The Cellardyke Echo

1875

Skipper Alex Davidson, of Cellardyke and his young companion, the son of Skipper William Watson Jack, had a narrow escape on Thursday, for while scudding past the romantic cliffs of St Abbs a violent squall struck the sail and nest instant threw the yawl on her beam ends filling her at the same terrible juncture gunwale deep with water. Providentially a friendly boat was soon alongside, and the gear and nest were saved, but the yawl named ‘Nil Desperandum’ was totally lost. William Davidson was landed at Burnmouth, where he purchased another yawl, and has once more sailed to resume the fishing at the Tyne.

1876

About dusk on Sabbath the German galiot Anna was stranded on the rocks near Anstruther Harbour, when the vessel became a total wreck, but the crew were rescued by the gallant services of the lifeboat. The unlucky craft was on a voyage to Burntisland for the loading of coals, and, wafted before the freshening sea breeze all went well till the master, Captain William Rinck, mistaking, as he says, the Isle of May for that of Inchkeith, and the red light of Anstruther for that of his port of destination, steered his schooner stern on to the shore. The wild misapprehension was seen all but too late, for though the anchor was dropped, the surf rolling in from the North Sea drove the schooner on the dangerous ridge known as the West Gatt, where bewildered and frantic by finding their frail hulk at the mercy of the foaming breakers, they gave vent to their feelings in wild and heart rending cries for assistance. These, however, were not in vain, for in quick response to the signal gun at the lifeboat house, crowds of hardy fishermen left their firesides in Cellardyke, or betook themselves in their Sunday clothes, just as they were returning from church, to the scene of action, where a hundred willing hands lost not an instant in the dragging of the boat over the rugged basin of the new harbour. It was dead low water on the shore, but the long pull was effected without pause or rest, when a volunteer crew with Skipper John Pratt as Coxswain, having sprung to their places, the little craft shot out into the darkness and the storm on the errand of deliverance. It was a critical task, for on nearing the wreck the utmost skill was demanded for to preserve the boat from being dashed against the thickly set skerries and detached rocks on every side of the galiot, and on which the boat, notwithstanding every precaution more than once struck her keel. Eventually, however, a rope was thrown from the vessel, and the lifeboat being steered through an open chasm in the rocks, the four men composing of the crew dropped from the jib boom, when a few minutes sufficed to land them at the new sea pier on their way to a place of shelter for the night…. The disaster is only to be explained by the ignorance of the master of the navigation of the coast, and he is also reported to have mistaken the time of high water… she is well covered by insurance…. The sea wind and heavy surf during Tuesday reduced her to driftwood…

1877

Alexander Keith, carter, Cellardyke pleaded guilty to assaulting James Jack on the 10^th Instant on the public road between Anstruther and St Andrews by striking him a number of severe blows on his head with his fists.. 30s or 21 days imprisonment.

1878

Fears are being entertained in Peterhead for the safety of the ‘Progress’, belonging to that port. It is now over three weeks since she left Cellardyke for the Baltic, and several vessels leaving after her have reached their destination.

Marriage

At St Monance on the 27^th, by the Rev Gabriel Smith of Anstruther, John Trainer Fishcurer to Isabella youngest daughter of the Late John Nicol, Merchant Cellardyke.

1879

Just published.  Fisher Life, or the The Memorials of Cellardyke and the Fife Coast by George Gourlay

1880

On Wednesday Morning as the Cellardyke boat Southern Cross, Alexander Fowler, master was running home from the great lines she was struck with a tremendous sea, while crossing the Murray Bank, some ten leagues or so from the Isle of May. Two of the crew Andrew Fleming, who was at the helm and Andrew Brown who was standing on the hatchway, were washed overboard and drowned. Thomas Keay was also severely crushed between the spars, which had been cast loose by the same fatal sea. Skipper fowler with great presence of mind cast loose the sheet on the boat, or one and all would doubtless have been engulfed in destruction. Fleming leaves a widow and five children, and Brown a widow and two children, all of whom are more or less helpless and dependant.

Another melancholy disaster occurred on board the Cellardyke boat Onyx, Robert Meldrum master. The onyx like the Southern Cross was homeward bound, and while close reefed in mid ocean she was struck by one of those treacherous billows only too well known in the navigation of the North Sea. At this instant one of the crew, Andrew Muir, was swept into the sea, and though for a time he sustained an unequal struggle with the storm, he perished before the boat could beat up his rescue. Another of the crew David Wood, was severely cut on the forehead, through a blow dealt by the heel of his lost comrade, while in the clutches of the sea, which threw him over the gunwale. Muir leaves a widow and five helpless children.

1881

Deaths

At sea on the 16^th January in his 56^th year on his passage home from Calcutta to Liverpool, Captain James Webster of the ship Mary Stenhouse, a native of Cellardyke. His body was consigned to a sailor’s grave. He served his time as a carpenter in Dundee before taking to shipboard.

1883

The haddocks have been seldom so plentiful, in particular a Cellardyke yawl landed 50 dozen of the sea dainties the other morning, the lines having been cast with skellie to St Ironic, a haddock haunt famous in the fishing annals of Fife  for the last 3 centuries. Seven boats forming the Cellardyke squadron this season sailed on Friday.

1884

About seven o clock this morning a collision between the Gleaner, No 1800 belonging to Cellardyke, and the yawl Flowery land of Arbroath, by which the former was so seriously damaged she sank. Skipper of the Gleaner, David Corstorphine left Cellardyke on Monday morning for the great line fishing and arrived about 33 miles east of the bell rock about 3 in the afternoon. About 12 o clock last night they got their lines hauled and when about 7 miles off the bell rock bearing west by south they were run into by the Flowery land, which struck her between the foremost timber and stem with such a force that the Gleaner filled and sank within minutes. The crew were taken aboard the Naomi of Arbroath. The skipper of the Gleaner states that although he saw the Flowery land he was unable to alter his course in time to avoid the collision. It appears that the crew of the Flowery Land did not notice the Gleaner until they struck her, and they asked why the Gleaner crew did not cry out and give them a warning. The Gleaner was lost with all tackle, lines etc and none of the crew was able to save anything. Neither the boat nor gear was insured and the loss will fall upon the captain whose property she was.. The crew are Skipper David Corstorphine, George Corstorphine, William Watson, George Doig, David Moncrieff, John Moncrieff and William Falconer.

