The Cellardyke Echo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Richard Wemyss

Cellardyke

JANET ANDERSON KY. 1176                        Crew of seven

James Murray, owner & skipper               (26) Single

Andrew Stewart                                              (34) Left a widow with 4 children

William Bridges                                                (22) Left a widow and 1 child

James Walker                                                   (37) Left a widow and 4 children

Alexander Lothian                                          (54) Left a widow and 4 children

Hugh McKay                                                      (?)Single

William McKay                                                  (?)Single

VIGILANT KY. 1214                                           Crew of six

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

William Stewart                                               (46) Left a widow and 1 child

James McRuvie                                               (45) Left a widow and 3 children

James McRuvie,                                               (16) son of above Age 16

Alexander Doig                                                (32) Left a widow and 6 children

Leslie Brown                                                     (19) Single

St Monans

BEAUTIFUL STAR KY.1298                           Crew of 7

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

Robert Paterson,                                             (16) son of owner, single

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

Robert Paterson,                                             (18) son of William, single

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

James Allan,                                                      (18) nephew of James Paterson single

David Davidson,                                               (28) single, not related

THANE KY.1071                                                 Crew of 7

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

David Lowrie, Joint owner                          Left a widow and 5 children

Lawrence Fyall                                                 Brother of skipper, single,

Thomas Fyall                                                     Left a widow and one child

Thomas Lowrie,                                               Brother of David married only three months

Andrew Allan                                                    Single

Alexander Duncan                                          Left a widow and 3 children

QUEST KY.221

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

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

Robert Allan,                                                     son of David, single

Alexander Irvine                                              Left a widow and 7 children

Alexander Hutt                                                Single

Alexander Latto                                               Single

David Eason                                                       Single                  

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

Alexander McRuvie – 1875 – from the Excelsior

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

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

THE CELLARDYKE ECHO

1890

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

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

1892

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

Debating Society

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

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

1893

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

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

1894

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1885

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

1886

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

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

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

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

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

1887

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

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

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

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

1888

Return from Norfolk coast

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

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

1889

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1880

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

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

1881

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

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

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

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

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

1883

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

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

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

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

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

1884

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1905

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

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

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

1906

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

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

1907

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

1908

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

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

 Thomson Brothers, 61 to 63 James Street.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1900

Londonderry Sentinel

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

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

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

1901

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

1902

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

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

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

1903

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

1904

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

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1935

East Fife Orchestral Association, at a meeting in the reading-room of Cellardyke Town Hall, decided to resume practices, with Mr Alex. Reid as conductor.

FORMER COXSWAIN OF CELLARDYKE LIFEBOAT Death of Mr Wm. S. Sutherland

The death took place suddenly at his residence, 4 Harbour Head, Cellardyke, last night of Mr William S. Sutherland, who was a well-known and highly respected figure in the burgh. A native of Cellardyke, he was 67 years of age. In January, 1915, he joined the Royal Naval Reserve, and left the service in 1919. During the war he was chief skipper. He was skipper of the steam drifter Fifeness until his retiral in 1932. On 15th May, 1905, received a bronze medal from the Royal Humane Society for saving life from drowning, when he dived from the point of the east pier and rescued a boy. He was first coxswain of the local lifeboat for 30 years, from 1903 – 1933. When the present lifeboat’ was christened in 1933 he received certificate of service from the Duke of Montrose He was an enthusiastic member of the local British Legion Committee and also of the Royal Arch Chapter. He had no family, and is survived by his widow.

Excessive speed – Charged with driving a heavy lorry at a speed of 27mph on Dysart road on Tuesday 15^th Oct, Thomas Murray, a Cellardyke motor driver, was fined 7s 6d by Bailie Collyer at the Police Court on Monday.

EXCITING DAYS IN EAST FIFE

Fierce Party Rivalry Marked Earlier Election Campaigns By MRS A. R. ROWLANDS,

The General Election next week will have a significance unique in the annals of the Scottish East Coast fishing towns. For the first time each absent fisherman and fish-worker will have an opportunity of recording his or her vote on polling day. Scarcely had the date of the General Election been fixed ere steps were taken to safeguard the franchise of those voters at present engaged in the fishing industry at East Anglian ports. From the voters’ roll of each Scottish fishing town a list of absentees has been carefully compiled and respective English postal addresses noted. To each of those voters will be posted by the election agent for the district a ballot paper containing all necessary information, with instructions to fill up and return the paper to the polling station named on the paper.

