The Cellardyke Echo

1900

At a meeting of managers of the Church on Monday night, Mr Bisset, Granton, was appointed organist and choirmaster by a majority in room of Mr Pattison, Crail, who resigned. Rev. Mr Ray, the minister, left yesterday on a three weeks deputy mission work among the fishing population at Barra.

Private James Duncan, son of Mrs William Duncan (late of Cellardyke) , writes detailing his life and duty during the siege of Kimberley. We had no big guns to reply to the Boers shelling, but only a few mussel-loading 7-pounders, which were no use against 12 and 15 pounders. We have had some narrow escapes from shells. One day I was going down a street from the house, and on turning the corner into another street, a shell came and burst on the pavement, sending pieces flying all round. During the same day shells were coming into the town at a great rate, making large holes in the streets and wrecking houses. Mother, Willie, and I had a very narrow shave. They came up to visit me at the camp at the Sanatorium, in the afternoon. I took them to see the position where the Boers were firing from, a ridge about 5 miles away. I took them down to the end of the ground, and we stood watching the smoke of the gun. 2 or 3 shells were fired, but they burst a long way off. When the next one came it made a fearful noise going through the air, and it exploded right in front of us 10 yards away. Mother did the wise thing by getting fiat down on the ground. William got through the wire fence, and picked up a few bits scattered on the road, on which the train runs. It had passed 2 seconds before the shell came. We all got a fright, but it helped us all the better to stand the brutes of 100 pounders. They did terrible damage to the town. The firing of the shells at night when the town was at rest was most barbarous. All the shelling of the Boers never gave them any advantage. If they had shelled the defences and redoubts round the town, and then attacked the place, they might have gained something, but their purpose was to kill women and children, and fire at the hospital. The Boers knew that all the husbands and brothers were out at the different posts round the town, which were the safest places from shell fire. The only little bit of a scrape I had was on the day when the relief column came. We were relieved on a Thursday, but on the Wednesday we took a Boer position, Alexandersfontein. My company was sent out to relieve the townguard. We left at 3 o’clock and went to a place sailed Davis Koppie, stayed there until 8 o’clock at night. Then 25 of us marched to Alexandersfontein through torrents of rain. We were wet through in spite of the overcoats. We arrived there about ten o’clock p.m. We started to dig trenches for protection against rifle fire, which we knew would come with daylight. About 6 o’clock in the morning we were busy putting up a redoubt of sand bags, when whiss, ping, came a few bullets over our heads, and with that shell fire as well. Work was stopped at once, but only for a time. It was work that had to be done quickly for protection’s sake. An hour after we started again and worked a while when bullets and shells came again all round. The Boers had a twelve pounder gun on a koppie called Spitzkop, and a 40 pounder on another called Susanna, so that we had 12 pounders firing into the right of us and 40 pounders into the left. It was not pleasant to stand there and be targets for bullets and shells. Several of the party were out at different points, and noticing the enemy’s fire they started with maxim and rifles, preventing the Boers from coming to the redoubts. Meanwhile the Boers were trying to get round a position, an empty house, in which there were 12 of our fellows. Another section of 12 men, of which I was one, was sent out to check them. We advanced from the redoubt in single file, six paces from each other, taking all the cover we could behind bushes, ant heaps, &c.. until we reached a ridge. We saw the Boers and let them have plenty of fire. As we advanced over the ridge, the bushes got very scarce, and so little cover could be found we had to lie down and crawl along, firing a shot only now and again. The Boers were situated on a clump of big stones, and had excellent cover. They could see every move we made. I was lying behind a bush 3 feet high, and every now again would fire a round, and then lie flat, when the bullets would come and knock the leaves off the bush. The nearest bullet was 2 feet off. I dug it out of the ground. We had a hot time of it. One of our fellows was hit in the head. He was my messmate. It was at this time we were getting a cross fire from all sides. We had to lie in one position flat on the ground, for 1 ½ hours without seeing or firing a shot. Then the Maxim gun came up and played on the Boers. We dare not show ourselves even then, but had to slide along the ground flat for about 300 yards before we got to cover. The chap who was hit was able to help himself away. He was in the hospital 3 weeks, and now he has a piece of his skull about the size of a sixpence, to hang on his watch chain. Altogether 13 were wounded that day, and while the ambulance waggon was receiving them the Boers shelled it.

Our object was not to attack the enemy unless they attempted to advance. We were there to keep them back off the flat veldt, where the relief column was coming through, and to hold the dam and springs of water. At 3.30 P.M. we sighted the relief coming through the kopjee, where the 40 lb. gun was. A splendid sight it was. The gun immediately stopped shelling, the column captured it, and came into Alexandersfontein. Then the Boers ran off for dear life. Shortly afterwards the relief column marched into Kimberley.

Private Duncan concludes his interesting letter by saying he got the Queen’s box of chocolate all right, and hoping the war will soon be over. He says he had not slept in a bed for over 6 months, and all that time about 6 times in a tent, having had to sleep out in trenches, redoubts, and on tops of koppies. He had not had his clothes off to go to bed all the time.

1901

Launch of Fishing Boat.—Yesterday afternoon Mr Miller (Anstruther) launched a fishing boat which he has built to the order Messrs James Muir and James Tarvit, fishermen, Cellardyke. The boat was named the True Vine by Miss Muir, daughter of (me of the owners. She 68 feet over all, with a beam of 20 feet 10 inches, and depth of 8 feet.

Theft from a Harness-Room.

At a Police Court yesterday, David Ross, a carter, Cellardyke, pled guilty to stealing a horse’s collar from Kirkcaldy’s harness-room at the Dreel Castle stables and was fined 10s 6d, or seven days.

Robert Keith, carter, Cellardyke, was fined 7s 6d or five days, for a disturbance on Saturday night Shore and East Green Streets.

1902

Three Cellardyke boats which have been fishing for the past four weeks on the Donegal coast, arrived home on Saturday. The season was a very poor one, the stormy weather preventing them frequently getting to sea. The earnings were about £5O, and the prices sometimes went up to £3 per cran for the herrings, which were of splendid quality. The rest of the Cellardyke boats are to remain for three or four weeks yet in the hope that better weather will enable them to secure more herrings.

The earnings of the liners last week were as follows:—Rothesay Bay £78, Anster Fair £69, Glenogil £6O, Innergellie £42, and William Tenant £9O.

1903

The many friends of the late Mr Thos. Cunningham of Cellardyke will be very pleased to hear of his son, Rev. Thomas Cunningham’s great success and honour in ministerial work. He is the Minister of “Scottsdale” and “Ringarooma,” Tasmania, where he has laboured for the last twelve years, and at the last General Assembly of the Presbyterian church of Tasmania, he was elected to the moderator’s chair. Prior to this honour being conferred on him, the ladies of his congregation presented him with lovely new pulpit-robes, showing how much he is esteemed and beloved. It is the heartfelt wish of all his friends that the rev. gentleman may be spared in health and strength to labour amongst those who all love him so dearly.

PROPELLOR FOR FISHING BOATS. We hare much pleasure in calling attention to MACDONALD’S IMPROVED STEAM CAPSTAN, and to their New and Highly Satisfactory PORTABLE PROPELLOR for FISHING BOATS. The Propellors, which can be fitted into any boat, have surpassed all expectations, and are capable of driving a boat at six knots without interfering with her as a sailing craft. We shall be glad to give particulars to interested parties regarding this most important invention to Fishermen. AGENTS- JOHN MARTIN & Co., CELLARDYKE:

1904

THE FISHERY STATISTICS OF THE ANSTRUTHER DISTRICT. The tables prepared on behalf of the Fishery Board for Scotland, and given in the annual report recently issued, show that in their Anstruther district last year there were 11 steam vessels engaged in the fishing with 116 of a tonnage, and of the value of £10,725. The value of the lines was £518, of the nets £1055, and of the bush, buoy ropes and buoys £378. The length of the lines in yards was 308.700, and 315,000 square yards of netting and 23,240 yards of ropes. The number of men and boys engaged was 71.

The fishing boats in the district last year numbered 515, of a value of 299,504, while the value of the nets was £60,042, the lines £4,440, the bush and buoy ropes, &c., £14,954, and the crab and lobster creels £801, or a grand total of £179,741, The area of netting in square yards was 20,469,844, of the lines 2,678, 940, and of the ropes 908,410. The number of crab and lobster creels was 5,760. The number of fishermen and boys was 2,178.

In Anstruther and Cellardyke there are 142 boats with 434 resident fishermen and boys and 163 non-resident fishermen and boys. The value of all kinds of fish landed last year was £38,987.  ( this figure is incorrect as in the winter herring season alone that year 32 000 crans were landed and the minimum value being  £1 per cran) In Pittenweem there are 66 boats with 227 resident and 87 non-resident fishermen while the value of the fish landed was £40,047. In St Monans there are 100 boats with 372 resident and 204 non-resident fishermen, and the value last year was £9,157. In Crail and Kingsbarns there are 42 boats with 78 fishermen, and the value was £5433. In Crail alone the value was £4803. In Anstruther district there are 2801 persons employed in the industry.

1885

The dashing North Sea clipper “Alaska” of Cellardyke has just been exchanged by skipper Thomas Ritchie for the “Margarets,” belonging to his young townsmen, Mr David Davidson. The Skipper, we believe, is induced to take this step as a veteran will do who finds his strength no longer equal to the fire of the race, and so, however reluctantly reefs his sail.

1886

Owing to the heavy gales of Monday and Tuesday the fishermen have suffered great loss of gear, many of the nets, when shot for bait, have been torn to shreds. Very fair shots of big fish were landed by 56 boats, and the sums realised ranged from £4 to £33 The prices were—cod, 12s to 16s per score ; ling, 1s 3d to 2se each ; halibut, 3s 9d to 5s per stone; and skate. 1s 3d to 1s 6d each. The most of the fish were bought by the local fishcurers to be dried. Six Cellardyke boats left Anstruther lost week to prosecute the herring fishing on the Irish coast at Kinsale.

