglected natural harbour will be improved so as to afford more protection to life and property, and thereby prove a lasting benefit to the public at large.

CELLARDYKE. authorities here have been for some time past carrying sanitary measures, which have greatly improved the cleanliness of the town, There is still, however, great room for improvement, and, damp weather, an extra scavenger ought to employed, as, considering the fatal ravages of cholera 1832, and of typhus fever the spring of this year, a very serious responsibility rests both the managers of the burgh and parochial board if every precautionary measure is not used. We are glad to hear that five pounds, a legacy of the late Miss Williamson the poor of the parish, has been appropriated to the opening a soup kitchen, a supply of nourishing food is the best preventives against cholera. We trust that our absent heritors will see that there be no lack of funds for the support of this object during the winter months.

1910

THE ST ANDREWS BURGHS CONTEST.

UNIONIST CANDIDATE AT CELLARDYKE.

Major Anstruther Gray had enthusiastic reception at Cellardyke on Saturday night. He gave a rousing address. Mr David Leitch, Cupar, also spoke.

A few days later

DUNCAN MILLAR, AT CELLARDYKE. ADDRESSES A NOISY MEETING. Duncan Millar, Liberal candidate for the ST Andrews Burghs, addressed a crowded and somewhat noisy meeting in Cellardyke last night, when he dealt mainly with fishing questions, referring to the Illegal Trawling Penalties Bill and to the effect of the Development Act in so far as it provided grants for the improvement of harbours

1913

NAVIGATION CLASSES FOR FIFE FISHERMEN. Under the auspices of the Dundee Technical College Navigation School and the Fife and Kinross Secondary Education Committee, navigation classes have been opened for fishermen Cellardyke and Pittenweem. The classes are under the management of Captain Johnston, of the Dundee Navigation School, and assistant. The attendance of fishermen at the enrolment at Cellardyke was 34 and at Pittenweem 30.

1917

KILRENNY SCHOOL BOARD. – CERTIFICATED FEMALE TEACHER WANTED, for JUNIOR DIVISION of CELLARDYKE PUBLIC SCHOOL: qualified to teach singing and drawing; salary £80 rising as per scale. Applications with one copy testimonials to be lodged with Hugh H Soutar, Solicitor, Anstruther, on or before 11th December 1917

1920

BAKER’S BUSINESS AND PROPFRTY in CELLARDYKE, FIFESHIRE, FOR SALE. For Sale, by Private Bargain, the PROPERTY, 51 and 53 George Street. Cellardyke, belonging to THOMAS SWINTON, Baker, and consisting Dwelling House, Shop and Bakehouse, Stable. Loft, and Van Shed; with the BAKER’S BUSINESS which has been carried on by Mr SWINTON for nearly 40 years. Entry at Whitsunday or Earlier. For further particulars apply to D. & A. COOK Solicitors, ANSTRUTHER. with whom offers may’ lodged by 16th December.

1921

FISHING INDUSTRY CRISIS IN FIFE.

Many Boats Finish The Season In Debt.

The herring fishing season of Yarmouth, which closed last week, has proved an utter failure far as the East of Fife fishing fleet is concerned. Out of about 100 steam drifters and motor boats which sailed from Anstruther, Pittenweem. and St Monans, and which have now returned, about one-third will be in debt, while a number have managed to clear their way, and a few have fished sufficiently to allow of a sum not exceeding £5 per man being paid for the twelve weeks work. The fishermen of the East of Fife have experienced many poor seasons, but not one which has so disastrously affected the whole three communities as the past season at Yarmouth. ,

 An Unsuccessful Year.

Had previous fishings during the year proved more remunerative to the fishermen they might have been able perhaps to face the adverse season in English waters, but the failure of the summer herring fishing at the Northern ports and at home threw large number behind financially, with the result that they had to leave for England in debt.

 Another matter which has to be considered is the heavy expense necessary to prosecute the fishing.  At Yarmouth many of the steam drifters had to mak e lengthy trips to the fishing grounds, which involved heavy expense in coal alone. The loss of gear has also this year been serious, the destruction being caused by wrecks in the ground on the English coast. Although the expenses of the vessels may have been cleared this does not mean that individual loss of gear has been replaced. That item has to be made good by the fishermen themselves at a cost of about £7 per net.

Small Earnings.

Although the fishermen at Monans and Pittenweem have fared better than the fishermen Cellardyke. The amount of money brought into the district is so small that many businesses must necessarily suffer. The highest fished St Monans boat only netted £560, while last year the same boat had £1400. The highest result got by a sailing boat was £26 per man. Nearly all the boats are in debt, and many lost nets. One boat, the Gratitude, was lost through being burned out.

1922

LOSS TO FISHING INDUSTRY The fishing industry of Yarmouth and Lowestoft has sustained another deeply regretted loss the death, after a very short illness, and the age of 32. of Mr. Lancelot Charles Harvey, a well-known owner of trawlers and drifters. … At the time of his death was a partner in the firm of Harvey and Hutchings, fish salesmen, etc., and representative for Messrs. Stewart and Jacks (Edinburgh), Roperie Co., Ltd.. Messrs. Webster (Sunderland), and Messrs, Martin & Co. (Cellardyke), all of which were closely associated with the fisheries.

