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In Print

Newsprint – 1891

1891 January 28 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – COLLECTION IN AID OF BALFOUR HOSPITAL, KIRKWALL. – On Sunday evening a special sermon on “Christian Politics, or the Opium Trade of Great Britain Indefensible,” was preached in the Parish Church here, by the Rev. Alexander Spark, in the interests of the Balfour Hospital, Kirkwall, the special collection taken during divine service being devoted as a subscription towards the funds of the hospital.


1891 February 19 Aberdeen Free Press

TELEGRAPH EXTENSION TO ORKNEY. – Following up the recommendation of Lord Lothian’s Committee’s report, the Government telegraph engineers are busily engaged in surveying the different districts where the Commission have recommended the telegraph to be extended. It is expected that the cable will be laid this year to Westray, one of the most important islands of the northern group, where a large business is being done in fish. The other districts are Rousay, Eday, Birsay, Evie, and Dounby.


1891 February 25 Orkney Herald

THE LOCAL CENSUS ARRANGEMENTS. – The arrangements for taking the census throughout the county of Orkney, on the 5th of April next, have now been completed, the schedules and plans of divisions having been compiled, examined, and passed by the Sheriff-Substitute, and forwarded to the Registrar-General. The schedules for the receipt of the requited information will be left at every house throughout the county prior to Sunday, the 5th of April, and they will have to be filled up by, or on behalf of every individual tenant, occupant, or lodger, at midnight. On the following day they will be collected by persons appointed for that purpose, and after being checked by the Sheriff Clerk, and certified by the Sheriff, they will be forwarded to the Registrar-General for tabulation.

ROUSAY – PLOUGHING MATCH. – The annual ploughing match, under the auspices of the Rousay and Veira Agricultural Society, was held on Wednesday in a field kindly granted for the occasion by Mr Gibson, Langskaill. The weather being fine, the field during the day was visited by a large number of spectators, including a considerable number of the fair sex. Twenty ploughs entered for competition, including three champions. The ploughmen were liberally supplied with refreshments before and after their work was finished. The judges were – Messrs G. Scarth, Burgar; John Mowat, Schoolhall; and George Garson, Grugar, Evie, whose awards appear to have given general satisfaction. The following is the prize list: –

Champions. – 1 and medal, Charles Corsie, Howe, Egilshay; 2, Malcolm Leonard, Gripps; 3, William Learmonth, Faraclett.
Ordinary. – 1 and Highland Society’s medal, Alex. Learmonth, Faraclett; 2, William Louttit, Stennisgorn; 3, John Kirkness, Nears; 4, David Gibson, Langskaill; 5, James Robertson, Langskaill; 6, William Sabiston, Westness; 7, Alex. Craigie, Savisikaill; 8, John Russell, Brendale; 9, John Gibson, Quoys; 10, John Harrold, Avelshay; 11, James Inkster, Cogar; Youngest ploughman, William Louttit, Stennisgorn. Best feering, Malcolm Leonard, Gripps. Best finish, William Learmonth, Faraclett. Straightest ploughing, Charles Corsie. Best ploughed rig on field, Charles Corsie.
Grooming. – 1, Charles Johnston, Trumland; 2, James Craigie, Scockness; 3, John Cutt, Trumland; 4, John Gibson, Hurtiso.
Harness. – 1, John Cutt, Trumland; 2, James Robertson, Langskaill; 3, Charles Johnston, Trumland; 4, John Kirkness, Ness. Best set of harness on field, Charles Corsie.

A large number of special prizes were distributed according to the wishes of the donors. The medal presented by Mr William B. Firth, merchant, Finstown, having been won twice by Charles Corsie, it now becomes his own property. The Committee would take this opportunity of expressing their thanks to Mr Firth for the two medials he has given the society in succession, and to the merchants in Kirkwall and all others who so liberally aided the prize list. In the evening the judges, some members of the committee, and a number of friends were entertained to an excellent dinner by Mr and Mrs Gibson, Langskaill. The usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given and responded to, and an enjoyable evening was spent.


1891 March 4 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

A CORRECTION.

SIR, – In your issue of 25th inst., I observe an interesting article on “Shetland, Faroe, and Icelandic Ponies.” The article concludes with a lengthy extract, of some forty lines, stated to be a quotation from an “article” in the Popular Science Monthly for February.

Of the Popular Science Monthly I know, and wish to know nothing, the extract in question being my own composition, word for word, forming part of an article entitled “Shetland Ponies” which I contributed to the Cornhill Magazine for January last year. – I am, &c., – GEORGE M. McCRIE Rousay, 26th February 1891.

[At this time George Meikle McCrie was an unmarried 43-year-old from Edinburgh. Living at Curquoy, Sourin, on ‘private means,’ he was employed as the island’s Inspector of Poor.]


1891 March 25 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

PAROCHIAL BOARDS AND THE LEVYING OF SCHOOL RATES.

The following correspondence has been forwarded to us for publication: –

Curquoy, Rousay, 3rd March, 1891.

SIR, – I have the honour to solicit the favour of your counsel on the following point which lately arose in this pariah. This parish being assessed, the collection of School Rates falls upon the Parochial Board. For the financial year 1889-90 the Parochial Board, owing to the receipt of Probate Duties Grant, &c., found their coffers were full enough for the expected necessities of Relief and Management of the poor, and resolved, therefore, to levy no Poor Rate. No registration funds were needed. The School Board had notified, during previous June, a deficiency of £ – [left blank!]. Now, was it proper or legal, to levy in November 1889, for School Rate alone, seeing that the estimated deficiency of School Board is “to be added to and levied with next assessment for the poor, when such poor assessment is levied and assessed,” according to the Education Act? In other words, is an assessment for School Rate alone, without a Poor Rate, a legal one? Your answer will much oblige. – I have, &c., – (Signed) G. M. McCRIE. Inspector & Collector.
To the Secretary, Board of Supervision, Edinburgh.

———————

Board of Supervision, Edinburgh, 17th March, 1891.

SIR, – I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated the 3rd instant, and have to refer you in reply, to the 44th section of the Education Act, which, inter alia provides that should there be no assessment for the poor, the School Board shall be entitled and bound, directly to assess for and levy the said School Rate in the same manner, as if it were poor’s assessment. – I am, etc., – (Signed) – JOHN SKELTON, Secretary.
To Mr McCrie, Inspector of Poor, Rousay.


1891 April 1 Orkney Herald

A ROUSAY CROFTER CASE. – Some time ago General Burroughs, proprietor of the island of Rousay, raised an action of ejectment in the Sheriff Court, against Malcolm Leonard, Upper Gripps, Sourin, Rousay, whereupon the defender applied to the Crofters Commission to have it declared that he is a crofter. The facts of the case are these – Malcolm Leonard, crofter, Gripps, died in September 1890. His eldest son, Alexander Leonard, who resides in New Zealand, was communicated with, and wrote a letter renouncing his right to the tenancy of Gripps. Meantime the second son, Malcolm, who has for long worked the croft, continued to occupy it. When General Burroughs raised the action for ejectment, Malcolm Leonard applied to the Crofters Commission to find that he was a crofter, and answers were lodged by the proprietor. The Crofters Commission have now issued their interlocutor, finding that applicant is a crofter within the meaning and scope of the Act.

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Letters to the Editor

ROUSAY SCHOOL BOARD ASSESSMENT.

SIR, – No school rate was levied in this parish last year, but a very high rate has been imposed this year. Mr McCrie, collector of rates, published in last week’s Orkney Herald a correspondence he has had with the Secretary to the Board of Supervision, professedly bearing on the subject. He evidently desires to blame the School Board for the omission of the rate, and has got an opinion from the Secretary in his favour, simply by keeping the leading facts out of his reference to him. If the Parochial Board levy no rate for the relief of the poor and intimate that to the School Board, then it is the duty of the School Board to impose its own rate. But Mr McCrie undertook to raise the School rate, and he gave us no intimation that he was not to levy a poor-rate. He moreover indicated in his letters to the School Board that the rate was simply postponed, and he paid the whole money requirements for the year. The School Board, therefore, had no power and no necessity to levy a school assessment. The following letters will explain the position both of the collector and of the School Board, and show where the blame for the non-assessment lies.

