The Cellardyke Echo

1933 Model Yacht enthusiasts at Cellardyke yesterday had their first taste of racing here are some of the members of the club with their yachts, all made by the fishermen themselves and replicas of old fishing boats.

1926

One of the most enjoyable entertainments ever produced in the Town hall Anstruther, by local artistes was that last night on behalf of a fund being raised for the purpose of constructing a bathing pond at Cellardyke.

 The function was under the auspices of Kilrenny Town Council, which has in recent years carried out several necessary improvements in the burgh, all with the object of enhancing the reputation of the district as a summer resort.

To Mr James Wood, Cellardyke, reckoned to be the leading Tenor of the East Neuk, falls the credit of the successful training of the singers and the first rate staging arrangements, while the dancers had expert tuition from Mr graham Macneilage, Anstruther,

Every seat in the large hall was occupied, while booking for tonight’s Friday performance is also satisfactory.

Miss Maggie Anderson, Anstruther was pianist.

St Andrews Town Council

The Minutes of the Town council in Committee bore that Bailie Mackie moved that stances for three motor boats should be allowed at the Bruce Embankment; That Mr Alexander Ritchie, 5 Burnside terrace, Cellardyke should be given sole permission for rowing boats at the Bruce Embankment, and that Messrs Wilson and son and Mr James Cargill should be given permission to have rowing boats at the harbour.. after counter proposals and a vote, it was Agreed that Mr Alexander Ritchie should be offered the same terms as the previous year.

In connection with these minutes the Town Clark reported that two offers had been received for the boating stance at the Bruce Embankment – one of £6 from the MacConnachie Motor Company, who have had the stance for a few seasons and another of £5 5s from Mr James Cargill St Andrews.

Judge Greig moved that they accept the Maconnachie’s offer. He said that it would be in the interest of public safety if Mr Ritchie (of the Motor boat Coy), got the stance. They had experience of that gentleman, and they knew the great care he took. There was little in the money.

 Captain Daniel Wilson seconded Judge Greig, remarking that they would never get a better service than mr Ritchie had given them, in boats and materials.

1927

Estates

Mrs Margaret Cunningham or Watson Rodger street Cellardyke –  £1994 5s 1d

For sale

Boat tavern Cellardyke, with dwelling house above, and garden. Modern premises. Well fitted with all conveniences, only public house in burgh. Proprietor retiring. Full particulars from D. A Cook, Solicitors, Anstruther, with whom offers may be lodged.

1928

Stranraer

Five liners landed fair suppliers. Best catch Pilot Star, Cellardyke.

Salmon fishings to let

The Commissioners of Crown Lands are prepared to receive tenders for a lease of the salmon Fishings in the sea extending from the pier at the southern end of Cellardyke harbour, in the parish of Kilrenny, to Fifeness in the Parish of Crail…

Tenders to be received not later than the 15^th March 1928.

Perth festival of Music

Tenor solos, general Class B test pieces ‘Lovely Celia’ (H lane Wilson) ‘The Gardner’ (Wolf) Entries 3 – 1 James L MacLeod, Cellardyke…… 2 Low Brown, Burntisland, 3 James Kennedy Blairgowrie.

1930

Kirkcaldy Woman Dies in Canada

A cutting from a Canadian contemporary, just to hand, contains a lengthy reference to the death of Mrs Wm. Bowman at Powassan following a protracted illness. Mrs Bowman, whose maiden name was Betsy Wilson, was a sister of Mrs Henry Brown, 8 Salisbury Street, Kirkcaldy. Born at Cellardyke 68 years ago, she was married at the age of 18 at Pittenweem to William Bowman, and for twenty one years the couple resided at Kirkcaldy, where their several children were born. They went to Canada over twenty years ago, and were first located at Englehart, but for the past 15 years they have resided at Powassan where Mrs Bowman made many friends by her goodness of heart and neighbourliness, and her passing is a matter of general regret. The funeral took place to the local cemetery, and the services were conducted by Rev T Murray, of the United Church, formerly Auchtermuchty. A pathetic circumstance is that Mrs Bowman died on the eve of her Golden Wedding anniversary. Mrs Bowman is survived by her husband and four daughters, three of whom with their husbands attended the funeral.

1931

Deaths

Anderson – At Dundee Royal Infirmary, on the 10^th march, Charlie Anderson, youngest son of Euphemia Anderson (and the late Mitchell Anderson) 2 Fowler Street, Cellardyke, in his 20^th year.

1932

Two volumes of Infant songs, to be published this month – entitled ‘Rhythmic Pictures in Song and Dance’ are the work of Miss Elder, infant mistress of Cellardyke School, who is to be congratulated on the success of her collaboration with Mr Robert MacLeod, Moray House Edinburgh. That the work has received the gratifying criticism of Sir Arthur Somervell is an indication that these songs possess great charm and are able to instil into the child-mind the first elements of musical appreciation.

1912

Indignation prevails amongst the fishermen in the fife coast burghs over damage to their nets, alleged to have been done by torpedo boat destroyers. The damage this week amounts to £150, the fishermen who have suffered belonging to Cellardyke, Pittenweem and St Monans.

Claims for damage have been lodged with the Fishery Officer and coastguards, and Major Anstruther Gray, M.P. will raise the question in Commons.

1914

In Anstruther Town hall on Saturday Afternoon, all was stir and enthusiasm. The reason was the desire on the part of the community to show their esteem for appreciation of the services rendered by one of the most popular men in the district – Dr Wilson- who was presented with a rose bowl and a cheque with which to purchase a motor car.  Mr A C MacIntosh, in the unavoidable absence of Ralph Anstruther, Bart, of Balcaskie, presided, and the Rev Mair referred to the popularity of the Doctor from Cellardyke to St Monans, inclusive, whence the subscriptions had come, showing that he had not spared himself during the 25 years he had done work which no salary could repay. They were therefore there that day to show their gratitude for his energies, the Doctor had also shown interest in Public affairs, such as fishery matters and sports. In asking Dr Wilson’s acceptance of the gifts, Mr Mair expressed the hope that he would be spared to enjoy them, and live to celebrate his jubilee in their midst. (Applause). Dr Wilson thanked the company for their kindness to him during the years he had been amongst them. On the motion of Mr Maxwell, the Rev Mr Mair and Mr MacIntosh were heartily thanked for their services as were also the lady collectors, on the motion of Mr Readdie.

1915

Tuesday 23^rd

About a score of boats left Anstruther harbour yesterday. With favourable weather today, 23 boats including 9 steam drifters, arrived with a total catch of almost 400 crans. The best takes were Majestic of Pittenweem (motor) 60 crans, Steam drifter Breadwinner of Cellardyke 45 Crans; sailboat Snowflight of Cellardyke and motor boat Bounteous Sea of St Monans 30 crans each. There was a fairly good demand for herrings and prices were from 18s 6d to 20s 6d per cran. All the fleet is at sea tonight but the weather is threatening.

Wednesday 24^th – The herring fishing today is light but regular. Altogether 23 boats arrived with a total catch of 300 crans, the best take being 32 crans, landed by the steam drifter Olive Leaf, of Cellardyke. Other good takes were – Vanguard III, Cellardyke, Camelia, Sty Monans, and Calceolaria Pittenweem, 20 – 25 crans each The quality was mixed but prices had an upwards tendency, the range being from 25s 6d to 28s 6d per cran. The weather continues favourable and all the boats are at sea.

