Author: cellaradmin

1921

CELLARDYKE FISHERMEN AND YARMOUTH SCHEME I DECLARE THAT IT IS UNFAIR TO SCOTSMEN. Cellardyke fishermen do not favour acceptance of the Yarmouth scheme in relation to the autumn fishing Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

The decision to have nothing to do with the scheme was agreed upon at a special meeting of the committee of the Cellardyke Branch of the Scottish Drift Net and Line Fishermen’s Association held in the Harbour Office, Anstruther. Mr Philip Gardner, chairman, presided.

After the various clauses were read, the Chairman said the scheme showed extreme selfishness on the part of the English representatives when the proposals were drawn up, which were very unfair to Scottish fishermen. The aim of the scheme was primarily to prevent a glut on the market, but he did not see how the proposals put forward would do that. If flags were hoisted at either of the ports no boats were to put sea before sunrise the morning following. That was all very well, but there was another rule which he considered would prove disadvantageous to Scottish fishermen, “That no herring drifters shall fish on Saturday nights between 3d October and 12th November, inclusive, nor leave their ports for the fishing grounds before sunrise on Sunday morning.” He objected to Sunday fishing. Scottish fishermen would not fish on Sundays, and the Englishmen knew that. Some Scotsmen might say they would do so, but he did not think they would, and that was where the hardship to Scotsmen would come in. Should the flag be hoisted to prevent fishing on Friday and lowered in time to allow Sunday fishing the English boats might return on Monday morning with sufficient fish to again cause the flag to be hoisted. That meant that Scottish fishermen would lose a few days’ fishing.

Another point was that fishing was prohibited until 12th November. Here again the English fishermen would benefit, as most of the Scottish boats would have departed to other fishing grounds in Scotland by 12th November. Still another point was that English drifters carry 100 nets and over, while Scottish drifters carry only 70 nets and motor boats 63 nets.

He suggested the following amendments

No Sunday fishing. Saturday fishing all the year round.

A maximum number of 70 nets to each vessel.

Unless they adopted such measures they would not free the markets for next year, and clear markets were necessary if the fishing industry was to gain prosperity.

The Secretary (Mr A. Cunningham) was instructed to convey the decision to the Association’s headquarters at Aberdeen.

PUZZLE FOR EAST FIFE SKIPPERS. PAYMENT PILOTAGE CLAIMS.

Early this year the announcement was made by the Admiralty that applications for the payment of claims for pilotage were awaited from skippers in command of trawlers and drifters in H.M. Service during the war.

Later it was suggested that payments might be made through the treasurer of the National Sailors’ and Firemen Union. If this was agreed upon authority for this method of payment should be given by the skippers in regard to their respective claims.

A large number of claimants belong the East of Fife district, where, with few exceptions, the skippers of Cellardyke, Anstruther, Pittenweem, and St Monans held command in H.M. Service. Anxious to secure the money to which they were entitled, they obtained the necessary forms, and sanction was given to the union officials to take payment of claims.

Judge of the surprise of the skippers when a letter was received from the Union stating that as the claimants were non-union men the claims could not be dealt with.

This decision has given rise to considerable dissatisfaction amongst the war-time skippers, especially at Cellardyke, and they trying to solve the problem of how to collect their claims, for although many have been forwarded to different quarters no notice appears to have been taken of them.

NEW METHOD OF SELLING CATCHES AGREED ON BY CELLARDYKE FISHERMEN.

Cellardyke fishermen are at present putting their “house in order.” For some time past it has been felt that the method of disposing of the catches at Anstruther Harbour has been unsatisfactory, and it is alleged by the fishermen to have been the means of keeping down the price per cran.

An attempt is to be made to alter the existing conditions, and to make arrangements for the change a meeting of fishermen was held in Cellardyke Town Hall.

Councillor Philip Gardner, who, although retired from fishing activities, takes a practical interest in the welfare of the fishermen, was called to the chair, and explained that the object of the meeting was to consider whether at next winter’s fishing at Anstruther herring should be sold through salesmen by bell or whether they should keep to the old method of selling privately to buyers making the highest bid on the piers.

If the meeting decided in favour of the bell method they would have to draw up rules and stick to them, and not only that, but they would have to stick to one another. He suggested that, if approved by the meeting, a small committee should be appointed to discuss the matter with the salesmen.

They would also require to fix the rate of commission for salesmen, but that could be left until later.

Skipper Martin Gardner supported the new proposal. Under the old system, he said, many fishermen were kept hanging round the piers all morning waiting on a bid, when under the bell method they would be able to go home and get a few hours’ rest. He moved that the meeting adopt the bell method. (Applause.)

Skipper Lock Horsburgh said he had been told by two or three stranger buyers that the bell was introduced they would come to Anstruther; if not, they would go to other ports. He supported the motion. Under the old method was sometimes difficult to know what the bid was and who made the bid.

Making More Competition.

He also instanced a case where boat came to Anstruther Harbour and the skipper had to go through all the town to get buyer to take them. The bell method would make competition more keen, and the fishermen would not suffer through that. It was at least worth a trial.

The Chairman asked if anyone present was against the bell method.

Skipper Horsburgh —I don’t suppose any of the fishermen will be against it. The buyers might be against it. (Laughter.) Fear was expressed by several fishermen present that all the fishermen might not stick together, and that a number would sell privately.

After further discussion, the Chairman’s suggestion to appoint a committee to confer with the salesmen was approved, and the following were elected: —Messrs Martin Gardner, Lock Horsburgh, John Martin, Robert Anderson, T. Reid, John Muir, R. Gardner, and the Chairman. Thereafter the Committee met the salesmen in the Harbour Office, Anstruther, when it was agreed to adopt the bell system, and the commission of the salesmen was fixed.

The Committee was authorised to take steps, as far as legally could, to prevent any fishermen deviating from the rules laid down.

ANSTRUTHER PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY.

Mr J. Harrison Cooper, A.R.C.M., Kirkcaldy was reappointed conductor at the annual general meeting of Anstruther Philharmonic Society. Mr Cooper’s work last year was most successful and highly appreciated.

It was resolved to revise the Messiah for a rendering at Christmas, in addition to the main study, which this session is to be the oratorio, “Creation” (Haydn).

