The Cellardyke Echo

1830

One of the labourers at Cellardyke harbour got the fore lith of his thumb completely taken off by the chain of the crane on Monday Night; he was not otherwise hurt and is doing well.

1837

St Andrews – On Wednesday se’ennight about three o clock in the afternoon while our fishermen were at sea drawing their nets, they saw a sloop standing to the southward, and which had apparently sailed from the Tay, suddenly capsized by a squall of wind. A Cellardyke fishing boat, which was not far off, immediately bore down upon the vessel and arrived at the sport just in time to rescue the crew from a watery grave, for she filled so rapidly that her bows were already underwater and the crew perched on the taffrail, from which they escaped into the boat. We have not heard the vessel’s name, but we learn she belongs to Alloa. She had a square topsail, and appeared to be in ballast trim.

1844

At midnight on Thursday 16^th May the boat William of Cellardyke, George Smith, Master, was swamped in a sudden squall of wind from the north east, while at the white fishing about 12 miles south east of the Bell Rock, and all on board perished, The crew consisted of eight persons, six of whom were married, and have left widows and families. The whole of the families being in very destitute circumstances, it has been resolved to open a subscription for their relief, and a few of the inhabitants have consented to act as a committee for procuring subscriptions and seeing the funds properly laid out for the widows and orphans behoof. The Rev Dickson of Kilrenny has consented to act as chairman of the committee; and we sincerely hope that they may be able to obtain some relief for the benefit of these destitute individuals.

A halibut was exhibited in Dundee Market, which attracted the attention of hundreds. It measured six feet in length three feet across the broadest part of its body and was eight inches in thickness. Its weight was 2 ½ cwt; and it required five men to haul it into the boat at the deep sea fishing. David Keay, Cellardyke a fisherman of fifty years standing declared that he had never witnessed such an enormous fish.

1849

Inverness Courier

I am glad to observe that your Skye correspondent gives a decided and spirited contradiction to the story that the West Islanders are so lazy as to refuse working for good wages, under the guidance of certain missionary fishermen from Cellardyke. They are not likely to be palatable instructors to the clansmen, there is no fusion or amalgamation of races – the language, the habits, the very nature, physical and mental, of the Saxon and the Gael, interpose an insuperable obstacle to their working in concert – rather the latter succumbing to an alleged supremacy of the former. Each of them has great and good qualities, but they were not made for mixing. The stalwart frames, persevering industry, the blunt and rather uncouth manners of the Southerners, are not likely to assimilate kindly with the spare, sinewy, agile figures, the ardent but less continuous exertions, the courteous manners, quick no doubt take offence, but exceedingly sensitive of kindness, and grateful for it, which characterise the Northerns. The one will make incapable teachers the other inapt and unwilling scholars. …….

1852

In addition to the number of mentioned in the last Pittenweem register, we understand that no less than 16 Cellardyke fishermen are preparing to leave this town for Australia. Whether they intend to follow the occupation they have been accustomed to on landing I  that country or apply themselves to the ‘diggins’ we have not learned, but it is an uncommon thing for fishermen to emigrate in such numbers , the like never before occurred in Cellardyke.

1855

Mr Smith, writer, discovered a few days since, that his pigeon house had been forcibly entered by breaking open the door, and a number of young pigeons and eggs abstracted. The services of Gordon our Police officer being called into action, we hear that the result of his examination will bring two boys who live in Cellardyke before the Sherriff

1855

A promising young man named Lindsay, a shoemaker in Kingsbarns, came to a lamentable death ion Friday last. After he had got his dinner he preceded to the sea to have a bathe. Shortly after his clothes were found upon the beach by some girls who seeing no owner for them took them to Kingsbarns, where his employer, who had in the meantime been surprised by his absence, identified them at once as Lindsay’s. A search immediately commenced, when his corpse was found in shallow water near where his clothing had been discovered. The body was conveyed in a cart to his father’s house in Cellardyke. He was an expert swimmer, but from a severe contusion upon his left temple, it is conjectured, that when diving he had come into contact with a stone and received the injury which had stunned him; he had been drowned before recovering his senses.

1943

The wedding took place in Cellardyke Parish Church of Miss Jessie N Doig, younger daughter of Mr and Mrs Robert Doig, 16 Rodger St, and Lieutenant W.J.B Thomson, RNVR youngest son of Captain and Mrs Thomson, Millbank, Anstruther.

Bride who was given away by her father was in white satin, her net veil being embroidered with satin lover’s knots and held in place by orange blossom.

She was attended by two bridesmaids Miss Mima K Doig (Sister) and Miss Margaret Doig (Niece).

Groomsman was Pilot Officer Sydney Thomson RAF brother of the bridegroom.

1945

Last Of Anstruther’s service men who have been captives in Germany have now returned. They are Cpl J Watson Smith. RASC son of Councillor A Smith, New Grange, Cellardyke and Pvte Lock Horsburgh, Royal Tank Corps, also of Cellardyke. A reservist the later re-joined his old regiment at the outbreak of war. Survivor of Calais, he was captured in Greece in 1941 and taken to Stalag XVIIID . Cpl. Smith was taken at Tobruk and after 15 months in an Italian Camp was transferred to Stalag 1VB

1949

New members of Aunt Joan’s Children’s Corner, In Dundee Evening Telegraph – Martin Sutherland, 48 George Street, club number 31048

Two Fife Girls – Mary Bissett, james Street Cellardyke and Margaret Harrison, Buchanan Gardens, St Andrews- have been chosedn for the honour of opening a new Red Cross Convalescent Home fore Children in Kent, They will perform the Ceremony on July 1^st. Miss Bissett is a pupil at Wasid Academy Anstruther, and Miss harrison at Madras College.

1952

The Body of David Stevenson (38), 24 Rodget Street Cellardyke, who was reported missing five weeks ago was recovered from the water at Matthews Quay Aberdeen, yesterday

Stevenson was a member of the Crew of the Noontide which had put into Aberdeen.

1953

Mr David McRuvie, 20 James Street, a deckhand on the Fishing Vessel William Wilson, is at sea, unaware that he has been awarded the B.E.M

He is ‘somewhere in the North Sea’ and will not reach land for about a fortnight. A native of Cellardyke he has served in two wars. During the first war he was on convoy duty. In the second war he was mate of the Wilson Line which was converted to hospital duty for service at Scapa.

He was at Scapa when the Royal Oak was torpedoed and played a prominent part in the rescue operations

1930

A Cellardyke cyclist, Wm Duncan, West Forth Street, had a nasty accident while on the way home last night.

 He was proceeding from Pittenweem and when he arrived at West Anstruther the forks supporting the front wheel of the bicycle gave way, and broke on the jumpy cobbled road.

Duncan was thrown right over the handlebars, and sustained rather serious injuries to his face.

After being attended to by Dr Armour, West Anstruther, he was able to walk home.

News has just come to hand of the death at Binghamton Hospital New York, in his 43^rd year, of Mr William Sheriff, second son of Mr John Sheriff, 61 George Street, Cellardyke.

