Co Sutherland Daily News

2010-01-25T22:14:00.005Z

Wishing all our many members in Australia a Happy Australia Day.

So many from Sutherland went to Australia and settled into this great country but never forgot their roots. Isn't it a wonderful thought that so many descendants of these early pioneers are actively researching their roots today? We all have some great friends in Australia and today we wish them every joy on their National Day.

The image above is a stunning desktop for Australia Day created by Judy Meibusch.

Click on the picture to see it full size. You can download a set of all sizes HERE.

Also available as a card here.

PLUS

Stunning desktop created by Joan Currie using photographs taken in central Australia by her son Ben.

This desktop is available here again in a selection of sizes. Again click on the image to see it full size.

Thank you Judy and Joan, your Sutherland ancestors would be so proud of you today.

Enjoy

Chris

The First Sutherland Fencible Regiment

2010-01-12T10:23:00.001Z

Today we have an article sent in by Adair Polson-Genge which has been transcribed from an 1899 edition of 'The Celtic Monthly'. It is very interesting, particularly how the orders were issued from Court.

The First Sutherland Fencible Regiment 1759, by Eric Mackay, London

The recent attempt to deprive the Clan Mackay of the hour of having produced the Sutherland lard Rob Donn, has naturally drawn attention to the first Sutherland Regiment of Highlanders of which he was a member, and a few facts regarding the regiment may be of interest at this time.

This regiment was one of two raised in Scotland in 1759 for service in Great Britain. The renowned Pitt, afterwards Earl of Chatham, who in later years so justly boasted tat he had “sought for merit and found it in the mountains of the north” was first to suggest the idea.

Britain had suffered reverses abroad, and large drafts were necessary to retrieve her honour. The militia was raised in England, but owing to the recent disturbances in Scotland it was not thought desirable to extend the system there. Letters of Service were therefore granted for raising a regiment of Fencibles in the county of Argyll and a few weeks later, on the 7th of August similar letters wee granted to the Earl of Sutherland to raise a battalion of volunteers, being Highlanders in any county or part of our kingdom of Great Britain.

This order was superseded by one dated 11th August in similar terms, but restricting the recruiting areas to the counties of Sutherland and Caithness and places adjacent known to be well affected. The reason for this is obvious. About that time the Jacobite agents in this country were very active. An invasion from France was threatened, the expedition was being fitted out at Brest, and manifestations had been prepared for the press, in which, by the use of certain words, Prince Charlie’s presence in the country would be known to his supporters. Thanks to Pickle, and other traitors, the British Government was made aware of these movements, and care was taken to confine recruiting to these parts favourable to the Hanoverian cause.

The Letters of Service for raising the regiment are as follows:-

George R
Order for raising a Battalion of Highlanders
Whereas we have thought fit to order a Battalion of Highlanders, to be forthwith raised under your command, which is to consist of nine Companies of four Sergeants, four Corporals, two Drummers, and one hundred private men in each, besides Commission Officers, with two Pipers to the Grenadier Company; which men are not to be sent out of Great Britain, and to be entitled to their Discharge in three years or at the end of the War; these are to authorise you by beat of Drum or otherwise to raise as many (sic) Voluntiers (being Highlanders) in the counties of Sutherland and Caithness, and in Places adjacent known to be well affected, as shall be wanted to complete the said Battalion to the above mentioned numbers. And all Magistrates, Justices of the Peace, Constables and other of our Civil Officers whom it may concern, are hereby required to be assisting unto you in providing Quarters, Impressing Carriages and otherwise as there shall be occasion.
Given at our Court at Kensington this 11th Day of August 1759 in the thirty-third year of our Reign.
By His Majesty’s Command,
Barrington
To our Right, Treaty, and Welbeloved Cousin, William, Earl of Sutherland, Lieut-Colonel Commandant of a Batt. Of Highlanders, or to the officer appointed to raise men for our said Batt.

Particulars as to the arming of the Battalion exist in the following order, but the first portion being in identical terms to the Letters of Service, above quoted, it is unnecessary to repeat.

George R
Arms, etc., for a Battalion of Highlanders to be forthwith raised.
Whereas…………… Our Will and Pleasure is that out of the Stores remaining within the office of our Ordnance under your charge you cause the Arms, etc., wanting for the use of the said Battalion and mentioned hereunder to be forthwith issued and delivered to the Colonel of the said Battalion or whom he shall appoint to receive them; and you are to take the usual Indents for the same and Insert the charge therof in your next estimate to be laid before the Parliament, and for so doing this shall be as well to you as to all other of our officers concerned herein a sufficient warrant.
Given at our Court at Kensington the Tenth Day of August 1759 in the Thirty-third year of our Reign
By His Majesty’s Command
Holdernesse
To our Right, Treaty, and Welbeloved Cousin and Councillor, John Viscount Ligonier, Master General of our Ordnance.

Iron Ramrods, 936; Firelocks with Bayonets and Scablards, 936; Side Pistols and Straps, 972; Cartouche Boxes and Straps, 936; Halberts, 36; Drums, 18.

The halberts mentioned in the foregoing were for the Sergeants of companies. Within nine days of the Earl’s arrival in Sutherland 1500 men reported to the call to arms, and so great was the military ardour and patriotism that many of the disappointed men followed the regiment to Perth with the result that the authorities granted permission for the tenth company to be added. General Stewart records the impression created by this fine body of men –
“The martial appearance of these men when they marched into Perth in May 1760, with the Earl at their head, was never forgotten by those who saw them, and who never failed to express admiration of their fine military air. Some old friends of mine who often saw these men in Perth spoke of them with a kind of enthusiasm. Considering the abstemious habits or rather the poverty of the Highlanders, the size and muscular strength of the people are remarkable. In this Corps there was no light infantry company; upwards of 260 men being above the five feet eleven inches in height, they were formed into two Grenadier Companies, one on each flank of the Battalion.”

The regiment served for four years, during which time the behaviour was irreproachable, and though its duties were monotonous, being contained to garrison work, not a single man was punished. Had the opportunity occurred we may be sure that these men would have shown themselves worthy successors of the “Old Invincibles” of Gustavus.

It is a matter for regret that there does not appear to be a Muster Roll or Pay Sheet of the regiment in existence, unless it be in the possession of the Ducal family, but whether the poet was really an enlisted member if the regiment if open to doubt. Certain it is that Rob Donn occupied a more or less privileged position in the corps, probably akin to that of bard, an interesting survival of ancient times. The story is well known how at Inverness, a Major Ross, who had recently joined and was a strict disciplinarian, encountered the poet roaming about when the regiment was drilling. Nor knowing Rob, he demanded to know to which company he belonged, and was considerably astonished to get the reply “to every company”, an answer which enquiries fully explained.

That Rob should join the regiment was not surprising, as among the officers were the following Mackays, viz. :- Lieutenant-Colonel Hugh MacKay of Bighouse, Captain John MacKay of Strathy, and Lieutenants Donald Williamson (Mackay) of Banniskirk, Alexander Mackay, younger of Strathy, and James Mackay of Skerry. It was in the family of the last named that the poet’s early years of service were spent.

In 1762 the Seven Years’ War was at an end, and France, crippled by the loss of Canada and most of her Indian possessions, was going for peace, which the Treaty of Paris, signed 10 February 1763, eventually secured.

Meanwhile the orders were issued disbanding both the Argyllshire Fencibles and the Sutherland Highlanders in the following terms:-

Order and Instructions for disbanding Colonel Campbell’s Regiment pf the Fencible Men of Argyllshire and the Earl of Sutherland’s Battalion of Highlanders.

George R
Whereas we hac thought fit to order our Regiment of the Fencible Men of Argyllshire, commanded by our Trusty and Welbeloved Lieutenant-Colonel Dougal Campbell, and our Battalion of Highlanders commanded by our Right, Trusty, and Welbeloved Cousin, William, Earl of Sutherland, to be forthwith disbanded. Our Will and Pleasure is that you, or such person or persons as you shall appoint for this service, so immediately repair to the respective Quarters of the said Corps and disband them accordingly, and that in the disbanding of them the following Rules be observed.
1st   Before such disbanding you are to cause an exact Muster to be taken of the several companies of the said Corps, which you may draw together in the Quarters where they now are, or any other adjacent place as you shall see most convenient; and you are to give an account of their condition and numbers at the time of disbanding to our Secretary at War for our Information.
2dly   You are to take care before the disbanding the said Corps that the Quarters of each Company be duly satisfied, as also that the Accounts between the non-commissioned Officers and private Soldiers hereby disbanded and their Officers be made up to the Day of their Discharge, and that they be fully satisfied and paid their arrears or other just pretensions, whereof the said Officers are to produce Acquittances and Discharge from them respectively.
3dly   That care be taken that the Arms delivered out of our Stores of Ordnance and indented for, be returned thither again, and Acquittances taken for the same.
4thly   That care be taken that each non-commissioned Officer and private man hereby to be disbanded be permitted to carry away with him his Cloaths, Belt, and Knapsack which he now wears, and that each private Soldier, Corporal, and Drummer be paid three Shillings for his Sword, which is to be delivered with the other Arms into our Stores of Ordnance; and we being pleased to allow each Sergeant, Corporal, Drummer and private Soldier who shall be hereby disbanded fourteen days Subsistence as of our Bounty to carry them home, payment is to be made of the same to each of them respectively out of such monies as shall be advanced for that purpose, and you are to take receipts for the same from each non-commissioned Officer and private man respectively and transmit them to our Paymaster General as Vouchers for the Bounty Money so paid, and to send to our Secretary at War an authentic List attested in the best manner by yourself, or Officers commanding in chief our said Corps of the names of the non-commissioned Officers and private Soldiers so disbanded, and to give them passes in case they shall desire the same, to the places of their former residence, allowing them a convenient time to repair thither, and giving them likewise a strict charge that they do not presume to travel with any arms nor more than three in company upon pain of the severest punishment.
And to the end the said non-commissioned Officers and private Soldiers may be sensible of the care we have taken of them upon their dismission, you are to cause these our directions to be read at the Head of each Company for a more ready Compliance with our Pleasure hereby signified, and see the same be put in Execution.
Given at our Court at St James’s this 31st day of January 1763 in the third year of our Reign.
By his Majesty’s command
W. Ellis
To our Treaty and Welbeloved George Beauclerck, Esquire (commonly called Lord Geo. Beauclerck), Lieut-General of our Forces, or to the person or persons appointed by him for the Service above mentioned.

The regiment thus reduced was the first of the Fencible Regiments raised in Sutherland. The others were the Sutherland Fencibles of 1779, the Sutherland Fencibles of 1793, and the better known Reay Fencibles of 1798, the “brave and honest Reays” of General Lake, whose story has been so well told by Mr John Mackay of Hereford.

All these regiments did honour to the county of their origin, and it was mainly from the disbanded regiment of 1793 that the gallant 93rd Highlanders, the famous “Thin Red Line”, now the 2nd Battalion Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, was recruited.

Of the 80,000 men raised in the Highlands between the years 1759 and 1814 the county of Sutherland contributed her full share, and there is little doubt that much of this military patriotism was due to the example of that famous Scots Brigade, whose name is writ large in the military annals of Europe, “Mackay’s Regiment”.

Thank you Adair.

Today's Updates

2010-01-11T13:33:00.000Z

New article on Mackay Families of Acheilidh & Laid, Rogart.

Photograph added to article in our War Memorial site.

Maccallum Family

2010-01-06T08:55:00.000Z

New item today on the Maccallum Family of Durness in our Emigrant section.

Great photograph above shows descendants marching in the "Gathering of the Clans" in Edinburgh 2009.
Thanks to Phil Redmond, Australia, for the photographs and the information.