Provost Black, Cellardyke, who tendered his resignation as president and intimated would be unable take part this winter as an active member, was unanimously elected an honorary president of Society.

It was agreed to invite Miss Nellie Davidson to again give services as accompanist. The Society’s financial statement showed credit balance of about £6 on the year’s working.

1910

On Wednesday last week a company of five hundred Liberals from Anstruther, Crail, Cellardyke, and Pittenweem held an, excursion Dunfermline. After having- visited the various places of interest in the burgh, the party proceeded Pittencrieff Glen, and in the Glen Teahouse they were entertained as the guests of Mr J. Duncan Millar, M.P. for St Andrews Burghs, and Mrs Millar, both of whom were present. Both the member and the Liberal Organiser for St Andrews Burghs (Mr David Douglas) were assiduous in their attentions to the guests. After tea, the host addressed few remarks to his guests from the front of the band kiosk. He expressed his wife’s and his own pleasure seeing so many of his friends from Anstruther and district. Pittencrieff Park knew politics, and was not to trouble them that day with politics. Perhaps it was just well. They were in dull season. They were experiencing what in nautical phrase might termed a flat calm as far as politics were concerned. (Laughter.) He was glad so many of their staunch Liberal friends had been able to take part in that outing, and he expressed a feeling of confidence that should any squalls appear on the political horizon, they would repeat the political achievement of the last election…….

1911

Estates

James Fortune, draper 9 George Street – £1241 0s 3d

CELLARDYKE Pretty Wedding in Parish Church. —The Parish Church presented a pretty scene on Wednesday afternoon, the occasion being- the uniting wedlock of Miss Maggie Melville, youngest daughter of our much respected townsman, ex- Councillor Melville, Crana, to Edward Albert Neilson, Wellington, New Zealand. The officiating was the Rev. James Ray, M.A., parish minister. The musical part of the service was tastefully rendered by the church choir, Miss Robina Oliphant presiding at the organ with her usual ability. There were about 70 guests present besides a fairly large congregation. Messrs P. Davidson, A. Donaldson, and G. Melville acted as ushers. The centre of the area of church was reserved for invited guests, and the general congregation were at the sides and in the gallery. To the strains of the ‘Wedding March’ and leaning on the arm her father, the bride proceeded to the altar. She looked very sweet in a handsome gown of white satin with tunic of richly flowered tamboured net. Her veil of tulle had each comer filled in with flowers worked in filosette wreath of orange blossoms, and she carried a bouquet of carnations and sweet peas. The two bridesmaids (nieces of the bride). Miss Nellie Davidson and Miss Maud Melville, were dressed alike in white silk delaine with pink spot, pink and white silk girdles, and white hats lined with pink silk and trimmed flowers. They wore gold curb bracelets the gift of the bridegroom, and carried baskets of flowers. The bridegroom was accompanied W. J. Feltham Wellington, New Zealand, as groomsman. Amongst those present were:—Mrs Melville (mother of the bride) in block satin dress with tunic of black net richly beaded in maroon and crystal, toque of black crin and feathers with headings introduced to match dress ; Mrs P. Davidson (sister of the bride), steel grey satin charmeuse gown, veiled in net, large black hat and feathers ; Mrs A. Donaldson (sister of the bride), gown of gobelin cloth trimmed gold and black, large white satin hat with black aigrettes ; Mrs John Hodge, Cape Town, South Africa (sister of the bride), grey satin charmeuse gown with black satin trimming, black crinoline hat wreathed in pink roses veiled in net; Mrs T;. Melville (sister-in-law), dress of amethyst cashmere, black hat with plumes ; Mrs Millar, Mansefield, handsome gown of prune coloured velvet, black hat with plumes ; Mrs A. Watson, Craigholme, pale grey silk voile, hat of black mirror velvet trimmed black and white wings ; Mrs D. Mitchell, Lanrick, white embroidered Princess dress, black girdle, and large black hat; Miss Innes in shrimp pink cloth, wide Oriental trimmings and black satin, black crinoline hat with black and pink Lancer plumes Mrs Band, pale tussore dress trimmed blue, black hat with pink rosebuds ; Miss Melville, Glasgow (cousin of the bride), pale blue crepe over silk, tucked, and collar of chiffon with a yoke of lace, touches of pink Oriental trimming, hat, Luxemburg black velvet, pale blue plumes ; Mrs John Hodge, sen., black figured silk dress, grey feather boa, and black bonnet with white osprey; Mrs John Taylor, black silk taffeta dress, black crinoline hat relieved with white ; Mrs Hanning, Edinburgh (aunt of the bride), black dress and bonnet relieved with helio ; …………. …..A reception was afterwards held at Crana, the residence of the bride’s parents. The presents, which wore both numerous and costly, included the following – Cheque, bride’s father and mother; cheque, bridegroom’s father and mother; cheque, bridegroom’s brothers; cheque and marble clock, Mr G. Melville; case of knives, T,. Melville; case of cutlery, Mr and Mrs P. Davidson; fish knife and fork, and Mrs Hodge, South Africa; silver tea service, Mr and Mrs Donaldson ; silver afternoon tea service, Mrs Stuart; silver salver, T. Donaldson ; handsome picture, Mr and Mrs D. Mitchell and Mr and A. Watson; handsome eider down quilt, Mr and Mrs Lindsay etc. The bride’s travelling dress was of grape-coloured crepe-de-chine, long coat pale grey satin charmeuse, with large hat to match, trimmed with flowers and fruit.

1914

At meeting in Cellardyke Town Hall Saturday, Provost Black presented Thomas Watson, cooper, with the Royal Humane Society’s parchment in recognition of his having rescued boy named Wm. Mason, who wae in danger of drowning Cellardyke.

1916

MILITARY MEDAL FOR CELLARDYKE DRUMMER. The Military Modal has been awarded to Drummer Harry Torrens Anstruther Bowman, Black Watch This information was contained a letter received from Brigadier-General T. Campbell.