1886

Deaths

Captain George Barclay at Liverpool native of Cellardyke, in his 75^th year. His first cruise was as one of the 80 young fishers on the season on board the Greenland whalers. Resolving to be a sailor, he studied navigation with so much success that after once and again crossing the line as mate, he obtained a command of his own, but at the very moment that the highest honours of his profession were lying like an open door to his hand he was seized with an alarming ailment, which compelled him to forsake all and live ashore. He was invited by the late Provost Tod to superintend the fish business built up by the lifelong labours of Mr William Davidson. In this way he was induced to move from the East of Fife to Liverpool where in private as well as commercial circles he won the esteem and confidence of all whom he had to do with. He is survived by a widow and three sons, one of whom is a partner in the well-known firm of Lindop and Barclay.

1837

The haddock fishing at Cellardyke never was so abundant as at present; they are smoked there in large quantities by the fish curers, for the Edinburgh and Glasgow markets.

 FOLLOWING ON FROM BOB SUTHERLAND’S POST

1838

High Court of Justiciary – John Sutherland, skipper of the boat ‘Johns’ of Cellardyke, Fifeshire, was tried on a charge of culpable homicide, inasmuch as he went out to the Isle of May, in July last, in his boat with 65 persons on board, and from a swell the boat was driven among the rocks, and 13 persons were drowned. It appears from the evidence that the number of passengers was not greater than usual; that everything was done judiciously; that Sutherland had a good character. The crown gave up the case, and Sutherland was dismissed from the bar with his character untainted.

1842

The members of the Anstruther and Cellardyke Total abstinence society have been accustomed for some time past to hold social meetings in the Town hall (Anstruther), when several members delivered lectures and read essays upon different subjects, and others enlivened the company with songs, and thus the evenings were spent in social and comfortable manner, everyone conducting himself with proper decorum. These meetings gave the members an opportunity of exercising their abilities, and at the same time tended to instruct and inform the illiterate. We learn with regret, therefore, that the magistrates have resolved not to give the Society the use of the hall in the future. It is hoped there can be little difference of opinion that the Magistrates have done very far wrong in discouraging the holding of these meetings, because it is a well-known fact that this society has reclaimed many men formerly the pests of society, and have thus lightened the labours of the magistrates in their judicial capacity. It is to be trusted that the Bailies will recall their decree.

1849

Highland Destitution – On the afternoon of Thursday week several fishing boats arrived at Granton Pier, from the Fife fishing villages, on their way to the West Highlands, for the purpose of instructing the natives in deep sea fishing. There were three large boats with their crews, amounting to twenty four men, from Cellardyke, and two large and two small from St Monance. They were engaged by Captain Ross, of the Edinburgh committee, and are to proceed to Skye and Wester Ross. The men are fine hardy looking fellows, and their boats are in first rate order, and well supplied with fishing materials of all kinds. In each boat there was a smart attractive woman, for cooking, and baiting the lines, who are to initiate the highland women into the art. Early on Friday Morning, they all assembled at Granton Pier, and, after having been inspected by Mr Skene, the secretary, who addresses a few words of encouragement to the men, they departed in high spirits for their new field of enterprise.

1850

Cellardyke – On Saturday afternoon as two of our crews were returning from the herring fishing, when within two miles from the shore between Anstruther and Cellardyke, they came in collision, and the consequence was, that one of them sunk almost immediately, leaving the crew just time to save themselves by leaping on board the other, which was also considerably injured. It was with difficulty that the two crews kept her afloat until they reached Cellardyke. The nets of the sunk boat were nearly all saved, having buoys upon them. The boat and other materials were lost. The crew of the sunk boat say they were in the act of tacking, and had not the command of their boat; in all probability the dispute will have to be settled by law. The name of the lost boat was Hamilton; the skipper’s name is smith. The name of the other skipper is Morris. The weather was very stormy when the accident occurred; wind blowing from the westward.

1863

Stonehaven – Though fishermen lead a comparatively hazardous sort of life they are often rewarded for their hardihood in prosecuting their calling….. On Friday last week two south firth boats landed on our quays, something like 100 scores of cod, skate, turbot, ling &c value between £80 and £90 and the other day there came to our harbour a boat laden from the Coder Bank, but the price offered here not suiting the idea of the crew, they set sail with the same tide for Montrose.. Why don’t our fishermen use the bank? Why do they turn their large boats upside down for nine months of the year. The ground is as open and free to them as the Cellardyke fishers.

1865

We learn after the divers have completed the raising of the cargo of the Temora, and effort will be made to recover the engines and boilers &c of the steam tug Robert Scott, which sank in the offing of Cellardyke about nine months ago.

Lieutenant Bainbridge of the coastguard had had an interview with Cellardyke Fishermen in reference to procuring a life preserving or Manby’s apparatus in this harbour, but that the Board of Trade, in answer to their application had intimated that, these apparatuses being supplied at Elie, Fife ness and St Andrews, they deemed the supply sufficient for the coast. The Lieutenant advised the fishermen to keep on board their boast a sufficient number of Life Buoys and cork jackets, as being most serviceable in cases of danger, and being of more use to them than Manby’s rockets, which in the case of fishing boats might turn out rather disadvantageous than otherwise to them. The fishermen appeared to concur in the recommendations made to them..

1869

 A large Shark was landed at Anstruther Pier by the Cellardyke Deep-sea going boat belonging to Skipper John Pratt. It measured 14 feet long, and was singularly large for girth; after the liver, which filled a barrel and a half, had been extracted, the carcass weighed almost 11cwt. The fishermen had been drawing in their great lines on the previous night when the shark was found to have become entangled in the lines, which snapped with the sudden strain upon them.  This induced the crew to wait until daylight, when owing, probably to the fish becoming exhausted by its own struggles, they succeeded in drawing it to the surface of the water. Here the difficulty of taking it into the boat seemed to be insurmountable, but by passing a strong rope round its shoulders and using their capstan, the crew at length succeeded in hoisting it on board, where before it was killed it showed the deadly voracity of its kind by seizing the boat’s chains between it’s terrible teeth. On being landed here, it was bought by Mr Cormack, Cellardyke for £3.

1905

A serious accident occurred in West Anstruther on Monday night, when George Fergusson, butcher, Cellardyke sustained severe bruises. He had been at the goods station removing a cattle beast in a float to Cellardyke, and in attempting to jump on to the vehicle he missed his hold and slipped between the horse’s heels and the float. The axle of the float crushed him when he fell to the ground, but fortunately the horse was stopped in time.

1909

The Royal Humane society yesterday awarded a bronze medal to William Wilson, fisherman, Cellardyke, for his heroic action on February 11^th whereby four lives were saved. Shortly after midnight the fishing boat ‘Triumph’, in attempting to enter Anstruther harbour, was driven on the rocks by a heavy sea running. The only hope of rescue was for someone to swim ashore with a line, and this Wilson volunteered to try and do. Clad in thick clothing and wearing heavy sea boots, he took a line, and plunging into the boiling surf succeeded, after a hard struggle, in reaching land. His four comrades being got to shore in safety.