On 11th June 1889 the School Board intimated by letter to the collector the amount required by assessment to meet the deficiency in the school fund. Mr McCrie acknowledged receipt of our letter as follows: –

——————–

Curquoy, Rousay, 11th June 1889.

To Mr James G. Craigie, Clerk and Treasurer, School Board.

SIR, – I am in receipt of your letter of this day’s date, intimating that you have fixed the amount of deficiency in school fund to be levied in forthcoming assessments at £40, and the said intimation is hereby duly acknowledged. – I am, sir, your obedient servant, – (Signed) G. Meikle McCrie, Collector.

——————–

In this letter Mr McCrie says the assessments are forthcoming and undertakes to raise the school requirement. No further communication passed between the collector and the School Board until the following February, when the Clerk of the School Board received the following letter from Mr McCrie: –

——————–

Curquoy, Rousay, 22nd February 1890.

To Mr James G. Craigie, Treasurer, Rousay School Board.

SIR, – Enclosed I beg to hand you a cheque for £7 stg., as payment on account of School Board requirement for 1889-90. Please do the needful to the accompanying receipt and return in course of post. It would be a favour if you could inform me, for the guidance of my Board, at what time the School Board is likely to be in need of funds. As you are aware, no rate has been levied, and, perhaps, owing to the altered state of matters as regards fees the whole of the estimated requirement may not now be needed. Any information on these points with which you may favour me shall be laid before my Board. I shall be able, in all likelihood, to give you a further payment of a few pounds shortly. – Your obedient servant, – (signed) G. Meikle McCrie, Collector.

——————–

In this letter the Collector makes part payment of the school requirement and asks for information because “no rate has yet been levied.” He promises to lay the information before the Parochial Board and retains the power to levy the school rate. He gives no intimation about the poor rate and thus the School Board has no power to take the matter into its own hands.

On the 18th March 1890 it sent to him this extract from its minute of meeting: – “Read letter from Mr McCrie, Inspector of Poor, making inquiry as to the Board’s need of funds. The Board resolved to intimate to Mr McCrie that the full amount of £10 stg., as notified in the month of June last, will be required as soon as possible.” On receipt of this letter from the Clerk of the School Board it was then his duty if he did not intend to levy a poor rate, to make intimation of that decision to the School Board so that it might take steps to raise its own rate. Instead of sending that information to the School Board he sent the following letter with enclosed cheque: –

——————–

Curquoy, Rousay, 24th March 1890.

To Mr James G. Craigie, Treasurer, School Board.

SIR, – In reply to your duly received favour of the 18th March, I beg to enclose a cheque for £50 stg., to account of School Board requirement for the current year. I hope soon to be able to make a further payment and to complete the year’s requirement after consulting my Board at their statutory meeting, which will probably be held in little more than a month. I enclose the usual receipt form, which please favour with the needful, and oblige – Your obedient servant, (Signed) G. M. McCrie, Collector.

——————–

Mr McCrie promises in this letter to complete the year’s requirement after consulting his Board. No intimation was sent to the School Board giving the result of that consultation. He completed the year’s requirement, and then levied a high rate to make up for the sum he had paid. When his notices of assessment were issued last month, some dissatisfaction was expressed at lumping two years’ rates into one. He then thought of blaming the Chairman of the School Board for the mistake. He made out about a month ago the account current or balance sheet for 1889-90, and inserted it in some strange statements. In his letter of 24th March, he says to the Clerk of the School Board – “In reply to your duly received favour of 18th March, I beg to enclose cheque for £50 stg.;” but in the balance sheet he writes that he paid the mosey at the request of the Chairman of School Board “because funds were urgently required.” In his letter he says he pays the money on the demand of the Clerk, and as a debt due to the School Board. In his balance sheet he says he pays it at the request of the Chairman, and as a loan granted to the School Board upon which interest may be charged. A balance sheet is usually understood to set forth the exact money transactions of the year. To make the payment of a debt on demand appear as the granting of a loan on special request is surely a new way of making up a balance sheet. – Yours, &c., – A. IRVINE PIRIE. Rousay, 25th March 1891.


1891 April 8 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

ROUSAY SCHOOL BOARD ASSESSMENT.

SIR, – I observe, in your last issue, a letter with the above title signed A. Irvine Pirie, containing such wild and inaccurate statements regarding myself as inspector and collector of this parish that I feel bound, in self-defence, to correct them. In the first place, how does the rev. gentleman take upon himself to publish official correspondence without his own or my Board’s sanction? He has no more right to do so than I have to publish the minutes of my Board. However, for that lack of common sense and etiquette, he may be called to account sooner than he thinks.

I correct in order the rev. gentleman’s misstatements. He has often written me privately, much to the same effect. Of late I have disregarded his letters. Anyone curious to know the tenour of his communications may consult the columns of your contemporary of Saturday last, in which I point out, and am quite willing to prove, that the so-called proceedings of the School Board as regards myself are but Mr Pirie’s own sentences, word for word, contained in letters from him to me several weeks before the date of the meeting. I refrain from characterising this procedure! The Inspector of Poor of a parish has been legally defined as the hand of the Parochial Board, but I have yet to learn that the Chairman of the School Board is more than a private individual outside the sessions of his Board.

The juncture, which I asked the Board of Supervision to give me an opinion upon, never actually happened in this parish, though the question of its possibility has been discussed by Mr Pirie himself in his letters to me. In the note in which I forwarded the opinion to you for publication, I stated that it might be of value to other parishes. Had the question really arisen here I might have sought opinion, but my Board never did or had to face the question. It is, however, a stunning blow to Mr Pirie, because it destroys the ground upon which he so confidently builds. Accordingly, he says I have got the opinion, in my favour, from the Secretary by keeping the leading facts out of my reference to him. Will Mr Pirie kindly state in what respect? I repeat the circumstances did not need to be detailed, because the juncture never happened. Point out, however, any misstatement in my letter to the Board of Supervision, and I will admit it when proved, until then Mr Pirie simply assails me without foundation.

The next point is so simple that it regulates itself. A collector cannot in June, unless under his Board’s orders, undertake to do anything. It is in November that our Parochial Board fixes the assessments.

Mr Pirie suppresses the private interviews with me on the roadside in autumn 1889 and February 1890, when he acted as deliberately for his Board as he is doing now. He may deny any such communications upon financial matters just at these dates, but that he has been in the habit of discharging such duties, even in advance of his own Board’s meeting, is undeniable. In a letter to me as collector, dated 28th February 1891, he deliberately says: – “That information [viz, as to when the School Board was likely to be in need of funds] you got in a few days thereafter from me, when I told you we required the full sum” (my [McCrie’s] italics). In the following lines he indicates that this official communication on his part to me was before the meeting of the School Board. When am I to accept Mr Pirie’s communications as official and when not? One more point or two and I have done. Mr Pirie insinuates that ”I then thought of blaming the Chairman for the mistake,” viz., after complaint had reached me of double assessment. If by this Mr Pirie means his complaint then the statement is contradicted by dates. My so-called “balance sheet” – really “account current” – was dated and posted to the Chairman of my Board in London on 12th February of this year. Mr Pirie’s first letter of complaint to me, and I have had no other, is dated 18th February. Will Mr Pirie retract this insinuation of his or not?

The “account current,” which Mr Pirie calls a “balance sheet.” is made up in the regular fashion. I decline to accept Mr Pirie as an authority on such matters. It may be to him a novel way of making up a balance sheet; perhaps so, but every entry of my account current is absolutely correct.

The truth is, Mr Pirie and his colleagues were working on lines of imperfect knowledge all along, as any expert can see. I am bound to take no active part in School Board elections, so I forbear commenting on the rev. gentleman’s motives in continuing this correspondence. They are, however, plain enough! – I am, &c., GEORGE M. McCRIE. Curquoy. Rousay, 3rd April 1891.