 Drummer Bowman is the youngest son of Mr Joseph Bowman, fisherman, John Street, Cellardyke, and 21 years of age. He was a member of the Territorial Force, and volunteered for active service shortly after war broke out. He was then serving his apprenticeship a painter with Mr D. Walker, Anstruther. Mr Bowman has two sons on active service in the Naval Reserve as mine-sweepers.

FIFE FISHERMEN ARE FINED For Not Observing Forth Regulations.

William Murray, skipper of the fishing vessel Nil Desperandum, residing at Fowler Street, Cellardyke; William Watson, skipper of the fishing vessel Midlothian, residing at 16 East Forth Street, Cellardyke, and James Davidson, skipper of the fishing vessel Oceanic, Cellardyke, all admitted—before Hon. Sheriff-Substitute Osborne —at Cupar today having, on August 17th between 9 and 10 p.m. contravened the pilotage and traffic regulations by anchoring in the Firth of Forth, close to the land eastwards Crail.

The Fiscal said they had been at Aberdeen, and, although they had the instructions beside them, they had failed to read them. The Sheriff said the regulations must observed, and ignorance them was no excuse.

They would each be fined £1, or ten days’ imprisonment.

1917

Blackwatch casualty list

…. Nicol 290636 G  (Cellardyke)

1918

St Andrews Prisoners of War Help Committee

Care Committee, 7^th Black Watch

The Committee gratefully acknowledge the following sums received during the week ended August 31^st

Donations

…………….

Mr and Mrs Cormack , Cellardyke. £1 5s 0d

Mrs W Brown Cellardyke  20s

1919

INTERESTING RE-UNION OF OLD COMRADES.

A pleasant reunion of old comrades on the invitation of Major J. A. Ness, Surrey, late officer commanding the 63rd Protection Coy.. RDC.. was held in the Station Hotel, Kirkcaldy, Thursday evening. The assemblage was made up of Supernumerary Coys. The Queens, Queen’s Own, and Black Watch, the latter composed of Kirkcaldy and East of Fife men, who went to Brighton in January. 1915 under the late Captain Black, Cellardyke. The company did guard duties on munition works and prisoners of war camps in Surrey and Kent……….

1865

12 CARTE DE VISITE PORTRAITS FOR 2s 8d, OR 6 FOR 1s 8d.

SEND Carte de Visite and 32 Stamps, and 12 Perfect Copies will be returned within Fourteen days ADDRESS

J. PORTER, CELLARDYKE,

ANSTRUTHER. Lynch Law in the East of Fife. -In the early part of Monday afternoon, the west end of the neighbouring town of Cellardyke was the scene of a most extraordinary and singular occurrence, so far, at least, as the East Neuk is concerned. At the time in question, a notorious character, of the name of James Haggart, better known by the sobriquet of “Abernethy,’ was seen entering the town of Cellardyke, where public feeling was running very strongly against him in consequence of his being implicated in a case of a peculiarly bad and heartless nature. Whether the matter had been preconcerted or not, we are unable to state, but no sooner had he made his appearance than the women in the neighbourhood gathered together and began to give unmistakable expression to their anger and abhorrence by hooting and pelting him with stones. Quailing before the fury of his assailants, the craven attempted to beat a retreat, but he was no match for his nimble- tongued, nimble-limbed pursuers, who continued to shower upon him whatever of hard missile or foul epithet that came readiest in the way. In this manner he reached the top of the road at Caddies Burn, when he was either struck down by a stone, or, what was more probable, he pretended to lie under the influence of liquor, and so cast himself, in apparent helplessness, on the ground. This clumsy appeal, however, to move their compassion, was treated with utter disdain by his female adversaries – who had now increased to hundreds— for, amidst a perfect Babel of mingled screams of laughter and yells of execration, they crowded around the prostrate wretch. In a twinkling he was almost buried beneath a mass of potato stems and earth, which were brought by right willing hands from the adjoining field, and a cooling sedative was also now and then administered m the shape of sundry bucketful’s of water. The noise and confusion drew large numbers to the spot, but the graver portion of the community, when they saw that neither life nor limb were in any great danger, moved quietly on when they ascertained the cause, or remained the passive, if not amused, spectators of the extraordinary hubbub. The sympathies of some Highland halfdealsmen were, however, more active than those of the townsfolk, for after a vigorous attempt these “children of the mist” at length succeeded in rescuing the drenched and forlorn- looking outcast from the vengeance of the “Lynchers,” many of whom seemed half mad with frolic and excitement. The assistance of the Bobbies was ultimately obtained, and under the safe escort of those liveried footmen of the law he was majestically marched off to the lock-up, followed of course by an immense train of men, women, and children. While on their triumphal progress, the heroines who made themselves so conspicuous in this rough and ready administration of justice were vociferously cheered by the large groups of halfdealsmen and others lounging about the shore -a compliment which bashfulness did not prevent them from returning with gratitude and effect.

So far as we can learn, no bodily injury was sustained by the victim of popular rage, although it is to be hoped that the sharp reproof which he has received will have the effect of making him a wiser and better man for the future, and that it will also be a warning to others that the inhabitants of Cellardyke will not with impunity allow their town to be insulted and dishonoured by practices that make the cheek of humanity blush with shame and resentment.

1866

……… a large number of the fishermen of Pittenweem and St Monance participated in the disgrace which attaches to their conduct on Sunday, yet there were many in both towns who earnestly denounced it, and by so doing have joined their testimony with the enlightened and exemplary fishermen of Cellardyke in favour of the due observance of the Sunday. A cry is being raised in some quarters for the interference the authorities, but in our opinion the evil could be best met and remedied by the Christian Church applying those agencies for the moral and spiritual improvement of the fishing population, by which alone they can be guided and kept in the path of duty.

1867

Most of the Cellardyke boats have this week returned from the north, and taken successful part in the fishing at the “Haikes.” Large, however, as the shoal has been this place, it has been very limited as compared with former years, and the profits of the fishermen have been very much curtailed by the loss of nets caused the crowding which has taken place to obtain good berths on the limited area, where the herrings were only to found. From this cause the success has been no means general, for while some crews have drawn on one occasion as many as forty and fifty crans out of part of their nets, and have left the rest equally well fished until they should return from selling their first take, others have been mortified drawing in their nets nearly as bare when cast from the boat. The large quantities of herrings which have been discharged during the week at all the harbours of the east of Fife has imparted stirring animation to the shores, which pleasingly contrasts with the dull and deserted appearance they have exhibited in the former part of the season.

