The Cellardyke Echo

1906

CELLARDYKE SCHOOL BOARD.—A meeting of the Board was held on Wednesday evening, Mr Lawson presiding. The attendance was submitted, also the census of the schools, showing that the number at Cellardyke School was 611 and at Kilrenny 89. Mr Lawson said that one of the political parties had asked to be allowed the use of the school for the night preceding the poll, as the other party had engaged both the Town and Forth Street Halls. As they allowed the other party to have Kilrenny School, he thought the request should be granted. All the other members except Mr Melville demurred, and the request was refused

The Gold Chain for the Provost—Messrs Elkington and Co., Ltd, of Regent Street., London, supplied the fine example of the goldsmith’s art in the shape of the gold chain for the Burgh of Anstruther Easter- The chain is made of 13 small and 3 large escutcheon links, the centre link charged with the shield of Archibald Williamson, Esqr,—the donor. The pendant badge is a skilful piece of wrought work, containing the arms of the Burgh. The chain shows excellent feeling for simplicity and beauty of design, and while it has been exhibited in Bailie Burd’s window it has been much admired .

LIFEBOAT CALLED OUT EXCITING SCENES AT THE HARBOUR About seven o’clock on Wednesday evening, a telegram was received from the Coastguard at St Monans, stating that a ketch was lying within 100 yards of the rocks there, and was being driven ashore. On receipt of this message, the Hon. Secretary of the Lifeboat Institution telephoned at once to Mr Melville, Cellardyke, who in turn communicated with the coxswain of the Lifeboat. William Sutherland. The latter immediately raced along to the lifeboat house, and quickly summoned the crew. Sutherland, besides being an excellent seaman, must be something of a runner also, as by the time the secretary got down to the boathouse Sutherland was already there, super intending operations. The boat was immediately got out, and launched, there being an abundance of willing helpers all the boats being in the harbour. By an unlucky chance it happened to be dead low water, and the carriage had to be pulled almost to the very mouth of the harbour. The crowd at the ropes dashed willingly into the heavy seas which came sweeping into the cut mouth, some of them being almost up to the necks in water, and when it could not be hauled any further out by these means the carriage was pulled back and the lifeboat slipped into the water. In going off the carriage, however, some of the rods of the steering gear struck and got bent, and some little delay was occasioned by this unfortunate occurrence. Up to the waste in water, willing helpers eagerly worked to remedy this and in a very short time the helm was properly shipped. The lifeboat was still striking on the ground, and could not be got off, but by the aid of a rope to the east pier, pulled by lusty arms, she was got afloat. The wind was blowing a perfect hurricane right in the mouth of the harbour, and this added to the difficulty of getting the boat to sea. Gradually however, she fought her way round the pier head, and to the back of the harbour, where, after striking once or twice on the rocks, she managed to make headway. Her successful attempt was greeted with hearty cheers by the large crowds who lined the east and west piers. Rapidly the vessel sailed up to St Monans, behaving splendidly, but on arriving there no signs of the distressed vessel could be discovered and a search was made along the shore. By torch a signal was made from St Monans to proceed eastwards, and the boats head was turned in that direction. Nothing, however, could be discovered of the whereabouts of the ketch, and after an hour’s search, the lifeboat was put about, and went out into the Firth, where, although they cruised about till nearly eleven o’clock, no trace of the vessel could be found, and the lifeboat then returned to Anstruther.

Only two of the crew had oilskins on, and the rest were sitting soaked the whole time the vessel was out.

Too much praise cannot be given to the fishermen for the eager way in which everyone assisted in getting the boat launched, local and strangers vying with one another in their efforts to help, dashing into the surf without any thought as to their own comfort. Those at the extreme end of the rope, must at times have been up to the neck, as the waves came sweeping in. The lifeboat too, has justified the faith placed in her as a trustworthy sea boat, as during the whole time out she behaved in a splendid manner, answering to the slightest touch of the helm, and amply proving her beating qualities.

1907

New Harbour Commissioner. — ln room of Mr John Carstairs (deceased), Andrew Pratt, Cellardyke, has been appointed a member of the Union Harbour Commissioner.

1908

81 George Street – THE LABELLING OF MARGARINE. Cellardyke Grocer’s Offence. James Scott, grocer, Cellardyke, admitted before Sheriff Armour at Cupar to-day having exhibited for sale margarine which was not labelled as such. In extenuation Mr Alf. E. Grosset said the barrel was quite distinctly labelled “margarine,” all that was a wanting was the label on the margarine itself. A year ago the Inspector called for 1 lb. of margarine, and when he got it wrapped up in paper on which was margarine printed, he handed it back, saying had bought it for the purpose of seeing if he had the proper wrapping. At that time the Inspector said nothing about the absence of the label on the margarine. It was difficult to see why all this carefulness should applied towards margarine, when much was distinctly superior to quantities of butter. Sentence of fine of 10s was passed.

THE LATE MR JAMES M. DUNCAN, ANSTRUTHER. A painful sensation was created in the district on Saturday night when the sad news became known that Mr James M. Duncan, draper, High Street, Anstruther, had died at seven o’clock. Tho shock was all the greater in that very few had been aware that he had been unwell, and it seemed incredible to many that one who was so full of bright and energetic life should have been so suddenly called away. A week previous Mr Duncan had contracted a chill, and in the first of the week it had developed into pleurisy, and afterwards into pneumonia, resulting in his death on Saturday evening. The event aroused very widespread feelings of regret and sympathy with his site and family, and on Sunday in the most of the Churches very sympathetic allusions were made in the prayers and sermons.

Mr Duncan was a native of Cellardyke, where he was born 72 years ago, his father being the late Mr Andrew Duncan, builder. He served his apprenticeship to the drapery trade with the late Mr Fowler, Cellardyke, in the shop at the east end of Cellardyke, now occupied by Messrs Scott. On Mr Fowler retiring from business, Mr Duncan got employment from the late Provost Murray in Anstruther, and early in the year 1861, he, along with Mr George White, took over Mr Murray’s business. The partnership of White & Duncan lasted till July 1869, when Mr White left for America, and ever since it has been conducted by Mr Duncan. The business one of the oldest established in the district, and among the most successful. Its traditions were weal preserved by Mr Duncan through his long period of occupancy, and the slight check of a few years ago was successfully grappled with, the business still remaining a most, remunerative one. Mr Duncan was a general favourite with all with whom he was brought into contact. His buoyant spirit and genial nature made him well-known to all, and enlarged the circle of his acquaintanceship among all classes. From the first he was induced to enter the Town Council, and had the unique record of having acted as treasurer of the burgh for the lone period of 21 years. He made a very efficient local Chancellor of the Exchequer, his books always being carefully and neatly kept. His work in this respect was much appreciated, and he never had any difficulty in retaining his seat at the Council during an election, his name being generally at the top of the poll. He was also a member of the Parochial Board, and when the Parish Councils came into vogue he held office in it for a term. In religious matters he was a staunch Voluntary, and was connected with the United Presbyterian Church in Anstruther in the early fifties of last century, when the congregation worshipped in the East Green. When the Erskine Church was opened in 1853 he was one of its active members, and continued until it was merged in 1904 in union with the Chalmers Church. He was for many years the treasurer of the Church, and also an elder. He took a keen interest in all matters affecting his Church, and always showed an intimate knowledge of the ecclesiastical world. In other ways, Mr Duncan took his share of public work, and was one of the promoters of the Bowling Club. His enjoyment of the game of bowls was always keen, and as treasurer and President for one year he did much to contribute to its prosperity as a successful source of recreation in the summer season. The departure of so well-known and highly respected a citizen induced a very large number to attend the funeral on Tuesday afternoon to pay their last tribute of respect. The flags on the Townhouse and Bowling Green were suspended half-mast, while the Town Council, headed by Provost Morris, met in the Council Chamber at a quarter past one o’clock and took part in the procession. A short religious service in the house was conducted by the Rev. Mr Mair, who also officiated at the grave. The pall-bearers were John and James Duncan, sons; Mr Alexander Duncan, and Mr John Duncan, Edinburgh, brothers; two nephews, Edinburgh; Mr A. C. Mackintosh, and Mr H. Watson, Anstruther. The coffin was covered with a number of beautiful wreaths, including One from the Merchants’ Association, while the shops were closed for an hour during the funeral. Mr Duncan is survived by a widow and a comparatively young family. ….

1909

The case of J. Brunton, J. Gen, W. Brown, and Watson Smith, fishermen, Cellardyke, against James Hodge, fisherman, Cellardyke, aroused great interest and the courtroom was packed. Mr T. D. Murray, solicitor, appeared for pursuers, while defendant was represented by Mr C. H. Maxwell. Pursuers held that the sum of £2 18s 9d fell to be divided among them as part of the earnings for the English fishing, and took exception to several items of the accounts presented by defendant. For the defence Mr Maxwell submitted the accounts of the proceeds of the Lowest and Yarmouth fishing. The vessel’s gross earnings had been £272 6d, out of which there had to be taken £135 2s 1d, as working expenses, leaving £136 19s 5d, out of that sum £54 16s 9d was paid to the owners, and left £82 3s 8d to be divided among the crew, out of that sum the living expenses of  the crew had to be taken, and the amount for division among the seven members of the crew was £41 17s 10 ½ d. Four shares of that were due the pursuers £23 18s 9d, and there had been paid to account £21. That was admitted by pursuers, and he would bring figures to prove that defendant was not due the balance. ( the newspaper reports the whole case word for word and takes up another two complete columns)

1905

On Thursday last week a heavy gale of south-west wind was blowing, and coxswain Sutherland decided to ive the new lifeboat a trial under the gale, the signal having been fired, the boat was launched and manned by crew No, 2. They proceeded to North Berwick where the boat was visited and favourably criticised by the fishermen there. On their return to Anstruther the crew commented favourably on the merits of the boat, especially in & heavy wind. Itis the intention of the coxswain to try the boat’s qualities in the first south-east gale, when the sea is usually heavier than in westerly winds.