A Cutting from the Log

“Eiast oot for the muckle creel ” was the watchword of Tom Murray, who lived in the days of Queen Anne and as true at this hour as it was a hundred and eighty years ago. Only see, for example, the last time the sail was furled at Anster Pier. There would seem to be little to glean or gather on the edge, but how widely different is the harvest in the outer sea! The boats to leeward—that is, forty to eighty miles east of the May—realised five to twenty pounds, but the supplies to windward are the big sheaves of the year. Thus it was that by the fifty-six sales on Friday the broad quay, stretching like a great arm a couple of furlongs to sea, was once and again, as alter a snowstorm, by the white fish laid out for market. But let a single anecdote illustrate the whole. As the shadows began to fall on Monday, the boats, as if by given signals, took in sail to fish for bait. Not so one gallant craft which, like the curlew, holds her onward flight. Now the curtain falls, and nothing is to be seen save the stars at their sentinel-watch on the battlements of night, and now the sun goes forth like a bridegroom on sea and sky; but she flies on till but two hundred miles are spun by the log away from the May, when first the net and then the line is cast on the smiling deep. It is the Jessie, of Cellardyke, and Skipper Brunton has so exactly hit one of the green spots of ocean that well may the veteran exclaim : “I say, if this is no Shetland, it’s as gude,” as the well-filled hook goes thumping on the deck ; and so, by and-bye, the long run ends at Anstruther pier with the magnificent take of 490 cod, 70 ling, and 20 halibut, of such a size and condition as would have thrown Imperial Rome into ecstasies, not to count the 12 or 13 score of codlings, &c., reserved for the winter use of the crew. The seventy takes fetched £5 to £31, at such prices with first arrivals as cod 17s, and ling 5s and 30s per score ; but there was the usual backward swing, need we say after the lest whistle of the train. Several of the Fifeshire boats were caught within the circle of the gale. Happily no damage was sustained at sea, but the favourite was dismasted in Fisher Row Bay, and the Herbert Gladstone snapped her foreyard, and so was left to drift for a time at the mercy of the tide. Never, perhaps, did the fleet put to sea under more favourable auspices than on Monday. By daybreak the last sail was only seen, if seen at all, like a speck, so fair was the wind ; but by-and-by the sky was strangely overcast, and that night the hardy fisher had to watch by tiller and sheet in one of the wildest storms of the season. Telegrams are to hand telling that several had taken shelter at Aberdeen, Stonehaven, &c.; but as a rule, the fleet kept forereaching at sea with the hope of being able to continue the cruise. The fifteen Fifeshire boats have now sailed for the herring fishing at Kinsale.—Fish Trades Gazette.

1887

On Friday evening last about 7 o’clock some alarm and excitement were created in Cellardyke by a report that a boat had gone ashore on the rocks to the westward of Cellardyke harbour. It seems that there not being enough water to get into Anstruther harbour, the “J. Ritchie-Welch” (Skipper, James Smith), was bringing up to lie until the tide flowed, when, being close inshore, the swell carried her on to the ” busses ” rocks lying to the west of Cellardyke harbour. Assisted by the flowing tide, however, she was soon got off, not much the worse of the mishap. L

LARGE CATCH of Big Fish.—The returns of the enormous quantities of big fish landed at Anstruther on Friday and Saturday of last week have just been made out, and show that there were delivered no fewer than 18,018 cod, 1056 halibut, 2961 ling, 458 skate, and 1901 coleman, making a total of 24,394 fish put out of 62 boats. The highest fished boats were the Jessie, skipper Brunton, who delivered 1191 fish, and received £33 (£4,437.35 in today’s money); and the James Ritchie Welch, skipper Smith, 1108 fish, which realised £35 7s. The money value of the total catch was about £1OOO.( £134,465.12 approx. value today)

ST Cyrus.-On Monday a carrier pigeon alighted at the small fishing village of Tangle Ha’, being the bearer of the following message from fishing boat at sea —”To Anstruther—From boat Vine, Cellardyke—1 o’clock, —25 miles off May—15 miles off Northland. Very little wind, and a little thick, but we see land north. First one went towards, Northland.—T. C.”

ln addition to the two patents, which Messrs Duncan & Black, Cellardyke, hare taken out for buoys and sea boots, and which have proved a decided advantage to the fishing community throughout Scotland, they have just secured a registered design for the improvement of fishermen’s brooks. Formerly it has always been a complaint by the fishermen that when hauling their lines or nets in stormy weather, they are often drenched into the skin by the water getting in at the side of the trousers. Owing to the construction of the flap, water is admitted freely, and in order to obviate this Messrs Duncan & Black have put on what they term ” flap-guards,” that is a piece of cloth sewed in at the sides, and when the brooks are buttoned up these guards are so placed that any sea water striking a fisherman will at once run off, and thus keep their inside clothes thoroughly dry. The brooks have now been appropriately named “Keep-me dry,” and a number of fishermen, who have seen them, have given orders for them, and speak highly of the advantages that will accrue to their class by wearing them.

1888

On Monday morning David Wilson, aged 15, an apprentice in the bakery of Mr David Quillan, Cellardyke, was at work with the biscuit machine. While in the attempt to adjust a pin his right hand was caught by the revolving wheels, and so shattered that Dr McCallum found it necessary to amputate several of the fingers.

In the Sheriff Court on Tuesday an action was raised by John Gilchrist, shoemaker, Anstruther, against David Stewart, baker, lately in Cellardyke and now in Cupar, for a half-year’s rent of house, shop and bakehouse, lately tenanted by defender. The case for the defence was that the bakehouse had to be left after being used for a short time, because of its insanitary condition, and that the house which had been let along with the bakehouse, and had been left shortly afterwards, was of no service to defender without the bakehouse by which he earned his livelihood. The father of the defender, examined by Mr J. E. Grosset, Cupar, stated that he had complained to pursuer four times about the state of the bakehouse, the roof of which was so defective as to allow the snow and rain to enter and the floor of which in damp weather was flooded with water from a drain. The pursuer had not employed a practical man to make the repairs, but had done so himself, and the consequence had been that matters had never been put right. On the 17th of March, after the sanitary inspector and the medical officer of the burgh had condemned the place as insanitary and not a fit place in which food should be prepared, he left the premises. He had previously warned the landlord that he would not remain unless matters were put right. When he left the pursuer sequestered his baking utensils and furniture. Mr James Jack, sanitary inspector, corroborated the evidence as to the insanitary condition of the bakehouse, and said the smell arising from the damp was sufficient to taint the bread. Mr Gilchrist, pursuer, examined by Mr W. A. Taylor, Cupar, said the place bad been occupied as a bakehouse for seven or eight years. He admitted that the roof was so far defective as to allow snow to be blown through the crevices, but he maintained that the flooding of the floor with surface water, which came from an outside drain, and the unclean state of the walls arose from negligence on the part of the defender. The roof had been put in repair as soon as the weather permitted the work being done. His lordship said there was no doubt that the place had been in an insanitary condition, but as this was due as much to want of proper care of the part of the defender as pursuer, he granted decree as craved. No expenses were asked.

1889

On Saturday afternoon George Smith, Cellardyke.  A dumb and deformed young man, was walking through West Anstruther when he was struck by a horse and knocked down, the cart passing over his body. When picked up it was found that two of his ribs had been broken, and he was also otherwise injured.

(another article reporting the same accident)

As George Smith was selling, in his old characteristic way on Saturday about the doors of West Anstruther, the fish so kindly given by the skippers, a passing horse threw him to the ground. He regained his feet and limped about a hundred yards, when he became so ill that he had to be driven to his mother’s house in Cellardyke, where it was seen that with other injuries two or three of his vibe were broken.

About 100 boats from Cellardyke will be engaged at Shetland, so that very few will be left at home in the course of three weeks.

CELLARDYKE- THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY.—Tuesday was observed as the Queen’s Birthday holiday in Cellardyke. The weather was delightful, and a good number left the town during the day by rail and machine.

FIFESHIRE MANUFACTORY AND OTHER DESIRABLE PROPERTIES IN CELLARDYKE FOR SALE.

There will be SOLD by Public Roup, (in virtue of the powers contained in Bonds and Dispositions in Security), within the TOWN HALL, Cellardyke, on MONDAY the 10^th day of June 11889, at Two o’clock Afternoon.

THE NET and OILSKIN FACTORY, OIL-HOUSE. DWELLING – HOUSES, SHOPS, STORES, OFFICES, and other PERTINENTs numbered 29, 31, 33, 35, 37, and 39 James Street, Cellardyke with the ground belonging to same, all as presently occupied by Messrs Black & Company, Manufacturers, Mr Fortune, Druggist, and others.

For further particulars apply to Messrs Jamieson & Guthrie, Solicitors, Anstruther, in whose hands are the Title Deeds and Articles of Roup.

1880

BROTHERHOOD IN CELLARDYKE.

A new Friendly Society has just been formed here under the name of the Cellardyke Fishermen’s Union and Benefit Society. According to the rules, which have a curious identity with those of the Odd-fellows, none but fishermen may enter; but all such have an open door as long they go in the deep-sea boats. The entry money is only one shilling, and the payments two pence a-week; but the promoters build on these a platform wide enough to provide for hurt and ailing members, and even give permanent relief after “three score,” and to widows whenever rendered so by the dispensations of Profidence. This is by no means new experiment in the district; but has been launched at a time when there is a loud knock every door to provide, as Heaven shall give the means for a possible day of trouble and distress; and it speaks well for the true Scottish heart of the community that already about one hundred have embarked in the Association. Economists will be no less gratified to hear that life assurance is taking such good root in Cellardyke, that within the last week or two some twenty are entered for sums ranging from £50 to £200. Simultaneous with all this, active effort going on for the relief of the widow and the fatherless. Mr Robert Davidson, in his district of John Street, has collected £8 9s ; while Provost Watson and Mr Black, amongst the neighbours of Forth Street, have raised £12 0s 6d, and the other sections of the town are expected to be overtaken this week with no less substantial tokens of Christian sympathy and regard. The appeal is a touching one, and the public heart is vibrating to it; but special thanks are surely due to Mrs Murray, ST Alye’s Crescent, for her untiring devotion in the paths of the Good Samaritan. The total subscriptions this date in the hand of Mr Peter Thomson, treasurer, border on £100.

The Magistrates of Kilrenny are still in doubt and difficulty about pure water supply for Cellardyke. The other day saw them out on a tour of exploration in the uplands of the parish, when they visited the old mines at Pitcorthie and Carvenom, where like the “tappings” of some mighty cistern, the springlet sings gaily all through the longest summer day. Cool and crystalline also, they are in this respect, in grateful contrast to the thick and muddy streams flowing beside them in ditch and brook, though their birthplace in the iron and other mineral strata forbids their use or adaptation for the town. The complaints, especially in the west end of Cellardyke are, of course, increased and increasing as the drought advances, and the inconvenience and discomfort of the neighbours fully warrants the outcry which is to be heard upon the subject. In this, however, they are not alone – so far as the pure element goes, the inhabitants of Anstruther are in no better plight, though none but the housewife may know the sacrifices that have been made over kettle and tub. Sharing then as they do the same pressing wants, had almost said in those days of typhoid or worse – the same urgent peril – it is obviously the duty of the authorities of both towns to unite in the spirit, and for the object suggested at late meeting Provost Halson Anderson as to meet by some well-considered scheme, the necessity of both towns.

