The Cellardyke Echo

1925

CHILD TOPPLES INTO CELLARDYKE HARBOUR. UNCLE’S DASH TO RESCUE. While playing the vicinity of Cellardyke harbour yesterday, John McLeod, the four-year-old son of John McLeod, Dove Street, toppled over the pier into deep The boy’s playmates recognised the danger he was in, and once informed his uncle, James McLeod shoemaker, Shore Street, who immediately rushed to the scene, plunged in, and succeeded bringing his nephew to safety. This is the second occasion on which Mr McLeod has been instrumental in saving life.

ENTANGLED IN LORRY WHEEL. BOY’S ORDEAL. A distressing accident occurred at Cellardyke on Tuesday, when John Jack, second youngest of the family four Mr and Mrs John Jack, James Street, was severely injured. The boy, who is about four years age. had been playing in the street during the morning, and had apparently endeavoured to cling to the rear of a coal lorry belonging Mr J. Marshall coal merchant, Anstruther, and driven by his son. The driver, who was travelling along the street slowly, ringing his bell announce the sale of his of coal, was quite unaware that the boy had become entangled amongst the spokes of the wheel. The noise of the bell drowned the lad’s cries, and the lorry had gone about yards before the incident was noticed by Mrs Queripel, George Street. The lorry was stopped once, and endeavour was made to extricate the boy, but at first without result. Realising the need for prompt action, William Woodward, John Street, secured a saw and assisted by George Gardner and others, cut away the spokes, and the unconscious child was carried into his grandmother’s house in John Street. Although the lad’s head, legs, and body had been entwined in the spokes of the wheel. Dr Wilson, on examination, found that no bones had been broken. The boy’s head however, had apparently been crushed.

1926

AIR FLIGHTS OVER FIFE BURGHS PROVE ANNOYANCE TO PUPILS AND TEACHERS Complaint to be Sent to Air Ministry ” Anstruther seems to be specially favoured with visits from aeroplanes, and I think that there must be some air pockets here that attract them,” said Mr McIvor at a meeting of No. 7 Anstruther district school management committee last night. The committee was asked by the Kilrenny, Cellardyke, and Anstruther sub-committee to” take into consideration the annoyance to the pupils of the public school caused aeroplanes flying over the district and making evolutions over the town. Rev. James A. Paterson, who presided, said he thought it was a public nuisance and considered that something should be done to put a stop to the practice. Mr Edie, Cornceres, Kilrenny, asked if they were supposed to know where the airmen came from. Could the committee object to any particular aerodrome? A Breach of the Peace. The chairman said it was well known where the airmen came from. They did not know when one of the ‘planes might fall and damage to any the houses in the town. Ex-Provost Ferguson —It is not the duty of the police to report it? It is breach of the peace. Mr Lee thought the airmen could easily select the open country for their practice. Ex-Provost Ferguson—Over their own aerodrome, in fact. There is plenty of room there. The Chairman said it was a nuisance, and only those who lived in the district knew that. Mr Charles Gardner —Send the complaint to the proper authority. Miss Mitchell, teacher Cellardyke School and a member of the committee said that on one occasion when Mr Burt, the Fife Education Authority physical teacher, endeavoured to give tuition to the children Cellardyke, he could not be heard because of the noise made by aeroplanes. On that particular day, he said, aeroplanes flew about from nine o’clock in the morning until four o’clock in the afternoon. was agreed, the motion the chairman, seconded Mr Ivor, that a complaint sent to the Air Ministry.

1927

Mr David Lowrie, engineer millwright, 5 Bonnygate, Cupar, has received an appointment with the New Consolidated Gold Company, and will probably leave for Nigeria in the course of next week. A native of Cellardyke. Mr Lowrie served his apprenticeship with Messrs Balfour & Robertson, Pittenweem. During the war was engineer the transport service, and in 1919 set up business on his own account in Cupar. His new position is that of machine shop overseer at one of the Company’s mines.

FIFE ROAD ACCIDENT A motor accident occurred on the highway between Pittenweem and Anstruther on Tuesday night, which resulted in serious injury to Miss Janet Innes. a worker in the oilskin factory at Cellardyke. While on her way to Pittenweem, Miss Innes was knocked down by a motor car driven by Dr Armour, Anstruther. When picked up, she was unconscious, and suffered from concussion and bruises.

1928

KILRENNY VALUATION APPEALS DISMISSED. Kilrenny Valuation Appeal Court dealt with two appeals. Mr W. Myles appealed against the valuation of £39 on his factory, including shop and house James Street, Cellardyke; the appeal was dismissed. The appeal of Mr A. \V. Myles against the valuation of on his house at Windmill Road was also dismissed.

ANSTRUTHER HARBOUR RESCUE LITTLE GIRL IN DANGER. Anstruther Harbour has been the scene of a rescue from drowning. A little girl, Betty Thomson, belonging to Cellardyke, fell into the harbour. Fortunately, her plight was observed by Alexander McLaughlin, a worker at present engaged at the slum clearance, who plunged in and brought the child to safety. Save for a ducking and scare, the girl was none the worse.

1929

Property for Sale. FIFESHIRE. CELLARDYKE, FIFE. VERY Desirable BUSINESS PREMISES at 34 JAMES STREET. CELLARDYKE, FOR SALE. For Sale, Private Bargain, the Premises which, for many years, good business has been carried on by Mr Robert Cormack, boot and shoe merchant. Assessed Rental, £21. Feu-Duty Nominal. Casualties Redeemed. The Property is good repair, and occupies one of the best business sites in the town. Further particulars may be obtained from Subscribers, with whom Offers may be lodged before 30th September 1929. MACKINTOSH & WATSON, Solicitors. National Bank Buildings, Anstruther, 12th September 1929.

CHARGE AGAINST CELLARDYKE PUBLICAN. John Duncan, publican, Boat Tavern. Cellardyke, was charged, before Provost Mitchell and Bailie Carstairs yesterday, with having supplied a glass of beer to two fishermen outwith the regulation hours. After evidence had been led, the Magistrate? returned a verdict of not proven.

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1921

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 given by the skippers in regard to their respective claims. large number of claimants belong the East of Fife district, where, with few exceptions, the skippers 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 if 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.

1922

CELLARDYKE MAN’S LIFE LOST AT SEA. A Promising Career Cut Short. The sad intelligence of the accidental death of Mr John Brown, marine engineer, was received in Cellardyke during the weekend, and cast gloom over the community. Deceased was third engineer on the steamer Onega, belonging to a Leith firm. This vessel left Hull recently for America, and from the meagre details supplied in letter from Newhaven, Connecticut, it appears that the young engineer met his death on the high seas as a result of a valve in the engine-room bursting A bright young man of only 27 years of age, Mr Brown was well-known as an enthusiastic member of Cellardyke Y.M.C.A. and also of the Temperance Association. He was an engineer of much promise. A native of Cellardyke, he was the son of the late Mr Leslie Brown (Smith) and of Mrs Brown, 1 Fowler Street. Much sympathy has been expressed to the widowed mother of deceased, his brother, and to his fiancée, to whom he was about to be married.

CELLARDYKE. Laid to rest Corporal W. Anderson, native of Cellardyke, who died from the effects of wounds received in the war, was laid to rest in Kilrenny, in presence a large gathering of mourners including Lieut-Colonel T. D. Murray, D.S.O.; Major C. H. Maxwell, 0.B.E.: and Captain Hugh C. Macintosh. M.C.  Cpl. Anderson was the son of the late Mr Alex. Anderson, and Mrs Andersen, now resident in Hadfoot Wynd, Anstruther.

1923

DEATH OF WELL-KNOWN CELLARDYKE MAN. JOHN BUTTERS’ PUBLIC SERVICES. The death of ex-Bailie John Butters, which occurred at his residence, Margaret’s, Cellardyke, removes one of the best known inhabitants from the East of Fife. Mr Butters had been in indifferent health since he suffered from a serious illness about two years ago, but he had recovered sufficiently to interest himself in his garden and to take a country stroll occasionally. Born in the village of Kilrenny 71 years ago, Mr Butters commenced business in Cellardyke as a general merchant in 1870, and achieved considerable success. In the affairs and welfare of the burgh Mr Butters took a prominent part. He was member of Kilrenny Town Council for over 20 years, and held a Bailieship. He also served on the Parish Council. Retiring two years ago on the advice of his doctor, he confined his activities to horticulture. As a florist he had no equals in the district, and the displays of plants and flowers in his gardens and hothouses were always much admired. He is survived two sons and one daughter, his wife having predeceased him about ten years ago.

Mr Alexander Milne, retired fishcurer, died at Queen Mary Street, Fraserburgh on Tuesday morning, after a short illness. The funeral of this old and greatly esteemed citizen, which took place on Friday to Kirkton Cemetery, was very largely attended. Mr Milne was native of the Parish of Gamrie, where he was born 87 years ago, and came to Fraserburgh in his early boyhood. He served his time as a cooper, with the late Mr James Cardno, fishcurer, and after working in Cellardyke and other places in the south for a few years, he returned to Fraserburgh, and was in the employment of Messrs A. Bruce and Co., up till 1864, when he commenced business on his own account.

1924

CELLARDYKE SKIPPER DEAD. With tragic suddenness the death took place yesterday of Skipper Henry Gardner, James Street, Cellardyke. Skipper Gardner, who was part owner of the steam drifter Acorn, of which his son Martin is skipper, had retired from active sea service, but he generally liked to take a part in any shore work in connection with his vessel. During the forenoon was engaged in tarring a mizzen sail, and between one and two o’clock he suddenly collapsed. Dr Wilson was immediately called, but he could only pronounce life extinct. The circumstances of the sudden demise of one who was so much esteemed in the three burghs cast quite a gloom over the communities. Skipper Gardner was the oldest surviving son of the late Mr Martin Gardner, and was a little over 62 years of age. His wife predeceased him a number of years ago. He was a keen Churchman, and took great interest in the work of Cellardyke Parish Church, of which he was a member. attended the last General Assembly. Mr Gardner is survived by a daughter and a son.

CELLARDYKE MAN MISSING. Fate of One of Crew of Drifter Mace. telegram from Yarmouth, where most of the East of Fife fishing fleet is prosecuting the herring fishing, conveyed the news that George Corstorphine, 57 George Street, Cellardyke, has been missing since Saturday evening, Corstorphine, who is 34 years of age. is married with a family of two, and is employed fisherman on the steam Mace, skippered by Mr Martin Gardiner, Cellardyke. The Mace left Anstruther about fortnight ago and had been working south. The missing man is a son of Mr and Mrs George Corstorphine, John Street, Cellardyke.