Attention on the Fleet

At present the impending election is not causing much excitement. Attention is focussed on the fishing fleet at Yarmouth, and fishing bulletins issued by the B.B.C. have more interested audiences than the harangues of politicians. There no danger of slackness in polling, however, for the women folk vote conscientiously. Yet with the absence of men, zest is lacking from the campaign. Speakers have all their own way, for the sturdy hecklers are hauling nets somewhere in the North Sea. “Aye! it’s no like lang syne, when I was a laddie! Yon were the days!” The group of listeners sigh in unison and shake their heads reminiscently. There was a time when party feeling ran high and arguments terminated in a bout of fisticuffs to the huge delight of the laddies, who themselves voiced the opinions of their elders with more zeal than knowledge.

Sharp Division

The electorate was then sharply divided into two factions—Conservatives and Liberals. To be Liberal or Conservative then was to be a red-hot partisan of the candidate representing that particular party. While the electoral fight was raging bosom friends became bitter enemies, and next door neighbours saluted each other with violent vituperation. Even the bairns in the playground or the street advocated the causes of the rival candidates with the lusty rendering of election rhymes. ” Hurray, hurray, hurray, vote for Major Gray! Vote, vote, vote for the Major!” yelled the supporters of Major Anstruther Gray. ” We’ll have a little gun, and we’ll make the Tories run, And you’ll never see a Tory any more!” chanted their Liberal opponents. How the children enjoyed election times in those good old days !

Flour and Bad Eggs

He was a brave man who stood as Parliamentary candidate for the East Fife Burghs of 50 years ago. He might be conveyed from his ” carriage and pair ” to the entrance of the Town Hall under the escort of a strong body of police, but he was lucky if he escaped shower of flour or volley of rotten eggs from the hostile section of the bystanders. With loud war-cries, the candidates’ supporters would turn upon their opponents, and for a time the air would be thick with clouds of flour and peasemeal. Election time was then considered a great “ploy” by the lads who entered with hearty goodwill into all the fun and frolic. Many a band of lassies going “wast” to Anster has been chased up a close by figures so disguised with soot, flour and peasemeal as to be unrecognisable. Strong were the denials next day to the lassies’ accusations. ” Me! I wisna near East Green last nicht.” ” Aye, it wis jist you. I kent your tongue !” And the unwary youth who had broken the pact of silence was forced to “own up.”

The Bonfire

All the  “auld claes” were  “hauled oot” during the election, and these, torn and bedaubed, helped the bonfire on election night. The late H. T. Anstruther, so long member of Parliament for St Andrews and East Fife Burghs, was one of those charming personalities who command the liking and esteem of friend and foe alike. Whether it was because he was an Anstruther—and therefore ” ane o’ their ain folk,” we do not know; but ” Harry Anster ” always received an uproarious welcome whenever he visited his constituency. It is still recalled with pleasure at many a fireside how ” Harry’s ” small son mounted upon a diminutive pony, and bearing a placard ” Vote for Daddy,” smiled his way through the narrow cobbled streets of the fishing burghs to be greeted by many a kindly wife with that characteristic Dyker endearment, “Eh ma bonny duggie.” (“Duggie” is term of endearment applied to little boys.) The close of the poll witnessed many stirring scenes in older Cellardyke. The effigies of candidates and their principal supporters were carried in procession by the opposing factions ” through the toon “; and, unless the parties met and the effigies suffered in the ensuing conflict, these were burned before the doors of the persons whom the figures represented.