1881

New Fishing vessel- -Important Improvements

Our townsman. Mr Alexander Cunningham, will launch in a day or two the largest fishing boat yet built to the order of a Fifeshire fisherman. She Is built on the lines of the model which obtained the Norwich award of medal to her builder, and is about 53 feet in length, 17 in beam, and over 30 tons Is measurement. Her cabin is designed with a special eye to the comfort and convenience of the crew, who, instead of cooking and sleeping it the same dingy cockpit are as snugly berthed as in any ocean liner. The stowage of gear or cargo is no less ingenious and complete; but the most salient feature of “Our Queen.” as she is to be christened is her rig, which is to be on the fore and aft principle so long advocated by the friends of the fishermen. The insuperable difficulty, as it proved on a recent occasion, of unshipping the mast when at the drift, has been met by a simple but effective arrangement. From the first, however, there were those who saw no great impediment in this matter, if only from the fact that the spar is about one third or so lighter as compared with one for such a boat rigged in the ordinary way with lug sail and jib. The sails, of course will be worked with an immense saving in tell and danger, and it will now be possible to hoist a flying topsail so as to take advantage of a light or summer breeze, when without it the reef points would be rattling idly on the sluggish folds. The bravest of the shore have perished while ” dipping the sails,” as it is called, but Mr Cunningham has another claim on the regard of the coast -to wit, in the safety rail, or bulwark, with which the smack is fitted. It will not soon be forgotten in Cellardyke how boat after boat came in, in the course of last year, with one or more of the gallant crew washed away in the storm, but, as a special preventative, a knee deep rail is built over the gunwale, which gives to the deck all the appearance and security of a first class sea trader. The smack is otherwise a superior specimen of her class, in respect both of material and workmanship. She is one of several orders to our coast builders from St Andrews, her owners being the Messrs Black, who, with characteristic energy, are to join in those branches of the fishery which have done so much of law to develop the wealth of the Scottish sea.

The first launch at West Anstruther took place on Friday, when the dashing craft, which is to the order of Mr John Seller, Cellardyke, was christened the “Pride of Fife.” Her handsome sister found her destined element on Monday, under the name for ever sacred to grace and beauty, “The Lady the Lake.” She is for Mr Alexander Davidson, also of Cellardyke. Councillor Millar has now his hands free to proceed with a cruising yacht. Our townsman. Councillor Jervis, has completed a first-class boat on the lines for which he, as in the case of Mr Alexander Cunningham, obtained a silver medal in Norwich. She is in the meantime quite an attraction to the Forth, and opinions are as one amongst the old salts about her capabilities fast and powerful sea boat. She is to the order of Thomas Anderson and Alexander Murray, and to, we hear, to be named the “Carmi.” The Councillor has two other first-class boats on hand for the drave –one and all for Cellardyke; but, with this exception, we have said, the trade is waiting for the “moving of the waters” in that all-important event of the fisher year. The Cellardyke is fleet then to number scarcely less than 180 boats which will make the total outfit from the East Fife not under or 340, being a decided advance on any former effort of the coast.

1882

At a Burgh Court held on Monday–before Provost Anderson and Bailies Darsie and Graham—Alexander Macleod, labourer, residing in Cellardyke, was charged with offences within the meaning of the 251st section of the General Police Act, in so far as, between the hours of one and Iwo on Sunday morning, he did conduct himself in a riotous and disorderly manner by shouting and bawling; and also with having destroyed a pail while in one of the police cells. After some hesitation he pleaded not guilty. From the evidence of Police-constables Spark and Martin, it appeared that while patrolling Shore Street on the morning in question they came upon Macleod lying in the street drunk, and Spark knowing where he lodged endeavoured to get him home. He, however, threw himself from them, and lying down on the street commenced to roar at the pitch of his voice and tried to kick the constables. He was then handcuffed, and despite his struggles was removed to the cells. Here he continued to make a great noise, and apprehensive that he might do himself some injury his hands were handcuffed behind his back. In this position he managed to get hold of a pail, which he destroyed by repeated knocking on the door. Having nothing to say, the Magistrates imposed the modified penalty of is7s 6d, with the alternative of seven days’ imprisonment.

The Cellardyke deep-sea going boat, “James and Agnes,” has just been sold by Skipper Smith to Captain Joseph Moss for the sum, as the story goes, of £147. Captain Moss is well known in the Forth, seeing that instead of laying his fishing snack at the end of the season like his neighbours on the beach he used to fit her up as a kind of packet in the coasting trade. She had been a French pleasure yacht in her day, and a finer sea-boat did not weather St Nicholas Gap till she went to places in the midnight gale the other month on the English coast. Captain Moss and his crew all but found a grave in the raging sea, but, with the courage of a true sailor, he is to begin the world again with his Fifeshire boat. She sailed the other day for Yarmouth, there to be fitted out for the North Sea drave, in which her crew will engage, not on the old feudal system, which still continues like a rusty relic of the past to enslave the beachmen, but on the “share and share alike principle” of our Scottish fishermen, whose example, as well as the good seed of the temperance mission, is, as we see, here proving no mean leverage amongst the fishermen of the south.

1883

The International Fisheries Exhibition, Norwich

… The show drift nets and other deep-Sea fishing tackle is large, and the nets differ from each other in appearance very little except in the size of the mesh. Wonderful progress is shown to have taken place even in the of this kind of thing, and the different varieties on view easily open for those who hold strong opinions one way or the other the controversy as to the size of the mesh. The leading exhibition, either English or Scottish, in the department of nets, lines, and fishing appliances of all kinds, are Messrs Sharp A Murray, Cellardyke, who base a most artistically arranged stand, a net with cured herrings being hung from poles as it would be suspended in the sea. The stand is very attractive, and few would have imagined without seeing it, the novel and pretty effects in the way of decoration which Means Sharp and Murray have accomplished with no other material than nets. The net with the herring in the meshes just they are caught has naturally been an object interest and the stand has a complete collection of deep sea fishing gear of all kinds.

On Wednesday night the large steamer “Queen,” of the Leith and Shetland steamships, called at Anstruther harbour about five o’clock. to take, in a cargo of barrels from Messrs Sharp & Murray, Cellardyke. In less than an hour and a half fully 1,500 barrels were packed away, and the steamer had sailed for Fraserburgh to take in another cargo there, and thence to proceed to Shetland. The pier was a scene of great activity for the time being, a large number of spectators being present, who apparently watched with evident interest the work as it was carried on. The steamer, which took on board a similar cargo here last year, is the largest that has ever been in Anstruther harbour. A good number of passengers (relatives of the fishermen who have gone from this quarter), left with the “Queen” for Shetland.

1884

CELLARDYKE CRICKET CLUB. (To the Editor of the Record.) I was glad to see in your paper of last week that the Cellardyke Cricket Club had got started once more. The young men of this Club deserve every encouragement to go on with this manly end healthy exercise. But the question is, how can they go on when they haven’t a public park, or a park of their own to play in, where they can have every freedom? Why can’t the Magistrates of Cellardyke and Anstruther go hand in hand and purchase a park, where the young men of both towns could enjoy such healthy exercises as cricket and football? There is scarcely a town now but has its cricket field or bowling green. Elie, Leven, Crail, and St Andrews have their links, and Cellardyke and Anstruther can’t even boast of a cricket field. No doubt there’s a lawn tennis club, but it’s only those and such as those who are members of it. Numerous are the letters which have been published in your paper about the young men standing at street corners, but what else can we expect? There is no attraction to take them elsewhere. Numerous though the letters have been, they have failed to stir up the Magistrates to procure a remedy for this evil. Let them rent a park, say Bankie Park, or the park behind Union Place, where there would be ample room for cricket, football, bowling, and quoits, being freely indulged in. This, I think, would be a capital remedy. What I could say to the Cricket Club is to go on and persevere. Let your eleven practice often together. Challenge the Pittenweem and Colinsburgh Cricket Clubs to play a match, and charge so much for admission into the field, which would greatly help to increase your funds. I wish the Cellardyke Cricket Club every success.- I remain, yours truly, ALPHA.

1876

The fund which Sir Robert Anstruther originated, and which owes so much of its success to the ardour which he threw into the preliminary steps, for the relief of the widows and children of the Cellardyke and St Monance fishermen lost at sea in the dreadful gales of November now reaches £7235, ( a figure equivalent to £853,730 today) a figure which the most sanguine supporter of the movement never anticipated. The public have thus shown in the most practical and handsome manner their sympathy with the bereaved, and the only danger now to guard against is the fostering of a spirit of dependence on the liberality of others on the part of those who prosecute so dangerous a calling as fishermen. As of the outcomes of the calamity is the formation of a Boat Insurance Club, those who neglect to take advantage of this means of protecting themselves and their families against loss cannot expect that the public will be so liberal in the event of any similar catastrophe, and the moral now sought to be conveyed is that fishermen like other classes should take a rier advantage of the benefits of insurance.

The largest capture of fish for this season has this week landed at Anstruther harbour, and was secured by the crew of skipper James Brunton, belonging to Cellardyke, who bad been at the deep sea fishing. The catch comprised 51 saithe, 39 ling, 101 halibut, 130 skate, and 600 cod; total, 925 fish all in prime condition. The halibut alone were sold at £39 and the whole catch realised the goodly sum of £63.  (£63 is the equivalent of £7434. today)

1877

Hearse Society.

The annual meeting of the members of Kilrenny Hearse Society was held in the Town Hall on Saturday – Mr George Watson presiding. Mr Baldie, the treasurer, read a statement of the accounts, from which it appeared that the receipts had amounted to £91 and the expenditure to about £97. It was agreed to continue the entrance fee at 2s 6d, but that the yearly levy should be doubled and the hire of the hearse raised.

CLASS FOR SIGHT-SINGING.-It will be seen that Mr Brechin, the well-known teacher of music reading, is to form a class here this evening in the Town Hall. We trust it will be well attended, as it is seldom that such an opportunity occurs of requiting a competent knowledge of this art.

On Friday morning a distressing accident occurred in Cellardyke, in the case of a little girl of two-and-a-half years of age, the grandchild of Mr George Anderson, farm servant, who was play with another child of the household, when her flying skirts, it is said, 1led to the overturning of a pot of boiling water which a minute before had been lifted down on the hearthstone. The poor innocent fell into the scalding stream, and so terrible were the consequences that after lingering in intense and hopeless agony she was mercifully released by the sleep of death within twenty four hours after the deplorable event.