1916

Mr Robert Ray BSc son of the Minister of the Parish is at present home from Africa. Mr Ray’s intentions were to join the Army, but owing to his knowledge of Chemistry, his services have been enlisted for munition making. Mr Ray had a brilliant career in science at St Andrews University, where he also gained fame as one of the most expert hockey players.

1917

Mr John Barbour (68) retired teacher, Cellardyke, died yesterday morning.

A native of Dumfriesshire, he had his first experience as a teacher in Johnstone, and on the opening of the Public School in Cellardyke in 1878 he was appointed its first headmaster in 1878. He remained in constant supervision of the school until he retired about three years ago.

He was a member of Cellardyke Parish Council and an elder in the Chalmers Memorial Church, he is survived by a son and daughter

Mr James Leslie, manufacturer, Lyndhurst, Anstruther, who has just died was a native of Leith, but went to Anstruther at an early age.

He soon showed and inclination for a seafaring life, and from cabinboy he made progress till he was ultimately master of a sailing ship. On retiring from the sea he became a partner in the firm of Messrs J. Martin & Co oilskin manufacturers, Cellardyke.

All parties having claims against the late James Leslie, manufacturer Cellardyke, will please lodge same within fourteen days with the subscriber; and all parties indebted to the deceased will please make payment within the like period.

A F B Lawrence Solicitor, Edinburgh

1918

Estate of Andrew Henderson (second owner of my house, blown up by a mine with his sons while fishing August 1917)  £2618 16s 3d

1923

Lonely Cellardyke Woman’s death

The Rusted Nail

Mrs Janet Birrell Murray, Shore Street, Cellardyke, has fallen victim to gas poisoning.

One of the oldest residents of the fishing town ‘Janet’ as she was familiarly known locally, was an alert woman of 85 years of age. Residing alone she met her fate in particularly tragic circumstances, as the evidence proved that the old lady had made strong endeavour to get clear of the fumes.

The milkman on his rounds was first to realise that all was not well with Janet. He missed her usual call at the milkcart and inquired of the neighbours her whereabouts, but no one had seen her. A strong smell of gas in the vicinity served to increase his fears, and he raised the window. Here he saw the old woman lying lifeless. The police were communicated with and entry made to the house. The meter was turned off but still the gas was escaping. Investigation showed that it was coming from a pipe leading to the top flat. A rusted nail was found on the floor and this fitted the small hole in the pipe.

It is presumed that the gas had been leaking slightly when Mrs Murray retired to rest, and on detecting it she had endeavoured to open a window. In the attempt the nail, which had been driven in to fix some hangings, was withdrawn and she had been overcome by the strong fumes.

 Dr Wilson, Anstruther, certified death due to accidental gas poisoning.

1925

Provost Readdie presided at a meeting of representatives of the town councils of Kilrenny, Anstruther Easter and Anstruther Wester held to consider the formation of a joint fire brigade for the three burghs.

It was agreed that a fire brigade drawn from the three burghs, be formed, and Bailie Bett, Cellardyke was appointed firemaster.

 A suggestion was made that the gas works would be the most central place for a fire Station, and remit was made to Provost Readdie to approach the Company for the necessary accommodation, and also for permission to install a siren.

1900

The late Alexander Watson, Fisherman, Cellardyke, by his disposition and settlement, bequeathed his whole estate, and particularly certain heritable property to his wife in liferent, and to his children, Elisabeth, James, Henry Alexander and Thomas, and to any other child or children procreated or to be procreated of his marriage equally among them and their heirs and assignees in fee. After this settlement had been executed, the daughter Elizabeth died, and another child David was born of the marriage between Alexander Watson and his wife. On the death of Mrs Watson, who survived her husband, the children of the marriage surviving were, James, Henry, Alexander, Thomas and David. Henry died intestate and unmarried in June 1899. In order to complete the winding up of the late Alexander Watson’s estate, and auction of division and sale of the heritable property was recently raised in the sheriff court at Cupar, at the instance of Alexander, Thomas and David Watson, James Watson being called as defender (multiple arguments as to the share split of the property were put forward, and the case went in favour of James.)

1902

Canaries for sale, four cocks and two hens, first crosses, cheap; what offers for lot? Apply Thos. Swinton Cellardyke

1904

With the present heavy swell, entrance to Anstruther harbours is a matter of some difficulty even danger. Yesterday morning huge waves were continually breaking over the East Pier and the Cellardyke boat Integrity, in attempting the passage was driven behind the cement pier, destroying her stem. Another three boats from Cellardyke, St Monance and Peterhead, almost met with the same fate, but luckily a large number of fishermen congregated on the pier and lent assistance in bringing the vessels into harbour.

(another report)

Twenty boats ran the harbour, but four of these were considerably damaged by being driven up the back of the west pier. The boats damaged were the Alice and Integrity of Cellardyke, the Busy Bee of St Monance, stem smashed, and the Mary Stephen of Peterhead, bilge stove in……..

1907

The annual soiree of Cellardyke Parish Church Sunday School was held last Saturday evening in Anstruther Town hall. There was a good attendance – Mr C. Harcourte’s Dramatic Company gave a performance of Bert Coote’s ‘Fatal Wedding’ in the town hall on Monday before a fair house.

John Kirkwood, labourer, West Forth Street, Cellardyke, was at Cupar Sheriff Court yesterday, convicted on evidence of a contravention of the Poaching Prevention Act, and fined 12s 6d or seven days imprisonment. The accused was found on Sunday 3^rd February in possession of a gate net for catching rabbits at the end of Cellardyke, by Sergeant Mc hardy, Anstruther. Sheriff Armour modified the sentence on the ground that he had already been punished for stealing hens on 3^rd Feb and that his poaching attempt had apparently been unsuccessful.

1909

An exciting incident occurred at Anstruther about two o’clock yesterday morning on the arrival of the fleet from the fishing grounds.

The night was stormy, and a heavy sea ran. The Cellardyke boat Triumph when making for the harbour was struck by a heavy sea, and practically swamped. She became unmanageable, and one of the crew with a rope round him swam to the pier, and in this way the other members of the crew got safely ashore. The vessel was washed upon the west beach and is totally wrecked, although the gear has been recovered.

 The bravery of one of the crew who swam ashore with the rope, William Wilson, Cellardyke, nearly cost him his life, as his swim was accomplished with heavy sea boots and thick clothing. Although the distance to the pier was not great, he was much exhausted and buffeted by the heavy sea. The incident was witnessed by a great many fishermen. The loss of the boat is covered by insurance.

1910

A largely attended meeting of fishermen was held in Cellardyke town hall on Saturday night to consider a petition to the fishery board for Scotland as to the damage done to the Winter herring fishing in the firth of Forth by the bag net fishing as practised in the upper reaches of the Firths of Forth and Tay.. In the petition (which is to be signed by fishermen from Dunbar, Eyemouth, Cockenzie, Buckhaven to Crail, and Broughty ferry to Ferryden) it is stated that the bag net fishing results in a great destruction of young and immature herring, cod, ling, haddock and plaice and has a very injurious effect on the winter herring fishing, and so the inshore line fishing. The meeting was unanimously in favour of the petition which prays for the abolition of bag net fishing and it was signed by many fishermen. It was also decided to form a fisherman’s association, to combine with similar associations in other places for the purpose of securing better protection against the depredations of the steam trawlers, the operations of which are considered very harmful to the spawnings of herrings and white fish. Better policing of territorial waters by Fishery board cruisers was stated to be what was desired.