Official Ban One never-to-be-forgotten election day ended with the customary burning of effigies before Cellardyke Town but as the ” funeral pyre ” blazed up into the evening sky its flames caught the door of a nearby dwelling-house, and but for the prompt and efficient intervention of the bystanders, tragedy might have followed comedy, and a night’s riotous fun ended in disaster. Since that night effigy-burning has been strictly prohibited in the Royal Burghs, and the fervour and enthusiasm of election time has gradually subsided into a decorous and dignified recording of votes at the polling station. The only stir in ” the toon ” now is the hurrying to and fro of the many cars placed at the disposal of the voters, and the sole excitement is a drive one of these cars to the Town Hall. There is no longer that tedious waiting at the Town Hall until the votes are counted and the result of the poll is announced; we do not now receive the announcement until the following day. Instead of the loud ” hurrahs ” and prolonged ” booing ” which then followed “the reading out of the votes,” the women listeners now only gather their shawls a little closer round their throats, and as they face the biting winds which eddy round the corners of the steep, cobbled wynds, murmur to their companions, ” Ah, weel! he’s gotten in, and he’s said plenty. I hope he does weel, an’ keeps a’ his promises.” And so say we all.

1938

Town Planning Meeting Cupar

……………………. Mr Dow added that In Cellardyke, Anstruther Town Council demolished a number of old buildings and provided rockeries on the site. That was a form of town planning, and if that had not been done, Cellardyke would have had ruinous properties scattered all over the town……………….. SPECIAL HOUSES FOR FISHERMEN. Provost Carstairs, Anstruther, said that economically, geographically, and historically, the burghs along the coast formed a unit by itself. In his opinion, there was no likelihood a change taking place in the character of Anstruther with the exception of the fishing industry. Owing to the coming into operation of the Herring Fishing Act, under which new types of fishing vessels would be available, he looked forward to revival the activity of Anstruther as a fishing community. Owing to the special requirements of the fishing industry, a special type of house was required for fishermen, and, consequence, a special town planning scheme was necessary. Wives had to assist with the gear, and the houses had to be so constructed. to permit of the women attending to the ordinary housework and the fishermen’s gear. In reply to Mr Mitchell, Provost Carstairs said they had had no detailed scheme prepared for the five coastal burghs before them, although the question had been accepted on principle. He did not agree that the miners of West Fife would require specially constructed houses in the same way as the fishermen in East Fife.

1939

20-YEAR-OLD FIFE GIRL ELECTROCUTED IN HOUSE FOUND BY EMPLOYER HAD BEEN CARRYING ELECTRIC FIRE AND LAMP A 20-year-old Cellardyke girl, Miss Isabella M. Watson, daughter of Mr and Mrs David Watson, 30 Fowler Street, Cellardyke, was fatally electrocuted last night. She was service with Mrs Mackintosh, wife of Mr Hugh C. Mackintosh, solicitor, town clerk of Pittenweem and St Monance, at their residence at Chesterhill, West Anstruther. She had been in the dining-room preparing supper. When Mrs Mackintosh came downstairs she found the girl lying on the floor with an electric lamp in one hand and an electric fire the other. When Mrs Mackintosh bent down beside the girl, she sustained a- shock, her hand coming into contact with the girl. She immediately summoned Mackintosh, who kicked the electric fire aside and telephoned for Dr J. J. Wilson. Dr Wilson and Dr Mackay applied artificial respiration for two and a half hours and also administered injections to the heart, but the girl failed to rally. Miss Watson was well known in Anstruther, where she was highly popular. She had been the service of Mr and Mrs Mackintosh for about a year with a short break, which she had worked in Edinburgh, returning to her former position at Anstruther about two months ago

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1932

Cellardyke Model Yachting Trophy

Cellardyke Town Improvement Committee has received gift from Mr G. W. Wortley, of Falkirk. It is in the form of a beautiful silver cup to be named the Sherriff Cup, and to be used for model boat sailing. The condition laid down in connection with the Sherriff Cup competition is that boats must be made locally and sailed by the builder. Already many hands have been at work, and on the return of the fishermen from the south some exciting races are looked forward to. The new bathing and yachting pond at Cellardyke is now completed and is expected to largely patronised both as a model yachting pond in the winter and bathing pond in summer.