1879

STONEHAVEN. LOSS OF NETS BY FISHING BOATS. The boat No. 1527 K.Y., of Cellardyke (James Smith, master), put into Stonehaven late Tuesday morning, and reports having been caught in the gale on Tuesday morning, about 60 miles S.E. by S. off Buchanness. The gale burst on the boat with such violence that she was driven from the drift, and lost 22 new nets. The Ann, of Cove, and the Sunbeam, of Aberdeen, also put in yesterday morning, both having been driven from their drifts, the former with the loss of twelve and the latter of ten nets. The nets recovered were greatly damaged.

Boat Picked Sea —As the Cellardyke deep sea going boat “Polar Star,” Martin Gardiner master, was on the homeward run last week, the crew observed a shallop or skiff adrift in the waves some sixteen miles beyond Fifeness. The skiff was taken shore and given up to the acting receiver of wreck. Her length is about fifteen feet, but she has evidently had service while on duty as the longboat some foreign vessel, the name of which, however, is obliterated.

A Burgh Court held in Cellardyke on Thursday morning—all the magistrates being on the bench—when an unfortunate young man, of imbecile intellect, named Hector Maclean, was charged with committing breach of the peace in his father’s house, during which he had brandished an open razor and also sharp axe to the terror of the inmates, and likewise with assault in far that be scratched the hand of Constable Forsyth, who had been called in to quell the disturbance which had taken place on the previous day. The unhappy lad pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to fine of 20s or 20 days in jail. The bench were also agreed as to the necessity of placing the poor prisoner under permanent restraint, particularly after the father, old Hector Maclean, had made a declaration to his hopeless fatuous condition, when Mr Thomas Brown, the inspector of the poor, was sent for, but we understand that the nature of his detention, whether as prisoner or patient, will rest with the medical examination which will take place in course in the county jail.

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

There are no news of any particular interest elsewhere; but betides the ten or eleven Cellardyke crew, at distant fishing grounds, other two have left this week for the herring drave at Howth.

1871

Anstruther. Furious Driving.

At the Burgh Court of West Anstruther on Monday-Bailies Darsie and Dougal on the bench

David Brown, who was convicted on Saturday in Cellardyke, was charged with furious driving to the danger of the lives of the lieges on the High Street on the evening of Wednesday last. He pleaded guilty, and after receiving a suitable admonition from Bailie Darsie, he was sentenced to a fine of 5s, or eight days’ imprisonment.

A lover in Burgh Court

The magistrates of Kilrenny held a court on Saturday, when David Brown, carter, Anstruther, appeared before them charged with having committed a breach of the peace, and also with malicious mischief, at the house of Thos. Pringle, cooper, on the previous Monday evening. According to the evidence adduced, the panel was in the habit of paying his addresses to a young woman residing in the house, but on the evening in question he had been so much more the devotee of Bacchus than of Cupid, that the attempt to reach his ” ladye love’s bower” he had fallen on the stair, which had there and then become to him the friendliest couch, but in trying, we may presume, to find out the softest place in the steps, he had attracted the landlord, Thomas Pringle, to the spot, who in attempting to dislodge him with a poker had to some degree tasted the truth of the old proverb, ‘It’s best to let sleepin’ dogs lie,” for Brown, after disarming his assailant, had raised such an outcry as alarm the whole neighbourhood, and by way of finish up had smashed in two panes of the landlord’s windows. The panel pleaded not guilty, and tried to throw the blame on Thomas Pringle for using the poker, but after hearing the witnesses, the magistrates found the charge fully proven, and sentenced Brown to a fine of 10s 6d, or ten days’ imprisonment.

Harbour Commission.

The monthly meeting of this Board was held on Monday evening – Provost Todd in the chair. The minutes of last meeting were read, but those of interim special meeting were reserved as strictly private. The treasurer then submitted his usual statement of the monthly revenue of the harbour, being for the period from 21st March to 20th April, according to which the various receipts had yielded a total of £68 5s 0 1/2d, being an increase of £7 10s 8d as compared with the corresponding month of last year. The Board then made the usual arrangements for the letting of the curing and boat stations. The treasurer then reported that the “pauls” used in beaching the boats on the west shore were to great extent unserviceable, when he was instructed to have the same renewed or repaired, as might be found necessary. The treasurer also reported that Skipper William Watson (Jack), of Cellardyke, had landed his fish at that harbour, and then driven the same for sale on the quay here, but unlike the other skippers in such a case, he refused to pay the ordinary fish rates on the ground “that it was a new thing,” and not competent for the Commissioners to levy the dues. The Clerk read the provisions of the Harbour Act as to the levying of the dues, by which it was declared that all goods were chargeable whether ” shipped or unshipped, received or de livered,” on the piers and other works of the harbour. The meeting was of opinion that Skipper Watson’s objection was fully and explicitly met in the latter definition. The Clerk suggested a prosecution, but Bailie Sharp said that this was quite unnecessary, as he would take opportunity to meet with and explain the matter in a friendly way to Skipper Watson, and this course was unanimously approved of.

1872

Cellardyke – Disturbing the Peace

Thomas Lindsay, sometime a shoe maker, but present fisherman in Pittenweem was placed at the bar of the Bailie Court on Saturday last, charged with having committed a breach of the peace, by being drunk and disorderly, and with threatening to fight with Robert Moncrieff fisherman, about the midnight of Saturday, the 13^th ultimo, to which he pleaded guilty, and after reprimand by Provost Martin, was sentenced to a fine of 10s 6d, or ten days in jail. We may state that for some time past it has been habit of young Pittenweem scamps to parade the streets of Cellardyke, insulting the peaceful neighbours and trying to instigate a quarrel with all and sundry hey met. It is no rare thing, indeed, for the solemn silence of the Sabbath morning to be interrupted by their drunken shouts, and with such blatant doggerel chorus as

 “Our game shall be,

Down with the Dykers as we go,”

and various encounters had actually occurred; but the salutary severity with which, as in this case, our public spirited magistrates have dealt with offenders, will, there is reason to believe, effectually scotch out the nuisance.

Nine Cellardyke fishing boats left this week to prosecute the herring fishing at Barra, on the west coast. Some of them are engaged at 9s per cran for this month,. And 16s for the remainder of the season, and the others at 15s per can for the whole time.

1875

The East Anstruther Bailies held Criminal Court on Tuesday last, when Robert Christie, carter, Cellardyke, pleaded guilty to having committed assault on Alexander Carmichael, also carter in Cellardyke, during some contention about “turns” on the pier the previous Wednesday, which he pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to fine of 7s 6d. James Thomson, another hopeful knight of the whip, from the Queen of fishing towns, was charged with furious driving along the west end of the High Street on the Fest-day. Thomson pleaded that he was no more guilty than his neighbours, but on the evidence Constable David Gordon and Bailie Robert Brodie, he was convicted of the charge and sentenced, as in the case of his towns fellow, to a fine of 7s.

THE RESULT OF A DOG FIGHT.

At a Burgh Court held here on Tuesday—all the Magistrates being present—Margaret Inglis or Wilson, a widow, and Agnes Wilson, her daughter, were charged with assaulting Jacobina Scott or Montodore, wife of John Montodore, fisherman, on the 28th ult. They pleaded not guilty, and five witnesses were examined on each side, from whose evidence it appeared that two dogs—one of them belonging to Montodore and the other to the accused – had been fighting on the street below Montodore’s house, and in order to separate them Mrs Montodore threw a pitcher containing some water at them. The panels alleged that the pitcher was thrown at Mrs Wilson, and on Mrs Montodore coming to the street she was attacked by the panels, one of whom tore her ‘ mutch’ off her head. The dogs meanwhile continued their battle, the result being that one of them got an eye nearly torn out. The Magistrates found the charge proven, and fined them 3s 9d each. The case, which lasted nearly an hour, attracted a large audience of men and women.

Alarming Fire at Cornceres

The fine farm house of Corn Ceres- the most picturesque homestead in the East Neuk, narrowly escaped being destroyed by fire on Tuesday week. It appears that one  of the chimney flues had taken fire, and that, all unperceived and unsuspected, the burning soot had lodged in the cavity of the double ridge till it had ignited the ‘ tinder dry’ wooden grating overlying the gutter, which, melting the lead, gave the flames ready access to the timber work of the roof. Happily at this crisis a burning smell was felt by a domestic, who at once gave the alarm to the people of the farm, who, by lucky chance, were work in the thrashing mill, when willing hands lost no time in crowding to the rescue. Strength and zeal, however, might have been all unequal to arrest the progress of the fire, which was now rising in a dense canopy of smoke and flame, the veteran Cellardyke builder, Andrew Duncan, ascended the roof, and with all the vigour and agility of youth, stripped away the slates, when flames being thus unbosomed the copious stream of water, which resolute hands played upon them, the fire was subdued Justas the rafters had come within the devouring embrace. Bring thus in time the damage was restricted the section the roof where the fire originated; but under the circumstances much praise is due to the farm workers, both men and women, for their brave and willing aid. Nor should we forget to state that the preservation of the beautiful homestead was largely due to the presence of mind and well-directed exertions of David Gray, Esq., Rennyhill, who, by singular good fortune, chanced at the time to be calling on his brother, Mr William Gray, the respected farmer of Corn Ceres .

1916

An Old Offender.

A Cellardyke fisherman named John McRuvie was brought before Provost. Readdie, at a Police Court in Anstruther on Friday, charged with having, on the 16th inst.. in Shore Street, conducted himself in a riotous and disorderly manner and challenged several persons to fight. He admitted the offence. and it was stated by the Procurator-Fiscal (Mr Masterton) that there were eight previous convictions recorded against the accused, who, however, had been trying to reform, it being four years since he was last before the Court. The accused stated that he was sorry at what had happened, but unfortunately he had taken too much drink on this occasion, and had so far forgotten himself. The Provost said that he was pleased to know that the accused had been endeavouring for some time to lead a better life, and it was to be regretted that he had not continued to do so. In the hope that this would be a warning to him, he imposed a lenient sentence of a fine of 7s 6d, with the alternative of five days’ imprisonment. The fine was paid.

Believed the Sergeant.

Too much faith in the powers of recruiting sergeants appears to have been the responsible factor in bringing David Reid, 13 Dove Street, Cellardyke before Hon. Sheriff David Osborne, at Cupar, last Thursday. He was charged with having failed to report as a reservist under the Military Service Act.