1911

Delegates appointed at a meeting of fishermen held in Cellardyke Town hall on Saturday Evening – Provost Black presiding – to attend a conference of the East coast Fishermen’s protection Association to be held in Edinburgh were instructed to press for the abolition of bag net fishing, for the imposition of the 13 mile limit for trawlers and for the abolition of Sunday fishing as carried on by English Fishermen.

1880

The Mournful tidings were flashed home on Wednesday, that early on the same morning, James Beat, master and owner of the deep sea going boat, Teaping of Cellardyke, had been drowned in the North Sea. The particulars of the lamentable event are briefly told – the Teaping KY 1611 , a fine craft of her class was only launched at Anstruther a twelvemonth ago. The crew mustered on Monday morning, but like others of the fleet, did not sail for the fishing ground till the evening tide. The land breeze freshened as the daylight sank on the horizon, and at daybreak the next morning the weather had so changed that the sky was black with the gathering storm. Undaunted, however, by his situation, the gallant young skipper went on with the errand of the day. This had been so far gained, and with the same unshaken resolution the boat was kept close to the wind in order to make the voyage home, and so night deepened in the wintry sea, with the gale over and anon rising in hurricane fury till the spray was cast like snowflakes from the tops of the surging billows, but with brave hand on the tiller, the little craft gallantly cleft her way as when the sea bird seeks her nest in the storm. The land at last is on the weatherbow, when about two o clock in the morning the order was given to bring the boat round on the other tack. This was the fatal moment, for gathering sternway as clipper craft will do in the eye of the wind. The tiller, as by the stroke of a wild bull, tossed the skipper there as he stood at the post of duty and danger, over the gunwale into the foaming sea. Two younger brothers and other friends are of the crew, and how eager then is the rush to the rescue, and an oar is thrown to the strong hand so eager and ready to grasp it. For a moment all seems well as the spar answers for a life stay, but it is not to be, the sailors glass is run, and a terrific billow strikes away his hold and buries him and his secret for ever in the in fathomed mysteries of the grave. It occurred about 8 miles to the offing of Stonehaven, when the crew, with a sorrow and distraction not to be described bore away for Aberdeen, from which a telegram bearing the fatal message was sent to the parish minister of Kilrenny, the Rev G S Anderson. Never, perhaps, has a pastor been called to a more trying and touching duty, as the young skipper from his earnest and affectionate sympathies had stood in a peculiarly tender relationship with Mr Anderson, who also had the fatal tidings to break to the young wife, soon to become a mother, busy at that moment in her father’s house with the hopes and duties of the morrow. ….. Skipper Beat although only about 25 was also one of the most resolute and self-reliant fishermen of Cellardyke, and , altogether, a more promising and useful life has seldom passed from amongst us. He was married about 13 months ago, and the liveliest sympathy is felt on all sides for the afflicted widow, who, with many friends is today weeping over his untimely fate. He was distinguished even in Cellardyke for his intelligence and public spirit, and we, indeed, remember that when Mr Bennet opened the candidature for the ST Andrews Burghs, he submitted those views about trawling in the Forth and down on the English coast; also with regard to the necessity of a beacon light on the Carr, and other matters of vital intelligence to sea faring men, which have more or less been referred to since in the policy. Like most of his townsmen he was a devoted member of the Church of Scotland, and was one of the committee now carrying out the scheme of Church extension in Cellardyke. He was likewise one of the faithful band who are doing so much good work in the Sabbath School and Bible Class… It is a melancholy coincidence that his brother in law, Mr John Montidore, perished near the same spot about 18 months ago..

NETS NETS NETS – NEW SYSTEM – CASH TRADE

William Duncan is still offering best fishing nets at 26s 6d and 28s 6d for cash only. Orders booked now for Lammas fishings at above prices.

4lb and 4 ½ lb Great lines 10d per lb. Mounted great lines 5s 11d per Tae, Cellardyke 1880.

Arbroath – On Saturday Morning, while a strong gale prevailed, a fishing boat was seen running down upon the harbour, and on arriving was found to be the Cellardyke boat, 1285 KY. She had left Crail on Wednesday night for the fishing ground, and had been at sea all that time, unable to make the land. She had about a dozen baskets of fish, which though caught on Thursday morning, found a ready market.

Stonehaven – A Cellardyke boat ran here on Thursday with 2 tons 5cwt of haddocks, which were sold at 16s per cwt realising almost £40. On Saturday four boats from Cellardyke and Pittenweem landed owning to the severe gale, carrying shots from 10cwt to nearly 2 tons, which they sold at 13s to 15s per cwt, realising from £10 to £30 each, one of them lost 14 lines in the storm, and still caught 23cwt of fish and had all her lines been recovered the shot would have been very heavy.

1870

Presentation – The Rev William Smith, who has for several years past officiated as assistant to the Rev. George Dickson, the venerable minister of Kilrenny, having resigned his appointment, the parishioners, to express their high appreciation of his amiable character and professional acceptance, have subscribed a purse of nearly 50 sovereigns, which is to be presented at a public meeting to be held in the infant school of Cellardyke on Saturday evening. Mr Smith preached his farewell sermon in the parish church on Sabbath afternoon when many of his hearers were affected to tears.

The recent unproductive herring fishings have naturally had a ruinous effect upon those branches of trade more immediately connected with it. This of course is especially the case with boat-building, which at present contrasts very poorly with what it was several years ago. Only three new boats- one in Anstruther and two by John M. Robertson, St Monance are in the mean time in the hands of East of Fife builders; but we hear that Mr. Alexander Cunningham of Cellardyke, who has so successfully introduced the full decking of boats is on the eve of contracting for one. The trade in Anstruther is being carried on with much spirit by Mr. Jarvis, whose boats have graceful lines and splendid sea qualities for which Mr. Pottinger’s models are so highly esteemed by our Cellardyke fishermen, and their superiority to this effect has secured for them a ready sale. The keen competition which in the meantime exists amongst out carpenters is leading, it is said to contracts on the lowest margin of profits. Two boats – one 42ft the other 43feet long last contracted for at St Monance- are at the price of £105 and £110 respectively while the recent sale at Anstruther of a boat of a similar class was for the sum of £114.

1871

Severe and threatening weather has again retarded the herring fishing, which is the more to be regretted as there was reason to believe that a large shoal had gathered on the coast…. The Cellardyke crews up to Saturday, were mainly at the haddock fishing, but on that morning from thirty five to forty landed a total of 120 crans. This success would have followed with a general trial on Monday, but the stormy state of the weather interfered, and only 60 boats went to sea, which landed on Tuesday 160 crans, at the current prices of £2 per cran. In the course of the day the storm signal was displayed and no boats went to sea.