Sale of a fishing boat – The large new fishing boat recently built by Mr Fulton has just been purchased by Messrs Robert and David Anderson Cellardyke. The craft is about 70ft long, in similar design and workmanship to those formerly supplied to Cellardyke owners by the same builder, and which have given so much satisfaction. Ample time is given for the fitting up of the boat, which is not required until the spring fishing. ( the boat was launched in March and called the Sunbeam)

Anstruther The very successful start which the fishing had in the middle of last week was continued on Friday, when the large fleet of 89 boats entered the harbour, including three from Inverness, three from Peterhead, and about a score from the Aberdeen and Montrose districts. …..

The fishermen intended to have gone off to the fishing at an early hour on Monday morning, and several of the smaller craft went to Elie to enable them to get out quicker, the inner harbour of Anstruther being very crowded. A severe gale made this impassible and the boats had to lie in the harbour until the afternoon when all got away with a favourable wind. Unfortunately, there was a renewal of the gale throughout the night, and very few of the boats reached the harbour by the morning tide. In the afternoon about half of the fleet arrived, and made the harbour with same difficulty. One Cellardyke boat, the Reliance, struck the concrete pier with some force, and damaged her stem, necessitating a new one being put in. A Peterhead boat ran ashore on the east beach, and also suffered some damage. The fishing was light, there being an average of three crans, or 156 crans of a total. The prices ranged from 27s to 33s.

OPENING ANNOUNCEMENT. J. SMITH, BEGS to intimate to the Inhabitants of CELLARDYKE ANSTRUTHER, and Surrounding Districts that he has commenced a DRAPERY BUSINESS at 38 John Street, Cellardyke, and hopes by paying strict attention to Business to merit a share of Public Patronage. J. SMITH, 38 John Street, Cellardyke.

CELLARDYKE HARBOUR CONTRACT DISPUTE.—We understand that the dispute over the contract between the contractors, Messrs Adams, Glasgow, and the Town Council has been amicably settled, and further litigation will be unnecessary.

SCOTTISH BANKRUPTS……..  Alexander Cathro, grocer. James Street. Cellardyke, carrying on a business  there under the name of Cathro and Company. Meeting to be held at twelve on Friday, 20^th January, in the Commercial Hotel Anstruther

FISHERMEN “HECKLERS.” CAPTAIN ELLICE AT CELLAIIDYKE. RETALIATION AND THE HERRING TRADE. Continuing his tour the Anstruther district, Captain Ellice addressed a public meeting of fishermen in Cellardyke Town Hall on Saturday evening. There was an attendance about thirty. Ex-Provost Thomson presided. The Captain first of all spoke of the number of questions which had been dealt with during the last session Parliament relating to fishermen. There was the question of the Norwegian fishermen in the Moray Firth, and after being investigated it was found that in reality these fishermen belonged to Grimsby. The Government had taken some action in the matter of illegal trawling.  He had strong feelings about the trawling questions, because there was a law that prohibited trawlers fishing within the three-mile limit. They were in reality poachers, and there were police for land poachers the Government should capture these poachers of the sea. (Applause.) A Bill had been introduced by Scottish members to regulate the whaling industry in Shetland, but this had been blocked. A Commission reported on the matter, and he hoped something would be done next session. (Applause.)

EXCITING SCENES AT ANSTRUTHER HARBOUR. For the last two nights very exciting scenes were witnessed at Anstruther harbour. The “neap” tides on Saturday prevented between 50 and 60 boats getting into the inner harbour, and as a severe south-east gale sprang up during the afternoon, and enormous seas were swept over the east pier into the outer harbour, they lay in a position of great danger. At night hundreds of fishermen congregated the piers and lent willing assistance to haul the boats inside, but as the boats already inside blocked the entrance, being unable to get further up the harbour for want of water, this was matter of some difficulty. Ultimately fully thirty more were crushed inside, but many of the fishermen remained on board all night in case of emergency. Last night a similar scene was witnessed. The very unusual action was taken of sending the town officer with the bell through Cellardyke summoning all the fishermen to attend at the harbour between seven and eight o’clock to give assistance to bring in the renaming boats. Almost every fisherman responded, and the middle and west piers were crowded with fishermen and spectators watching. Fortunately, there was a bigger tide, and the boats inside got further up the inner harbour, thus making room for the score of boats in the outer harbour, and by nine o’clock all were got safely in with comparatively little damage. There is a fleet of 150 boats in Anstruther at present prosecuting the fishing, and the want of deeper water in the harbour very much felt, but the incidents of the last two nights are likely to lead to a strong agitation, and an appeal being made to the Treasury to assist the Harbour Commissioners financially to carry out an imperative harbour extension, in which deeper water would be provided. Large numbers of fishermen remained on board their boats till an early hour this morning, and until the tide receded.

The Aberdeen liner White Queen, belonging Mr Thomas Walker, Aberdeen, has been purchased by Messrs John Birrell and Robert Moncrieff, Cellardyke.

1900

THE NEW YEAR HOLIDAYS. ANSTRUTHER AND CELLARDYKE Hogmanay falling on a Sunday, the New Year was ushered in in Anstruther and Cellardyke with comparative quietness, The streets on Sunday seemed to be quieter than usual, and the same remark might be made of Saturday night, when it was noticed that fewer people were moving about than on an ordinary Saturday. A good number left the town on Saturday, and the arrivals were more numerous than former years. The special trains run from Edinburgh and Glasgow did much to prevent a congestion of the traffic, but notwithstanding this the trains were somewhat late in arriving. On Sunday night, comparatively few people met at the Cross and in Rodger Street to usher in the New Year, an as soon as it was known that 1900 had dawned. coloured lights were shown and the usual wishes expressed. Snatches of songs with flute in accompaniment were sung, and then the first footers began their rounds. The weather throughout Monday was of the finest description, being dry and bracing. The roads in some parts were soft and slippery, but the causewayed streets aid pavements were very pleasant for pedestrians. The day being Handsel Monday, the farm servants helped to swell the crowds on the streets, the day being observed as a holiday by all except a number of -shopkeepers. Very little business was done, and the drapers and others were obliged to close in the afternoon. The outdoor attractions were a football match and a raffle at the Bridge, both of which were well patronised. Th e trains during the day were not much behind time considering the large number , travelling. Extra carriages had to be put on. There was a good deal of grumbling that there was no reduction of fares on Monday, the same as was granted on Saturday, but the reason given was that the Monday holiday was not being generally observed, and no advantage could be given on that account. In the evening in Anstruther Town Hall there was a dance, while in Cellardyke Town Hall, the Gospel Temperance Union held their annual social meeting. The town was fairly quiet in the evening, and the number of persons under the influence of drink was estimated to be under the average. The only annoyance was the firing of squibs on the streets, and this amusement of the youngsters was very largely indulged in all day. No accidents occurred, at least none were reported. The shopkeepers held their holidays on Tuesday and Wednesday, but the weather on Tuesday was wretched in the extreme, a pitiless rain falling all day, while the wind had veered to the east. So stormy was the outlook that neither the boats or the liners ventured out of the harbour. The conditions held good on Wednesday, when from the forenoon until late in the afternoon it rained very heavily at intervals. The sky became so dark between 12 and 1 o’clock that over the whole town artificial lights had to be resorted to. A good few shops were opened, but on account of the weather, and there being no fishing, very little business was done.

PRESENTATION AT CELLARDYRE TO MR JOHN MILLAR, POSTMAN. On Wednesday evening, Mr John Miller, postman, was presented in Cellardyke Town Ball with a gold watch and albert on the occasion of his leaving the district for Arbroath. The meeting was largely attended, and Provost Thomson presided. Treasurer Fortune, Councillors Melville and Black were on the platform. The Provost wished all present a very happy New Year. (Applause.) The purpose for which they were met was well known to them, and from the audience, which was very large considering the inclemency of the weather, it was evident that there was a distinctly hearty feeling over this presentation. (Applause.) Very often over affairs of this kind there is a decided lukewarmness caused by the feeling that there was no occasion for the presentation at all. But in all truth he could say that over this presentation to Mr John Millar, who has been for 11 years our postman, there is not the slightest trace of such a feeling. (Applause.) When it was first proposed to acknowledge Mr Millar’s faithful services to the community it was very heartily taken up, and the large number of subscriptions show how unanimous the feeling was in favour of it. ………….. Was it a wonder that a presentation should be proposed on his retirement, and was it a wonder that this proposal should have been heartily taken up and carried through? It was because he knew how hearty and spontaneous have been the feelings of all in connection with this presentation, and how willingly they have given to it, that he had very great pleasure in handling over, in the name of the subscribers, this watch and chain to Mr Miller. (Applause.) He hoped it would always remind him of his unselfish and faithful service, and that it would also be a token to him that he carried into his new life with its different duties the respect and good wishes of the people of Cellardyke and district. The inscription on the watch is as follows:

“Presented to Mr John Miller by his friends in Cellardyke and district as an expression of their respect and esteem. January 3rd 1900 ” The watch was bought from the stuck of Mr Donaldson, Shore Street, Anstruther. …….

Councillor Melville expressed the pleasure he had in being present. They would never get a better postman. (Applause.) He earnestly hoped that Mr Miller would succeed as well in his new undertaking as he had done as their postman. (Applause.) He hoped that at the end of 11 years he would be again presented with something tangible for producing some new boats. He noticed some present who were to get boats from Mr Miller, and he hoped the boats would be a great success. (Applause)

Treasurer Fortune said he entertained great respect for their postman because they all knew that everything was safe with him, and that all his duties would be faithfully discharged. (Applause.) He wished Mr Miller every success in his new undertaking into which he carried all their good wishes for his success. (Applause.)

Councillor Black said he had come to the meeting to show his esteem, and respect for Mr Miller. (Applause). Everyone could corroborate what had been so well said by Provost Thomson and others as to the obliging and painstaking way Mr Miller bad discharged his duties. He hoped the name firm of John Miller and Son will go over broad Scotland and England to with the fine boats they would build. Mr Miller had a name second to none in Scotland for building splendid fishing boats. (Applause.)