Mr T. W. Davidson, solicitor. Cupar, stated that he had advised the accused to plead guilty. The facts were that this man suffered from a serious affection of the eye; he was very nearly blind. About six months ago he met a recruiting sergeant in St Monans, and had a conversation in regard to joining the Army. This recruiting sergeant looked at his eye, and told him it was no use his attesting and as a result when he got the first notice he paid no attention. When the second was received, the accused’s father went to the Clerk to the Kilrenny local Tribunal, and asked for a form on which to appeal on ground of infirmity. The Clerk he in was informed, refused to give him an appeal form on the ground that it was too late. The accused was afterwards arrested on his way to work, and on being brought up at Cupar tendered a plea of not guilty. Having been arrested when he had no money on him, and having no time to arrange, he was imprisoned for one night in Dundee Prison before he (Mr Davidson) could wire the money for his bail, and have him liberated. Hon Sheriff Osborne said he would impose no penalty, but would hand the accused over to the military escort.

Another War Victim.

Though no official intimation has yet been received, it would appear that, Cellardyke has another to add to its already long list of natives who have made the supreme sacrifice. Mrs John Wilson. Shore Street, recently sent a letter to her son, Sergt Geo. Wilson, of a Canadian contingent located “somewhere in France,” and this has been returned from the General Post Office, London, with the bald announce-1 men on it, “Killed in action; location un-, known.” It must be admitted that this, is a very unfeeling way in which to intimate such a sad event, and Mrs Wilson is naturally very much upset, and in a state of suspense awaiting further particulars It would seem that Sergt. Wilson was in the same company of the contingent as Private Alex. Moncrieff (Doig), also a Cellardyke lad, whose death was announced last week, and it is presumed that both were killed in the same action Sergt. Wilson, who was 47 years of age and unmarried, served his apprenticeship as a plumber and tinsmith with Messrs Gray & Pringle, Anstruther, and went to Canada some three years ago. He was getting on well there, and was among the first of the Canadian contingents to enlist after the outbreak of war. He was an exceptionally fine young fellow, and before proceeding abroad was an enthusiastic local Volunteer. He was also a member of the Chalmers’ Memorial Church, and the, second son of Mr John Wilson, fisherman, who has other two sons in the Colours, both on patrol service, John in the Dardanelles and David off the coast of Ireland. Deep sympathy is felt with the bereaved family, and it is to be hoped that more definite information will soon reach them.

1917

SOCKS, TO THE BLACK WATCH.

Mrs Munro. The Schoolhouse, has received the following letter in acknowledgment of what has been sent by the Women’s Work Party of Cellardyke:

“DEAR MADAM.

We received today three boxes containing 317 pairs of socks addressed to Captain Munro. As Captain Munro is at present away from the Battalion, the boxes were opened, and the socks will be distributed throughout the Battalion. For this magnificent gift we beg to convey to yourself and those who so kindly helped the sincere thanks of all ranks. Such splendid socks are always greatly appreciated. Assuring you of our deep gratitude.—Yours faithfully, H. Sutherland, Lt. Col.. Commanding Black Watch.” His many friends in the district will regret to learn that Captain Munro has been very ill with trench fever, and is at present undergoing treatment in a hospital at Le Treport. France.

In all 503 pairs of socks and a number of mufflers, etc.. have been sent out from Cellardyke  since February…

A Gordon Highlander who was intimately associated with Cellardyke has made the supreme sacrifice, in the great push in France  his wife having received a letter on Monday from the chaplain (Rev. Malcolm’ Macleod), stating that her husband. Private Andrew Hallcrow, was killed in action on 10th inst. In the letter it is stated further that “his, remains were buried with some of his comrades in a spot which they had gained from the enemy. Your husband was a good and faithful soldier, and served the cause for which we fight well. His supreme sacrifice was not all in vain, but it is very hard, and I pray for you in your great loss and loneliness. May the Lord comfort and help you. I am sure that He will He promised.”

Private Hallcrow was a native of Sandwick. Shetland, and was a cooper to trade. He was working at his occupation in Aberdeen when the war broke out, and enlisted at once in the Gordons, a regiment that has been very severely hit in the great campaign. He was only about 27 years of age, and was greatly respected for his exemplary disposition. He leaves a widow and son, for whom much sympathy is felt in their bereavement. Mrs Hallcrow, now resides with her mother, Mr. Pattie. John Street.

1919

SELLING NEW BREAD.

Cellardyke Baker Fined £7.

A plea of guilty was tendered in Cupar 1 Sheriff Court this afternoon on behalf of Alexander Neilson, master baker, Cellardyke, who was charged with having sold a 2-lb. loaf that had not been baked 12 hours previously.

Mr J. K. Tasker, his agent, said Mr Neilson was doing just as everybody else was doing – selling new bread. He believed in Dundee and elsewhere it was the common ‘ practice to sell new bread. Hon. Sheriff Osborne said the regulations were still in force, and heavy fines and been inflicted quite recently. He could not accept a plea of ignorance. The sentence could be a fine of £7, or thirty days’ imprisonment.

(I thought this was a strange law and looked it up – here’s what I found- )

During the First World War, British food supplies were affected by a number of factors: poor harvests at home and abroad; reduced food imports as a result of enemy action; and decreased manpower due to workforces being siphoned off by the military. By May 1917, the Minister for Food warned the Cabinet that feeding the country after September would be ‘a difficult problem’.

Action needed to be taken. With wheat and other cereals suffering from acute shortages, the supply of bread, a nationwide staple, was of specific concern. The government launched a propaganda campaign encouraging bakers and housewives to use potatoes to bulk out their loaves and commanded that commercial bakers could only use ‘standard flour’, a mix that contained more of the grain that, during peacetime, would usually be discarded.

As a further measure, the Ministry of Food and wider government made attempts to influence consumption, as well as production, by introducing the Bread Order in 1917. This regulation made it illegal to sell bread until 12 hours after it had been baked. According to The Times, the government realised that stale bread was ‘more nutritious’ and would be consumed 5% less than fresh bread.

1915

FORENOON SERVICE AT KILRENNY CHURCH. SCENES IN BUILDING AT PRESBYTERY’S INQUIRY.

Animated scenes were witnessed in the Parish Church of Kilrenny yesterday, when the Presbytery of St Andrews visited the church and conferred with the parishioners the ” vexed question ” of the services held in the church

At Kilrenny the minister (the Rev. George S. Anderson) attends at the church at the usual hour of forenoon service, and his contention is that no one attends. The only service of the day at Kilrenny is held at two o’clock in the afternoon. Before the congregational conference the Presbytery conferred with the minister and the Kirk Session in private. At the parishioners meeting the Presbytery desired to know why their injunction of two years ago calling upon the minister and Session to hold a forenoon service had not been complied with.

About one hundred parishioners were present, ladies predominating, the male members, mostly fishermen, being away from the district.

“A Piece of Nonsense.”

The Rev. John Turnbull, St Monans, moved that they proceed to inquire individually at any members who cared to make statements in regard to the situation.

The Rev. Dr Baxter said that that was absolutely impracticable, and a piece nonsense. .

The Rev. John Turnbull —I rise to speak.

Rev. Dr Baxter—You have no right to speak. (Laughter.)

The Rev. Mr Turnbull’s motion was carried.

The Rev. Mr Murray—The position amounts to this—Do you prefer an afternoon to a morning service? (Cries of “Yes,” and dissension from two ladies, one of whom exclaimed, ” The minister told not to come in the forenoon.”)

The Moderator —This most important. We should have the statement of these ladies on oath. Mrs Jane Rodger, East Pitkerrie, was then put on oath, and declared that on several occasions she turned up to the morning service. She had been a member of the church for sixteen years.

Did Not Want a Service.

Following on one of the occasions on which she was present at the forenoon service, the minister came to her house and asked not to come in the forenoon. He said that the Cellardyke folks did not want a service in the forenoon, they had their houses to tidy up, and the dinner to prepare. (Uproar.)

The Moderator —This disgraceful conduct must cease. Mrs Rodger, continuing, said the manner which Mr Anderson conducted the fore noon services last summer was such that it was impossible for her follow him.

Mrs Janet Wilson alleged that she had seen the Rev. Mr Anderson turn people away from the church door. These people, she said, had come to attend the forenoon service.

Miss Robina Reid, (George Street) who was also put oath, said she was member of the choir, and after the Presbytery’s injunction to hold a forenoon service Mr Anderson had written to her and the other members of the choir re questing them to attend. The church precentor, Mr Reid, corroborated the statement of Miss Reid.

The Rev. Dr Baxter moved that they put the question to each of the parishioners which of the services they preferred.

The Rev. Dr Playfair, St Andrews, moved that that be not done, and his motion was carried. . ,

The Rev. Dr Baxter asked that his strong dissent be recorded

The Moderator then pronounced the benediction. Angry scenes ensued, and for a time the parishioners refused to leave the church.

The members of Presbytery retired, and deliberated in private.

KILRENNY FOLKS DECLARE THAT THE MINISTER REQUESTED THEM Not To Attend the Forenoon Service. (BY OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.)

“Kilrenny’s makin’ a braw name for itself, but maybe we’ll get things put richt noo —an’ no’ afore time.”

The speaker was one of Kilrenny’s oldest inhabitants, with whom discussed the “kirk or kail” question within the shadow the picturesque old church, with its little God’s acre, where lie the sturdy ancestors of the present villagers.

His remark suggested that the present situation in regard to the vexed question of ” forenoon or n0 forenoon” service was the sequel to long-standing complaint, and my inquiries in that direction brought to light many events having a direct bearing upon the question now being so eagerly debated. The aged parishioner with whom I conversed has followed the events in the history of the Auld Kirk, and his retentive memory helped considerably in probing the deadlock which has provoked so much comment far beyond the bounds of the parish.

Discontent at Its Height.

While the harmony in the congregation has never been disturbed to such extent as at the present moment, it is quite evident that discontent has been prevalent for a long time. Now it seems to have reached its height, and, as I have pointed out, only the most tactful and masterly handling of this complicated problem will prevent what will undoubtedly prove most unfortunate and vexatious disturbance of church activity in a parish noted for the zealousness of its church attenders.

The congregation just now is unquestionably divided, and he will indeed be a diplomat of the first rank who can effect a real amicable and lasting settlement between them.

Will the Presbytery tackle the task? Much downright hard thinking will have to be done, and I venture to suggest that a most important duty for those charged with the work will be to visit Kilrenny, as have done, and take pains to become acquainted with the undercurrent of affairs. Evidence of great value is to be had, although there is 0n the part of the villagers a disinclination to stand in splendid isolation as the guide of the Presbytery. Already the evidence of two of the members is in possession of the Presbytery, but neither of the statements made on oath 0n the occasion of the Presbyterial visitation withdrew the veil upon many important points in this regrettable dispute.

Five Years Absent from Church.

For example, the head of one household declared that he has not set foot in the church for the last five years although he is, to the best of his belief, still a member the church, in respect that has’ not ” lifted his lines,” nor has he, he says, been interrogated to the reason for his prolonged absence from the church in which up to that point he had sat all his days.