Model Fishing boats

About five years ago, an interesting series of experiments were made by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, in order to improve at once the safety and utility of fishing boats. For this highly laudable purpose, experienced builders at various Scottish Fishing stations were commissioned to construct boats after an approved design. Two of these boats were built at Anstruther by Bailie Christopher Pottinger. The first reckoned too small for this coast, was stationed at Lossiemouth, but the second, built in the autumn of 1867, was given in charge to Mr Robert Brown, and latterly to Mr Alex Cunningham, boat skipper, Cellardyke for the tentative purpose of their construction. The boat was on entirely novel principles; each end was fitted with a watertight compartment, the deck and hatchways were secured like a sailing ship, and the hull was also narrower in proportion to length than was in the case of ordinary fishing boats. So thoroughly was she got up that her cost was upward of £300 by the time she was ready for sea. The institution certainly had no mercenary motive in this experiment, as the boat was given over to the skipper on the liberal arrangement that he was to receive one half of her earnings for his trouble, while the other half was to be expended in keeping her in repair. The fact may be new to many, but so great is the tear and wear of a deep sea going boat, that her deal, or share, scarcely suffices to uphold her; and it was not to be expected that the Scotch Lassie – as the boat was named – should yield any percentage through prudence and care, we understand, the outlay from first to last has been fully recovered by receipts. After a trial of three years, during which the boat has been employed in all seasons, she was lately sold to her Skipper, Mr Cunningham for £100. A large sum has thus been expended by the National Lifeboat Institution; but this is of minor importance in the question. Has the experiment succeeded? Certainly not as regards any appreciable influence upon the fishing boats of the coast, inasmuch as the leading advances of the model had been already anticipated – the cabin, the deck, the mizzen in lieu of the mainsail, had previously been adopted – while the specific features of these safety boats may be held to be of more theoretical than practical value. On other parts of the coast, however, these models were obviously a vast improvement, and altogether the Lifeboat Institution deserve well of the country in this laudable endeavour to promote the comfort and secure the safety of our hardy fishermen.

1872

Deaths At Cellardyke, on the 25^th ult, in the 12^th year of his age, of hydrocephalus, John, son of Skipper William Watson (Jack)

The Scottish Equitable Life Assurance Society – 41^st year of the society will close on 1^st March 1872 – the funds are ample to meet all obligations, and are securely invested in the United Kingdom.  Local agents – George Sharp, merchant Cellardyke.

1873

A Saturday night Spree – At a burgh court held here on Saturday – Provost Todd and bailie Bonthrone on the bench – Robert Anderson and David Wood two young fishermen residing in Cellardyke, pleaded guilty to having committed a breach of the peace by being drunk and disorderly opposite the Salutation Inn towards midnight on Saturday week. It appears that the former panel had been taken into custody by the policeman and lodged in the lock up, but the circumstances of the case were of such a mitigated nature as to induce the magistrates to impose the nominal penalty of a fine of 5s.

Marriages

At Cellardyke, on the 31^st ult. By the Rev G Smith of the U.P. Church Anstruther. Mr John Smith, fisherman, Portessie, to Mary, Third daughter of Skipper John Pratt, Cellardyke.

1876

Proposed insurance Club for Boats – the disasters which recently befell five East of Fife Fishing boats, involving a loss of nearly £2000 worth of property, has had the effect of drawing attention to the necessity of an insurance club for boats being established in the district; and with the view of bringing the subject before the fishermen, a public meeting was held in Cellardyke on Saturday evening, at which Provost Martin occupied the chair. Messrs Cook and Oliphant, bankers and Captain kay addressed the meeting, and it was explained that the proposed club was intended to include Cellardyke, Pittenweem, and St Monance, to which places 360 boats belonged, and that by paying a sum of 2s 6d as entry money, each fisherman would be entitled to have a voice in the framing of the rules and appointment of officials. At the close of the meeting, nearly forty boat owners paid the entry money. Similar meetings are shortly to be held at Pittenweem and St Monance.

Shipwrecked mariners Society

The Committee having heard that the towns of Cellardyke and St Monance in Fifeshire, had lost, in one blow, 37 of the flower of their sea going men, leaving 19 widows and 72 orphans and that a local fund was being raised to help these destitute ones, resolved to head the list of contributions with £150.

1877

A storm from the west broke over the East Coast yesterday with a startling suddenness, and as the whole of the boats were at sea, much anxiety was felt for the safety of the crews. Towards dark a number of boats entered Anstruther harbour, including eight belonging to St Monance and three to Fisherrow, and others shortly before the telegraph office closed. About 50 fishing boats belonging to Cellardyke, Pittenweem and St Monance were not accounted for. The fishermen all speak of the storm as extremely severe. A fisherman belonging to Pittenweem named Gay was washed overboard and drowned but so far no further loss of life is reported. While entering Anstruther harbour late on Friday night one of the Cellardyke boats was struck by a sea and dashed up against the breakwater, but although very seriously damaged the crew succeeded in getting her up into the inner harbour.

1878

At a burgh Court held in Cellardyke on Monday – all the Magistrates on the banch – John Watson (Watson), fisherman, residing in James street, was accused of a contravention of the 251^st clause of the general Police act, in so far that, according to the complaint, he used threatening and abusive language calculated to provoke a breach of the Peace towards Mrs Ann Graham or Addison, at or near the house of the said complainer on the 17^th ult. The panel pleaded not guilty, and was defended by Mr Cook, who held that this offence, though it could be proved by the Fiscal, did not come into the meaning or scope of the act, having been committed in the garden or back yard of the dwelling house of the parties, and not in the street or public place, in which a prosecution could alone proceed. Procurator Fiscal Peebles objected to the definition, and referred to the complaints under which action had been taken in the case of pigstys, but the magistrates sustained the defence and dismissed the charge.

Four schoolboys named Alexander Smith, James Dick and Thomas and Robert Boyter, were then charged with stealing turnips from a field farmed by Mr Gray of Rennyhill, on the 16^th of last month. Two of the youthful transgressors only appeared. One of these named Boyter pleaded guilty, but Dick denied the charge of stealing, when Police Constable Forsyth deponed to having seen the boy, whom he identified in court, eating at least his share of the spoil, and his complicity being thus established, the magistrates, after a suitable warning, sentenced each to a fine of 3s 6d.

1854
The following parties will be brought before Mr Monteith to plead Guilty or Not Guilty, on Friday 20th, and to be tried before a Jury on 31st January current, Agnes Wilson, Cellardyke assault ……

1856
Marriages
At St Andrews, on the 17th Instant, Mr Hill Brown, Carter, Cellardyke, to Miss Euphemia Campbell there.
At Kilrenny Manse, on the 17th Instant by the Rev Mr Cutler of Anstruther Easter, Mr John Donaldson, residenter, Cellardyke to Miss Ann Elder there. The gallant bridegroom is upwards of seventy years of age, but the buxom bride has not seen forty summers.

1862
On Monday, a young woman belonging to Cellardyke while crossing the street, was knocked over by a cart, laden with nets, which was passing at the time. The shaft of the cart struck the young woman in the breast, and before the cart could be stopped one of the wheels passed over her shoulder and legs. After medical aid had been procured, it was found that the injuries she had received were not of so serious a nature as was as first suspected – one f her legs being broke, but not otherwise seriously injured. She is now on a fairway to recovery.
(Another report names the girl as Agnes Mathers of St Monans who had been visiting relatives)

1864
Marriages
At Cellardyke on the 8th Inst, by the Rev Gabriel Smith of the U.P. Church Anstruther, Mr Michael Doig, Fisherman to Christian, second daughter of Mr John Pratt.
Deaths
At Cellardyke on the 17th inst, Elizabeth, daughter of Leslie Brown fisherman, aged 14 months.