Mr Thomas Cunningham, Anstruther, heartily approved of the remarks made the very satisfactory manner in which Mr Miller had done his work. At the time this was the first occasion he had say he was pleased to receive a taxpaper from a postman. (Laughter.) That was the only thing he had against Mr Miller. (Laughter.) He hoped Mr Miller would be successful in building new boats. His father had built some splendid crafts, and two heads would be better than one, (Applause)

Bailies Williamson Butters also made a few remarks, the latter proclaimed a vote of thanks to the Provost for presiding. The meeting terminated with the singing of Auld Lang Syne.

STATE OF CELLARDYKE HARBOUR. CONFERENCE WITH MR ANSTRUTHER, M.P. In Town Hall, Cellardyke, on Friday evening. Mr Anstruther. M.P., held a conference with fishermen and others, and propounded scheme to restore Cellardyke Harbour, washed down by a storm in October. 1898. Mr Anstruther said a rough estimate had made to the cost of rebuilding the south pier, involving the sum of £1200, and he proposed that, in order to raise that amount, fourteen skippers of boats should insure their lines to the extent of £100. The annual sum to met would £87 or thereabouts. An income of £50 would be derived from laid-up boats during the winter, leaving £37 to be raised otherwise. Perhaps some of the other skippers might agree to become responsible for that amount. A discussion ensued over the scheme, and, while the majority of the fishermen present agreed as to the feasibility of utilising Cellardyke Harbour when restored as storage during the winter for laid-up boats, the financial proposal was left over for further consideration. Mr Anstruther, the motion of Mr H. Watson, was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for the great interest he took in fishing questions and the industry.

DEATH OF A PROMINENT FIFE MAN. The death occurred last night, at Cellardyke, of ex-Bailie Robert Brown, at the advanced age of 84. He was a prominent and fisherman, but retired upwards of 20 years ago, when he was elected a2 member of Kilrenny Town C He was appointed a magistrate, an office he retained for several years. He was also a staunch Free Churchman, and acted as an elder in Anstruther Free Church since the Disruption.

Battle of Magersfontein, Boer war

General Wauchope’s death Lost the Battle

JJ Moir writing from Camp Enslin on 14^th Dec to his parents in Cellardyke says;- It was an awful sight. The bullets were like a shower of hail and the shells were bursting all around us. God knows how I got clear, for I was in the thick of it. I felt the heat of a shell on my face. I never was so near being killed in all my life. There were bullets hitting all around me and whistling over my head. I have been in a few battles, but nothing like this, but thank God I got out of it all right. We would have beat them had our General not got killed. He was shot in three places. The troops seemed to get disheartened after that, and we got the word to retire. This is a very bad place to get water. I walked four miles that night after the battle to the river for a drink.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Magersfontein

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1895

CELLARDYKE PROPERTY SALES.—The house and garden, 69 John Street, were exposed for sale on Saturday Inst. The upset price was £30, and after keen competition the property was knocked down to Mr Mitchell, of Robert Watson & Co., for £75, The two-storey house, 2 Dove Street, was sold to the present occupant at £50, Other two properties were put up for exposure, but failed to find offerers.

FISHERMEN’S BENEFIT SOCIETY.—The annual general meeting of the Cellardyke Fishermen’s Union and benefit Society was held on Saturday evening—Mr Martin Gardner presiding. The Treasurer’s report showed that the Society had paid for sick and widows’ aliment during the year £74 15s 64d, and to annuitants £10 15s. Directors were appointed for this year and empowered to appoint arbittrs, After some discussion as to amendment on rules affecting new members, it was remitted to the directors to consult upon, and if advisable, call a special meeting for consideration of same.

FISHING NOTES.—The steam liners were not so fortunate last week as the week before, although some of them grossed fair sums, The expenses incurred through the bait being so expensive left almost nothing for division at the close of the week. None of them have ventured to sea this week owing to the severe weather, Considerable anxiety was felt u to the safety of the Shields liners, Bernicia and Hibernia, both of which are manned by Cellardyke crews ; but both were reported safe at Newhaven on Wednesday afternoon.

The Board of Trade has sanctioned the establishment of a fog siren on the Island of May.

MARRIED. Doig: —At 38 West Forth St. Cellardyke. on the 19th inst., by the Rev. Mr Macalpine, Alison B. Henderson, to Michael Doig, son of captain Doig, S.S Faith, Aberdeen.

1896

A TROUBLESOME FISHERMAN, —David Davidson. jun., fisherman, Cellardyke, was at the same Court charged with using obscene and abusive language, calculated to provoke a breach of the peace. He pled not guilty; but from the evidence of the police, it was proved that conduct like the accused’s was becoming very prevalent in Shore Street, several householders having complained to them about the language used by young men round about their doors. On the night in question they (the police) had cautioned Davidson, he still persisted in his conduct, He was convicted. and fined 7s 6d or 5 days.

A Sudden Death, a very sudden death occurred in Cellardyke on Monday, James Christie carter, aged 69, appeared in his usual health on Sunday evening when he retired to rest and was found dead in bed early on Monday morning, heart disease was the cause of death.

1897

The reopening of Cellardyke Public cost of fully £2500. The school is now one of the largest and best equipped in the East of Fife, and has accommodation for 650 pupils.

Sunday School Soiree

The annual soiree of the scholars attending Cellardyke Parish Sunday School, was held on Wednesday evening. There was a large gathering, between 600 and 700 being present. Rev. Mr Ray presided and spoke of the increase in numbers attending the school, and the consequent increase in the number of teachers….. A magic lantern exhibition was given by Messrs Dewar and Graham of the hope trust, Edinburgh. The story of George Wishart was told in a most graphic and deeply interesting manner by Mr Dewar, and the pictures that were put upon the screen were very beautiful and much admired. A miscellaneous collection of slides were also shown which greatly delighted old and young. The choir led by Mr Paittison, the organist, sang several anthems, and solos by Miss Maggie Keay, Miss Isabella Jack and Mr James Wood were capably and intelligently rendered …

1898

GIFTS TO THE POOR. —At the invitation of Mrs Oliphant of Mayview, a large number of the aged poor of the parish assembled in the session house of Cellardyke Church on Monday at mid-day, to receive their annual gift. The Rev. Mr Ray was present, and after a devotional service addressed a few seasonable words to the company. Before dispersing a hearty vote of thanks was given Mrs Oliphant for her thoughtfulness and generosity.

Cellardyke Fishermen’s Union and Benefit Society have the large sum of £1424 to their credit in the Bank, and a membership of 166.

At a meeting of shareholders on Wednesday of Cellardyke K. Y. Boot Company, a recommendation to wind up the Company was unanimously agreed to. The other proposal made was to transfer the work to Dundee, but this did not find a seconder.

Quote from the meeting

Mr Mathewson—All we want to find out is where the ship is leaking. If we find out the leakage we may be able to patch up the ship, but if we do not, we don’t know what to do. Mr Mclntosh said they had only been making 200 pairs a week, while the machinery could have turned out 600 easy enough. After they failed in getting men they tried boys, but they only stopped a short time in the factory. The place would never pay unless they got a supply of men to work the factory, and keep them continuously going. If they had had the output the machinery was able to put out the place would have been a profit.

Mr Mathewson expressed regret at the failure of the Company. He only took shares in it to encourage a local industry, and because he thought there would have been no difficulty in getting labour in Cellardyke. But it seemed that the difficulty had been to get a sufficient number of men to stay on in the work. Mr Mclntosh—The loss is entirely accounted for by want of output.

1899

DELIVERY OF HERRINGS At a meeting of fishermen in Cellardyke Town Hall on Wednesday evening—Mr James Jack presiding—it was unanimously agreed to appoint a committee to call on the Harbour Commissioners to make some arrangements for the laid-up boats for next season. It was also resolved that during the winter herring fishing no fish should be sold or discharged until 7.30 o’clock each morning.

On Tuesday the first herring for the season was delivered at Anstruther by the Cellardyke boat New Kate. A cran was put out, and sold at 25s per cran. With the same tide Rob the Ranter landed a shot of white fish which fetched £10.

CELLARDYKE READING ROOM. On visiting this useful institution the other day, we were agreeably surprised to see it so very well supplied with newspapers and books. It takes in the Daily Mail, Caledonian Mercury, Fife Herald, Scottish Press, Weekly News, John O’Groat Journal, Fifeshire Advertiser, and Illustrated London News; also, Hogg’s Instructor and Chamber’s Journal. In books, they have got Chamber’s Information for the people, History of French Revolutions, Selections from British Poets, Life of Nelson, and about 20 other volumes. On examining the list of members, we were surprised to find that they only numbered 28. The concern is very creditable to the members, but we fear that unless the Institution is better supported it cannot long be continued in its present efficient state. If this article should meet the eye of any who are in the habit of employing the people of the town, and who have hitherto overlooked the benefits which would result from such an Institution, we hope they will lose no time in lending a helping hand. It is the duty of every person of influence in the locality to do what he can, both by word and deed, to encourage such Institutions as this.

1899 the fishing year

Anstruther. In the East of Fife the staple industry has had a most successful year at all the different fishings. The winter herring fishing yielded 15,775 crans, an increase 10,562 crans over 1898. It. was the best season since 1892, The prices kept up fairly well throughout, although on several occasions they were reduced to 1s and 2s per cran owing to the large quantity landed. One new feature of the fishing which tended to keep up the prices was the curing of the fish for the Russian markets. This was the first year this was attempted, and as the returns were remunerative to the curers, it more than likely the curing of the herring will be resorted to every year. The spring deep sea fishing was also prosecuted with fair measure of success the fishermen, while the “drave”  at the north ports was peculiar in this respect, that exceptionally high prices were realised, and those crews which caught herrings were sure making money. Some of the Cellardyke boats were very successful, having upwards of £600; while none of the fleet were below £100, and the average earning was close on £200. The boats returned from the Scarborough and Lowestoft and Yarmouth fishings on the last week of November, the season having proved to them to be the best record far as the money earned was concerned. The average of the 25 crews engaged was fully £500, and this works out a gross total of £12,000. Assuming that the salesmen’s commission and expenses were £2000, this leaves the large sum of £10,000 having been brought from the south these crews, some of the members of which have received fully £100 per man their share. Never before has such a lot of money been brought back, and the result of it is already seen in the orders that are being given for new boats of about 70 feet m length. The steam liners and trawlers have done fairly well during the year, and have paid dividends ranging from 2 ½ to 10 per cent. Several efforts were made during the year to increase the commercial prosperity of Anstruther and district, while Crail and Elie are increasing yearly prosperity as summer resorts, the other towns between are not so well patronised, and it was thought necessary to something to start public work of some kind. A renewed attempt was afterwards made get the coalfields between Pittenweem and St Monans opened.  A Syndicate of practical and wealthy men made searching inquiry, and offered very favourable terms to the agents of the proprietor. Mr Baird, Elie. So absolutely convinced were they of the large quantity of coal in the district that they offered to test this at their own expense. They were informed, however, that the coalfields were not to be let in the meantime.