1912

Charles Christopher Gen, Toft Terrace Cellardyke, at Cupar today was tried on a charge of contravening the Anstruther Harbour Order by failing to remove his boat, The Roamer of North Shields, in Anstruther harbour on the order of David Davidson Harbour master.

David Davidson stated that Gen refused to take up his berth in the middle of the harbour.

Mr Maxwell, Solicitor –Are you aware the fishermen understand a boat cannot be ordered out of the harbour for a month?

Davidson – I don’t think they have a month’s grace.

Sherriff Hannay- Did you give an order to remove from the harbour?

Davidson – I told him to remove this boat from the top of the pier to the centre of the harbour but not to go out of the harbour.

Maxwell – are you aware every order has to be put in writing under the Harbour act

Davidson – I don’t know that

Maxwell – after Gen’s boat left the berth he had at first taken up , the steamship Eva came in and took the berth occupied by the Roamer. The Eva had come in to get repairs for the deep sea fishing.

Did the Roamer not come in for repairs?

Davidson – No

Maxwell said the Roamer was a Shields boat and it was not fair to give other boats a preference

James Jack (Carstairs) one of the crew of the Roamer, stated that the harbour master had asked Gen to tie up at the Pottie Pier

Maxwell, did the harbourmaster tell Gen to lie up in the middle of the harbour.

Jack – The harbourmaster said I do not know where to put you unless at the Pottie Pier.

The Sherriff came to the conclusion that he had no alternative but to convict. There was no evidence to support the suggestion that had been made that the order was given out of motives of local bias. The question was, had accused got a reasonable order from the harbourmaster, and did he disobey that order? He had come to the conclusion that he did. His lordship dismissed the accused with an admonition.

1913

James Hutt, Fisherman , Chapman Innes, St Monans  and Elizabeth Davidson Hutt, Markinch, registered owners of the steam drifter Lizzie Hutt ML 122, sued John Watson, fisherman Cellardyke the owner of the Steam drifter Pride of Fife for £430 for services rendered on Sept 4^th at Eyemouth in a Westerly gale.

The Pride it was contended was in danger of being wrecked on the Hettle Scar rocks. The Harbourmaster of Eyemouth said that Mr Davidson was a very well pleased man when he got safely in the harbour. The value of the vessel was about £2200.

The debate on the evidence was set for 25^th Inst.

1922

Kilrenny Parish War memorial, which has been erected on a commanding site on the town’s green, Cellardyke, overlooking the firth of Forth was unveiled on Sunday by Lieutenant Col T D Murray DSO

Previous to the unveiling a memorial service was held in Cellardyke Parish Church when an address was given by Prof Arch Main, Rev J Mc Naughton and Rev James Lee also took part in the service.

At the ceremony a Hymn was sung by Cellardyke Schoolchildren…

1923

Board of Trade exams

Awarded

Skippers ticket – William Muir 28 James Street, David Parker 19 West Forth Street, David Tawse, 63 George Street, Alex Thomson 24 George Street and James Watson, 9 Burnside Tce,

Second Hand – James Barclay 8 Fowler Street, David Gourlay 9 Dove Street, John Stewart 16 James Street, David Christie 26 Rodger Street, Thomas Corstorphine 41 John Street, Alex Doig 12 west Forth Street, Alex Gardner 20 James Street, David Henderson 51 James Street, Alex McCruvie 20 James Street.

1925

The Cellardyke steam drifter Cromorna KY 73 had the highest shot of 35 crans, prices were from 18s to 24 s 6d per cran.

1925

In the absence of their husbands at the fishing, Cellardyke women, accompanied in most cases by younger members of their family, paid tribute by their presence yesterday at the funeral to the late Rev G S Anderson, minister of the parish of Kilrenny for the last 47 years.

The remains were interred at Kilrenny with full Masonic honours. About 30 brethren and companions of Lodge St Ayle (No 95) of which the deceased was past master and Dreel castle Royal Arch Chapter preceded the coffin, Six brethren and companions representing the lodge and Chapter carried the coffin to the graveside where the masonic service was performed by Bro C H Maxwell RWM assisted by companion R Sime MEZ an Bro Rev JR Lee Chaplain of the lodge. The depositing of a sprig of heather by the brethren completed a most impressive service.

The Winter herring was a dangerous time…

1880

Everyone can understand that the value of herrings or fish in general very much depends on the expedition with which they can be sent to the market, hence the rush on all sides to overtake the first train. Carters, however, at least, so think the authorities, occasionally exceed direction, and the safety of life and limbs of the lieges, especially when an accident does occur, as it did the other day to a boy named Drummond, who had his foot run over near the Post Office. Thus on Friday last before, the East Anstruther Bailies, Alexander McRobie and David Parker, Carters Anstruther and David Scott, Carter, Cellardyke, were charged under the Lindsay Act with Furious Driving on the occasion of the accident referred to. They severely denied the charge, when three neighbour wives were called to prove the complaint. Accordingly to this testimony, the misfortune of the boy had happened, not through the fault or recklessness of the drivers, but through the shying of one of the horses, and altogether the proof was so confused and unsatisfactory, that the panels were dismissed with a reprimand from the bar.

James Brunton, fisherman, Cellardyke was charged with a breach of the peace, but on evidence being led, the averments of the complainers, George Elder and his father, went to show that the altercation was so much of a family quarrel, in which it was impossible to say who was worse, that the bailies dismissed the charge.

1881

A telegram was received in Anstruther on Monday morning to the effect that a vessel was in distress at Fifeness and calling for the lifeboat. Harbour Pilot Parker, the Coxswain in charge, had the boat at once in gear with a volunteer crew of Cellardyke fishermen, and so dragged by four horses began the journey eastwards. It was an arduous task with the lumbering wheels on the sodden highway, but on appeal being made to Mr Clark at Rennyhill, two horses only waited to be put in harness. The same response was given by Mr Eadie, Carncores, but Mr Fortune of Barnsmuir sent four horses and three men, and thus, with twelve horses in all the rescue party dashed in gallant style through Crail. The launch was made at Balcomie sands, when the lifeboat was pulled to the vessel – a large Norwegian brig – which , however by this time had been abandoned by her crew, and also boarded by some Crail Fishermen, who had ventured through the surf in a salmon coble. The object of those in the lifeboat was now to assist the strangers adrift in the longboat, and a search was consequently made in all directions, but without success. Meanwhile the steam tug ‘Yorkshire lass’, finding it impossible to make the Harbour at Arbroath, was induced to reconnoitre with the lifeboat in the hope of saving the ship, which was riding at anchor on the inner side of the Carr, but she was found in the interval to have struck the reef, and, with rudder gone, was fast sinking to the bottom. Tug and lifeboat then returned to the harbour about 5pm, but in about three hours afterwards the town rang with the glad news that the castaways had also found a safe landing at the pier. The brig is the Oliver of Dramen …..