1865
A story about the masons and the positive advantage being a member of a lodge can bring….

about the second decade of the present century, the late Captain Strang, of Cellardyke was voyaging among the South Sea Islands, when during the darkness of night, and at the height of a violent gale, his ship struck a coral reef, and shortly afterwards sank beneath the waves. A number of the crew perished in their efforts to reach the land, on which the surf was wildly breaking, but Captain Strang and a few others were more fortunate, and succeeded in reaching the shore. They had scarcely don so, however, when they encountered an enemy who threatened to be still more cruel and remorseless than the sea, for they were at once attacked by crowds of native savages armed with clubs, with which they fiercely beat the poor exhausted mariners. But life, even in their forlorn condition was too precious to be yielded up without a struggle, so, with true British spirit the sailors closed with their assailants. To avert the blow which was about to be dealt on his defenceless head, Captain Strang seized hold of his swarthy opponents hand and mechanically, as he declared, in the excitement of the moment gave him the ‘Mason’s grip’ To his inexpressible astonishment and joy – it would be difficult to tell which feeling most predominated – the war club was on the instant thrown away and the arm which had been uplifted for his destruction clasped him as suddenly to it’s owner’s breast, who appeared to be thrown into a transport of exaltation and delight. The other savages were at once summoned by this new and unexpected friend from their work of death, and also began to treat the bewildered Captain with the utmost kindness and respect. After the first outburst of feeling, the castaway sailors were conducted with the greatest of gentleness to the huts of the islanders, where they were provided with refreshments and mats, nor did the attentions of their hosts stop with ministering to their personal wants, for whatever of value was cast up by the sea, including clothes, nautical instruments, were at once given up, the finders appearing to be proud of an opportunity of doing this Captain a service. After sojourning for some weeks on the island, during which the feelings and conduct of the natives underwent no change, the party were taken off by a European ship, and conveyed to a British colony. We do not suspect any of our readers, except some enthusiastic mason, to believe with the worthy Captain when he essayed to explain his extraordinary adventure, that freemasonry had either the remote origin or the universal dissemination that he has asserted, although the existence of the ‘craft’ amongst the South Sea Islanders is certainly an anomaly which leaves the imagination considerable liberty to account for.

The annual meeting of the Sabbath Alliance of Scotland was held in the National Bible Society’s Rooms, St Andrews Square Edinburgh yesterday afternoon….. a report on the sacredness of the Sabbath was read …… it stated that in August last a communication had been addressed to the Society from three fishermen of Cellardyke regarding what they termed ‘a very daring outbreak of Sabbath desecration on the part of the fishermen of Pittenweem and St Monance’ In consequence of the measures which the Alliance took in regard to this proceeding, and a similar case of fishing on Sunday which took place shortly afterwards off Dunbar – by the distribution of tracts, and by the co-operation of the clergymen and others in these towns – it was believed that this form of Sabbath desecration had received a powerful check.

Number of boats involved in the winter herring
Anstruther and Cellardyke – 67 boats
Pittenweem 16
St Monance 38
Largo 5
Buckhaven 64
Crail 3
total 193

1867
On Wednesday afternoon, as the herring fishing fleet were leaving our harbour the Cellardyke boat. No 76, Alex Tarvet skipper was run into by another boat, belonging to the same place, while in the act of tacking. The collision was so violent that the first boat was cut down below the water’s edge and the transverse fittings of the bunk, where the stroke was received, were driven through the planking on the other side. Happily the accident occurred at no great distance from the pier, and the wind being southerly the damaged boat was able to reach the harbour in safety.. The other boat received no injury, and proceeded to the fishing ground. Had the collision happened at sea, the boat No 76, as well as her fishing gear, if not the lives of her crew would have been lost. The extent of the damage must detain her a night or two from the fishing before the necessary repairs can be completed.

1815

Last week a boat belonging to Cellardyke while out in the Firth fishing for herrings, was upset, and the crew (a father and son, and another person) unhappily perished. By this melancholy accident, we are sorry to learn, 10 children have been made fatherless.

1826

Fishing Company (Edinburgh)

The Company do not intend, at least in the first instance, to equip fishing boats of their own and hire fishermen, or to teach new and improved methods of fishing. They merely propose to buy the fish from real fishers at Cellardyke, Cockenzie and Eyemouth from whom the Newhaven and Fisherrow boatmen buy them at present. – to prepare smacks for receiving and boxes for packing them – and to make the most effectual means for insuring a regular and early supply for the Edinburgh Market. The mode recommended at first, as most safe and economical, is to contract with a certain number of boat’s crews, on some particular station, for all the fish of good quality they catch. These would be delivered to the company’s agent, packed and dispatched to Edinburgh by a steam vessel, the greater the expedition and certainty in this species of navigation compensating for the additional expense, Captain Carnegie has ascertained from an experienced fisher at Cellardyke (Mr Connolly), that the fishermen there would be quite willing to contract with the company, and that a steady supply could be depended on. The prices as stated by Mr Connolly at this station will surprise the consumers of the same fish in this town. The price for haddocks at Cellardyke has been for years only from sixpence to one shilling per score in the summer, when we have none in pour markets and from eight to eighteen pence in the winter when the fish are in perfection. Last November it was from eighteen pence to two shillings, Cod has been sold there for years at ten shillings per score in summer and eleven shillings and eight pence in winter. Most of the cod that comes to our market can be bought there for nine pence for three fish…. The Cellardyke seamen are very adventurous. In winter they never go less than 8 or 10 miles beyond the mouth of the Firth to the deep sea fishing, and in summer they often go 30 or forty miles to the eastward of the Isle of May and occupy the same ground as the Dutchmen, whose vessels they often board. There are thirty boats in all at Cellardyke, and ten of these Mr Connolly thinks would supply the Edinburgh Market.

1838

New Year’s gift – On Sabbath week, at the close of the exercises of the Sabbath School of Cellardyke, the Scholars presented their esteemed teacher, Mr Thomas Brown, with a handsome copy of Scott’s Commentary, in six volumes, together with a beautifully bound pocket bible, as a testimony of gratitude for his unwearied labours in promoting their spiritual welfare.

1841

The Anstruther and Cellardyke Total Abstinence Society held its third soiree in the independent Chapel here on the evening of Tuesday last, when there was a very numerous and respectable attendance. The president of the society, Mr Fowler, merchant Cellardyke presided. Amongst the speakers was the Rev, Mr Scott of Leslie, who powerfully advocated the cause of total abstinence, and made strong appeals to the consciences of non-total-abstainers, relating a number of suitable and humorous anecdotes that had come into his own observation. The Rev Messrs Thom and Murdoch also delivered excellent addresses, and the Rev Mr Kinninmont read an interesting essay on the ‘diffusion of knowledge’  last though not least a choir of vocal music, led by Mr Dick shoemaker, made up the intervals. Altogether were were highly gratified, and we may congratulate the society on the countenance and support it receives.

1843

Outrageous incident –

On the night of Wednesday the 11^th ins, between the hours of eleven and twelve, the house of James Wilson, Vintner, was forcibly broken into by four young men belonging this place and Cellardyke. It appears they were tipsy, and had knocked at the door for admission, which was very properly refused them, on account of the lateness of the hour. They were determined, however, to make way for themselves, and, taking up a log of wood which was lying near, they commenced an attack on the house door, and in a short time smashed it to pieces. They also broke six or eight panes of glass; and, after having forced an entrance assaulted the inmates of the house, some of whom were rather severely hurt. Consequences much more serious might have occurred had it not been for the assistance of some neighbours.

