The Cellardyke Echo

1900

A letter from Mr Anstruther MP was read yesterday at Kilrenny Town Council congratulating them on the success of their appeal to the Fishery Board for a grant of £1000 for the repair of Cellardyke Harbour.

Pittenweem –  On Friday evening the whole of the workmen in the employment of Mr John Clark, builder, Cellardyke, the contractor for the building of the new villa at the west end of the burgh, were , on her invitation, entertained within  the town hall to an excellent supper purveyed by Mr Kember, Commercial Hotel. The company which was numbered 35, was presided by Mr Clark, who after the supper proposed the health of Mrs Bowman and also of the Misses Bowman, and wished them health and enjoyment of the new villa when completed. The toast was responded to with great heartiness, and a pleasant evening was spent.

An attempt on the initiative of the Rev Mr Ray, has been made to resuscitate the Boys Brigade in Cellardyke, and the encouragement has been such as to encourage the movement. On Tuesday about 110 were enrolled. The office bearer are as follows :- Hon captain and Chaplain – Rev Mr Ray, Capt – George Black, Lieutenants – Messrs Brown, Chalmers, Rosie and Watson. A bible class in connection with the above has been started on Sunday mornings with an attendance of 80. The meetings are held weekly in Cellardyke town hall.

1902

 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 were 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 the flames had ignited the frameworks of the windows overlooking the factory.

It is surmised that the fire originated by the boiling over of the linseed oil boilers. The damage is roughly estimated at from £8000 to £10000, we understand which is partially covered by insurance. The premises have only been occupied a few months, and the conflagration will throw a large number of employees out of work.

(another report)

The oilskin factory belonging to Messrs John Martin was burned to the ground…. At one time it was feared the Free Church hall and adjoining properties would also be burned……. The St Andrews Fire Brigade was wired for but fortunately there services were not required!..

(Yet another report)

The factory and large stock were completely destroyed, the office front shop and engine room were however saved…… the building (a wood one with a slate roof)  was a new one and had only been occupied about 6 months.

1906

Buckhaven – Bailie Kinnear retires –  a round robin signed by all the fishcurers in St Monans ,Pittenweem, Anstruther and Cellardyke was presented as a token of regard in which he was held by those engaged in the fishing industry in these communities.

1909

Children’s Court at Cupar.

James Tarvit, son of Thomas Tarvit fisherman 19 Forth Street, Cellardyke admitted, on 30^th Oct, on board the fishing boat, Elizabeth Keays, then lying in Anstruther Union harbour, stolen six fathoms of manila rope and 16ft of small sheet rope.

The fiscal said the value of the rope stolen was 12s 6d, and the accused had sold it for sixpence. The Burgh Prosecutor considered there was something wrong in the facility with which the boy was able to sell the rope, and the matter was being investigated with a view to seeing whether a charge of reset could not be brought against the purchaser.

The mother of the accused said he was a very obedient boy, and she was astonished when she heard of the charge. The boys were accustomed to gather old ropes in the mud, and it appeared that they had boarded that boat, cut the rope and sold it to the ‘pig man’. His lordship dismissed the boy with an admonition.

1911

Guardbridge – Mrs Stewart (wife of the retiring Chirnside Paper mills manager) was presented at a meeting of the UF church Work Party with a very handsome drawing room cake stand as a token of their appreciation of her valuable services there. Mrs Stewart is very well connected, being a sister of the highly esteemed Provost Black, Cellardyke.

1912

Although an inquest was held at the Mariner’s refuge, Gorleston upon the body of John Watson, aged 27, fireman of the Kirkcaldy steam drifter Guerdon, which was recovered from Yarmouth harbour after he had been missing for three weeks, no real light had been shed upon his fate.

He had lived with his mother, a widow, at Cellardyke, and according to the skipper of the Guerdon, Adam Reid, he left the vessel on the night of October 18^th to go on shore and never returned to her.

Adam Reid, son of the skipper, said he met deceased in King Street Yarmouth at 10.10 pm more than an hour after he had left the Guerdon, and he was not the worse for drink, but the night was dark and thick with rain, and as the Guerdon was the fourth boat off the quay, Watson might make a slip in getting on board. No cry was heard during the night, and deceased never came on board again. On his body being searched by a policeman, he stated he found nothing in his pockets.

The coroner said there was no evidence to show how or where deceased got into the river, but it was probable he stumbled and fell when getting to his boat from the quay. An open verdict of ‘found drowned’ was recorded.

1913

Deaths

At 2 Carmelite street , Aberdeen on 16^th Nov,  James Sutherland, trawl fisherman late of Cellardyke, aged 43 years, deeply regretted, funeral on Wednesday 19^th at 2.30 pm to St Peter’s cemetery, All friends please accept this (the only) intimation and invitation

1916

After several unsuccessful attempts the Steamer Streatham of London, which was driven ashore opposite Kilrenny Mill, near Cellardyke during a severe gale six weeks ago has successfully been refloated. Part of the cargo had been removed, and advantage was taken of a high tide to tow the steamer into the East harbour, Anstruther. This was successfully accomplished by the tugs Empress of India and Flying Bat, leith.

Considerable damage has been done to the iron plates below the sea mark, and it is expected the vessel will be taken to Leith or Dublin for repairs. The Streatham was built only two years ago and has a gross tonnage of about 1700 tons.

1917 War office contracts – clothing, Oilskin &c – J Martin and Co, Cellardyke.

1918

The girl oilskin workers in Cellardyke have been having a series of meetings in connection with Union federation, as a result of this those of them in the employment of Messrs R Watson & Co have come out on strike.

Private James Woodward, son of Mr and Mrs Woodward, James Street Cellardyke has been awarded the Military medal for gallantry on the field on 24^th July last. He has been twice wounded.

1882

Dispute in regard to Oilskins

In the debt recovery Court, Banffshire, William Duncan, manufacturer, Cellardyke, raised an action against George Flett merchant, Findochty, for the sum of £38 11s 7d, with interest since 6^th July 1882, being the balance of goods supplied in October 1881… the items in 1881 amounting to £4 2s 2d were paid for, and other goods were stated by the defender to have been of inferior quality and part of them returned………. The pursuer admitted that intimation of the goods having been sent him had been received but he refused to take delivery….. the Sherriff finds; That items amounting to £4 2s 2d  have been paid, but the goods forming the remaining items were ordered and obtained by the defender; the defender broke bulk, sold part of them and sent back the remainder which the pursuer refused to receive. Finds that the defender is liable for the Sum of £34 9s 5d, with interest and costs of £6 12s..

1883

The Fisheries Exhibition

The United States Executive Committee have, we believe purchased a considerable portion of the exhibits of Messrs Sharp and Murray, Fish Curers and fishing material manufacturers, Anstruther and Cellardyke and Aberdeen for the purpose of being shown in the museum at Washington.

1884

Herrings 1 ½ d a Hundred – from Yarmouth – we hear that one of the Cellardyke crews sold their herrings at the manure price of three ‘bawbees’ the hundred.

1887

An understanding having been come to with the railway company to remove the remains of the unfortunate skipper, John Black, to Buckie with the train at half the usual expense. About four guineas, the seafaring men of Cellardyke united in paying the last tribute of respect…  70 men assembled on the West Pier (430 are away in Yarmouth) and when the coffin of varnished oak was landed from the ship Jubilee, it was touching to see so many sad and subdued faces falling in four and four into procession, which, with slow and solemn step, walked by the cross and the Waid Academy to the railway platform, where the melancholy burden was rested till the arrival of the first down train (9.20) for St Andrews and the North, every corner we ought to say, being crowded with sympathising neighbours, as you could hear the stifled sob, many being all the way from Pittenweem as well as Cellardyke. One of the skippers with the cousin of the ill-fated mariner, left by the same train for Buckie..