Updates

2010-01-05T22:29:00.000Z

One new item in Education in Sutherland - Scourie School photograph 1936.

The Dragon of Dornoch.

2010-01-05T10:07:00.000Z

Letter to the Editor:

December 28, 1933.

Sir: A curious story, handed down in local tradition, about the dragon of Dornoch ought really to be tested. According to the tale, the dragon was slain by Gilbert of Moray, Bishop of Caithness. But first let me explain about the Bishop’s connection with Sutherland.

Gilbert of Moray was son of Murdoe of Newton and Culbin, who was son of Alexander of Newton. This Alexander was son of Richard of Moray, who got the lordship of Newton in 1129 from his father Angus, the last Mormaer of Moray, killed at the Battle of Stracathro in 1130. Gilbert of Moray became Archdeacon of Moray about 1203, and between this date and 1211 he received a charter of the lands of Skelbo, which in those days embraced nearly half of Sutherland. This charter was confirmed by King William the Lion on 29th April 1212. (Sutherland, Book 3, pp1, 2.) Gilbert the Archdeacon of Moray became Bishop of Caithness in 1222, and he died on 1st April 1245. This gives us a limit of dates for the era of the dragon.

Gilbert of Moray is said to have built the castle of Skelbo before he gave the lands of Skelbo to his brother Richard of Moray, who had a charter of confirmation from King Alexander II, on 26th December 1235. (Sutherland Book, Vol 3, p6.) Richard of Moray was ancestor of the Murrays of Skelbo and Culrossie. According to the story, Gilbert must have been residing near Dornoch when a terrible dragon, which infested the woods and lochs of the muirs to the west, created great alarm in the little city. The dragon had a penchant for plump little girls; he was a lengthy brute, with a long neck, and as he lumbered along the street he would put his head in at a window, and gobble up a fair maiden. No one dared to attack the beast, for he could spout flames.

When Bishop Gilbert heard about the doings of the beast he determined to kill it. The dragon usually came along a well defined path from the woods of Camore, by Loch-an-Treel, where it used to slake its thirst preparatory to its raid on Dornoch. St Gilbert hit on a plan to destroy the beast, which was called “Dhu Guische”- the meaning whereof I leave to some kindly Gaelic scholar. Gilbert caused a long shallow tunnel to be dug in its path, having peepholes at intervals. Soon afterwards word was brought to Gilbert that the dragon was seen in the woods on its way to Dornoch. So Gilbert sallied forth with bow and quiver, and popped into the first hole to await the beast. When the dragon came within range Gilbert let drive an arrow, and then scuttled along the tunnel to the next hole, blocking the entrance after him. He peeped out of the hole number two to see the dragon spouting fire into hole number one. Gilbert let drive more arrows, and scuttled along to the next hole. He followed this method of attack until looking out of the last hole he saw the dragon weltering in its gore. They buried the dragon at the ‘Stone of the Beast” which still exists near Loch-an-Treel in Camore Wood.

Now, I venture to suggest the story ought to be tested by experts making excavation at the “Stone of the Beast”. Amateurs ought not be allowed to make search. A mere fragment of the remains would give a clue as to the species, and anyway it would be of interest to discover the reason for the existence of the “Stone of the Beast”. If the remains of the “Dhu Guische” or dragon, be found and reconstructed it would prove a gold mine for the burgh of Dornoch, if they placed the figure of the dragon in the centre of a maze, and made a small charge for inspecting it- I am &c.

D. Murray Rose.

The Scotsman, 1 January 1934 p11. [transcribed by Ron Patrick, Ontario.]
Photograph above shows Skelbo Castle.
They still seek the dragon in the woods!

4th January - back to normal!

2010-01-04T10:43:00.000Z

One new item in our County Sutherland Tribute today.
Have quite a number more to add and will do so as time allows. Please keep sending in information those commemorated on the War Memorials of Sutherland.

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T10:01:00.001Z

A note to wish you all a healthy, wealthy and happy New Year.

Sincere thanks to all who have supported us throughout the year.

See you next year with more!!

Have a good celebration tonight.

I will be toasting you all with a dram as the bells ring out the old and welcome the new!

Happy New Year.

PS This beautiful picture, sent to me yesterday, was taken in Durness, Sutherland this week - click on it to see full size - will fit a widescreen computer as a desktop

Cutting Peat today

2009-11-28T22:20:00.002Z

We featured the above photograph on our Durness People album a long while back.

The caption reads:
"This is my Great Uncle Hugh Mckay Campbell born 1859, Durness died 1934 Sangomore, Durness…Married Johan MacKay on the 2nd Dec 1898 in Tain. Pictured with adopted son Colin Campbell".
Donated by Isabel Griggs, Australia.

Now I have received a lovely note from a gentleman, Colin John Campbell Morrison which reads:

"I note that you have a picture of my great grandfather Hugh and his wife Johan (Han) in the "Durness people" section. My Grandfather Colin (who I am named after) passed away not so many years ago,and had a pretty varied life. He was in the Lovat scouts, trained as a blacksmith - the smiddy is still standing (sort of) and did a lot more besides. Interestingly, no-one knew he was adopted in our side of the family until after he died,but then it was such a common practice in the highlands at that time due to large families, that it was probably never thought of as an issue - who knows!
Today we stay on the croft at Sangobeag in the house above the beach,and are one of the last local families to cut peat in the district. So even although a lot of these traditions have been forgotten,it is important to maintain some links with our past. I have included a picture of a recent cutting, so at least you will have colour shot. Many thanks for bringing this picture to light,I also have a few more of prewar pics if you want a selection for the site".
Many thanks,
Colin John Cambell Morrison

and here is Colin's lovely photograph (click on the image to see full size):

Isn't it a delight to see and hear that the old crafts of the Highlands continue today?

I have replied to Colin that we will be delighted to see more photographs.
Chris

Updates on our Tribute site

2009-11-14T21:59:00.000Z

I must apologise if I have updated something and not made a note of it. Please just keep an eye on the LABELS.

updated information on Adam Grant

Added Beaumont Hamel British Cemetery, which includes reference and picture of Newfoundland Memorial.

Added Dornoch Cathedral

added a section on Orkney entitiled A. T. Murray

Added more photographs to New Zealand

Pte George Morrison

Sgt Robert Sutherland

Sgt. Alexander Macdonald

Alexander Sutherland and his brother Roderick

I still have lots to put up so please keep looking and keep on sending.
Thanks lots
Chris

War Memorial site updates for today

2009-11-11T22:48:00.000Z

David, Donald & Hugh Oliver
Pte. William McNicol
Vimy Ridge
Lt. Col. Donald A Mackenzie
Major & Captain Rose, Creich
Holten Canadian War Cemetery
Pte. James Murray
Merville Cemetery, France
Pte. W. M. Melville

More tomorrow.
Chris

Polson news from New Zealand

2009-11-11T09:58:00.006Z

On Sunday 1st Nov 2009 nearly 30 people gathered together on the finest day for months at Polson's Hut, Morven Hills, Lindis Pass. Why? To dedicate a new plaque over the graves of George and William Polson, twins, who were born and then died at Polson's Hut, during the winter of 1869. Their father John Polson was a Sutherlandshire shepherd on Morven Hills at the time and Christina his wife had given birth to the twins at Polson's hut, a small stone dwelling up on Morven Hills Station. It had been built about 1865 when big Jock McLean owned Morven Hills, then a Station of almost 400,000 acres.

The nearest doctor was 30 miles away in Cromwell. Fifteen months previously at Polson's Hut Roderick Polson had been born, probably without medical help, like the twins. In 1869 one baby was expected but two arrived, and much earlier than anticipated. It was so cold, first one baby boy died and then the other. Deep snow covered the ground. It was frozen solid for days and John couldn't dig their graves. By this time the babies were also frozen. No one was able to get in or out of the long three-mile valley, the police weren't able to visit the site, and although there was an itinerant registrar from Waikouaiti who visited Central Otago gold fields on horseback during parts of the year, the twins were never registered. At this time Morven Hills was part of St Paul's Church, Oamaru. The only other possible place to search for a registration was in the Presbyterian records for Otepopo, the parish that took in Morven Hills after St Pauls, but unfortunately these records are lost.

So there was never a funeral service for the twins but they were eventually buried when the ground thawed. The site was marked with a slab of Central Otago schist with the date, 1869, but no names. It is in the valley, over the hillside, in front of Polson’s Hut. It looks west and is a quiet and peaceful site. A willow was planted to mark the spot.

It was time to put this to rights. The old gravestone was threatened by the now dead willow tree planted 140 years ago, and Polson family members gathered together to complete a little grave-site maintenance and to place a new plaque for the twins memorial.

The new plaque reads: 'In loving memory of George and William Polson, twins, born and died in the winter of 1869 Polson's Hut.'

It took relays of four people to move the plaque slowly over the hill to next valley and to position it above the graves, placing the old original schist behind the new replacement.

The descendants of John and Christina and their families had travelled from Rotorua, Christchurch, Ashburton, Dunedin, Timaru and Invercargill for the twin's dedication and blessing. Also present were interested families from local Shirlmar and Forest Range Stations and representatives from the Historical Cemeteries Trust of New Zealand.

After the heavy work, lunch was enjoyed together under the willows at Polson's hut. Then it was back over the hill to the graves. Great, great grandson Rhys, who had helped saw down the old tree, relocated a few logs for seats, moving them around as if they were matchsticks.

The Rev Neil Cowie from Wanaka gave the dedication and blessing for the twins, his words very appropriate for the occasion. Water from the River Jordan mixed with a little Wanaka tap water was sprinkled about the two little graves, and eventually the new stone was unveiled. Allan Polson from Timaru, Adair Polson-Genge from Invercargill, Jean Allpress from Christchurch, and Ross Polson from Ashburton spoke on behalf of the family.

The occasion finished with photos of all the Polson descendants grouped around the plaque.
Top photograph: Shows direct descendents of John and Christina Polson, who gathered at the gravesite, spanning three generations and represented the families of three of the twin’s younger siblings.The two small children in the photo are Adair's grandchildren Lily and Liam.
Thank you to Adair Polson-Genge for sharing this with us.
Other article by Adair: HERE

More updates on War Memorials

2009-11-10T20:07:00.001Z

Added today stone to John Munro
Added burial information to and grave picture to his brother William

Added Feuchy Chapel British Cemetery

Thomas Matheson and brother Alexander

Alexander K Sutherland

Added Vis-en-artois

Added Donald Gunn

Added names to Creich War Memorial

John A. Sutherland

Donald Morrison

Bull Road Cemetery, France

Started the New Zealand Roll of Honour
I have a lot to add to this one.

Sorry if I missed anything that I updated.

More tomorrow.
Chris

Updates on our Tribute site

2009-11-09T17:19:00.001Z

Please note that if you have sent me information on War Memorials and you do not see it up yet it will come soon. Huge pile still to put up. In the meantime here are the updates since first launched. Please keep sending information in.

Added photograph of William Neil Morrison

Peter Gordon in Torboll, Dornoch

William Gordon, Cambusmore, Golspie

Etaples, France

Lachlan and Donald Murray

Elliot brothers

Ploegsteert Memorial Belgium

Pte William Murray, Gordon Highlanders

Donald and Hector Ross
Have added a grave photo to the article

William Grant

Valenciennes Communial Cemetery, France

James Mackay

Scottish national war memorial pics added

Durness war memorial, changed photograph for three new ones

More tomorrow with luck!

Chris

The War Memorials of Sutherland

2009-11-07T10:47:00.003Z

Our War Memorial section now has a brand new tribute area with much more information and photographs.

As we begin Remembrance Week please take time to visit it.