1891 April 15 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

ROUSAY ASSESSMENT DISPUTE.

SIR, – Your last week’s issue contained a letter from Mr McCrie purporting to be a correction of some statements I made in reference to his action as collector of rates in this parish. His letter contains no correction of my stalements, nor any defence of his own action. He indulges in some very desultory skirmishing, under cover of which he retreats from positions he found to be untenable. The admissions he makes are interesting. I make a note of a few of them.

First admission. – Mr McCrie says in his letter – “The Inspector of poor of a parish has been legally defined as the hand of the Parochial Board.” This is just what I have been anxious to get from him ail along. The letter we received from him undertaking to raise the school rate was therefore written by the hand of the Rating Authority, and it did not matter to us when the rates might be imposed. The hand of the rating power took the responsibility and the Education Act settles the rest. To be legally defined as the hand, is surely quite sufficient for any servant’s ambition, but I rather think Mr McCrie is inclined to claim more. Our clerk returned the account current for correction, to the Rating Authority, and Mr McCrie sent it back, saying, “I cannot accept of its return and herewith re-inclose it.” A document sent to the Rating Authority he considers as sent to himself and rejects it. He has surely a legal definition that he is not merely the hand, but the whole body of the Rating Authority.

Second admission. – Mr McCrie says in his letter – “I have yet to learn that the Chairman of School Board is more than a private individual outside the sessions of his own Board.” This is just what I have been contending for. What a pity he forgot this when he sat down to draw up the balance sheet. If he had just kept this in his mind, all this palaver about roadside gossip would have been avoided, and the account current would have contained no scribbles about a private individual’s words. He asks “When am I to accept Mr Pirie’s communications as official and when not?” He could have nothing better to guide him than his own written opinion. Outside the sessions of my Board I am a private individual. If he will keep this in mind for the future, then it will be possible for me, and for any member of the Board to speak to him on the roadside on current topics without running the risk of seeing a garbled report of the same set forth, a twelvemonth afterwards, in an official document.

Third admission. – Mr McCrie says in his letter – “The juncture which I asked the Board of Supervision to give me an opinion upon, never actually happened in this parish.” This is just what I contended for. Although Mr McCrie put, as he called it, a Rousay case before the Board of Supervision and triumphantly published the opinion he got, and declared that it would cause confusion to the Rousay School Board, he now says that it had no reference to Rousay at all. It was just a generous act on the part of Mr McCrie for the benefit of other parishes. Perhaps he was afraid some of them might tumble into the same scrape as he had tumbled into and in the magnanimity of his heart he wished to save them. Perhaps he discovered the opinion he got to be a Trojan horse full of weapons more dangerous to himself than to anyone else, and so he quietly slips it overboard.

Fourth admission. – Mr McCrie says in his letter – “The truth is Mr Pirie and his colleagues were working on lines of imperfect knowledge all along.” This is just what I have been affirming. We received no information from Mr McCrie about this non-assessment business. We do not know to this day whether the rate was omitted or postponed. I will not be astonished to discover some day that the collector made an imperfect calculation of his available funds and advised the Rating Authority to delay the rate for a little, and that all this dispute about the school rate has been put forward by Mr McCrie himself in the furtherance of some little scheme. Of course not an election scheme. Oh dear, no! he would not touch such things with his little finger.

These admissions show that the strife of words makes for progress. The inaccuracy of the account or balance sheet will soon be admitted also. By the way Mr McCrie says I must not call it a balance sheet. There are some people who would not call a spade a spade, but an agricultural implement. So this small account must not be called a balance sheet although it professes to sum up and balance the financial transactions of the year. To sum up the whole matter – Mr McCrie’s statement about the chairman interfering with the levying of the rate is just a concocted story, an idle tale, unsupported by a particle of evidence. The account current is a work of folly; a superfluity; a nuisance, and may now be buried, out of sight and out of mind, in the waste basket. – Yours, &c., – A. IRVINE PIRIE. Rousay, 13th April, 1891.


1891 April 22 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

ROUSAY SCHOOL BOARD ASSESSMENT.

SIR, – Your correspondent, the Rev. Mr Pirie, again returns to the charge regarding above. Now, however, he loses his temper, and strikes out blindly. He does not answer the questions directly put to him by me in your issue of 8th inst. I therefore put them again before him in brief. After that I will answer his letter.

Question No. 1. – How, or by what authority, does Mr Pirie take upon himself to publish official correspondence, without joint consent of both Boards?

Question No. 2. – How does it happen that the version of the School Board proceedings, lately printed in the columns of your contemporary, corresponds almost word for word – in so far as this controversy is concerned – with Mr Pirie’s letters to me written before the School Board meeting in question was held?

Question No. 3. – How does it happen that Mr Pirie accuses me of obtaining a decision favourable to myself, from the Board of Supervision, “simply by keeping the leading facts out of my reference.” I have asked Mr Pirie to state what “leading facts” are misstated. Where is his reply? It is not forthcoming. This is no strife of words alone. The accusation against me of misstating my reference has been deliberately made by Mr Pirie. Proof is asked of him, and is not given. This is quite enough. The public will know in what light to view Mr Pirie’s eloquent silence. To give him one more chance, I ask again – In what respect is the reference misstated, or, to put it as be does, “the leading facts kept out?”

Question No. 4. – What answer to this? Mr Pirie insinuated that I thought of blaming the Chairman of the School Board after complaint had reached me of double assessment. I asked, in reply (Herald of 8th April), if Mr Pirie meant his complaint. He does not reply. And his silence is owing to the fact, already disclosed, that the dates of the two matters won’t fit. Does Mr Pirie abandon the wanton insinuation or not? Yes or no?

So long as these questions remain unanswered, Mr Pirie’s blindest partisans will distrust him. Other people will regard his not answering them at once when they were put – for they are vital to the issue – as practically forsaking his guns. No “question-begging epithets,” such as “concocted story,” “idle tale,” &c., &c., will serve in lieu of argument.

I now turn to Mr Pirie’s last letter, and find that he derives much consolation from my so-called “admissions.” Let us see: –

(1) I defined the Inspector as the “hand of the Parochial Board.” Mr Pirie catches at this greedily. Unfortunately for him, the letter which his Board received from me, “undertaking (as he puts it) to raise the school rate,” was signed by the collector. That both offices are conjoined makes no difference. I never said that the collector was the “hand of the Parochial Board.” In the letter I wrote, returning the account current to the treasurer, I certainly signed as inspector and collector. If Mr Pirie reads the original, which he can easily do, through and through, he will see the reason therefore. But he does not want to read it through and through, or quote more than he quotes, for the very next sentence of the letter after the one he quotes shows my reason for returning the account, and that I did not do so on my own responsibility. So much for that.

(2) In reference to my “admission,” No. 3, Mr Pirie says: – “Although Mr McCrie put, as he called it, a Rousay case before the Board of Supervision…..he now says that it had no reference to Rousay at all.” I beg pardon. I never said so. I said in my letter (O.H., April 8th) that “the juncture…..never actually happened in this parish, though the question of its possibility has been discussed by Mr Pirie in his letters to me.” Mr Pirie leaves off quoting my words at a comma, because the completed sentence does not suit him. How eminently fair and impartial this method! It has only one disadvantage. It only lasts for a week, when it goes to powder!

(3) I find I have omitted Mr Pirie’s second paragraph. There is not much in it. I apologise, however, for alluding to it out of order. Mr Pirie finds that he is a private individual outside the sessions of his Board. I felicitate him on the discovery. Only it jars terribly with No. 2 of my unanswered questions, see ante – and with his own written admission to me of 28th February 1891. “I told you we required the full sum,” and “that information you got from me” – and all this before his Board met! I decline, in future, to hold any conversation whatever with Mr Pirie, so I shall never run the risk of talking with a chairman and a private individual, who can be either the one or the other just as he chooses, or as the exigencies of his argument require.