1889

‘A telegram fae the sooth; oor folks tae sail wi the tide’ cried the skipper’s wife on the stair and there is little sleep tonight, need we tell it in the fisher’s home. And how else can it be with the thousand perils seen and unseen on the way…. The catch last week in both Outlets of the Yar is the biggest for the season. The Fife boats landed six to thirteen lasts, but the price fell at Lowestoft to 25s a last, or less than a couple of shillings a cran. Nevertheless they were able to count 330 to £80 for the week.  You are told of the Gratitude with £206, the J R Welch with 3180 and others from £150 – £160 but the 140 boats from this side of the Firth will not average £90 in view of the many that have shared the losses and toils of the autumn for what today will not repay the expenses of the voyage….. as an illustration of the low prices in the south… The lady of the Lake, Cellardyke, has fished 31 lasts or over 400 crans for less than £150

1890

A telegram was received from Yarmouth by the Rev Mr Ray Cellardyke, on Friday afternoon, telling that the St Monans veteran James Lyall had been washed from his son in law’s boat, Star of Bethlehem, on Friday afternoon, and the next morning the doleful tidings were received by the Rev Mr Murray, Anstruther that William Montadore, one of the crew of the Venus Star fishing from Lowestoft had perished in the gale.

1891

HRH Princess Louisa while on her way to Kellie Castle recently stopped at Anstruther for some time, and visited some places of interest. The party attracted little attention and although many enquiring glances were cast at them they were not recognised. They visited a local watchmakers and purchased a watch on account of the interesting story attached to it. A native of Cellardyke acted as steward on Lord Nelson’s flagship. Something went wrong with the galley clock and nelson gave him this watch to keep things right. It has remained in the family for some time, but came into Mr Lumsden’s possession lately, he produced it and they eagerly bought it.

The body of the man found between Crail and Cellardyke was yesterday identified as that of James Simson Thomson 27 years of age, a labourer from Tayport.

1892

The failure of the South Drave last year gave a new impetus to the small line fishing, and during the last few months first three and then seven crews began to fish from Cellardyke. The crews use mussels either from Glasgow, Newhaven or the Eden. Their cruise extends to about 20 miles east of the May, and so far has been attended with more profit than that which marks the progress of the herring fishing

1894

Pittenweem and Cellardyke Fishing Company. The object of this company is to catch and sell fish, and for that purpose to purchase, repair and improve fishing vessels; to hire or engage men &c. First Subscribers – Alex Reay ( I’d think this is a misprint of Keay), James Street Cellardyke, Mitchell Hughes fish salesman Abbey wall Rd, Thomas Dunsire Fish carrier Shore head Anstruther; W Oliphant bank agent, Wm Hughes merchant Mid Shore Pittenweem. R T Thomson Solicitor Anstruther. John Guthrie Solicitor Anstruther. Registered office East Green Anstruther.  Capital £1000 in 100, £10 shares.

1895

The last of the fishing boats belonging to Anstruther returned from the fishing at Scarborough on Friday last. The season has not been a prosperous one the highest catch being £100, while the average will scarcely reach £40. The fishing at Yarmouth seems to have been very successful. Last week one Cellardyke boat grossed £100 in two shots.

1898

The fishermen of Cellardyke, Pittenweem and St Monans who are at present engaged in the seine or circle net fishing in the Firth of Forth, have prepared a petition to the Secretary of State for Scotland against the Bye law prohibiting the fishing being confirmed and made legal.

1871

The electors of the burgh of Kilrenny were convened by Provost Martin for the purpose of nominating councillors. There are upwards of 350 electors, but only about twenty were present, though this small attendance is readily explained by the absence of more than three fourths of the fishermen at the English fishery. The Provost also referred to the local improvements since the burgh was reformed three years ago by the last Reform Bill, such as the greenstone causeway on the main street, the reconstruction of Forth Street and the opening of a money order and telegraph office in Cellardyke…… Provost martin then alluded to a silly and impertinent remark which had appeared in an obscure local print to the effect that a more central lock up was especially desirable for Cellardyke, ‘from whence, sometimes a good many offenders against law have to be conveyed’ he was well aware the statement was as unfounded as it was offensive, but he (the Provost) had taken the trouble to enquire at Police Constable MacKay about the number of committals in the lock up from Cellardyke, when the constable informed him last year there were none but ‘Jamie Sma’’ (laughter and applause)….

1874

James Myles carter, Cellardyke, was placed at the Bar charged with having assaulted a fisher boy, named William Fleming, by striking him a blow on the head with his whip shaft. He pleaded not guilty, when evidence was adduced by the Fiscal, according to which a group of boys had been amusing themselves at ‘Sharp and Murray’s corner’ at a game of bowls, when the accused, as the youngsters thought, wantonly interfered with play. The injury was resented by a running fire of ‘glaur’ when, in a moment of irritation, to see his clean jacket besmeared with mud, Myles had dealt the boy a ‘staggering’ blow on the head. Amongst the witnesses was the complainer’s father, Thomas Fleming, who testified to the severity of the assault, which th magistrates found proven, and the charge being aggravated by a previous conviction, Myles was sentenced to 15s fine or 15 days in Cupar jail.

1876

John Alexander Millar, boat builder, Cellardyke, was examined in bankruptcy before Sheriff Bell yesterday. The bankrupts liabilities are stated at £50, and his assets at 3102 14s 4d. After examination by Mr Johnston, agent for the creditors, the statutory oath was administered.

Aberdeen – The Humane Society’s medal for saving life was awarded to Robert Tarvitt, fisherman, Cellardyke, for rescuing a boy from the harbour.

1878

Another Cellardyke fisherman drowned at Lowestoft.

Again the wild winds are sighing the sorrows of the sea, and in the old home the big tear is falling over the hopes and joys buried for ever in the deep. In this case the victim is Andrew Lyall one of the crew of the Cellardyke boat Cyprus, owned by his brother in law, Skipper John Watson, which, like the others of the Scottish fleet sailed from Lowestoft for the herring sea on the course of Monday. The weather was and had been threatening; but cheered by the rising prospects of the fishing the boats had faced the terrors of the night, when the squall once more burst upon them with all the fury of the hurricane. It was in the hour of the wildest conflict with wind and sea that the Cyprus while standing into the land was struck by a tremendous wave, which buried the decks in the bosom of the roaring cataract. The gallant boat bounded like a mighty wrestler from the grasp of her enemy, and each brave man breathed a thankful prayer for his deliverance; but there was one hero the less after that terrible ordeal. It was the sad old story, a strong hand is struck in an instant from its last life hold, and sent to battle, without a chance or possibility of rescue, in the jaws of death, where, perchance, the drowning cry is heard, but scarce heard, ere all is hushed for ever in the silence of the grave. The disaster occurred about four o clock on Tuesday Morning, and in the course of the day the fatal news were telegraphed to Cellardyke where the deceased, who is about 60 years of age, leaves a widow to bewail his loss. Andrew Lyall was a fine specimen of a Scottish Fisherman – strong and resolute as the element, at once his cradle and his grave, but withal as earnest and peace-loving, as sympathetic and true, as the needle which so often guided him through the darkness and the storm; and both on the old shore and amongst his comrades on the far away cruise his untimely fate has excited on all sides a general burst of sorrow and regret.