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1895

REMINISCENCES OF THE REBELLIONS. Thornliebank, September 7, 1895

Sir, —I send you the following jottings taken from very old family records in my possession; they may be of interest to some of your readers: —

“1714* was a time of commotion, and Charlie’s- friends came to Cellardyke, bringing along with them a number of raw recruits from the Highlands. The magistrates had hid themselves, and these officers could find no one to carry out their instructions as to the transportation of the troops to the other side of the Forth to engage with the enemy. One of these officers, among others who had met in a hostelry in the landlord-magistrate’s absence, lifted a bicker with wine and said to Janet, the absentee’s wife, ‘Come, Janet, you must drink oor King’s health!’,  ‘A’ weel,’ said Janet, taking the bicker, ‘Here’s to a’ the kings that fear the Lord.’ The squires highly approved of Janet’s conduct, for they could not lay hold on her words, ”Well, said one of them, ‘I could not get a magistrate to-day, therefore I have a magistrate myself, and have given orders that the boats should carry over the troops.’ ‘There is nae scaid,’ said Janet, ‘wha do a gude turn sae as it be dune.’ When night came on, she was much concerned for her husband, and went to see if he was safe. On being satisfied as to this, she returned home, and met by the way two raw Highland callants, who accosted her thus: — ‘Gude woman, could you tell us whaur we’ll get our King? ‘ ‘Puir things, ‘ said Janet, ‘and did they really-tell you you would get your King! Come awa wi’ me and I will give you a bed.’ So home she went with the two youths. They were called by thy others at four in the morning; few or none of them ever returned.” .

“When John Duncan was tenant of Pickie mill in 1715, one of his horses called ‘Gilderoy’ was taken away out of the stable , and to be sure they never expected to see him again; but about seven years afterwards he came pushing up his head to the mill door. One of the men came hastily up the brae crying out that ‘Gilderoy’ had come back. Everyone hastened to the spot, and ‘Gilderoy’ was immediately surrounded by master and mistress, children and servants, who welcomed him back, while the sagacious animal seemed-quite pleased with their attention, and afterwards gladly submitted to carry the load with the rest of his companions, some of whom were old acquaintances. “

 Another of my progenitors writes : — ” My mother was about five years old when the rebellion broke out in 1745 . She and the rest of the children were left at home with a servant on a Sabbath day , when the Highlanders marched through Cellardyke, bagpipes playing and drums beating. Their door was fast, for it was the custom even in my young days that, as soon as the family were gone to church, at Kilrenny, the outer door was made fast. The ship’s dog being within showed his dislike at this irregularity of pipes and drums by howling and barking. One of the soldiers, provoked by his noise, stepped forward and struck the door with the butt end of his musket, which so frightened the children that they fell flat on the floor . My aunt Peggy, being older than my mother, recollected of standing on Craignoon and hearing the guns firing when- the battle of Prestonpans was fought . ” —I am , &c . ROBERT LOUTHEAN , * Has our correspondent miscopied the date , or is it an anachronism?

The news paper questions the dates, however first report could be the 1715 rebellion, as highlanders did come here, their leaders staying in the Commercial Hotel ( Smuggler’s Inn). Brigadier Macintosh conscripted Cellardyke fishermen to take the Highland soldiers across the Forth, and much to the fear of their relations they were not traced for at least 3 weeks.

Inquiry into Fisherman’s Death. —An investigation under the Fatal Inquiry Scotland Act was held before Acting Sheriff Brown and jury at Aberdeen yesterday into the circumstances attending the death of George Watson, 8 Rodger Street, Cellardyke, fisherman on board the herring fishing boat Mizpah, of Kirkcaldy, who was drowned about 10 miles off Aberdeen on the 27th August. The jury having heard the evidence of John Carstairs, master of the Mizpah, and three of the crew, found that Watson met his death by being dragged overboard by the foresheet running out and tightening while was trying to unhook the block through which the rope ran, with the view of shifting the sail to the other side of the mast, the boat having a list to port at the time of the accident

Tho Cellardyke boats returned from the northern fishing stations last Friday and Saturday. Between 50 and 60 arrived on Friday forenoon, and by Saturday afternoon nearly the whole of the fleet were moored in Anstruther harbour. The last to come was on Sunday night The half-dealsmen were eager to get home to the harvest in their various localities, and left by train on Friday and Saturday. The best boats are said to be the Triad, Livonia, Reliance, the first two having close on £540 the latter with nearly £500. Many have about £400, and others above £300 to their credit, while the lowest is reputed to be £80. The average over the fleet will be fully £200 the largest amount for many years back. The fishing has been very general, and a more hopeful feeling prevails in the community.

Seven steam liners from Anstruther were engaged at the white fishing. All the takes were landed at Shields with the exception of that by the William Tennant which went to Newhaven. Prices were good, and the total sum earned £336. The details were :—William Tenant £71 ; Copley £58 ; Anster Fair £54 : Edith £44 10s; Maggie Lauder £39 ; Rob the Ranter and Glenogil £33.

On Monday this week the first of the boats left for Scarborough and yesterday another eight sailed for the same fishing. Some the crews intend to go on to Yarmouth and Lowestoft after fishing at Scarborough for some weeks. About a half-a-dozen yawls are to proceed to Islay in the beginning of next week. Mr Pratt has sailed for Islay with his floating store of goods and gear for the fishermen there. On Wednesday four of the Anstruther fleet of liners arrived at Shields with shots of white fish, which realised from £22 to £27.

1896

ASSAULT BY A TRAMP.—Before Provost Martin and Bailie Thomson on Monday, a tramp named Mary Hetherington, was accused of assaulting a pedlar from St Monans in John Street on Saturday night, and of committing a breach of the peace She was convicted on evidence, and tined or 5 days in prison. She went to Prison.

WOMAN RUN OVER – Last Friday night, Elizabeth Doyle or McMillan, wife of a tinker living on Kilrenny Common, met with a serious accident. Alexander Donaldson, carter, Toldrie, was proceeding home driving a horse and cart. At the east side of Cellardyke Manse McMillan came up and fell in front of the cart, the near wheel passing over her body. She was conveyed to the room of the Parish Council in Cellardyke, and medically examined, when it was found that with the exception of one of her ribs no bones had been broken. No blame can be attached to the driver, the accident being entirely the fault of the woman.

The fishing was almost solely confined to the steam liners last week. The fishermen in the boats were engaged storing their gear, and making preparations for the South and Islay fishing.. A few of the larger-mixed yawls sailed for the latter fishing this week, including Mr D. Pratt, Cellardyke, who again this year set out with a ship-store filled with gear for sale. The south going boats will likely leave early next week.

The doings of the liners were exceedingly good last week. The gross earnings were £528 by eleven vessels, giving an average of £48. Several of them went to Grimsby, others to Shields, Hartlepool, Aberdeen, and Newhaven. The best fished was the Isle of May with £98, but one two were unfortunate in not getting the supply of bait they required. The other liners had shots which realised the following sums : -Glenogil £65, Anster Fair £61, Colley £55, Maggie Lauder, £53 East Neuk £51, County of Fife £42, St Adrian £40, Rob the Ranter £20, William Tennant £19, and Kellie Castle £l8. Another two new liners have reached Anstruther, and are manned by Cellardyke crews. The Arcadia is to be managed by skipper James Muir, and the Agnes of Aberdeen by skipper James Jack. A third liner is expected shortly, making 20 steam fishing vessels manned by Cellardyke fishermen. The liners left early for sea this week except the County of Fife, which is being cleaned and painted. The first intelligence was regarding the Edith, which went into Aberdeen on Wednesday morning with a shot which fetched £20.

1897

FORMATION OF A FOOTBALL CLUB.—The employees in the K. Y. boot and shoe factory have been successful in securing the use of a field near the roll road for the practice of football. Mr Downey has accepted the hon. Presidency, Mr D. Fraser president. G. Gibson, the office of secretary, and Mr Mudie that of treasurer. There are some good players amongst the members, and the team is expected to give a good account of itself.

Crusoe To the Mark – Mr Alex. Kidd, who has charge of the scribbling department on behalf of the Crusoe, writes us that his men are to take the field this week. The opening match is to be with Kilrenny F.C., or, as the latter call themselves, the “K.Y. team.” They should provide a good game, as most of the men come from Dundee, and are now engaged at Cellardyke boot Factory. The Crusoe have on a number of other good matches, and first class juveniles or modest juniors who may desire a place on the card should lose no time in writing for dates.

ASSAULTING THE POLICE. FINED AND BOUND OVER TO KEEP THE PEACE. At Anstruther Burgh Court on Monday, before Provost Anderson and Bailie Darsie, William Sutherland, fisherman, Cellardyke, was charged with having, first on Thursday, 2d instant at the Harbour Head, assaulted Sergeant Anderson whilst in the execution of his duty by striking him a severe blow on the forehead to the effusion of blood and injury of his person. Second, at the same time and place he cursed and swore, and conducted himself in a drunken and disorderly manner. Accused said he was guilty of being drunk and of the breach of the peace, but not guilty of striking Sergeant Anderson………………The Provost—You have been found clearly guilty of a very serious offence, striking a policeman, aggravated by previous convictions, and that must be dealt with in a very serious way indeed. If the men wearing Her Majesty’s uniform are to be struck in that way where is the safety for the peace and protection of the community? We have taken the most lenient view we can of your offence, and you are fined 20s or 14 days imprisonment, and you are also bound to keep the peace for the next six month’s under a penalty of £5 or suffer other 20 days imprisonment.

1898

On Saturday afternoon, Mr Jarvis launched a boat from the boat-building shed at the Harbour Head to the order of the Skippers Gardiner. A very large number of people assembled to witness the launch, which was most successful. The christening ceremony was performed by Miss Maggie Gardiner, daughter of Skipper Philip Gardiner, who named the boat the Maggies. The boat is a very fine model, is 66ft in length, 201/2  feet in breadth, and 10 ½  feet in depth. She to have all the latest improvements for the different kinds of fishing, and is expected to sail for the south coast next week

The last of the boats returned home Saturday. The highest Cellardyke boat has about £500, and the average earning is now said to be £120.

CLOSE OF THE FISHING AT ABERDEEN.—The season is now practically over. Between 300 and 400 boats were fishing from this port, but now only 60 remain. The season for this sudden exodus is largely due to the hired hands, who considered that the season’s engagements terminated by the first week of September. The fleet was composed as follows :—Scottish Boats—KY 150 ; INS 75 ; LH 66 ; A 60 ; ME 13 ; BK 11 ;BF 5 ; DE 9. English Boats — LT 3;LT2; YE 2. Irish.-18 boats from Dublin.

Curers are eager for more fish, and the tinners are open to buy for about two months yet. The following is a comparison of the results of the last five years’ fishing :

Year.                      Boats.                    Average.              Total.