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SKETCHES OF FISHER LIFE. 1871

“If you hear the burl cry,

Let you the boat lie

Twa ebbs and a flude,

Be the weather ere so gude,”

said the ancient fathers of Cellardyke, who, long before the days of barometers and storm signals, trusted in the heaven-planted instincts of this well-known sea bird for warning of the approaching tempest, just as the country folks would say of a like ill omen,

“Sea gull, sea gull sit on the sand,

It’s never gude  weather when you’re on the land”

These things, however, are only as traditions of the past to the hardy sons of St Peter of the present day, who, in the altered circumstances of the times, are called upon to face hazards and dangers peculiarly their own. The old grandfathers of the coast, for instance, fished in little tarred yawls, often built and always repaired with their own hands; but, then, they only went to sea with the morning light, and scarcely beyond sight of their own cottage doors. But see how it has changed with their descendants! Now that the last herring shoal has forsaken the shore, the cod fisher must draw his bait supplies from the haddock fishing, and for this purpose he must carry a double set of lines, leaving his home betimes on Monday morning, and not returning again until Friday or Saturday, during which, of course, he inevitably encounters all changes of the weather—now with the sail flapping idly against the mast and the scorching noon-day sun high overhead, and then with the solemn watches of the night broken by the crash of the storm, all hidden in the darkness until only revealed in the lightning flash, which, in the terror of the scenes, seems like a torch leading to death and the grave, It is of such a time as this that Skipper George Moncrieff, of Cellardyke, sings. We give the lines, as showing the noble sentiments glowing in the fisher heart, and which truly smooths a path through the stormiest sea.

When the scud it does fly

Fast over the sky,

And waves they leap high,

It is then we descry

 That God is our guide,

Who o’er the storms preside.

In Him only confide

Whatever betide.

Then let us all try

To raise our faint cry,

Knowing He always is nigh,

Our wants to supply.

In the summer season the deep-sea boats usually steer for the haddock banks, with their long stretch of eight miles of lines, baited at home as in the ordinary periods of that fishing; when, after working their gear, the crew again tighten the sail to the top of the mast and take their course a hundred miles or more to the north-east of the Isle of May, when, selecting the smallest of the haddocks for bait, they cast their great lines, which are also about eight miles in length, and then after perhaps a second or third trial, make for Aberdeen or Montrose, where for the sake of the better market they frequently sell the fish before they return home.

These *‘far seas,” as our fishermen call their long fishing trips, expose them, as will be readily inferred, to great peril from a sudden change in the weather. The old fisher saw the cloud “when no bigger than a man’s hand,” and had time to fly to the shore; but the case is entirely changed when the storm is seen brewing ‘‘a hundred miles at sea,” for then, of course, it must be braved in all its fury long before a friendly harbour can be reached. This was eminently the case last week with the boats overtaken in the storm. Sea and sky only met the weary eye as it swept round and round the distant horizon, and so with the heavens blackening with the tempest cloud, the curtain of night fell on the dark and cheerless prospect as our fishers reefed their sail and prepared to fly from the approaching storm. The canvas was reduced to less than a third of its ordinary size, and yet driving before the blast the boat dashed through foam and spray like a wild beast to its lair, while the resounding air was filled with the wail of the tempest and the fierce turmoil of the waves ; and so the brave fisher watched and toiled at their posts as men working between death and life, hoping and praying for the morning light as for some blessed messenger that was to bring safety and deliverance.

The long weary hours—counted again and again —flew tardily by, but the dawn came at last, though the red morning light brought little of cheer or comfort to the poor tempest-caught mariners ; indeed, it was rather otherwise, it only lifted the veil from the face of the storm, and presented the terrific scene in all its sublime but appalling reality. Lashed by the gathering tempest, the billows in vast mountain-like ridges were wheeling and shooting like white-plumed warriors spurring to battle, and whose resistless sweep it seemed only destruction and death to oppose. “We wearied for daylight, but when it came we rather it had not,” said an old fisher, in allusion to the awful perils with which he saw himself encompassed. But still guided with consummate skill and courage the little craft sped through the storm, each gallant crew forgetting their own danger in what seemed to be the yet greater hazard of their neighbour, as in quick succession their boat would now rise high on the crest of some giant wave, and then, with half her keel bare to the eye, would plunge headlong into the trough beyond, in which mast and sail would also disappear, until the next heave of the sure would make the heart quiver as before. How beautiful are the words of the Psalmist concerning the tempest-tossed mariner— “They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters, these see the works of the Lord and His wonders in the deep. For He commandeth and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof. They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depth, their soul is melted because of trouble.”

Truly many a thrilling adventure, many a hairbreadth escape, is experienced by our fishermen; often, indeed, do they stand face to face with the risky king of terrors, when help only is with the God of the battle and the storm. Here is an example from the late storm. On Wednesday morning Skipper Robert Cunningham was sitting in the ‘bunk,’ or cabin of his boat, the “Solace,” s0 appropriately named from her substantial and comfortable build, taking some needful rest after remaining for fifteen long and weary hours at the helm, when all on a sudden the boat was struck with a tremendous sea that came on the deck like the crash of a battering ram, and under which, as a hunted thing struck with a deadly blow, she staggered and reeled, and then fell over with a violent lurch as if about to sink to the bottom. A torrent of sea-water poured into the cabin, that shut out the dim and sickly light, and with it, seemingly, the last hope of life. At such a moment men often faint, or become frantic with fear, but this brave skipper only thought of the loved and loving ones at home, and in his heart bade them all farewell, “We are lost—l will die here,” he said to himself, and sat still, knowing how vain it would be there to raise a drowning cry, when none was near to pity or to save. As if by a miracle, however, the boat again righted, and the poor mariners were saved. Surely “Man’s extremity is God’s opportunity. Then they cry unto the Lord and He bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Then are they glad because they be quiet – so he bringeth them into their desired haven.”

Some crews had no less providential deliverances. One of the most experienced fishermen of the coast —Skipper James Smith- describes the gale as “the severest he ever encountered but, as it often happens, other boats made the voyage without an untoward incident of danger—these being s0 fortunate as to avoid those bursting waves which are so peculiarly the dread and terror of all mariners.

At these times the recent improvement of decking the deep-sea boats is, of course, seen to be of the most essential value. Before their introduction the sea that now washes comparatively harmless from gunwale to gunwale would have filled the boat and perhaps have sunk her to the bottom. Thus it was that in sailing their open boats it was the familiar work of the crew to take their station at the pumps, or with long scoops, s0 as to be ready to throw out the water in the event of some crested wave or “unlucky flip”—to use a pithy fisher phrase—rolling on board. This danger, as can be readily conceived, was peculiarly great after night-fall. Here is the experience of an old fisher: —”I remember,” said he, “of being once caught in a gale near the Bell Rock. It was a dark night, and every eye was strained watching betimes the heavy sea, whose white tops were the only relief to the dismal scene —all else being as dark as the grave. The gale increased to a hurricane, and the waves, as it did so, leaped higher and higher, so that the sheet could not be left for an instant. I was standing on the main thwart when I heard our skipper cry, “Men, look out,” and next instant I saw a giant wave rise high over the gunwale. I felt my heart stop within me as I heard it roaring like a savage beast towards me. I found myself in its cold and remorseless embrace which dragged me helpless as a child from my place, and hurried me along I knew not whither. A strange and awful feeling came over me. I felt myself in the very jaws of death. I have always since thought as if that beautiful text had been written only for me—”The waters compassed me about even to the soul; the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head.” I dared not think of life, when, with the waters still ringing in my ears, I found myseelf dashed against the forward part of the boat, when, though stunned and almost senseless, I heard one of the crew as a voice from the dead cry out,

“Courage, boys, she is rising yet, we are safe.” Such are the perils and hardships encountered by the hardy fisher while reaping the “harvest of the sea,” gathering in the inexhaustible treasures which so materially enrich our shores and increase the food supplies of the millions of our people—of the brave class who so largely add to the prosperity and wealth of the empire in days of peace, and who, when the beacon fire flickers on the hill in the hour of the battle and the storm, will, as in the times of the past, prove the strength and glory of the brave old land in manning her war-ships and driving the boasting invader from her seas, and who yet, of all our industrial orders, are strangely enough the most neglected, if not despised, but yet, nevertheless, who are distinguished by a fuller share of the true Scottish virtues of self-reliance, industry, and love of fair dealing than any such class in the country.

I was honoured to take a trip to Kings Lynn to pay respect at the memorial service for the event known as the Beautiful Star Disaster which occurred in 1875. Three St Monans boats, the Beautiful Star, Thane and Quest, and two Cellardyke boats the Vigilant and Janet Anderson were lost in a storm while heading home from Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

The Beautiful Star was found semi-submerged off Kings Lynn and towed in, 5 members of the crew were discovered drowned in the cabin, blocked in by a broken mast.

The town of Kings Lynn was so affected that they planned a public funeral which was attended by hundreds of fisherfolk, sailors and Good Templars, this happened on 3rd Dec 1875. Two days later 3 men were burried in the same plot having been discovered with the wreackage of the Thane – no other bodies were found. In 1876 the town raised further monies and placed a memorial stone in Hardwick Road Cemetery ,shaped like the Beautiful Star.

The ceremony on the 4th Dec 2025 was to mark the 150th anniversary.

At the church Sevice, attended by the Mayor and leader of the County Council as well as other local representation I read the names of the Cellardyke Fishermen lost. This was held in the medieval St Nicholas’s Chapel which had hosted the original funerals. A muffled bell was rung after each of the names was read out. Mary Henderson of St Monans read out the names of those lost from there. We then went to the cemetery where a wreath laying service was held. I laid a wreath on behalf of the Community of Cellardyke.