Mr Sheriff was well known to the fishing communities on the east coast of Scotland as a boat painter of exceptional skill. He left the district almost seven years ago to take up an appointment with Messrs Fowlers’ Store at Binghamton, New York.

While resident in Cellardyke, Mr Sheriff acted as summer cox of the lifeboat, and was in charge of the lifeboat when the crew of the four-masted Carmen was wrecked. During ten months of service as a summer cox Mr Sheriff was responsible for the rescue of two crews.

While the motor boat, Pathfinder, belonging to Mr James Watson and Mr Peter Smith, Cellardyke, was being overhauled, the engine backfired and started a Blaze.

Flames ran along the lining of the vessel and amid dense clouds of smoke desperate attempts were made to extinguish the fire with water.

This proved futile, and the flames rapidly crept over the vessel. Fortunately a fire extinguisher was secured in the nick of time and in a few minutes the outbreak was extinguished.

Comparatively little damage was done.

1932

At a police court held in the Town Hall Anstruther, Helen Watson or Thomson, wife of Robert Thomson, fisherman, 8 Urquhart Wynd, Cellardyke, appeared before Ballies W.S. Seath and W.W. Carstairs on a charge of assaulting on the 26^th April at 10.15pm, Mrs Elizabeth Corstorphine and Mrs Jeannie Fair, Cellardyke and on shouting and bawling and committing a breach of the peace

After evidence was led the magistrates found the charge not proven.

1933

The Steam Drifter Mace of Cellardyke, arrived at Aberdeen after having been ashore near Johnshaven.

The Mace was on her way to the fishing grounds when she went ashore during dense fog.

 A kedge anchor was put out and with the rising tide the vessel was refloated about half an hour later. The Mace was making no water and did not appear to be damaged.

1934

A whist drive organised by the Cardinal’s Steps Amateur swimming club was held in Cellardyke town hall last night. 31 tables being engaged in play. Mr D MacIntyre, president of the club, acted as MC and at the close of play Provost Carstairs announced the prize winners.

Ladies, 1. Miss M Wilson, 2. Mrs Motion, 3.  Miss M Carstairs; consolation, Miss N Munro, Gentlemen 1 Miss N Barclay (as a gentleman) 2 Mr A Bowman, 3. Mr T Dunsire; consolation Miss Duncan (as a gentleman).

1937

An old local craft is being revived at the East Fife Fishing Villages of Cellardyke where boat builders are busily engaged in meeting orders for boats. The Industry has been dormant for a number of years and the revival is due to the enterprise of Provost Carstairs, who is a member of the Fishery board, and a number of other local men. Within the next fortnight two vessels will be completed for the Manx Government which is subsidising its home fishing fleet. The Boats are the most up-to-date type of Ring net fishing boat. They will be named Manx beauty and Manx Fairy respectively. Their graceful lines have been admired by the whole fishing community in the neighbourhood. They can be run at half the cost of the steam drifter, a type of fishing craft that the ring net boats are generally replacing. The old yard where the industry had disappeared from a number of years ago was up until recently was cultivated as a garden.

1938

Two yawls collided at the entrance to Eyemouth harbour on Saturday Morning, one of the vessels, the Spanish Castle, being severely damaged, mainly in the port bow.

The Craft was manned by Skipper William Patterson, of Eyemouth, and his crew, who a month ago were saved from their blazing boat, Spes Bona, at the fishing grounds.

On Saturday Morning the Spanish Castle which Mr Paterson acquired about a fortnight ago was returning from a night’s herring fishing, and a Cellardyke yawl, Star o’ Hope which had been engaged in great line fishing, was leaving the harbour when the two vessels collided.

In a Sinking Condition the Spanish Castle crawled into the harbour. Pumping operations were carried out and temporary repairs effected. The Star o’ Hope was able to continue on its journey to Cellardyke.

Mr Patterson and his Crew have certainly been dogged by misfortune lately, and this accident will result in the boat being idle for several weeks during the execution of repairs.

1938

George Dunsire, Fish merchant 28 James Street, Cellardyke was fined £2 for permitting William Graham motor driver, East Green Anstruther to drive a motor van without an insurance policy, and graham was admonished for driving it.

1939

Fined At Cupar Sherriff Court for Driving offences …. Alexander Brand Hughes .. 4 Dove Street, License holder offence 10s fine…

The rescue of a Child from drowning in Cellardyke harbour was recalled at Govan Police Court yesterday when the rescuer Alfred Menhennet Outhwaite, Govan, was presented with the parchment certificate from the Royal Humane Society. He had been walking with a companion on March 1 when he saw two children playing near the harbour wall. Shortly afterwards he heard a scream, and, on looking back noticed that one of the children had disappeared. A boy of four years old John Hodge Dickson had fallen twelve feet into the water. Although a non-swimmer Outhwaite jumped into the water still wearing his heavy overcoat and managed to grasp hold of the sinking child. Struggling to keep afloat, he ultimately caught hold of a harbour rope, and child and man were hauled to safety. Had Outhwaite not acted so promptly the child would probably have been drowned

Members of the Herring Industry Advisory Council appointed under the herring industry act 1938 were announced yesterday.

One of the members announced was John Gardner, Cellardyke Skipper and part owner of a Drifter, Director of the Scottish Herring Producers Association

Widower Weds Widow

The wedding was confirmed by Hon. Sherriff David Struth at Cupar today of Joseph Brunton Wilson, widower a fisherman residing at 12 James Street Cellardyke, and Isabella Herd Smith Wilson or Thomson, widow, Kirkgate, Pittenweem.

1902

The Cellardyke Fishing boat Jane and William arrived at Anstruther last night with one of the crew, George Murray (Geddes), Suffering from small pox. As soon as Murray was conveyed home a doctor ordered his removal to Ovenstone Hospital, the rest of the crew were vaccinated and the boat fumigated, while the different houses of the men were all sprayed with fumiline. The attack is a mild one and it is thought there will be no further outbreak. The Boat had been fishing at North Shields for some weeks, it is surmised that Murray must have been in contact with other cases.

At Cellardyke Burgh Court Mrs Maxwell Kilrenny pleaded guilty to failing to comply with an attendance order securing the regular attendance of her son and daughter at school, she admitted she had lost control over them.  The magistrates ordered the children to be sent to an industrial school until they were 14 years of age

1906

A Cellardyke fisherman named David Moncrieff was drowned through being washed overboard off Shields.

1914

In view of the retiral of Mr Barbour head teacher, Cellardyke at the close of the season at the age limit and of Mr McFarlane assistant, who leaves for China, the board agreed that the succeeding head teacher commence with a salary of £200 rising in 5 years to £250 at the rate of £10 per annum and the assistant commence at £110, rising to £130 at the rate of £5 annually.

Section from the ADVERT – –  Kilrenny School board – Wanted male certified teacher for the supplementary class of Cellardyke public School, singing and drawing essential and navigation desirable…….