Accident – on the morning of Tuesday the 10^th – a man, named James Imrie fell from the top of a granary stair in Cellardyke. in drawing to the door after him, a ring which was affixed to it for that purpose came out, and he was in consequence precipitated to the road below, a height of some 15 or 20 feet. When taken up he was quite insensible, but is now slowly recovering. His leg is said to be broken above the knee.

1846

The great superiority of Elie harbour over all others o the East Coast of Fife, in easterly storms was fully verified yesterday, during the severe storm which raged from that quarter; for before dark about forty fishing boats, belonging to St Monans and Cellardyke, (the greater number, containing eight hands each, amounting in all upwards of two hundred men) took shelter in our safe, but long neglected harbour…

Just a single long article this week, I’m sure folk will enjoy this.

Published by a regular Cellardyke Correspondent Mrs Rowland

5^th January 1931 Dundee Evening Telegraph

Etiquette that is strictly observed by the ‘Children of the Sea’

Cellardyke, that picturesque, Dutch looking fishing town, with its red roofs and quaint name, forms part of the Burgh of Kilrenny, the most easterly of those triple Royal Burghs, known since their amalgamation by the official title of Anstruther.

Anstruther Easter, Commonly called in the East Neuk of Fife ‘Anster’ has been for many years recognised as the business centre of the three towns.

The Ancient Burgh of West Anstruther is now a fashionable summer resort, while the populous and prosperous Cellardyke is the home of the skippers and crews of the Steam drifters now berthed in the Union Harbour of ‘Anster’.

The fisherman’s financial year closes after the return of the boats from the ‘sooth fishin’; the first week of December sees the drifters safe in their home harbours.

 Before the of the month comes the reckoning up of profits and losses, and the ‘pairtin oot’ or apportioning to each crew member of the boats crew his share of the balance left after all expenses are paid.

A successful Yarmouth fishing means a busy wedding season in the fishing towns, the new year being the recognised time for setting sail on ‘ the sea of matrimony’

In the short period preceding Hogmanay, the prospective bride and groom will be busily engaged in getting their future home into ‘ship shape’ order. The forth coming ‘launch’ will be the subject of many comments and much criticism, but none can truthfully predict which of the bridal pair will eventually become ’skipper’

The Dyker Lass is but a bairn in cradle when the first of her ‘providin’ is laid in her kist by her shrewd and thrifty mother. ‘She’ll hae a hoose o’ her ain someday, even though she disna get a man,’ is the explanation given for this early buying of the trousseau.

Thus it happens that our fisher lassies are amply provided with all the household necessities in the shape of sheets, table cloths and towels. They are all possessed of a miscellaneous collection of useful articles presented by friends or gathered themselves during girlhood’s years.

‘The hoose is taen’ shortly before the close of the Yarmouth fishing, and just after her groom’s return, the bride ‘gies up her job’ at the oilskin factory in which she is engaged.

Although she always attempts to slip away quietly and unnoticed by her workmates, all her attempts are usually frustrated. Several pairs of keen eyes are on the watch, and willing hands are ready to pounce upon the escaping bride.

However unwilling the ’victim’ may be, she gives in with the best grace possible, and submits to the ordeal of being ‘ hurled hame’ knowing that the less fuss she makes the more easily she will, be let off.

The substantial works ‘barry’ or hand cart is ready at the ‘big gate’ and the bride, draped in a white lace window curtain, ‘loaned for the occasion,’ in lieu of a bridal veil, is led forth by her attendants, her assembled chums meanwhile showering her with confetti.

The bride assisted to her ‘chariot’ and tied down, while hefty lases apply themselves to the shafts; others harness themselves with ropes to the ‘turn oot’.

A procession is formed, the leader bearing a placard proclaiming ‘Here comes the Bride’ .

With cheers and merry laughter, the happy crowd proceed through the streets to the bride’s home. Nor does distance daunt, for they have been known to ‘hurl a bride hame’ to Pittenweem a distance of fully two miles from Cellardyke.

A delicate situation

In Cellardyke we have our own special and rigidly observed forms of wedding etiquette. With us, the bridegroom’s mother bears all the responsibility of furnishing and setting in order the house for the reception of the youthful pair.

The situation is oft times delicate and even critical, and requires both tact and forbearance on the part of the mother in law and bride to be, in order to steer the bridal barque past the treacherous rocks of discord into the peaceful haven of harmony.

The future home must first of all be freshly papered and painted in readiness for its furniture. The mother in law may invite the bride to be to ‘pick her paper’, that is choose her wallpaper, or she may not.

The prospective wife may also be allowed ‘some say’ in the selection of the furniture. In most cases she is permitted to make her own choice, but only by courtesy of ‘the man’s mither’

The only article of furniture which the happy pair usually purchase together is the ‘nock’ or large wall clock, without which the furnishing of a fisherman’s home is not complete.

The bride’s contributions towards her future abode are the contents of a large and well filled kist, and, of course, her own marriage presents, one of which may consist of a set of ‘cheeny’ from the best maid.

She also ‘fills the bed’ that is, provides blankets, sheets and all necessary bedding.

About a week beiore the wedding, a visit is paid to the fashionable shops of one of our large cities, in order to purchase the bridal array.

The bride, who is accompanied by the bridegroom’s mother, is here allowed to exercise her own taste. But her expenditure is limited by the length of the bridegroom’s purse, for he, through the medium of his mother, pays all expenses connected with the house furnishing, as well as with his bride’s outer adornment for that ‘day of days’.

The bridal outfit usually consists of a dress, coat, hat, gloves, stockings and shoes. In these modern times, however, our bonny brides may prefer a conventional wedding gown and veil, and her wishes are strictly carried out, for ‘braw waddins’ are the rule, not the exception in Cellardyke.

Friday evening is invariably wedding night in ‘oor toon’ and on the previous Sunday the banns are proclaimed in the Parish Church of Kilrenny.

On the Friday evening, just after the engaged couple have left the bride’s house in order to ‘pit in the cries’ the youngest member of the crew of the bridegroom’s boat arrives at the home of the bride’s parents.

The visitor is given ‘the bride’s piece’ and a dram, twelve shillings and sixpence to buy and bottle of ‘whusky’ and the specially prepared ‘marriage flag’ consisting of vertical stripes of red, white and blue cloth.

Down to the boat goes the youth, and in the darkness of the evening, hoists the marriage flag – red stripe next the pole – to the top of the mizzen mast.

There it flies and the ‘youngest o’ the crew’ must see that it is kept flying until after the marriage ceremony, when it is quietly hauled down and later presented as a keepsake to the newly wedded wife.

Lucky the wedded couple whose marriage flag ‘blaws in a breeze o’ wind’ the more boisterous the breeze, the stronger the luck. Happy the bride, the blue of whose flag is ‘blown awa’ but happiest of all the married pair whose wedding flag ‘blaws clean awa a’ th’gither’.

The hoose fillin

The ‘hoose fillin’ takes place on the night before that appointed for the ceremony. The furniture which has arrived sometime during the week is now arranged by friends of the bride and bridegroom. Curtains are put up, pictures hung, and everything set in readiness for the homecoming of the newly wedded paitr.