1894,                     365                        259                        88,088

1895,                     340                        311                        105,908

1896,                     400                        310                        125,256

1897,                     400                        117                        46,873

1898,                     370                         243                        89,974

MAKING OFF WITH A BARROW. James McMillan, a pedlar, of no fixed place of abode, admitted having, on 15th August, received from David Edwards, hotel-keeper, Royal Hotel. Ladybank, the loan of a two-wheeled luggage barrow, in order that he might use it temporarily for the purpose of conveying some goods from the Railway Station to Pitlessie Common. Accused, had failed to return the barrow, and sold it on, 1st September at Cellardyke to David Keith, cadger, for 15s.

SUNKEN WRECKAGE. The steamer Ugie, which arrived Leith on Saturday from Peterhead with herrings, reports having struck what appears to a sunken wreck the 2nd inst., half mile S.S.W. of Cellardyke. The wreck was dangerous to navigation, but the steamer did not sustain any apparent damage.

1899

ACCIDENT TO AN OLD FISHERMAN —FATAL TERMINATION.—About three o’clock on Saturday afternoon, while James Thomson, retired fisherman, Cellardyke, was turning the corner at the harbour head, opposite Mr Cunningham’s shop, a baker’s van passed, and before he could get out of the way, the point of the tram knocked him over. The wheel passed over his right leg, breaking it between the knee and the ankle. Thomson was carried into Mr Cunningham’s shop, and attended by Dr Wilson. He was afterwards taken home to Cellardyke, where it was found he was suffering from shock in addition to other injuries. He lingered on until Monday afternoon when he succumbed. Deceased, who was 76 years of age, had been suffering from bronchitis at time of the accident.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR. THE CELLARDYKE FISH MANURE FACTORY. Sir,—The intention of Dr Nasmyth’s report on my fish manure works here, in one part at least, appears to be to lead the Town Council to think that I was unwilling to carry out his instructions in order to remove what is said to be a nuisance caused by the effluvia from the boiler at the works. This Is unfair, and not in accordance with the fact. The complaint was of the smell from the boiler rising through the chimney stalk, and spreading over a considerable area. Dr Nasmyth made only one recommendation to do away with the smell, and that recommendation I carried out in its entirety, not simply, as the report says, making only “an attempt” to carry it out.

That Dr Nasmyth’s recommendation, carried out as I have said, exactly as be wished, has not been a success is not surely my fault. His other recommendations such as concreting the place, etc., had nothing whatever to do with subject of the complaint, and although they had been carried out fully would not affected the smell of the chimney a single iota. How be now says these recommendations are “probably the most important” passes my comprehension.

That I am anxious to do everything to lessen the alleged nuisance is proved by the fact that I have done what Dr Nasmyth recommended at considerable cost.—l am etc., Thomas Cormack

Do you enjoy and follow the Cellardyke Echo and the work of the Cellardyke Trust?

There are costs behind everything we do, such as, Web hosting fees for this website which provides the weekly Cellardyke Echo and all the other info and research. Public Liability Insurance for our events such as the Sea Queen and the Phone Boxes. These are general operating costs which we cannot avoid.

If you are able to support the work of the Cellardyke Trust – Donations of any size would be gratefully received.

Our Account is called “The Cellardyke Trust (SCIO)”, Sort Code 83-15-08 – Acc No 00128815

Many Thanks

1890

ACCIDENT TO A CELLARDYKE FISHERMAN AT ABERDEEN, _ Late last night Charles Hay (32), a Fisherman on board the fishing boat Florence of Cellardyke (Robert Brown skipper), got his right arm fractured by falling from the Florence to the deck of another fishing boat, he was removed to the Infirmary.

The schools were all re-opened on Monday. The attendance was about average, with the exception of Cellardyke and Pittenweem, where there are so few of the fishermen’s children home from the north. Next week, however, the numbers will be considerably augmented in these places. Work has also been begun in the Waid Academy with a considerable number of pupils.

To Bicycle clubs – Cycling capes, cycling capes, best and cheapest in the market; double texture only 5s per parcel post, order at once. Secretaries note the address – Black and Co the Cellardyke Factory, Cellardyke Fife.

1891

FOR SALE, BOAT “Harvest Queen”. – KY 1955, 44 feet, carvel built, all the material in good order. Apply to JAMES DICK, 31 Rodger St., Cellardyke

ANSTRUTHER. — The stormy, weather last week retarded fishing operations until Thursday night when the boats went to sea for the first time. The nets were shot in Dunbar Bay, and on Friday and Saturday 258 crans of herrings were landed, which realised from 20s. to 30s. per cran. The catch for the season is now 2650 crans, compared with 623 crans last year. Fully 40 of the Cellardyke boats have arrived home from the northern stations. A few have done very well, having netted between £400 and £500 for the season, while others have made barely sufficient to pay expenses. The average, however, this year is higher than it has been for some seasons past.

1892

CELLARDYKE. ANOTHER DROWNING CASE AT PETERHEAD– On Sunday morning the body of John Muir (19), son of David Muir, Cellardyke, skipper of the Mayflower, KY 48, was found floating in the south harbour. He had been crossing over to his father’s boat had had missed his footing, and falling into the water, was drowned.

The week opened with a gloom over each of the homes in Cellardyke and Pittenweem. On Sunday the Rev. Mr Anderson, after coming from Kilconquhar, received a telegram informing him of the death of John Muir, and asking him to break the tidings to his relatives. After the service, in which he made an indirect reference to the sad duty he had to perform, he performed his message. Little is known about the accident, but it is thought that Muir slipped as he crossed to his father’s boat, the Reindeer, in which he was fishing. He was 20 years old, and much sympathy is felt for his parent and grandparents. The body was conveyed home and interred in Kilrenny Churchyard. A similar message was sent to Pittenweem on the same day. This was to the relatives of David Hughes, a youth of ten summers, who accompanied his father, Alexander Hughes (Gay), who was fishing from Peterhead. He had been sent some message, and owing to his prolonged absence his mother went to look for him. Observing a book and bread floating in the Basin she thought he had let them fall in and was frightened to return, but graver fears took possession of her as the night wore on, and a party was engaged to drag the harbour, and shortly after his body was recovered. His body was also brought home for interment.

The homecoming of the fleet thus occurs under a shadow which the drave of many will only deepen. The first- comer proved to be the Magdalene Hughes, Skipper Fergus Hughes, the king fisher for the season. He is credited with £700, against which 30 nets lost on the Tuesday is the chief deduction. The crew is composed of half-dealsmen, who thus receive a splendid wage, as large as many an entire crew’s earnings, while the skipper, as owner, is placed far ahead on the list of rich draves. On the same Friday the Reliance (Skipper Adam Reid) returned to Anstruther, and his £450 will probably make him the king fisher of this port. The Golden Rule and Lavinia- came in on Thursday, and each succeeding tide was marked by the arrival of some boat or other, chiefly those from Aberdeen, from whom a recital of heavy hauls would weary one, and the tales of remuneration prove all too brief. With them the season has been a weary drag, intensified by the fever of a good shot, and the wet blanket thrown over the crew on their return to port by the lack of buyers. The average for the entire fleet at this port is about 280 crans, but the money realised is scarcely a fourth of that. At Peterhead and Fraserburgh the average is over 300 crans, and the returns about £150. Both of these places were remarkably well fished, and the prices were good, a great contrast to the quotations from Aberdeen, where the high prices last year induced many of our skippers to go, instead of as in former years to Peterhead. The fishing at Anstruther is comprised in a catch of 30 crans from the Margaret Morris on Tuesday night, for which 10s was obtained. The Constance is loading herring from the yard of Mr Cormack for the Continent. This is the first shipment which has taken place here. The salmon fishing closed for the season on Friday night. The fish have been hardly so numerous as in previous years.

GOOD NEWS FOR THE EAST COAST FISHERMEN. BOARD OF TRADE EXAMINATIONS. Mr George Watson, Cellardyke, has passed his examination as second mate this week before the Local Marine Board Dundee. Mr Watson had not nearly completed the four years’ sea which the of Trade require from candidate for examination for certificate competency as second mate, but his service in deep-sea fishing vessels was allowed to count instead of the time he was short of the four years. This passing of Mr Watson will show to fishermen on the East Coast that their service is of use, that is allowed count to qualify them to pass a Board of Trade examination for a certificate, and that they have not to serve much time to qualify for passing as a boy leaving home for the first time. It also serves to prove the statement of Mr Swanston, C.B., assistant secretary, Marine Department, Board of Trade, that “service in bona-fide deep-sea fishing vessel”, irrespective of the mode fishing, is accepted qualifying towards examination for a certificate of competency.” Mr Watson prepared with Mr Leonard Alien, 33 Dock Street, Dundee.

OPENING INTIMATION. GEORGE DICK, having taken over the NET FACTORY, so long carried on by the firm of Sharp and Murray, begs to inform MERCHANTS and FISHERMEN that he intends to Manufacture all kinds of Fishing Nets from the Best Quality of Cotton. Having been Manager of this Factory for over 28 years, he trusts to merit a Share of the Patronage so long bestowed upon his Predecessors. Cellardyke, 30th August 1892

Accident near Arbroath. —Yesterday afternoon an accident of a most melancholy nature happened to a little lad near Carnoustie. The lad’s name is Andrew Elder, five years of age, and he belongs Cellardyke. He was travelling along with his mother by the express from Aberdeen, which passes through Arbroath at 4.55, when, after passing Carnoustie, the door of the carriage suddenly opened and the poor little chap was thrown out of the train, which was going full speed. The carriage door it seems is fitted with handle inside, and it appears that the little fellow had been amusing himself somehow with this and had inadvertently opened the door, and caused the accident which likely to bring about his death. He was found lying upon the line upon his face, and insensible, and was conveyed to Dundee Infirmary, where it was found that his skull was severely fractured. Last night scarcely any hope was entertained for the little fellow’s recovery. His mother, who was on her way from Aberdeen to Cellardyke, was nearly hysterical over the lamentable and sudden accident to her boy.

1893

On Monday afternoon two Cellardyke boys fell into the harbour. Several were playing on board the dredger moored at the West pier, when one of them, in stepping from the dredger on to a boat lying alongside, missed his footing and fell into the water. Mr David Pratt, who was on board his boat near at hand, got the little boy taken out with a boathook. He was none the worse of his fright. About four o’clock another young boy fell in from one of the iron ladders, but he was got out at once, and was able to walk home.

The Cellardyke boats which have been fishing at the northern ports returned home on Friday and Saturday. The season has been a good one, the average sum over the 160 boats being estimated at £130. The kingfisher, Skipper Adam Reid of the Reliance, has £530, and the lowest boat £30 for the eight weeks. The great majority, however, have close on £180 to £200, although there are a few with £300 to their credit. Generally, the boats which were at Peterhead were the best fished. Crews are now being made up for the south fishing at Yarmouth and Lowestoft, while a few are to proceed to the Islay fishing.