(4) Mr Pirie’s fourth paragraph is really amusing. He says that my admission that he and his colleagues were “working on lines of imperfect knowledge all along” is just what he has been affirming – because “we received no information from Mr McCrie about this non-assessment business.” Well “knowledge” and “information ” are not synonymous, so that argument is halting, and to add that “we do not know to this day whether the rate was omitted or postponed” – is just simply “begging the question” in his own favour. The insinuation that I made any “imperfect calculation” whatever is absolutely false. I leave the formulating of “little schemes” to the coiner of the phrase. The expression as regards myself is at once dishonourable and untrue.

(5) In Mr Pirie’s closing paragraph he descends to more vituperation. I decline to descend to his level. Suffice it to say that the statement that my version of the matter is a “concocted story,” an “idle tale,” is one which rests upon his own assertion only. He that believes it may of course do so, but I am afraid that Mr Pirie has few supporters in this random and valueless assertion. As for evidence, especially when dates are concerned, we must not look for that. We must also remember that Mr Pirie may, at any moment, retreat from the position of a private individual to that of “Chairman” – bound not to reveal the secrets of his Board’s nightly sessions – and vice versa. “Everything by turns and nothing long!” Apologies for length of this letter. – I am, &c., – G. M. McCRIE. Rousay, 17th April 1891.


1891 April 29 Orkney Herald

THE CENSUS. – Though the complete census returns will probably show that the population of Scotland, as a whole, has advanced very considerably since 1881, it is already apparent that in most rural districts the population has declined. Orkney is one of those districts in which the movement has been in a downward direction, the actual number of inhabitants within its bounds on the night of the 6th April last having been 30,171, or 1873 less than when the previous decennial census was taken. Had the natural growth of population been unchecked, the total ought now to have approached 33,500; but to the constant ebb and flow of people there has, during the past ten years, been added a very large and steady emigration to the British colonies and United States. From two of the North Isles, for instance, and these not the most populous, over 400 persons have emigrated during that period. The economic condition of the Orkneys would not, of course, have led one to look for a large, or indeed, for any, increase in the number of their inhabitants, but a decrease of nearly six per cent. from the figures of 1881, reducing the total below what it was fifty years ago, comes as a disappointing surprise, and indicates that so long as agriculture and fishing – the chief means of livelihood of Orcadians – are practised under present methods and conditions, the population of the islands cannot greatly increase, though neither is it likely to decrease much. There may be rise and fall, but no great fluctuation need be anticipated.

[The population of Rousay in 1891 was 774 folk; 313 lived in Sourin; 218 in Wasbister; 130 in Frotoft; 64 in the Brinian; and 49 in Westness and Quandale.]


1891 May 6 Orkney Herald

AN ORKNEY WEDDING TWENTY YEARS AGO.

[BY AN ORCADIAN.]

THE courtship is over, the bashful swain has proposed to his lady love, has been accepted, and all the wedding preparations are going on apace. On the Monthly following the third crying in the Parish Church, Betty and Magnus proceed together in Magnus’s  “cairt” to the “toun” to buy the wedding “gear,” by which is understood, the cake, the whisky, a new suit of clothes for the bridegroom, a new “goun” for the bride, and several other necessaries, all of which are paid for by the bridegroom.

The wedding is to take place on Thursday, the only day which is considered lucky in our islands, and it is also necessary that the moon be waxing, as a waning moon bodes ill-luck to the wedded pair.

On Tuesday evening the bridegroom, accompanied by the best man, proceeds to the manse to secure the minister’s services. On this occasion Magnus is extremely bashful, and the minister, after discoursing on the weather, crops, and other topics till he is exhausted, says, “Well, Magnus, have you come on any partioular business tonight?” “Oh, nothin’ unca partic’lar, sir,” replies the bridegroom, but Jock (the best man), fearing another half-hour’s sederunt, takes the bull by the horns and explains the object of their visit.

The wedding evening arrives, and with it the guests, who are all expected to bring a present with them – the men a bottle of whisky and the women a cake or something of that sort. When all is ready the best man goes to the manse to escort the minister. As soon as he arrives the couple take their places, and are duly joined together with many admonitions and much good advice. The congratulations over, the cake is brought in. This is a huge square of thick shortbread thickly studded with sweeties and orange peel. ln the centre are two hearts united, and at each corner is the emblem of the bridegroom’s trade. If he be a farmer, a plough appears in orange peel; if a sailor, a ship, &c. The minister proceeds to cut the cake in small pieces, first, however, cutting out the hearts and presenting them to the bride, with some suitable speech. The “cog” is then passed round. This is a large wooden bowl containing a goodly quantity of a hot drink, composed of spirits, ale, and spices. Each person receives the “cog” in both hands, says “The bride and bridegroom’s health, I wush likewise the company’s,” and buries his head for a moment in the huge bowl. The “cog” is passed round at intervals during the evening, and its contents very soon produce an elevated and jovial frame of mind in its devotees.

Tea comes next. The tables are laden with cakes and scones, biscuits and cheese, and the guests are expected to help themselves to everything which is offered, however full their plates may be. After tea, the bride and bridegroom, the minister and the nearest relatives of the wedded pair, receive a “hansel,” which is presented by the mother of the bridegroom, and consists of a portion of every kind of food on the table. After tea the company proceeds to the barn, where dancing begins and is kept up till dawn, it being considered necessary to have daylight in order to find the way home, especially for those who have devoted themselves to the “cog.”


1891 May 27 Orkney Herald

AGRICULTURAL PROSPECTS IN ORKNEY. – The severe wintry weather of March was followed by a fine dry April, which enabled farmers to get their cereal and grass seeds sown in capital order. A protracted northerly gale about the middle of this month, accompanied with sleet, snow, and frost checked vegetation, and left both braird and grass quite brown, and owing to the cold northerly wind there has been but slow progress since. Turnips have been done for a week or more, but the heavy crop of last year has been of great service in enabling farmers to hold on to their store stock in hopes of better prices, which, however, do not appear likely to be realised as the south markets still remain dull. There is a keen demand and high prices for horses, especially for good animals – those suitable for tramcars and lorries. The price of pork has also gone up, but owing to the scarcity of potatoes there has been but a dull demand for young pigs. Farmers are at present busy sowing swedes, the land being in fine condition for the purpose.


1891 June 24 Orkney Herald

AN ORKNEY FARMER’S CLAIM. – In the Court of Session last week the record was closed in an action before Lord Low, in which Thomas Sinclair, sometime farmer and miller, Hurtiso, presently residing at Swandale, Rousay, sued Samuel Sinclair, presently residing at 22 Dean Park Street, Edinburgh, and others. The pursuer is one of the next-of-kin and executors of Mrs Christina Inkster, or Sinclair, widow of the late Robert Sinclair, Swandale, Rousay, and the defenders are the next-of-kin of Robert Sinclair and his executors. Pursuer has raised the action to have the defenders ordained to produce an account of their intromissions with the estate, or for payment of £120. Robert Sinclair died in February, 1884, and left a widow and six children, of whom the pursuer is one. One of the children has since died, and another has not been heard of for many years. His father’s estate at the time of his death amounted to at least £830, and he left a settlement in which he expressly excluded his son from any interest therein. No step was taken, he says, to make up a title, or administer the estate under the settlement. Its existence was ighnored by his widow, who transferred the whole estate to her own name, and kept it during her life. She had no legal advice and was not called on to select between the provisions of her husband’s settlement and her legal rights, and  pursuer contends that her right has passed to him for his interest in her succession. He says the moveable estate of his father was subject to division – one-third as jus relictae to his widow, one-third as legitim to his children, and one-third to be disposed of in terms of the settlement. He claims one-sixth of the legitim, and one-sixth share of the jus relictae. Defenders say that pursuer’s father made no provision for him in his settlement; the advances which he made to him in his lifetime were greater than his share of legitim; and they plead that he has no title to sue in connection with his mother’s estate, she having accepted her husband’s settlement, which life-rented his estate to her.