The community of St Monans has raised money and commissioned a Memorial Garden which opened in November 2025, commemorating all the losses from this the East Neuk’s biggest fishing disaster. This was opened by the Earl of Crawford and Balcarres after a moving church service, in the Braehead Kirk, name reading and bell ringing at the harbour.

Bill Bruce of Different Video’s excellent film commissioned to commemorate the event

https://fb.watch/DRC-MQncDL/

Cellardyke Trust organised our memorial walk to commemorate this on National Fishing Remembrance day, in May. This event in Kings Lynn rounded off the year’s memorials

Trues Yard Museum in Kings Lynn have an excellent temporary display on the disaster, the nameboards, flags and mast created for our walk are now part of that display

Richard Wemyss

Cellardyke

JANET ANDERSON KY. 1176                        Crew of seven

James Murray, owner & skipper               (26) Single

Andrew Stewart                                              (34) Left a widow with 4 children

William Bridges                                                (22) Left a widow and 1 child

James Walker                                                   (37) Left a widow and 4 children

Alexander Lothian                                          (54) Left a widow and 4 children

Hugh McKay                                                      (?)Single

William McKay                                                  (?)Single

VIGILANT KY. 1214                                           Crew of six

Robert Stewart, owner & skipper            (42) Left a widow and 4 children

William Stewart                                               (46) Left a widow and 1 child

James McRuvie                                               (45) Left a widow and 3 children

James McRuvie,                                               (16) son of above Age 16

Alexander Doig                                                (32) Left a widow and 6 children

Leslie Brown                                                     (19) Single

St Monans

BEAUTIFUL STAR KY.1298                           Crew of 7

James Paterson, skipper and owner      (49) left a widow and 5 children

Robert Paterson,                                             (16) son of owner, single

William Paterson                                              (39) brother of James, left a widow and 5 children

Robert Paterson,                                             (18) son of William, single

David Allan,                                                        (48) shoemaker by trade, left a widow and 6 children

James Allan,                                                      (18) nephew of James Paterson single

David Davidson,                                               (28) single, not related

THANE KY.1071                                                 Crew of 7

Thomas Fyall,  Skipper & part owner      Left a widow and 2 children

David Lowrie, Joint owner                          Left a widow and 5 children

Lawrence Fyall                                                 Brother of skipper, single,

Thomas Fyall                                                     Left a widow and one child

Thomas Lowrie,                                               Brother of David married only three months

Andrew Allan                                                    Single

Alexander Duncan                                          Left a widow and 3 children

QUEST KY.221

David Allan, skipper & owner                    Left a widow and 6 children

William Allan,                                                    brother of skipper Left a widow and 5 children

Robert Allan,                                                     son of David, single

Alexander Irvine                                              Left a widow and 7 children

Alexander Hutt                                                Single

Alexander Latto                                               Single

David Eason                                                       Single                  

Three other fishermen were lost from Cellardyke boats in the same season or storm

Alexander McRuvie – 1875 – from the Excelsior

John Watson (31) Unmarried– 1875 from George Anderson’s boat

James Gardner (47) from the boat WILLIAMS – Oct 21st,

THE CELLARDYKE ECHO

1890

FAITH MISSION MEETINGS —From advertisement it will be seen that the Faith Mission are to hold a gospel meeting in Anstruther Town Hall on Sunday evening, and special meeting for Christians in Cellardyke Town Hall each night beginning on Monday up to and including Friday night.

DAMAGE TO A CELLARDYKE BOAT.—On Monday while the Cellardyke boat “New Kate,” K.Y.234, was on her way from Yarmouth to Anstruther, she was struck by a heavy squall about two miles off Whitby. The mizzen mast was carried away nearly three feet from the deck. The damage sustained was £2, but is covered by insurance. The mast had been only three mouths in the boat.

1892

BURGH COURT.—At the bar of East Anstruther Court on Friday—all the Magistrates on the bench —Thomas Anderson, fisherman, Cellardyke, was charged with striking P.C. Wright on the preceding Saturday night. He pled guilty, and after a few remarks by the Fiscal, and a pointed warning by Provost Anderson, accused was fined 10s 6d. Mrs Murray (Blyth), Cellardyke, was charged with assaulting her sister, Mrs Graham (Blyth), in the house of the latter, by catching her by the hair of the head and dragging her across the room and passage. Mrs Murray pled not guilty, and evidence was led. Mrs Graham detailed the circumstances of the assault, and added that a handful of hair which was pulled out had unfortunately been left at home. James, a son of Mrs Graham’s, corroborated, and P.C. Wright deponed to seeing the hair which had been hauled out; but Mrs James Wallace, a neighbour, who was also examined, had seen nothing although she heard a noise. The charge was held as proven. Accused finally admitted her guilt, and was fined 7s 6d. Both fines were paid.

Debating Society

A number of young men between 15 and 18 years of age, have formed themselves into a Debating Society for Cellardyke, and are to meet in one of the class-rooms of Forth Street Hall every Tuesday evening. The officials elected are: —Hon. President—Provost Martin; President—D. Boyter; secretary—W. Bayne; treasurer—J. Bruce: and editor of MSS. magazine—Andrew Dick.

The other day one of our correspondents observed in a shop in Cellardyke a most striking freak of nature. This was Swedish turnip of stunted growth which had grown through the neck of a bottle and shaped like a fowl deprived of wings. The head was nearly complete. There was a beak, and the under part resembled plump chicken when plucked.

1893

Yesterday, a new barometer was fitted up at the harbour of Cellardyke. The barometer was sent by the Fishery Board to replace the old one, which has been out of repair for some time.

WANTED, A Good Second-hand SPRING CART, suitable fora Pony 15 Hands. Must be Strong and in Good Order. Apply JOHN MARTIN & Co., Cellardyke.

1894

The Cellardyke Fishermen’s Union and Benefit Society have at their credit funds to the amount of £1431, and a membership of 200.

On Monday evening, a public meeting the fishermen under the auspices of the local branch of Scotland Fishermen’s Association was held in the Reading Room. About a hundred were present. when Mr Martin Gardiner was called to the chair. For a long time the non members of the branch were at a loss to know why they had been invited to – discuss what appeared to them to the Association business. Mr Alex. Gardiner argued that he had no right to speak upon any subject which might come up. Mr Alex. Wood said he supposed the meeting was to appoint a delegate to the Aberdeen conference, but unless an appeal was made to the community to pay the expenses they had no say in the matter. The discussion might have lasted for hours, but at length Mr Carstairs cleared up the issue,. He explained that in March a branch of the East Coast Fishermen’s Association was formed to Cellardyke when 85 joined. A meeting had been held on Saturday night when a circular was read from Mr Macnaughton, Buckie, inviting the fishermen of Cellardyke to send a delegate to a conference of Scottish fishermen on the 22nd December in Aberdeen. The Association’s central meetings were held in Edinburgh, but this conference was independent of it. …….. Such grievances as Sunday trawling, barrell bulk, &c., could then be redressed. The Chairman said the meeting was unanimous in agreeing to send a delegate. As an instance of the lack of union he mentioned a petition signed by 400 Cellardyke men and other 2000 Scottish fishermen which was forwarded to the Fishery Board last year, and never looked at…….

At a meeting last week of Cellardyke fishermen it was considered that the close time of the herring fishing should extend from the end of April till the 10th of July. A complaint was made that Fife fishermen are being forced to compete with trawlers on Sunday or lose their situations.

Capture of a Shark. A shark measuring 15 feet m length was landed at Aberdeen Fish Market Saturday morning the steam trawler Faith. It was purchased by Mr Walker, junior, and cut up for manurial purposes. (Faith KY 443 was the only Cellardyke Steam Trawler Owned by Stephen Williamson and skippered by Michael Doig it never landed in the East Neuk as trawling was not supported here.)

On Sunday considerable stir was created at the harbour by the arrival of a Shields steam liner with flags flying. She came to Anstruther for the crew, who belong to Cellardyke, and whose captain is Skipper David Parker, to take their gear on board. During her stay in the harbour her appearance was contrasted with the other local vessels, and a good number of people were shown over her. She sailed on Tuesday for Shields, but in turning in the new harbour she sustained alight damage to her stem by striking the pier. ( This was the Bernicia SN 199, built in Leith, lost in Feb 1900 with all her Cellardyke crew and two shields men of the black squad, engineer and fireman)

Anstruther Harbour board ……..some of the town’s people got up a company to build some steam liners (not trawlers). They were built of wood at Anstruther and engined et Leith, and they have happily been quite successful. But they draw 9 feet to 9 feet 6 inches aft. They could not be modelled to contend with the heavy weather on that coast unless they had a good hold of the water, and they could not be built of iron or steel because of the rocky bottom of the harbour. Moreover, you will see they draw about 2 feet 6 inches more than the sail boats, and this is the most serious consideration. The skippers are afraid to risk taking the ground in the harbour bad weather. There are also other risks involved arising from the shallow water near the entrance as well as the chance of being neaped, as sometimes happens. In consequence these steam liners which have been entirely successful frequently run to Shields, Aberdeen, or to Granton to sell their takes of fish. There are seven excellent steam liners belonging to the place which have cost about £17,000. One of them I may month, strained soon after she was built by the uneven and rocky bottom of the harbour, and the town’s people are afraid to venture further so long as the harbour remains In its present unsatisfactory condition. There is a liner now ready to be launched. I have tried to encourage one or other of the existing Steam Liner Companies to buy her, and add her to’ their fleet—but they are afraid ………  prosperity would go down if the harbour was not deepened. Mr Cunningham said as an instance of that new liner came in that lay to Anstruther, and took away a crew, from Cellardyke to fish at Shields He understood some of the owners would scarcely allow them to come inside the harbour to take their gear on board, because they were so much against the harbour, on account of its shallowness….

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

1885

ESTABLISHMENT. THOMAS SWTNTON, BAKER, CELLARDYKE, respectfully informs the Public of that place and District, that he has now Opened that Shop, 25 Shore Street, Cellardyke, so long tenanted by Mr Alex. Donaldson, where he intends to carry on the Business of a BAKER in all its various branches. T. S. trusts that, by bestowing careful attention on his business, and selling Goods of the finest quality, he may receive a share of public support.