HERE

Please also visit the Touch of Class GALLERY to view the lovely commemoration cards or keepsakes created by our talented artists.

Remembrance desktops HERE and HERE

Also take a look at yesterday's post if you have not already done so.

The Grave Marker - exciting update

2009-11-06T09:01:00.001Z

You may recall the earlier item on James Mackay, Aird, Skerray, Tongue, who died in Australia in 1925.
Have just added a postscript to that article. A big success story. Inspiration to us all to continue digging!
Article HERE.

Macleod from Assynt

2009-10-28T08:56:00.001Z

I wonder if anyone recognises this photo. ... it is of Donald Macleod's three sons (don't know their names).

Donald was the son of Hector Macleod & Hughina M Fraser Macleod, who married 1875 in Stoer, Assynt.

I have been told that Donald joined the Navy, but I haven't been able to find him....also I think they went to live in Edinburg.

Thanks in advance

Betty Sheather

A new desktop wallpaper for you

2009-10-12T18:31:00.001+01:00

All of the members of the Touch of Class Group have some ancestral roots back in Sutherland Scotland.

I don't know if you have ever popped in to Strictly Sutherland where we occassionally post desktop wallpapers.

This is one which I have posted today.It comes in various sizes to fit most desktops.

Zip download link is on the website.

Judy

Happy Thanksgiving Canada

2009-10-10T20:15:00.002+01:00

To our many members and friends in Canada

who are celebrating their Thanksgiving

this weekend we wish you a great time.

Enjoy the turkey and we hope you all have family or friends

to share it with.

Still time to send cards from either our Gallery or our safe easy E-Card site.

Thankyou to the girls in out Touch of Class team for all their hard work creating cards for us to send.

Have fun.

A Brave Young Man from Golspie

2009-10-01T21:02:00.002+01:00

Information has just reached Golspie of the gallant conduct of Mr. Hector Macdonald, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Macdonald (Baikie), Golspie in saving the life of a Spanish boy, to the imminent danger of his own, at Seville in Spain.

Hector is 17 years of age and is one of the crew of the splendid yacht "Catania" belonging to His Grace the Duke of Sutherland. The "Catania" is presently cruising in the Mediterranean, and has on board the Duchess of Portland, the Duke of Sutherland and a party.

At Seville on 29th May, a boat containing a Spanish boy and other passengers put off from the yacht for the shore, and while in mid river the boy fell overboard and, being unable to swim, was rapidly carried away by the strong current which was running at the time. Without a moment’s hesitation, young Hector Macdonald (a worthy holder of a great name) dived from the yacht with all his clothes on, and swam to the the boy’s assistance. Not without great difficulty did he at last succeed in saving him, but after an hour’s struggle in the water he got him safely on shore. The first to congratulate young Macdonald on his magnificent feat was His Grace the Duke of Sutherland, who is naturally very proud of the young man. Those in possession of local knowledge inform us that deaths by drowning in the river at Seville are frequent, by reason of the strong currents, and Macdonald’s great rescue is thus more enhanced.

It will be remembered that, after the Coronation, Hector received a gold medal for swimming at the gracious hands of Her Majesty Queen Alexandra. He was one of the young boys who took advantage of the Duchess of Sutherland’s kindness, in providing professional teachers, to learn the art of swimming, and that the result, as given in the first part of the article, has justified the instruction, who can deny. We are all proud of Hector, not only because he is a native of Golspie, but because he is of that type where the desire to save others in danger, has whole place in his heart, and because that desire is always uppermost wherever he goes – in home or on foreign lands. (June 17th 1909 from the NT).

Hector Macdonald was born in Golspie on 17th December 1891, son of Alexander Macdonald, fisherman, and Margaret Macrae.

Many thanks to Sheila Mackay for finding the above article in the Archives.

You can read more about the "Catania" and other items of transport owned by the Duke HERE. Click on The Catania.

How we all help each other!

2009-09-29T21:55:00.001+01:00

As you all know I receive many emails via the website requesting help. On Sunday this week I received an email from a lady who had found, while going through her late mother's documents, receipts for a lair in Creich new cemetery. She assumed that as her grandfather was born at Bonar Bridge, Creich, the booked lair was for him. As he died in Edinburgh a long time ago it was quite a long shot but worth a question.

As luck would have it I did have some information on the grandfather's family which showed that most of the family were buried in Ardgay, Kincardine, across the bridge from Bonar Bridge. The receipts for the lair were very real so had to be checked. Quickest way I could think of was an email to our friend Hector Macrae in Bonar Bridge. This was on Sunday afternoon. Did he know anything or could he next time he was passing the cemetery maybe have a look.

Before lunchtime on Monday I received a photograph of a gravestone on that lair and yes it was for the lady's grandfather. Bingo. An email from me to her with Hector's great pic and one happy lady wrote back that she was thrilled to receive this in less than 48 hours from her original query.

We often have successes but this is a great result. Thanks to Hector we also have the lovely picture above taken yesterday morning looking over the new extension at Creich Burial Ground.

This just shows what we can do when we all work together and when we ask questions.

Telling you this for two reasons, one delighted with the result and secondly it was only a lair receipt in a pile of old papers - never ignore any clue.

Another success story tomorrow.

Chris

Rogart Free Church

2009-09-28T10:19:00.001+01:00

I have transcribed the births and marriages from the

Rogart Free Church Congregation Minutes of Kirk Sessions book.

These can now be seen on our main website at

www.countysutherland.co.uk

click on Rogart, then Free Church

Chris

Sons of Sutherland, Adam Gunn

2009-09-23T20:33:00.009+01:00

Rev. Adam Gunn, M.A., Durness (born 1859)

"Adam is a son of the late Alexander Gunn, crofter, and Christina Mackay, one of a dozen from that district at the present time in the ministry. He received his early training under Mr Anderson of Strathy Public School, a most successful teacher. After two years in the Grammar School, Aberdeen, he proceeded to St Andrew's University, where in 1881, he gained the first bursary open to general competition of the value of £100. He had a distinguised university career, carrying of several prizes and honours; among others, the first prizes in the classes of English Literature, Logic and Metaphysics, and the second prize in Moral Philosophy. While prosecuting his theological studies at New College, Edinburgh, he took advantage of the Gaelic class taught where he gained the second prize in the junior, and the first prize and medal in the senior division. On receiving license to preach from the Presbytery of Tongue in 1888, he was a few months thereafter appointed colleague and successor to the late Rev. James Ross, Durness, where he has labourered since. Mr Gunn takes a deep interest in the temoral as well as spiritiual welfare of his people and has been member of the County Council, School Board, and Parochial Board and latterly of the Parish Council of which body he is now chairman." (Biographical Notices, Sutherland and the Reay Countries, published in Edinburgh 1897).

Adam Gunn died on 24th October 1925 in Golspie hospital, usual residence The Manse, Durness where he was the Free Church Minister.

The full book from which the article is taken is available on CD HERE. It contains many similar articles.

Durness Snippets

2009-09-22T13:57:00.002+01:00

Durness, one of the world's most beautiful spots.

Here are a few snippets you may not have known:

DEPORTATION.
The approach to the Parish of Durness from the east is by the A838, a double track road that rises up from the Kyles of Tongue to cross the Moine, once known as the most dangersous peat bog in Scotland. The area had been considered as an alternative to deportation to Australia for criminals.

BRAHAN SEER PROPHECIES
Eriboll - Beacuase of its proximity to the sea route from the South Atlantic to North and West Europe it became well known to hundreds of navy personnel during the Second World War as "Loch 'Orrible". Owing to its size, location and the remotness it became a sfe anchorage for the assembly of the Atlantic Convoys, before setting out to run the German U-Boat gauntlet. At the end of the war, in 1945, ironically the German U-Boats surrendered here, thereby possibly confirming a prohecty of the seer, Brahan, that one day a war would end here.

WEATHER
Winter here can be merciless, snow on the ground, pale grey sea and sky seem to roll into one, daylight is short and when the wind and rain blow together the rain gets in everything. Spring with frost on the ground and bright clear days makes you feel good tobe alive. At the end of June you can read a newspaper outside at midnight, long days and balmy nights. Between September and April, the dfisplays of the Norhtern Lights even cause the locals to stand and stare in aew at the lights dancing and flickering in the night sky.

BALNAKEIL CHURCH
The church transerred to the Catholic faith in the 12th century and its first authentic records of 1190 are to be found in the Vatican. The church at Balnakeil supplied oild and incense to Dornoch in the 13th century. The ruins we see today are what remains of the church built by Lord Reay in 1619.

OUR WEBSITE

has lots of information on Durness including -
photographs & transcriptions of all three burial grounds in the parish
The Free Church Registers of Durness
the 1809 Militia List
Strathbeg People
More Snippets
plus lots more.

A Very Clever Man

2009-09-21T17:13:00.000+01:00

"I will venture to say that in the whole of this island there exists not a more intelligent pupulation connected with the labouring and industrial interest, than the pupulation of the County of Sutherland". Speech in Parliament by the Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone.

Not certain when he made this particular speech but can tell you that William Ewart Gladstone was Prime Minister of Great Britain four times between 1868 and 1892. Obviously a clever man.

Snippets from the Stafford Archives

2009-09-18T18:55:00.002+01:00

Little snippets that sometimes are just what we need to give us a clue!

D539/K/1/3/69 Jan 1881:

Vacant lot R 91 Dalchalm, Clyne. Widow John Sutherland giving up lot.
Applicants;
1 John Gunn shoemaker 61 Dalchalm. Single with 3 grown up sisters- occupies the adjoining house on west side

2 Widow Donald Mackenzie. Son and Daughter both at home, single. 1/2 lot not the house

3 George Grant, slater, Dalchalm. Son of Neil Grant 59. Married, living in lodgings at Green hill.

4 Colin Sutherland, surfaceman. Married living in “Collier Zorr”? Brora

5 Colin Munro – Colliery, Brora. Married, son of William Munro 84, Dalchalm - only remaining son in the country.

6 Wd Macdonald – pauper, belonging to Creich. Widow of the late Satation Master at Kildonan, wants house not land

D593/K/1/3/5 Jan 1817

M. Robertson Brora copy of letter from P Sellar to M. Robertson
“Culmaily 14th Dec 1817. I have this day another letter from M. Loch, to say that he expects you will give out, none of his Ladyships meal at Brora unless to take people, actually in the familys employ ther, unless in any particular case which you and I may join in thinking a necessary exception from the rule, and I am sure you will attend punctually to the injunction.”

D539/K/1/3/69 Feb. 23 1881

169 East Clynekirkton, vacant lot. Wd. Wm. Ross died 5th Feb. Land worked by Andrew Sutherland
Donald Sutherland R 154 alleges promise.
John Gunn R 157
Wd Gerd. Sutherland R 169

Transcribed by Kay Henderson
Look out for more snippets in the future.

Scottish Style Wedding in New Zealand

2009-09-17T18:45:00.003+01:00

Wedding at Waikoikoi, West Otago.

A very pleasing ceremony at the farm of Mr Alexander Reid on Thursday, the 9th August 1894, in connection with the marriage of his eldest daughter, Miss Bella Reid, to Mr Ronald McDonald, eldest son of Mr Ronald McDonald, farmer, Wairuna. Miss Reid had charge of Mr Wm. Reid’s store at Waikoikoi for a number of years, and was very popular amongst her customers, and always had a cheery word and a smile on her face for everybody. She also took a lively interest in all social entertainments, and will be much missed at the township. A very large number of presents for the bride were on view the night of the marriage, showing the respect in which she was held by all classes of the community.