1891 July 18 Aberdeen Free Press

Kirkwall – General Holiday.  – Yesterday was held as the annual holiday, and all places of business were shut. The ss. Orcadia, which intended going to Fair Isle on a pleasure trip, had to abandon the project owing to an easterly sea and foggy weather, going instead to Westray. Trips to Shapinshay, Sanday, and Rousay were well patronised, and every available conveyance was engaged for private parties going to picnics to all parts Orkney. The wind was easterly, and heavy fog came on.


1891 July 20 Aberdeen Free Press

BELATED ORCADIAN EXCURSIONISTS. – Friday, as has already been reported, was observed as the annual holiday in Orkney, and a number of excursions by water took place. A very dense fog, however, set in at night, and it was feared that many of the excursionists would not get home. The s.s. Lizzie Burroughs, from Rousay, and the rest of the sailing boats, got in about ten o’clock; but, owing to the dense fog the s.s. Orcadia, at Westray, and the Star of Bethlehem, at Sanday, could not leave, but both arrived at Kirkwall on Saturday morning with their excursionists. The wind was fresh from the south-east, and it was still foggy.


1891 August 12 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY CATTLE SHOW. –  The annual cattle show in connection with the Rousay and Veira Agricultural Society was held on Wednesday last on the farm of Banks, Sourin. The weather during the day was the best we have had for a considerable time past, and consequently the field was visited by a large number of people, some having come from a considerable distance. Cattle were a good show all over; but we have seen a larger display of horses and sheep. Altogether the show was an exceedingly creditable one and turned out quite a success. The judges were Messrs Marshall, Berstane, and Tait, Papdale, St Ola, whose careful decisions gave entire satisfaction. The following were the prize-winners: –

CATTLE.
Bulls. – 1, John Gibson, Hurtiso.
Milk Cows. – 1 and 3, General Burroughs, Trumland Farm; 2, Robert Mainland, Nears; commended, George Gibson, Avelshay.
Two-Year-Old Heifers. – 1, General Burroughs, Trumland Farm; 2, George Stevenson, Scockness; 3, John Gibson, Langskaill; commended, George Stevenson, Scockness.
Two-Year-Old Steers. – 1 and 2, William Learmonth, Faraclett; 3, Hugh Sinclair, Bigland.
One-Year-Old Heifers. – 1 General Burroughs, Trumland Farm; 2, Hugh Sinclair, Bigland; 3, Allan C. Gibson, Myres; 4, Robert Mainland, Nears; commended, General Burroughs, Trumland Farm.
One-Year-Old Steers. – 1 and 3, William Learmonth, Faraclett; 2 and 4, and commended, General Burroughs, Trumland Farm.

HORSES.
Mares with Foal at Foot. – 1 and 3, Hugh Sinclair, Bigland; 2, David Inkster, Innister.
Draught Mares. – 1, George Gibson, Avelshay; 2, General Burroughs, Trumland Farm; 3, Robert Mainland, Nears.
Two-Year-Old Fillies. – 1, John Gibson, Langskaill; 2, William Learmouth, Faraclett; 3, Hugh Sinclair, Bigland; commended, William Mainland, Banks.
Two-Year-Old Colts. – 1, General Burroughs, Trumland Farm; 2, John Gibson, Hurtiso.

SHEEP.
Best Tup. – 1, Hugh Sinclair, Bigland.
Best Ewe and Lamb. – 1, Hugh Sinclair, Bigland.

POULTRY.
Cock and Hen. – 1, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland Farm.
Chickens. – 1 and 2, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland Farm.
Ducklings. – 1, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland Farm.
Butter, one sample sweet. – 1, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland Farm.
Do., one sample salt. – 1, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland Farm.

In the evening the judges and a number of gentlemen sat down in the Sourin Public School to an excellent dinner prepared by Mrs Simpson and Mrs Blyth, Sourin Public School, and Miss Mary Learmonth, Faraclett. Mr Gibson, Langskaill, ably occupied the chair, and Mr Gordon, Saviskaill, performed the duties of croupier. The principal toasts proposed and responded to were the following: – “Her Majesty the Queen and Royal Family”; “General Burroughs, president of the Society, and Mrs Burroughs,” by the Chairman; “The Judges,” by Mr A. C. Gibson; “The School Board and teachers,” replied to by Mr Gibson, Hurtiso, and Mr Horne, teacher, Wasbister; “The Rousay and Veira Agricultural Society,” &c., &c. A most enjoyable evening was spent, every person seeming pleased with the day’s proceedings.


1891 August 19 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – REGATTA. – The annual regatta of the Rousay Boat Club was held in Trumland Sound on Friday. The day was favourable, and there was a fair turnout of boats. The sailing races passed off very well. In the rowing race there was keen competition; but the boys’ rowing race was the most amusing one of the day. The Committee take this opportunity of returning thanks to General and Mrs Burroughs, Trumland; Colonel and Miss Macpherson, Cluny; Sheriff Armour, and the other contributors towards the prize fund of the Club. The following is the prize-list: –

First race. – 1, Daphine, Sheriff Armour; 2, Sweyn, J. Garrioch; 3, Walrus, A. Leask.
Second race. – 1, Lily, William Corsie.
Third race. – All-Comers – 1, Daphine, Sheriff Armour; 2, Sigurd, General Burroughs; 3, Sweyn, J. Garrioch.
Rowing race. – 1, J. Isbister; 2, John Reid; 3, Isaac Marwick.
Boys’ rowing race. – 1, Pirie and Swanson; 2, Reid and Robertson; 3, Logie and Millar; 4, Harrold and —–; 5, Learmonth and —–.


1891 August 26 Orkney Herald

ORKNEY SCHOOL REPORTS.

The following are H.M. Inspector’s reports or the undernoted schools: –

SOURIN PUBLIC SCHOOL – The work in the junior department, which includes infants and the first and second standards, admits of very considerable improvement. Slate writing among the infants, and in the first and second standards, is not more than fair. Spelling in the second standard is somewhat weak, but arithmetic is, on the whole, creditably ready and accurate. A course of object lessons, for which picture cards should be provided, would tend to develop and brighten intelligence at this stage. From the third standard and upwards, reading, while distinct, is very monotonous, and a vigorous effort should be made to infuse into it some measure of taste and expression. Spelling is accurate in the third standards, but somewhat weak in the fourth. Composition in the fifth and sixth standards is very good. Arithmetic all over is accurate, but sum-setting is lacking in neatness. In the class subject of English, parsing and analysis are excellent, and general intelligence has been well developed, but the same faults attach to recitation as to reading. Geography was very well known throughout. The fourth standard made a poor appearance in history. In the other standards, the answering in this subject was good. Singing by note merits special praise. Very good industrial work. Excellent discipline. A set of reading sheets is required for the infant classes. Your attention is requested to article 21 (c). J. Marwick has passed well. She should be informed that she is now qualified under both articles 60 and 70. Average attendance, 52. Grants (inclusive of £10 under article 19 D) £70 16s.

FROTOFT PUBLIC SCHOOL. – A class-room has been added to the school since last year, and the younger classes are now taught under greatly improved conditions of convenience and comfort. The appearance made by them, however, was barely fair. Spelling was very poor in the second standard, and slate- writing both in it and among the infants admits of great improvement. The infants answered well in numbers, and read with very fair fluency. In the third standard reading was very monotonous, spelling poor, and arithmetic slow and inaccurate. Only one pupil was presented in the fourth standard, and he made a fair appearance. In the fifth, a section of the pupils have written very good papers. It says little for the value placed upon education by the parents in the district that out of seven ex-sixth pupils whose names are entered upon the examination schedule only one was present on the day of inspection. In the class subject of English the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth standards were grouped, and professed the same passage for recitation. It might be better to take a less complex passage for the third and fourth standards. Repetition was tasteless and monotonous. Grammar was, on the whole, only fairly well grasped. General intelligence admits of being much more sharply developed. Good work has been done in geography, and a fair appearance was made in history. Singing by note was fair. Good industrial work. The master ought to exercise more direct supervision over the teaching of the younger classes. J. Craigie has passed fairly. Average attendance 45. Grants (inclusive of £15 under article 19 D) £62 15s 6d.