1869

On Thursday several fine takes were brought in Anstruther harbour by Buckhaven and Largo boats from the famous Pepper Sands, near Dunbar, where a large shoal of herring had set in on the previous day. The fishermen had only cast their nets that morning about seven o’clock, and in little more than two hours had drawn them well fished, when they stood over to Anstruther with a steady westerly breeze in the hope of better price than was likely be got on the south shore. Most unfortunately the Cellardyke and nearly all the other district boats are away in the north when the harvest has come to their very doors, but as the telegraph has been promptly put into operation it is expected that many will hasten to the Firth fishing without delay. With regard to our local fleet, little or nothing has been done this week. About ninety boats came up between Friday and Saturday evening, several of which had good takes, especially the latest arrivals; but being detained at sea by calms and adverse winds, it was almost daylight on Sunday morning before they could be discharged. One crew, who had a take of forty barrels, pickled their fish instead of accepting the current price of 10s a barrel, and their enterprise met with its well-deserved reward, they sold their herrings on Monday morning at 15s barrel.

1860

The following cases were disposed of Sheriff Taylor

David Watson, carter, Cellardyke, a poor infirm old man. Upwards of seventy years of age, and evidently in his dotage, was placed at the bar charged with stealing a store weight or thereby of hay from a field near Ovenstone Muir, occupied by the Rev. Anstruther Taylor, minister of Carnbee. Mr Davidson, writer, appeared as agent for the accused. From the poor old man’s appearance – he being scarcely able to support himself on his own legs it was quite evident that could not have carried a stone of hay from a field and thrown it into a cart; and the Sheriff, after hearing Mr Davidson’s statement of the case (the Fiscals not insisting on a conviction), gave David a suitable admonition, and dismissed him from the bar.

John Elder, labourer, Cellardyke, accused of stealing a man’s shirt from William Fowler’s park, pled guilty, and was sentenced to thirty days’ imprisonment.

Thomas Robertson, designed carter, but whose occupation that a cooper, Cellardyke, charged with galloping a horse through the streets of Anstruther Easter, pled guilty, and was fined 20s,  with alternative fifteen days imprisonment;

1861

Gas Company.- A meeting of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Gas Co. was held on Thursday evening. An application was made by the Deacons’ Court of the Free Church to have the gas extended to the Free Church manse. It appeared that Mr Oliphant of Mayview House, had, some years ago, paid £8, his proportion of the expenses, in extending the gas-pipes to his house, which is the suburbs of the town, and the question was whether he was entitled to any compensation, as the pipes would only have to be conducted from his pipes to the Free Manse, which is almost adjoining. After a lengthened discussion, it was resolved that the Deacons’ Court would pay the proportion of expenses of laying the pipes from Oliphant’s, as it was considered that the pipes, when down, belonged to the Company.

Herring Fishing.- We are sorry we have to report the failure, or rather the unsatisfactory state of last week’s fishing. ………………. At same date last year, the number of crans caught was 24,000, while for this season there are only about 5000, being a decrease of 19,000 crans, and for the district there is a decrease of 37,000 crans, there being, up to this date, only 11,000 crans. If the weather does not change for the better, and allow the fishermen to get a fair chance before the season is over, to try and make up the loss, it will undoubtedly tell against the prosperity of this and other fishing places. We may add that there are present lying in our harbour, for the purpose of buying and curing, four Irish luggers, one Belgian, and one Dutchman ; there were some others, but they, seeing the unfortunate turn the fishing had taken, have left.

One week later

August 28.—The fishing here to-day has turned out exceedingly well, and several very heavy shots have been lauded. Several of the boats have takes ranging from sixty to seventy crans, and one boat has just come into Cellardyke loaded to the gunwale, and cannot have less than 100 crans.

1863

CELLARDYKE. EXPOSURE OF PROPERTY. -On Saturday last several properties situated in this place, and a house-wrights shop, &c. in Kilrenny were exposed for sale by public auction at the Town-hall here. There was a large attendance; but, although the upset price of most of the subjects was considerably reduced no offers were made. This was doubtless to the present unsatisfactory state of the fishing, as, from the eligible nature and situation the properties here- three 0f which were building sites—ready sales might have been reasonably anticipated.

1864

Boat Found Sea. —On Wednesday, the French fishing-lugger “B. 760” found a fishing-yawl floating in the neighbourhood of the Bell Rock, which they took in tow and brought into Cellardyke harbour. The boat was given into the custody of the Coast-Guardsmen stationed here. She is tarred inside and out, with a white paint streak under the gunwales, and appears to be old and much decayed. There is name mark to indicate her owners or where she may have belonged.

ANSTRUTHER. Sabbath Desecration.— About dawn on Sunday morning, fifteen Pittenweem boats, which had gone to the fishing ground the previous afternoon, returned to that harbour with takes ranging from one to thirty crans. It is currently rumoured that, in some instances, the fishermen were offered by certain curers a stated price for what fish they might obtain before they sailed from the harbour ; but, be this as it may, few local curers, with an Irish and a Belgian buyer, became participators in the disgraceful procedure of the fishermen, by purchasing their produce and, for a time, the quiet of the Sunday was interrupted the noise of carts driving the herrings to the several stations, and by the operation of salting and packing them into barrels. of course, contagious ; and it is, therefore, not surprising that, in the course of the afternoon and evening, about thirty-six boats left the harbours Pittenweem and St Monance for the fishing-ground, where they were joined by a number of crews from Broughty Ferry, Largo, &c. The shameful and illegal conduct of all the parties implicated in the matter has since been a subject of general comment throughout the district, and by none has it been more emphatically condemned than by many of the local fishermen. “We understand that all the circumstances connected with it have been brought under the cognizance of the Fishery Board, by Mr Gillies, the fishery officer of the district; and it is also affirmed that some influential gentlemen are in communication with the directors of the Sabbath Alliance on the subject, so that there is every probability that besides the odium they have deservedly incurred, the parties will receive the exposure and punishment of a legal prosecution. It is much to the credit of the fishermen of Cellardyke that none of them were concerned in these scandalous proceedings, but with that propriety and correctness of morals that honourably distinguishes this advanced and flourishing fishing community, they set an example to their neighbours, which it would be well for them were it more closely imitated.