Some five and twenty years ago a new boat in the Anst’er building yard was an incident to be talked of at the market cross and kirk-stile but with unqualified pleasure we now observe that scarcely a month comes and goes without bringing an addition to the matchless deep sea going fleet of the East Neuk of Fife. The latest and in many ways the most interesting of these is the real sea fairy just waiting to step into the dance, under the kindly hand of our enterprising townsman, Mr Wm Jarvis. She makes no fewer than seventy eight boats on the first class register built by Mr Jarvis since the old brae rang with the music of his mallet; but besides the interest which always attaches to the youngest of the family, the new boat will be regarded as the very paragon and perfection of a Scottish Fishing Craft. In point of size she is inferior to the famous herring smacks or luggers of Yarmouth, which are sixty feet long with a register measurement of 40 tons or more; but in other respects as was so signally borne out by the remarkable success of the Fife boats on the Norfolk sea, the English owners, like the English fishermen would profit much by a leaf from the book from their cousins from Scotland. The craft now under notice is to the order of Mr James Brunton, of Cellardyke and is all but forty nine feet in length, seventeen in beam and will measure more than 30 tons. Another sister built within the year, was all the talk on Lowestoft Bridge by the unprecedented run from St Monance elbow of just one and thirty hours, and the old salt as he scans the graceful shear and gallant bearings of the new craft, will be at little loss for ‘the reason why’ and in the freshening gale our Anstruther Clippers take and keep the weather gage in the exulting race. But while able to spread their wings, while less powerful sea birds are crippled or halt in the storm – these crafts are also distinguished by their ample stowage or accommodation under hatches – a matter of the most urgent consequences, when we remember that on one and the same voyage, the deep sea going boats are occasionally freighted, both with the herring drift and white fishing tackle, either of which would more than choke the gear chamber 20 years ago. We also turn with much interest to the superior accommodation for the crew, which is here so roomy and well fitted as to make the boat in every sense a floating home not for a run but for weeks and months together as in the Lammas drave or the Shetland Cod fishery, in which, we hear, Skipper Brunton and some other energetic sea brothers of the coast after the lent of the ensuing spring.

The distressing intelligence was received in the end of last week that an Anstruther sailor, named John Duff, one of the crew of the Cellardyke herring boat belonging to James Tarvit, now fishing at Yarmouth has been accidentally drowned in the River.

Yesterday a telegram was received in Anstruther intimating that Alexander Watson, owner and master of the Cellardyke Fishing boat Star, had that morning been washed overboard and drowned off Lowestoft. The deceased was about 50 years of age, leaves a widow and five young Children. This is the third Cellardyke fisherman drowned since the boats left Anstruther for Lowestoft and Yarmouth 6 weeks ago,

1879

A Yarmouth telegram was received in Anstruther on Sabbath with the mournful tidings that Alexander Brown, one of the crew of the Herring boat Mayflower of Cellardyke had died there at an early hour that morning from the effects, as it seems of exposure and fatigue at his stormy calling. The unfortunate mariner was about 48 years of age and up to the fatal voyage looked the very picture of hale and robust manhood. He leaves a widow and 6 children to mourn his loss. His elder brother bailie Brown left to superintend the funeral….. The seafaring men at Yarmouth – whether from the shores of the Forth or elsewhere attended in large numbers… (Brown had been in the Hope… the first East Neuk boat to prosecute the Yarmouth Fishery in 1863)

This week only two court cases… for a change.. it may be an eye opener for some to learn about their relatives.

1869

The Effects of a Loose Tongue –

Burgh Court,

James Haggart, better known by his soubriquet of Abernethy, was charged with the crime of breach of the peace, in so far as he used threatening language to James Watson, fish merchant Cellardyke, and otherwise conducting himself in a drunken riotous manner near the east quay on Tuesday 5^th. The panel pleaded not guilty, when James Watson, the complainer, appeared and gave evidence to the effect that Haggart had molested him by using the most foul and obscene language to him. He had twice gone away but only to be followed with similar abuse. John Stevenson, agent for the East Coast Railway further stated that if Mr Watson had not been a man with a very mild temper he certainly would have taken the law into his own hand, so unbearable was the language used towards him. Thomas Jack a Carter boy, also appeared in support of the indictment, which having been clearly proved, the panel was sentenced to pay a fine of 12 s 6d or twelve days imprisonment. He had also been charged in the libel with a conviction for a similar offence on the 21^st march last, and in the course of a suitable reprimand Bailie Brown strongly referred to the disgraceful position to which he had been twice brought in the course of a few months, and earnestly counselled him to refrain from drinking which was bringing upon him shame and punishment.

A Mother and Daughter in Court

Burgh Court – Cellardyke

Christina Mentiplay, daughter, and Elspeth Lothian, wife of Alexander Mentiplay, fisherman, Cellardyke, were charged at the instant of Mr George Watson, tailor, fiscal of the Burgh, with having assaulted Elizabeth Doig, wife of William Moncrieff, fisherman near her house in Dove Street, on Monday 4^th. The panels pleaded not guilty, when the fiscal took up the case of the daughter first, and evidence having been called for the prosecution, the said Elizabeth Doig or Moncrieff appeared, and deponed that at the time in question she was sitting with her neighbour at her own fireside, when she heard herself so much abused by the panels that she went down to the door. She was standing there when the daughter slyly drew to the place with a stick in her hand as if to strike her. She took hold of the stick to avert the stroke, when Christina Mentiplay seized hold of her cheek, which she tore and bled with her nails; and while she was struggling to get free, the mother came and seized the back of her head, tearing away at the same time her ‘mutch’ which she had not seen since. She had frequently been insulted by the panels, but she had never provoked them. She admitted, however, in reply to a question from the Provost, that she had thrown some water before the assault was made, but no one had been wet by it. Elizabeth Beat, the next witness, said she was standing near Mrs Moncrieff and saw distinctly what passed. Her evidence simply corroborated the former. Mrs William Watson was then examined for the defence. About the time she said, of the assault a number of boys were making an outcry in the street. She went out of her house to see if any of her family were there. She did not see the panels assault Mrs Moncrieff, but she saw the latter strike Mrs Mentiplay. The panels in her opinion were very quiet people, and to her own knowledge they had received much ill usage. A younger daughter of Mrs Mentiplay was next put on oath, and said that the reason why a stick was in her sister’s hand was to drive away the boys. Mrs Moncrieff was the first aggressor, and tore her sister’s face. Mrs Mentiplay, the other panel, was then, at her own request, heard as a witness. She gave a long statement, in the course of which she said that water as well as dirt was thrown at her and her family by the complainer. The boys were also in the habit of tormenting them and calling them ‘Fenians’.  They were doing so on Monday when her daughter went out to put them away. While doing so, water was thrown by the complainer. Her daughter simply asked the reason of this when the complainer scratched her face. She went to her daughter’s help, when Mrs Moncrieff pushed her over and struck her with a stick.

This closed the evidence on both sides, when the Fiscal addressed the court, contending that although there was great ambiguity as to who was the first aggressor, it was clear from the witnesses on both sides that an assault had been committed, and that the order and peace of the burgh demanded that an offence of this kind should be punished, for even with provocation it was for no one in a well-regulated community to take the law into their own hands. Provost Martin, then proceeded to give judgement of the court. He said that though he and his colleague had patiently considered the case, which was an exceedingly painful one as well as the most disgraceful to all concerned, the Court considered that one side was as bad as the other, and that the Fiscal would be instructed to have the complainer brought up for trial at a future day. Under the circumstances the penalty would be as lenient as the ends of justice would admit. The Provost then concluded some judicious advice as to future good behaviour, by imposing sentence, which was a fine of 2s 6d or four days imprisonment. The other panel was then placed at the bar, and having, with the consent of the fiscal agreed to hold the evidence as repeated, she received a similar sentence. The hearing of the case occupied more than an hour, and from the large attendance in Court it appeared to have excited some interest in the Burgh. Both fines we understand were paid.

1854

East of Fife Railway – well done the fishermen of Cellardyke! They have purchased shares in this undertaking to no less than £800!