WASBISTER PUBLIC SCHOOL. – The school is taught with marked rigour and skill, and is in a thoroughly efficient condition. In the lower classes, while the general quality of the work is very good, slate-writing among the infants, and notation in the first standard, need attention. Arithmetic was very bright and ready in the second standard, and slate-writing neat and careful. Copywriting from the third upwards shows careful training and supervision. The papers worked on the day of inspection have been worked with exceptional neatness. Spelling in the third and fourth standards is accurate, and composition in the fifth and sixth is of more than average merit. Arithmetic in these standards has been done with very fair success. In the class subject of English it is satisfactory to be able to note that an effort is being made to cultivate taste and expression in the recitation exercises. This was especially noticeable in the case of the first and second standards. A more suitable passage might be selected for recitation in the highest class. Grammar, in the highest class, was very intelligently grasped. Good preparation was shown in history and geography. Sewing and knitting were of excellent quality. Singing is well taught by note. Excellent discipline is maintained. A. Craigie has passed fairly. No payment can be made under Article 19 E for him, as he is not required by Article 32 (C) 1. Mr Horne will shortly receive his certificate. Average attendance, 38. Grants (inclusive of £10 under Article 19 D), £56 1s.


1891 September 2 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SOURIN SCHOOL. – On Friday week, Mrs Burroughs presented to the pupils attending this school the prizes which she gives for sewing, knitting, and darning, the first and third being awarded to Jeannie Russell and the second to Mary Russell. Mrs Burroughs was accompanied by several visitors presently staying at Trumland, and they treated the children to some refreshments. Several pieces of music were tastefully sung by the children.

[The Russell family lived at Brendale]


1891 September 9 Orkney Herald

DEATH OF THE REV. I. E. MARWICK. U.P.CHURCH, KIRKCALDY. – The announcement was made in Kirkcaldy on Tuesday of the death, on the previous evening, of the Rev. I. E. Marwick, pastor of the Bethelfield United Presbyterian Church, Kirkcaldy. Mr Marwick had been laid aside for ten weeks, but up till within a week ago hopes were entertained of his recovery. A change then set in, however, which dispelled all hopes. Having one of the largest and oldest congregations of the United Presbyterian denomination under his charge, he laboured assiduously and well. It is now thirteen years since he came to Kirkcaldy, being located in Ireland, at a place near Belfast, when the call from Bethelfield United Presbyterian Church was addressed to him. Mr Marwick was a native of Rousay, and was only forty-seven years of age. He was married, and leaves a widow and young family.

[Isaac Elrick Marwick was the son of Isaac Marwick and Betty Yorston, Guidal, Sourin, and was born on June 27th 1844. At Holy Isle, Northumberland, on April 28th 1875, he married Mary Crossman Wilson. They had three children, Mary Elizabeth, born in Antrim, Ireland, and Margaret Douglas and Robert Elrick, who were born in Kirkcaldy.]

ROUSAY – THE schools in this island were closed on Friday for the holidays.

THURSDAY was observed as a fast day in the Free Church. The Rev. R. Bonellie was assisted by the Rev. Mr Anderson, of Harray.

THE two boats from Rousay that have been prosecuting the herring fishing at Stronsay have finished for the season, and were beached on Saturday.


1891 September 16 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – FARMING PROSPECTS. – Bere-cutting was begun on Saturday week at the farm of Hooklet*, and is now general. Oats will not, however, be ready for the sickle for a fortnight, and only then if the weather improves very much. Such a wet summer is not within the memory of the oldest inhabitant. Finger and toe is more prevalent than usual this year. One or two farms are entirely free from it, but on others the damage done to the turnip crop is very great. Potatoes are a very poor crop this year. Garden potatoes. except on very dry soil, are in some cases a complete failure. Disease is very common. Peat-carting has yet to be done by many. Some have got no peats home this season yet. Even were the peats ready for carting, the roads are in an almost impassable condition.
[*alternative spelling of Hunclett, Frotoft]


1891 September 23 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – At a meeting of the Parochial Board, held in the Parish Church on Tuesday last, Mr Hugh Marwick, Guidal, was appointed Inspector of Poor and Collector of Rates for the parish.

[Hugh Marwick was the brother of the previously-mentioned Rev. Isaac Elrick Marwick. As well as running a shop at Guidal, Hugh was a carpenter and boatbuilder, school attendance officer, and registrar of births, marriages, and deaths.]


1891 October 14 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – The members of the Scotch Girls’ Friendly Society were invited to tea on Wednesday afternoon by the ladies of Westness House. After some time had been spent very pleasantly inspecting the gardens and hothouses, an adjournment was made to Westness farm, where the girls were entertained to a concert of vocal and instrumental music. The building was tastefully decorated, and the efforts of the performers seemed to be much appreciated by the audience. At the close of the concert, General Burroughs proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies and gentlemen who had taken part, which was heartily responded to. After the concert a dance took place, which was entered into with great spirit to the inspiriting strains of the bagpipes.

HARVESTING. – Advantage has been taken of the spell of good weather we have been favoured with for the last fortnight. Cutting is finished, and by the end of the week it is expected that the whole of the crop will be in the stack yard. Most of it has been already secured, and is in good condition. The crop is an unusually heavy one, and fodder will be plentiful.


1891 October 28 Orkney Herald

CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION FOR THE LOSS OF A COW. – At the Orkney Sheriff Court, Kirkwall, yesterday, before Sheriff Armour, David Marwick, of Housby, Sourin, Rousay, sued William Craigie, of West Crya, Sourin, Rousay, for the sum of £10 12s 2d claimed as compensation for the loss of his cow which was killed by an ox belonging to the defendant, Craigie. Mr Cowper represented the pursuer, and Mr Thomson appeared for the defender. From the evidence it appeared that while the pursuer was engaged at the herring fishing on the 20th of August last, his son, a lad 14 years of age, took a number of his cows to graze on Crya Hill, with the permission of Mr John Gibson, who is tenant of the hill pasture land, and remained in charge of them. While one of the cows was feeding an ox belonging to the defendant rushed at it and knocked it down, inflicting such serious injuries that it died shortly afterwards, its neck being broken. Two witnesses, named John Russell and John Mainland, who saw the cow shortly after its death, and brought it down to the pursuer’s croft, where they skinned it, said it was a lean animal and had only been calved three months previously. It was a good milch cow, but its flesh was scarcely fit for human food, and the value of the carcase in their estimation was not more than £1. That was the value they placed upon it, and the hide would be worth about 7s 10d, the sum allowed for it by the pursuer. They agreed with the pursuer in estimating the value of the cow before its death at £12, and £1 7s 10d deducted from that sum made the loss sustained by the pursuer £10 12s 2d, which was the amount sued for. The Sheriff gave judgement for the full amount claimed, together with the expenses of witnesses, and the legal agent’s fee.

TEMPERANCE CAMPAIGN IN ORKNEY. – Mr James McVittie, continuing the account of his recent temperance campaign in Orkney, in the last issue of the Scottish Temperance League Journal, states that after finishing his tour in the islands referred to in last week’s Orkney Herald, he sailed from Kirkwall on board the steamer Lizzie Burroughs for the North Isles. He says: – After creeping along the shore of the mainland, and calling at one or two smaller islands, we landed at Egilshay, the Island of the Priests, where we had a good meeting, principally women; for the young men here, as in all the islands, are driven forth to seek their home and living in other lands, and the girls are left behind, and Providence is blamed for a disproportion of the sexes. I had to be chairman, precentor, and orator. There used to be a Templar Lodge here, but immigration has killed it. A society between it and the neighbouring island of Veira is contemplated. I was storm staid here till late on the following day, and enjoyed a walk round the island with my kind host, Mr Glen, the teacher, who knows every point of interest in the island and its history. Two things attracted me, its shelly beach, on which we gathered some pretty and rare shells, “grotto buckies:” the other was the old Church and Tower of St Magnus, supposed to be 700 years old. There is an interesting legend about it which I may give some other time. It is a puzzle among antiquarians to determine whether the tower or church has been built first, for it is evident the one has preceded the other.