At this function the bridegroom’s mother, as usual, is mistress of ceremonies, and all arranging is done under her superintendence. It is she ‘who makes the beds’ while the ‘best maid’ arranges the bride’s china in the cupboards.

It is not etiquette for the bride to be present at ‘her ain hoose fillin’.  The bridegroom may look in for a little while to express his opinions regarding placing of various articles or to ‘gie a haund wi’ the furniture, but on the first sign of ‘bed makin’ he retires, otherwise he might be caught and tossed in the blankets by his mischief loving chums.

With jokes and laughter the hoose fillin proceeds merry apace. Light refreshments are served and songs are sung. The fun being kept up until the early hours of the morning.

The marriage ceremony may be performed at the manse or in the town hall. Seldom are church weddings held in Cellardyke.

Before leaving her parent’s home, the bride stands in state for a while friends and neighbours flock in to ‘see her dressed’ in her bridal array, to express her admiration and to give final congratulations and words of cheer.

The coming of the bride’s car is the signal for the bairns to gather round in anxious anticipation of the shower of ‘bawbees’ which is invariably rained on them.

After the marriage ceremony, the bride and bridegroom proceed at once to their own house.

There the bridegroom’s mother is in readiness with a huge cake of shortbread, which is broken by her over the head of the newly wedded wife as she crosses the threshold of her own home. The falling fragments of cake are immediately pounced upon by

 The waiting crowd of bystanders, and are supposed to bring plenteous good luck to the recipients.

A poker is afterwards presented to the young wife with the injunction to ‘redd her ribs’ that is clear away the ashes from the bars of the grate.

After a brief interval in their own home, the young couple proceed to the hall to ‘cut the cake’ and receive the congratulation s of their friends. The handsome wedding cake is provided by the parents of the bride, but the marriage supper is supplied by the bridegroom.

The supper table, which is spread with a variety of substantial viands, is now surrounded by a jolly crowd, who have evidently not forgotten their appetites, but show hearty appreciation of the feast.

Nor are those friends who are unable to be present forgotten. ‘Suppers’ consisting of heaped up plates of beef steak pie and other dainties, are carried to absent ones by willing helpers. Many a lonely old body in Cellardyke has been cheered by a share of wedding supper.

A dance follows the supper, the festivities being carried on until ‘the sma ‘oors o the mornin’ Long before the merriment is over the happy pair for whom there is no honeymoon have  ‘slippit cannily awa’ hame’

Sunday sees the ‘kirkin o the bride’. Bride and bride groom, best man and best maid, together attend public worship in time honoured fashion of their ancestors.

In the quaint old town of Cellardyke the fisher las weds a fisher lass; who but she can mend the nets and tend the gear.

Our lads in the fishing seasons visit many towns and districts far from the shores of the Forth; thus we have bonny lasses from Lerwick and Lossie, and fair maids from ‘Heymouth’ (Eyemouth) happily wed in Cellardyke.

We are a friendly, sociable folk, we fishers o’ the East Neuk o’ Fife, so whether the brides are ‘Norlanders’ or ‘frae the sooth countree’ we give them all a hearty welcome, for are they not, as we are ‘Children of the sea’?

1917

One of the oldest and best known fishermen on the East Coast was Mr Martin Gardner, Cellardyke, who has just died at the age of 82, throughout his life he had been closely associated with the fishing industry. He manifested a keen interest in the public affairs, being some time a member of the Kilrenny town council, and until quite recently also a member of the Parish council. He was also for a time Harbourmaster at Anstruther. He was the oldest elder in Cellardyke Parish church, and was one of the oldest members of the St Ayle Lodge (No95) of Freemasons.

1923

Over 100 poor and aged of Cellardyke each received half a ton of coal from Mr George Fowler, Binghampton USA, a native of the town.

1925

It was purely due to ignorance, said Mr Ian W MacInnes, Cupar, who tendered a pleas of guilty at Cupar Sherriff Court yesterday on behalf of Margaret Boyter, grocer, 69 George Street, Cellardyke who was charged with failing to exhibit a label on some margarine exposed for sale.

Mr MacInnes said the accused opened a little shop in June in order to provide some form of livelihood for her father, who was a fisherman and unable to work. The rental of the shop was only £6 10s. She had no business experience, and she was greatly surprised when the inspector came in and pointed out that there ought to have been a label on the margarine.

The fiscal said he was satisfied with the explanation.

The Hon Sheriff Osborne said he would not inflict a penalty beyond the expenses 10s.

For a similar offence committed at their premises at Crail, William Fisher and David Donaldson, partners of the firm of Fisher and Donaldson, bakers and confectioners were also mulcted in 10s.

1928

The theft of a Tam o Shanter from Kingsbarns public hall was admitted by James Bett, 36 West Forth Street, Cellardyke, at Cupar Sheriff Court yesterday.

Appearing on behalf of the accused, Mr Ian McInnes, W.S. Cupar stated that on Christmas Eve, Bett attended a dance at Kingsbarns. He was one of the last to leave the hall and when he entered the cloakroom he found that his cap, a new one had gone. It was snowing heavily, and as he had about eight miles to walk home, he donned a disreputable looking Tam o Shanter, which he saw hanging up. It was his intention to return the Tam o Shanter to the hall as soon as he possibly could. When he was on his way home he was stopped near Crail by the Police and asked to hand over the Tam o Shanter.

 Sheriff Dudley Stuart imposed a penalty of 5s.

The entries for the annual show of Anstruther and District Cage bird Society exceeded last year’s total. The BFCC medal for the best bird in show was awarded to Mr W Dowie, Methil, the runner up being Mr Duncan Pittenweem who also secured a special award. The honour for the best hen in the show went to W Motion, Cellardyke..

1930

Subjects at 6 Dove Street Cellardyke for sale.

For sale by public roup, by warrant of the Sheriff, in an application for division and sale, Within the Council Chamber, Anstruther Easter, on Wednesday 29^th Day January 1930, at 2 o Clock Afternoon.

That tenement of dwelling houses, with pertinents, situated at No 6 Dove Street, Cellardyke, and occupied by Mary Gourlay, Alexander McRuvie and George Gardner.

Rental £16 15s feu Duty nominal

Reduced upset price £125

Further Particulars from D and A Cook, Solicitors, who hold the Title deeds and articles of roup.

Advert placed by W s Bonthron Anstruther 9^th Jan 1930

1905

At Pittenweem Burgh Court yesterday, before a full bench of magistrates, Walter Myles, confectioner Cellardyke, pleaded guilty to having on Sunday, the 17^th inst., at the Commercial Hotel, James Street, falsely represented that he had come from Colinsburgh, by which he obtained a glass of whisky and a glass of beer. Provost Christie passed sentence of a fine of 15s or ten days imprisonment.

1908

An interesting function was held in Cellardyke town hall, when County Committee certificates for navigation were presented to those fishermen who attended the navigation class.

The certificates were presented by Major Anstruther Gray MP who remarked that it was a source of great gratification to know that of a total class of fifty six, forty one men had been successful in taking certificates……

1909

Miss MacMillan, M A Edinburgh of Edinburgh’s National Women’s Suffrage Society, which is affiliated to the WSPU., addressed a largely attended public meeting in Cellardyke town hall on Tuesday evening. She said that at a meeting of her society recently it was decided to support any candidate, of whatever political opinions who pledged himself to vote for a Bill in Parliament enfranchising women.