A Presbyterial investigation of the whole facts of the case at Kilrenny is desired by the members, and in justice to all parties would most assuredly be a wise step.

The handling of the deadlock must of necessity be a patient and careful undertaking, for it will be found that opinions in Kilrenny are rock-like in their fixity. And the breach widens with time.

Cross-Currents.

An outwardly calm and contented parish, Kilrenny surprises the stranger with its crosscurrents and discontent, “for ‘ and “against” aspect is everywhere to be encountered, and indeed so keen has the controversy become that the war has been completely shelved—save for a passing reference to the latest development in the great conflict in which, by the way, many sons of the parish are playing a noble part.

“Thrums” for its “window” is quite outdone in Kilrenny. Those douce folks attending the forenoon service are conscious of their progress to kirk being observed from cover of a curtain, and this consciousness is made all the more leal from the knowledge that the “afternoon section” is subjected to same scrutiny some two and a half hours later. This will afford some idea of the intense interest being manifested in the “kirk or kail ” question.

An Element of Comedy.

To the outsider there is an element of comedy in the dispute. To hark back to the history of few years ago, it should explained, to meet the requirements of this scattered parish a quoad sacra church was established in Cellardyke, the object in view being to cater to the wants the members residing in that section of the parish.

But how has the plan operated’ Certainly not in accord with the result anticipated its promoters. Every Sunday, for the afternoon service be it noted, a large number of the church-going walk to Kilrenny to worship in the “auld kirk” as though the newer edifice at their own doors was non-existent. And, on the other hand, not a few of the Kilrenny folks find their way either to Cellardyke or Anstruther.

That is a situation which is, to say the ‘least of it, a bit of a puzzle. And just why it should be  so must, the villagers say, be investigated by the Presbytery if church affairs in the parish are to be put upon a satisfactory footing. As matters stand at present, they are certainly quite contrary to what was expected when the desire for quoad sacra from Kilrenny was granted.

“Tae bide in Kilrenny and gang tae worship in Cellardyke,” said a villager to me, “and bide in Cellardyke and gang Kilrenny tae worship is a queer wey o’ things, but nae doot a’body has their reason.” This is the state of affairs, and certainly gives much food for reflection, even allowing for the sentimental aspect of attachment to the auld kirk of Kilrenny.

The Minister’s Mission.

Why is it that the forenoon service at Kilkenny is so sparsely attended? I set myself to find answer to this question, and travelling to East Pitkerrie, outlying part of the parish, interviewed Mrs Jane Rodger, who with her husband is a member of the church.

Mrs Rodger, at the Presbyterial visit to the congregation, was put on oath, and made statement in which she declared that the Rev. George S. Anderson, the minister at Kilrenny, had called upon her and suggested that she should not come the forenoon service.

“Do you prefer forenoon service?” I asked her.

“Well,” she replied, “I have always been accustomed to it, and when I knew that the church was open for one I attended.”

“How often did you attend?”

“Four or five times. I took the children with me, and they remained for the Sabbath School. ” I think was after the fifth Sunday that Mr Anderson called. After chatting with my husband he- rose, and just as he was leaving said to me, ‘ Oh, Mrs Rodger, I would prefer that you would not come to the forenoon service. You know the Cellardyke folks do not want a service in the forenoon, as they have their houses to tidy and the dinner to prepare.

Kail and Kirk.

“That was all, but I understood from his remarks that it was plain hint that he did not want to have forenoon service.”

‘”Can you manage to tidy your house and prepare the kail?”

“Oh, yes; quite easily. I thought it was a strange remark for a minister to make, generally they are very anxious to encourage people to come to church. After that I remained away from the forenoon service, and after what happened at the meeting last week I do not intend to go back again. What I told the Presbytery was the truth, and nothing but the truth. I made the statement of my own free will, and the words were not put into my mouth.

” Was the forenoon service well attended?”

“No. On one occasion there were thirteen bairns and seven grown-up folks, and on other Sundays there weren’t so many. One Sunday I remember the congregation comprised the minister’s wife and housekeeper and two visitors. There seemed to be a difference between the forenoon service and that of the afternoon, and, to tell the truth, the experience one Sunday didn’t leave me with any great desire to go back. I, all events, felt unsatisfied somehow, and you must bear mind that Mr Anderson is, as a general rule, a very able arid interesting preacher. However, I continued to go until I was requested to stay away.

“Bell for the Empty Kirk.”

After leaving East Pitkerrie I called at a house in Kilrenny, where I gleaned information which was not volunteered to the Presbytery. Once more it was put me that Mr Anderson had dissuaded people from attending the forenoon service.

“What the minister said to me,” said the party interviewed, “was, ‘I know you’ll hear the bell ringing, but you need not come out to church, as there won’t be anyone there.’

‘ Will you be there?’ I asked, and he replied, ‘Oh, yes; but nobody else comes.’

” It struck me being strange well as amusing that a minister should go out of his way to discourage attendance at church.

” As the result of that conversation the family now attend church in Anstruther. The Kilrenny bell tolled every forenoon, and we remark to one another, ‘ There’s the bell for the empty kirk.’ “

The attitude of those absenting themselves from Kilrenny Church is summed up in this way, ” If we’re not wanted at the forenoon service, then we’ll stay away altogether.” This will show how seriously many of the villagers have taken  the matter to heart.

A Feathered ” Orchestra.”

Kilrenny Church would delight the eye of the artist viewing it from the brow of the hill. It’s elevated site sets it out in relief against rural scenery, and the pigeons which flutter around where once a clock recorded the passing hour —rude Boreas some years ago played havoc with the ” nock,” and its repair and reinstatement have been indefinitely postponed—add a pleasing note to , picturesque scene.

These self-same pigeons frequently take it upon themselves to supply accompaniment to the singing, but the unromantic beadle —is a beadle ever romantic? —does not see the beauty of this impromptu orchestral effort, and leaving his seat to put a check on the zeal of the feathered congregation, his vigorous ‘ shoo ‘ the signal for a regular uproar up where the ‘ dim religious light’ battles with the darkness. Forenoon or afternoon, it is all the same with the pigeons; the church is their shelter, their home, and from it not a regiment of beadles will alienate them. A sermon in contentment and complete harmony in themselves!

Minister Calls For a Vote.

At the service on Sunday the minister (the Rev. George S. Anderson) requested those of his congregation who desired a forenoon service to stand. Only one did so. On a similar request being made with regard to an afternoon service those present again showed their unanimity by rising  as one man. Excluding children. 190 stood up in favour of the present afternoon service, while only one voted in favour of a forenoon diet.

1910

NO FURTHER CONCESSIONS. A deputation of Scottish fishermen had an in interview with Mr Tennant, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade, in London on Thursday with reference to the operation of the new regulations issued by the Department relating to certificates for skippers of fishing boats. The districts represented were Cellardyke, Anstruther, Pittenweem, the Firth of Forth, and the Moray Firth. The deputation was introduced Mr Duncan Miller, M.P., and accompanied by Mr Sutherland, M.P.; Captain Waring, M.P.; Mr Leicester Harmsworth, M.P.; and Mr Munro, M.P.

The regulation to which the members of the deputation directed special attention was the following—A fisherman who has served as skipper or second hand for a year’s fishing in a steam sailing liner or drifter of tons gross and upwards, and can produce evidence as to his genera good conduct, may be granted authority to act skipper or second hand on liners or drifters. For the purpose of obtaining an authority only one man can recognised as skipper and one second hand on each liner or drifter during any particular fishing year.

It was urged by the spokesmen of the deputation that the second hand on board fishing vessels had never been recognised by the Scottish fishermen. The crew of a fishing vessel which had sailed for a season or two stood on equal terms, and were considered equally capable of taking charge of a liner or drifter if the skipper was disabled. The concession they asked the Board of Trade to grant was that a second hand on a fishing boat should not be recognised as having any higher authority than any other member of the crew with the same experience. It was further pointed out that, if a skipper should happen to sell out his share a fishing vessel to the second hand, the latter was not granted an authority to act as skipper without going for an examination. This was held to be great hardship to many experienced fishermen who might not have the necessary education to pass the examination, but who were perfectly well qualified to navigate a vessel

The views of the deputation were expressed by Skipper Murray of Cellardyke; Mr J. Ogilvie, Pittenweem; and James McNaughton, of the Moray Firth Fishermen’s Association, and others.

Mr Tennant, in reply, said the anxiety of the Board of Trade was to safeguard the fishing industry, stimulate it, and foster its interests to the best of their ability. He believed the action which had been taken by the Department would be of lasting benefit to the whole of the marine interests of this country. Safety was the main consideration which they had in view the regulations which had been issued by the Board of Trade.

There had been one or two misconceptions with regard to the effect of these regulations. With the desire of meeting the fishermen in the fairest possible spirit, the Board had made very considerable concessions, and very large alterations in the regulations. With regard to second hands, they had made concession to the effect that man who had been acting in that capacity could come up for examination after he had served six months in a capacity subordinate to the skipper. They had relaxed that regulation further, and said that those men who had five years’ service and who were over 21 years of age .should be allowed come up for the examination at any time after the five years. The examination was of the simplest kind, and should have no terrors for men so well educated as their own countrymen were. The examinations were such, he believed, they could pass with ease. The “authority,” which was granted by the Board of Trade, was authority for a man to act in the capacity in which he had been acting. They could not expect the Board to give a man authority to act in a capacity in which he had not been acting. It was not possible demand to make that they should give authority to act as skipper to a man who had only acted in subordinate capacity. If he had acted in the capacity of skipper the position was changed at once, and the regulation provided that a man who had acted skipper and who passed the simple examination would be entitled to an authority from the Board of Trade. ….

BRIDE’S TRAGIC DEATH, sad story of the tragic fate of a bride elect comes from Cellardyke. Early yesterday morning a young woman, Elizabeth Thompson, 31 years of age, left her bed her father’s house, and, wrapping some clothes around her, walked the beach, and was later found drowned. On the family rising she was missed, and her body was found some hours afterwards. She was to have been married on Friday, and all the preparations had been made. On Monday she was busy making arrangements for the wedding, and was in spirits. No reason can be assigned for the act.