1883

Advert in Shetland Times

The International Fisheries Exhibition, Edinburgh 1882

Gold medal for Deep Sea Herring Nets

Silver Medal and Money prize for Deep Sea Fishing Lines

Diploma for Excellence of Fishermen’s suits of Oilskins

The Above having Been awarded to – SHARP AND MURRAY, CELLARDYKE

They are now making stock to suit the trade with the very best material. Nets suitable for the Shetland Isles, mounted, barked and ready for sea; as well as great lines, mounted and barked in cane skulls or maunds, ready to bait. Barked Cotton in skeins for mending, in all sizes in fact every requisite required for the fishing Industry, supplied at the lowest possible prices.

1883

Last night the Cellardyke fishing boat, owned by George Watson Smith, which had only left for the fishing ground that afternoon, returned to Anstruther harbour and reported the loss of Thomas Pratt, one of the crew. They had been engaged shooting their nets, and unobserved, Pratt had fallen overboard, the first thing they noticed was his heels as he disappeared beneath the water. He never rose to the surface, and the crew returned to communicate the melancholy intelligence to his parents. Pratt was only 18 years of age.

1890

Yesterday afternoon the fishing boat Eclipse KY 2072, of Cellardyke, put into Arbroath and reported the loss of one of her crew, a young man named Andrew Keay (nephew of the Skipper, second son of Mr Andrew Keay living in John Street)). The Eclipse was engaged at the herring fishing about a mile East of the Carr Rock when she was overtaken by the gale. While hauling in the nets a huge wave struck the craft and carried Keay overboard. The poor fellow was seen floating for some time, but it was found impossible to render him assistance. On Arriving at Arbroath, the news of the unfortunate accident was telegraphed by the crew to the friends of the deceased, who belonged to Cellardyke, was 27 years of age and unmarried.

The Barbara Wood was towed by the Maggie Scott, of Cellardyke in the course of the evening tide into Anstruther. The close reef was torn to ribbons, so that she was drifting like a log at the mercy of the gale when Skipper Gardiner bore up to the rescue. Boat after boat arrived with the tackle, if at all, like tangled threads, so that the loss of gear is un paralled in the Forth.

1894

Football

Anstruther Rangers V Cellardyke Bluejackets

An eleven of the fishermen under this once familiar name gave battel to the Rangers on Saturday. The wind spoiled play, and the Rangers, playing with the wind, rattled through four goals. When their time came the Bluejackets compiled three goals ere the whistle blew.

1896

On Monday night a first class fishing boat built to the order of William Stewart & Sons Cellardyke was launched from the building yard of Mr James Miller, As the craft left the ways she was named Unity by a daughter of one of the owners. She is 62 feet long, a splendid model, and is to be fitted up with the newest principle, with steam engine for hauling the nets, and will be available for all branches of the fishing (Interesting that a week later the same launch is mentioned in another paper with the owners as Corstorphine, Cellardyke)

1898

The annual social of the employees of the Kirkcaldy Boot factory was held in Cellardyke Town hall on Tuesday Evening.

In Cellardyke Town hall on Saturday night Rev. Mr Turnbull St Monans, delivered a lecture, illustrated with limelight views on the fishing ports of Yarmouth and Lowestoft, to which the fishermen go every year. The attendance was good and the lecture heartily appreciated.

1902

Crail Union have Cellardyke Bluejackets as their guests in a Martin Cup Tie. The Union are the present holders and ousted the Bluejackets last season 3 -2 in the Semi-final, so that the latter will strive their utmost to turn the tables on this occasion. Mr Cummings of Leven is referee.

(report of the match below, it must have been a draw as a rematch followed in Waid park)

Cellardyke Bluejackets sprung a genuine surprise on Crail, a surprise only equal to that when the Union beat the Rangers in the final last year. The Match was played at Crail before an excited crowd, but it was not a game to criticise.

Starting at first with a firm grip on the players the referee gradually became a secondary figure, and the exhibition was one of a rough and tumble nature.

The Armitage cup defeat by kettle made Crail anxious which accounted for the Union sticking to their choice of ground. The meant to give away no advantages.

Cellardyke’s eleven was a ‘dark horse’ A protest was lodged against one of the Blues.

1838

On the night of Saturday last we were visited with a very severe gale of wind from the Eastward and the damage done on the coast has been very great. The wind was accompanied by a heavy fall of snow and the roads were for a second time this season blocked up. On Sunday the storm raged with equal violence, and there being a stream tide the sea broke on the shore with great force. The new building on the south pier at Cellardyke Harbour is almost totally destroyed, and several hundred cart loads of stones, which composed the centre part of the pier, are now lying in the middle of the harbour, which is of course unusable. A few years ago about £1700 was expended in improving accommodation for the boats of this thriving fishing station, but we are sorry to say to little purpose, the basin never having been a safe shelter from the sea in any wind, although in good weather the boats were generally moored in it.

1839

We have much pleasure in recording the following instance of hospitality on the part of the lighthouse keepers on the Isle of May.  On Wednesday Three Cellardyke boats engaged in the herring fishing were detained on the island by bad weather all night, and on Thursday no less than ten boats belonging to Cellardyke and one from Fisherrow were forced to leave the fishing grounds in consequence of a strong gale of wind from SW to W, and which veering to W and by S increased to a hurricane, and obliged all the hands to speed tpo the island for safety. There are only two families on the isle, Mr Pithie’s the principle light keeper and his assistant, On the Arrival of their unexpected visitors – of which their number was not small, being 75 persons, Mr and Mrs Pithie and his assistant welcomed them to their dwellings in the kindliest manner, and having lighted fires to warm them , they treated them with the best which their larders afforded them, and in great abundance,  and did everything in their power to make them comfortable. When the storm took off the boats returned to Cellardyke and the fishermen expressed their gratefulness for the hospitality.

1862

On the forenoon of Friday an aged fisherman named Doig, belonging to Cellardyke was proceeding homeward, he was overtaken by two spring-carts following close on each other. The first, jostling against him, threw the unfortunate man to the ground, when the other cart which was heavily loaded almost instantly passed over his body crushing him severely. Surgical assistance was promptly in attendance, and hopes are entertained of his recovery. The case is being investigated by the authorities.

1868

We understand that an amicable arrangement has been come to with respect to the loss of the Cellardyke boat KY 433 by the owner of the barque Danubio 9which ran the boat down) consenting to pay the claim of £160, as compensation for the loss sustained by her owner, Mr John Watson, Cellardyke, with a further sum, said to be 312, to the crew, to make up for the loss of clothing and other effects belonging to them, and which were not saved.