THE OUTBREAK OF TYPHOID FEVER. There have been a few more new cases of typhoid fever this past week both in Anstruther and Cellardyke. A proposal has been made that the water and milk used in the burghs should be analysed by a specialist.

1894

The Cellardyke boats that have been fishing at the north have nearly all arrived home. The season has been a fairly good one, the average being higher than some years back, it being estimated at £150. The highest boat is the Reliance, with £420. A few have over £300, and quite a number above £200 to their credit. There are some below £100.

THE DROWNING OF A CELLARDYKE FISHERMAN OFF LEVEN —Between eight and two o’clock on Tuesday morning an accident which led to the drowning of a young Cellardyke fishermen off Leven. The boat Onyx, Skipper Robert Meldrum, left Anstruther at three o’ clock in the morning in order to be beached at Leven for the winter. Everything went well until the boat was going into Leven, when Thomas Pringle, fisherman, residing in Dove Street, Cellardyke, slipped at the bow of the boat and fell overboard. Several articles were at once thrown to him, and efforts were immediately made to turn the boat, but Pringle sank before any other assistance could be rendered him. On going inside the harbour the sad occurrence was reported, and a volunteer party went out with grapnels and searched for the body. In this they were unsuccessful. Meanwhile the skipper telegraphed the Rev Mr Anderson. Kilrenny, to break the mournful intelligence to Pringle’s relatives. This was done in the course of the forenoon. The news soon spread, and created general expressions of sympathy and regret. What makes the occurrence all the more sad is that Pringle, who was about 30 years of age, was to have been married on Tuesday next. Pringle was a native of Buckhaven, his parents having lived at Muiredge, but he was brought up by his aunt in Cellardyke

The following paragraph is taken from a Geelong newspaper, of the end of June last. The Captain mentioned is Mr Cunningham, late of Cellardyke: ‘ The deep sea fishing cutter “Scotsman” arrived early yesterday at North Geelong front a hard and deep sea fishing trip having experienced some very severe weather during the cruise The ‘ Scotsman’ however proved a splendid sea boat in the trying weather in the Straits. Captain Cunningham reports strong westerly and north-westerly ……..in the south west entrance of the Bass Straits. In his opinion the deep sea fish strike to deep water according to storms and season.. For the information of those interested the Captain states that deep sea fishing crafts should be about 30 tons reg. and able to keep the sea in all weathers, the special qualifications required being speed, adaptability and worthiness, for which the Captain holds the prize medal of Norwich exhibition 1881. The fishermen engaged in the trade should moreover be trained to this hazardous work when very young. Victoria waters furnish large scope for deep sea fishing, but he believes that if the Government would be at the expense of building suitable deep sea boats and entrust these to experienced captains, coat of construction to be repaid without interest, and encourage the colonial youth to become apprentices, the deep sea fishing industry would be very soon on a sound footing.

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We are delighted to publish our 500th Cellardyke Echo on the week of our 10 year anniversary. The first posting was 3rd Sept 2015 – You can read them all here on this website.

1905

MEMORIAL TO A FORMER M.P.—A marble tablet has been erected in the Chalmers Memorial Church, Anstruther, to the memory of the late Mr. Stephen Williamson, a former Member of Parliament for the Kilmarnock Burghs. Anstruther was the birthplace of the famous Dr. Chalmers, and besides possessing a lighthouse in memory of him, the United Free congregation were enabled, through the munificence of Mr. Williamson, to erect the handsomest building in the town in the shape of the granite church overlooking the harbour. Mr. Williamson was born in the neighbouring burgh of Cellardyke, and always showed a keen interest in the affairs of his native town. The office-bearers of the church decided some time ago to erect a tablet to his memory, and the inscription on that now unveiled reads:— “Erected by the congregation of Chalmers Memorial Church, Anstruther, in grateful and affectionate remembrance of Stephen Williamson of Copley, Cheshire, and of Glenogil, Forfarshire, by whose munificent liberality the congregation were enabled to erect this church. Died at Copley, 17th June, 1903.

ADDITION TO MANUFACTURING PREMISES. A Dean of Guild Court was held in the Council Chamber on Tuesday afternoon, when Provost Black presided, and there were present Baillies Williamson and Butters, and Treasurer Black. Plans were submitted by Messrs Martin & Co., of an addition to be made to a part of their works in East Forth Street to be used as a store. The neighbouring proprietors had been served with a notice, and had raised no objections. The plan was unanimously passed after an explanation had been made that the stair between the storeys was to have the usual balustrade and rail protection.

FISHERMAN COMMITS SUICIDE. Shortly before ten o’clock on Wednesday forenoon, it was discovered that George Fleming, (68), fisherman, residing at 62 James Street, Cellardyke, had committed suicide by hanging himself in a cellar adjoining his house. A little girl, happening to enter the cellar, found him suspended by a rope, the noose being passed under his chin and over the back of his head, his knees nearly resting on the ground. The alarm was immediately raised, and the body was cut down and carried upstairs to his house. Dr Wilson having been called, pronounced life to be extinct. Fleming was last seen alive shortly after eight o’clock in the morning. Deceased, who leaves a widow and grown-up family, has for some time past been very dull and depressed in spirits, his unwonted moroseness being especially noticeable on Tuesday. Much sympathy is felt for his widow and family.

1906

The half-deals men who are on board the St Monans and Cellardyke boats are also doing exceptionally well in the closing days of the drave, and will have a handsome share to lift at the final part

On Thursday while the LK. boat Gracey Brown, 1075, was setting her sail off the North Ness, she was run into by the Cellardyke boat Dutiful, and her gunwale, planking, and iron belt were damaged.

FINEST Home-grown GRAPES to be had at JOHN BUTTERS, Merchant, Cellardyke.

1907

PROPERTY FOR SALE. The FISHCURING PREMISES fronting Forth Street and James Street, Cellardyke, occupied for many years, by Mr ROBERT DONALDSON. The Premises are large and commodious, and very suitable for carrying on a Fishcuring or other similar Business. Feu duty 1s 9d

WAGGONETTE OVERTURNS. SERIOUS DRIVING ACCIDENT NEAR KINGSBARNS. SEVEN PERSONS INJURED.

A driving accident which more or less seriously injured seven persons occurred between Crail and Kingsbarns on Monday afternoon. Between ten and eleven o’clock the party, which numbered twelve and consisted of Mrs Alexander Black, (wife of the Provost of Cellardyke), Mr and Mrs David Doig, Mrs A. Pratt and her four children (whose ages range from eight to eighteen years), Mrs Michael Doig and her two young children, and the driver, Alexander Smith, left Cellardyke with the intention of driving to St Andrews.

As the day was a fine one, the little party greatly enjoyed their outing, and all went well until Cambo was reached. At that point the vehicle was on the wrong side of the road, and before those in the machine quite knew what was happening, the horse had gone at a slow trot on to the embankment.

Of course the inevitable happened. The. waggonette turned over and the occupants were pitched out on to the road, while the position of the driver was rendered more precarious by reason of the fact that the horses fell on the top of him. Fortunately for him, Mrs Pratt, with admirable presence of mind, went to his rescue, and although she was almost blinded by the blood which was streaming from her head, she managed to extricate him from his dangerous situation. While this was going on, Mrs Black endeavoured to restore consciousness to Mr and Mrs Doig. Finding her efforts of no avail she set off for Crail with the intention of summoning the aid of a doctor. She had not gone far, however, when she met a young gentleman on a bicycle, and on informing him of what had occurred he said he would ride back to Crail and inform Dr Orr of the accident.

At this stage a motorist came on the scene, and was of the utmost service. He stopped his car, which bore the number G 317, and after he had assisted in carrying Mr and Mrs Doig into the cottage of a gamekeeper at Cambo he, too, let off for Crail. On the outskirts of the burgh he met Dr Orr, and drove that gentleman back to where the injured were lying. He also offered to drive the uninjured members of the party into Crail, an offer which was courteously refused, although Mrs Black, on behalf of the party, acknowledged her indebtedness to him for his kindness and help. Under the ministrations of Dr Orr, Mr and Mrs Doig regained consciousness, and were afterwards taken to their home at Cellardyke in cabs.

The following is a list of the injured:— Mrs David Doig —Right wrist broken, left wrist severely sprained, and badly cut about the face. Mr David Doig—Badly cut about the head and face and severely shaken. Master John Pratt—Severe bruises on the face and also suffering from a kick from the horse. Mrs Michael Doig, Anstruther—Bad cut on the back of the head, which required one stitch, and severe shock. Mrs Pratt—Nose laid open, wound requiring three stitches, and suffering generally from shock and bruises. Mrs Alexander Black—Bruised on the back and severe shock. Alexander Smith—General bruises and small cuts. The remaining members of the party escaped with a severe shaking.

One curious feature of the affair is that when the accident occurred the youngest member of the party was lying asleep. Although pitched out with its mother, the infant did not waken and slept peacefully through all the subsequent turmoil and excitement. With the exception of Mr and Mrs Doig, who are progressing favourably, all the injured had by yesterday completely recovered from their exciting and unfortunate experience. It should be mentioned that the party request us to convey their heartiest thanks to the gamekeeper and his wife for all their kindness. The couple not only threw their house open, hut provided refreshments for the party and other comforts for the more seriously injured.

A boy named Mcruvie had a narrow escape from drowning while fishing on the rocks at Cellardyke on Monday. A woman rescued him by means of a clothes stretcher.

1909

PATENT CANVAS BUOYS THE FIRST. THE BEST.

Made of Corton Canvas of the best quality, manufactured under the personal supervision of the Patentee and Inventor, who after years of experience, can offer with confidence the only reliable PATENT CANVAS NET BUOY. MANUFACTURED ONLY AT THE CELLARDYKE OILSKIN FACTORY, 31 to 39 JAMES STREET. CELLARDYKE, FIFE. Telegrams— Cellardyke Factory. Telephone No 23 We hold Large Stocks round or square.

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1900

THE NEW DRAINAGE OPERATIONS

A start was made to the new drainage works in Cellardyke last week. A commencement was begun in West Forth Street, and after this street is finished James Street will be tackled, and right on to Shore Street.

HEAVY ESCAPE OF GAS. —On Sunday morning, there was a very big escape of gas in West Forth Street. It appears the new drainage operations caused a heavy embankment of earth to fall un the main pipe, breaking it through and causing the gas to escape. The occupants of the houses on the north side of the street felt the smell, and gave the alarm to the Gas Works, but before the leak could be stopped, about 20,000 feet of gas had escaped. The gas was shut off at the main until the pipe was repaired.