The pleasing ceremony was performed in a very impressive manner at 3 p.m. by the Rev W J Comrie in the presence of a large number of friends. The bride looked very pretty in a dove coloured cashmere dress, white silk vest, with orange blossoms dexterously and tastefully arranged. The bridesmaid, Miss Annie Reid, sister of the bride, wore dove-coloured cashmere, with white lace trimmings. The best man was Mr Charles McDonald, brother of the bridegroom.

Mr and Mrs Reid are to be commended for upholding the good old custom in Scotland of inviting their friends and neighbours to a good dinner and a night’s amusement. The bride and bridegroom had also the common sense to stop and enjoy themselves amongst their friends: the prevailing custom in the colonies is now for the bride and bridegroom to clear out as soon as the knot is tied and leave their guests to whistle or make a foolish spectacle of themselves by eating and dancing without the bride. According to invitation the guests began to arrive at 7 p.m, and were treated to an excellent dinner, presided over by Mrs Reid, Miss Annie Reid and a few lady friends assisting. Everything was in apple-pie order, and carried out in a most liberal manner. Dinner being over they all repaired to the large barn to have a dance. Over forty couples took the floor for the Grand March, Mr John Murray acting as M.C. Mr Jas. Cooper and Mr Fred Cullen supplied the music, and everything went on “ as merry as a marriage bell.”

Mr Reid with commendable forethought had a room set apart for those who were not inclined to indulge in the “light fantastic;” there they could engage in a game of cards, and of course the draughts board was on the table and in great demand. I noticed an interesting match of five games between two noted players, Mr John Spark and Mr Jas Sheed, which resulted in two wins for each and a draw. About midnight the guests were treated to an excellent spread of sandwiches and cake and about 4 o’clock the company began to disperse. Songs were given during the evening by Messrs Murdoch, Cullen, Williams; Misses Simmers and Gray; and Mrs Wm Bremner. Mr R Simmers in a few well chosen remarks eulogised the good qualities of the bride, and called for three cheers for Mr and Mrs Reid for the excellent manner in which all had been entertained. Needless, to say cheers were given with great gusto, and the company dispersed highly pleased with the night’s entertainment.

Background
Isabella (Bella) Reid is the eldest daughter of ALEXANDER REID of St Andrews-Lhanbryde, near Elgin, Morayshire, Scotland, (son of George Reid and Isabella Miller) and CATHERINE SPARK, (daughter of crofter William Spark and Catherine Watt of Windford Cookney), who are buried in the Cowie Cemetery. Catherine and Alexander married in Cookney in the parish of Fetteresso, Kincardineshire in 1865 and shortly after their marriage the young couple (Catherine was 20 and Alexander was 29) left Scotland for Queensland, Australia. Finding the climate too humid, they sailed for New Zealand and settled at Milton, Otago for a short period. Catherine’s brother, JOHN SPARK, had already settled in New Zealand having sailed on the ‘Nelson’ in 1863.

The opening up of the land around the goldfields in Central Otago saw Alexandra Reid and his brother in law, John Spark, acquire some land on Murray’s Flat, between Waitahuna and Milton. They farmed approximately 50 acres.

When land opened up in the Waikoikoi district (near Tapanui) in West Otago, Mr and Mrs Reid and John Spark each took up a 200 acre block of land. Alexander and Catherine Reid farmed there for many years and raised a family of 9 sons and 2 daughters.

Alexander & Catherine Reid are my great grandparents and Isabella is my great aunt.
Zelda Matheson, New Zealand

Shepherds & Birds!

2009-09-16T09:28:00.006+01:00

Snippets from the tales of John Laurie, An Eccentric Sutherland Dominie by Daniel William Kemp, published 1892.

Laurie’s residence in various parts of central and north Sutherland extended from 1818 to 1825. The events of this period made a deep impression on his mind; the striking scenery, the intense solitudes, the flocks of sheep, the absence of human life, in those vast stretches of mountain and glen greatly exercised him. He gradually and insensibly got to look on sheep with as great feelings of detestation as Lord Ashburton is said to have done. Such was Lord Ashburton’s intense hatred of sheep-farming, that he would not allow a single sheep to be grazed on any part of the estate of Rosehall. Whenever he saw a sheep he would immediately point at it with his silver-headed cane, and exclaim at the top of his voice, “There, goes goes the enemy of man! These are the vile creatures that have been the cause of so much misery in the county.”

Writing of this period, Laurie says – “During the first seven years of my residence in the county, every day when I traversed the hill ridges, I always saw flocks of deer, from fifty to sixty in number, frisking and bounding through the mountains in all their pride and beauty. The sight was lovely to contemplate. I gazed on it with rapture and delight. So numerous were the deer at this period, that many shepherds supplied their large families with venison through the whole year. Every day during the season they were out with their guns, and generally shot two fat bucks. These were taken to their houses on horseback, where they were salted and packed in barrels, which afforded to the inmates many rich and savoury repasts.

Sutherland, at this happy period, was to sportsmen and anglers an unknown land. Steamboats and railways had not, as yet, brought to its shore and lovely glens these highly favoured mortals. Nature reigned supreme in all her great and glorious works. The rivers teemed with fish, the mountain moors with grouse and deer. At the eternal command of the Almighty, they increased and multiplied, and brought forth abundantly, by which they became nutritious food to many honest and industrious families.

These scenes, alas, soon passed away never to return. A new policy was adopted for the future management of the estate of Sutherland, in order to augment its rental. The rivers were let to tacksmen and anglers. All the sheep-farms were divided into grouse shootings, and let to sportsmen. Water-bailiffs and gamekeepers were appointed to guard and protect the rivers and moors from invasion. Strict orders were given to apprehend all poachers, and send them to Dornoch jail. The sovereign mandate was implicitly obeyed, and rigorously enforced.

A tall, robust, young shepherd was one morning apprehended, and sent to Dornoch jail, a brace of moorfowl having been found in his possession. He was ordered to be imprisoned for three months. The manager of the sheep-farm, fearing that the long imprisonment would impair his health, and render him useless in future life, generously paid the fine, by which the young man was immediately liberated from his gloomy confinement. The shepherds were so infuriated at his incarceration that they determined to satiate their revenge. All the shepherds on the estate of Sutherland entered into a solemn league and covenant to break all the eggs of the moorfowl wherever they should be found.

The work of destruction immediately commenced, and continued with unabated fury. In traversing the hills one day in company with two shepherd and their sons we had hardly proceeded a mile when on of the boys exclaimed at the top of his voice – ‘Father! Father! Here is a moorfowl’s nest with twelve eggs.’ ‘Smash, smash them Bill,’ was the command which was instantly obeyed. During our short route through the hills, six moorfowls nests were wantonly destroyed, which contained about sixty eggs. The merciless destruction continued during the season by the shepherds on the estate of Sutherland, by which thousands of eggs were destroyed.

When the shooting season commenced, the sportsmen were utterly astonished at the paucity of the moorfowl, for which they could not comprehend the cause. Some imputed it to the shepherds burning too much heather, others that they had burnt it out of season; some asserted that it was the ring-worm, and proposed that a jubilee should be granted for two years. The shepherds, in the meantime, were all laughing among themselves, and exclaiming to one another, ‘What great gowks our gentry are making of themselves by their stupid nonsense.’

An old shrewd shepherd at one of their meetings made a speech, which he concluded with the following remarks:- ‘Our gentry and sportsmen are the greatest idiots on the face of the earth. I used to respect the gentry at one time, but now I despise them, for I really believe that they are all nothing but a parcel of fools, and I think that a nutshell is quite sufficient to retain all their common sense. Some are saying one thing, some another, but I tell them they are all wrong. It is not to the burning of too much heather, nor to the ring-worm, but to our good strong sticks, with which we smashed the eggs, and we will smash them again and again, until every moorfowl is destroyed in Sutherland, if they ever dare to send to jail any of our sons for merely killing a Moorcock!’ On concluding the speech, he was vociferously cheered. The meeting then broke up, every member pledging himself to break all the eggs of every moorfowl’s nest, should any shepherd by incarcerated for poaching”!

Note: picture above is of pheasants which I 'think' are the same family as grouse and they all come under the title moor fowl. The above picture is from a painting by Daniel Giraud Elliot, 1872, now in public domain.

Hector's Last Resting Place

2009-09-14T22:49:00.007+01:00

This story is a brilliant example of how the County Sutherland mailing list can help people. Judy in Queensland, Australia, read Lynn's post to the list and responded with all the detail needed for Lynn to acquire the necessary documentation. On top of that Lynn now has photographs of Hector's Final Resting Place in Rookwood Cemetery, Sydney, Australia, when one of our members in Sydney, Joan, took a day out to go hunt for his grave and returned with lots of great photographs.
Wow! If you are not already a member of this great list you can join HERE.
Chris

Lynn writes from Inverness, Scotland:

Hector was born in 1828 in Durness, Sutherland and baptised on November 18th 1828, the second of 4 children and only son of Charles Mackay (1785 – 1871) and Hectorina “Heckie” Morrison (1797 – 1849). His siblings were Mary (c.1826 – 1911), Elizabeth “Betty” (1832 – 1868) and Honour “Orina” (c.1834 – 1919). All were born in Durness, Sutherland with the exception of the eldest Mary who’s Birthplace varies with the censuses but is probably Ireland as Charles is a Pensioner of the 93rd Regiment who, as far as I can gather, were in Ireland around the time of Mary’s birth.

In 1841 Hector appears on the census with his parents and 2 of his siblings, Betty and Honour, next door is his Aunt Barbara Morrison (Hectorina’s Sister) and her son William Mackay. In 1851 Hector is still in Sangomore with his Father Charles, 2 of his siblings Mary and Orina and his Aunt Barbara Morrison. His sister Elizabeth is in Balallan, Lochs, Isle of Lewis with her cousin William (mentioned above) who is the Schoolmaster there.

On 26th December 1853 Hector is staying at Gobernuisgach, Strathmore, Sutherland and is Teacher to the Forester's children for that winter, on this date he wrote a beautifully written letter to his cousin William. In this letter Hector talks about how Caithness is among the poorest places in Scotland for a day’s wages and that he would be extremely willing to go to Australia if he could, but unless he could get to some employment for the ensuing season, he could not manage it even though there would be free passage. Hector also talks about the previous summer and how the Marquis of Stafford had been looking to recruit men from Sutherland as Cutter men, all were recruited from Assynt due to a fault by the Ground Officer. As can be seen from this letter, Hector is well educated. Hector also mentions that those that are already in Australia are sending very good accounts and are advising all that can go to go.

Well Hector did get to Australia, on the 29th of July 1854 Hector and his Sister Elizabeth left Liverpool, England on the “Hornet” bound for Geelong, Australia on a passage assisted by the Highland & Island Emigration Society, cost was £5.13.10. Hector and Elizabeth arrived in Geelong on the 24th October 1854, where Hector had found work on his own account, where I do not know (from his above mentioned letter I would presume Hector had secured the work before he set sail for Australia. Also mentioned in the letter was Alan Mather, son of John Mather. Alan was engaged as a Manager of a shop over in Australia, did Alan maybe secure work for Hector?). Elizabeth was engaged by Thomas Bates of Ashby on the 31st October. Both Hector and Elizabeth could read and write.

Hector died on the 13th of April 1895 in Australia and is buried in the Presbyterian Section, Grave 2851, section 5A, Row 12 of Rookwood Cemetery, Sydney, Australia; he is also commemorated on stone number 95 of Balnakeil Cemetery, Durness, Sutherland where his parents and two of his Sisters – Mary and Elizabeth are buried. His Uncle William Morrison (Heckie’s Brother) is also commemorated on this stone although I am unsure whether he is buried here too. Stone number 97 at Balnakeil is where Hector’s maternal Grandparents William Morrison and Betsy Mackay and Aunt Barbara Morrison (their daughter) is buried. This stone was erected by Barbara’s son William (mentioned above), and my 3 X Great Grandfather.