1911

MOTOR ENGINES IN FISHING BOATS. Year by year the chance of the sailing drifter in the herring fishing has decreased. They have been cut out by the steam liners, so that only the winter herring fishing has been left to them. In no business at the present day can a living be made upon an uncertain harvest of a few months in twelve. It pays no one for valuable boats to be laid up for the greeter portion of the year. It has long been recognised that the oil engine, or as more popularly described “the Motor” would eventually give these sailing boats a new lease of life. Anstruther has seen several attempts at applying the oil engine or motor to the sailing drifter, and owing to the very qualified success obtained a few years since the fishermen have been somewhat backward in trying the more recent engines, which undoubtedly have developed in a marvellous manner. The fact that something had to be done, and the success attained at other ports seem to have at last stirred and awakened the Anstruther and Cellardyke fishermen to realise the capabilities of the motor, and that by its adoption the sailing drifter need no longer play second fiddle to the steam drifter, at least so far as sharing out money is concerned. The Sunbeam, ML.16 takes the lead at Anstruther, as the first boat to be fitted with the modern motor, and to Messrs R. & W. Anderson of Cellardyke, as owners of the boat, belong the credit and enterprise of taking a step that will have an immense effect on the well-being and future of Anstruther as a fishing port.

A first run with the motor was made with their boat on Thursday, which partook somewhat of the nature of a holiday excursion. It says much for the motor that although it had been turned round for the first time for half an hour only the previous day, a good run was made to the May Island and back, with what must have been a record in number of passengers. By a misunderstanding the oil fuel supplied to run upon was of a class that had not been previously used with the engine. Indeed up to a year or so ago, such oil was considered quite unsuitable for the motor. In several respects it required different adjustments to the American and Russian oil usually used. Owing to this the full power of the engine was not available. To those who were not aware of the circumstance this was disappointing, while on the other hand it demonstrated very clearly that it took a 1 lot disarrange the motor’s digestion, and that whatever you gave it in the shape of oil it would make the best of it. On Friday another run was made with a strong wind blowing, and s bit of a sea running, in fact the movement was sufficient for one man who boasted of being a blue water sailer succumbing, and being a sadder and for the time a less talkative man. It was a day to thoroughly test the motor, and as the skipper said just out of harbour he was going to do it. The motor came through in flying colours, the boat travelling at a speed that ensured it being well up to the guarantee of 7 ¼  knots in smooth water. In fact notwithstanding the sea and wind and the heavy use of the rudder, the speed of the boat was very much over that of the previous day in a quiet sea; and some of the crew were heard to say, “As fast again.” it was made evident that when the Scotch oils particular requirement were known, and the engine adjusted accordingly, there would be no difficulty in using this oil. The Sunbeam being a very heavy, very full fore, and in fact a bad boat to drive, the trial must be considered eminently satisfactory.

The engine, which is a “Parsons’ Fisherman” with the machinery was supplied and fitted by P. E. Weyman of Pilgrim House, Newcastle on Tyne, who first introduced the motor to Eyemouth boats, and who has probably put in the majority of motors in the east coast drifters so far. It may be of interest to say that the Annie Mearns of Montrose recently fitted with a similar motor made the journey in a heavy sea and wind from Blyth to Montrose at an average speed of over 7 miles as taken by the log and confirmed by the distance, the course being outside the Farne Islands, it being too rough to go inside. Two more Cellardyke boats are being fitted with the same motor, the Harvest Home and Jasper.

1912

On Saturday afternoon a test was made of the new pipes recently laid between Balmonth reservoir, and the foot of the March. All seemed to go well at first, but on Sunday forenoon a burst occurred at the top of the March, near the St Andrews road, which occasioned a considerable flooding in the March ground and surrounding fields. Fortunately, the burst was soon discovered, and the supply screwed off at the reservoir.

1913

YARMOUTH COLLISION CASE. Captain A- Wood. J.P., nautical assessor in the Technical College, Dundee, has just issued his decision collision case off Yarmouth on 29th October, 1912, between two Cellardyke drifters, Carmi III and Guerdon, which were insured in the same company. Both vessels claimed for loss of fishing, and the company offering £135 lie money, left the two skippers to settle who was at fault in the collision. To determine this, the skippers agreed to refer the case to Captain Wood, who after hearing evidence, found that the Guerdon alone was blame for the collision.

1914

At a meeting of Kilrenny School Board last night, a letter was read from Mr Barbour, Headmaster of Cellardyke School, resigning his position, owing to the operation of the age limit. Mr Barbour has been in Cellardyke School for 36 years

Addressing the annual meeting the Cellardyke branch East Coast Fisheries Association on Saturday Mr. Bertram. Central hon, secretary, severely criticised the fishery authorities’ for spending so much on what was called scientific research. They had spent £150,000 on scientific research, and a greater farce one never heard of. Such research might be an educative force for those engaged in it, but it did absolutely nothing to promote the interests of the fishermen. There were too many scientists on the Fishery Board and too few practical men. During the past ten years the number of fishermen in Scotland had decreased by about 7000, and, in face of that, scientific research was of mighty little use. What they required was not scientific research, but definite legislation to protect the vital interests of the fishermen.

1900

RESIGNATION OF THE PARISH CHURCH ORGANIST.—Mr Pattison, the organist of the Parish Church, has sent in his resignation on account of want of time to attend the practisings. A successor is being advertised for.

The measles continue to spread, and a number of new cases have broken out this week. Kilrenny School was closed for a week on Friday, the attendance having been affected to a slight extent by the epidemic. So far there has only been one fatal case in Cellardyke, one little girl having died last week with it.

Last Friday evening, while a young boy, the only son of Mr Downey, George Street, was playing at the harbour, be fell over the pier on to the concrete. He seems to have been unconscious for some time before he was discovered. On being taken home, and medical assistance procured, it was found that he had sustained concussion of the brain, but no outward wound. He remained unconscious for some time, but gradually recovered, and is now all right again.

The annual social meeting of those attending the bible class and prayer meeting in connection with the Parish Church, took place on Thursday evening of last week in the Town Hall. There was a very large gathering present, the hall being well filled. After an excellent tea, the Rev. James Ray delivered a short address, in which he stated that the subjects of study at the bible clams meetings during the winter were the books of Esther, Ruth, and Jonah, and that a pleasing feature of the session was the presence of a larger number of the young men of the congregation than they had had for some years back. The busy winter fishing and other causes had latterly hurt the attendance at the prayer meeting, but on the whole he had great reason to be thankful, and his earnest prayer was that God would bless his labours among them. Thereafter a long programme was proceeded with. The bible class choir, under the able leadership of Mr John Hepburn, rendered several part songs with much taste and fine expression.

1901

The annual Licensing Court was held on Tuesday at 11 o’clock forenoon—Provost Thomson and Bailie Butters presiding. The Clerk read a hates from Inspector Maiden, St Andrews, reporting that he had made a careful inspection of the licensed premises in the burgh. Those of Mrs Gardiner, John Street, consist of a dwelling house of 2 rooms about 12 feet square, with a fixed bed in each room, and a washing house and cellar underneath, which could be reached by a hatch door in one of the rooms and by a trap door from the lobby. He found no groceries, and Mrs Gardiner informed him that she had not kept any groceries for several years. The excisable liquors in the house comprised 7 pints of porter, 12 pints of beer, several bottles of whisky, and a jar containing a small quantity of whisky. A son and daughter reside with her. The continuing of this license when no pretence was made to carry on the business of a grocer or general dealer called for the serious consideration of the Magistrates.

Mrs Gardiner was asked what she had to say to the remarks of the Inspector, and replied that she did not keep groceries, and lived in the house where she sold her liquor.

The Provost —The Magistrates, including Bailie Williamson, who is unable to be present, have considered this report, and are unanimous in deciding that unless you make such alterations on your house as will meet the requirements of the Court, and also keep groceries, your license will be withdrawn.

Mrs Gardiner said it was as old house, and was not worth repairing. She had been in it 6 years, and no alteration made in that time.

The Provost- It is quite out of place to have a dwelling house used as licensed premises, and it is for you to say whether you are to agree to make the necessary alterations.

Bailie Butters – l suppose we cannot grant the license to be used as a dwelling house at the same time as a licensed house.

The Provost – No, it must be pure and simple a shop where the business is carried on. The dwelling house may be above, but you cannot occupy the premises used as a place of business as a dwelling house. It becomes a question whether the house is to be repaired or her license renewed.

Bailie Butters – She would require to gut out the place downstairs, and fit is up in a modern style. As Mrs Gardiner said she could not alter her premises and would not keep groceries the license was withdrawn.

She then left the Court, but shortly afterwards returned and said she could make arrangements for living upstairs, but she could not make any alterations or keep groceries.

Bailie Butters – Without the alterations the premises would not be suitable.

The Provost— In addition you must keep groceries. As she would not make this promise, the Magistrates adhered to their decision. The other four licenses, one public house and three licensed grocers, were renewed, the report of the Inspector being of a very satisfactory character.

1902

The boys of this Company were dismissed for the session on Tuesday night. It was decided that the annual trip would take place next month if forty or more boys expressed their willingness to attend. There are 49 boys on the roll and on Tuesday night 22 were present.

1903

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that any DOGS found straying in Fowler’ Park, Back of Cellardyke, will be SHOT. This has been rendered absolutely necessary on account of Sheep having been worried.

1905

RUN DOWN BY A GUNBOAT.

INQUIRY INTO FIFE FISHERS’ DEATHS.

CELLARDYKE AND CRAIL MEN DROWNED. Sheriff Armour and jury at Cupar to-day heard evidence in two fatal accident inquiries, one on the sinking of a fishing boat in the North Sea by H.M.S. Speedwell. This was the first case, and the evidence led showed that Robert Smith, fisherman, 43 James Street, Cellardyke, Anstruther, while engaged fishing miles east of Crail in the boat Cornucopia, of Cellardyke, about four o’clock the morning of Saturday, February, was accidentally drowned in consequence of the boat having been run into and sunk by His Majesty’s ship Speedwell. The second inquiry was connection with the death Andrew Cunningham, junior, fisherman, 34 Shoregate, Crail, who was accidentally drowned while fishing on board the fishing boat Ten Brothers, of Crail, the Firth of Forth, half a mile from the harbour at Crail. He was accidentally washed overboard by a wave which passed over the boat. In both cases formal verdicts were returned.

1906

Major Scott Davidson of Cairnie inspected the Cellardyke Boys Brigade on Friday night last week, and was made the recipient of a silver cigarette case by the Brigade for the kindness be had shown them.

Mr John Mackay, Cellardyke, has been appointed skipper of the motor boat Pioneer, which is again been fitted out for the herring fishing on the west coast at Barra, to which she is to sail at the beginning of next month.

FOR Sale, the YAWL, 18 feet long, the Glanner, lying on Slip at Cellardyke Harbour. The Boat and Fittings are all in good order. Apply to ROBIRT WEBSTER 34 Rodger Street, Cellardyke.