1886

HERRINGS FOR SALE. FINE RED HERRINGS. at 2s per Box. Gutted Do., 4s per Kit. First class quality at R. Melville’s, 37 John Street, Cellardyke.

ACCIDENT TO A YOUNG LAD.—On Friday forenoon last week, while Thomas Melville, son of Councillor Melville, Cellardyke, was engaged driving herring from the station to Cellardyke, he met with an accident. He had stopped opposite the Buckle House corner in West Anstruther, and was about to jump off the cart, his right foot being on the wheel, when the horse started again. His foot, at the moment the cart moved, slipped between the wheel and the side, the consequence being that he was borne to the ground while a severe twist was given to his foot. On being conveyed home he was attended by Dr Thomson, who found that the small bone of the leg had been broken.

RETURN OF THE BOATS FROM THE SOUTH. Fully 40 of the Cellardyke boats which have been engaged at the fishing in England have arrived at Anstruther this week. The first to put in an appearance was the ” Summer Breeze,” at two o clock on Sunday afternoon. By the next tide a good number followed, and every day since there have been a few arrivals. About 30 boats are still to come. The fishing in the south as been anything but a success, and in the case of a good number of the crews it will take them all their time to cover expenses. Only one Cellardyke boat is mentioned as having £200 for her catch, and a few with about £150. But the majority unfortunately have only about £80, while more than one crew have come back with not more than a last of herrings to their credit. The average fishing for the district, taking in Pittenweem and St Monance with Cellardyke, is set down at £85. Some of the crews have suffered heavily in the destruction of their gear. There was a good fishing at Lowestoft on Tuesday, the herrings selling from £11 to £16 a last. One Cellardyke boat is said to have landed 11 lasts at £7 the last. The great line fishing is now likely to be prosecuted until the commencement of the winter herring fishing in January.

SIGHT SINGING. —I t will be seen that Mr Brechin the well-known teacher of sight singing will open a class for instruction in the Public School, Cellardyke, on the evening of Tuesday first. It is to be hoped the lessons will be largely taken advantage of.

At the Burgh Court of Cellardyke on Tuesday before Provost Martin and Bailie Sharp, William Addison, butcher, was charged with assault in so far that he struck John Herd Jun., on the face to the effusion of blood in or near Robert Wood’s shop on Martinmas night. He admitted the charge, but pleaded very great provocation. The fiscal, Mr Peebles, however, declined the plea. On its being withdrawn by the panel, he was convicted and fined in 12s 6d. Two fisher boys, about eleven years of age, James Pattersen Wallace and William Smith, pleaded guilty to stealing a turnip from Mr Key’s holding of South Kirkgate Park. After a pointed reprimand they were each fined in half a crown. Elizabeth Cunningham, aged 14, Margaret Tarvit 13, with the brothers George and Robert Wood, about the same age, were accused of taking potatoes from one of the fields tenanted by Mr George Clarke. Rennyhill. The field, it seems, was harrowed but not gathered when Mr Clarke rode upon the scene. The brothers emptied their bag; but the girls escaped with their booty till it was seized by Police Constable White. They were each fined, after a pointed warning, in ,1s 6d

1887

SUDDEN DEATH ON BOARD THE NORTH CARR LIGHTSHIP…A painful sensation was experienced on the Fife coast on Sabbath, by the announcement that Alexander Watson, the mate of the North Carr Lightship, and so well known as the Isle of May boatman, had suddenly expired that morning on board the vessel. He had performed the last sad offices at the head of hie father’s grave in Kilrenny churchyard on Friday fortnight, and resumed his duties on board the lightship as soon as the storm abated in the course of the following week. He was at this time the picture of health and strength—indeed on the last evening of his life be hailed the St Andrews schooner “Enterprise” with a voice as ringing as a trumpet. About 3 a.m. he was seized with a strange dizziness, “I’m like to faint” he told his watch, and staggered below to sink into a state of unconsciousness as one already in the embrace of death. The skiff was at once put off for the doctor, but the errand was in vain, the last sign of life having flitted several minutes before five. It only remained for the sorrowing friends to land the corpse at Fife Ness, and on the procession arriving in the forenoon at Crail no little sympathy was evinced as it passed to the house of mourning at the shore, where the distress of the widow and the eight fatherless children may be easier imagined than described. Alexander Watson was 48 years of age. In his younger days he shared the fortunes of his father as a fisherman at Dunbar, Aberlady, and Sunderland, till be settled with the family at Cellardyke about eighteen years ago. He was the skipper of his own splendid new boat the Favourite, which was burnt to the water’s edge at Yarmouth, a week or two before that too memorable gale on Black Friday, the 17th November 1875. He was so disheartened by this misfortune that he left net and line to accept the situation of Isle of May boatman at Crail, when he has since been so esteemed for his faithfulness and energy as well as for his true sailor like courtesy to the many tourists visiting the island. From his youth up, he was the first to spring to theory of danger, and so was known far and near as the hero of many a gallant exploit. This was notably the case at the wreck of the Welsh schooner Savant below the cliffs at Crail, in the gale of the 7th February 1883. Again and again in those moments of fearful suspense he, with the life line round hie waist, clambered hand over hand through the boiling surf to reach two of the crew who were so benumbed, if not paralysed with terror, as to be unable to make an effort for their own deliverance on the deck of the vessel fast going to pieces, and so were only saved by clinging to the neck of the hero, while every echo rang with the cheers of the excited spectator.. He was one of the three publicly presented with a medal in the Town Hall on Saturday the 14th April following, in recognition of their gallantry, but there is only too much reason to believe that it was the extraordinary exertion that sowed the seed of the malady which so fatally terminated on Sunday. He was preferred as first mate on board the Lightship for his recognised devotion to duty; and as a mark of the esteem and regard in which he was so universally held by the neighbours, he was elected in the municipal contest of last year to a seat at the Council.

In those days when masterful begging seems to be on the increase, the display of spirit exhibited by a good wife of Cellardyke deserves to be commended. The incident was connected not with begging but rather with attempted theft. While working at the back door the matron in question heard someone moving about in the house, and thinking it would be some friend she went upstairs. When she reached the room what was her astonishment to find a couple of tramps busily engaged ransacking her drawers! Opening fire at once she demanded what they were doing there. “Only seeking for a copper, mistress ” they replied. Shutting the door the guidwife ordered them to turn out their pockets and disburse what they had pilfered. This they meekly did, and assistance arriving, the crestfallen “looters ” were helped downstairs with somewhat less ceremony than force.

On Wednesday morning a telegram was received from Yarmouth by the Rev Mr Ray, asking him to convey the said intelligence to the family of Mr James Brunton, James Street, Cellardyke, that he had been drowned the previous night at Gorleston. It appears that deceased was last seen alive on Tuesday night at eleven, and it is supposed that while going on board his boat he fell into the water. He was picked up at ten o’clock on Wednesday morning. He had not been long in the water, probably not more than three or four hours. A purse, containing 4s 6d, was found on him. An inquiry was held on his body at Gorleston on Wednesday afternoon, and a verdict returned of found drowned. Two of his friends left Anstruther on Wednesday by rail in order to bring home the remains in the boat should the weather prove favourable. Brunton who was one of the best fishermen in Cellardyke, was about 50 years of age, and has left a widow and six of a family, for whom much sympathy has been expressed.

Sudden Death. —An of the of life occurred in Cellardyke yesterday the death Christian Cunningham, the wife of John Dickson, mariner. She appears to have been busy in some little household duty after breakfast, but, be this as it may, her mother was only absent for a few minutes to return to find her lifeless on the floor. Mrs Dickson, who is survived her husband and only child, was about thirty years of age, was greatly beloved in her own circle. In the opinion of the doctor, the cause of death was disease of the heart.

1888

Return from Norfolk coast

…It is now five-and-twenty years since the pioneer boat sailed for Yarmouth. From time to time this success has been encouraging that Cellardyke skippers have fished to £750, but this is by far the poorest season the record consequence the fitful and tempestuous weather. The few you may count your fingers have couple of £100. Many, or rather most, have to £90, but we know of those who have had their own share of the toils and perils one of the most trying seasons in the annals of Norfolk for £6 or £7, that in view of the disappointments of the past there is only too much cause for the uneasiness to-day in many a fisher home. There was a renewal of the westerly gale on Thursday. The storm rack flitted across the sky in such way as to inspire the veteran with end misgiving, and all the more so the restless condition of the weather glass. According to telegrams, the fleet, with few exceptions, was under weigh, that if not battling with the tempest the boats were lying windbound in this or that anchorage between Winterton and St. Abbs. Several sailed from the Tees early the morning, but were glad to fly for shelter into the Tyne, &c. This will appear from the fact that on Thursday afternoon only five boats had arrived at Monance, and about the same number at Anstruther, though it will be. recollected that about 140 boats were fishing this Autumn on the coast of Norfolk. ( nb the quickest passage recorded home to this point was 32 hours, the vessels were towed over the sand bar to start their journey home)

During the gale of Tuesday night, the Banff fishing boat ” Gratitude,” 8F.928, Skipper Bruce, when on her homeward passage from the south, was caught in the gale, and it was decided to run back to Anstruther for shelter. Just at the height of it the boat made an attempt to enter the harbour, but as it was seen she would not sail in she was stayed, and on making the second attempt to enter she struck the outside pier with considerable force, doing damage to her stem and starting the bow planking. Afterwards the boat was got into the harbour, where she drifted down on the East pier, and was in great danger of being further damaged by the heavy wind and sea, which were at that time coming over the east wall in great volumes. As soon as the danger of the boat was known the fishermen of Cellardyke turned out in numbers and rendered valuable assistance under the direction of Capt. Lyall, the harbourmaster, who was at his post during the whole time. With great difficulty the boat was got into the inner harbour, when the crew expressed their thanks for the assistance rendered in getting them out of their dangerous position.