1873

Mr John Gilchrist of the Cellardyke Steam Boot and Shoe Works, is at present erecting a handsome edifice on the celebrated concrete principle on the fine corner opposite the Tollbooth . The novel erection is thirty three feet long, twenty one wide and twenty two high in the front wall, and is to embrace an elegant and commodious shop on the ground floor with neat family apartments above; and as it has swept away the mean and incomgrouse subjects which so long disfigured the locality, Mr Gilchrist’s enterprise has effected one of the most decided improvements ever carried out in Cellardyke..

1875

The coast has been swept by the severe north east gale at the time the fishing is usually most productive…… two Cellardyke boats, those of Skippers James Brunton and James Barclay – were utterly overcome in the endeavour to haul their drift nets, and had to lie at the mercy of the storm with the spray flying overhead in pitiless showers, increasing the chill and damp of the blinding snowflakes till the noon of the following day, when they gained shelter of the shore.

1877

Piracy on the High seas. The other day, as the Cellardyke deep sea going boat ‘Southern Cross’, Skipper Alexander Fowler, was at the cod fishery, some leagues seaward of they may, a strange boat was espied running the same track, and her nefarious errand was only made too intelligible by the irritating discovery that the fishing gear had apparently been raised to the surface by means of small grappling irons, and the deliberately stripped hook by hook, the piracy being ended by taking away about two thousand yards of the gear, which was likewise cast adrift to the mercy of the storm. The matter is at present under investigation by Mr Gilles of the fishery board.

1882

Alexander Myles was brought up on a charge of furious driving in breach of the Lindsay Act. He pleaded guilty and was fined 30s.

1883

A sad story comes to us from the beautiful Island of Manitaulin in the American lakes. It appears that two fine young men, the sons of Robert Boyter, who emigrated from Cellardyke along with his wife , Isabella Robertson a native of Pittenweem, had set out from Ontario, to give a Scottish welcome to the opening year. Other young men were on the same errand; but they were warned that the ice was not to be trusted to. In his self-confidence however, one of these laughed at all fears, and undertook to guide the party home, though after being over seven miles on the way, a companion became so alarmed that he crawled back on his hands and knees to the village. The party in the meantime were heading on; but it soon became a struggle for very life even to reach the nearest Island. One friend fell through the ice, and perished; but his death cry was still ringing in the air when the two brothers were in the same terrible situation. David, the younger, as if by some mysterious help gained the island, but his gallant brother, who excelled as a swimmer, after the most superhuman exertions, sank within five feet of the shore – the party being so faint with cold that they could not raise a finger for his rescue. For a while it seemed as if they had only beeen spared a more cruel death, but they were eventually able to kindle a fire, and to assuage their hunger by the slaughter of a dog till they were relieved by some indian hunters on the third day they were from the Island, A search party being organised, the body of poor Robert was found and buried on the very day that he and his friends had so long fondly looked forward to for the festal song at the old fireside.

1900

50 men feared lost

There is still no tidings at Aberdeen today of the five missing trawlers including the Hermes of Dundee. A number of trawlers arrived at the port (Aberdeen) this morning; but none of them had sighted any of the vessels, and HMS Jackal, which went in search of the trawlers, is reported to have seen no trace of them. There seems little doubt therefore to their fate. All the vessels were manned by Aberdeen fishermen except the Bernicia, which belongs to Shields and which had a crew of Cellardyke men. The probable loss of life is estimated at about 50 men, each vessel having a crew of nine or ten men.

1902

Launch. A large fishing boat to the order of Messrs D & Leslie Brown Cellardyke was launched yesterday from Mr James Miller’s boat building shed at the harbour. The boat was named Ottoway and is to be fitted out for all classes of fishing.

1903

William Myles, Carter, 22 John Street, Cellardyke pleaded guilty to having, at the steelyard at the fish loading b, A fine of 30s or 14 days in jail was imposed and, Anstruther Wester, assaulted William Thomson Ballantyne, railway constable by striking him with his fists and tripping him up

1911

The Cellardyke herring fishing boat Guiding Star KY 677 at an early hour yesterday morning lost one of her crew, John Moncrieff in the Firth of Forth. The boat arrived at the mouth of the South Esk, off Montrose yesterday afternoon flying a signal for assistance, Pilot Stephen went off, and after difficulty got the craft safely berthed at the jetty where the crew reported the unfortunate affair.

The Guiding Star left Cellardyke to prosecute the herring fishing soon after midnight, and although a strong south west gale was blowing everything went well till about two in the morning. Then the boat was some distance off the May Island, and while the missing man Moncrieff was in the stern the other four members of the crew were engaged in shifting their nets. Moncrieff was never seen after that.

What actually happened will probably never be known but it is supposed that the gale had caused Moncrieff to lose his balance and fall overboard. There was absolutely no trace of the missing fisherman, so that no attempt could be made at a rescue.

The crew had a stiff battle against wind and tide, and ultimately reached Montrose in the afternoon.

 Moncrieff who belonged to Cellardyke was a man of middle age and leaves a widow and four children.

1915

Cellardyke’s first victim of the War

Information was received in Cellardyke on Saturday that Wm Reekie RNR had been lost through the sinking of the Clan McNaughton.

 Reekie who joined the RNR soon after the war broke out, was about 22 years of age and unmarried. He is the first Cellardyke victim of the war.

1917

Evidence was led before Lord Ormidale in court of session on Saturday in the action for divorce, raised by David Hutchison Barclay formerly a fisherman, residing at 17 John Street Cellardyke, and now a private in the Black Watch, against his wife Cecilia Miller or Barclay, 43 Nicolson Street Pultney town Wick.

 The pursuer’s evidence had been taken on commission in France, and was lodged in process.

1924

Throughout the neighbouring communities in the East Neuk yesterday the principle topic of conversation was the remarkable windfall of £200 which Mrs Corstorphine (41) George Street Cellardyke found inside a pillow bought at an auction sale. The Pillow formed part of the household effects of the late Miss Forrester, Rankeillor Street Elie, who died recently. Mrs Corstorphine’s find included four cheques, deposit receipt, War stock bonds and post office savings bank book. Speculation is rife as to how the little fortune will ultimately be dealt with, but meantime the securities are being tended by the police authorities.

1926

Provost Mitchell who presided at the monthly meeting of Kilrenny Town Council, reported that he had received the sum of £15, the proceeds of a whist drive organised by towns people on behalf of a fund being raised for the construction of a bathing pond at Cellardyke

An interlocutor in an action at the instance of James Tarvit, fisherman, 22  Fowler Street, Cellardyke, against Adam Carnegie, motor mechanic, 3 Keithick Place, Feus Road, Perth. Was issued by Sherriff Skinner in Perth Sherriff court yesterday.