1857

A public meeting of the inhabitants of East and West Anstruther and Cellardyke was held in the town hall of east Anstruther on Friday last. The hall and staircase were densely crowded, and a great number were unable to gain admittance…….. the committee had now surmounted all local obstacles to a united effort by all the burghs for a common  ‘Union harbour’; the extended harbour works to be in connection with the present Anstruther harbour; the town council of East Anstruther had consented to surrender the harbour revenues on certain conditions,  the fishermen of Cellardyke also had a public meeting and agreed to abandon Craignoon scheme, and to devote the £500 they had already collected, and to tax themselves at the rate of 1s 6d a week per boat, if a harbour in connection with the present Anstruther harbour, and sufficient for their wants could be secured, and the managers of West Anstruther also gave the scheme their hearty approval.

1863

Since Tuesday week none of the boats engaged in the white fishing have ventured out, owing to the severe gales of easterly wind and a heavy swell….. The fleet of large boats belonging to Cellardyke at present engaged in Line fishing amounts to thirty eight. Besides these, five or six yawls chiefly manned by old men and boys pursue the fishing in the Forth.

1866

Contemplated Fishing Company – We hear it is rumoured that owing to the low prices realised for fish as compared with other articles of food, the Cellardyke fishermen are proposing to form a company amongst themselves for the purpose of buying and curing fish for market. If the scheme were entered into with spirit and union, there is no doubt it could be easily  set a going in Cellardyke, although we rather suspect that the project has, in the meantime at least, no other foundation than natural discontent at the present low rates. With an improved market, however, we may anticipate a more friendly relationship between our fishermen and fishcurers, whose returns of late have been less profitable than is sometimes alleged.

In the case of John Gilchrest, shoemaker, Cellardyke, against John jack fisherman there, considerable sensation was caused by the following incident:- The defender, having expressed his willingness to take the oath, the same was administered, and the first clause repeated in the usual way, but, on the second one being given, the Sheriff was interrupted by the defender crying out ‘Hould on a bit.’ The Sheriff again repeated the clause, but the persistent fisherman, without waiting to take breath, continued his remonstrance ‘Tak time; hould on a bit’ and the third, and even fourth repetition, had to be made, and that not without the decisive tone of authority, before the objections of  the defender were stopped and the proceeding resumed their ordinary course.

Export of barrels – for some time past large quantities of white herring barrels have been shipped by our curers. Most have been sent to Yarmouth or Lowestoft, but a considerable number have also been forwarded to various parts of the West Coast of Scotland and England…. As many as 5000 or 6000 barrels are supposed to have already been dispatched by the Anstruther and Cellardyke curers (by railway companies charging 32s 6d per ton, eighty barrels being computed as a ton) . Although we cannot pretend to universal accuracy, we think we are warranted in stating the number of barrels at present in store in the two towns at about 14 000, which it is not unlikely will be nearly doubled by the commencement of the Lammas fishing of 1867

1867

P T Thomson, general Draper Cellardyke. Has always on hand a large assortment of ladies’ and children’s, hand sewed stays, deserving every public attention.

1868

On Saturday last the large old tenement situated at the Harbour of Cellardyke, belonging to the heirs of the late MR John Salter, was exposed in the town hall there. The upset price was reduced from £140 – £130, but no offer was received and the sale was consequently adjourned. This curious old house is one of the most remarkable in the East of Fife. It was built 200 years ago by Andrew Bruce, The Celebrated Bishop of Orkney, who was at the time minister of Kilrenny, having been appointed as such in 1665, in room of Mr Robert Bennet, who was deposed for his covenanting principles. Like the houses of the period, it is built on arches of strong masonry, and although much dilapidated by time and use, it still shows traces of its former consequence and grandeur.

On Saturday evening several shopkeepers in Anstruther and Cellardyke were imposed upon and defrauded of various sums of money by the following bold and systematic stratagem. A rather handsome well-dressed man, accompanied by a woman of equally unexceptionable appearance, entered the shops after dark to make sundry purchases. For the purpose of either paying for the goods or obtaining change, the accomplished sharper would place a five shilling piece or a one pound not upon the counter, at the same time asking the shopkeeper to show more of his wares, or otherwise trying to engage his attention by all the artifice of a ready and practised swindler. While thus confused or thrown off his guard, the shopkeeper of course was easily tempted into a mistake when counting the money, which was the particular object aimed at. In the case of a draper in the west end of Cellardyke this was done by first asking change for a half sovereign. This was no sooner done and the silver counted down on the counter than the wily rogue, with a politeness that was not to be refused, asked back his gold coin and begged to have silver taken in exchange for a pound note, at the same time placing another 10 shillings beside the sum already lying on the counter. The worthy draper seeing the change for the pound before him, but forgetting about the half sovereign which in the meantime he had returned, allowed his exceedingly frank and civil visitors, to bow themselves out of the premises, and did not perceive the fraud passed upon him until it was too late. On Monday however several complaints were made by aggrieved parties to Police Constable Sharp, who immediately proceeded in search of the suspected swindler, whom he traced to Leven. There the fashionable scamp was apprehended in the course of the evening, when he was conveyed back to Anstruther ‘lock up’ and detained until next morning when he was removed by first train to Cupar Sheriff court.

1826

The inadequate supply of fish in the Edinburgh Market has long been a subject of general complaint …… For a great portion of the year the Newhaven fishermen are engaged with the herring fishery, during all which interval our markets are entirely destitute of white fish…… The plan by which Edinburgh is at present supplied with fish is defective in every particular. The fish are brought from a great distance, being generally purchased by the Newhaven fishermen from the boats of Cellardyke, Anstruther, Dunbar and Eyemouth, They are either brought to market by water or they are carried on the backs of women exposed to the weather, and to many other casualties, no attention being given during this process to anything like cleanliness….

1828

The body of a man supposed to be one of the unfortunate crew of the boat from Cellardyke that lately upset, was found on the beach at St Skeoch, near Boddin, on Monday.

1829

The Commissioners for the Herring Fishery are anxiously seeking to extend the interests of that important branch of national commerce and have just contracted for improving the fishing harbour at Cellardyke.

1832

Cholera – In Cellardyke, we understand the disease prevails to a considerable extent. The malady appears now to have established itself generally throughout the country

1841

Alexander Jack, Fisherman of Cellardyke was placed at the Bar, accused of assaulting his uncle James Watson, senior, late of Dundee, now residing in Cellardyke, to the effusion of his blood. Jack pleaded not guilty as libelled, and sentenced him to pay a fine of £4 sterling, or three weeks imprisonment in Kirkcaldy jail –  fine paid.

1847

Marriages – At Anstruther on 5^th isn’t, by the Rev. Mr Craig. Mr Robert Fowler, to Jessie, youngest daughter of Mr David Deas, Cellardyke.

1849

Among the victims of that fatal disease which now rages throughout the length and breadth of our land cutting off old and young in its merciless career, was one woman living in Cellardyke, with whose end a melancholy and repulsive incident is connected, which we are about to relate. It seems from careful industry, she had, by selling fish ( for she was a fishmonger) or by some other means unknown, realised the enormous sum of 3157 9s, while she passed in the neighbourhood as a poor miserable wretch, having scarcely wherewithal to satiate her stomach with the meanest food. Accordingly, when she and her son were seized with the disease, no person would look near them, except the Doctor, who was in duty bound to do so; and she anticipating that her end was approaching, gave him the key of the lock where in the treasure was safely secured, and told him that he might prescribe anything in the shape of medicines he chose however expensive, as she would see it paid if she lived, and if she died he might know where to find payment. Being so assured, he ordered wine and other restoratives, which so acted upon the frames of her and her son, that a cessation of the disease was the consequence and the medical man declared them in a state of recovery, and he afterwards visited but seldom and far between. Her son being stronger than her was soon able to run about; and he being an insane creature, did not mind his mother, but ran wildly about at his leisure. She, poor woman, not being able rise and take nourishment herself, and having no person to give it to her, is said to have actually died of want. But this is not all, so long as her riches were unknown in the world, she had no friend or relative upon the earth, but as soon as it became generally known that she had left such a sum behind her, her relatives crowded about her corpse in abundance, like vultures, seeking for a portion of the glittering treasure, inasmuch as they knew that her son could not inherit it, being an illegitimate child… Such is the way the world goes…

Cholera – Since our last the ravages of this disease has generally somewhat abated its fury, except in one family, which has had four of its members snatched from out the circles. There have been eight cases in all since our last, five of which have been fatal. It is an interesting fact, and on worth being recorded, as showing that cleanliness is the principle and only remedy for fortifying a town against the ravages of this blighting epidemic, and, moreover, its truthfulness has been clearly and fully exemplified in Cellardyke.  …. Except in the case of Robert Davidson, of whom his children were cut off. The house of that family, which had four of its members devoured by the strong hand of death is just a nest of filth and dirt, where plagues and pestilences revel in their proper element, and exercise their potent and withering influences with the most fearful effect.