In the afternoon, two farmers, who are good boatmen, offered to put me across to the Island of Rousay, or Round Hill Island. To a landsman this was no joke, but I reasoned if it is safe for the boatmen I’m all right if I remain in the ship. The crossing was perilously delightful, which I both enjoyed and feared. I have seen the summer sailors down the Clyde getting their small boats in rear of the large steamers to get a pitch, but pitch is not the term here, blown up is nearer the mark; but we were also safely blown over, and, after a two miles’ walk, which helped to dry the spray upon me, I found myself in the Rev. Mr Pirie’s comfortable manse. My comfort, however, was short-lived, for after tea a boat from Veira landed to take Mr Pirie and myself over to the meeting, which had been intimated the previous Sunday. The wind was down, the sea calm, and the moon was rising, so our crossing both ways was as pleasant as the other crossing had been uncomfortable. We had a nice meeting; fully three-fourths of the islanders were present, which is not saying much numerically, say forty. We got over to the manse before midnight, and enjoyed a night’s well-earned repose.

Next morning was bright, and looked propitious for a promised day’s fishing, but ere breakfast was passed there came such a hurricane, fearful fall or drift of rain, bucketsful altogether, such as you had in the south on that Edinburgh holiday; but, as there were no viaducts, bridges, tall stalks, nor railways to operate upon, the storm here had not such a disastrous record. Yet we had a meeting to attend, and drove eight miles round the north-west side of the island to the schoolhouse:

“But sic’ a nicht to tak’ the road in,
As ne’er puir sinner was abroad in.”

Our coming was not expected, and our meeting was small, still we held forth for over an hour.

The drive home in the moonlight will live in my memory. The dark frowning headlands with their fixed and flashing lights in red and white, lashed by the spray of the great rollers of the Atlantic on the one side, and the choppy crested waves of the North Sea on the other. The scream of the weird petrel, with the painful silence of the almost tenementless, treeless land gave a solemnity to that midnight drive I shall never forget.

I needed neither soothing draught nor rocking chair to procure what is worth going to the Orkneys for, a deep, sweet, dreamless sleep, right round the clock.

On the following evening we walked two miles to hold another meeting in the school. They were mostly young ladies who attended, whom I endeavoured to impress with the dignity and privilege of being associated with the temperance movement as an auxiliary of the Christian Church. My meetings in the islands ended here, and I took leave of my good friends Mr and Mrs Pirie next morning, having spent four pleasant days. I also took an order for a few volumes of temperance books. Surely I might be allowed to suggest that some one either on or interested in these islands might present them with a full set of our temperance library, consisting of fifty volumes, for the low price of £2 5s, or in some other form contribute to the League funds in their efforts to carry true temperance teaching to the remote districts of our country.

On board the Lizzie Burroughs once more at seven in the morning, and reach Kirkwall, a distance of fifteen miles, at 12.40, not very fast, but faster then we could have walked it.


1891 November 11 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – MUSICAL ASSOCIATION. – The business meeting of the Sourin Musical Association was held in the Public School on Friday evening. There was a good attendance of members. After the secretary had given an account of the income and expenditure for last session, which showed the society to be in a flourishing condition, the appointment of office-bearers was proceeded with. Mr George Reid, Wasdale, was elected president, Mr Alexander Learmonth, Faraclett, secretary and treasurer, Mr William Simpson, conductor, and Mrs Maggie Simpson, Schoolhouse, pianist. The Association meets for practice weekly in Sourin Public School.


1891 November 18 Orkney Herald

TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE MOON. –  The conditions for viewing the total eclipse of the moon, which took place on Sunday night, were, on the whole, favourable is this locality. The first contact with the penumbra occurred at 9.36 p.m., but it was not tilI fully half-past ten that the true shadow of the earth began to steal over the lunar disc. It took fully an hour to totally eclipse the satellite, and at half-past eleven all that was visible of the moon was a ruddy copper-coloured body, the markings on the surface of which were clearly shown through a telescope. The moon remained obscured till one o’clock on Monday morning. By two o’clock the shadow had passed away, but it was not till three, when the last contact with the penumbra took place, that the orb shone forth with its accustomed brilliancy.


1891 November 18 Orkney Herald

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND THE CROFTERS ACT.

We have extracted the following from an article, entitled “Land Legislation: a Plain Tale and a Warning,” which General Burroughs has contributed to the current number of the National Review: –

After describing the agitation, caused, as General Burroughs states, as a sequence to the Irish Land Act of Mr Gladstone’s Government – an Act he regards as a Landlord Spoliation Act – which led to the passing of the Crofter Holdings (Scotland) Act by the Liberal party, for what he looks upon as “the forcible transference, without compensation, of the property of landlords, to those who hired it from them,” the writer produces arguments from Tory sources – principally from speeches delivered by Lord Salisbury – for the purpose of proving that “the state of affairs which has been thus produced is both unjust and perilous.” In support of his contention that the Crofters Act is a deviation from the paths of justice, he thus proceeds to point out what he styles “the evil effects of the Act in the Orkney Islands”: – It is said that about the time of the introduction of the Education Act into Scotland a high dignitary of the Education Department, who was ordered to inquire into the difficulties there connected with that Act, went in search of the Orkneys among the outer Hebrides! It may therefore be advisable to state that the Orkneys are a group of some sixty-seven islands, of which twenty-nine are inhabited. They measure from N.E. to S.W. about seventy miles, and from E. to W. about forty miles. They are separated from one another by arms of the sea from half a mile to five miles in width, and are dotted with harbours which afford shipping safe shelter from every wind, and render this archipelago a favoured resort for fishermen, for yachtsmen, and for wild-fowlers. To the westward the islands are hilly and picturesque. To the east-ward they are flat, and their scenery, as seen from the sea, is tame. They are situated in the North Sea, off the extreme north coast of Scotland, and some nine miles off the coast of Caithness, from which they are divided by the Pentland Firth. They are grouped around the spot where the degrees 59 of north latitude and 3 of west longitude from the meridian of Greenwich cross each other. Their population is 30,438. The valuation of the county of Orkney in 1890-91 was £78,960. The value of fish landed and sold in a year is shown by the Scottish Fishery Statistics to be not far short of the total land rent; and, strange to say, the value of eggs annually exported and consumed in Orkney also amounts to about £75,000. “It may fairly be said,” says one of our Orkney journals, “that the Orkney live-stock market has in no sense suffered to the same extent as the counties and districts in other parts of Scotland. The islands have all along been free from infectious disease, and while other markets have been tabooed theirs has always been open to the southern buyer.” Consequently, good prices for live-stock have been the rule. Orkney is a great cattle-and-sheep-rearing county. Cattle are sold as two-year-old stots, and sheep as wether hogs, to South-country buyers, to be fed and sold to the butcher. There is no better beef than Orkney beef. All who have been to Paris know that the butchers and the restauranteurs of that city of gourmets make an extra charge for what they call “mouton pre sale,” or for mutton raised on pastures sprinkled with sea-spray. All Orkney mutton is “mouton pre sale,” and is much esteemed wherever known. The mildness of the climate of these islands, caused by the Gulf Stream, and the fact that frost and snow seldom last beyond two days at a time, render it unnecessary for farmers to send sheep south for wintering. Orkney agriculturists are thus saved this heavy expense in Highland farming. Seaweed and shell-sand are to be had in abundance around the shores of these islands, and by their use the heavy bills for fertilisers incurred by farmers of inland districts are unknown to small farmers and crofters in the islands. It must be remembered that the two groups of the Orkney and Shetland islands, excepting in being represented in Parliament by the same man, are to all respects two entirely separate counties; and that Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, is about 100 miles to the south of Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, or as far from it as Aberdeen is from Kirkwall. Previously to Mr Gladstone’s revolution in land legislation for Ireland, peace, prosperity, and good-will between landlord and tenant prevailed in the Orkneys. Since the passing of the Crofter Act the whole agricultural community has been set by the ears. The lairds have been traduced and plundered, and the kindly feeling between them and their crofter is at an end. The large farmers now hate the crofters; and the younger sons of small farmers and of the labourers, who looked forward to marrying and settling on crofts, and now see themselves debarred from doing so by the perpetuity of tenure granted to the crofters, simply detest them, and say, “What right have they to the land? They did not buy it. We have just as much right to it as they have.” Thus the condition of the crofters is in many respects worse than before. They know, and their neighbours know, that in justice they have no proprietorial rights to their holdings, and they may now be seen slouching about with the hang-dog look of persons who are ashamed. No class of the community was more astonished at the results of the Crofters Commission than were the men who suddenly found themselves placed in permanent possession, without purchase, of their neighbours’ property.