 Mr Tarvit sued for £40 in respect of damage which he averred he sustained through being knocked down by the defender’s motor cycle on Saturday 20^th June last, while the former was accompanying a young lady home from Anstruther to St Monans. Interim Sherriff Skinner found in favour of pursuer, and assessed damages at £39 with expenses.

His lordship found in law that defender failed to keep to the left side, and failed to slacken his speed, and that he was guilty of negligence. Defender had failed to prove that pursuer was guilty of contributory negligence.

The Sherriff stated that about 50 yards from pursuer defender sounded his horn, but pursuer failed to hear it.

When defender was almost on him pursuer turned or stepped forward, so as to bring him slightly nearer the centre of the road.

The margin of clearance left by defender was so small that in consequence of stepping or turning pursuer sustained a lacerated wound on his left thigh, probably caused by the number plate of the bicycle in consequence of which he was debarred from following his occupation as a share fisherman from 20^th June till 27^th July.

Defender had failed to prove that at the time of the accident pursuer was ‘larking’ with his companion by stepping backwards and forwards towards the centre of the road.

1877

It turns out that the first prize, a pianoforte valued at thirty guineas, in the drawing of the freemasons of Arbroath, has been won by Mrs Margaret Myles, or Carmichael, a self-reliant widow, ‘ in a sma’ way of daein’, ” as they say on Borthick side, of a little provision shop which she has conducted for many years in Cellardyke. Margaret has had a lifelong pull against the stream especially after the death of her guidman, many years ago, and her windfall has been naturally hailed with lively sympathy by her neighbours. The ticket, which cost a single sixpence, was one of a lot distributed by Brother Wallace, late RWM of Old St Ayles. Lodge Anstruther.

1880

No little excitement was raised on Cellardyke shore, towards two o clock on Thursday afternoon, by an outbreak of fire in the well-known warehouse of Messrs Sharp and Murray, general merchants. So far as we can learn it originated in a lighted match falling upon some spilt turpentine on the floor of the sunk cellar under the shop. Of course it was a spark to the mine, and next instant the fire was running along the cellar, which was piled with merchandise of all kinds including turpentine, tar, &c, and other substances scarcely less explosive than gunpowder. It was a critical moment, but fortunately many of the fishermen were standing about, and a fire brigade at once active and willing being enlisted on the spot, and, with the flowing tide to draw from, water was poured so quickly and so plentifully into the cellar, that the fire was subdued before it gained mastery, which in a few minutes it must have inevitably done. For a time, however, the clouds of smoke which enveloped the scene excited the liveliest fears of the bystanders, and when the fire was subdued it was found that only less damage had been done by the salvage on the dry goods also stored in the cellar, though but for the cause referred to, the most serious consequences must have happened not only on the premises, but probably to the contiguous street.

1881

During the dense fog of Wednesday morning, the Cellardyke boat ‘Useful’ Thomas Boyter master, was run into by the steam trawler Fredrick James. The boat was riding by her drift, with a regulation light burning, but the steamer was scarcely her own length distant before the cry of the fishermen on the lookout attracted the notice of those on board. The helm was shifted but the sponsoon struck the bows of the boat so violently as to smash in the stem. Eventually the drift was hauled in, when the disabled craft was towed by the Fredrick James to Anstruther harbour,

1889

While off the May island on Saturday Afternoon, the Cellardyke boat Tomasina KY 378 was struck by a fierce gust of wind and her mast carried away. In falling it tore up about 14ft of the deck on the port side and broke a spare yard. The boat was drifting hopelessly when the Cellardyke boat Onward came to her assistance and towed her into Anstruther. The damage is estimated about £12

1891

‘The Scottish Cyclist’

The summer before last there came a company of cyclists, supposed to hail from Dundee, amongst them were some amateur photographers, who took a few snapshots round about, one of the views, being a small fishing yawl lying in Cellardyke harbour, in which a small boy was seated. Last year the lad was lost at sea, and this was the only photo ever taken of him, his bereaved parents are extremely anxious to procure a copy of it and have been trying for some months unfortunately without success. Anyone who can give a clue to the photographer will confer a very great kindness by communicating at once with Mr Thomas Cunningham, Harbourhead Anstruther. We trust that this appeal will be the means of satisfying the boy’s parents.

1903

Robert Keith, carter, West Forth Street and George Moir, carter toft terrace, appeared at Cupar today on a charge of having, on the 4^th February, within the shop as 21 John Street, Cellardyke, occupied by Albert Morris, confectioner, committed a breach of the peace, and caused Morris and his wife to run out of the shop in terror, whereupon Keith took possession of the shop, locked the doors and destroyed a quantity of fried fish and chipped potatoes. The complainant further set forth that Keith assaulted Helen Morris, by striking her on the breast with his fist and knocking her down, and that Moir assaulted Albert Morris by striking him a blow on the chest with his fist and knocking him down. Keith pleaded not guilty while Moir admitted the charge and said it was the first time that he had been in court. The Fiscal said that Moir was very much less guilty than Keith. The Sherriff passed sentence of a fine of 15s or seven days imprisonment. Keith’s trial was fixed for Tuesday 24^th inst

1832

Cholera

Immediately it was known that Cholera was in the port of Fisherrow, Mr Johnston, younger, of Renny Hill called a meeting of the Anstruther Easter, Wester and Kilrenny boards of health, when the unanimously resolved that in every intercourse by sea and land with Fisherrow and other infected places, should be instanter put a stop to. Mr Johnston informed the meeting that he had written to Captain Knight RN to send a boat’s crew here for the purpose of establishing a sort of quarantine guard over the harbours of Anstruther and Cellardyke… it is the duty of everyone to meet the emergency with every energy and prudent foresight, and to apply every remedy for its alleviation, for which soup kitchens have been opened this week in both East and West Anstruther for the supply of the poor with good fresh soup twice or three times a week.

1848

FARM DAIRY WOMAN WANTED

Wanted immediately for a farm on the East Coast

A Strong Active PERSON capable of taking the entire charge of Six or Seven MILCH COWS, and of Rearing twice as many CALVES, one who can COOK plainly will be preferred. To a thoroughly competent person good encouragement will be given. Communications mentioning previous engagements may be addressed to Mr Nichol, Schoolmaster, Cellardyke.  (Obviously a very frugal person, only wanting plain cooking)

1849

The Sloop Nancy from Whitby, for Leith, with alum, was wrecked on the Isle of May. The Master and one of the crew (William Baidland) saved but another (William Hutton) was washed overboard and drowned after the vessel had struck, his body has not been found. A boat managed from Cellardyke at the risk of their lives to the Island of May and took the master ashore.