Since the 6^th September when it first broke out here until the 6^th October a period of thirty days 53 cases, 23 recoveries and 39 deaths, making one death each day…

David Watson, a fisherman in Cellardyke was charged with culpably, wickedly and recklessly throwing a quantity of boiling or burning tar upon the persons of Thomas Bella and David Wood, each about nine years of age, and both residing in Cellardyke, whereby they were seriously injured in their persons. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to pay a fine of 31, or undergo twenty days imprisonment.

1922

Mr John G Moncrieff, son of Mr and Mrs W Moncrieff, George Street Cellardyke has been promoted manager of Messrs Richards Audit Company, Windsor, Ontario Canada. Mr Moncrieff served his apprenticeship in Anstruther and emigrated to Canada in 1912.

A firm of American lawyers have been in communication with Mr Alexander Edwards, fisherman Lossiemouth, regarding an immense estate acquired by one of his forebears who died nearly half a century ago. The letter went to MR Edwards as the oldest descendant but there are of course, other relatives, with equal claims. The wealth waiting to be apportioned to the rightful heirs has swollen to the extraordinary figure of 100 million pounds, and the vastness of the accumulating interest has made it essential that an early decision must be given to its disposal..

14 named claimants mainly in Aberdeenshire, – also Mrs Georgina Macleod, or Watson, Cellardyke……

1923

The steam drifter White Queen (Skipper Moncrieff, Cellardyke) arrived at Anstruther with 70 Cran of Herring. The catch had first of all been taken to Hartlepool and was purchased over the phone by Messrs R Melville and sons, Cellardyke at £1 per cran.

Cellardyke fishermen have formed a committee to act in cooperation with Mr J Duncan Millar, MP for East Fife, during the crisis in the herring fishing industry.

 The committee have drawn up a statement urging –

Immediate government aid

Inquiry into the destruction of young herring by the sprat fishers in the Firth of Tay and Forth and;

Better supervision of trawling on the East Coast.

 The committee maintain that the sprat fishers are destroying tons of young herring which, if they were allowed to reach maturity, would leave the shallow waters for deeper waters, and the winter herring at Anstruther would revive.

Applications for exemption from school were submitted as follows – Pittenweem 1 ( recommended) Anstruther 4 ( recommended) Cellardyke 9 and one under 12 years of age (recommended) St Monans 4 (recommended), Crail 26, and 2 under 12, Mr Steel St Monans, moved that those under 12 be refused exemption, Rev Jas A Paterson, Chairman seconded.

Mr Charles Gardner Anstruther moved that they do not stick to the age as given but take the age of the children on the date they commenced potato lifting, Bailie Galloway seconded on a vote the amendment was carried 11 -4. One poor Crail case was refused on account of poor attendance at School.

Desirable Dwelling house, shop and bakehouse for sale by public roup within the National Bank, Cellardyke on 24^th Oct.

The Property on the corner of Fowler Street and Rodger Street all as presently occupied by David Birrell, Baker Cellardyke, Rental £21, feu duty £1 0s 3d, Entry and actual possession at 1^st November. Upset price £700.

1924

4^th Oct

George Corstorphine, 57 George Street, Cellardyke has been missing since Saturday night from the steam drifter Mace at Yarmouth ( Skipper Martin Gardner) , where most of the East of Fife fleet is engaged in the herring fishing. The Mace left Anstruther about a fortnight ago and has been working its way south.

Corstorphine is 34 years of age, and with a family of two, son of Mr and Mrs George Corstorphine 47 Joh  Street.

Fruiterer sues fisherman

‘May god strike me deaf, dumb and blind if I were the thief’ said Alexander smith, lately fruiterer, 45 James Street Cellardyke, in Cupar Sheriff Court today, during the course of his proof in his slander action for £250 against James Brunton, fisherman, 59 James Street.

 The pursuer, who was 58 years of age, stated in the witness box that he was accused by the defender of stealing certain stores consisting of 6 x 1lb tins of condensed mik, 4 x 1lb tines of corned beef, 2lbs of lard, 2lbs of sugar and two jars of Jam, from his boat, the Lasher; while it was lying in Cellardyke harbour.

 The defender denied that he had made an actual accusation against the pursuer, but stated that he had suspicions which he had communicated to him.

 In consequence of the stories that had gone about the pursuers fruiterers business fell off from something like 20s to 25s per day to about 8s per day.

In answer to Sherriff Dudley Stuart, the defender said that he did not believe the pursuer’s denial.

The Sheriff – Do you believe it bow? – I do not believe it yet.

The Sheriff – you know now that he did steal these things from your boat? – I am not sure, you know. All the proof I have is that I got the empty tins on the beach opposite the pursuers house.

The Sheriff, – It seems to me at all events, there is no doubt whatever that you conveyed to him you were accusing him of stealing those things fron the boat? – I never acused him.

The Sheriff, – You come here and say that you have the proof he did it? That is all the proof!

‘I thought it was enough’

The Sheriff, – ‘You think it is enough? – I thought it was enough at the time.

The Sheriff, – Do you still think so? – You people know better about the law than I do, and I thought it was enough

The Sheriff, – You have taken a risk, If you are going to accuse a man of theft who says he knows nothing about your property and didn’t take it, you have to prove it.

The defender – I put the case into the hands of the police at home but nothing was done.

The Sheriff, – Didn’t that make you a little cautious in the matter? – I told the fiscal if there was nothing to be done he would just have to let it drop.

The Sheriff, –  you didn’t let it drop yourself, that is why you are here today. You persisted in accusing him.

The Sheriff, – Your proof is that certain empty tins you had on board your boat were found on the beach infront of his house?- yes

The Sheriff, – That is the whole story, you think that is enough?

Defender – I thought it was enough

The Sheriff, – do you still think so?- yes

The Sheriff, – that’s just the question.

Pursuer stated that when the defender said he could prove that he had stolen the stores he (the pourser) went for a policeman. When the Policeman arrived at the boat the defender would not come from the bottom to speak to him. Defender said to him he would give him 24 hours to put back the stores or give him £2. He told defender he would do nothing of the sort.

 Later in the month defender was in his house when he ‘chapped’ him and said he was surprised at hi putting the blame on him, and defender said the stolen goods came into this dwelling house. On another occasion defender called at his house when two boys were present and said ‘I am going to give you a chance’. By that pursuer understood defender was wanting him to say that he had stolen the goods

James Brunton said that the pursuer came to his boat for some fish on the night he arrived at the harbour and he saw the key of the galley hung up. When the stores were missed he never accused the pursuer of stealing them; but he told him he would give him 24 hours to put them back. When empty corned beef tines were found on the beach opposite pursuer’s house that strengthened his suspicions. He had told him he had his proof.