1933

SEQUEL TO “MYSTERY TOUR.” A fine of 20s was, at Cupar Sheriff Court on Tuesday, imposed upon Robert Stewart Forrester, general manager of the General Motor Carrying Co., Ltd., Kirkcaldy, for allowing a ‘mystery tour ’  to be run from Crail through portion of East Fife and back to Crail without an appropriate road service licence. Robert Small, ’bus driver. Park House, Anstruther, and Alexander Reekie Young, engineer, 42 West Forth Street, Cellardyke, the drivers of the ‘bus, were admonished. Mr R. W. Currie, solicitor, Dunfermline, said no one booked from St Andrews, the place from which they had a licence to run. Bookings had been made at Crail, and so it was run from there. To comply with the licence the ‘bus would have required to be run empty from Anstruther to St Andrews and from St Andrews to Crail before the passengers were picked up. After setting down the passengers again at Crail it should have returned to Anstruther via St Andrews. His Lordship—ls that why it is called mystery tour “.? (Laughter.)

1934

PETROL ABLAZE IN FIFE GARAGE £600 Damage at Cellardyke An alarming outbreak of fire occurred on Saturday night in the garage at Holmsgarth, Cellardyke, the residence of Mr Win. Myles. As result the garage and two cars were totally destroyed. The damage is estimated at £600. William Myles, jun., and his brother John had just returned to the garage with one of the cars after having it filled with petrol, when they discovered leak in the petrol tank. They were running off some of the petrol when the fumes became ignited and the car burst into flames. William Myles was severely burned about the hands and face, and required medical attention. In a few minutes both cars were involved in the blaze, which rapidly spread to the roof of the garage. The local fire brigade was quickly on the scene, and succeeded in extinguishing the fire before the arrival of the St Andrews Brigade. The roof of the garage, however, collapsed.

An accident which was said to be due to an erroneous signal by a pedestrian resulted in a Cellardyke man being fined. He was David Brown, bus driver, 55 Toll Road, Cellardyke, and he admitted that on September 28^th on Main Street, Colinsburgh, he drove a motor bus without due care by failing to keep a proper look-out when emerging on to Main Street, Colinsburgh, whereby the bus collided with a motor lorry driven by David Martin, 65 Sutherland Street, Kirkcaldy. He was fined 10s. Mr L W. McInnes, W.S. Cupar, on his behalf, said that as accused approached the junction of the roads he got a signal from a pedestrian at the corner to go on, and he took it that the road was clear. The cause of the accident was the erroneous signal given by the pedestrian.

Scots Boats’ Big Catches At Yarmouth – FIFE CREW LAND 238 CRANS Peterhead Drifter Loses 30 Nets By A Special Correspondent.

Sunday herring fleet’s deliveries at Great Yarmouth yesterday exceeded 15 000 crans, the Agnes Gardner (KY Cellardyke boat landing a total of 238 crans The skipper had to leave 100 crans in the sea as he was loaded to capacity. Industry a Peterhead drifter brought in 200 crans and lost 30 nets as a result of the thick shoals.

Fresh herrings at first realised 19s per cran but the big supply caused values to fall and many sold at 10s to 17s per cran with Is – per cran for overday’s

To restrict the landings the drifters — commencing to-morrow — will be prohibited from leaving Lowestoft and Yarmouth after 2 pm each day until 6 next morning. Yesterday’s big catches again revealed the serious state of the market and a review of the first week of the season shows all too plainly that conditions this year are much worse than the fishermen had anticipated In four days the price per cran for good quality fish dropped from 30s to as low as 12s and many fishermen whom I spoke to in Yarmouth to-day said that unless the prices rise considerably this week they will have no other alternative than to leave The drifter owners cannot be blamed if they do decide to return to the northern ports before the season is over for the market is dead against them Some shots were sold at Yarmouth on Saturday as manure for 3s a cran

Wives Who Keep Their Maiden Names, How Problems Are Solved For the Postman By Dyke Fife.