1916

Rewards for Bravery in Scotland – Royal Humane Society

Testimonial to David Black, James Street Cellardyke, a plucky lad of 15 for saving another boy from the sea at Cellardyke on April 21^st.

1918

Government Contracts for local firms

Oilskins- J Martin & Co Cellardyke, R Watson & Co Anstruther.

1919

A girl named Orr, employed at Martin and Co’s Oilskin factory, sustained severe injuries while at work on Saturday. Her apron caught in the machinery and before the workings could be stopped she was carried several times round the shafting, with the result her clothes were badly torn. When the machinery was stopped the unfortunate girl fell to the ground floor and sustained severe injuries to her head.

1922

 (this was an unclear article I have tried to make full sense of it)

Father and Son Fined at Cupar

Sequel to a £20 000 fire at Cellardyke Oilskin Factory of J Martin & Sons, today in Cupar Sherriff Court Joseph Buttars Ritchie, restauranteur and his son Joseph Ritchie shop assistant 20 East Green Anstruther, were charged with having on 2^nd or 3^rd May broke into the factory premises  at Mill ???? Occupied by Robert???der & Co and stolen there from oilskin coats and hangers. The pleaded to simple theft and this was accepted.

Acting for the Accused Mr Tasker, Cupar, stated that on the night in question there was the fire at Martin’s Factory, a lot of oilskins were thrown on the road. Many of them were taken to the store. For some unknown reason he could not understand the accused broke into the store and stole some of these, but did not get away with them as they were discovered by the police and the coats were recovered. These men had been in trouble before and they could not understand what possessed them to do such a foolish thing. The elder had a wife and five of a family and was in a good way of business.

The Fiscal said it was an exceptionally bad and mean theft.. On the night of the fire the loss to the firm was over £20 000. In course they got people to carry away as much of the goods as possible. An insuring firm offered to store anything saved from the factory and a large number of goods were taken there.

Immediately after dark a great deal of looting took place and in consequence the police took charge of the store. Concealed themselves and while there Ritchie and his son came in. Ritchie was heard to say ‘Take all you can’. When chased by the police they threw away a number of the goods but when the police reached them an overcoat was got there, showing they had been twice to the store. Through Theft the firm reckoned that they had lost much and the value of the stuff taken away was £5 10s. Accused were well ???? and there was no excuse. They were fined each £5, or ??? days imprisonment.

1923

For Sale by Private Bargain, on retiral of the owner

The Cellardyke Oilskin Factory, 31 – 39 James Street Cellardyke, with the Oilskin Manufacturers business carried on during the last 40 years, by Alex Black & Co (inventors and sole manufacturers of the Patent canvas buoy)

The buildings are in excellent order and include ample storage, are equipped with all the necessary Machinery, driven by steam power. The present stock will be taken over by the purchaser at mutual valuation….

1929

John Duncan, Boat Tavern, Cellardyke was charged at Cupar Burgh Court on Saturday with contravening the licensing laws by supplying two men with glasses of beer seven minutes after closing time.  A plea of not guilty was tendered and the trial set for 25^th September.

1885

Robert Watson, pleaded guilty to what appears to have been a neighbours quarrel, he, being under the influence of liquor, kicked the door, and broke one of the panes in the window of Alexander Wood, for which he was fined 10s 6d. Two young fishermen John Henderson and George Tawse, were accused of a breach of the peace by being noisy and quarrelsome in drink at an early hour on Sabbath 26^th ult.

1888

The crew of the Cellardyke Boat, Maggie Reid had an exciting adventure at sea. While the gale was raging like a whirlwind the big mast snapped by the deck. ‘God be praised’ might well rise on thankful lips for the escape of boat and crew, but the recovery of the spar was the one chance of regaining the land, It was anxiously watched by Skipper Henderson and his crew, till the storm was so far spent that they were able to hoist it on board. A carpenter and his tools were needed, but like the old fathers of Cellardyke, who when cast away on a desert island, built a boat from the wreck of their ship, and so escaped to a friendly port, the crew in this case, with no better implement than the steerage axe, so fashioned the broken mast to the step that they once again set sail to reach their own firesides on the Sabbath.    (The Maggie Reid, KY 1632, was about 50ft, Owned by Daniel Henderson who built my house in West Forth Street, she was named after his second wife. Daniel was lost in 1900 with the Bernicia.  Maggie, Margaret (Reid) was already the Widowed Mrs. Thomas Brown, her first husband was lost with the Great Line boat Helen along with her brother Thomas Reid and 6 other crew  10 May 1865, Her father was Thomas Reid, Fisherman and Maggie’s Mother was  Agnes Reid nee Birrell , Agnes Reid Birrell lost 2 husbands, two sons, two son in laws, two brothers and two brother in laws and numerous other relations to the sea)  

1889

On Friday, Christina Paterson Danks, Schoolmistress, Cellardyke, committed suicide in a house in Nelson Place Stirling, by cutting her throat with a razor. It appears that the deceased had been suffering from nervous prostration and insomnia for some time, but nothing serious was anticipated. For the last week or two she resided at Stirling for the sake of the change of air, staying in the same house as her sweetheart. Miss Danks was 26 years of age and was a very amiable disposition. She had been appointed six years ago, having previously been in Cowdenbeath. She had been ailing for the last six weeks, and had to provide a substitute, She was always held in great respect by the members of the School board and the public, being a special favourite with the parents. Being Ill with spinal disease it is supposed she must have committed the rash deed in a temporary fit of insanity

1891

Yesterday Chalmers memorial Church was opened for public worship ………… The Architect was Mr David Henry, who designed Waid Academy and Cellardyke Town hall.

1892

Anstruther – Provost Anderson reported that Mr R Williamson, Cellardyke, had received the contract for laying the concrete on the new iron footbridge between the two burghs, the price was £18 10s.

1894

 7^th May,

Considerable anxiety is felt in Cellardyke and Pittenweem at the absence of ten deep sea fishing boats, which left for the fishing ground this week. A severe storm was encountered by the fleet about 200 miles from land, but all are accounted for but ten – five belonging to each port. Six steam liners which left Anstruther this morning took away extra provisions to give missing crews if successful in coming across them. There are seven men in each boat, and if no word is received by this evening, the fishery board is to be requisitioned to send a cruiser in search of them in the North Sea.

8^th May

During yesterday four of them turned up, but up til 4 o clock our correspondent telegraphed that six boats were still missing

Two of the six missing Cellardyke and Pittenweem boats have arrived home safely, other two were spoken in the North Sea on Saturday riding at their lines, and nothing has been heard of one boat belonging to Pittenweem and another to Cellardyke.