After hearing the agents his lordship made avizandum (the Sheriff took time to consider the case)

(Judgement 1 week later – Jimmy Brunton was liable and ordered to pay £20 damages, the £250 claim had been extravagantly stated)

9^th Oct

The remains of George Corstorphine were laid to rest in Kilrenny Churchyard yesterday afternoon. Corstorphine went amissing on 27^th Sept, and his body was recovered from the river a week later. The coroner at the inquest returned the verdict ‘found drowned’

Over 100 mourners attended the funeral, Rev J R Lee, minister of Cellardyke parish Church, officiating

1925

While cleaning out the lumber room in Cellardyke town hall. Mr Christopher Muir, town officer, unearthed an old oak chest, which resisted all his efforts to open.

He drew attention of the council to it, and as no key could be found to fit the lock it was decided to force it open. This was accordingly done, and to the surprise and pleasure of those present it was found to contain a complete set of brass measures in splendid condition. These number seven in all, ranging from a half gill to a gallon and are of a most artistic design.

Engraved on the front is the town’s coat of arms, surmounted by a scroll and crown. Beneath are the names of the three bailies who dispensed justice to all and sundry and below the names the date 1826.

It is noteworthy that the name of the Provost is omitted. He may have been a passive resister at the expense incurred by buying these articles.

In addition to these brass measures there was found a four gallon or half bushel measure in copper. The design of this is decidedly quaint, and forms and outstanding feature of the find. An ell measure tipped with brass, and a brass yard measure were also brought to light.

 It is understood that the town council mean to keep the measures in a manner befitting their intrinsic and historic value

1927

Christina Williamson, Cellardyke awarded second class honours in Classics (Ord. MA 1926)

Philip Anderson (12) of 56 John Street has been awarded Royal Humane Society parchment for having saved from drowning at Cellardyke on 28^th July William Mackenzie, aged 5 of 46 John Street who had accidentally fallen into the sea.

Gales are not unusual in September – I lost a tree last night in my back garden

1891

In Cellardyke the fishermen’s out houses and stores for keeping their gear were washed away in more than half a dozen instances, while a garden wall of about 12ft in James Street, next the sea was torn down. The South roof of the Cellardyke Net Factory, belonging to Black and Co, was stripped off and the factory flooded. The fishermen has also an anxious time of it throughout the night looking after their boats, some of which were blown from their moorings.

1892

Owing to the gales of last week a considerable number of vessels have been disabled

1896

Alexander Muir, Fisherman, Cellardyke, was charged for using threatening and abusive language towards the Town Officer and was ordered to pay 15s of a fine or 14 days.

On the representation of Messrs H.B. Macintosh & Son, the local agents of the shipwrecked Mariners Society, Mrs Tawse widow of Alexander Tawse (Murray), who was drowned off Aberdeen some weeks ago has received from that society the sum of £8. The deceased was only a member of the Society for only one year. The annual subscription is three shillings.

1897

For sale the property of the late Provost Martin, Cellardyke. – Well-bred Bay Mare, 16 hands, 7 years old, warranted sound and free from vice, very fast; 1 Waggonette, seated for 6, in good condition, complete; 1 dog cart, 1 new spring cart, 2 sets gig harness, 1 set cart harness, 1 saddle, also stable utensils, to be seen at John Martin & Co Merchants Cellardyke.

George Tarvit (13) apprentice Sailmaker, Alexander Thomson Jnr (12) and David Wilson (10) schoolboys, all residing in James Street Cellardyke, admitted having on the 12^th Sept, stolen a quantity of beans from a field on the farm of Rennyhill, occupied by David Gibb. The Sherriff – Have any of the boys been punished? Mrs Tarvit – yes, twice over, sir (Laughter.) When the two older boys were signing their plea, Mrs Watson addressing her offspring, said – “Dinna Shak’, Dauvit, when ye’re daen’t” The Sherriff admonished the lads.

1898

Our Scarborough correspondents telegraphs;- John Gardiner (28), part owner of the Kirkcaldy fishing boat Maggie Scott KY 27, at present out of Scarborough, has been drowned. The vessel put into West Hartlepool a week ago and the crew, with the exception of John Gardiner, attended an entertainment in town and on returning, missed Gardiner, who was not seen again. Yesterday the crew received intimation that his body had been found in the water. Gardiner belonged Cellardyke.

1901

Sherriff Campbell held a sitting at Duns and took up an appeal by the defender in a debts recovery action by John Martin and Co , Manufacturers , Cellardyke, against William Patterson, fisherman, Eyemouth. Pursuers sued the defendant for £16 6s 9d, being a balance of an account held for goods supplied. The defender pleaded that he was not the debtor in the account, the business being his wife’s, for which he was not responsible. Sherriff Dundas had given judgement against the defender. Mr Ewart, Solicitor, Eyemouth, was heard for the defender and appellant, and Mr Fenton, Solicitor, Stirling for the pursuers. The Sherriff allowed the defender to lodge within 24 hours any accounts or receipts granted by the pursuers in name of Mrs Patterson, and made avizandum of the case.

1902

Death of Mr John Davidson, Peterhead – The hero of a Hundred rescues

………. On the 3^rd August 1876 he rescued three fishermen from The Worthy, a Cellardyke fishing boat, which went on the rocks near the mouth of the south harbour of Peterhead. For this he received a money testimonial on the spot, and was afterwards presented with the Silver medal of the Board of Trade.

1903

Sequestration of Alexandre Cathro, grocer James Street, Cellardyke. Examination of the Bankrupt will take place at the Sherriff Courthouse Cupar 8^th October.

1905

 Ever since the Creation of Anstruther Easter as a Royal Burgh in 1543 its inhabitants have been particularly sparing in the appointment of honorary burgesses. Yesterday Mr Archibald Williamson of Glenogil was added to that number…. Previous to the ceremony Mr Williamson, in presence of a large gathering, turned on the water of a handsome marble fountain which he erected at his own expense, in Shore Street in Memory of his late father, Mr Stephen Williamson. Unfortunately the weather conditions were of a very unfavourable character, rain falling heavily during the forenoon. But this did not deter several hundreds of persons from taking their stand in the vicinity of the fountain, and prior to the appointed hour for the ceremony the Anstruther and Cellardyke Brass band played several inspiring airs….  The inscription ….

Erected to the Memory of Stephen Williamson, sometime Member of Parliament for St Andrews burghs, Born Cellardyke 28^th June 1827, Died Copely Cheshire 17^th June 1902

At Scarborough, on Monday night, an inquest was held to the death of David Stevenson, aged 50, of Cellardyke, ( a sober man) who fell into the harbour late on Saturday night while on his way to board his vessel the Kirkcaldy yawl Integrity. David Coull Nicoll, a young fisherman on the Montrose boat Chevalier Wasa jumped overboard fully dressed and rescued Stevenson, who was lying helpless in the water. After artificial respiration had been continued for some time, Stevenson was removed unconscious to the hospital, where he died five hours later – The evidence showed that when the deceased stumbled into the harbour the light was obstructed by herring barrels. The jury found that the death was due to shock, accidentally received by the immersion and commended Nicoll for his pluck and promptitude – after the sitting of the coroners court, the deceased’s remains were conveyed to the railway station, accompanied by some hundreds of Scottish Fishermen, who were in the town for the herring fishery. The scene at the railway station, where the coffin was placed in the train for the deceased native township, was deeply impressive.

1908

While on her way from Antwerp to Bo’ness the large four masted steam vessel Memphis, an American cattle trade boat, went ashore on the rocks east off Cellardyke. The Weather was exceedingly foggy, although quiet. There was no cargo on board, and the vessel is lying scarcely 100 yards from the shore. She had become outclassed for the cattle trade and was proceeding to Bo’ness to be broken up. … Large crowds of people visited the scene of the wreck.