Hector’s Maternal Grandmother Betsy Mackay (1772 – 1798) is from the Skerray branch of Mackay’s, her patronymic being “NINACHINMACDHOLICACHINSKERRAY” - Daughter of Hector of the family of Hector of Skerray.

I have just not long received the reference for Hector’s Death Certificate and instructions on how to obtain a copy, which may give me some more information on what Hector got up to during his 40 years in Australia. Many thanks to Judy and Joan for all their help with Hector, the photos of where he is buried in Australia are a wonderful addition to my collection.

Lynn Mackay, Inverness

More photographs HERE.
(Ref EM0007)

Matheson, Shinness, Lairg

2009-09-14T20:16:00.004+01:00

Hello, my name is Charles Matheson, Sr. and I have enrolled in the Family Tree DNA project for the Matheson Clan.

According to this program, my line goes back to 1530 and the Matheson who was in Shinness, Lairg, at that time. Therefore, I am trying to find information about that location and any Matheson who still resides there.

My great-grandfather, Neil Matheson was born aboard a ship I was told, in the waters off the coast of Toronto, Ontario, Canada in 1823. However, I do not have the names of his parents or the ship they sailed in from Scotland. Neil married Mary Ann Smallwood in the year 1851 in Seymour, Jackson County, Indiana where they are both buried in 1870.

I would like to see a map of the area if there is one on the internet and would enjoy hearing from anyone with information about same.

My wife and I attended the gathering of the Matheson Clan back in 1996 in Scotland where we met the Chief and many other Matheson’s from around the world. We also spent a week touring the Highlands but it did not include your area.

My family tree is posted with FamilyTreeDNA.com. but it is not complete because I can not find the above information.

Thank you for your help and may God bless you.

Charles

Macdonald, McDonald, etc.

2009-09-14T15:27:00.005+01:00

Pamela McDonald, Western Australia, has now opened her new website, "The Clan Donald Society, Western Australia".

For all you Macdonald researchers it is worth a visit. I enjoyed reading how the clans operated.

Glenda James, a member of our mailing list, is the Societies researcher.

We wish you all well with this lovely site.

Chris

Golspie Boy in New York

2009-09-11T14:59:00.005+01:00

DONALD MACDONALD

“His friends in Golspie will be pleased to hear of the success of Mr Donald Macdonald, son of Mr and Mrs Alexander Macdonald, The Sheiling, Alistair Road, Golspie, who has lately been appointed traffic engineer and controller in New York of the International Telegraph and Telephone Company. This is one of the most responsible posts in the telegraph and cable world, as it carries with it complete control of all cables, telegrams, and wireless messages sent from New York to every part of the world.

The appointment was made when the Mackay Companies (the Commercial Cable Company and the Postal Telegraph Company) were merged with the International Telegraph and Telephone Company. About 250,000 cables and telegrams are handled daily throughout the system, and Mr Macdonald has direct charge of some 25,000 employees. He is the youngest man in the telegraph and telephone systems to hold a post of such responsibility.

Mr Macdonald entered Golspie Post Office in November 1900 as telegraph messenger, and in June 1903 became telegraph learner. He left this office in October 1903, having proved himself an efficient telegraphist. He went to London in 1904 to a Post Office appointment, and after having served in the Western Telegraph Company, the United Wireless Company of America, and the American Marconi Company, he joined the Commercial Cable Company as an operator.

In this Company he was promoted successively to overseer, supervisor, and finally assistant Superintendent. On the merging of the Mackay Companies with the International Telegraph and Telephone Company, a man capable of undertaking the great responsibility of the post of traffic engineer had to be found. He was found – and we are proud to know that he is a Golspie boy. To his parents, who are much respected citizens of Golspie we offer our sincere congratulations. We are proud of their son's meritorious record and all the more so because he is one of our Golspie boys”. (NT 22/9/1932)

We know from reading the above that Donald's father was Alexander. Does anyone know who his mother was?
(ref EM0008)

Chris

PS New desktop wallpaper on Strictly Sutherland.

A real mystery to solve!

2009-09-08T19:29:00.005+01:00

Can you solve this mystery – who is Angus???

Sangomore
26th June 1885

Dear Sir

I should have written to you a long time ago but I was unwell for 6 weeks and since I got better I was kept so busy that I could not do it. I spoke to James Suth(erland) about the shop, he told me that he spoke to Alexander Gunn about it but he did not seem to be in favour of your return and said that if James was to throw up the shop that Richard (?) McKay Andrew (?) would have the best chance of.

I spoke to Robt Sutherland about what James said to me. Robt gave me a scroll that you would copy and send to Les (?) McIvor, Scourie you correct all errors in it yourself and not mention Robt name as he is very chief with McIvor and the Marquis of Stafford.

If you were here last week it was easy enough for Robt to speak to him about your case as he had him alone for about an hour in his own house. He had lecture from him in the school house. He is a nice kind looking man but as for his parliamentary power I cannot say much about it. Mouldy old shoes pays me better than politics – my father moves about yet he was last week in sight of Darin(?) Inv(?) My mother cleans the potatoes in the field.

Drummond the gamekeeper left at the term and they got an abstainer in his place. The weather was very course here since long. The people are going off to the fishery to all parts of Scotland.

I must remain at present
Your well wisher
Angus Mackay

PS Please send a newspaper or an old one of Chambers Journal when you get this.

Letter kindly sent in by Lynn Mackay, Inverness who has no idea who Angus Mackay is. Can anyone help? Want to read the original? HERE

A thought from Chris.
Could this family have had a son named Lewis and be the Les discussed above?
EVANDER MACIVER married MARY MACDONALD
[9/9/1811-10/1/1903] [c1843-24/1/1895]
Evander Maciver, Deputy Lt. of County of Sutherland, elder this parish, factor for 10 years on Tulloch Estate, Ross-shire, 50 years factor to 3 Dukes of Sutherland in Assynt, Durness, Eddrachillis and 1st and 2nd Dukes of Westminster, eldest son of Lewis Maciver, 8th of Gress, Stornoway, a merchant, and Catherine Robertson (DC), born Gress 1811, died Scourie House, Eddrachillis in 1903 is buried in Scourie Burial Ground, Eddrachillis (ED-G54).
He was married to Mary Macdonald for 56 years. She is the daughter of Donald Macdonald of Skeabost, Skye.

A Mystery Picture

2009-09-07T17:48:00.004+01:00

My grandfather, Roderick Hugh MacKay, came from Droman in the Kinlochbervie area of Sutherland. He left Glasgow in 1909 with $50 in his pocket and arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia with five others.

I have always assumed that the others came from the same area of Sutherland, but I am not sure. He was listed on the immigration papers as a farm labourer with a final destination of Halifax. As he was a British subject, he was a "preferred immigrant".

The story he told was that he was anticipating a job on a fishing boat in Halifax. However, during the crossing, the fishing boat sank and with it, his hope of a job. Once in Halifax, he was offered a train ticket to Fort William in Northwestern Ontario by the Salvation Army with a promise of a job in the bush camps. He and his fellow travelers accepted the offer.

Of the six of them, only he would remain in Canada. The others eventually returned to Scotland. Unfortunately, I don't recall him ever mentioning who is fellow immigrants were. I am assuming that this is the group, shown in the picture. My grandfather is the fellow standing in the middle. Does anyone recognize the others?

Ten years later he returned to Scotland and married Catherine Fraser (Frasers of Balchrick) and they returned to Fort William, Ontario. (ref EM0009)

(If you click on the photograph you will see it larger!.

Beth Stewart

Father's Day in Australia and New Zealand

2009-09-05T08:53:00.004+01:00

Sunday 6th September is Father's Day in Australia and New Zealand. Our talented team of card makers have a lovely selection ready for you to send.

You can either visit our Gallery, choose a card and save it to your own computer to attach as an email or you can go to our family safe e-card site and send it from there.

The girls in the Touch of Class team all descend from Sutherland families as did so many talented people.
Regular Daily News is back on Monday.
Enjoy
Chris

From Muie, Rogart to Ontario

2009-09-04T17:03:00.006+01:00

Photograph of the old Macleod croft house, Muie, Rogart.

Donald Macleod (1766-1838) and his wife Ann Murray lived at Muie, Rogart. Ann was born in Rogart, daughter of Robert Murray and Janet Reid of Langwell, Rogart. She and Donald had at least eight children all born at Muie. In 1834 Donald Macleod, Muie, paid one shilling to the Duke of Sutherland’s statue fund. Donald was said to be a merchant and a crofter. He died in 1838. His widow Ann was then the tenant at Muie.

Five of her sons emigrated to Toronto, Canada. We are very fortunate to be able to read some of the letters which crossed the Atlantic. I hope you will enjoy them. I find them fascinating.

Many thanks to Judi McLeod and her husband in Canada for sharing them with us.

Judi wrote: "Many years ago my husband's Aunt Annie transcribed some family letters kept by her father Robert McLeod (it seems they dropped the a when William came to Canada). The letters were often written by Peter. Some of the letters were forwarded from one brother to another and ended up in the hands of Robert MacLeod (3rd son of Donald). Annie submitted a photocopied group of letters to the Woodstock public library where I've had the opportunity of reading some of them. The originals are still in the family".

This first letter was written by Ann Murray, widow, in Muie to her eldest son William in Canada dated 1839. His brother Peter added to the letter. Later Peter would also emigrate to Ontario. The mother also mentions her son Robert who was working in England.

(To Wm. McLeod in Canada)
Muie April 3rd 1839

My Dear Son,

Having the opportunity of writing you by the Bearer Mr. William Macleod; (of Woodstock) we write you these lines to inform you that we all enjoy good health at present (for which we have great reason to thank the Almighty for his mercies towards us at all times) hoping and sincerely wishing that this may find you the same - We are very happy to hear that you are now got married; especially when you are married to a woman of good character and of a decent family; we wish you much joy; it is a very surprising thing that you are so forgetful in writing to us, we received only one letter since you went away. You might take to consideration that nothing could give us more pleasure than to hear from you at any time, but especially in times of war - and you have no excuse when the bearer was coming from your house to ours.

Dear William you will be anxious to hear about the state of this country and the circumstance of our family - the country is much worse than when you went away - there had been two very bad years - 37 -38 but the last year has been a little more favourable; there is no work at all in the country now that signifies;- the price of meal is only about ,1"4/ (this could be £1.4 shillings) although there was no crops in the highlands, there was ordinary crops in the low countries, which succoured the highlands and islands.

Robert went to England since three years & three months and never came home since, he came in December last to Glasgow and is working on Rail Roads between Glasgow and Paisley, he was to came home in the beginning of January but about the time that he was intending to came home he took the small pox and was confined for two or three weeks; after he got better he was afraid to venture to come home, owing to the severe weather, and his being so exposed to the cold, which you know by experience,- although he did not come home himself , he was as mindful of his Parents and helping them as well as although he were at home , he regretted much that he did - he and we are deprived of that pleasure; we were always looking for an answer from you for the letter we wrote you concerning your Dear Father's Death & never received one which leaves us doubtful that you did not receive our letter:

John is presently with Mr. McGillivray and had been with him the most of the time since you went away, Peter has had been at home the most of the time, he goes in winter sometimes to school, and some other times to teaches some shepherd's children - George is bound as a prentice, he is learning to be a Tailor with Angus Sutherland Brora, there are two years of his prenticeship past and there are other two years to pass (Angus Suthd's wife is always poorly Mary and Sandy are always at home, Sandy is now a stout boy, he is taller than Peter was when you went away - the children are all consented for to go where you are (if Robt will) and if you were once to have peace I would be willing to go along with them if you would advise us, as they are all fit for working now, and although they would get work here they would get very little for it besides what I hear they would get there; John and Peter will soon go whatever the rest may.