9^th may

The Smiling Morn of Cellardyke was reported from Aberdeen yesterday morning, while the Resolute, Betsy Hughes and Minniehaha  of Pittenweem , all arrived in the Firth in the course of the Day. The crew of the latter state that they saw the J.R.Welch, (Skipper, James Smith (Hamilton) working her gear on Sunday and she was expected at any moment. The Glengarry has not been seen since Saturday, but as she was lying at her lines there is no doubt felt that she will also put in an appearance shortly. As was anticipated, they had all held onto the great lines in order to save them, and the storms gave no chance to haul them till Sunday

(Late edition newspaper)

All the Cellardyke and Pittenweem fishing boats have now been accounted for the last two arriving in Anstruther late last night. The fishermen report very narrow escapes from the mountainous seas which swept over the boats, while others had almost exhausted their provisions and were living on Short allowances since Sunday

1895

The Vine belonging Cellardyke arrived at North Shields this morning after undergoing rough experiences. The Crew gave a thrilling account of their adventures in the storm. It appears they had been carrying on Fishing operations since 13^th . They were 85 miles from the Tyne bearing East by North from Tynemouth castle. The wind blew with great force from the North East. The crew were unable to save their Lines, and lost all but two of them. The boat’s head was turned for the land in hopes of reaching the Tyne. They managed however to get within half a mile of the mouth of the Harbour, but on account of the tremendous seas which were running it was found dangerous, and the boats head was accordingly put to seas. Upwards of 300 fathoms of rope and chain were put out to keep the boat’s head to sea. The Men state that the seas flooded the cabins and it was a miracle that none of them were washed overboard.

(By sheer coincidence The Vine KY 417 was owned and Skippered by the same Daniel Henderson,  It was the vessel that replaced his Maggie Reid  KY 1632 in which was then Skippered by his nephew Andrew. Andrew and his two sons were blown up by a mine when fishing off St Abbs in 1917)

1897

The Partnership of Robert Watson and Andrew Mitchel trading as Robert Watson and Co. was dissolved.

A new Partnership trading under the same Company name was set up by Alexander Watson and Andrew Mitchell

1871

At a meeting of Kilrenny town council communication was received from the post office authorities intimating that the telegraph would be extended to Cellardyke immediately. The clerk also read a petition from the inhabitants of Kilrenny requesting the council to take steps to provide a supply of water for domestic purposes, the former source having become impregnated with oil and other impurities from the Paraffin Oil works at Pitcorthie. The lessee of these works Mr A G Yool having promised a subscription of £5 towards defraying the expense of making a well, the meeting appointed the Magistrates to inquire as to the most suitable site and have the grievance remedied as soon as possible ( Shale Oil extraction was as controversial then as the fracking method of extraction today)

1872

One of the Cellardyke yawls prosecuting the salmon fishing in the firth captured a whale on Saturday. It was supposed that he fish had been chasing a salmon when it got caught in the nets.  Its capture was quite a maritime exploit. Skipper John Gardiner’s net rope was almost torn away by a tremendous jerk, while at the same time the sea, so calm before, began to boil and toss as if the boat was beset within eddying circles of a furious whirlpool. It was about midnight and the astonished fishers were wakened by the true secret of the alarm, as a colossal tail immediately began to lash the water with resistless fury, making it only too obvious that some monster of the deep had become entangled in the gear. Fortunately in addition to his two young nephews who usually accompany him in his fishing trips, Skipper Gardiner in this occasion had the powerful help of his brother, but even with this effective reinforcement, an encounter with so formidable an antagonist in size and fury was so doubtful that Mr Gardiner, thinking, ‘discretion the better part of valour’ proposed to cut away the nets, but he was overruled by his brother and his two sons, the later showed a pluck and resolution beyond their years. A desperate conflict now ensued in the attempt to grapple with the leviathan, which in its maddened efforts to get free, became, of course , more and more  entangled amongst the nets; but in one of its wild gambols the daring fishers succeeded in cleverly fastening a rope round its tail, but the giant was not to be so easily bridled, and was likely to have burst through every complicated environment, when after a fierce struggle, during which the boys nobly took part; even in the wildest sallies and plunges of the enraged kraken, if they could not do more, their encouraging cries ‘Hing on Uncle, Hing on..’ impelled to the watery combat, which was at length so far decided by the stalwart arm of the skipper, who succeeded by a dextrous thrust in planting the boat hook into the whales mouth, which being in this way secured very much like the bull with a ring in its nose, was triumphantly towed into Anstruther harbour alive. It was landed on the slip at the east quay, where shortly afterwards it began to blow and lash the ground violently. Before it died it succeeded in throwing itself over the slip on to the beach, where it was visited by a large number of people in the course of the day. It has a singularly beautiful appearance, its deep slate back and delicately white and sky tinted belly being as clear and glossy as polished glass, while those curious longitudinal folds so like the planking of a herring boat . The fish was a fine specimen of the species known as the rorqual or herring whale, and was fully 15 ½ feet in length. It was purchased by Provost Todd for 45s.

1874

The splendid steamer ‘Heron’ belonging to the General Steam Navigation Co, while on her usual voyage from London to Granton ran ashore below Innergellie on the East Side of Cellardyke. This favourite steamer had sailed from London on the noon of Saturday with a valuable cargo and about 30 passengers.  In the thick fog the lead line was often in use, but Captain Wilson, one of the most valued officers of the company with quarter a century of service, was under the impression that the ship was in the fairway of the Forth when she ran foul of a flat ledge with such a velocity that her bow was raised many inches out of the water.  The engines were at once reversed, but the great way on the ship, and the ebb tide having set in for an hour before, she remained fast as the rock. In this situation she was seen about six in the morning by the crab and lobster yawls, but the captain thought himself justified in the calm state of the weather to take the chance of resuming the voyage with the next tide, and declined any help, though a hoe-sick passenger took the first opportunity of clambering over the ship’s side and gaining terra firma. Crowds of people soon after arrived on the beach, and the interest of course deepened with the attempt to back the ship at full sea, which, proved altogether unsuccessful. Captain Wilson seeing the result, landed his passengers, amongst whom were two ladies on their way to Dunfermline, and two soldiers one belonging the 42^nd the other the 91^st highlanders, who all left with the afternoon train, apparently none the worst either in person or in spirits after their mishaps, although the two ‘gallant defenders of their country’ experienced a second wreck, owing to their conveyance – a fleshers cart- coming to grief at the famous Buckie house corner. The crew of the Heron as soon as the decks were cleared made a vigorous effort to float the ship with the evening tide by shifting the cargo to the stern and also by running out anchors, this was happily accomplished, and by midnight the magnificent steamer was once more breasting the Forth as proudly as ever. She is nearly 220ft long, 600 tons and Clyde built and about 14 years old, is one of the finest steamers on the coast and worth probably over £25, 000.

1875

Robert Christie, carter, Cellardyke, plead guilty to having committed an assault on Alexander Carmichael, also a carter, Cellardyke, during some contention about ‘turns’ on the pier. He plead guilty and was sentenced to a fine of 7s 6d.