1851

TO HARBOUR CONTRACTORS.

THE HONOURABLE the COMMISSIONERS of the BOARD of FISHERIES are ready to receive Offers for the execution of QUAY WALL, and the EXCAVATION of ROCK at the HARBOUR CELLARDYKE, in FIFESHIRE.

The Plan and Specification the Works may be seen on application to Mr Fowler. Cellardyke or to Messrs’ Stevenson, Civil Engineers, Edinburgh, the Engineers to the Board.

Sealed Tenders, marked “for Cellardyke Harbour Works,” may be sent to the Honourable B. F. Primrose, Secretary the Board, Royal Institution, Edinburgh, on or before the first of September next. Satisfactory security will be required, and the lowest offer not necessarily to be accepted. Board of Fisheries, Edinburgh, August 1851.

1855

A Fishing Boat Capsized, and Four Lives Lost.- It is our painful duty to have to record another lamentable occurrence, accompanied with loss of life, connection with the fishing. On Monday night about eight o’clock, a boat belonging to this place, the Venus,  left the “Auld Haikes’ to proceed homeward with between seventy and eighty crans of herring on board. A strong head wind was blowing at the time. The crew comprised the following individuals, viz., Adam Reid, senior, belonging to Cellardyke, and his two sons, Adam and William, the latter boy about eight years of age ; Kenneth McLeod, Isle of Sky ; James Malcolm, Dundee ; and David Laing from Arncroach in this district, half-deals-men. Adam Reid, senior, was skipper of the boat. Betwixt nine and ten o’clock, when off Crail the boat was struck by two tremendous seas in succession, which capsized her, but she did not sink. The crew clung to different parts of the unfortunate vessel for about an hour, when the skipper and Kenneth McLeod were washed off. The other three men continued to hang on by the wreck for nearly other two hours—the elder brother Reid nobly supporting the poor young boy, his brother—when at last their cries attracted the attention the crew of a St Monance boat, under the charge of William Mathers, who immediately put to their assistance, and when just about so near to be able to give them relief James Malcolm was washed off, and the young boy had ceased to exist. David Laing and Adam Reid, junior, had ropes attached to their persons and were hauled on board, the latter taking along with him the lifeless body of his brother. They were conveyed to Anstruther with all the speed that contrary wind would allow, and the two men saved are now recovering. We believe that the crew of the ill-fated boat had some misgivings, before leaving the “Auld Haikes,” that their cargo was too heavy to allow them to get home with ease, owing to the strong gale.

1856

Number boats fishing at each station: Anstruther and Cellardyke, 133; Pittenweem, S3; 8t Monance. 54; Crail, 10; Largo, 7; Buckhaven, 97 ; besides a few strangers who come here frequently, but those of the two latter places are still fishing Dunbar except on Saturdays when they return home with that day’s catch.

The following is the result of the fishing at this station during the past week—including Anstruther, Cellardyke, Pittenweem, St Monance, and Crail;

July        29, Boats out,    247;       highest. 3;          average,              ¼

30                         247;                       5                                         ¼           

31                          247                       15                                         1

August 1                             247                       18                                         3

2                            248                       31                                         4

 Average for the season, 10 ¼ crans.

1859

The stimulus imparted to fisheries by the rapidity of railways laying the markets 0f all the large towns open to the coasts for the supply of fresh fish, has raised an urgent demand for deep water harbours,-so that the boats may get in at any time of tide to deliver their catch, and which are also most needful t0 the safety of the fishermen, who, as yet, have no ports of refuge that can be taken at low water. These considerations have stirred the towns of Anstruther and Cellardyke to unite their common interest, and to move the Board of Fisheries to co-operate with them in erecting a deep-water harbour there. Before the fishermen at Cellardyke consented to waive their claim for a separate harbour, the site of Craig-noon, near at hand, had been fixed upon by them, and surveyed at their request.; but though possessed of some capabilities, it gave no promise of a harbour .equal in convenience or accessibility to that of Anstruther improved, and it perhaps owing to the results of the survey, that the parties saw that their real interests lay, not in moving for separate harbours, and thus frittering away their money, but in applying extensive improvements to the harbour of Anstruther, which’ could be thus made to serve both towns, and a populous fishing neighbourhood besides.

Accordingly, an enlargement of Anstruther Harbour, with the designation given to it of the Union, Harbour, has been planned by Messrs. Stevenson, the engineers of the Board, and its design has met with general satisfaction and approval.

The erection of a harbour of this description at Anstruther has been recommended by the Harbour of Refuge Commission; but, again, the funds are a wanting for its execution. Its estimated cost is £30,000, a large sum to raise; nevertheless, there appear to be means available for effecting a loan, which, with assistance from the Board of Fisheries, may, at no very distant day, enable this work to be executed.

1838

Herring-Fishing.—For these last 4 or 5 days a considerable number of boats from this and the adjacent ports of Pittenweem, St Monance, and Cellardyke, have been prosecuting the herring-fishing in the Firth of Forth ; and, from the success they have hitherto experienced, we are led anticipate a more abundant fishing than a cadger drove. We have occasionally seen several boats with upwards of a couple of crans, and some with 5 or 6, and, taking them all in all, we have no hesitation in saying that the Forth fishing, so far as it has gone, has been a more remunerating concern for the fishermen than their friends have met with, by all accounts we can learn, at the different fishing stations in the Moray Firth—a good many quantities of herrings having been disposed of here, at 28s. and 30s. per barrel; and the lowest price of which we have heard having been offered being 24s., and precisely double the highest prices obtained at the north country fishing this season, by boats from Cellardyke. The quality of the fish hitherto taken is decidedly of the most superior order; and we have seen on very few occasions such an extra demand for fish, and such a general desire to make the supply equal to the demand, no fewer than from 70 to 80 boats having this night been counted in the offing the trade. We wish them all cordial success.