Dear William you will make no delaying in writing us, when this comes to your hand, we trust and inform us minutely concerning your circumstance and state of health and let us know if you thought that we should go there, we understand that those who are there, do not like to counsel any to go as the distance is so long, and people so liable to accidence , however, if you are well pleased there yourself and doing well and if you would have a thought that we would do well like-wise, you may have an eye out for a good lot to us, for it is most likely we will be preparing whenever we will hear, from you .

Tell cousin John McLeod that his mother is living yet but very frail now. Mary and her husband are in health, the husband, Viz. James Gune is very dutiful to his aged mother in law , but he has in these bad years; they wish to be kindly remembered to John & family (to John Murray) and also to you; Mary requests John to take a little of her state in these bad times to consideration and trusts, if he is as well of as she hears, that he will send them some money to help them; as they are some short in two or three rents now; Alex Douglas and family are quite well presently, they send their kind respect. to you and Helen (I am speaking to Helen as well as to you although I do not mention you separately as you are not henceforth twain, but one flesh).

Your uncle Robert and family are quite well, Anne regrets much that she was not there to be at your wedding, they wish to be remembered to you in the kindest manner, Thomas Armstrong is sending his - - and compliments to Helen and wishes to tell her that Donald McKay and family at Midpeny are in health, the rest of the friends and neighbours are in good health, as far as known by me, I am sorry that my paper is filled and cannot mention dear Friends and acquaintances there but you will give them all our warmest respects. Your Brother and sister join me in sending God’s blessings and ours to you Dear William & Helen and to all enquiring Friends and neighbours
I am your affectionate Mother while widow Donald McLeod

Dear Brother, being my mother's clerk I have taken this opportunity of writing you a few lines to inform you that I am intending to go to see you next year season whatever the rest of the family may do, John and myself, are going to work where Robert is this season and then I will go away next year to your country, you would be anxious to hear some new but I have no time to inform you of many news as the bearer is sitting waiting me, deaths this year here about were Angus McKay Belarish and, his son Kenneth and the catchiser. Marriages - Margaret McKenzie Muie and Sandy Sutherland Incheap so no more at present I am your affectionate Brother

Peter McLeod

More letters from this family next week.

Archibald Gunn, artist

2009-09-03T14:49:00.002+01:00

A few weeks back there was discussion on our mailing list regarding Archibald Gunn, painter. This is a very good descriptive newspaper item:

Golspie 26th January 1849

A visit to Mr A. Gunn’s Studio

"Mr Archibald Gunn, a native of this village, who at an early period of his life, and before he had received any instructions, had recommended himself to the notice of the late Duchess-Countess of Sutherland, by some drawings which he had executed, has, during a sojourn of several years in England, particularly in London, under the kind patronage of the Sutherland family and of the Earl of Clare, become an artist of no inconsiderable note. Having been admitted a student of the Royal Academy, he has profited by the instructions he received there; and we may state that no one is admitted a student until he has given sufficient evidence of a decided turn for drawing and painting. Mr Gunn, while on a visit to his friends in this place last summer, was indeed to remain for some time, by the prospect given him of obtaining employment as a portrait painter. Not a few of his paintings have come under our notice, and, although quite ignorant of the technicalities of the art, we may be permitted to say that the fidelity of the likenesses is most striking, while the beauty, expression, and real-life look imparted by the colouring appear to be unsurpassable.

The artist amuses himself occasionally by taking sketches of characters. In two or three which we have seen, particularly those of David Spankie and Johnny Noe, he has been eminently successful, and we should not wonder to hear of his grouping a number of these in a painting worthy of the genius of a Wilkie.

Mr Gunn, we understand, intends to migrate southward in a short time, so we would counsel parties who so much admire their own good looks as to wish to preserve a memorial of them before hoary hairs, wrinkles, etc., the concomitants of advancing years, have marred their beauty, to grant a few sittings to this artist, assuring them that they will have no cause to suppose that the painting does not faithfully represent the original. Those, on the other hand, who, like ourselves, consider it a penance to be under the necessity of beholding their plain faces even in a mirror for the purpose of making the most of their bad looks, we would advise to possess themselves of a likeness taken by Mr Gunn of some dear relative of friend whose character they revere, or to whom they may be bound by the ties of affection.

Mr Gunn’s unassuming modesty and gentlemanly manners, independent of his artistical skill, have secured for him the esteem and good will of all parties who enjoy his acquaintance; and when he leaves his native place for a quarter in which he is more likely to advance his interest, he will carry with him the good wishes of this community, for his success in his profession and happiness in life." John O’Groat’s Journal Feb 1850

Many thanks to Sheila Fraser for sending this in to us.

Who Is This?

2009-09-02T17:31:00.002+01:00

My second cousin once or twice removed, Angus Mackay, in Scourie sent me this impressive photo last week for identification. It was part of a collection from the Fleming house in Fanagmore and we have eliminated all the known Fleming men on the grounds of age or because we already have photos of them. There is no name or date on the back of this one only that it was taken by Johnston photographers in Wick.

The young man is very smart, handsome and pleased with himself as well he might and I am wondering if he was the son of one of the two married daughters of the household ie Mary Fleming married to Duncan Corbett or Betsy Fleming married to James Pope. Some that might fit the bill are George Corbett b 1852 or John born 1856 also John Mackay Pope b 1857.

The clothes are similar to those in other photos around 1885 to 1895 and he looks as if he might be setting off on some venture eg to the south or abroad and sent back a photo so he would not be forgotten. I wondered if any of the Corbetts and Popes on countysutherland have old photos which might suggest a name for him?

Regards Marion, Renfrewshire

Donald Munro

2009-09-01T17:53:00.004+01:00

"I will venture to say that in the whole of this island there exists not a more intelligent population connected with the labouring and industrial interests, than the population of the County of Sutherland." Speech in Parliament by the Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone, Prime Minister of Great Britain in Victorian times.

Time to celebrate some of these distinguished Sutherlanders.

"Donald Munro was born at Backies, Golspie, on 6th November 1846 and was educated at the local school. In 1865 he received an appointment in connection with the Staffordshire Collieries of the late Mr Thomas Bantock, J.P. (a distinguised Sutherlander), and he ultimately became general manager of the great Wyrley Collieries. He also held a number of public offices in the district. After about eighteen years' service he reitred in 1884 from the management, and in the following year took charge of the collieries and works of the Chesterfield Coal and Iron Co., North Staffordshire. Afterwards Mr Munro started business in Manchester as a Civil and Mining Engineer, and has been very successful. He is the pioneer of an important mining enterprise in the North of Ireland. In 1872 he married Mary, daughter of the late Mr. Thomas Greensill, by who he has two daughters." (Sutherland and the Reay Country, 1897)

Does anyone know to which family in Backies Donald was born?

Update

2009-09-01T11:05:00.003+01:00

Have posted a new entry in our Education in Sutherland spot. Would love more information. Please take a look.

Letter from Laid

2009-08-31T15:45:00.003+01:00

Here is another letter sent in by Lynn Mackay, Inverness.

This one is written in lovely handwriting and has last well through the years. We have not transcribed it. You can read the full letter HERE.

Mrs Mina Morrison wrote this is 1890 from her home in Laid, Durness to a cousin.

Thank you Lynn for sharing.

Sutherland Estate Papers

2009-08-30T10:53:00.004+01:00

Is it worthwhile plodding through the Sutherland Estate papers in the National Library of Scotland? A frequently asked question.

This family is a good example of just how much information you can dig out from these old records.

Alexander Bain (c1822-5/5/1908) and Catherine Ross (6/01/1830-22/04/1919).

Alexander is the son of William Bain and Janet Murray.
Catherine was born in Rogart, daughter of Donald Ross and Christina Mackay.
Alexander Bain claimed on the 1881 census that he was born in Invergordon, Ross & Cromarty. However in a document found in the Sutherland Estate records he appears to claim that he was born in Dornoch! Yet again the IGI shows his birth taking place in Ross-shire.

Alexander was recorded on the 1841 census as a 15 year old living in the home of George Mackenzie and Marion Murray, at Corrie, Rogart. Marion was his aunt. As Marion and George had no children it seems the croft passed to Alexander.

Alexander and Catherine married in Rogart on 25 November 1852.

“Alexander Bain was brought up by one of uncles, George Mackenzie and moved in 1833 to Corrie Achvrael in parish of Rogart. In 1861 Bain had tried to get his name in the rental book- see declaration by uncle: "I hereby acknowledge declare and testify that my Nephew Alexander Bain whom I brought up and reared from his infancy and who has lived with me constantly up to this time has always year by year for the last fourteen years paid out of his own money the rent due to his Grace... for the lot I hold numbered in the rental book 18 Achvrael and also that he has cultivated and laboured the said lot at his own expenses and has improved and brought into cultivation seven acres formerly moor land and lastly that he has during the whole time supported me by his earnings and has behaved with duty and affection" Alexander paid rents from 1847 amounting to £47. Wish is that he should be entered in the Rental Book in his place "having no children of my own or near relation to look after me in my old age being now 71 years old". Signed George Mackenzie, witnessed Angus Mackenzie and William Hamilton”

Following complaints by neighbours as to trespassing of his cattle on their common pasture, in 1870 estate decided to remove him. Alexander then petitioned the Duke of Sutherland:
"To your Grace my Lord necessity compels me to write your Grace and inform you of my circumstances at the present time as being 40 years on the Sutherland estate and in doing my best to the estate on which I was brought up as Subject to your Grace as proprietor in the first place I was brought up and reared by one of my uncles who had no family or children of his own he reared me as a child of his oun from the age of four years until I came to man hood and on being removed from the parish of Dornoch in the year 1833 to the parish of Rogart where we remained and lived quite inoffensive when my uncle George Mackenzie got settlement in this lot there was very little arable land on to it but when I came to maturity I began to improve and I improved seven acres formerly moor land at my own labour and expense with the hopes of Getting some benefit of my labour along with that I Paid the rents for this lot from 1847 till 1866"

Alexander got his neighbours to provide a certificate of his good behaviour:
"We the undersigned have been intimately acquainted with the nearer Alexr Bain residing at Corry of Achvrael for many years some of us for more than thirty years and we always found him a quite obliging and honest Neighbour" [signed by 16 names] "We also add to this that we do not wish the said Alexander Bain to be removed as we see it impossible for him with his weak and throng family"
The estate management decided to allow him to remain for a while, but for how long? (extracts from NLS Acc10225/88).

In 1881 Alexander, a tenant of 8 acres was at Achvrail, Rogart with wife Catherine and their children and a 3 year old nephew Andrew Bain, who was born in Rogart.

In January 1908 a Rogart and Lairg List of Poor tenants whose circumstances would justify their arrears of Rent being cancelled by Ground Officer R B Sangster, Rovie included:
“Alex. Bain 18 Achvreal (Corry) "This worthy man is over 90 years old and is now very frail. He used to be a diligent weaver of home spun tweeds but Cannot now weave as his sight has failed. Some three years ago he lost nearly all his stock of sheep in one season through 'rot'. He never has more than one rent in arrear but it is becoming increasingly hard for him to gather it. He is one of the very few in the parish who have habitually made perfect work in sodding their peat banks. He is one rent in arrears, £5 8/- which might be wholly cancelled."