CHARGE OF TURNIP STEALING.-At a Burgh Court yesterday, before Provost Thomson and Bailie Butters, a young boy named John Gardiner, residing with his mother at 41 John Street, was charged with stealing a turnip from a field on the farm of Kilrenny Mill. He pled guilty. The fiscal said this practice of taking turnips was becoming too common in the neighbourhood. He did not say this boy was worse than his neighbours, or that the Cellardyke boys were worse than other towns, but when he was caught in the act it was thought necessary to bring him here and admonish him, and let it be known from the bench that it was really theft to take turnips. Provost Thomson said he daresay that when the boy took the turnip he thought he was doing no wrong, but he was guilty of stealing. He hoped he would be careful in the future and not only not take turnips but anything else that did not belong to him. They would let him off but if he came back again it would be very serious both for him or other boys. Accused was dismissed with an admonition.

There was launched from the building yard of Mr James Miller on Saturday a first-class fishing boat, built to the order of Mr Henry Bett, Cellardyke. The launch took place at high water, and was successfully accomplished. As the craft left the ways she was named the Breadwinner by Miss Henrietta Ogilvie, a daughter of Mc James Ogilvie. The boat is 67 feet extreme length.

WANTED, APPRENTICE to the Grocery Business. Apply A Marr.  Cellardyke.

FATAL ACCIDENTS – Sheriff Armour heard evidence in Cupar Sheriff Court yesterday in three fatal accidents inquiries. Drowning Case at Anstruther. The first was that of James Smith, fisherman, Cellardyke, who was drowned while engaged as one of the crew of the steam liner White Cross. David Parker, skipper, said that about two o’clock on the afternoon of the 4th August the White Cross arrived about half-a-mile off Anstruther Harbour. The deceased went ashore in a small boat about 14 or 15 feet length. He returned in the boat, accompanied by other two men and four boys. When they came near to the liner Smith asked them to give him a haul. They took the small boat in tow, and witness gave orders to the engineman  to go easy ahead. They had only started about a minute or two when the boat was alongside the liner. By some reason or other the boat sheered towards the larger vessel, and came against her side. The boat capsized, and immediately filled with water, and the occupants were thrown into the sea. Four of them clung to the boat, while the other three were cast adrift. Smith immediately sank, and was never seen again. He had heavy boots on at the time. His body had never been recovered. He could not suggest how the accident occurred. John Anderson, one the crew, corroborated. The jury returned verdict in accordance with the evidence.

1901

While the Cellardyke flshing boat Vanguard, Skipper Martin Gardiner, was coming home from sea, and when about 50 miles east-south-east of May Island on Thursday. morning last week, the crew found drifting about a small boat 16 feet 6 inches long by 5 feet 10 inches broad, with the letters ” S.C.H. 84,” on the stern. The boat is supposed to have belonged to some Duch fishing vessel, and was handed over to the Coastguards at Anstruther, and particulars forwarded to the Receiver of Wrecks.

1902

Saturday was coronation day –

In Cellardyke there was a profusion of flags and bunting of every description. James and John Streets were the most prettily decorated. All along the streets the numerous flags were stretched from side to side and formed a very pretty picture, while the principal shops and buildings were draped with festoons of red, white, and blue, and portraits of their Majesties were seen all over with suitable inscriptions. Provost Black’s and Bailie Buttars’s premises were exceptionally attractive, the former having a string of flags across the street, and the Royal Standard and Union Jack floating overhead ; while the front of the Bailie’s shop was a mass of colourings with portraits of the King and Queen, and the crown and Royal standards

Skipper Alexander Walker, Ellice Street, Cellardyke, the owner of the boat Cousins, K.Y, 1651, arrived in Anstruther on Tuesday, and reported between 11 and 1 o’clock that morning, about 18 to 20 miles off the Bervie and Stonehaven coasts, a Granton trawler bore down upon them, and in spite of the warnings given crossed the nets, causing the loss of 13 nets besides pallets, buoys, &c. The value of the nets and gear is estimated at fully £100. The lights of the Cousins were burning brightly, and the trawler can have no excuse for causing the destruction. The matter has been reported to the Fishery Board in Edinburgh.

1903

DEATH OF A CELLARDYKE MERCHANT. Thomas Scott, merchant, Cellardyke, died yesterday at half-past six o’clock. Deceased, who was born in the parish of Crail, has been in this district for over thirty years. At the early age of twelve apprenticed himself to the firm of Sharp & Murray, in whose service he was engaged for twenty three years. On the death of Mr Sharp, twelve years ago, Mr Scott took over the business, which has conducted satisfactorily ever since. Deceased was highly respected in the district for his honesty and straightforward conduct in business. leaves a widow and large family, for whom much sympathy felt this district. Two of the sons are associated in the business. Deceased was years of age.

At the monthly meeting Town Council correspondence was read from the Board of Trade as to the lights Cellardyke Harbour, insisting light being shown while the new works were progress, as it was dangerous to navigation not to have light. The Clerk was instructed to reply that as the works were Hearing completion the Council did not consider it necessary to have a light, as there was no traffic in the harbour, and that when the harbour was finished the usual lights would be exhibited. It was resolved that the entrance to the harbour should 26 feet wide in order to permit of booms

1904

As Obstreperous Labourer.—Before Provost Black and Bailie Butters yesterday, Thomas Ward, a labourer employed at Anstruther harbour works, pled guilty to creating a disturbance in the public house in John Street the previous night. The Fiscal said accused went to the public house the previous night under the influence of drink. He attempted to force an entrance into the premises, but Mr Downey kept him out, and he gave a great deal of annoyance, necessitating the police being called in. It was exceedingly hard when a man wanted to conduct his business on proper lines that he should be subjected to treatment of this nature. Mr Downey was to be commended for keeping accused out, and handing him over to the police. Accused said he was very sorry. He was very damp, and took some whisky to make him warm. He took too much. The magistrates imposed a fine of 7s 6d or 7 days, Provost Black stating that Mr Downey conducted his house well, and the magistrates could not allow conduct like this to go on.

ST MONANCE. while a gang of workmen were employed picking the rock at the bottom of the slip one of the carters, Thomas Carstairs, a native of Cellardyke, came too near one of the workmen while a pick was being raised. It struck him the head, rendering him unconscious. Medical aid being summoned, he recovered so far as to able to be conveyed home in the evening. This is the first  accident which has occurred at this harbour, which is nearly finished.

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1875

AN INTERESTING ARRIVAL

On Thursday morning the “ancient mariners” banging on their oars and discussing the land breeze in shadow of the old look out had their attention pleasantly drawn to a beautiful schooner yacht winch dropped her anchor almost within a gunshot of the pier. The interesting stranger, with entrance lines sharp an arrow, and gracefully rounded counter, quite as eloquent, by the way, to a sailor’s eye as an exquisite ankle in the ball-room, with spars tall and tapering to the clouds, might well have served for the “Witch of the Wave” in the pages of romance. She measures about 100 tons, and shone so in varnish and gilding that the honest sailmaker of the port was afraid to board her for fear, as he averred, of making a single scratch on her polished rides. Coppered the bends and manned by ten gallant sailors she might well be a floating home on the sunny waters of the Mediterranean as on the foaming tide of the Scottish shore. But a new interest was felt io the fair visitor when it transpired that she was the property that esteemed native of Anstruther, John Williamson, Esq , of the  well-known Liverpool firm Messrs Williamson, Milligan, & Co. Mr Williamson, who is accompanied his family, has been on a summer cruise along the east coast of France, and amongst the bays and headlands of England, and was on the voyage round the North of Scotland to the Forth, he embraced the opportunity to pay a passing visit and receive a cherished mother’s welcome in the old home of Anstruther.

WANTED. TWO Active Stout YOUNG WOMEN to Oil. Wages good. Apply to J. MARTIN, Cellardyke.

1876

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE ANSTRUTHER. THE MANAGERSHIP OF THE GAS COMPANY. The Directors of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Gas Company, at a meeting held last night, unanimously appointed Mr Thomas A. Dalzell manager in room of Mr Adamson, who recently resigned the office.

N.B – Thomas Dalzell owned the Ironmongers in the High Street, Anstruther, He had purchased it from James Readdie. When he sold the buisness it was to two of his employees a Gray and Pringle.. which became the company we know now.

STORM AND LOSS OF LIFE. ‘ EIGHT LIVES LOST AT PETERHEAD. ………. A boat was seen a good distance from the land, and as she appeared to be unequal to the storm these on shore made preparations to assist the crew, but their efforts were all in vain. The craft which came from Cellardyke, Alexander Watson, skipper, was now attempting to get into the South Harbour; but something about the sail went wrong, so that she ran direct on the rocks and was dashed to pieces. Four of the crew and a boy managed to jump on to the rock and were rescued, but an elderly man, who got entangled among the nets, very nearly lost his life. While the sea was washing over him a young man named John Davidson bravely went to his assistance, at the risk of his own life, and succeeded in getting the poor man on to dry land safely. By this time the shore was crowded by thousands of spectators, and the excitement was intense, as several other boats were still in sight of land.

STONEHAVEN. Owing to the storm very few boats reached here on Thursday, and few had herrings, and a number had lost their nets mere or less. A Cellardyke boat, No. 1158. Davidson master, arrived here the forenoon of Saturday from the fishing ground, having remained by his nets since Thursday. He had 113 nets, being his own and his father’s, (who is in another boat, and was driven off by the storm), and also a few belonging to another boat. He reports seeing other nets. Several boats left here on Saturday for the ground in search of their nets.

Aberdeen, One boat has not been heard of since Monday morning. She belongs to Cellardyke, and is named the Six Brothers. Her skipper is named John Dickson, belonging to Cellardyke, and two of his sons are also on board, as well as three hired men — a Frenchman, an Englishman, and Irishman. The boat was pretty well provisioned before she left, and so far as food is concerned it is not believed that the crew would be in great difficulties; but it is doubtful whether they have managed to weather the storm.

Information has been received here that the Cellardyke boat, which had been missing since Monday, arrived at Peterhead all safe this afternoon.

Fraserburgh – About midday a boat belonging to Cellardyke arrived, bringing the sad intelligence that a Buckie boat, George Thain, skipper, had been swamped, and having on board the sole survivor of her crew of seven men. The brief story told is that the craft was struck by a heavy sea while holding by the nets, and was capsized. A thick wet fog prevailed at the time. The crew consisted of Thain, the skipper, his three sons, and three hired men from Ross-shire. The eldest son floated on the oars, and was picked up in an exhausted condition. Two of the hired men were brothers, and the third their cousin.

Charles Bain, one of the crew of a Cellardyke boat, registered at Kirkcaldy No. 2, was swept overboard while sitting on a spar on the side of the boat about 20 miles out. He was 54 years of age, leaves a widow and large grown-up family, and resided in Leven, Fifeshire.

KY2 was the Cellardyke Boat, Catherine Fowler Skipper James Smith Robertson

SCOTCH BANKRUPTS. (From the Edinburgh Gazette of Friday evening) John Alexander Millar boatbuilder, Cellardyke.