A couple of days later higher landings and prices drop

CELLARDYKE, August 7.-There has been a good fishing this morning. Upwards of 100 boats are engaged, and some brought in as high as twenty crans. The cadgers are paying 16s. per cran, and the curers 14s. to 15s. Ten and twelve crans to a boat was a general take this morning.

1839

The previous year’s summer drave had been unprecedented.. (reports appearing in the paper a week after the events)

Cellardyke, Tuesday, July 30—About 80 boats set their nets last night, and the returns this morning are from one to seven crans. The fishing ground about half way between the Isle of May and the Fife shore. Prices 20s per cran.—3lst July. Between and 100 boats compose the fleet this morning. The fishing has been successful for the early period of the season, many boats having taken 12 crans, which they have disposed of at per cran. The fishing has a most promising appearance, on account of the superior quality of the Frith herrings. The fish curers are begun to purchase cure at the above price.

1841

A boat from Broughty ferry, to prosecute the herring fishing , arrived at Eyemouth on Wednesday, bringing along with her a fleet of sixteen herring-nets , which were found drifting in the Cove Bay , with about a fathom of swing attached to them. The letters on the bladders are S.T.J.M, and J .C with C.D. below each name, supposed to be for Cellardyke. How this misfortune has happened none can tell but it is generally supposed that some vessel has run foul of the boat, and the safety of the men is much feared.

1842

ANSTRUTHER, The Lammas herring fishing commenced along the coasts of Fife on Tuesday morning, when appearances were very favourable. Although the first trial for the season, it is certain there is abundance of fish on the coast, from the quantity taken by each boat bringing in less or more, than a few hundreds of herrings to three crans, and the quality is very superior. Considerable preparations are being made; but a number of stations are still to let. The Buckhaven boats made their appearance on Monday evening at the fishing ground. There are sixty boats from Cellardyke.

1901

At Anstruther Burgh Court Monday, Thos. Murray, jun., fisherman. Shore Street, Cellardyke, was fined 15s, or 14 days, for breach of the peace committed in Shore Street on Saturday evening.

1905

A property in Tolbooth Wynd, Cellardyke, consisting of house, shop, and eight stalled stable, has been purchased by Mr George Kirkcaldy, butcher, for £713.

An Anstruther memorial.-there has just been erected in Shore Street, Anstruther on a  site at the foot of the  West Pier, fronting the harbour, a granite fountain to the memory of Mr S. Williamson, some time M.P. for the St Andrews Burghs, who was born at Cellardyke in 1827, and died at Copley, Cheshire, in 1903. The fountain has been put up by Archibald Williamson, Liverpool, as a memorial to his father.

1906

Crew Landed at Aberdeen

The steamer St Ninian, belonging to the North of Scotland Steam Navigation Company arrived in Aberdour last Friday with five members of the crew of fishing boat Puritan, of St Monance, which was wrecked on a reef of rocks off Green Holm, near Lerwick, during the severe storm about ten days ago. Those who were landed were James Wood skipper and owner the boat, St Monance; David Wood, 16 years, his son; Wm. Davidson, St Monance ; Thomas Swankey, Arbroath ; Patrick Rath, native of Ireland. Two of the members of the crew—Thomas Guthrie, St Monance who was badly injured; and Robert Smith, Arbroath left Lerwick for their respective homes several days ago. The crew of the Puritan had an exciting experience, and were in an exhausted condition when rescued by the steam drifter Vanguard 111., of Cellardyke (Mr Martin Gardener, skipper). The unfortunate men were taken to the Sailors’ Home on their arrival Aberdeen, and were provided with railway tickets to enable them to proceed to their homes.

1911

The cry in this district, like several other places in Scotland ‘this exceptionally dry season, is “More water.” In Pittenweem and the Anstruthers, where they have a joint supply, it has been agreed to get the old bore opened and pumping operations commenced. In Cellardyke they have had to resort opening several old wells which used to supply the community, but which have been closed since the present water supply was introduced. It is to be hoped that the present experience will the means the local authorities, once and for all, seriously facing the question of having an adequate supply, either jointly or severally, of good water, although there may be the usual grumbling by the discontented taxpayer.

1913

Mr Robert Ray, B.Sc. (St Andrews), son of the Rev. Mr Ray, the Manse, Cellardyke, who for the past year has been working on the Scientific Staff of the English Board of Agriculture and Fisheries, has just been appointed to the post of lecturer in Zoology in the University of South Africa, Cape Town. Besides taking high places other subjects, Mr Ray was doable medallist in the honour’s class in Zoology in St Andrews University. Recently he was awarded scholarship of £100 by the Carnegie Trustees to assist him the promotion of his research work in Liverpool. Mr Ray leaves for Cape Town about the middle of August to take up his new duties in the University there.

1914

The Journeys of Crabs

 The Dove Marine Laboratory, Cullercoats , Northumberland , has achieved a great many interesting results in its constant investigations of marine life , carried out under the able guidance of Professor Meek . The report of his work for the year ending June 30, 1913 , contains a most interesting account of an experiment in the migration of crabs , carried out over a period of three years 1902-1905 . About 800 crabs were marked and liberated, and after a lapse of two years a fairly accurate estimate of their movements was obtained, showing that the females moved far afield, invariably northwards ; while the males showed little tendency to move far in any direction , …… . The longest journey was performed by a female crab, which was captured in the Moray Firth, about 150 miles from home; two others were found near Stonehaven and Cellardyke respectively , and a number at St Abb’s . A mile a day was the maximum rate of progression, the average being about half a mile.

1900

Anstruther and Cellardyke have this vear been favoured with larger share of visitors than on previous years. During last week there were large numbers from Glasgow, and this week again Dundee and Edinburgh folks are to seen knocking round in even larger numbers.

1901

Mr Alexander Black, manufacturer, Cellardyke, has been appointed Provost of Kilrenny in room of Provost Thomson, resigned.

While the boat Venus Star, Cellardyke was some 40 miles E.N.E of Peterhead on Thursday evening, making for Fraserburgh, a carrier pigeon came aboard the craft, evidently in an exhausted condition. The bird had a rubber ring on its leg marked R 38 while its wing was stamped with the figure 4. The bird is now possession of the skipper of the boat, who is at present located here (Fraserburgh). It is assumed that the pigeon one those that took part in the recent Lerwick London race.