Alexander, a crofter, died in May 1908. Catherine died a widow at Corry Achvrail, Rogart in 1919.
They had the following children:
GEORGE BAIN born 24th December 1853 Corry, Rogart
CHRISTINA BAIN born 17th August 1855 Corrie of Rogart died 10th February 1942 West Clyne – single] - Christina’s death was reported in the Northern Times on 19th February – funeral to Clyne New cemetery on Thursday 12th (NT)
JANET BAIN born 9th September 1857 Rogart
ANN BAIN born 30th June 1859 Rogart
WILLIAM BAIN born 16th July 1861 Rogart
DONALD BAIN (Danny) born 3rd October 1864 Rogart [married Mary Fraser] - see photograph in following reference
ROBERT BAIN born 23rd August 1865 Rogart
JOHN BAIN born 21st September 1867 Rogart [married Marion Mackay] - see photograph in following reference
CHARLES BAIN born 10th November 1869 Corrie of Rogart [died 29 July 1948 Edinburgh] [married Elizabeth Janet John ]
ALEXANDER BAIN born 21st November 1871 Rogart [married Williamina Miller - see photograph in following reference]
ELIZABETH BAIN (Betsie) 13th September 1873 Corry Achvrail, Rogart

Many thanks to Jean Sutherland, Elgin, for supplying the photographs of this family. Jean was born in Rogart.

Bain Family Photographs

2009-08-30T10:48:00.010+01:00

Golspie Heritage News

2009-08-29T17:30:00.009+01:00

Golspie Heritage Society Exhibition 2009

Hanging out the washing to announce the opening of Golspie Heritage annual exhibition. Isn't that a neat idea?

Shirley has just completed sorting out the photographs from the recent exhibition. They are not to be missed. Many super photographs of old items. Allow yourself time to meander through the pics. They are really worth a visit.

I love the old records with their Cunningham packs. Remember old 78 records? Boy that ages me. You can view them HERE.

Congratulation Golspie for a wonderful show and thanks Shirley for all the great photographs.

Take time to look at Golspie Heritage website also. Lots and lots of interesting articles on there.

Letter to a cousin 1853

2009-08-28T18:05:00.006+01:00

Gobernuisgach, Strathmore

Dec 26th 1853

Dear Sir

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter on the 23rd instant, have nothing constructive to detail that may amuse you, only that all acquaintance in this quarter are well, your mother and my father & family are in health, likewise your aunt and Rob are quite well, (Robert "Rob" Campbell alias MacRob and Mary Ann "Marion" Morrison) they hear regular from their sons, Dave and Rob, the former is a Shoemaker in Wick and the latter is in the ?Armey? as you are aware, I suppose he is well off, he is engaged as an Officer’s Servant since 2 years, and I think he still continues with the same master he was last year, the whole of the winter along with him in Fifeshire, I suppose he is there this winter too, he was first speaking off meeting his father and mother, sometime through the winter but I think he now abandoned the thought when he is not coming. As for John it is not known where he is, he never wrote since he went away about 4 years ago but they were hearing about him as he was in Caithness till last year. The youngest of them is at home – As I was idle at home I engaged with the man that is Forester and residing in the cottage here for teaching his children through the winter, I might pay merely for my ……

Page 2……board and washing as I felt the utmost displeasure in wandering idly about at home, not merely the loss it had occasioned but the many exposures I would be liable to, in deviating from the right way, for I think the old proverb is true in saying “That an idle man tempts the devil” er I think if to go somewhere wherever providence may cast my lot I would be extremely willing to go to Australia if I could, but unless I could get to some employment for the ensuing season, I could not manage it even though there would be free passage, which I suppose there is however long may it continue – I thought that your pay was far better for surveying, I think ?10d? per week is scarce enough your board and washing, considering the high price for provisions. I am surprised how could you manage to do ?on? such pay, travelling from place to place – Caithness is among the poorest places in Scotland for day’s wages and I would get ?...? per week working in a quarry – and my board and washing would not cost one half the sum it would cost you there, but after all I would be willing to get ?...? if no better work will turn out, but I think they are the worst paid in Scotland considering what they have to do, if they would remain in the same place, I would not think it so bad ______......

Page 3…… I cannot tell you of what department, that those were working ?hu..? of as they only needed about a week in our place, and I think they were never going of the road, but certainly they must have been better payed than you, as they were giving about 8? Per week ?...? their board and – I lost a very good ?stature? last summer by living from home, an order came from the Marquis of Stafford to raise a number of men from the county, so much were to be raised from each parish, for being what they call them cuttermen!! I suppose they were engaged for preventing smuggling, a few enlisted from our place and the Grandofficer expected my name among the number, but they were too late in applying, by the Groundofficer’s fault, and what was required was raised from Assynt but if I had been home I would immediately apply to Mr A…. and I would be sure of getting away, as did the Assynt men, they have about £50 per year between travelling expenses and payment. I cannot describe you nothing of any import that may amuse you, only Eric and family are well, the people are doing nothing, there is no kind of war, it going au wi the place. The few that went to Australia are sending very good……

Page 4……accounts and advising all that can go to go. Alan Mather John Mather is se…. has about £90, bed board and washing, he is engaged as manager of shop, he says that a person working as a ……. Get about …..per day – and that he could easily board himself for about £1 – 5 per week and now it’s much cheaper – I hope you will write soon, you can write to the house as I will get it as soon as I will get it any other way as there are no posts running this way about this time of the year
I remain
Dear Sir
Yours truly
Hector Mackay

The above letter has been transcribed from the hand written original by Lynn Mackay, Inverness, Scotland who descends from Hector's family. Hector was born 1828 in Durness, son of Charles Mackay, pensioner of 93rd Regiment, and Hectorina (Heckie) Morrison.

Hector has written about how he would like to go to Australia. He did get there, I haven't a clue when he went or what he did when he was out there but he died there in Sydney on April 13th 1895. He is commemorated on his parents' gravestone in Balnakeil, Durness. I would love to know more about his life in Australia. Has anyone any information?
Lynn Mackay

If you would like to view the handwritten letter you can do so HERE.

PS A very interesting observation - although Hector was obviously educated and wrote beautifully his sister Mary, who stayed in Durness, signed their father's death certificate with her x mark. Boys educated, girls not. An interesting debate could follow! If anyone wishes to comment on this aspect please use our mailing list with the subject line Male/Female.
Another letter from Lynn will appear on Monday next week.
Chris

The Grave Marker

2009-08-27T20:35:00.008+01:00

James Mackay 1885-1925

When I started my family research I had the dates of death of several members of my grandfathers family. One of them was his brother James. He died in Australia in 1925. That was all the information I had. I asked my aunt who vaguely remembered stories about him but she could tell me very little.

Like all family historians I needed to fill in the gaps. With so little information on James it did seem an impossible task.

The Western Australian Genealogy Society searched indexes for any possible matches with James's date of death and came up with one - Katanning District Wagin. James Mackay, born 1885 to Hugh and Annie Mackay, Aird Skerray, Tongue. I cannot thank them enough for this.

James went to Australia in 1910 along with a Charles Nicholson from Turriff, Aberdeenshire. Shipping records show that they arrived in Albany, Western Australia on 22nd November 1910 onboard the "Geelong". James is listed as a farmer, Charles a policeman.

They both settled in a township called Dumbleyung. I love the name Dumbleyung – “Dumbleyung's name is of Aboriginal origin, coming from "Dambeling" which possibly means "large lake or inland sea". The lake nearby was discovered and named Dambeling Lake by explorers Landor and Lefroy in 1843, and the current spelling was used by surveyors in the 1860s and 1870s. Pastoralists and sandalwood cutters moved into the area, initially settling at Nippering, north of Lake Dumbleyung and 10 kilometres (6 mi) west of the present town. However, in 1907, Dumbleyung was gazetted as a townsite and became the terminus of a railway from Wagin. By 1915, Dumbleyung had grown to become the major rural service town in the region”. (Wikipedia) It was on Lake Dumbleyung that Donald Campbell broke the world water speed record in 1964.

I then sent to Australia for James’s death certificate but the names of parents was incorrect - but the date was correct. It gave me the name of the town so I wrote to the local council and a lovely lady called Alex sent me information about James's life in Dumbleyung. There was a book written locally which contained several references to James. The person who registered the death was his business partner Charles Nicholson. James had died suddenly at Charles's house. He was single and only 40 years of age. Alex was absolutely certain that despite the wrong parents names on the certificate this was my great uncle James. I was delighted to be able to read so much about him. Only downside was that she couldn't find any photos of him which was a great pity as I haven't been able to identify him in any of the old family photos I have although I am sure he should be there.

James enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in 1916 along with his friend Charles Nicholson. However according to his records he was admitted to hospital several times due to kidney problems and in 1918 was invalided out of active service. He went back to Dumbleyung. A local book tells that both James and Charles were injured in the war.

One of the most poignant moments was when I was sent photos of James's grave. There was no headstone - just his plot number. The photos along with information about James was kindly sent to me by a distant cousin on my Caithness side. She lived a couple of hours from Dumbleyung and very kindly made the trip especially to see what she could find She spoke to my contact at the local council and took the photos for me. A photograph had been taken on the day of the burial and sent home to his mother Annie. It shows the spot covered in wreaths and flowers. Annie lost four of her sons before she herself died in 1939. Her husband Hugh died in 1909.

James was not entitled to be buried in a war grave but it was possible that he may be entitled to an Official Office of Australian War Graves Bronze Plaque if his death met certain criteria. This is my next step in the hope that some sort of plaque may be erected on his grave. I have applied to the appropriate office and will now have to wait and see. In the meantime James is commemorated on his parents’ gravestone in Skerray, Tongue.

Thanks for reading this.
Fiona Mackay, Aberdeen, Scotland
(ref EM001)

6th November 2009 UPDATE

Fiona has now heard from the Australian War Graves office that a Bronze Plaque will be erected on James's grave. Fiona is thrilled and wishes to thank all those who helped. Without the help of folk over in Australia which started with the Western Genealogy Society this wouldn't be happening. As soon as the plaque is ready we will let you know.

Embro, Ontario cemetery, August 2009

2009-08-26T21:51:00.010+01:00

Thought you would like to see these pictures taken at Decoration Day in Embro, Ontario yesterday. It was amazing to see all the Murray graves decorated throughout the cemetery. Each stone had a white banner with blue stripes and a number on the stone, some yellow and others red. Every tombstone had the same arrangement with the grasses, oats, goldenrod, wild flower, cedar, green leaves and a thistle in the centre tied with a yellow ribbon.

The contents of each arrangement would have come off the farm land in the area of the cemetery.

Thanks to Jean Hammond, Ontario, for taking these photographs.

You can see and read much more about Embro Cemetery HERE.
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Ontario Get Together

2009-08-26T21:30:00.010+01:00

Attached is a picture of fourteen descendants of Elizabeth Anderson (1771-1869) and Finlay McDonald (1774-1843) who meet each year for lunch.

Elizabeth and Finlay emigrated in 1830 from Lairg to East Nissouri Township, now Zorra Township, in Oxford County. Finlay's parents were Angus McDonald born circa 1745 and Ann Ross born circa 1750.

We continue to search for the parents of Elizabeth Anderson.

Jean Hammond, London, Canada

Read more about Elizabeth Anderson and Finlay Macdonald HERE.
The above photograph includes Jean Hammond, Florence Paterson, Shirley MacArthur Garner, members of this site and Eleanor Haggerty, a recent member. I feel sure that Florence will not mind me telling you that she is now 91 years of age and looking great. Florence is sitting middle row extreme right as you look at the pic. The lady sitting with the pretty pink top on is Florence's sister and believe it or not this lovely lady is now 97. Must be something in the old Sutherland air!! You do us proud ladies.