HERRINGS FROM THE DEEP SEA.—As many as nine Cellardyke boats returned home to refit their “drifts” in the course of Friday and Saturday last. In crossing the celebrated Mar Bank, or Second Reef, the  appearance of herrings was so encouraging that most of crews had cast out their nets, and one case Skipper Keay came into Cellardyke with 58 crans for his merchant, Mr Cormack, though the agreement for the season refers specifically Aberdeen. The ” Black Prince” landed 48 crans at Anstruther pier, when the place of the Aberdeen curer was taken by David Keith at the price of 20s a-cran. By these arrivals 38 crans were brought on Friday, and 125 on the following day, being total of about 175 for the week. The success on the Marr Bank has greatly revived the hope once more establishing the herring trade the East of Fife,

1878

THE LATE CASE OF DROWNING OF A CELLARDYKE FISHERMAN. In our paper of the 12th ult. we recorded the death by drowning, on the 10th July, of John Montador, jun., whilst engaged at the fishing off Stonehaven. He was skipper of the boat Jacobines, and in setting the jib-sail he tripped his foot and fell overboard and was drowned, his body not reappearing at the time. It was only on Saturday night last that his body was found washed ashore at the back of the old quay of Stonehaven, after being twenty-two days in the water. It was immediately landed and coffined by a number of fishermen and others, decomposition not having attacked his body to so great an extent might have been expected. On Monday his corpse was conveyed to the railway station by a large and sympathising concourse of people, among whom were about 300 fishermen, and it arrived here on Tuesday, and was taken to his own home. The funeral took place yesterday, and was largely attended, much sympathy being felt for his widow and children, four in number, the eldest being only seven years old.

ALARMING ACCIDENT AT FRASERBURGH. An alarming accident happened last week at Fraserburgh a young Cellardyke fisherman, Alex. Pratt, while trying to avoid a collision in the fresh breeze with a “scaffie” boat was severely crushed between two gunwales. His mother was telegraphed for home, but with attention and care his friends have every hope of his ultimate recovery

ENTERPRISING FISHCURERS. Mr Thomas Jenkins, fishcurer, Aberdeen and Burghead. and Messrs Sharp and Murray, Cellardyke, hare each engaged tug boat, at considerable sum per month, to be at the service of their boats during the fishing season at Aberdeen.

1879

With one exception, the whole of the Cellardyke boats have been engaged at the stations on the north-east coast, and hence the quantity of herring landed has been very small. Last week. however, a shoal of herring was met with at the mouth of the Forth, a short distance from land. No such large quantities of herring have been caught so close to Anstruther during the summer season for several years, and the fishermen engaged express the opinion that had there been a number of boats on the ground a good fishing might have been made. This week it is expected that a good many crews will make a trial in the Firth.

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1870

There is as yet very little to report of the fishing off this coast, and this has arisen not so much from want of fish as to the continued absence of our boats at the northern stations. All the boats fishing here since our last report have obtained herrings to a more or less extent, with the exception of a few on Wednesday night, and some of them have had pretty fair shots. One boat on Friday last had no fewer than 30 crans, and others have had takes of 8, 10, and 12 crans on the other days, which indicates that the fish are on the ground, and that, if our whole fleet were now here, the fishing would be good. The weather was uncommonly thick or misty from Monday night till Wednesday morning, which greatly hindered operations; and there being at the same time little or no wind to carry the boats up from the month of the Firth, the quantity landed is much less than it would have been had these unfavourable circumstances not occurred. As compared with the last two years the quantity landed here up to this date is considerably in advance, or three times as great as in 1868 and 1869. Considering the still uncertain and risky nature of the trade by the war breaking out, prices here are keeping up well, but this in a great measure has been owing this week to the most of the herrings being bought for retail fresh. Very little of them have as yet been cured in this quarter.

The following is a statement of the take at Anstruther and Cellardyke for the week ending yesterday (Thursday).:—

Boats out.            Highest.                Total crans.         Prices.

Friday,                  70                           30                           90                           16s to 27s

Saturday              90                           12                           80                           18s to 27s

Tuesday               30                           8                             18                           25s to 27s

Wednesday,       8                             7                             17                           24s to 34s

Thursday              14                           12                           35                           24s to 27s

Total for the week,          240

Previous catch,                  160

Total for the season,       400

At same date last year, 15

Year 1868,                           86

DOG-FIGHTING. – A burgh court was held here yesterday—Bailies Sharp and Watson on the bench. John Scott, carter, Cellardyke, was charged, at the instance of the burgh fiscal, with committing an offence within the meaning of the Act 13 Viet. c. 92, entituled “An Act for the effectual prevention of cruelty to animals (Scotland) 1860,” by encouraging and inciting a dog in his charge to fight with another dog belonging to George Henderson, Cellardyke, on the evening of Monday the 18th of July, near the town hall, in consequence of which both dogs fought for a considerable time and injured each other, whereby he rendered himself liable to a penalty not exceeding £5. The panel pled guilty, and he was sentenced to pay a fine of 10s or go to prison for ten days. Bailie Sharp said the bench had mitigated the penalty in order to allow the panel an opportunity of paying the fine, but should he appear again before them on a similar complaint, it would be more serious for him, as the Magistrates were determined to put an end to the practice.

1871

On Monday afternoon a lamentable accident happened near the Bell Rock, by which a young man named Andrew Carstairs, one the crew of the Cellardyke fishing boat ” Planet,” No. 22 (Skipper Duncan McRuvie), lost his life. He had gone to the side of the boat to draw some salt water with the “peggin”—a wooden vessel fitted with a long handle —when in attempting to lift it on board he was dragged overboard by the strength of the current, owing to the speed at which the boat was going through the water. This circumstance, however, enabled the boat to tack with the utmost readiness, but promptness and activity were all unavailing, as before the drowning young man could be reached, his boatmates, looking with feelings not to be described, saw him throw his arms into the air, and then sink into a watery grave. Carstairs was about twenty years of age ; but however short his lifetime he had been peculiarly the child of misfortune and sorrow. In early youth he was deprived by death of both his father and mother, and some years ago melancholy calamity having overtaken his maternal grandmother, who lived in comfortable circumstances in Crail, he was sent into the world all homeless and friendless growing up without any steady employment, and open to every snare and temptation around him ; and now that his brief blighted life is over, leaving few if any to mourn his untimely fate

1872

Several French fishing vessels have arrived Anstruther harbour this season for the purpose buying the old nets of the Cellardyke fishermen, with which to prosecute the herring fishing in the North Sea. These vessels are lugger rigged; but, though clumsy in appearance, they are good sea boats. They have crew of twenty men and boys, who, when compared with our fishermen, have few if any of the comforts of life. Sleeping, in their clothes on the hard planks, and using cider only instead of hot tea or coffee, where for dinner they have a miscellaneous diet of fish, flesh and vegetables, which they devour out of the cooking pot, in the same way that country urchins sup their porridge out of same bowl. Notwithstanding, however, the many discomforts such a life, they maintain all the gaiety and flow of animal spirits so characteristic of French men; and on an evening they land from their vessels and dance and caper and sing with all the glee children, drawing around them large numbers of the town folks, who enjoy many hearty laugh over their fantastic manoeuvres. The French luggers, though fitted out with gear which the Scottish fishermen regard as useless, are frequently very successful in the North Sea; but they are the dread of our home crews, who have not only reason to fear a collision with their stronger tackling, but who also not suspect then wrongly of pirating their nets and herrings.

A boy named Alex. Martin, ten years of age, son of Skipper Alex. Martin, was drowned last week a little to the west of Cellardyke harbour.

VESSEL ASHORE ON THE ISLAND OF MAY.— During the heavy fog which prevailed on Monday morning a schooner, which was afterwards found to be the “Louisa Henrietta,” Schmidt master, with a cargo of sleepers from Riga to Leith, went ashore on the north-east side of the May, not far from the spot where the Matagorda’ was wrecked. The vessel was observed by Captain McDonald, of the Fishery cruiser Vigilant,’ who went to the island with the view of rendering any assistance in his power. One of the Cellardyke boats, Skipper George Moncrieff, also went in to the island in the afternoon, and brought the captain and the mate over to Anstruther, where they telegraphed for a steam-tug, which arrived on Wednesday evening, and proceeded to the island. Early next morning the vessel was got off the rocks, with the loss of her keel, and other damage. She was taken to Alloa by the tug the same day.

Prosecution Under the Lindsay Act. Magistrates of Kilrenny held a Court on Saturday, under the provisions of the ” General Police and Improvement (Scotland) Act 1862″–Bailies Sharp Watson being on the bench—when the following parties appeared at the bar charged with having contravened that clause of 251^st  section of said Act.

By which ” every person who causes any public carriage, sled, or barrow with or without horses or any beast of draught or burden to stand longer than is necessary for loading or unloading goods or for taking up or setting down passengers (except hackney carriages and horses or other beasts of draught or burden, standing in any place appointed for that purpose by the Commissioners or other lawful authority)” are to a penalty not exceeding 40s or fourteen days’ imprisonment. James Myles and Alex. Carmichael, two young carters of Cellardyke, were severally accused of having their carts standing unyoked in East Forth Street on the 6^th  ult., to which they pled guilty, and were sentenced to a fine of 7s 6d or 8 days’ imprisonment. David Keith, fish merchant, was charged with a similar offence in West Forth Street on the 31st ult. He pleaded guilty, and justified his cart being unyoked in the place and time in question, which he said had not been for more than two hours because he  had received conflicting orders about the delivery of the first hire. He also complained of the enforcement of this particular section of the Act in place like Cellardyke, where the fishermen, he said, had always been in the habit, and necessarily so, of lying o their nets in the streets, and nothing was more common than to see herring barrels rolled out on the roads during a herring fishing. Under these circumstances he held that the strict observance of the Act impossible, and that the very attempt to enforce might bring any or all, even the most respectable inhabitants, as criminals to the bar, for unless there was to be a respect of persons, what was the case of carter to-day might be the case of the fisher or the merchant to-morrow.” For these reasons Mr Keith adhered to his plea of not guilty, when Police-Constable William Mackay was called, and having deponed to the charge, the magistrates, in respect of the evidence of one or more credible witnesses,” the same proved, and sentenced Mr Keith to a like fine of 7s. Janet Fowler, widow of Mr James Christie, was then called, when her son came forward ,to plead in her defence, but her own attendance being indispensable for the hearing of the case, a warrant was issued for her apprehension, which was at once acted upon by the constable, and the panel was brought to the bar. She was charged with having her cart unattended in the Urquhart Wynd on the 18th ult., to which she pleaded not guilty, and said that the cart, was only so standing for half an hour after coming home from the coals. The police-constable also deponed to the indictment, but in consideration the peculiar circumstances of the case, the magistrates dismissed this panel with an admonition from the bar.