1912

Hull daily Mail – A wine bottle tightly corked has been washed up from the sea and found on the beach at Mapleton, by Mr T Whylie during the week. The paper was in a good state of preservation and contained the following list of names – peter Murray, Peter Carstairs, William Smith, Tom Tarvit, George Tarvit, James Barclay, Angus McRay, James Murray, Harry Seely, James Smith 41 James Street Cellardyke, the crew of the Venus August 16^th.

1916

During a sever north easterly gale experienced off the Fife coast on Thursday the Steamer Streatham was driven ashore on the rocks near Kilrenny Mill, near Cellardyke. The crew got safely ashore in their own boats but the vessel lies high and dry close inshore, but it is hoped she may yet be got off.

Mr William Smith, Skipper of the steam drifter Olive Leaf, Cellardyke, received a telegram stating that his son, Second lieutenant Thomas Smith, Royal Scots, was missing. This was followed shortly afterwards by another telegram stating that it had been ascertained that he had been wounded in action, and was now in a Red Cross hospital.

Second Lieutenant Smith is only 19 years of age, and an old Waid pupil. He was attending classes at St Andrews University when he enlisted in the Royal Scots and obtained a commission. It is only about a month since he went to the front.

1880

The old tenement situated on the south side of John Street and so long possessed by the family of the late William Wood, was exposed for sale in the Tollbooth there yesterday, The choice situation gave a special value to the timeworn subject, which after a brisk competition, was carried by Mr Alexander Fowler for £318, being an increase of £58 over the upset price. Mr Fowler is understood to have acted for his son in law Mr John Butters, general merchant, who is to erect a place of business on the site.

Our masons are likely to have a breathing time, after a summer which has done so much of the house extension of the locality. We understand however that Mr Thomas Brown is to begin another twin house in Rodger Street where his last speculation has been sold in the one case to Mr John Watson and in the other to Mr Alex Davidson. The price being in both cases three hundred guineas.

1881

On Saturday a public meeting was held in Cellardyke for the purposes of presenting John Montador, Skipper of the boat Francis with the board of trade medal for bravery in saving the lives of the crew  of the fishing boat Monarch of Inverness… Provost Watson briefly detailed the circumstances of the rescue, and concluded by presenting the medal to Mr Montador. Mr Montador, who, although a native of France has long been domiciled  in Cellardyke, briefly replied, stating that he had tried to do his duty and could do nothing more. Provost Anderson stated that he had received from Mr Park Chief Magistrate of Fraserburgh, a sum of 20 sovereigns subscribed there as a slight mark of appreciation of the gallantry shown by Skipper Montador and his crew.

1882

On Monday morning as David Lindsay was going his rounds in Cellardyke with the Brewery Cart, the horse seems to have been startled by an explosion of steam from one of the traction engines employed in beaching the boats. Springing forward to arrest the animal in its headlong course he was unfortunately struck by one of the shafts and thrown as if by the blow of a battering ram to the ground. Nothing at this moment could exceed the alarm and consternation of the bystanders, so general was the impression that he had been killed on the spot. Bleeding profusely from the stroke on the head and shoulders this seemed to be only too well founded, but Drs Flaxman and McCallum being promptly in attendance, his injuries seemed to be less serious than there was at first reason to believe, and he is now, hoped to be in a fair way of recovery. The intrepid conduct of a young fisherman, George Boyter, deserves special record on this occasion. The horse was continuing its mad career along the crowded street when our hero sprang to the cart, secured the reins, and thus averted an all but certain catastrophe.

The following cases were disposed of before the East Anstruther bailies. David Davidson. Skipper Cellardyke was accused of a drunken outcry in East Green. Four convictions were also recorded against the panel, who put in the plea of ’Guilty, sir and I’m sorry for’t’ when being advised by Fiscal Peebles to ‘Abstain from that confounded drink, the cause of so much shame and regret’ he was fined 20s. Another Cellardyke fisherman, David Brown was fined 10s 6d for using threatening  and abusive language while in a like condition towards Mr Alex Wilson, boot and shoemaker, Rodger Street.

1883

The fisher folks of Kilrenny and Anstruther held High Holiday yesterday on the occasion of the opening of the new town hall which has been erected in Cellardyke through the munificence of Mr Stephen Williamson MP and the late David Fowler merchant London and Adelaide, both natives of the burgh. Both in the harbour and in the main street of the town there was a profuse display of bunting, banners at the east end of James Street adjoining the new hall bearing mottos like ‘Welcome home’ and ‘Our Noble Donors’… The cost of the removal of the old building and the new build is thought to have been between £4000 and £5000.

The proceedings connected with the opening of the hall began with a procession of the fisherman’s and other local societies who paraded the principle thoroughfares of the Anstruthers and Cellardyke. Mr Williamson was met by the processionists  on his way to the hall and was carried shoulder high for a considerable distance by six sturdy fishermen.

Bazaar, yesterday a Bazaar was held in the new town hall Cellardyke in aid of the building fund of the new native church at Pietermaritzburgh, South Africa, of which the Rev John Bruce a native of Cellardyke was lately appointed the pastor.

The Magistrates of Kilrenny have announced by placard a reward of £5 for the detection of the guilty party or parties who have maliciously smashed the glass in the windows of the new Town Hall in Cellardyke. One of the windows that of the café, was shattered by a stone thrown seemingly by some thoughtless urchin on the opening day, but another in the first floor was wrecked on Saturday night by a deliberate blow, though it is impossible to conceive the cause which could have led to the mean and dastardly outrage.

If the widely current rumour is to be relied on, several leading skippers in Cellardyke have associated for the purchase or hire of a steam trawler to fish in the North Sea.. The Enterprise is prompted, but not wholly so we hear, by the splendid doings of the steam fleet in Newhaven and Granton.

1885

The old tenement with the turret stair projection, or rather obstruction in the West end of Cellardyke, so long inhabited by Baillie Robert Waddel ‘ the king of the coast’ as he was called in his day, was  exposed for sale in the town hall there on Friday. The upset price was reduced from £350 to £325; but there was no offer, if we except the suggestion to reduce it to £225 by Provost Skinner, attending the possibility in the interest of the Police board. This house was at one time occupied by the father, and so became the birthplace of Mr Williamson MP – on the following day the two tidy tenements erected by our townsman Mr Alexander Wallace, were also exposed for sale by public auction. Each in turn was offered at £370 but as in the above case they failed to obtain an offer, though they are understood to have cost their enterprising builder 400 guineas. The depression, however as regards the state of the property market is not confined to Cellardyke, on the same day a tenement was exposed for a second time in St Monance; but no one put in an appearance as the story goes save the auctioneer and the Clerk.

1887

A lamentable accident occurred in the West End of Cellardyke on Monday, About 8 am in the absence of her mother on some domestic duty, a girl named Janet Murray the daughter of Mr Thomas Murray (Blythe) fisherman stepped so near the grate as to set fire to her chemise. A wild scream brought her mother with the loss of a moment to her side. She was enveloped in flames, but these were so speedily extinguished that it was hoped that she had not been fatally or even seriously injured. Unfortunately the nervous system had received such a shock that, despite every care and attention, she expired on this side of midnight. She was a fine bright girl of about seven years of age and much sympathy is felt for her family.

1888

Thomas Tarvit, Cellardyke fisherman was accused in the Anster Police court of throwing a big stone and hitting Constable White on the heel. It seems that the missile made a black mark on White, but the foot was not so badly injured that he was not able to capture the thrower and clap him inti jail. Tarvit gave the magistrate an explanation of the incident, stating that in the first place the stone was not a stone at all but a brick; and secondly, that he did not mean to strike the constable, but a Pittenweem man who had injured him. In spite of this explanation Thomas was fined 7s 6d and he hasn’t the satisfaction of having struck the Pittenweem man either. Next time he has to throw a stone at anyone that injures him, the Cellardyke man will see that there is not a policeman within range.