Fatal Accidents Enquiry. Monday an enquiry was held under the Fatal Accidents Enquiry Act, into the cause of the death of Thomas Reid, fisherman, Cellardyke, who was drowned on June last near the Brethren Rocks while on the passage from Lerwick to Cullivoe, off the boat Prospects Ahead, KY 1656. ……… William Sutherland deponed that he was 33 years of age, lived at John Street, Cellardyke, and was skipper of the boat Prospects Ahead, KY.1656. She was a first-class decked fishing boat, 31 tons burden, and 49 feet over stems. They had been engaged at the early herring fishing this year at Shetland, and left Cellardyke on 3rd June for Cullivoe. They carried no small boat, and had no lifebuoys on board. On their way to Cullivoe they passed through Lerwick harbour, where they arrived about on the morning of the 5^th June. They left at noon of the same day, but they took no small boat or lifebuoys from Lerwick. When they left the wind was SW. by S. and moderate. They had to run dead before the wind for some time, jibing the sail three or four times. After leaving Lerwick the wind increased, and when they were about1 ¼ or 1 ½  miles from the harbour they had to dip the sail to go on the starboard tack. After this had been done he ordered the sails to be set and two reefs taken in forward. After they had got the sail hoisted hand high—that was far as it could be got hand over hand, the haulyards were passed over the roller. The roller was fixed into a timber in the boat’s side. When the haulyards were put over the roller, deceased sat down on the gunwale and put his foot on a timber behind the block. Witness was inside the deck behind the deceased, and the others were sitting behind him. Deceased was on the gunwale, and while giving an extra haul on the haulyards and pulling with all his might, the haulyards slipped off the roller, were jerked out of his hand, and he went into the water. The boat was going about six knots an hour the time. Everything had been cleared up and stowed below, so there was nothing to throw to the man in the water. Witness threw the haulyards to him but that was of no use. Thomas Reid was the deceased’s name, and he was married, and 34 years of age, and the son of David Reid and Ann Burrows or Reid. They did not recover his body. The helm was put hard a-port to bring the boat to the wind, but about two minutes after the deceased went overboard he sank. Witness did not see him sinking, but he went to get a tackle and put it the sail when Alex. Johnson said to him “Ye needna care aboot it, Willie ; he’s awa,” They did not go back to the spot where the accident occurred, there being no use as the man had sunk.

By the Court—There was nothing to throw to the man in the water, and in the confusion they were all upset. There were oars on the boat’s deck they might have thrown to him, but they did not think of it at the time.

Q.—Do not fishing boats carry lifebuoys.

A. Winter boats carry lifebuoys, but summer herring fishing boats seldom do. There was nothing like a lump of cord or anything that sort about the deck that could throw in cases this kind.

Mr Fraser—Was the sail on the side the man fell over

1. —Yes; we were pulling on the weather side, and the sail was on the port side.

Alexander Johnson deponed that he was a miner, but went to the fishing as a hired hand. He was a hand on the boat Prospects Ahead, of Cellardyke, on 5^th June. After leaving Lerwick harbour on that date they were shortening sail of the Brethren rocks. After they shortened sail they had got the sail hand high, and then took the haulyards to the roller. Witness was standing behind the roller. Deceased was next the in setting up the sail the haulyards came out and he went overboard. The roller was about four inches in diameter and two inches above the deck. There was no catch on it to prevent the haulyards slipping. The roller was about five inches in length. Thomas Anderson (28), first hand on the Prospects Ahead, deponed that he resided at 25 Shore Street, Cellardyke, and along with Wm Sutherland owned the boat Thomas Reid had a share in the nets, and the rest of the crew were hired men. These men received a fifteenth share of the earnings. Reid would have got the same, and something extra for his nets. He then gave corroborative evidence as to how the accident happened. By the Court—The roller is of iron and just like the sheave of block. There was nothing it to prevent a rope slipping off. were trying to work the boat up to windward when they saw the accused had sunk, and therefore it was no further use.

Alex. Johnson (recalled) deponed that the man did not call out when he fell overboard. Witness saw him sink about two minutes from the time of his going into the water. He was about a mile and half from the boat when he sank.

The Sheriff—A mile and a half there must be something wrong there, if he was only two minutes in the water before he disappeared, and the boat going six miles an hour. He could not have been a mile and a half away.

Witness —It might have been a mile. I could not say exactly.

Q.—Did anyone else beside you see him sink ?

A.—Yes; William Sutherland.

Q.—How long did you spend looking for him

A.—l could not tell. Perhaps ten minutes or a quarter of an hour.

Q – None of you threw anything to him !

A.—No. Q, There was no small boat or lifebuoy or lifebelts !

A.—No ; there were oars about the deck, but none of us thought of throwing any

Andrew Gowans, miner, 64 Dewery Street, Methil, deponed that he was miner, but went to the herring fishing in the summer season. He gave corroborative evidence as to deceased falling overboard.

The Sheriff—How far was he from the boat when sank?

A.—About half a mile. There was nothing thrown to him, as we all lost our presence of mind in a case like that. We looked for him until he had sunk out of sight.

By Mr Fraser—The sail did not come down to the deck when the haulyards slipped off the roller, as the men held on and kept the sail up.

James Anderson, grocer’s assistant, Dove Street, Cellardyke, deponed that he was hand on the Prospects Ahead when the accident happened. He was steering the boat at the time, but owing to the mizzen sail he could not see ahead. He saw Reid being carried past the stern of the boat where he was sitting steering. The boat was travelling about six miles hour, and witness had nothing at his hand that he could throw to the man overboard. He put down the helm, and the boat came up to the wind, and she went to windward until they saw the man went down.