Herrings have appeared in the Tay in such large numbers, a thing that has not happened for the last thirty years, this has induced Cellardyke fishermen to come and spread their nets in our river. The fishing ground is in the fairway between Balmerino bay and opposite Broughty castle.

1854

Anstruther

Andrew Black, baker write to his father ( Andrew Black, mason) that his brother , Philip has purchased a piece of land four miles from Melbourne, and another about 54 miles distant from that town. He also writes on a subject which we have hitherto been very much in the dark – the fishing in that country. William and Philip Black in company with three Cellardyke men named Boyter, Henderson and another..  had tried fishing in Geelong bay, and were earning from £3 to £5 per day, which leaves the diggings in the shade. The fish caught are thick and short and about the size of half cod. The fishermen there had kept their trade as much a secret as possible, but now, when the East Fife men have got a hold of it, the trade will soon be opened and this occupation will be more congenial to them than diggings.

1862

Early on Friday morning last as the crew of one of the Cellardyke boats were in the act of drawing their nets, one of them observed the mast to be falling down. He at once gave the alarm and his companions who could averted the stroke, but one, named Watson, seated in the stern was unable to move in time, and it consequently fell upon him, crushing him severely. He was immediately brought into harbour, and conveyed to his home in Cellardyke. Dr Macarthur was forthwith in attendance, who pronounced him to have received some sever internal injuries. He at present lies in a very precarious state. The accident was caused by a pin or wedge of the hasp which keeps the mast in its position having come out by the rolling of the boat.

1866

James Walker, fisherman, Cellardyke, was charged with having committed a breach of the peace by quarrelling and fighting with Robert gardener another Cellardyke fisherman in shores street, and also having committed an assault in the said Robert Gardener in East Green on the same evening,. The panel pleaded guilty to the breach of the peace but not the assault when five witnesses were called and examined for the prosecution and two for the defence. After hearing the evidence the bench found the charge clearly proven and sentenced Walker to a fine of 21s or 21 days imprisonment. The before mentioned Robert Gardener was then charged with having committed a breach of the peace at the same time and place, and having pleaded guilty as indicated was sentenced to a fine of 10s 6d or 10 days imprisonment. Both fines were paid.

1871

Deaths

At Cellardyke, on the 24^th ult, the infant son of Mr James Brunton, fisherman

At Cellardyke, on the 26^th ult, Marjory second daughter of Mr John Marr, merchant

At Cellardyke, on the 26^th ult, Mr Andrew young age 73

Loss of nets… when our Cellardyke crews pick up lost nets, or other sea gear, they never, as a rule make any charge for salvage, but return the articles to the unfortunate owners with as little expense as possible.

1873

On Thursday last the Australian mail was the medium of brining a most interesting and valuable gift to three well known and much respected Sabbath school teachers in Cellardyke, namely the venerable post master, Mr Thomas Brown, and his old associates in the same sacred task, Mr Thomas Cunningham and Mr William Watson, who each received a letter with a cheque for £10 as a token of grateful remembrance and affectionate esteem for their labours in the Sabbath school which he attended in the years of his boyhood from Mr Alex Watson, a native of Cellardyke and sometime Iron monger in Anstruther but who emigrated to Australia about 20 years ago and has latterly been very successful in the gold mines.

1876

One of the oldest inhabitants of Cellardyke died in the ancient house there which she had been born and had uninterrupted passed her long span of fourscore and seven years on Monday last. The venerable inmate was the last survivor of the family of the worthy James Wilson, who, for the long period of fifty six years was town officer and also the beadle of the parish, and who, by a curious coincidence, died at the same advanced age in the early spring of 1830’ it’s a strange thing hoo folk sometime get their ain” is a familiar Scottish saying, true if ever in Isabella Wilson’s case, seeing that the home keeping Cellardyke damsel was woo’d and wed by the young sailor Malcolm McRuvie, all the way from the dukes town of Inverary. This was some sixty years ago when the revenue cutters used to rendezvous in the Forth, when their black snake like hulls and flowing clouds of canvas were the pride of the sea, just as the blue jackets who manned them were to the hearts of the winsome lasses by the green old shore. The peace loving cutterman, however soon quitted the king’s service and cast his lot in with the hardy fishers of Cellardyke, and so a new name which has since spread and prospered, was added to the coast, he was endowed with no little observation and a kindly heart, and many a pleasant night was passed by his friends listening to his curious stories by the ancient hearth, which by the way was the last relic in the East of Fife of the old Scottish ingle, projecting with centre post to the very middle of the floor, and having a huge chasm for a chimney, so open in fact as to have enabled you to study astronomy by the winter fire. But the world is ever changing and years have elapsed since the old mariner went to his rest, where his faithful partner has now re-joined him..

1831

Cellardyke – as one of our boats was fishing about 10 miles S and by W of the bell Rock, when lo, instead of haddock they were actually engaged at musket fishing… they brought up by one of their small hooks a musket or blunderbuss loaded with powder and ball.. the musket is very ancient and most substantial workmanship… far superior to our modern ones.. all the brass mountings  are marked with a crown ( Spanish perhaps)  Whether the said musket belonged to any of the vessels of the Spanish Armada or that rover of the deep John Paul Jones let antiquarians decide.. It is in the possession of Baillie John Morrice, Cellardyke.

1840

The fishermen of Cellardyke have resolved to present an application to the Commissioners for the Herring Fishery, for aid to form a new harbour at Craignoon. – a place which according to the report of Mr Leslie civil engineer, is naturally well adapted for that purpose. The petition having been signed by nine tenths of the fishermen seems to imply there is but one opinion, both as to the fitness of the situation, and the great utility and necessity of a safe boat harbour at this part of the coast.

1866

On Saturday afternoon an accident of a very serious nature occurred to Robert Soutar, a carter in the employ of Mr David Keith, Fish Dealer Cellardyke. The unfortunate man was driving a fish van in which was also seated his employer and another man, when the horse from some cause or other stumbled and fell opposite the gas work. Soutar slipped from his position on the cart and fell before one of the wheels, which almost instantly came in contact with his head. The wheel without passing over the head of the prostrate man, severely crushed the left cheek and also fractured the jaw bone. . he was immediately conveyed to a neighbouring house, where all possible assistance was rendered until Dr Jamieson arrived to apply those surgical remedies which skill and experience alone suggest. The poor man still lies in a very precarious condition, but hopes are yet to be entertained that he may yet be restored to his helpless wife and family.