If the whisper is true in the milliners shop the bridal song will not be in full chorus till the return of boats from the south, but on Sabbath there were no fewer than four proclamations in the Parish Kirk of Cellardyke. There was a time when such an announcement would have fired fiddler Easson with ecstasy. The forty or fifty couple, every fisher lad in his spruce sea jacket, and his rosy partner like a ship about to be launched, with ribbons of every hue, passing along to fill the streets as with a gush of sunshine, and then the feast and dance, so as to make the rafters dirl with the joy of the young at heart. But alas! for all that has come and gone, like a tale of long ago, seeing that in these degenerate days the event passes without even the next-door neighbour always knowing of the occurrence.

1870

On Wednesday evening as Leslie Brown (Wilson) fisherman, Cellardyke was in the act of descending a stair in the East end of the town, he stumbled, probably in the darkness, and fell foremost to the bottom. When taken up he was found quite insensible, and in that condition taken home. Dr McArthur was soon in attendance, when the skull was found to be fractured, and other injuries of so serious a nature as to render his situation in the highest degree precarious.

Anstruther – After the fishing _ several of the crews having broken up on Wednesday afternoon, and the proceeds of the fishing having been divided, the usual scenes of drunkenness were commenced that night and continued on Thursday. No rows took place here on Wednesday night, but in Cellardyke several slight disturbances were observed, occasioned generally by some one attempting to get a friend, who had been partaking too freely, to go home quietly. On Thursday, a great many of the halfdealsmen left, both by coach and steamer. In the latter there would be nearly 100 of them, the most of them being worse of drink. A fight took place shortly before starting and the Police apprehended an Irishman who had been concerned in it. Immediately on the steamer leaving the quay, a regular melee took place between five or six halfdealsmen on board the steamer, and blows were freely exchanged. The Steamer, however kept on course and the fight lasted as long as she was in sight. Mr Kerr, the manager of the Steam Shipping Company, telegraphed to the superintendent of police at Leith to have a force of constables awaiting the arrival of the steamer, in order to be in readiness should anything have occurred on the voyage.

1872

The Good Templar Lodge of Cellardyke have, with an enlightened and exemplary regard for the benefit of the community, organised a special committee, whose avowed business it is to arrange for the instruction and amusement of its members, with the ulterior view of providing such approved means of popular entertainments as penny readings, lectures, concerts  &c.  This idea, so praiseworthy to those with whom it has originated, has also been adopted in the Anstruther lodge.

The Directors of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Gas Company in consideration of the advance on the price of coals have resolved to raise the price of gas from 6s 8d to 8s 4d the 1000ft. The high profits of this company have long led to much public dissatisfaction, and this step we hear, has induced some leading gentlemen to consider the possibility of starting a new concern, and taking the public feeling into account, such an idea may not be without some practical results.

1874

This season our East Fife Crews which are estimated at over 300 from St Monans to Cellardyke, which alone sends out about 170, have had their great rendezvous on the Buchan Coast , where as at Aberdeen they have met, it is gratifying to notice, with a higher average success than on any other season on record…

The Crew of a Cellardyke fishing boat, which arrived at Anstruther on Wednesday evening reported a narrow escape which four of their number had from drowning while on the voyage home. On arriving opposite the village of Cove , it became necessary for the crew, which consisted of Andrew Brown, the skipper, David Keay, James Thomson (whose wife was also on board) and two halfdealsmen from Skye – to hoist the mainsail, and while this was being done the mast suddenly broke over the middle and fell into the bottom of the boat. In its fall it knocked four of the crew into the sea, leaving Keay, who is an old man, and the woman, the sole occupants of the boat. Notwithstanding that his leg had been badly injured by the falling mast, Keay succeeded in getting one of the men in to the boat by throwing rope to the crew who were drifting away from the vessel,  (his efforts at first were somewhat impeded by Mrs Thomson, whose frantic cries for her husband confused him) and with his assistance the others were ultimately saved, but not until they had become greatly exhausted by their efforts to keep above water., by fitting up a second mast the crew succeeded in reaching home in safety.

The Local fishermen’s season in the north has been very successful with the average over the Cellardyke Fleet £200, which would represent a total sum of £35 000

1875

Yesterday Afternoon a young man named James Imrie, residing at 34 James Street, Cellardyke, committed suicide by hanging himself in a stable. He was 24 years of age and for some time has been the sole support of his parents, no cause can be assigned for the rash act.

Pittenweem

A splendid modelled fishing boat, which has been built by Mr Fulton here, was launched from his building yard on Wednesday afternoon, this is the third boat that Mr Fulton has built since he commenced business here, all of which have been on a carvel principle, which is now being most approved of by the fishermen. The boat is one on which great amount of care has been bestowed, in modelling her for fast sailing. Several parties were anxious to acquire her, and she has been bought by Mr James Wilson Cellardyke. During the launch a rather serious accident happened, whereby one of our fishermen, named David Taylor, received severe injuries. While the boat was being drawn over the foreshore, one of the chains at the stern post gave way, owing to the heavy strain upon it. One of the ends of which struck Taylor under the chin, which felled him to the ground, whereby he sustained a severe fracture of the right arm and had to be taken home.

1876

A thinly attended meeting of the congregation of Kilrenny Parish Church was held the other evening, when the Rev Dr Christie referred to the necessity of a mission church being erected in Cellardyke in order to obviate the inconvenience felt in inclement weather by old and young persons residing there in consequence of the distance to Kilrenny..

1878

Kilrenny School board – The Chairman, Bailie Sharp reported a donation of £5 from Mr Fowler, which had been expended on illustrations for the Infant School. He also submitted the account for maps, and likewise a large terrestrial globe for the new school in Cellardyke. The teacher Mr Barbour who was present, next gave a list of conceived requirements, which as in the case of a clock and seats were granted, but others including play shed were referred. It was agreed to withdraw the female assistant from Kilrenny, to the Cellardyke School, and it was further resolved as in the case of Anstruther to collect fees in advance.

1879

A Chapter of Crime in the East Neuk

The Magistrates of Kilrenny held a burgh court yesterday when Alexander Ross and Margaret Boyd or Ross, his wife, were charged with a breach of the peace and assault (this seems to have been a neighbour’s row), at the complaint of Isabella Kinnear, residing in Upper Kilrenny. The couple pleaded not guilty, but being convicted on evidence were each fined the sum of 7s 6d – Walter Myles, carter, Cellardyke was committed on a similar charge, at the complaint of Mr Alexander Blyth, and being an aggravated nature, he was fined the sum of 15s. The Magistrates of East Anstruther held a court on the same day, when John Scott, Carter, Cellardyke was charged with furious driving, and also with using unseemly language to the Police Constables. He pleaded not guilty, when witnesses were called by the Fiscal. One of these John Elder, Carter, prevaricated so much (Elder had such a ‘treacherous memory’) that, by order, of the provost, he was taken into custody. The charge against Scott was found proven and he was sentenced to a fine of 24s or 14 days in Jail.

Robert Trail, carter Cellardyke, and William Collins brick maker, were charged with a breach of the peace, but the latter only appeared and was fined in the mitigated penalty of 7s 6d. Warrant was also granted for the apprehension of Trail, and also against Alexander Montidore, fisherman, who was called to answer a similar charge, his absence being explained by reason of him being at sea. Before rising from the bench the Magistrates ordered the old carter, John Elder, to be placed at the Bar, when after a pointed reprimand by the Provost, who dealt with the very serious nature of the offence which he had committed, was set at liberty.

For sale Prize Poultry – Silver Polands, cocks and hens, cockerels and pullets, all prize winners – cheap, also Lop eared Rabbits, 2 East Forth Street, Cellardyke.