1907

The trial trip of the steam drifter The Maggies, belonging to the Messrs Gardner Cellardyke, took place from Anstruther on Monday afternoon when a crowd of 200 people had sail round the May Island and Bass Rock. The drifter maintained speed of ten knots, and the owners were highly delighted with her.

Launch at Anstruther.- Mr Miller yesterday afternoon launched a steam drifter to the order Skipper George Anderson, Cellardyke. This is the fifth vessel launched since last August, and another three are to be built. The drifter was named the Integrity by a niece of the owner. The dimensions are the same as the others – 85 feet length, 18 feet beam, and depth of hold 9 feet. The engines are being made by Messrs Cran, Leith.

The annual treat of the old people of the town took place in the Town Hall on Saturday night, there being a very large attendance. The gathering was under the auspices of five Associations, the Young Men’s Christian Association, Gospel Temperance, Good Templars, and the Christian Endeavours of the Parish and Baptist Church.

1909

At North Shields on Monday, the Smiths’ Dock Co., Ltd., launched a steel drifter to the order of John Gardner (Ritchie), Cellardyke. The drifter which is built to 100 A1 at Lloyds, is 82 ft. keel, by 18 ft. 6 ins. beam, and 9 ft. 6 ins. moulded depth. She is designed for the line and herring fishings, and is fitted up with all the latest improvements. The boat presents a handsome model, and, on leaving the slip, was gracefully christened the “Lily and Maggie ” by Miss Elsie Harvey, adopted daughter of Mr and Mrs Arthur M. Reid, North Shields. The drifter is expected to be engined and ready for sea in about ten days’ time.

1935

ANCHORED AT MAY ISLAND

Port Seton Skippers Fined

FATHER AND SON CHARGED

The trial took place at Cupar Sheriff Court yesterday of Thomas Donaldson , skipper of the motor fishing boat Cockenzie Lass , and Thomas Donaldson , jun ., his son , skipper of the Mary , both residing at 9 Seton Place , Port Seton , They were charged that between 7 . 30 p.m. and 9.45 p.m., on March 7, about one hundred yards east of May Island , being within the exclusive fishery limits and on ground where net fishing was actually going on ( 1 ) They anchored their boats ; ( 2 ) placed the boats in such a way as to interfere with fishermen who had already commenced their operations and caused damage to the herring drift nets of the boat Winaway in the charge of John Muir Gourlay fisherman , 14 East Forth Street , Cellardyke; ( 3 ) the boats , being under 150 feet in length and anchored , they failed to exhibit the regulation white lights visible all around the horizon for a distance of one mile . Evidence was led at length and in the course of the examination of the first witness the Fiscal dropped the third charge. The first charge was found proved and each accused was fined £3. The Sheriff said the second charge involved a conflict of evidence as to the cause of the damage to the nets, and had not been proved.

DRIFTED TOWARDS RING-NET BOATS

Gourlay, in evidence, said he was part owner and skipper of the Winaway. He had shot his herring nets, and drifted towards the ring-net boats. He came so close to them that he had to shout, “Get ahead out of our way, and let us haul in our nets.” He thought the ring-net boats were working, and he called out, “You know you can’t ring there when we are hauling our nets.” One of the ring-net boats was anchored down and the other boat was made fast to it. Witness’s nets were fouled by the anchor rope. He cried to the ring-net boat to slip their anchor, and they replied, “If we slip it we will lose it.” “Better lose your anchor than destroy my nets” he said.

The ring-net boats were showing navigation lights. He had 12 nets destroyed, costing £11, 7s. 6d. Captain J. Wright, Fishery Board officer, said the Cockenzie Lass and the Mary had no right to be anchored where they were.

Cross-examined, he said he would not like to say that there was a-feud between ring and drift-net fishermen. There was certainly a lot of feeling between them, and on the 16th of next month an inquiry was to be held into the matter. He was certain the damages to the nets was done by the Cockenzie Lass and the Mary.

“TRESPASSING”

For the defence, Thomas Donaldson, sen ., said he heard the Winaway say , ” Wellspring, ahoy, you are tearing our nets .” The Wellspring replied, “You are tearing your nets yourself. They are fast to the ground. “The Wellspring lifted her anchor and the nets were round her anchor chain. If he had known that there were any drift-net boats about he would not have anchored. Cross-examined, he said he never had a net over that night. He never thought the Winaway’s nets were so close to the May Island. Most of the damage was done before the nets came to him. He put down his anchor in order to have a cup of tea, intending to start if anything were doing.

Sheriff Dudley Stuart-Did it ever occur to you that you were trespassing?—No. I thought it was anchorage ground there. Are drifters forbidden to fish there? Donaldson said he could not answer. Wm. Thomsonone of the crew of the Cockenzie Lass, said the nets came upon them “that quick that we could do nothing.” No damage was done to the nets by his boat’s anchor. Thomas Donaldson jun. said there were about 30 ring-net boats anchored at the-May that evening.

Sheriff Dudley Stuart, in announcing his decision, said he did not propose to take-any notice of the controversy between ring-net and drift net fishermen. ‘

(The start of the enquiry a few weeks later)

SEINE-NET FISHING INQUIRY FIFE SKIPPERS’ EVIDENCE

A public inquiry for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the byelaw; relating to the seine net fishing the Firth of Forth should be confirmed by the Secretary of State for Scotland was continued today in Parliament House, Edinburgh. The inquiry is conducted by Sheriff R. H. Maconochie, K.C. The case for the fishermen who support the byelaw is being conducted by Mr W. A. Murray, K.C., and Mr T. P. McDonaid, instructed by Alexander Morrison & QC, W.S., Edinburgh, and G. Martin Gray, solicitor, Aberdeen. The ring net fishermen, who object to the byelaw, are represented by Mr R. Morrison, advocate, instructed by Allan McNeil &- Sons, W.S., Edinburgh, and Mr David Chapel, solicitor, Arbroath. When the proceedings resumed to-day the courtroom was again well filled with fishermen.

William Watson, skipper of the motor boot Sunbeam, in examination, said he was fishing within three miles’ radius at Fife Ness last month. He put out anchor nets and went ashore. When he returned the following morning he found eight buoys left out of 23. The buoys were stabbed or cut. He said was quite possible for ring net fishers to keep clear of anchor nets during the night, as they had good enough lights to see the nets were there.

“Willful Damage.”

In his view the damage was wilfully and maliciously done.

David Smith, of Cellardyke, skipper of the Violet Star, said while the ring nets caught all sizes herring, the drift net caught only the mature herring. In his view was not possible for drift net fishing and ring net fishing to be carried on together without causing damage. If continued the result would be that the drift net fishing would be cleared out of the area.

The ring net boats fished only in fine weather, and then they caused a glut the market and prices came down.

Alexander Doig, Cellardyke, master of the motor boat Orion, his evidence stated that some of his anchor nets were damaged by ring-netters in the bay at the east end of Cellardyke. He lost. 18 nets, and it would take £40 to replace them. There was no doubt, he said, that the damage was done by ring-net fishermen who took off the buoys and allowed the nets to sink.

Skipper James Hughes, Pittenweem, of the motor boat Economy, said that ring nets usually fouled the drift-nets. Both types of nets were used in the Forth, and, as far he was aware, prosperous returns could not made on either.

1936

ANSTRUTHER HARBOUR RULE BROKEN FISHING SKIPPERS’ CONTRAVENTION

Entered Port Against Flag Signal

Fishing skippers from Fife and northern ports were charged before Sheriff Dudley Stuart to-day with breaches of the regulations pertaining to Anstruther Harbour.

The charges against them alleged that they failed to regulate their vessels (steam drifters and motor boats) which had a draft exceeding seven feet according to the direction of the Harbourmaster at Anstruther in bringing them into harbour on various dates in March at flood tide when the red flag was showing on the West Pier Lighthouse.

The prosecutions were under the Harbour Docks and Piers Clauses Act, 1847.

Accused were John Muir, West Forth Street, Cellardyke; Alexander Muir, John Street, Cellardyke; Joseph Wilson, James Street, Cellardyke; Charles Foreman, skipper of the Peterhead drifter Renown; George Anderson, skipper of the drifter Lemnos; George Herd, skipper of the steam drifter Cloverdale; John Sutherland, skipper of the motor fishing boat Benison, and James Brunton, James Street, Cellardyke. Pleas of not guilty were advanced on behalf of Alexander Muir and Charles Foreman and their cases were continued until 5th May.

Warning to Others.

Mr R. C. Davidson, solicitor, Cupar, who conducted the prosecutions on behalf of the Anstruther Harbour Commissioners, said that he did not ask for a severe penalty and suggested that the expenses should be paid the accused. Those prosecutions were being brought as a warning to others. The regulation was enable smaller boats to get into the harbour first, congestion occurring when all the boats tried to get in at once to land their catches.

Those who pleaded guilty were each ordered to pay 25s expenses. Similar charges against John Donaldson, skipper of the motor boat Daisy; Joseph Campbell, skipper of the motor boat Fountain; Andrew Anderson, Abbey Wall Road, Pittenweem, were withdrawn.

John Muir said that there were a lot of boats going before him, and not one of them was pulled up, and they thought that they were entitled to go in as well them. He said that at all the ports he had been if the flag was against them no boats could get in. He then asked if the harbourmaster had any right to “cry” in any boat. Joseph Wilson said they were all coming in with the red flag up. They did not know how they were working with the harbourmaster.

“Pushed Into Harbour.”

Then the case of Charles Foreman was called, his Lordship read a letter From foreman, which was to the effect that he was pushed into the harbour by the weight other boats. Accompanying this letter was medical certificate stating that Foreman was unfit to appear. His Lordship reminded the Court of his comments on such a certificate a week ago, and said “Again I say that this certificate is not according to form. It is not on soul and conscience.”

He treated the letter as a plea of not guilty, and continued the case until 5th May, along with Alexander Muir. On behalf of George Anderson, Mr David S. Shaw, solicitor, Cupar, said that all the other boats were doing it, and this man also did it. Mr Shaw commented that the man who broke the rule and got into the harbour first got his catch away early. It was the custom most harbours to hoist flags indicating the depth of the water in the harbour. The exception was at Anstruther, where only a red flag was hoisted when no boats could come in. A similar explanation was advanced Mr Shaw on behalf of Herd, and, referring to Sutherland’s case, Mr Shaw said that he was close into the harbour and did not have sufficient time to stop his boat.  He drew up at the harbour mouth, lay there for an hour, and watched other boats coming in against the red flag. He saw a man whom he was sure was the harbourmaster signalling him in, and then came into the harbour.

1939

The Boat Tavern had been up for sale in 1938 and in 1939 John Wilson Spirit dealer 16 John Street Cellardyke was granted the licence for the public house at 14 John Street.