1889

…As an illustration of the low price of herrings in the south, we may state that one Cellardyke boat, the Lady of the Lake, has fished 31 lasts or over four hundred crans for less than £150. The other day nine waggons with about 380 crans were railed to Anstruther. They are destined for ” reds” or ham-cured herrings. With regard to the quality, it is enough to say that one merchant observed, “I never had finer in my kiln.” Consignments are also to hand from Lochfyne, but so small as to be little if any bargain at 3s a box. A private letter says that the Fife boats put to sea on Tuesday to return with 2 to 5 lasts, but the price was very low in consequence of the want of salt, over which there was a general outcry against the Union. The boat Aurora, of Cellardyke, was about to sail for the north in consequence of loss of nets.

James Thomson, fishcadger, and James Robertson, fisher, Anstruther, were accused before the magistrates of Cellardyke on Friday with a contravention of the Lindsey Act, in so far as they piled a heap of seaware in James Street, and so obstructed the thoroughfare on the last day of October. They pleaded guilty, and as a warning to others, were fined 5s each, or 7 days in jail.

A meeting of Kilrenny Councillors was held on Tuesday evening. It was agreed to order 30 tons of metal from Newburgh for Cellardyke streets and 40 tons for Kilrenny roads, and inquire as to the cost per yard for causewaying the East end of Cellardyke. The streets at this part were much destroyed by the traction engines pulling the boats, and it was agreed to consult the Act and see if the proprietor could not charged.

At a Burgh Court at Anstruther yesterday—before Provost Darsie, Ballies Lumsden and Morton, two young fishermen from Cellardyke, named Robert Muir and Leslie Henderson, were charged with having on the 21st instant, in Shore Street, Anstruther, created a breach of the pesos by swearing and fighting with each other. A previous conviction was recorded against Muir on 21st January this year. Both pled guilty. The Fiscal said it was one of these drunken brawls they were so often annoyed with. The Provost admonished Muir, and said he had better take care he was not brought up a third time or else it would be very serious for him. He was sorry to see two young men come before them on this charge. Muir was fined 15s and Henderson 10s, or seven days’ imprisonment.

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1880

The handsome block of houses built by Mr Thomas Brown in James Street, just opposite the property of the late Treasurer Davidson, have now been all sold. The houses are of two storeys with attics, and are fitted up so as to give every passible convenience. Mr James Pratt is the proprietor of the outmost house, Mr Alex. Thomson (Pratt) of the centre one, and Mr Alex. Birrell of the westmost. The price of each has been somewhere about £400 Treasurer Brown has, we hear, taken other feus in Rodger Street, where he has already built nine houses, all sold and occupied.

THE NEW ESTABLISHED CHURCH AT CELLARDYKE. This church, which has been in course of erection for a considerable time, is now rapidly approaching completion, and will, it is expected, be ready for public worship towards the end of the year.

1881

Return of the Fife Boats from Yarmouth.— The season being over, the boats are now returning home from Yarmouth and Lowestoft. The first arrival was at Pittenweem on Wednesday night, but in the course of a day or two the others fast followed up. There were a hundred boats from the East of Fife, and their success, it is pleasant to observe, far exceeds any doings in the past. Comparatively few are below £200. Many range from £300 to £400, and even £500; while in the case of the Cellardyke boat Confidence, John Pratt, master the success is all but £670.

WRECK OF A CELLARDYKE FISHING BOAT. A telegram was received at Berwick this morning stating that the fishing boat K.Y. 1665, of Cellardyke, had gone ashore at Boulmer, the Northumberland coast, and become a total wreck. The crew of seven were rescued by three fishermen in a coble. The fishing boat was returning home from the herring fishing at Yarmouth. (Some papers have a variance of the registration number, but the vessel was definitely the Useful, Thomas Boyter skipper, in 1889 a Useful was registered KY1666, this may be her as the insurers had the Eyemouth boatbuilders look at the wreck to see if she was repairable) The St Monans boat James Innes is also a total loss, while the crew saved nothing but the clothes they stood in. Both crews reached home on Tuesday night, and all speak in the warmest praise of the kindness and sympathy shown to them by the fishermen of Northumberland. The boats are fortunately insured in the Fraserburgh Club. the one for £200 and the other for £150.

Return of the Boats.— By yesterday afternoon, with the exception of eight or nine windbound on the Yorkshire coast, the East of Fife boats had returned from the Yarmouth fishing. They have had splendid luck, the earnings of the hundred crews or so being estimated at an average of nothing less than £300. which would give the magnificent whole of £30 000. The crowning success is in the case of the Cellardyke boat Confidence, John Pratt master, who has naked the hitherto unapproached figure of £710.

DEATH OF A LEADING NATIVE OF CELLARDYKE. —No little surprise and regret was excited in a wide circle here that David Fowler, Esquire, the leading firm of Messrs Fowler, general merchants, Adelaide, had died suddenly at his villa in Norwood, near London.

BARGAINS. BARGAINS. BARGAINS. SHARP & MURRAY, CELLARDYKE, BEG to intimate that they will offer their whole stock of DRAPERY GOODS at reduced prices.  Sale to commence at once, and continue for a few weeks. Cellardyke, 24th Nov. 1881.

1883

THE INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES EXHIBITION. —This great exhibition was formally closed on Wednesday by the Prince of Wales, the ceremony being grand and imposing. A correspondent informs us that the Royal dais was again decorated with a number of articles from the collections of Messrs Sharp & Murray! Cellardyke, who have been successful in obtaining prizes for all their exhibits. We understand that the United States Executive Committee have purchased from Messrs Sharp & Murray twelve articles from their collections, to be deposited in the Museum at Washington. As this museum is the largest in the world, it will be gratifying to our readers to learn that the staple trade et this district is to be so well represented there.

THE FISH RATES OF RAILWAY COMPANIES. The last of the practical fishermen’s congresses was held in the International Fisheries Exhibition on Saturday. Mr E. Birkbeck, M. P., presided, and the Duke of Edinburgh was present during a portion of the proceedings. The first subject to be discussed, he said, was that of the railway rates charged for the carriage of fish. All they asked from the railways was simply fair play and justice, and he believed if rates were reduced the railways themselves would greatly benefit. Mr Murray of Messrs Sharp & Murray, Cellardyke, moved ” That this conference, having heard the disastrous and destructive effect on the fishing industries of the United Kingdom through the excessively high charges on the Railway Companies, which prohibit the distribution of good, wholesome fish throughout the country at a cost within the reach of the poorer classes, are unanimously of opinion that some pressure should be brought to bear on the Railway Commissioners in the matter, and that Mr Birkbeck, M.P., be requested to forward this resolution to the Railway Commissioners.” (Cheers.) Mr J. Saunders, Brixham, seconded the resolution, which was adopted unanimously.

…………. a barrel of herrings was carried from the east coast of Scotland to Germany for from 2s. to 2s. 3d. while it could not be delivered in London for less than 12s. A resolution, moved by Mr D. Murray, Cellardyke, to the effect that pressure should be brought to bear on the railway companies through the Railway Commissioners, with the view of getting the rates modified, was unanimously carried, and the chairman was requested to undertake its transmission to the proper quarter. The Exhibition was formally closed on Wednesday. It has been visited by nearly 2 700 000 persons.

THE BOAT COLLISION CASE, ln the appeal in the action at the instance of James Rankin, fisherman, Peterhead, against Peter Murray, fisherman, Cellardyke, in which the pursuer sought to recover £350 as damages for the loss of his boat through a collision with the defender’s boat, decision has been given by Sheriff Guthrie Smith…… the Sheriff Principal confirms the judgment of his Substitute. “Safety is only to obtained by the uniform and exact observance of the rules prescribed, and greatly as one must sympathise with the pursuer in the very heavy and ruinous loss which sustained, I can see. no grounds for holding anybody but himself blame.”

Earnings of Cellardyke Boats in the South.—Sixty Cellardyke boats have been engaged at the herring fishing at Yarmouth and Lowestoft during the past two months, and these have now all returned to Anstruther. The enterprise has been fairly successful, the highest sum realised by one crew, Skipper James Martin, being £460, while the average will be about £250, giving a total of about £15,900 as the gross amount earned. The expenses, from £30 to £40 per boat fall to be deducted from that sum. Large quantities of herrings from Yarmouth have arrived here per rail and ship, and are being converted into “reds.”

1884

A Seventh Conviction. —At the Bailie Court of East Anstruther on Monday, George Mitchell, a stripling belonging to Cellardyke, was charged with breach of the peace by unseemly language and riotous conduct, especially in wanting to fight with a young sailmaker, Alex. Jamieson, who came between him and his horse play towards an old navvy near the Royal Hotel on the last Saturday night in October. No fewer than 6 convictions for a like offence, or assault, were recorded against him in the course of the last three years. He threw himself on the leniency of the Court; but in respect of habit and repute, he was fined in 20s, or the option of 14 days in jail. He was also, as craved by the Fiscal, bound over to keep the peace for 6 months, under a penalty of £5, or, in default, to another 40 days. Neither fine or security being forthcoming, he was removed in irons by the first train to his old quarters in Cupar.

CELLARDYKE FISHING BOATS IN A GALE. Evidence of stormy weather continues to be received at Shields. About twenty-four fishing boats, belonging to Cellardyke, Scotland, which have been engaged fishing off Yarmouth for the past eight weeks, and which were returning home, were overtaken by the gale and obliged to run to the Tyne for refuge. Among them are the Maggie Brown, New Kate. Georgina, and Confidence, the crews of which state that it is considerable time since they experienced such heavy weather and high seas broke aboard the vessels, and it was almost miraculous that no serious casualty occurred, although they suffered severely. The smacks are moored in Albert Edward Dock.

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1905

FISHERMAN DROWNED AT YARMOUTH. —A feeling of gloom was cast over the community on Saturday, when the sad intelligence was received of the drowning if Robert Stewart, (21), off Yarmouth. Stewart sailed with his father, Skipper John Stewart, who, with a Cellardyke crew is at present carrying the steam drifter Rambler, of North Shields. While the Rambler was returning to Yarmouth from the fishing grounds on Saturday morning, and when about one mile from the Corton Lightship, and five miles from Yarmouth, a sea washed over her and swept Stewart who, with the rest of the crew, was engaged forward, overboard. The vessel was at once put about, but before any help could be rendered Stewart had disappeared. The skipper cruised about for a while, but eventually he had to leave the spot and proceed to Yarmouth. Much sympathy has been extended to the parents of deceased, who was much respected by his friends and acquaintances.