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Kirkton, Golspie

2009-08-11T20:19:00.005+01:00

Trying to go through the many folders of bits in my computer and found this great photograph of the old grave markers at Kirkton, Golspie.

This is a very historic site and at the time I was photographing all the burial grounds in Sutherland this one appeared to be private. Thanks to Shirley in Golspie we now have a pic.

Here is what Shirley wrote:

The large stone in the wall states the following: "In hoc dirute coemeterio Sutherlandiae plurimorum comitum cinerea conquiescunt" which may, I am informed, mean "In this ruined churchyard rest the ashes of very many of the Lords (Earls) of Sutherland". I am told that this stone was a later addition by the Duchess/ Countess sometime in the 1830's. Dornoch Cathedral, I think, has 16 earls buried there and there are at least 2 in Hollyrood, Edinburgh, so I don't know which Earls

they might be. Perhaps, someone can enlighten us as I am definitely no expert.

The second photo shows some of the stones which were recently uncovered again by a man staying at the farm. Some of the markings on the stones are quite clear and as stated in Cowper's "Sutherland Monumental Inscriptions" ie. "This burial place belongs to John Sutherland 1731" and "John Sutherland 1749" and "William Gunn".

I will try to add some further information to this article in due course.
Chris

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Education update

2009-07-27T21:26:00.002+01:00

Education in Sutherland - have tonight updated this page with a new photograph from Golspie School plus for those with interests in Golspie a link to lots more Golspie School photographs.
Thanks lots to Shirley Sutherland for this.

Still lots of room in our Education pages for lots more information and photographs. Please feel free to send as much as you would like.

New project starting next week. An exciting one and possibly the largest we have ever undertaken. Watch this space.

New members and visitors always welcome.

Chris

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Another Homecoming

2009-07-11T10:10:00.003+01:00

John Mackenzie from Sutherland to Victoria, Australia 1855.

John and his family went on to be very respected members of the community of Chua in Victoria.

Read more HERE

Many thanks to Winifred York, Cairns, Australia for the information. It is always good to hear of families who left their home and were successful in their new homes.

Another Homecoming

2009-06-24T10:54:00.003+01:00

Dolina Mackay from Armadale, Farr to the U.S.A. submitted by Lucy M. Abbott.

Quite an amazing lady was Dolina. True Highland spirit.

Thank you Lucy for sending it in.

Read her story HERE.

Update on Crofting

2009-06-18T22:49:00.003+01:00

Today I have added a page to Farr Parish on the website. John and Linda at Brawl, Farr, are crofting in a lovely old fashioned way. I feel sure they will do well there and wish them lots of luck.

Read more HERE.

Follow up your reading by visiting the pages created by our own members talking about their memories of Life on the Croft.

Enjoy
Chris

Chris notes 15th June 2009

2009-06-15T09:37:00.007+01:00

We now have our first three family entries on the new HOMECOMING section.
If you wish to be included please get in touch soon. See HERE for more info on this.

I have been taking a long hard look at the website and the number of visitors each section attracts. The number of visitors to the site is amazing but there are a couple of spots which do not generate any interest at all and I am considering removing those in the near future. Keeping an eye on those at present and if no interest in the next week or so they will be removed.

Our mailing list - last week I had to go in and remove over 30 members who had 'bounced'' their way out of membership! If you are a member of any mailing list you should check your membership every month. Make sure you are not bouncing. Make sure your mailbox on your own computer is not so full that no more messages can come in. This is the main reason for bouncing mail.

In My Father's Words - last week I told you that I had ordered the CD, it arrived and it is absolutely great. Davie writes beautiful songs and his son Keith has an amazing voice. They do great justice to each other. As a long standing Country Music fan it is a delight to hear 'real' country type songs sung with the backing of steel guitar, etc. So much Country Music today no longer sounds country to me but this does. Keith, you have a new fan, big time. Love the way the lyrics are all included in the cover fold out. Thanks lots. The best CD I have bought for a long, long time. If anyone wonders what I am talking about see my earlier post HERE.

Think that is it for today.
Chris

HOMECOMING

2009-06-10T21:34:00.006+01:00

As many of you may be aware this is the year when Scotland is celebrating 'HOMECOMING'.
This whole venture is designed to bring those with Scottish roots home. As much as we would love to welcome all our members 'home' we know that is impractical.

However, here on County Sutherland we are taking this a step further and for the next few weeks we will be holding a 'Virtual Homecoming'.

This idea came from Shirley, Golspie Heritage, and I am backing her all the way. I think it is a great idea.

Here is the plan.

You write up to one standard size page about your ancestors who left Sutherland for other parts of the world and we will published it on www.countysutherland.co.uk for everyone to read. A true homecoming for all those Sutherlanders who went to the new worlds of Canada, America, Australia, New Zealand and many to South Africa. The pioneers, the later emigrants, everyone who left.

For those whose roots are in Golspie Shirley will also display your stories in Golspie during the Golspie Heritage Society two weeks in August.

The story could include:

Name - birth, death, marriage

When and how they left Sutherland

Who they left behind

Where they went and what they did there

What descendants are still out there

Submitted by

This should attract good interest from local people who may hold the key to your 'brick walls'! At present our website is receiving a huge number of hits every week. Someone may hold that key.

Photographs either taken in Sutherland or in their new home are most welcome. Photographs can be of either people or places, houses or farms. Please send your stories direct to Chris as soon as possible. Email link on left.

Nurse Isobel Houston, Tongue

2009-06-09T08:07:00.003+01:00

This is a photo (not very good) of me with my godmother Nurse Isobel Houston on the day of my christening on the 6th Sept 1958, the photo was taken outside my home in Blandy, Tongue the cottage I was born in.

I was always told that I was the first baby to be delivered by Nurse Isobel Houston who was new to the village and she was asked to be my godmother and I was called after her……although when my father registered my birth he spelt my name with an “a” and she was an “o”.

The Minister of Tongue at the time was Revd. Douglas F. Baxter MA.

I was wondering if anyone could tell me when Nurse Houston died, I know she had a home in Talmine, Melness; she retired before 1978 as she came out of retirement to attend to my mother when she died in 1978. I visited Nurse Houston when I was home in 1986 unfortunately my camera was stolen and I lost all my photos.

Isabel Griggs, Australia
email me

Tillie Lamps

2009-06-08T19:19:00.004+01:00

I went to see a crofter up behind Bonar Bridge and he had a selection of lamps which were all used on the croft. The unfortunate thing is he did not have a Tillie lamp for lighting, but he did have a Tillie lamp that was used for heat.

I have never seen a lamp like this before but I took pictures of it as it was that unusual. It is exactly the same as a Tillie lamp for light apart from the fact that it has a bigger mantle and a large reflective disc on the rear of it which was used to reflect the heat out. The rear of the picture shows where the lamp was pumped up for pressure and it has a small clip on the rear where it could be hung up, although I am not very sure how safe this would be.

The other pictures show a couple of small lamps that would have been used in the house and a lantern that would have been used for going outside to the byre or barn.

Hector Macrae
Bonar Bridge

Updates 8th June 2009

2009-06-08T07:38:00.009+01:00

This beautiful photograph of Drumbeg, Assynt, was taken by member Marion Macleod.

TONGUE - Mary Young wrote to tell us that Calum Davidson, renowned photographer, has been in Tongue. His photographs are amazing. Stunning photograph. You can view them HERE. I love the view through the window of Tongue church. Wish I could handle a camera the way he does!

See his Coldbackie, Tongue, pics HERE.

He also has a small album named A Few Days in Brora HERE.

ASSYNT photographs - we have had to open a new album as the original getting pretty packed! Our new ASSYNT LATEST is up with pics from Marian Macleod. Thanks Marian.

Have added a small trade directory for 1825 to GOLSPIE pages. Thanks Judy Meibusch.

Have added a link to LAIRG PEOPLE 1812 on our Lairg pages. You can either read it on line or download to your own computer.

In our EDUCATION section:
New head teacher for Golspie
Badcall Inchard school
Lairg school
Oldshore school
Bettyhill school
Tongue school

The new items are all on the opening page.

In My Father's Words

2009-06-07T17:59:00.002+01:00

One of our members Davie Macleod writes music. He is very proud to announce this CD recorded by his son Keith. The songs were written by Davie.

Two of the songs were written in Sutherland - Crazy Things in Dornoch and Heather's Tears is a recall of Clashnessie, Assynt.

While reading about the album I noted one of the reports stated:
"Excellent song writing, terrific singer, love the steel guitar - the best album I have bought in ages - real country music the way I like it - it proves that Scotland has some great talent in the country music scene".

I have just ordered the CD and will add my review in due course.

See it HERE.

Chris

Boy in Clashnessie, Assynt

2009-06-07T17:41:00.003+01:00

My own connection to Sutherland-shire is on my paternal side of MacLeod from Clashnessie.

My grand father being Angus Macleod married to Jessie MacRae (who's brother James was the father of Duncan MacRae).

Angus's father was Norman and was married to Marion "meran" Mackenzie whilst Jessie's parents were John MacRae of Culkein, Stoer and he was married to Annabel "Barabel" Mackenzie of Achnacarnin, Stoer.

I have attached a picture of my parents, myself as a baby and an uncle and neighbour- however there is a young boy in shorts I would love to know who he is if anyone can recognise him. The photo would have been taken in summer 1954 if I am the baby and taken in Clashnessie.

Would be great if anyone could identify him.

Thanks
Davie Macleod
email

Balmoral Church, Truro, Nova Scotia

2009-06-07T15:51:00.008+01:00

Beth Johnston of Truro, Nova Scotia has just purchased an historic 3,300 sq. ft. Presbyterian kirk built in 1872 by Scottish settlers from Sutherland, who immigrated to Nova Scotia in 1821. The church was the focal point of the community for 130 years, before closing in 2002. With proceeds from various fundraisers, etc. (she hopes to raise $50,000) she plans on restoring the church and upgrading it this summer, to re-open in 2010 as a Welcome Centre, or Gathering Place for locals and tourists alike. It will be available to rent out for weddings, funerals, concerts, theatre, art gallery, etc.

She’ll also have information on the history of the Sutherland clans that came in 1821. They came across “the pond” on board The Ossian, a 300-ton brig that sailed on June 14th from Leith to Cromarty, then landing in Pictou in Sept. 1821. Adjacent to the church is the cemetery containing the graves of many of these first settlers. They came as a group, being neighbours in the area of Clyne. (Surnames: Sutherland, Murray, McLeod, Hayman, McKay, Baillie, McDonald, Morrison, Hingley, Hyslop, McKeen, Henderson, Shearer, Studivan, Harris, Drysdale, Nelson, Murdock.)

If there is anyone with ancestors that immigrated to The Falls, Nova Scotia that might be interested in coming to our official opening of the new Balmoral Kirk (it’s located on Balmoral Rd., so we renamed it) next May 2010, we would be pleased to welcome them. Lots of things to see and do in Nova Scotia in the summer, so they can check out our official Nova Scotia Tourism website for details on where to stay and what to do. If you could post something on your website about the event, they can EMAIL BETH for further information. We’re planning a weekend of festivities honouring the first settlers and hope to welcome some Sutherland clans to the ceilidh.

Thank you

Dee Appleby

(photo credit: Jinx MacGillivary, 2009)

What's New on County Sutherland?

2009-06-07T15:36:00.000+01:00

As I keep forgetting to tell you all important pieces of information regarding our website I thought it may be a good idea to start a blog to which we can add snippets of importance and of course news.

If you have anything of interest you wish to share here send to me for inclusion.

This lovely photograph, which looks like a painting, is of the pier at Culkein, Assynt, taken by Marian Macleod last month. Beautiful photograph Marian.

Chris
www.countysutherland.co.uk