This concluded the evidence, and Mr Galloway addressed the jury, asking them to find a verdict in accordance with the evidence. Sheriff Moffatt then briefly addressed the jury, informing them that all they had to do was to find a verdict in terms of the prayer of the petition that deceased met with his death by accidentally falling overboard from the boat Prospects Ahead, about 11 miles from the Brethren rocks, and being drowned. In the course of his remarks he referred to these fishing boats not carrying lifebuoys. For safety, and possibly for the saving of life, there should be some lifebuoy or lifebelt, or something that would float, lying handy on the deck, which could be thrown by someone from the boat to anyone who chanced to fall into the water. There were oars on the deck of this boat, but the skipper told them they did not think of them at the time; and another of the crew said they lost their presence of mind. That was very unfortunate, but they could not be held blameworthy. The initial cause was the haulyards slipping over the end of the roller, and that could be made preventable by having something placed on the end so that they could not slip. But they—the jury—bad nothing to do with that. All they had to do was to record their opinion to how the death of the deceased Thomas Reid was caused. Without leaving the dock the .jury, through W. Dalgliesh, intimated that they found the accident had happened as stated in the Fiscal’s petition.

 1805

The Duck club of Cupar, Fife, have subscribed five guineas to the wives and families of the men who were unfortunately lost off Cellardyke; and example worthy of imitation.

1829

On Saturday morning last, a Cellardyke boat caught, with only a net or two, about eight dozen of fine herrings near the Island of May. And from the quantity of herring whales, as the fishermen call them, that are presently on the coast, there is little doubt but there are also plenty of herrings, It is a matter of regret that our respectable fish-curers do not engage a number of the boats to remain here instead of going’ to the north, as it is quite notorious that the fishing here has for these some years been lost for want of timely looking after

1831

The Commissioners for the fisheries lately granted £1200 to which the fishermen contributed £500 more to improve Cellardyke, or Kilrenny Harbour.

1837

I have reported on this accident for 3 years, this week the news reach the Irish Newspapers and was reported this way (the number of 20 was not the case)

On Saturday forenoon the herring-boat Johns of Cellardyke, John Sutherland, skipper, was wrecked whilst entering the little haven on the cast-side of the Isle of May, when no fewer than twenty-one individuals met watery grave. The circumstances, given to us by our correspondent at Dunbar, who was on the spot shortly after the sad accident happened as follows:—It is customary at this season of the year, and before the boats leave the various towns on the east-coast of Fife, for the herring fishery in the north, to visit the May Island on pleasure excursion. On the morning in question, a party, to the amount of between seventy and eighty consisting men, women, and children, embarked in the Johns, and after having coasted round the west and south side of the Island, in attempting to take the little harbour for the purpose of landing, the boat from the heaviness of the swell, and narrowness of the passage, was thrown upon a rock, and the wave receding, she fell over, filled, and went down. Numbers who were nearly exhausted, were carried to the apartments of the light keeper, where, by the attention and care of the inmates which deserves great commendation, they all recovered. The survivors, with the corpses found up to the time our informant left, ware conveyed in other boats to Cellardyke, where another scene of distress would take place over which humanity must drop a tear.

1840 (although this was June 13^th It was not published in the Derry Journal until July 14^th)

Cellardyke. June 13.—A large shoal of herrings has been discovered between the Bell Rock and Isle of May, and the boats which have been fishing for them near the latter island have been uncommonly successful, considering the mode of fishing adopted. One boat came today with 1,000, another with 600, and a third with 400 herrings—caught upon hooks, or jiggers, as they are called. Fishing with the net will be commenced next month and, from the number of whales and sea-fowl seen at the Eastward of the May, heavy fishing is looked forward to, at no distant day

1842

A few Cellardyke boats arrived here on the 12th inst., and, since that time, others are daily coming in from the Friths of Forth and Moray. By the first of next week, general gathering will have been made,- when it is expected they will outnumber that last year considerably. Highlandmen are appearing in bands, for the purpose of hiring; and the whole place will soon assume the usual animated appearance common to this season at Wick.

A Cellardyke boat, commanded by Alex Pratt, brought on shore the highest take yesterday morning, and the skipper was led to believe that he was entitled to the highest premium awarded by the Chamber of Commerce here; but, on inquiry, found it was reserved for native crews alone, who bring the first five crans ashore prior to the 16th of July. The Chamber, by this arrangement, save their money and their honour, for is rarely carried off by native crews; and, were it not for the spur given by the arrival of strangers, our Wick fishermen would, at that date, be only talking of making a trial. If the Chamber of Commerce be desirous to encourage early fishing, they should offer their premiums indiscriminately. Competition at all times is found to be the best stimulant to exertion.

1844

On Wednesday night last week, the “Benledi” Steamer on her way from Dundee to Granton, ran down a fishing yawl, off Cellardyke harbour. The yawl was lying at anchor and three boys were fishing in it, who stood and cried to those on board the steamer when they saw that she was coming right them. No notice of them was taken, however, and the steamer struck the boat cutting her right through. One of the boys got up on the paddles, and the other two were picked by the steamer’s boat. One of them a good deal bruised, having been struck by the paddles he supposes. It is very fortunate that nothing more serious occurred.

1948

“Sea Queen ” Crowned

Miss Margaret F. Donaldson, East Anstruther, was crowned “Sea Queen of Anstruther Burghs at Cellardyke Swimming Pool last night. She was elected by popular vote. The crowning ceremony, performed by Mrs Mitchell, wife of Bailie D. Mitchell, was watched by a crowd of over 3000. Provost Carstairs said it was hoped to hold an annual pageant and to develop the ceremonial side. Music was provided by the local Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band. A spectacular display of dancing was given by Dot Arlyn’s pupils.

1949

SHOP ASSISTANT WAS ANSTRUTHER’S QUEEN Miss Beatrice Brown, shop assistant, was crowned Sea Queen the united burghs 01 Anstruther on Saturday. In ceremony Cellardyke swimming pool the queen, with heralds, maids of honour, and attendants, was enthroned Miss M. Carstairs, sister of Provost W. W. Carstairs. The programme included a song-scene depicting fishers and workers of years ago. The queen was presented with a gift by Provost Carstairs, and last year’s queen, Miss Margaret Donaldson, received a box of chocolates from Mrs Mitchell. Miss Donaldson and Miss Carstairs also received bouquets, presented by Misses D Drinkwater and M. Melville. Anstruther Boy Scouts formed a guard of honour, and dances were given by pupils of Dot Arlyn, Anstruther. The ceremony was arranged by Cellardyke Improvements Association.