WRECKAGE IN THE FORTH. The Fishery Brenda landed at Granton yesterday quantity of wreckage which was picked up at the mouth of the Forth on Saturday. The master of the Brenda states that he across a mast stacking out of the water about  1 ¼ miles south of the North Carr Lightship, apparently attached  to a sunken wreck. After several attempts the wreckage came away, and was found to consist of two masts, a crutch, blocks, and gear belonging to large fishing boat, lying at a depth of 26 feet water. It is believed that, this the wreckage of the Cellardyke fishing vessel sunk in collision with H.M.S. Speedwell during last spring.

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

1906

The Late Mr John Carstairs, Much sympathy has been expressed with Mr Charles Carstairs, his father, and the family, at the death of Mr John Carstairs, which occurred in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary on Tuesday morning. Mr Cairstairs, a number of weeks ago, went over to the Infirmary, only to be told that there was no cure for the internal disease from which he was suffering, but he lingered on till Tuesday, being cheered by the frequent visits of his family and friends. Mr Carstairs was a well-known member of the community, and all along took a prominent part in the formation and conducting of the Fishermen’s Union and Benefit Society. His keen intelligence and debating ability were very observable in many public movements in the community connected with the interests of fishermen and otherwise. In fact his strong liking for argument upon different questions rather detracted from his popularity among his own class, but he was able to hold his own and to express his opinions clearly and forcibly. For several years back he has been one of the representatives of Cellardyke on the Harbour Commission, and was a very attentive member, being present when he was at home. He always allowed a keen interest the harbour question, and was always able to voice the views of the fishermen. In Church matters be belonged to the United Frees, and took a great interest in the Chalmers Church, Anstruther, while in Sunday School work in Cellardyke he was for many years one of the teachers in the Forth Street Hall. He had reached the age of 63, and has left a widow and six of a family all grown up, all of whom very deeply mourn his loss.

Presentation – Mr David Guillan, late of Cellardyke, and who has recently been employed in Camperdown Jute Works, Lochee, was on Monday night made the recipient of a few expressions of good will, on the occasion of his leaving the above employment to take up similar work in the city. The presentation took the form of a handsome writing desk, meerscham pipe, and tobacco pouch; subscribed for by his follow employees. A pleasant evening was spent.

1907

GOLDEN WEDDING.—Two near neighbours residing in John Street. Cellardyke, celebrated their golden weddings this week, viz. Mr and Mrs John Wilson (Corstorphine).- and Mr and Mrs Peter Murray (Anderson), when they were the recipients of many congratulations and presents from members of their families and friends. All the four are still hale sad hearty. and it is to hoped both couples will be spared to celebrate their diamond weddings.

1908

THE EVENT OF THE MONTH at THOMSON BROTHERS – Thomson Brothers Drapers Cellardyke have much pleasure in reminding the public thatBonus Week has again arrived and all customers handing in coupons to the value of £1 and upwards, will participate in the Division of profits then made.

Please note dates for handing in coupons, November 2^nd – November 7^th

 Thomson Brothers, 61 to 63 James Street.

SCARLET FEVER EPIDEMIC.—This fever as yet shows no signs of abatement and this week in Anstruther, Cellardyke, and Pittenweem, there have been quite a number of fresh cases. As the patients in the hospital get better and return to their homes, their places  are immediately filled at the hospital with new cases.

A telegram was received this forenoon from Downings Bay, Ireland, stating that the Anstruther bauldie, Queen, Skipper John Watson, Cellardyke, had become a total wreck by the heavy gale which had prevailed. No further particulars were given.

 Yarmouth – This week, the weather has been stormy, and there was no fishing to record by the local drifters on Tuesday. A strong northerly gale prevailed and none of the drifters were out. The drifter Edith arrived at Anstruther on Wednesday afternoon , having sailed from Scarborough the previous day, while the drifter Orcadia, Skipper John Mackay, Anstruther, sailed from Yarmouth yesterday for home. The Edith was accompanied by several Moray firth boats, and ran up the Forth for shelter. Late in the Afternoon the Lunan Bay, Skipper William Watson, Cellardyke, reached the Harbour, having left Yarmouth in the beginning of the week. On Wednesday the drifter Vanguard had 30 crans, which sold at 20s 6d per cran.

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1900

Londonderry Sentinel

Some particulars may be interesting regarding the fishing at Downings this season. Our fishing began about the middle of August, butt it was well on in September before there were any heavy catches. The fleet comprises about thirty-four large boats, three of which belong to local men and three come from Cellardyke; the rest are the property of the Congested Districts Board. Before going any further I may say that it was the Cellardyke fishermen who first introduced this class of boat into this bay. Alex. Pratt and William Watson. both belonging to Cellardyke, brought their own boats to Downings, six years ago, and have fished there each year steadily since, and both have had no cause to regret coming, as they have each done well. Owing to the scarcity of herring on the Scotch coast this year prices at Downing’s have been very high. ranging from 28s to 35s per cran and on several  ocassions they have gone as high as 36s. The Congested Districts Board supply boats new from the builder’s hands, anchors, ropes, and a full gear of nets to each crew (comprising six men). The Board give each man one share of the catches, and hold three shares themselves, and when the boat has cleared herself she belongs entirely to the crew, so you see at a glance this is a splendid chance for the fishermen, as they can step on board without having to pay one penny. An experienced instructor is supplied from the Board to each boat, and these men, being selected from amongst a large body of east coast of Scotland fishermen. are as fine a set of men as ever shot or hauled net or line. showing an example to the local men by their steady and cautious handling. ………………

COLLISIONS AND CONGESTION AT YARMOUTH.  Partly owing to the extreme congestion of Yarmouth Harbour, consequent upon the presence of over 400 Scottish herring boats, some mishaps have occurred to a few local craft, which has kept them in the repairers’ hands during the chief part of last week. The Anstruther steam liner, Isle of May, manned by a Buckhaven crew collided with the Montrose boat Mon Ami, the latter having her gunwale smashed up and deck started. The Camellia, of Montrose, in entering the harbour collided with the North Pier, smashing her stem, and the Vesper, of Cellardyke, in dropping up the harbour came into contact with the foreign brigantine Cvon Platen, and took a good deal of damage, for which she went into dry dock. Fortunately, there has this year been no serious losses of nets, as there was last year. Considering the boats are lying four and five deep on either side of the river, and that tugs come in and takeout strings of six and seven fishing boats at a time, the wonder is that accidents are so few.

MISSIONARY LECTURE.—Miss Elder Cumming, organising secretary of the British Women’s Foreign Mission Association, gave an address in Cellardyke Church on Sunday evening on the work of the Association in India, Africa, and China. The address was eagerly listened to by a large congregation, and evidently much appreciated.

1901

THE LATE MR ALEXANDER RODGER. CELLARDYKE. Very deep regret was expressed in the community when it became known on Friday evening that Mr Alex. Rodger had succumbed to an illness, the last stages of which had only lasted for a week or two. Indeed, the news of his illness came as a shock to the greater number of his friends. A son of the late David Rodger, and nephew of the well-known Captain Rodger, he was for a great many years a most successful fisherman, but latterly was associated with his father-in-law, the late Ex-Provost Watson, in his business.

1902

Yarmouth, A good fishing was landed here last week. The weather was fine, and the boats got to sea every night. The prizes fell a few shillings owing to the content supply, and the boat’s earnings would run from £60to £120. Among the KY.’s may be mentioned, the Ina Cook, Breadwinner, Alices and Celerity. KY. 75. It was blowing hard on Thursday night, and the boats returned moderately fished, prices 18s to 19s. The quality is very good.

DISASTROUS FIFE FIRE. BIG BLAZE AT CELLARDYKE. OILSKIN FACTORY GUTTED. AN ALARMING OUTBREAK. The large and commodious oilskin premises of Messrs Martin & Co., Cellardyke, were discovered to be on fire this morning shortly after ten o’clock. On the alarm being given the local fire brigade quickly on the spot, but by this time the fire had secured a firm hold on the buildings. The fire being fanned by a high east wind, the inside furnishings being composed of varnished wood, added to the fierceness of the flames. The greatest excitement prevailed amongst the tenants of the adjoining houses, who were asked to vacate their dwellings when it was seen that the flames had ignited the framework of the windows overlooking the factory. It is surmised that the fire originated by the boiling over of the linseed oil boilers. damage is roughly estimated at from £8000 to £10,000, which is, we understand, partially insurance. The premises have only been occupied a few months, the conflagration will throw large number of employees out of work.

ST ANDREWS BRIGADE CALLED OUT. At 11.15 this forenoon a telegraph was received in St Andrews from asking the services of the St Andrews Brigade a fire which had broken out in Cellardyke. The fire bell was rung, and in a remarkably short time the members of the brigade were in attendance, and soon after the steam fire-engine was on its way to the scene of the outbreak. The brigade is in charge of Captain Watson. Bailie Murray and Councillor Linskill also accompanied the brigade.

1903

Another Appeal to Fishery Board. Kilrenny Town Council at a meeting last night, resolved to make another appeal to the Fishery Board for Scotland to give further grant with which to complete the reconstruction of Cellardyke Harbour. The Board contributed £1300, and the amount contributed was £537 8s, making total expenditure of £1837. But in order to insure and the safety of the craft, it has been resolved to add small jetty the length of the east pier. The estimated cost of this fully £300. and the Fishery Board is be asked contribute the sum. The Clerk was instructed to draw up a memorial, and ask H. Watson, banker, Anstruther, member of the Board, to support it, the view being urged that were this extension gained the harbour would greatly relieve the congestion m Anstruther Harbour during winter fishing, as many of the smaller class of boats would likely go to Cellardyke.

1904

At a special meeting of Cellardyke Town Council on Monday afternoon, plans were submitted by Bailie Williamson for a new dwelling house to be erected by him in James Street, Cellardyke. The Council, after considering, the plans passed them, Mr Williamson explaining as to certain alterations which he proposed making to his original plans.

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