1880

An aged spinster residing at Shorehead Cellardyke – Lucy Moncrieff- was found dead by neighbours on Tuesday morning, Living alone, she seems to have risen to begin her duties of the day, but the vital spark had fled almost with the kindling of the fire which burnt brightly on the hearth, while the hand that lit it lay cold and stiff in the grasp of death.

Another Cellardyke fisherman has been drowned, being the fifth since the opening of the present year. The unfortunate mariner was Thomas Watson, son of Thomas Watson (Martin) was washed overboard. He was one of the crew of the Garland, Adam Watson Master. Another of the crew David Watson was washed overboard, but after being fully half an hour in the water he was rescued. While a third member of the crew John Stewart, had his leg broken. Watson leaves a widow and one child.

1881

Norwich Fisheries Exhibition

The telegram announcing that the Jurors after three days deliberation, had awarded the premium of £50 for the best steam fisher to Anstruther Boatbuilder Wm Jarvis, was received with no little satisfaction by his neighbours. Mr Alexander Cunningham (Cellardyke) was awarded a silver medal for a miniature of the handsome boat he is now building for St Andrews owners at Cellardyke shore. It is likewise fitted up with a working model of an engine, and is otherwise complete in all the appurtenances and fittings of a deep-sea fisher. Councillor Millar, (who had until recently been building in Cellardyke), West Anstruther, exhibited a steam fishing smack model, and Alex Thomson a Fifeshire Herring boat (Alex was Millar’s foreman, who later built yawls in Cunningham and Millar’s old yard in Cellardyke) Messrs Martin Cellardyke, obtained a diploma for their fisher apparel and Sharpe and Murray secured a bronze medal for their oilskins and another for their cured herrings.

1883

James Wallace Fisherman was charged at the instance of Kilrenny school board with grossly and without reasonable excuse failing to educate his son john, who is between 11 and 12 years of age. He pleaded not guilty but Mr John Barbour, teacher, Cellardyke, deponed the lad only attended 154 of possible 314 attendances. For his defence he said he did everything in his power to coerce the boy to attend school, but Mr Murray said that this did not relieve him of his responsibility, Wallace was found guilty and fined 5s, David Brown another fisherman was charged with a similar offence in the case of his daughter Euphemia, also of 11 years. Her attendance, according t the teacher was still more irregular, but the panel pleaded that the girl had been required at home like others of his circumstances to wait on her mother during confinement, and also that she had been suffering from a sore throat, although in his own words ‘it is poverty that has brought me here, in so far that for a time, the girl had been kept from school because of the want of clothes and shoes. No man’ he said ‘ was more anxious to have his children educated; but times had been so bad with him and his that he had been thankful to see his children with bread, not to speak of schooling’ Provost Watson defended the course taken by the school board, when the panel was likewise convicted and fined in the sum of 5s.

1855

Post Office accommodation – with the introduction of the national and judicious system of penny postage, greater facilities for the postage and delivery of letters have been adapted for the convenience of the masses in general. Under these circumstances we have often been surprised how Cellardyke containing upwards of 2000 of a population, should have been so long debarred from enjoying the benefit of having a ‘special letter delivery or receiving box’ for the accommodation of the inhabitants.  A short time since, through the exertions of Mr Fowler, our chief manager, the unceasing benefactor of this place, and other influential merchants in the town, a petition was transmitted to the post office authorities, calling their attention to our want of postal arrangements.  The petition was confided to the care of Mr Ellice. MP and the proper authorities having taken a view of it, we are happy to have now to record that a ‘sub post office’ was opened a few days ago, in the house of our respected townsman Thomas Brown….

1857

On Tuesday last four boats belonging to Cellardyke delivered at the quay at Eyemouth from 3000-4000 haddocks each and a large quantity of cod. The total gross of fish delivered from these four boats was nearly 16000 fish.

1865

On the occasion of Captain Robertson the inspector of the lifeboats in connection with the national Lifeboat Institution, being in the district in discharge of his official duties, he had an interview with a number of the Cellardyke fisherman in reference to their proposal to station a lifeboat or coble at Anstruther harbour. In the course of his conversation, he expressed himself as highly favourable to the undertaking, and in order that a boat of the best description for the locality might be obtained, he advised them to delay immediate action, and to deposit the money they had already subscribed into the bank until such time as he had an opportunity of representing and urging their claims upon the Institution.

1866

Wanted – a good second hand SEWING MACHINE, state makers name and lowest cash price. Apply to John Martin, Waterproof clothing manufactory, Cellardyke

1868

The other day as the Cellardyke deep sea going boat, belonging to Mr John Gardiner, was out at the great line fishing, upwards of thirty miles in the offing of Aberdeen, the crew found a large shark entangled amongst the lines, which with much difficulty they hoisted on board, for the purpose of extracting the liver. One of the fishermen by curiosity, opened the shark’s stomach, in which was discovered a fine salmon of about 12 pounds in weight, which could not have been in the shark more than an hour. With the exception of a blemish or two in the middle of the body and tail, as if it had been caught there by the teeth, the salmon was unscathed. On arriving at Anstruther the fishermen divided their prize amongst them, and on it being cooked it proved delicious and savoury.

1869

On Thursday the steam lighter Hemaja, employed at the Union harbour Works, returned from a trip to North Queensferry bluestone quarries, when the crew reported that Robert Anderson, a seaman belonging to Cellardyke, who had charge of the lighter had not been seen since Monday night. According to their statement, the vessel, which sailed from this place early in the morning, had gone into Granton that some repairs might be done on the steam pipe, which having been completed, and the steamer ready to continue the voyage up the Firth, Anderson who is said to have £6 in his possession went on shore to clear the vessel at the dues office. He was last seen about 7.30 in the evening, and not returning after the short time that was required for the errand, his two companions gradually became alarmed, and made enquiries for his safety. As the time wore on these enquiries became more and more anxious, and a search was made on shore, and the harbour near where the steamer was lying was also dragged, but all to no purpose, as no trace whatever could be found of the missing man. Seeing there was no hope of finding him, the steamer sailed from Granton on Wednesday morning, and arrived here as we have said with her cargo, on Thursday about noon. When the circumstance, as was to be expected, caused the greatest uneasiness, amongst Andersons friends.

1923

During the stormy weather which raged in the North Sea on Saturday Morning, George Jack, Fisherman, a member of the crew of the Steam Drifter Breadwinner, fell overboard and was lost.

The occurrence was reported by the skipper on the arrival of the vessel at Anstruther on Saturday. The Breadwinner left North Shields for home on Friday Evening, and when approaching St Abbs head, about 12.30 am, very stormy weather was encountered. A heavy sea caught the vessel, and Jack, who was on deck, clutched a lifebuoy to save himself. Unfortunately the lifebuoy came away in his hand, and in the next plunge the drifter made Jack was thrown into the raging seas.

Endeavours by the skipper to locate the man was impossible owing to the darkness, and after cruising about the vicinity for a time the vessel was headed for home and arrived at Anstruther about 5 am.

Deceased, who was the eldest son of Mr and Mrs W. Jack (Doig), Burnside place, was 36 years of age and leaves a widow and three young children to mourn his loss.