1923

CELLARDYKE. Baker Bankrupt. —David Birrell. baker, took the statutory oath In bankruptcy in Cupar Sheriff Court on Thursday, Mr R. C. Davidson, Cupar, for the trustee, stated that he was satisfied with the explanations given by the bankrupt and did not propose to ask any questions. The state of affairs showed assets at £85, and liabilities at £568 10d.

Success of Putting Green. A credit balance of £72 on the season’s working was shown in the accounts in connection with the putting green, submitted by Provost Mitchell to Kilrennv Town Council. It was to transfer the Common Good account of the burgh. The Provost voiced the Council’s indebtedness to Bailie Bett for his work in connection with the putting green. It agreed minute the Council’s cordial thanks to the donors of prizes.

1925

Buckie. Concert. —In connection with the reopening of the Fishermen’s Hall, Buckie, after extensive alterations and improvements, a concert was held the hall Monday night, when there a large attendance. Mr William Reaich presided, and referred to the fact that £1200 had been spent on the improvements, which gave every satisfaction to the committee. A varied programme was rendered the following artistes, assisted by Mr Peter Smith, Cellardyke: —Misses Bella Cowie………….. and Mr Bruce, Fishermen’s string band,… Mr Jack Mair was accompanist.

1926

After the negotiations towards acquiring the golf course to the north-west of Anstruther fell through, the committee had their attention drawn to the Cellardyke side of the burghs, where it was thought—provided the proprietors were agreeable—a first class eighteen hole course could he made. The ground in question is in the hands Mr Eadie, Corn Ceres, and Mr Clement, Pitkeirie, and is bounded by the sea on one side, and the Anstruther-Crail road on the other. Although considerable part of it is under cultivation, that which lies near to the sea is eminently suitable for the purpose intended. It may be assumed that the proprietors are willing entertain the proposals of the committee seeing that they have now taken expert opinion on the merits of the course. On Tuesday, the committee, along with Provost Mitchell and Bailie Carstairs, Cellardyke, met Mr James Braid, and conducted him over the ground. Mr Braid who is now regarded as one of leading authorities on golf course construction, was very favourably impressed with the possibilities of the ground in question, and his report is awaited with interest. The population of the three burghs Anstruther Easter, Anstruther Wester, and Cellardyke is by no means large, and the running expenses of large course would mean increased fees for local golfers, but a first-class course would prove a great asset in attracting summer visitors.

A Dangerous Toy.

The custom of bringing home toys to the children from the Yarmouth herring fishing had a most unfortunate sequel at Cellardyke last week-end.

A boy had been given an air gun by his father, and under the impression that it was unloaded, he pointed it at a cousin of his own, a girl nine years of age.

Drawing the trigger, he was horrified to see he had shot her in the eye. Medical aid was soon available, but it was impossible to locate the dart, and the sufferer was conveyed Edinburgh to be operated upon a specialist.

1927

CELLARDYKE HOUSING SCHEME. Cellardyke Town Council have resolved to go on with the building of three more blocks of houses at the Toll Road. Bailie Carstairs and Councillors Gardner and Thomson are the members who retire from the Town Council. The election takes place on the second Tuesday of December.

1929

SUBJECTS AT NO. 6 DOVE STREET, CELLARDYKE, FOR SALE.

Sale by Public Roup, by Warrant the Sheriff in an Application for Division and Sale, within the COUNCIL CHAMBER, Anstruther Easter on WEDNESDAY, the 18th day December 1929, at 2 o’clock Afternoon,

That TENEMENT of DWELLING-HOUSES with pertinents situated at No.6 DOVE STREET, CELLARDYKE, and occupied by Mary Gourlay, Alexander M’Ruvie, and George Gardner. Rental £16 15 s Feu-Duty Nominal.

Upset Price, £150.

Further particulars may be obtained from D. & A Cook Solicitors. Anstruther, who hold the Title Deeds and Articles of Roup. Title W.S Bonthron, Auctioneer. Anstruther, 28th November 1929.

1900

Satisfied Scotties-The Crews of the Scotch fishing-boats that have returned home express themselves as well satisfied with the results of their East Coast herring voyage. The highest earnings by the boats from the Fife meet were taken by the Vanguard of Cellardyke, which had over £600. The Burghead boats average £460, and several have between £600 and £700. The Arbroath crews also report that they have done well at Yarmouth.

Private Fergus Hughes, of H Company Black Watch, writing to his father Pittenweem from Ladybrand, of date 22^nd October last, says:-“The last time I wrote I was at Winburg. We left there and went south, when we fell in with some Boers and caught them napping. We took 30 of their waggons. They then went north, and that changed our direction, too. We turned about and chased after them, and chased them up the Walsh River, where we halted for three days waiting orders. On the last day we were there, a heavy dark cloud came over our camp, which sent forth four peals of thunder accompanied by lightning. One of the flashes struck our camp, killing one man and injuring four others. It was the worst sight ever I saw.  The man killed was struck by the lightning on the head. It knocked the crown out of his hat, and, passing down through his body, carried off the soles of his boots, the uppers being left intact on his legs. One of the four injured was not expected to recover; but the other three – were not quite so bad. Where they were struck they had no feeling. All the men hurt belonged to A and B Companies, who were about 15 yards from my Company (H). I do not think that one hundred 5-inch guns could have made more noise than that thunder did.