1868

Peter Thomson, general draper Cellardyke

Begs to announce that his annual sale will commence Saturday 25^th January to be continued for 3 weeks.

Plain Winceys in a variety of Shades 7d per yard

Aberdeen Winceys in a variety of shades 9 ½ and 11d

French Merinos 1s 6d – 3s

Best indigo (twilled) Pilots 10 s -11s 6d

Linene Sheetings 4s 4d and 8s 4d

Coton Sheetings 2s 11d per pair

400 yards of 4-4 white welsh flannels

A great variety of Mufflers

P Thomson would also like to draw attention to his superior stock of Scotch blankets.

Always on hand a large assortment of Ladies and Children’s hand sewed stays. Deserving every Public attention.

1870

Two very affecting instances of the uncertainty of life occurred in Cellardyke on Thursday morning. Christian Black, wife of Mr Anderson Lothian was attending a meeting in the town hall when as Mr Martin an evangelist from Glasgow was engaged in prayer, she fell down in a fit of palsy. She was carried to the house of Widow Watson which is under the hall where she died about ten hours afterwards. The other case was that of Helen Robertson, wife of Andrew Ringan shoemaker, who was found dead in bed by her son in the morning. Her partner who is about 80, was sleeping by her side, and his feelings on waking up may be conceived but never described. Both of the deceased were about 70 years of age.

 1879

A new herring net manufactory is in course of erection at Cellardyke ( no further info)

1880

 Aberdeen,  A Kirkcaldy haddock fishing boat which came into the harbour yesterday reported that James Bett skipper of the Cellardyke boat, Taeping, KY 1611  while attending to work on the boat was struck by the tiller and knocked overboard. A spar was thrown to him which he succeeded in getting hold of but on account of the stormy character of the sea, he was unable to retain his grasp, and before the boat had reached him he had sunk. Deceased was twenty six years old and was quite only married a year ago and leaves a wife and child

1892

Failure to Educate

Mr George Doig, Fisherman Cellardyke pled guilty to failing to comply with an attendance order granted against him for his boy who had not been at school since June last. He was fined 2s 6d with 1s 6d of expenses, An attendance order was granted against David Corstorphine Fisherman Cellardyke for his boy

1900

Ex Provost Watson, Cellardyke died at a late hour last night. He was provost of Kilrenny and Cellardyke for six years from 1877 to 1883 and was for some time previously a councillor. During his Provostship several improvements were carried through including the new town hall. He was a fisherman for many years but latterly gave up the sea to manufacture fishing gear and apparrell. He was 72 years of age.

1931

A well-known Cellardyke golfer. John C Watson, now professional with Erskine club, Southbound, USA was placed fourth in the recent Fort Lauderdale open tournament. Watson’s 216 was only 3 strokes more than the winner. Johnny Farrell and Willie Klien tied for second place with cards of 214 each.

1925

Kilrenny town council presented James Wallace apprentice Carpenter, Cellardyke with the Humane Society Testimonial on parchment in recognition of his bravery in rescuing a boy Andrew Henderson from drowning on 11^th June 1924…. The testimonial was one which Wallace might be well proud, and had no doubt it would hang side by side with the testimonial presented to his father for saving life at sea at Yarmouth in 1901. It was a splendid family record.

At the invitation of Pittenweem Football Club fully sixty five couples were present at a whict drive and dance in Pittenweem public school hall…. At the dance excellent music was supplied by Cellardyke Zazz Band.

1927

A familiar Cellardyke veteran

Our Portrait is that of auld Thamas Tamson who resides at 12 John Street. Cellardyke, and is in his 92^nd year. … Thamas is as fit as a fiddle and proudly boasts that he never had a doctor in his life except once when he broke three ribs on board his boat. He ran away to sea as a stowaway when 12 on board the wid jammer the Javis which sailed from Anstruther….. He got married when he was still sailing and naively tells that he left his ship and took to the fishing because his wife ‘didna see the use of being married when he was never at haime’  This was in the leisurely days before the trawling industry swept the ocean beds of their finny inhabitants and thereby ruined the simpler calling of the fisher craft

( a few days later the death of a successful Cellardyke trawl fisherman and owner is mentioned)

Mr James M Doig retired trawler owner and skipper who died on Saturday at his residence 169 Bon accord Street, Aberdeen was well known in the fish trade for many years. He was born in Cellardyke 76 years ago and with his brother and the late Stephen Williamson MP initiated trawling at that port. About 30 years ago he came to Aberdeen. Mr Doig who retired from the sea during the war is survived by Mrs Doig and a daughter

1928

Mr and Mrs A.D. Mitchell, Lenakel, Cellardyke have celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary. There was a gathering of relatives including their three sons, David, Provost of Kilrenny, Andrew of the Fife Coal Company, Cardenden and William designer to the Tayside Floorcloth Company, Newburgh, with their wives and six grandchildren. Mr Andrew Mitchell, the eldest grandson presented the couple with a purse of sovereigns….

1929

Evidence was led before Sherriff Dudley Stuart at Cupar yesterday in a small debt action at the instance of Peter Roy, 28 Rodger Street Cellardyke against John B Simpson hotel keeper Golf Hotel Crail for £18 17s 6d for poultry and poultry house said to have been sold and delivered to Mr Simpson. Defender counter claimed for £3 rent of ground adjoining the hotel. His lordship granted absolvitor and dismissed the counter claim.

 Anstruther and Cellardyke Unionist Associations held their annual social in the Town hall Anstruther. Dr D J J Wilson occupied the chair. Addresses were delivered by Commander Cochrane MP and Brigadier General Crosbie. A musical programme was provided by Mrs Hosie, Miss Gardner, Miss Carstairs and Messrs Wood, Macleod and Jack . Miss Ina Murray was the accompanist.

Mr and Mrs Robert Ritchie 57 James Street, Cellardyke celebrated their Golden wedding yesterday having been married on the 24^th January 1879 at Dunino by the Rev James Ewing.

1931

William Robertson, labourer of no fixed address was sent to prison for three months for a series of thefts in Cellardyke.

He stole, 1 from the lobby of Viewforth, West Forth Street, Occupied by Robert Barclay, railway goods guard as shower proof coat. 2. from the lobby of 2 Burnside a silk scarf, 3. From the lobby of 8 West Forth Street occupied by Thomas Watson fisherman a child’s oilskin coat and 4 from the lobby of St Anns, occupied by Henry Bett a retired Fisherman a woollen scarf. The owner of the silk scarf was returning from a football match when the accused approached him and asked to be directed to Colinsburgh. This Man thought he recognised the scarf the accused was wearing, and when on returning home he found the scarf missing he reported the matter to the Police. Robertson was ultimately found hiding in the Black Shed on Balcarres estate and the articles recovered.