MISS JENNY LEE has decided to keep her maiden name for public and professional purposes after the Bloomsbury Registrar has made her Mrs Aneurin Bevan to-day. But the Lochgelly young lady is not breaking fresh ground this respect. Many women writers continue to be known by their maiden names, well as actresses like Sybil Thorndike (Mrs Lewis Casson), and advocates like Miss Margaret Kidd (Mrs Macdonald). But indeed, this is no monopoly of the “intellectuals,” nor is it a custom of recent origin. It is as old as the hills, and is still generally prevalent in such places as the fishing communities of the East of Scotland. In the East Neuk. round the ports that fringe the East Neuk of Fife and you will find in Cellardyke, Pittenweem. and St Monance how tenaciously the maiden name of a woman adheres to her all through her married life. Take a fictitious example. Jean Watson may become Mrs Thomson, but Jean Watson she will remain to her townsfolk till ” the end of the chapter.” Her family, indeed, will known as ” Jean Watson’s bairns.” Even her husband, if his name happens to be duplicated in the town, will be referred to as ” Jean Watson’s man,” to distinguish him from 6ome other John Thomson. There is an interesting sequel to this last-named fact which is well worth mentioning. In many of our fishing towns a number of men often bear the same Christian names and surnames, and in order to differentiate them they are referred to in any legal document concerning them, as well as in the address of their letters, by their wives’ names enclosed brackets after their own. Sufficient Indication. example, the postman going his rounds might get a letter addressed “Mr Thomas Brown (Davidson),’* and another to “Mr Thomas Brown (Smith),” or yet third addressed, “Mr Thomas Brown (Anderson).” But the wife’s maiden name in brackets is sufficiently clear indication to the postman of the proper destination of the respective letters, even were the nances and numbers of the streets omitted from the addresses. This peculiar but interesting practice, moreover, is not just East of Fife custom. there would seem to some affinity in this matter between East fisher folk and the people of the Channel Islands, and even with certain native races in tropical countries. The women of Alderney. Guernsey, and Sark retain their maiden names after marriage, and a similar privilege is claimed the women of some African tribes, notably one in East Africa, where is superstitious belief that spirits would cast an evil spell over who exchanged her own name for that the man she married. There are some other tribes which have law providing that, although a wife may choose be known her husband’s name in private, that name, must on account substituted for her own in public

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1930

THE DRIFTERS DEPART FOR YARMOUTH By Mrs A. R. ROWLANDS,

Cellardyke Six a.m. and a fine autumn morning. A faint foreshadowing of dawn is in the sky; a keen “caller” wind blows from the sea, which as yet rolls darkly under dusky clouds; the “May Light” blinks monotonously as if weary of its long night’s vigil; cheerful window lights and shadows moving across the brightness proclaim that the town has already wakened to activity. Along the narrow streets speed hurrying footsteps, some heavy and regular, others quick and uncertain, all going in the same direction ” wast to Anster.” At this hour of the morning the little town presents a “Monday morning” appearance, and seems resentful of this unusual disturbance and reluctant to emerge from its Sabbath calm into weekday bustle. Little lights gleam windows of bakers’ shops, through the lighted doorways of which glide hurrying figures carrying in their gathered aprons something which suggests “baps for the breakfast.” we approach the quay, signs of activity become more pronounced, and on proceeding down the busy pier, the “caller” wind blows keener, and the lowering morning sky causes many to prophesy rain. Threatening showers and cold breezes are, however, soon forgotten, for are now in the midst of the laughing, jolly crowd who have come ” doon tae see the boats gaun aff tae Yarmouth.” Side by side and bow to stern they lie, smoke already ascending lazily from their funnels. In the surrounding atmosphere there lingers a hot pungent smell redolent of engines.