1873

The annual Summer holiday was observed in Anstruther and Cellardyke yesterday. The weather being fine, a large number of persons availed themselves of the special railway excursion to Stirling, where the Highland and Agricultural Society’s show is attracting numerous visitors. The most of the farmers in the neighbourhood, it ought to be mentioned, kindly gave their employees a trip to see the show yesterday.

1874

Storm in the North

Of the boats arrived at Stonehaven yesterday, several had takes of from 10 to 20 crans. A number of the boats belonging to that port report the loss of from 12 to 18 nets each. The skipper of one boat, belonging to Cellardyke, reports the loss of all his fleet of nets, and states that other boats are in the same condition. A North boat, fishing from Aberdeen, was towed into Stonehaven with her mast through her bottom. Several old fishermen who have been many years at sea declare they never experienced such a night.

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1865

Distribution of the Subscriptions for the late boat accident

On Saturday evening the committee which was originally formed for the purpose of collecting and distributing the subscriptions for the widows and children of the fishermen who perished on the 10^th May, met in the Free Church Hall here. Present, James Fowler, David Murray (Sharpe and Murray); Mr R Cunningham Baxter; Mr C Carstairs, Mr G Barclay Rodger, and Mr A Watson Murray…… It was resolved that a monthly allowance of £6 18s should be paid to each of the three widows which they should receive at the shop of Messrs Sharpe and Murray on the first Monday of each month. It was also agreed to impress upon the widows the importance of sending their children regularly to school, and that the school fees should be paid out of the fund. Mr Murray was also empowered in the event of any extraordinary emergency befalling any of the families to afford what extra assistance he might consider needful in that circumstances. The meeting likewise resolved that the amount of subscriptions, after allowance had been paid, should be deposited in the commercial bank at Anstruther. The committee which is to meet quarterly adjourned.

Herring Fishing. A general commencement has been made here in the Lammas herring drave. The result as yet has been very poor. The number of boats belonging to Anstruther or Cellardyke at the fishing this year is 173; at Pittenweem, 58; St Monance, 104; Largo and Buckhaven, 138; and St Andrews, 16-or a fleet of 489 boats.

1866

Proposed boat race – last week, in our notice of the new fishing vessel, we stated her designer, Captain Hughes, was so confident of her superior sailing qualities that he had offered a premium of ten pounds to any of the Cellardyke fishing boats that would outstrip her in a sailing match round the island of May from Anstruther harbour. Whatever the result of the match may be it is likely to be contested with spirit and resolution, as one of the largest of our fishing boats has been placed in a position to take up the challenge whenever the Pioneer shall be ready for sea; and as her equipment is expected to be completed in the course of the next week, the race may thereafter be daily looked for. As the outfit of the new vessel goes on it continues to attract the attention and, we may add elicits the criticism of our fishermen. She will be what is called ‘very taught rigged’ as her main mast will be over sixty feet above the deck. There will be 226 yards of Canvas in her mainsail, 120 yards in her mizzen sail and the same number in her jib; and when we add this to her fore sail and her gaff topsails for her main and mizzen masts, the Pioneer will have a total spread of canvas of not less than 650 yards. In our former notice we gave the tonnage as over 80 tons, builders measurement, and nautical readers will have some conception of her sharp build when it is stated that her registered tonnage is only a fraction over twenty five tons

It’s an ill Wind that blaws naebodv Guid.

A-somewhat singular -instance of this familiar old saying occurred the other day in the experience of a worthy Cellardyke merchant, who deals very largely in oilskin clothing for fishermen. Amongst the many retailers in all parts -of the coast that are supplied from the Cellardyke establishment was a party the north of Scotland, who, in addition to his home business, engaged this season in the Lewis curing speculation, which, as your readers know, has turned out most ruinously, and reduced some to absolute bankruptcy. Amongst this class was our “norlan” friend, to whom, according to order, a considerable assortment of oilskins were despatched a week or two ago. Conform to mercantile method, an invoice had been sent off with the goods, which were to be forwarded to their destination by a sailing packet. The post, of course, was entrusted with the carriage of the invoice, which arrived north in due time. Instead, however, of a remittance in return, our Cellardyke’ merchant received from his northern customer an intimation bankruptcy. As was very natural in the circumstances the merchant was fairly taken aback by such a notice. He soon, however, recovered his usual vigour and promptitude, and recollecting that the easterly winds, which were being loudly and generally complained of by seafaring people would possibly have detained the vessel behind her time, the telegraph was forthwith set to work to ascertain the fact, when the gratifying intelligence was flashed back by return that the pallet was still in Leith. As a matter of course the merchant lost no time in hastening thither and regaining possession his goods which but for the ” ill winds,” would have been virtually lost to him.

Kilrenny Burn. —This fine streamlet, which is largely use by the inhabitants of Cellardyke and Kilrenny for washing and bleaching clothes, as well as by the farmers of the neighbourhood for watering their bestial, was likely to have been rendered altogether unfit for these important purposes in consequence of the operations connected with Messrs Rowett and Yool’s paraffin manufactory. It appears that the aqueous vapours evolved in the manufacturing process after being condensed into water, which, with other substances, is highly charged with ammonia, had been emptied on the field contiguous to the work, where by entering a drain it obtained an access to the burn. The stream was thus rendered so offensive and deleterious that cattle and horses not only instinctively refused to drink it, but the eels and minnows were found large numbers lying dead on its banks. As the water was also made use of to some extent for domestic purposes by  the inhabitants of Kilrenny, considerable inconvenience was occasioned to them being de- rived at a time of drought of what had been hitherto considered unstinted and unfailing supply. Very general complaints have been thus expressed with regard to the tainting of the stream, but it is gratifying to state this will be only of a temporary nature, Mr Yool is doing all that he possibly can the meantime by emptying the foul water on a part the field where it is not expected to communicate with the burn, to avoid polluting “the crystal brook” with any further influx from his works. We further understand that, in the event the paraffin works turning out successfully, arrangements will be made by which the well known manure, sulphate of ammonia, will be produced from the water which has given rise to the outcry, so that the public will soon be again in possession of their inestimable privilege as pure and uncontaminated as ever.

1867

Lifeboat Exercise and Inspection.— On Saturday last, the lifeboat Admiral Fitzroy. was inspected by Captain Robertson, R.N., of the Royal National lifeboat Institution, when the crew also went through their quarterly exercise, under the coxswain. Alexander Fowler. Cellardyke. The serene and beautiful weather which prevailed the occasion rendered the proceedings altogether, of course, of formal nature, but the very expert way in which the men handled the oars and trimmed the sails, drew from the inspecting officer some hearty expressions of satisfaction and praise, for it told to his, as to every experienced eye, that the skill and efficiency which were so steadily displayed by the gallant fellows under the bright summer sky. and an unruffled sea, would be as ready and able to do good and gallant services when winter’s storm was whistling in fury, and the roaring billows were chafed into foam. Captain Robertson also expressed himself as highly gratified with the prompt attendance which the crew had given to their exercises season when the time and attention of the fisherman are so much taken up by the preparations for the herring fishing, and to mark his sense of their laudable spirit and conduct a tangible way be ordered them receive the allowance awarded for practice in rough weather. While inspecting the boat and her appurtenances, he likewise complimented William Parker, for the thorough clean and serviceable manner in which everything was kept, and altogether the result of his official visit appeared to be source of satisfaction to all concerned.

1868

On Tuesday, Mr J. Hendry, the Custom House officer on duty, apprehended a man named John Jack in the act of attempting to smuggle a quart of brandy from the French lugger St Marie. Jack is one of the crew of the boat Neptune, belonging to Cellardyke, and when apprehended, the bottles were found secreted beneath his guernsey. The prisoner was kept in custody all night, and taken before Robert Walker, Esq, one of the Justices of the Peace next morning, when he was fined 7s, the value of the brandy, and 9s.of expenses

Stonehaven –  Death of a Cellardyke boat’s crewman

Sudden Death.—On the morning of Sunday last, John Buchanan, a fisherman, belonging to Prestonpans, was brought ashore from a Cellardyke boat, in a dying state. He was immediately taken to a lodging where he was attended to by Dr Thom. He found the man in an unconscious condition, and did everything in his power to alleviate his symptoms. The man died shortly afterwards, and, we understand, that notwithstanding report that he had received injuries before landing, the result of the whole examination-fiscal and medical—was that the man had died from natural causes. Buchanan leaves a widow entirely unprovided for. A scheme for aiding her in some degree was set on foot by some of Mr Methven’s coopers which by the generosity of their fellow-tradesmen was enabled to be carried out. A subscription list was made out, and fifty-three boats’ crews contributed L.2 14s 6d, which the curers, coopers, fish-buyers, and others engaged in the same line of business raised to the fair sum of L.4 7s. But this sum we are sorry to state was considerably reduced by the payment of several suras to parties who, if they had acted in the same generous spirit the contributors, would have given up their claims. It is to be regretted that such a want of benevolence on the part of a few should counteract the benevolence of the many. The deceased was buried here on Tuesday.

Fishing Gear Destroyed. —The piratical attacks foreigners on the gear of British fishermen are every day becoming more audacious and frequent. Last week the crew of a Cellardyke deep sea going boat—that belonging to Skipper Martin Gardiner had their lines cut, and several pieces taken away in perhaps as barefaced a manner as ever sea robbery of the kind was attempted. The Cellardyke men observed a smack hovering rather suspiciously about their gear, but the signal flag that marks the end of the lines was seen the distance, nothing was thought to amiss until, as the process of drawing in the gear went on, it was found that a long stretch had been cut away by the foreigners who had then tied on the signal with the object of deceiving our fisherman until an escape could effected which they were only too fortunate in doing, so before the place was reached the smack was miles away. On arriving at Anstruther. Skipper Gardener reported the circumstances to Mr Gillies, whose representations to the Fishery Board are likely to lead to a cruiser being appointed to watch over the interests of British fishermen in the North Sea. This is certainly a matter that demands attention. Although much less numerous than in former years there is still a considerable fleet of Belgian and Dutch smacks or busses engaged in handline fishing the North Sea, and these vessels are of a large tonnage and well manned they have only too many opportunities of molesting the fishing boats of the coast, and this would appear to their policy unless they receive a prompt and decided check by the authorities.

At the Sheriff Criminal Court on Monday—Sheriff Taylor presiding—John Wilson, a vagrant from Cellardyke, pled guilty to the theft of a duck from a duck-house at Milton Mains, and was sentenced to 14 days’ imprisonment, with hard labour for seven days.