Retiral on account of Ill health.

Member of the town council for 25 years and Provost of the Burgh for 22 years is the unique record of Provost Black, Cellardyke, who in a letter to Kilrenny Town council last night intimated his decision to retire from public service owing to ill health. For 15 years he was Chairman of Kilrenny School board and had been a member of the Parochial board. For thirty years he had been a member of Anstruther Harbour Commissioners. Truly a remarkable record of public service.

1924

Useful, a motor fishing boat of Cellardyke sprang a leak and foundered off the May Island, the crew are safe.

1926

The standard of work in arts and crafts has considerably advanced during the past few years was demonstrated at the exhibition of the East of Fife Arts and Crafts Committee which opened in the Erskine hall in Anstruther yesterday. The Exhibition was opened by Lady Victoria Wemyss.

In the class for crochet Mr Jas Parker, postman Union place, ran Mrs A.D. Mitchell, Lenakel, Cellardyke for first place.

Colinsburgh and rail took the honours for Lace exhibits, but Cellardyke carried everything worth having in the section for rugs made of old wool.

The oil paintings exhibited by Mr. James F Watson, fisherman, Cellardyke were much admired, especially the picture depicting boats in a swell, which brought him first prize. 1^st prize for Shawls Mrs Moncrieff, Cellardyke. Jumpers, Miss E Anderson, Burnside Terrace.. models –  (amateur) 1. W.J. Grubb Cellardyke, 2. David Reid Joiner Anstruther. Toys – Miss L.M Elder Cellardyke, Brown Scone Miss Calder, Dunalican Cellardyke. Tablet, 2^nd prize Miss Agnes Gourlay, 6 Dove Street.

Children’s Prizes

Toys 2^nd place – Annie Laing Cellardyke, Black and White Drawing, Mary Murray class IIa Waid Academy.

1927

The Fishing boat True Love left Anstruther Harbour for the west coast fishing last night. While off the Billowness, one of the crew Martin Tarvit fell overboard and narrowly escaped drowning. The man had been a minute or two in the water before he was missed, but when he was observed Skipper Anderson and one of the crew named Fleming at once plunged into the sea with a rope attached to them, and brought the man on board, not, however, before he was unconscious. The boat was immediately turned back to Anstruther, where Tarvit was medically attended.

The boat belongs to Pittenweem and Tarvit resides in Cellardyke.

1930

Mr John Dick, Cellardyke is to be capped B.S.C.(science) at Glasgow University. He secured first class honours in mechanical engineering and first class honours in electrical engineering.

1932

It is intended to form a branch of the National Party of Scotland in the Anstruther and Cellardyke area. A public meeting will be held with the view to forming a branch.

1934

Provost Carstairs reported that the sanitary inspector had brought to his notice the fact that the back gardens of Fowler Street were flooded through the lack of drainage, the council remitted the question to the housing committee. Bailie Bett recommended that the sewer outfall at the foot of the Town Hall Wynd be extended by about 18 feet owning to the fact that the opening was covered by sand and gravel in its present condition. The council remitted the matter.

1935

Public enquiry into Ring net fishing in the Firth of Forth

David Smith, of Cellardyke, skipper of the Violet Star, said, while the ring nets caught all sizes of herring, the drift net caught only mature herring. In his view it was not possible for drift and ring net fishing to be carried on together without causing damage. If it continued the result would be that the drift net fishing would be cleared out of the area. The Ring net boats only fished in fine weather, and the caused a glut on the market and prices came down.

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

James Watson Skipper of the Gleanaway said he did not think it was possible to keep the drift and ring net boats separate within the proposed area.

David Wood, Cellardyke, Skipper of the Spanish castle, stated that if ring net fishing went on in the bye law area, it would finish the whole of the fishing in a few years’ time. Herring shoals would break up, and the winter herring fishing would be finished.

1937

There were 87 tables at a whist drive held by the employees of John Martin & Co, Cellardyke, in Anstruther town hall in aid of Dundee Royal Infirmary…… In proposing votes of thanks, Provost Carstairs said that up to the end of last year the sum of £430 had been donated towards various institutions, and this year £100 had already been raised by employees.

1938

Cellardyke Church Choir held a concert on Cellardyke town Hall/ The Choir sand Choruses. Contributors were Mrs Blair, Mrs Hosie. Mr W Reekie (St Monans), Miss Isa Cormack, Mr J B Tranwith. Mr Tom Wood, Miss Elizabeth Murray. Mr D Jack and Miss Agnes Carstairs

1940

Announcement of the death of an Anstruther Town Councillor, Mr James Ure Laing, he had been a member of the council since 1932 and gave valuable service as convenor of the fire brigade committee and was also group air raid warden for the burgh. Until recently he carried on a shoe maker’s business in James Street, and had previously had a similar business in School rd. he is survived by his wife, two sons and two daughters.

1941

Mr Thomas Wood, 56 manor Ave, Aberdeen who has had several narrow escapes in the course of his seafaring career is now believed to have been lost at sea. On one occasion during the Great War his mother was notified he has lost his life. He was then serving in the RNR trawler section, and the ship on which he was supposed to be serving was lost with all hands. Mr Wood however had been given special leave before the ship sailed. He was on active service in the Navy for a time during the present war. A native of Cellardyke, he is survived by Mrs Wood and a family of 6.

1942

Births

At the Cottage Hospital St Andrews, Friday 17^th April to Allison (nee Donaldson) wife of Staff Sergeant George R Gardner. 3 Roger Street Cellardyke – a son

1946

A valedictory service was held last night by the congregation of Chalmers Memorial Church, in honour of Miss Euphemia Wilson, Cellardyke who is leaving this country to resume her work with the China Inland Mission, which was interrupted by the war.

Miss Wilson will be returning to the mission field where her uncle died and where she herself started 11 years ago. In spite of two wars – the civil war with the Communists and the struggle against japan. Miss Wilson carried on her mission work until she was forced to flee. Relief finally came 18 months ago, and she came home in furlough.

1951

For sale

Van 8.hp, 3 wheeler for sale, as new registered Dec 31 1950. 1100 miles only. Macleod, baker, Cellardyke

1953

Anstruther Town Council yesterday were faced with a tricky decision – the name to be placed on the notice board for motorists entering the town. Mr CC Henderson, burgh surveyor, said he favoured the coat of arms going on the board, but he wanted to know what name the council wanted on the board.

The official name of the burgh was ‘The United Royal Burgh of Kilrenny, Anstruther Easter and Anstruther Wester,’ that would require a bill boarding.

It was finally decided to have three boards- one indicating Kilrenny, a second with an arrow pointing to Cellardyke and a third with Anstruther.

‘Make the letters large enough to be read’ was Provost Mitchell’s final instruction.