The “Bakes”

At the quay side are gathered little groups of relatives, friends, and interested spectators. Merry talk and laughter abound as greetings and farewells are exchanged. ” Been gettin’ a drap engine ile, Tam?” slyly queries a bystander, as visitor slips cautiously from the direction of a boat’s cabin. ” Aye,” was the reply, and with a meaning glance at his questioner, ” There’s a drap left in the ‘ poorie ‘ yet.” The skippers of the various vessels have now arrived, and with looks expressing a consciousness of their responsibility, board their respective drifters. Excitement now runs high, the great event of the morning approaches as members of the crews appear with boxes or bags filled with ship’s biscuits or ” bakes.” which they distribute with lavish hands among the sightseers. It is considered strict etiquette to accept the proffered ” bakes “; to refuse would not only be breach of good manners, but would also “bring bad luck tae the boat.” ” Tak’ up a’ thae bits,” shouts commanding female voice, as the owner points to some fragments still remaining in a box. A shrug of the shoulders and a toss of the head is the only reply, as one of the younger members of the company deliberately turns her back on the box and its contents. ” A weel, if ye’re sae prood an’ mim-moo’d, yer mither’ll tak’ them, ma lass,” retorts the speaker, as she promptly empties the fragments into the capacious bag purposely brought for the ” bakes.”

In the Cabin

A tall, blue-jerseyed fisherman now appears on the deck of one of the nearest vessels, and making a megaphone of his two hands, roars through them in stentorian tones. ” A’ the weemen are wanted doon here.” ” Wha’s first?” the female portion of the crowd gaze a little shyly at each other, and for a few seconds no one makes move. ” A weel, I’m gaun, come wha likes, shouts one brisk dame as she ‘ loups ‘ actively aboard the boat. With much screaming and laughter, other bold spirits follow suit, although many are glad of the aid of strong masculine hands to aid in their descent from the pier to the drifter.  A short tour of inspection of the ship deck is made, and a hasty glance cast into the cook’s galley. An invitation to ” gang doon and see the engine” is hastily refused after a look at the perpendicular stair leading to the interior of the vessel. Sounds of revelry are heard from below, and the skipper’s loud tones demanding Whaur are ye?” lead you to descend slowly and fearfully, groping your way down the ladder, at the bottom of which is the entrance to the cabin, now filled with a hilarious gathering. According to time-honoured custom, you ” toast the boat,” expressing your wish for a safe journey and ” a guid fishin’,” and with a sigh of relief, for it is hot downstairs, you creep cannily to the upper air.”

The Clang of Engines

After farewells, the pier is once more reached, and a move is made for a coign of vantage from which to observe the initial stages of the drifters’ departure. As we observe the congestion of the vessels in the small harbour, we wonder how they can be manoeuvred out into the open safety. The clang of engines now fills the air, as one boat slowly moves out of its position. Orders are shouted, and the crew rushes backwards and forwards hauling mysterious ropes. Now we perceive the use of those pieces of wood called ” fenders,” which are slung over the sides of the boat to prevent her grating either against the pier or the side of another vessel. “Ease ‘er a ft,” shouts the man at the wheel, the drifter negotiates the narrow and difficult corner of the opening leading from the inner the outer harbour As she glides gracefully into open water the sun breaking suddenly through the dense clouds, sends a dazzling ray of sunshine athwart her bow, and turns her path into a sunlit way—an omen oi good luck for the Yarmouth fishing.

Lucky Pennies

One by one the boats muster into line and swing through the narrow opening, and in their transit a shower of “lucky pennies” is skilfully thrown on the decks by the many well-wishers the pier, “Pick them up, pick them up”, is the injunction cried to the passing crews as the coins rattle down. Let uninitiated folk, however, take careful aim and select the correct moment for throwing, otherwise not the drifter, but the omnivorous harbour will receive “the luck. “D’ye see daddy?” cries the young mother, holding baby up as the boat passes. “Daddy” meanwhile waves a hand in farewell, and his eyes strain back as long they can see the familiar forms of those left behind. A further rush is now made to “the pint o’ the pier,” from which point of vantage we shout our final messages a farewells.  Soon the loud sirens drowns our voices, and we content ourselves with waving handkerchiefs, scarves, or whatever conspicuous object we have at hand. A vigorous response is waved from the departing boats, and soon a few dim specks on the horizon are all that is visible of our fishing fleet, which will in few minutes disappear “ahint the May”. Town wards once more we turn our faces. Shivering in the air, which has suddenly become cold, we hastily patter over the cobbles homewards to our daily tasks. The stir and bustle of departure is over, and the streets seem strangely quiet. Without the vigorous gaiety and activity of our blue-clad fishermen it’s a “toom toon.”