We next went to Kroonstad and trained for Bloemfontein, where we stopped for one night, and who should I meet but John Bayne of Cellardyke. I was surprised when I met him, and went to his shop and roomed with him. I had long talk of the old home, &c. I told him that when he wrote to let you know that we had met, and that his mother would have to excuse me for not writing, having little time. After leaving Bloemfontein we went across to Ladybrand, and now H Company is six miles out of town, stuck on the top of hill. The rest of the regiment is quartered in town. We are not doing much marching now, hut we have plenty of duty – one night in bed and the other in outpost”

1902

Anstruther – . Launch. There was launched from the boatbuilding premises of Mr Millar on Monday a large first-class fishing boat, built to the order of Mr W. Reid, Cellardyke. As she left the weighs, she was named the “Elsie Reid” Miss Jeannie Reid, daughter of the owner, performed the christening ceremony. The boat, which is an excellent model, will ready for the coming winter fishing, which commences in January. N.B She was Registered ML 117

1903

The reconstruction of Cellardyke Harbour is almost completed, but to make the place safe it is felt that a concrete jetty 72 feet long is required. Already £537 has been locally collected for the harbour repair, and grants received to the amount of £1284, but the total cost, including the jetty, will be £2114. As the district has subscribed considerably more than fourth, Kilrenny Council hopes the Fishery Board will give another £3oo, and application for this being made. (The harbour was destroyed in a storm about 5 years earlier)

1904

George Richards, booking clerk, N.B.R. Station, youngest son of Skipper David Richards. Pittenweem, is to be married on Wednesday, 14th December, to Miss Ruvie, Cellardyke.

CELLARDYKE HARBOUR CONTRACT. CLAIM AGAINST KILRENNY TOWN COUNCIL. The record was closed yesterday, and parties ordered to be heard on 8th December, in the action raised against the Town Council of Kilrenny, being the harbour authority for Cellardyke Harbour, by Messrs Adam & Co, contractors, Glasgow, for the balance due on their account under the contract for work at the harbour amounting to £166 5s 8d, the sum of £13 for lighting the harbour, and £217 12s of additional claims.

 In their answers respondents state that the contract contained no weather clause, and the petitioners undertook the risk of delay arising through unfavourable weather or otherwise. They explained that they took the whole of the year 1903 and six months of 1902 to complete the work. They admitted that during the progress of the works several alterations were made on the original plans, and that during the execution of the works part of the work, executed was occasionally washed away and had to be rebuilt. For pursuers—Mr R. O. Pagan, W.S., Cupar; for respondents—Mr J. E. Grosset, Cupar.

1905

ANSTRUTHER. The Return of the Boats.—A telegram was received in Anstruther on Wednesday stating that the Cellardyke boat Lillian Scott (Skipper Philip Gardner) had landed take 120 crans Yarmouth. The fish were sold 23s 6d per cran, the catch therefore bringing up the boat’s total earnings by £140. Several of the boats have already arrived home from the south, while others experienced heavy weather, and so put into Shields. A number are expected home the end of the week.

Nursing Lecture.— The first of course of six lectures on nursing promoted by the County Council Technical Education Committee was given by Nurse Macdonald in Cellardyke Town Hall on Tuesday evening. Provost Black introduced Nurse Macdonald to good audience, and a very interesting and instructive lecture was delivered.

Wreck or the Cornucopia.— On Saturday the Fishery Baud cruiser Brenda arrived off Anstruther, and reported that a mast had been observed sticking out of the water about 11 miles south of the North Carr Lightship. After several attempts two masts, crutch, blocks, and ropes were recovered and taken to Granton. It is supposed that the wreckage belongs the Cellardyke fishing boat, Cornucopia (Skipper Thomas Bett), which was sunk near the Carr by H.M.S. Speedwell, in February last.

1906

On Friday and Saturday fully 30 of Cellardyke fishing fleet which have been at the Yarmouth and Lowestoft herring fishing returned home. Compared with last year the return for their labours has bee-n small. The season the start promised well, but latterly the weather broke, and the sailing vessels could not get the fishing prosecuted. Their earnings range from £40 £360. The steam fishing vessels, the other hand, have been able to fish all the season, which has proved very successful to them. The highest was £1100 and the takings range from that figure down £200. They have still a week or two to go, and a big increase in their drawings may be looked for.

1909

CARNEGIE HERO FUND TRUSTEES GRANT AWARDS

FOR ACTS OF BRAVERY.

Carnegie Hero Fund Trustees, at their monthly meeting at Dunfermline granted a large number awards for acts of bravery. The awards included the following:- ………. Robert Brown, Cellardyke, received £5 for rescuing a boy from the Harbour there.