A crowded meeting was addressed by Major Anstruther Gray, M.P for St Andrews Burghs, in Cellardyke Town hall. He first dealt with fishery questions, and said that when the unionist Government was in power the radicals were constantly condemning that Government for allowing trawling in the Moray Firth. Action was taken by the late Lord Linlithgow, and a master of a foreign trawler was convicted and imprisoned. When the present Government came in, instead of backing the Scottish Fishery board and the law of Scotland, the Scottish office was ordered by the Foreign Office to have the conviction quashed, with the result the Moray Firth was again open to foreigners, but still remained closed to British trawlers…. It was time the Government passed a law prohibiting fish caught by foreign trawlers being landed in English ports. That was all very well but he was strongly in favour of either opening the Moray Firth to everybody or closing it to everyone (Cheers)  He thought the three mile limit should be enforced right round our Islands….. there was no heckling and votes of thanks were passed..

1910

A distressing case of suicide was brought to light on Tuesday morning at West Forth Street, Cellardyke, when James Watson (51), was found dead in a loft or garret, hanging from one of the rafters. It seems that Watson’s non-appearance at breakfast roused alarm in his household, and a search was made for him. It was noticed that the key for the loft was missing, and his son-in law on entering found the unfortunate man’s body suspended from the rafters. Medical aid was called, but life had been extinct for several hours.

1911

The Rev Robert Gardner MA, Cellardyke has been appointed assistant in the Parish of Church, Peebles, and will commence his duties on the first Sunday in the year. He starts his career with the best wishes of a large number of friends in the district.

As usual the old folks attending Cellardyke Parish Church received their annual treat from Mrs Oliphant, Mayview.

1912

The fishermen of Cellardyke met in the town hall, when Mr Bertram Dunbar, Secretary of the East Coast Fisheries Association, delivered an address on Trawling for Herrings and Gun firing in the Forth. Mr T S Laverock president of the local branch presided. Mr Bertram said that during the last few months the burning question in fishing circles had been the barbarous for of fishing known as trawling for herrings. The murderous nets of the steam trawlers swept along gathering in all sorts and conditions of fish, vast numbers which are immature. As every fisherman knows the herring was a very delicate fish, and once enclosed in that submarine trap its career was ended…… Another grievance was gun firing in the Forth . The speaker said he had considerable correspondence with the Admiralty on the subject. In their last letter the Admiralty stated that gun firing would be confined to the mouth or outwith the Forth as far as possible, but that as Rosyth was an important Naval Base, it could not be expected that the Forth would be free from gun firing…. On the motion of Skipper Martin Gardner, it was agreed to meet the Skippers and ask them to get their crews to pay 7s per crew out of expenses, thus trying to get every fisherman to become a member of the Society….

This next report was briefly mentioned at this time last year.

1915

While many heroic and glorious deeds on land and sea are being recorded at the present time, none could possibly excel the daring, undaunted courage and cool resource of captain Michael Doig of the Aberdeen trawler Monarch, and his brave men in rescuing the crew – six in number – of the drifter Success, which was wrecked off Donmouth while on a voyage from Berwick to Peterhead. The clever handling of the Monarch in the tempestuous sea which raged along the Aberdeenshire coast was unquestionably the means of saving six men from a watery grave, and the remarkable coolness and gallantry displayed in the face of certain destruction, if anything miscarried in the navigation, calculations, affords another striking example of men willing to lay down their lives for their fellows. When such noble acts are recognised on land, it is hoped that the men of the Monarch will not go unrewarded at the proper quarter.

Captain Doig, a well-built cautious and fearless looking type of the hardy Scottish Fisherman – he is a native of Cellardyke and 43 years of age – gave an account of the rescue to an Express reporter with the modesty characteristic of the man. They had been fishing at the grounds off Peterhead, and during the night it came on to blow very heavily, and as they made their way up for Aberdeen harbour an angry sea was raging, betokening more dirty weather to follow. They came dodging up easy ahead, waiting to see if there was any chance of running the bar, but it was out of the question on account of the wild waves that were lashed into a fury at the harbour mouth. About a mile and a half off Donmouth the Skipper had his attention had his attention directed to the ill-fated Empress, which was making for the harbour, and he remarked to the second fisherman that they would watch how she got in. Just then they saw the Success, and heard her signals of distress; the whistle was blowing and the crew were waving a flag. They were trying to get off shore but they could not manage it. No headway could be made, and so violent was the storm that although full steam was up the vessel was going astern.

Wild billows raced across the bay, and the Monarch was swept from stem to stern, huge lumps of water dashing on board the craft, and every minute imperilling the lives of the fishermen. It was a spectacle that would have daunted most men, but Skipper Doig kept up a stout heart, and, having once made up his mind, determined to go to the assistance of his distressed comrades. It was a tremendous gale and getting worse all the time, the huge seas were about swamping both vessels, and the Success being a lighter craft, was tumbling about like a cockle shell. She was right on the leas shore, and, to make matters worse, was unmanageable. The Monarch had to turn right round about to get up the weather side of the Success and ascertain what was the matter with the boat, which was rolling about in all directions, sometimes alongside and the next time nearly half a mile apart. They could not get spoken to the distressed vessel on account of the heavy sea and the wind, but after some manoeuvring the Monarch dropped a buoy overboard with a line attached to drift down to the success for the purpose of towing her out to seas. Connection between the two vessels was successfully established, but the tow rope had not been aboard the Monarch five minutes when it snapped..

The skipper of the unfortunate craft then declared he could not steam to sea and wanted out of the boat all together. Then captain Doig skilfully manoeuvred his vessel into position again, and at the end of eighty fathoms of line tied a buoy and half a dozen lifebelts, one for each of the crew of the Success. These he dropped overboard and they drifted towards the success and were hauled on board. Captain Doing made signs to the crew to make themselves fast with the lifebelts and they would be dragged through the water to the deck of the Monarch. When the first one plunged into the wild breakers and was safely got on board, the rest quickly followed, and were all safely landed in half an hour in getting alongside the Success. James Reid the Skipper’s son saved the situation on the doomed craft. He made everyone fast, and stuck to the last himself. He was a very plucky chap, was the comment of Skipper Doig.

 Some of the men were very exhausted, and the skipper had a narrow escape from being jammed between the two vessels, but Captain Doig seized him by the shoulder and got him on board. The crew had a marvellous escape and but for the skilful seamanship of the rescuers would all in probability have perished. Captain Doig was in the Wheelhouse with George Fowler the mate. Four of the windows were smashed, and the wheelhouse was half full of water, but fortunately no one was injured.

The Monarch after the rescue steamed towards Gridleness, but the sea was too heavy to risk entrance to the harbour, and the boat put out to the bay all night, returning the next day. By that time there was only one loaf among fourteen, and very little water. They could not stay out longer, and ran the bar in the face of a terrible sea, and it was a big risk even at that time.

 The crew of the rescuing vessel were

Captain Michael Doig

George Fowler, mate

William Beveridge, second fisherman,

John Duncan, deckhand

John Duncan , deckhand,

Alexander Robb, Chief engineer

William Leiper, second Engineer

Robert Bowe, Cook.

Captain Doig has been a fisherman all his life, on sailboats, drifters and steam trawlers, and has been seventeen years on board the Monarch which belongs to his father, himself, and Mr Davidson Fish salesman.