1902

William Deas of no fixed occupation, Cellardyke, was brought before Sherriff Armour on a charge of having (1) on 24^th March on the North Platform of Anstruther Station, assaulted George Oliphant Jnr, apprentice draper, Kilrenny and (2) at a shed situated in New Rd Street, Anstruther. Assaulted Geo Oliphant. Accused who was said to be weak of mind was unable to plead.  On accused’s father giving an undertaking that he would do his best to keep the lad from committing similar offences, the fiscal withdrew the charge against him.

1905

The drowning of Robert Smith fisherman, Cellardyke in the North Sea, consequent on the Cornucopia, the boat on which he was employed, being run into and sunk by HMS Speedwell, formed the subject of an enquiry under the Fatal Accidents Act at Cupar yesterday. Sherriff Armour presided.

The crown evidence was supplied by the crew of the Cornucopia, (Captain) Alexander Watson, Robert Anderson, James Smith, Alexander Brunton and James Page, and the story they gave was that at ten minutes to four o clock on the morning of the 25^th February last they were engaged un hauling in their nets about two miles off the North Carr Lightship when the Speedwell crashed into their port quarter. Smith and Anderson sprang at the Speedwell’s cable, and hung on there as long as they could, while the others leaped into the sea. Lines were thrown from the speedwell, but the efforts made to haul Smith and Anderson on board failed, and some time elapsed before a boat was launched and the survivors taken on board. The Cornucopia sank before the fishermen were got aboard, Smith’s body was never found. The Fishermen all stated that no officer was aboard the Speedwell at the time of the collision, and that the delay of the rescue was due to a small number of men – six- that were assisting them. The fishing boats had all their lights burning brightly.

Lieutenant Edward Alexander Thomas, said he was a lieutenant of the Sapho but was in command of the speedwell which was acting as a tender for the Sapho. He had left the Speedwell in charge of Lieutenant Henson and had gone down below during the night. He had done duty for a full spell before he went below. He did not undress when he went below so as to be ready for any emergency. At the time of the collision the ship was about ¾ a mile off the North Carr lightship. She was steering a safe course at the time. He was coming up the ladder when he felt the impact of the collision.

q. How many seamen were on watch at the time of the collision – ten men

When he went on deck the watch were throwing lines over to the men on the boat. The lifeboat had been called out. The boat could not be manned until the fishermen had been fixed to the lines. It took about 5 minutes for the lifeboat to be launched. Which was longer than usual as the watchmen were on the forecastle getting lines over to the fishermen. It would have taken too long to call other sleeping members of the crew. It takes 4 men to launch the boat and 6 to man her. As the other crew were turned in no advantage would have resulted in calling out the rest of the crew. The skipper and crew were put ashore at Leith.

1906

Mr and Mrs James Cunningham, John St, celebrated their golden wedding this week. Mr Cunningham who has been an elder of Chalmers Church for 25 years and a Sunday school teacher for 60 years was presented with a purse of sovereigns from the church elders and managers. The aged couple still enjoy best of health and it is only recently that Mr Cunningham stopped going to the line fishing.

1910

A distressing case of suicide occurred at Cellardyke yesterday. Elizabeth Thomson, 31 years of age, second daughter of Alexander Thomson, fisherman, James Street Cellardyke committing suicide by drowning herself.

It is believed that about 2 o clock in the morning the unfortunate woman rose from bed and left the house. Later in the morning her parents discovered her absence, and a search was begun, the result of which was that the body was found about two or three hundred yards from the beach in a stretch of water. The body was removed to the parent’s house and medical aid was soon forthcoming but life had been extinct for several hours.

 The affair is particularly pathetic in view of the fact that the deceased was to have been married on Friday first, and on Monday night was given a presentation by the members of the Christian Endeavour Society.  She had been in good spirits making arrangements for the wedding and no reason could be assigned for the act.

1913

Capt A Wood J.P nautical assessor has issued his decision in a collision course off Yarmouth on 29^th Oct 1912, between two Cellardyke Drifters, Carmi III and Guerdon, which were both insured by the same company. Both vessels claimed for a loss of fishing and the company offering £135 lie money, left the two skippers to settle who was at fault in the collision. The Skippers agreed to refer to Capt Wood who decreed the Guerdon was alone to blame for the collision.

1914

Mr Malcolm M Macfarlane, Second Master in Cellardyke School has secured an appointment by the Church of Scotland as a teacher in Ichang China.

Mr Barbour headmaster, Cellardyke drew attention to the Kilrenny School board that he, having reached the age limit was to retire at the end of the session.

1916

David Reid, 13 Dove Street tendered a plea of not guilty to a charge of failing to obey two notices served upon him under the Military service act.

His defence was about six months ago in Shore Street in Anstruther, he was told by a recruitment officer that he was of no use to the army as they wanted men with perfect eyesight. He wore glasses and his sight was bad. He got the notices but did not consider it worthwhile going to Kirkcaldy just to be sent back again.

Capt. Walker, said that although accused may not be of much use for fighting with a rifle in the trenches there were labouring corps in which he could serve. The trial was fixed for Thursday next with the accused being committed to the prison of Dundee.

Eight skippers from Pittenweem, Cellardyke and St Monans admitted today having fished with lines in the prohibited area of the Firth of Forth. Mr Davidson stated that the skippers had set their herring nets within the hal mile limit and had gone into the prohibited water for the purpose of fishing for a few white fish for themselves. They had had a rather hard time of it over the winter…… George Wilson Buttars who had two previous convictions was fined 30s or twenty days imprisonment. Thomas Jack of the yawl Expert was dismissed, he had just returned home and knew nothing of the regulations..

1917

David Birrell one of the best known of the fishing fraternity has passed away at the age of 93, for a long time he took an active part in public affairs, being a member of the parochial board and chairman of both Fisherman’s society and the hearse Society. He was also one of the first coxswains of the local lifeboat and on one occasion when a yawl was driven ashore at Cellardyke he was instrumental in saving 4 of the crew.

1919

Shipbuilding Company for East Fife. The East Fife Shipbuilding Company Ltd (Private Company) capital £2000 in £1 shares, has been registered as a joint stock company. The Subscribers are Lawrence Bruce Boatbuilder Cellardyke, and Alexander Farrell tinsmith Cellardyke.

1887

5^th April

According to the latest accounts five boats crews are still missing, sailing from Arbroath, Cellardyke, Pittenweem, Lossiemouth and Johnshaven, and the worst fears are entertained as to their fate. The Arbroath boat, The Ellen and Jane had a crew of six men, four married. The Cellardyke boat is the Snowdrop Skipper James Martin. She left Anstruther last Tuesday and has not been heard of since. There were seven men on board, five of whom were married and leave large families. The Pittenweem boat is the Sisters, her crew numbered seven. The Lossiemouth boat is the Invincible, the crew numbered eight hands four of whom were married. The Johnshaven boat is the Martha which was found abandoned and towed into Berwick, she had six hands altogether. It is a moderate computation to state that from 70 to 70 lives have been lost in this storm.

…….