FIFTY YEARS’ PUBLIC SERVICE. Death of Cellardyke Ex-Bailie Ex-Bailie Alexander Marr, who was identified with the public life of Cellardyke for half a century, has passed away in his 88th year. He was a popular and highly-respected member of the community. Going to the burgh over 50 years ago, Marr was immediately identified with public affairs, and occupied a seat on the Old Kilrenny School Board. He then took his place on the Town Council, and in November, 1911, he was appointed bailie. On his retiral from the council in November, 1920, he had completed 29 years’ service on behalf of the burgh, and the council lost an active and valuable member. Deceased was an enthusiastic gardener, and was one of the pillars of the East of Fife Horticultural Society, both in the old days and after its resuscitation, and, just prior to his last illness, he was able to be going about in his garden. A keen bowler, he was a popular figure on the Anstruther green up to a few years ago, and he never lost his youthful enthusiasm his love for the game and in his attention to public- affairs. He was staunch supporter of Chalmers Memorial Church, in which acted in the capacity of elder. In politics the Liberal party claimed his support. He is survived by his widow.

GLEANAWAY’S TRIALS. Sandhaven-Built Craft’s Speed Tests. – The Gleanaway, the new type of fishing boat, built to the order of Baillie Carstairs, Anstruther, by Messrs J. and G. Forbes, Sandhaven, and at the launching of which Mr Wm. Adamson, Secretary of State for Scotland, officiated, has completed its speed tests off Cellardyke, Fife. It is believed that its average speed was 11 ¼  miles per hour, with fuel consumption of approximately 3s 6d per hour. Should those figures be officially confirmed, the installation of the Diesel engine in this boat will mark a new era in the fishing industry, the increased speed at reduced cost of running is an all-important point for fishermen. It is intended that the Gleanaway (KY.4O) will leave at an early date, probably next week, for the English herring fishing at Yarmouth, where ‘doubt those interested in the industry will pay attention to the qualities of the craft.

TO MEET PRINCE OF WALES. Men of North Herring Industry. SKIPPERS, CURERS AND SALESMEN. Representatives of all branches of the herring fishing industry of the North-East will meet the Prince of Wales at Yarmouth. {From Our Own Correspondent.) YARMOUTH, Thursday. I am now able to announce the names of the Scotsmen of the fish trade here who will have the honour of being presented to the Prince of Wales on the occasion of his inspection of the herring fishing industry next Tuesday. Representatives have been chosen from the various branches in proportion to the numbers engaged in them. There are five fishermen, each a well-known skipper, and they are from widely different places. The men with whom the Prince, Master of the Fishing Fleet, will shake hands are:— Councillor John Mair (“Duggie”), skipper of the drifter Brighton of the North, of Nairn. Mr James George Geddes, skipper of the Blithesome, of Buckie. Mr Alex. Tait, skipper of the Shepherd Lad, of Fraserburgh. Mr David Buchan, skipper of the Elgar, of Peterhead. Mr Martin Gardner, skipper of the Mace, of Cellardyke, Fifeshire.

Typ’cal of Race.

These five men are typical of their race, and all of them are office-bearers of various branches of the Scottish Fishermen’s Association. At the north end the herring market here, the Prince will talk with these men, and also with two English skippers, one from Yarmouth and one from Lowestoft. When he has inspected the market, and probably a typical herring drifter, the Prince will visit the curing premises on the South Denes belonging to Messrs Bremner and Low, Fraserburgh. There another representative body of the herring trade will be presented. Among them will be:- Mr Max Schultze, Peterhead, and Mr Norman Leslie, Aberdeen, exporters. Messrs Alexander Wood, Aberdeen; John Dunbar, Fraserburgh; Robert Buchan, Peterhead, and Joseph Slater, Aberdeen, curers. Councillor John Cowie, Buckie, of the Moray Firth Fish Selling Co., chairman of the Scottish Fish Salesmen’s Association, and Baillle Adam Brown, Fraserburgh, of Messrs George Walker and Sons, chairman of the Scottish Steam Drifters’ Association.