The Board of Fishery has intimated, through its active officer, Mr Gillies, that every effort is being made by communicating with the British Consuls at Ostend and Dunkirk to recover the long lines of which there is every reason to suspect they were plundered by the fishing smacks of these ports. The fishery board thus hold out a hope to the Cellardyke and Pittenweem fishermen, who were so plundered, of compensation for the past as it promises most distinctly protection for the future. The energy and spirit with which the Board has acted in this matter deserves the highest praise. At their instance samples of the sea gear have been supplied by the injured fishermen, which it is understood has been forwarded to the Consuls, in order that in searching the vessels, if British lines be on board, the offence may be at once convicted and punished.

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1860

Stonehaven – Our Fishermen—We are glad to observe a marked improvement in the habits of the fishermen engaged in the prosecution the herring fishing here this season, from what used to be witnessed on former years. The absence of a great amount of the drinking which formerly characterised this part of our community while here engaged in their calling, their attendance on Divine worship, and holding of frequent religious meetings speak well for the effects of the revival work which has been reported from time to time going on in their midst. In addition to the ordinary congregational and social meetings for prayer, since the arrival of the fishermen here (from Cellardyke, Ferryden, and Cullen) meetings have been held on the Saturday evenings at eight o’clock, in Donaldson’s School-room, and on Sabbath mornings at ten, a room kindly granted and fitted up by Miss Forbes, old Town for the purpose, during the fishing season. Meetings were also held in both places last Sabbath evening after Divine service, and the exercises engaged in were chiefly conducted by themselves The Rev. Mr Dougal of the Free Church preached, by request, to a large meeting in the open air at three o’clock, who listened with deep attention to his earnest exhortation

1861

CELLARDYKE. Hairbreadth Escape. On Monday last, while the fishermen were employed launching their boats for the forthcoming herring fishing, one of their number, named Robert Ritchie, narrowly escaped with his life. While pulling the rope attached to the boat his foot slipped, and fell in front of the carriage. Before, its impetus could be arrested, one the wheels passed over his shoulder, providentially inflicting no greater injury than dislocating the bone. He was immediately conveyed home, and his recovery is progressing favourably. Although the use of the carriage materially adds to the safety and ease of these operations, yet, from the weight of these large boats, and the long and narrow way over which they are transported, they are still attended with considerable risk, the more especially as they are conducted with that activity and fearlessness which so imminently characterise our fishermen. It is, therefore, greatly to desiderated that more care and prudence were evinced where the safety life and limb are so intimately concerned.

STEAMERS ON THE FISHING GROUND TO THE EDITOR OF THE JOHN O’GROAT JOURNAL. Sir,—As the time is now drawing near when all the fishermen in the different towns on the Firth of Forth and other places will be engaged in prosecuting the herring fishing, the undersigned earnestly entreat the attention of the owners and commanders of those steamers plying from Leith, Granton, Grangemouth to London, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Hull, and Newcastle, and vice versa to endeavour to avoid doing injury to the property of the fishermen, by keeping outside of the boats and nets during the herring fishing season, which only lasts for little more than six weeks, and is carried on during the darkness of the night, which makes it the more dangerous, It is  impossible for these boats to get out of the way of the steamers, while they for a twenty  or thirty minutes more sailing at most – suppose it were sixty minutes —may easily avoid such a fearful accident as the loss of the boat “Paragon” of Newhaven, which was run down: by the “Clarence” steamer, killing the master, and losing a new first-class boat with the whole drift of nets to the value of £200, besides the loss of the best of the fishing. In this case all the recompense the Company has given is fifty pounds for the loss of the boat, nets and life, and to  support five orphan children, to whom alone four times  this sum ought to have been allowed over and above the full value of boat and nets, which would be £200, and at the least average for the Joss of the fishing £100, or in all £500, The half of the sum given -£25 —is appropriated to the children, and the surviving owner got the other half, whereby he has lost as his share in boat and nets £75, and has been deprived of the means of gaining his bread, and is unable to replace them. Surely it would have been a trifle to such an able company, and nothing but justice to have paid the full value of the boat and nets, besides the above sum for the loss of the fishing and of life, and for the of the orphan children. We hope the owners and commanders of these steamers will think seriously of this and in future study to avoid such a fearful calamity.

We the undersigned fishermen in Cellardyke would feel obliged to the editor of the John O’ Groat Journal for the insertion of the foregoing, as year by the loss and destruction of nets and bladders, which could easily be avoided by these steamers keeping outside of the boats, which would not take above an hour’s more sailing, and would lessen the risk of life we run.

David Brown.

 John Salter

William Smith &c &c

Cellardyke, July 10, 1861. | [The document is signed by thirty-six fishermen.]

Arbroath – Numbers of boats frequent Arbroath harbour during the fishing season from Auchmithie, East and West Haven, and even from Cellardyke: and complaints are made by some of these strangers of the want of proper red lights at the entrance to the harbour. Surely the Harbour Trustees will not allow these complaints be made, without taking means to remedy the defect. It is believed that much money would not be required to erect the necessary pillars and lights.

1862

A grey shark, 18 feet in length was captured in Cellardyke, a few days ago, in the act of swallowing a cod caught in some lines.

Accident.—On Wednesday last, accident a serious nature occurred to a young woman, named Catherine Pratt, belonging to Cellardyke. She had been assisting the barking of some sails, and, while carrying a hand-barrow tubful the boiling liquor used for the purpose down a steep lane, at the west end of the town, her foot slipped, and the greater portion the contents were spilled over her person, scalding her, particularly about the arms and shoulders, in a most fearful manner. The unfortunate sufferer lies in a very distressed condition, but hopes are entertained her recovery.

Curious.—ln the course of last week a cat belonging to family in Cellardyke had kittens, one of which would appear to have been formed when Dame Nature was in frolicsome mood. It had two faces, one on each side of the head, which was unusually large. It appeared to have three eyes, two being so closely joined together as. to seem but one. Each nose and mouth (situated directly below the ear) was well formed, as were the other parts of the body. Shortly after birth it was killed by its mother, but it has been carefully preserved a medical gentleman, who, we understand, is to present the museum of St Andrews College.

Most of the Cellardyke boats have this week proceeded to Gourdon or Stonehaven, where we understand their success has been little encouraging at the home station.

1863

The lugger “Alexandra,” which has been lying idly since she was abandoned in the harbour by the Cellardyke fishermen has been fitted out or the herring fishing, and entrusted to the care of an English crew. She is provided with as many as fifty-nine nets, and sailed on Monday evening for her first cruise, the result of which is looked forward to with considerable interest.

Large numbers of men, principally from Skye and the Highlands, are arriving daily by the steamer and other conveyances in quest of situations as half dealsmen, and it exhibits in a marked degree the depressed state of labour in the country, that the supply will far exceed the demand, several have already left disappointed.

Montrose –Accident at the Harbour. —Yesterday, about midday, a great deal of excitement was occasioned the Dock in consequence of a horse and cart having fallen into a fishing boat lying at the protection wall on the west side of the dock gates. The cart, which belongs to John Burgess, was being backed nearer the edge of the quay for the purpose of taking in load of herrings, and there being nothing to check the wheels, the cart went over, dragging the horse after it. The horse and cart turned completely over, and fell into Cellardyke boat lying below. The shafts of the cart were cut off as quickly as possible, and the unlucky animal, which had been lying in a most uncomfortable position all the time, with its feet the air, was secured with ropes and hoisted on shore. Notwithstanding the dangerous fall, the horse appeared to have received little or no injury. The boat sustained no damage; and, although several parties were in the boat the time of the accident, no one was hurt in the least.

1864

We learn that the Leith tug steamer, Robert Scott, has sank in about five fathoms of water at the entrance of the harbour at Cellardyke, not far from Anstruther. The Robert Scott left Leith for Cronstadt, with a good supply of coal, last Sunday and, sometime after she had been at sea, it was found that the “donkey” was not in a good working state, and that water was gaining on her. At eight o’clock on Monday morning, after knocking about on the coast, the tug anchored at the spot where she now lies, and, five hours afterwards, she is reported to have sunk. The vessel, we believe, has been leased by a firm, and is insured for £2000. Should the weather continue fine, the steam-tug may be raised, but should it prove other-wise, the probability is that she will become a total wreck.

The steam vessel Robert Scott, which sprung a leak and sank off Cellardyke harbour at the beginning of last week, still lies under water except part of her mast.. Her funnel fell over in the end of the week, and it is not now expected from the rocky nature of the ground where she lies, that she can hold together much longer, even with the moderate weather of the last ten days. She is under the custody of the coast-guard at present.

Cupar court – Adam Scott, fish-cadger, residing in Pittenweem, pled guilty to having, on the night the or morning of the 15th July, committed a breach of the peace at Cellardyke, and was sentenced pay a fine 15s or go to prison for fifteen days.

THE FISHERY COMMISSION

The Commission met at Anstruther yesterday – Mr Caird M.P. and Professor Huxley being present. They arrived about eleven o’ clock in H. M, gunboat Salamis.

Thomas Fowler, fisherman, Cellardyke, was the first witness. From an experience of thirty years, he was well acquainted with the fishing trade. The herring fishing had in his opinion diminished for the past two or three years, while the white fishing, such as for cod , ling, and haddocks had increased.  He accounted for the increased white fishing by the larger boats now being used, the fishermen going farther out to sea, a larger quantity of fishing gear being used, and improved methods of fishing practised. A much greater quantity of fish was caught now as compared with ten or twenty years ago, though the catch by each particular boat might not be greater. The fishermen on this coast had no grievance to complain of, except that young herrings were killed along with the sprats further up the Firth, and that was the only cause he could assign for the decrease in the herring fishing. So far as he had seen, there was no interference on the part of the French fishermen with the local fishermen, and the Fishery Board cutter had seldom to interfere with them. The remainder of this witness’s evidence was devoted to information as to the particular periods when the several kinds of fish were caught. Trawling had lately been stopped except in St Andrews Bay where a few St Monance fishermen practised it.

David Corstorphine, fisherman, _was next examined, and certified to a decrease of white fishing in-shore, but to an increase when the boats went far out at sea. The quantities of lines now used was much again as that used twenty years ago. The fishermen had always plenty of bait which they got from the Clyde. The fishermen practised no method injurious to the fishing except sometimes using the fish for bait. The herring fishing always fluctuated, but there was a great decrease for the last two or three years. The fishermen found no interference with their trade to complain of, except that when they went north to fish, the French fishermen interfered a good deal with them when their nets were shot. As to the projected new harbour at Anstruther, he was of opinion that it would be a great advantage to the fishermen saving them from lying off shore waiting for water, and as being a central point to run to. He was one of _those who made application for the new harbour, and the fishermen had agreed to pay additional harbour dues to get it.

Alexander Welch, fish-curer, Pittenweem, gave evidence proving a great falling off in the fishing for the last two years. Trawl fishing had been practised in the Traith or Fluke Hole some years ago, but was now stopped. The trawling was done by St Monance men.

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