It is thought the Snowdrop might have been stripped of masts and sails and be drifting out to sea. . This opinion being generally entertained, Mr Mair, The Fishery Officer, telegraphed for a government cruiser to be sent in search of her and yesterday the cruiser left the Forth for this purpose. There are seven men aboard. Skipper Martin Married, 2 children, William Martin his brother unmarried, George McRuvie married no family. David Corstorphine, unmarried, Hugh MacDonald married no family, James jack married no family and David Murray, wife and 5 children. The Pittenweem boat Sisters, Skipper William Finlay is also missing and almost all hope has been given up for her crew of seven men.

6^th April

 The Missing boat Snowdrop arrived at Anstruther yesterday, the crew had been in the vicinity of the English coast and had no experience of the storm.  

The East of Fife fishing boats encountered a severe thunderstorm on Thursday afternoon (The Boat Alexander of Ferryden was struck by lightning. The flash seems to have struck the ring on the top of the mast and running down hit Charles Coull and William Coull. The Injuries of the later were most serious. His clothes on the right hand side were entirely burned off him, his whole side and face were much discoloured. His sea boots had to be cut off and his stockings were found much singed. The whole crew was affected and in their confusion mistook the lights of Cellardyke houses for that of Anstruther harbour lights. As a result the boat ran ashore on the rocks to the west of Cellardyke Harbour, where she will become a total wreck.

(Charles Coull, had been conveyed to the House of John Morris the baker adjoining Cellardyke harbour, a Circular hole about the size of a penny on the shoulder of his oilskin showed where he had been struck, his shirt and underclothing burnt to a cinder.  He was in a delirious sleep all night and Dr Thomson was called., Charles died after severe suffering. On the 7^th April. His corpse was conveyed to Ferryden by boat, and the whole of the Cellardyke fishermen, dressed in their blue clothes to the number of between 400 and 500 attended the mourning procession to Anstruther Harbour walking four abreast.  Charles Coull’s father expressed his thanks for the kindness which he had experienced on every hand in Cellardyke)

The Sophia also of Ferryden was struck by lightning in the same storm on the, one of the crew David West (Tarvit) who was standing near the steel tie, was thrown senseless to the deck. This boat also bore up on Anstruther which was safely reached about an hour after sunset. David was taken to the house of his father in law Skipper James Tarvit in Cellardyke and next morning was so far revived as only to complain of numbness, with a dull, stinging pain in his right arm.

The Reindeer of Cellardyke was also struck at sea, but providentially Skipper Muir and his crew escaped unhurt. St Monans boat John and Agnes arrived at Shields with the loss of four of her crew, washed overboard. One man Robert Cameron has survived the loss of his own boat the Grace Darling when it was run down by a German steamer only weeks before.

1888

The well-known Skipper Thomas Birrell, left on Thursday en route on a new enterprise – viz, to develop the crab and lobster fishing of the Moray Firth. It is not the least interesting feature of the ‘spec’ that the veteran is, with the agency of the railway and the telegraph, to send his own catch from day to day to market

1890

A Cellardyke fishing boat, Alaska, put into Elie today and reported the loss of one of the crew – Alexander Falconer. The boat was riding at the nets 40 miles east from the May Island, when a heavy gales suddenly arose and a big wave washed Falconer overboard, Falconer belonged Cellardyke and was 20 years of age. The other members of the crew were in such jeopardy that they were unable to render any assistance. There were grave doubts for a time as to whether all the boats would weather the storm.

Little hope is now entertained of the safety of the Cellardyke fishing boat Garland, and it is supposed that she must have foundered at sea in the gale of Tuesday 8^th April. She Sailed from Anstruther on Monday Morning for the deep sea fishing and was last seen riding at the nets 55 miles east from the May Island on Tuesday night. No trace of her has been seen since and unless she returns today all hope will be abandoned.

Adam Watson, Skipper, 65 grown up family

James Salter, son in law, 34, married

John Brown son in law, 30, married

David Watson, 39, Married 4 of a family

Alexander Smith, 28, married two of a family

Robert Brown, 22, unmarried

Robert Watson, 16, unmarried

1891

Steps are being taken to organise a steam fishing fleet in the East Of Fife, The initiative is by the right man in the right place as we may say of the energetic young salesman at Anstruther, William Bonthron.. The idea, is to begin with a pioneer vessel to coast £1800, subscribed for in so many shares at £10 each, a second and thirds or rather any number of vessels, will be added as the enterprise may succeed. Of this however, there cannot be a question, in view of the fact that the S S Petrel with her Cellardyke Crew has earned £700 in the stormiest four months of the year. The vessel is to be a model of her class, 75 feet in length and to steam at 9 knots per hour, so as to be able in fishing weather to scour the seas with net and line. She will land the big fish catch at Anstruther, but it is possible that she may take up her station at Aberdeen or Peterhead in the coming drave…. Statistics tell you that a third of the herrings landed on the Scottish Coast are over days fish, a circumstance not to be avoided in the vicissitudes of the weather – a calm day today and a gale tomorrow – but it is otherwise when you can steam to a pier as to be in time with the clock for the early trains….

1893

The Cellardyke boat Glengarry ran ashore near Sunderland of Friday but was floated off with slight damage.

1897

The reopening of Cellardyke School is to be an event of some importance. Dr Dunn, Her Majesties School inspector is to declare the School open tomorrow. It was on his recommendation that the extension was begun, and this has been dine according to plans by Messrs Dewar Architects Leven. The entire school has been remodelled and accommodation doubled. The roof was formerly an array of pinnacles has been taken off and a more substantial air imparted to the erection by the addition of another storey, and a wing in the west gable, the roof being surmounted with 5 exhaust ventilators, while three gables form the main feature. The difference in colour between the old and new stonework has been met by the redressing of the former. The interior is splendidly finished. The accommodation on the ground floor is one large classroom 39ft x 33ft for infants, holding 160 pupils; another 33ft x 20ft holding 66; and other two 26ft x 21ft, for infants holding 60 each. At the back will be two large cloakrooms 17ft x 16ft and the entrance to the staircase to the upper floor. On the first floor there will be five large classrooms for an average of 60 pupils, it also contains two large cloakrooms and a staircase at the back., The playground has been enclosed with a wall and railing.

1898

Methil – On Saturday night Alexander Wood Melville (24) a miner, fell off the gangway from the deck of the S.S. Amaranth, struck the quay wall and fell in to the dock. He never rose again, and about half an hour elapsed ere the body was recovered by grappling irons. He had made the acquaintance of the crew of a steamer lying the other side of the Amaranth and was accompanying them when the party found the vessel had swung into the middle of the dock. He invited them home and they were returning when the accident happened. Melville was a native of Cellardyke and leaves a widow and two of a family.

1899

We understand that Mr Stephen Williamson has just purchased the Grimsby trawler Monarch; and that Mr Michael Doig, late of Cellardyke is to be Skipper. He is to be succeeded in the office of skipper of the Faith by his brother James who has been along with him in the faith for some time.