PIONEER FIFE BOATS A Buckie skipper yesterday stated to a ” Courier and Advertiser” representative that the English herring fishing at Yarmouth was first discovered for Scotsmen by Buckie and Cellardyke fishermen 55 years ago. Then only six Moray Firth boats and six Fife boats took part in the fishing, but the number from Scotland at English ports now exceeds 700.

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1925

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

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

1926

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

1927

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

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

1928

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

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

1929

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks

1921

PUZZLE FOR EAST FIFE SKIPPERS. PAYMENT PILOTAGE CLAIMS. Early this year the announcement was made by the Admiralty that applications for the payment of claims for pilotage were awaited from skippers in command of trawlers and drifters in H.M. Service during the war. Later it was suggested that payments might be made through the treasurer of the National Sailors’ and Firemen Union. If this was agreed upon authority for this method of payment should given by the skippers in regard to their respective claims. large number of claimants belong the East of Fife district, where, with few exceptions, the skippers Cellardyke, Anstruther, Pittenweem, and St Monans held command in H.M. Service. Anxious to secure the money to which they were entitled, they obtained the necessary forms, and sanction was given to the union officials to take payment of claims. Judge of the surprise of the skippers when a letter was received from the Union stating that as the claimants were non-union men the claims could not be dealt with. This decision has given rise to considerable dissatisfaction amongst the war-time skippers, especially at Cellardyke, and they trying to solve the problem of how to collect their claims, for although many have been forwarded to different quarters no notice appears to have been taken of them.

NEW METHOD OF SELLING CATCHES AGREED ON BY CELLARDYKE FISHERMEN. Cellardyke fishermen are at present putting their ” house in order.” For some time past it has been felt that the method of disposing of the catches at Anstruther Harbour has been unsatisfactory, and it is alleged by the fishermen to have been the means of keeping down the price per cran. An attempt is to be made to alter the existing conditions, and to make arrangements for the change a meeting of fishermen was held in Cellardyke Town Hall. Councillor Philip Gardner, who, although retired from fishing activities, takes a practical interest in the welfare of the fishermen, was called to the chair, and explained that the object of the meeting was to consider whether at next winter’s fishing at Anstruther herring should be sold through salesmen by bell or whether they should keep to the old method of selling privately to buyers making the highest bid on the piers. If the meeting decided in favour of the bell method they would have to draw up rules and stick to them, and not only that, but they would have to stick to one another. He suggested that, if approved by the meeting, a small committee should be appointed to discuss the matter with the salesmen. They would also require to fix the rate of commission for salesmen, but that could be left until later. Skipper Martin Gardner supported the new proposal. Under the old system, he said, many fishermen were kept hanging round the piers all morning waiting on a bid, when under the bell method they would be able to go home and get a few hours’ rest. He moved that the meeting adopt the bell method. (Applause.) Skipper Lock Horsburgh said he had been told by two or three stranger buyers that if the bell was introduced they would come to Anstruther; if not, they would go to other ports. He supported the motion. Under the old method was sometimes difficult to know what the bid was and who made the bid.

Making More Competition. He also instanced a case where boat came to Anstruther Harbour and the skipper had to go through all the town to get buyer to take them. The bell method would make competition more keen, and the fishermen would not suffer through that. It was at least worth a trial. The Chairman asked if anyone present was against the bell method. Skipper Horsburgh —I don’t suppose any of the fishermen will be against it. The buyers might be against it. (Laughter.) Fear was expressed by several fishermen present that all the fishermen might not stick together, and that a number would sell privately. After further discussion, the Chairman’s suggestion to appoint a committee to confer with the salesmen was approved, and the following were elected: —Messrs Martin Gardner, Lock Horsburgh, John Martin, Robert Anderson, T. Reid, John Muir, R. Gardner, and the Chairman. Thereafter the Committee met the salesmen in the Harbour Office, Anstruther, when it was agreed to adopt the bell system, and the commission of the salesmen was fixed. The Committee was authorised to take steps, as far as legally could, to prevent any fishermen deviating from the rules laid down.

1922

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

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

1923

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

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

1924

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many Thanks