Before the year 1832 incomes in these islands had been derived from the manufacture of kelp, which consisted mainly in burning in heaps the sea weed thrown upon the shores. The residuum was called “kelp,” which was sold in those days, to be made into glass and iodine, for as much as £40 a ton. The value of the islands depended upon the amount of kelp they produced; but, barilla having been permitted to be imported into Britain free of duty, and taking the place of kelp, the industry ceased. Then landowners turned their attention to the cultivation of the soil. Since that time the agricultural progress of the Orkneys, as recorded in the Annual Agricultural Returns of the Kingdom, has been proportionally greater than that of almost any other county in Scotland. In other counties agricultural improvement has been steadily progressing since the year 1745. In this county it began about 100 years later; and since the introduction of steam communication with these islands, and until the passing of the Crofter Holdings (Scotland) Act, it was advancing by leaps and bounds. In 1845 the price of a good cow was about £3, and that of a sheep 2s 6d. Now good cows cost from £15 to £18, and sheep cost from £1 to £2 and more. Short-horns and polled cattle are now the prevailing breeds of cattle; and crosses between Leicester and Cheviot are the favourite sheep. There are only two flocks of blackfaced sheep; one in the island of Hoy, and one other in the island of Rousay. A few of the old wild sheep are still to be found in North Ronaldshay. Much land has been put into cultivation, either by the landowners themselves or through specified agreements with the tenants. On the island of Shapinsay alone (part of the estate of Colonel Balfour of Balfour), the extent of which is about 7,000 acres, forty years ago there were not 600 acres of cultivated land. Now about 5,000 acres are cultivated, and the remainder is good pasture. Every important island of the group has been similarly treated. Thousands upon thousands of pounds have been spent by landlords on draining, on enclosing, and on building houses and farm steadings.

Referring to the evidence given before Lord Napier’s and Sheriff Brand’s Crofter Commissioners with regard to his own estates of Rousay and Veira, General Burroughs says – Some £40,000 have by my grand-uncle, the late Mr G. W. Traill, and myself, been expended on improvements during 45 years. Some forty years ago there was in Rousay no road, no pier, no post, and no regular means of communication within the island or beyond it. There was hardly a walled enclosure in it; and the run-rig system of cultivation (when the land was cultivated) was in force. The houses generally were very comfortless; few had any fireplace beyond a hearth-stone in the centre of the dwelling, with a hole in the roof to let the smoke out. Elderly men have told me that in their young days they hardly ever saw the colour of money. Rent was then paid in kain (kind) only. There was then no doctor on the island, and there was only one (the parish) minister. Now in Rousay there are twenty miles of good macadamised roads; there is a substantial stone pier; and a steamer plies between it and Kirkwall, the county town, regularly. There is daily postal communication with the rest of the world, and a post-gig makes the circuit of the island every week-day. Some thirty miles of stone walls and some nine miles of wire fencing have been erected; thousands of acres of land have been drained; fields have been squared; and the run-rig system of cultivation has been abolished; many new houses and farm steadings have been built; and the old “lum” in the centre of the dwelling is no longer to be seen. Money payments have long ago been substituted for payments in kind. There is now a resident doctor; and, instead of one parish minister, there are four ministers – ministers of the Presbyterian, Established, the United Presbyterian, and the Free Churches, to attend to 1118 souls; and there are in the parish five Board Schools, four schoolmasters, one schoolmistress, and four sewing mistresses, to teach less than 200 children. The stipends and salaries of ministers and teachers amount to about £1000 a year. The gross rental of the parish for the year 1890-91 is £3501. These particulars show that the inhabitants of the islands cannot be described as being in destitute or neglected circumstances.

I may add that for some 20 years of my military career I returned one-third of my rental to my tenants, to be laid out, under the superintendence of my factor, in improvements on their farms and holdings. I did not do this out of purely philanthropic motives. I hoped, whilst bettering their condition, to reap a fair return in my old age for this outlay of capital. Old age has now come upon me; but, by a stroke of the pen, the Crofters Commission has robbed me and my heirs of the fruits of my “prudence,” and has handed them in perpetuity to my tenants and their heirs, who have no just claim to them.

The writer goes on to remark that some tourists arrive for the first time in the Orkneys in the expectation of finding the inhabitants in the state of the ancient Britons, but they soon find out their mistake, and discover that the people are neither what the law describes as “infants” in business ways, nor incapable of taking care of themselves. They require no special Acts of Parliament to help them. The climate of the islands is mild and equable; the soil is good; the seas teem with fish; there is sea-weed and shell-sand around the shores; in many of the islands peat was to be had for the trouble of fetching it; and the inhabitants are well housed, well clothed, and well off. Rents always have been low. Poverty there may be, for we are told that the poor are ever to be amongst us, but want and misery, as experienced in large towns and cities, are unknown. It came out in evidence before Lord Napier of Ettrick’s Crofter Commission, in 1883, that during the Lammas Fair week a draper’s shop in Kirkwall drew £500 in the sale of artificial flowers for bonnets to farmers’, crofters’, and labourers’ wives and daughters! The population of Kirkwall is 4100, and there are many draper’s shops in the town, all doing a roaring trade at that time. It was also stated before the Commission that about half a million of money was lodged in the banks of the county in the names of tenant farmers and crofters. Why, then, was the Crofter Act extended to the Orkney Islands, where the landowners have been so enterprising, and the inhabitants generally are so well-to-do?

After citing some of the reasons advanced by the Liberal party for the passing of the Act, the writer remarks that Dr Clarke, M.P. for Caithness-shire, had expressed his belief that “the landlords must go; it was only a question with him of getting them away under equitable conditions.” Possessing no more land than that resting on his travel-stained person, although land in plenty is to be bought, it is at no personal sacrifice to Dr Clarke that the land is wrenched from the possession of its lawful owners, and is handed over to those who have hired it from them.

Such, says General Burroughs, are the “equitable conditions” provided in the Crofter Holdings (Scotland) Act, and he concludes his article by stating the following three cases, out of many others which he states have occurred on his own estate, as samples of Crofter Commission justice: –

On the estate of Rousay, a house called Redlums, with three rooms, a carpenter’s shop, and a cow-byre, with two acres of arable land and nine of pasture, alongside of the public road, was let to a man named John Louttit, who had married a house-maid who had been some years in the Traill family, at first for £2 a year, which, when his family were grown up and able to help him, was raised to £3 a year. Louttit applied to the Commission for a “fair rent.” His rent, like that of others, was reduced some 30 per cent., and made up £2 a year, and of £3 10s of arrears lately run up by him they cancelled £2 10s. Where else, may I ask, can the accommodation possessed by Louttit, and given to him in the first instance as a favour, be obtained for such a rent?

Another case is the farm of Avalshay, on which there are 95 arable acres and 175 pasture. The farm was occupied by two brothers – Leslie Mainland and John Mainland – whose families lived in the same house. Their wives quarrelled, and the eldest brother and his family went to America. In a few years the other brother and his family also went to America. The brothers had had a nephew, a sister’s son named Craigie, as a farm-servant on the farm, who occupied a detached house on it, and as part payment for his services a portion of the farm – a cow’s grass and potato land – had been allotted to him by his uncles. When the second brother left, at the November term in 1886, Craigie came to me and asked to be permitted to retain possession of the house which he occupied until the May term. That time, he said, would be more convenient for him to remove to another house. The farm had been left in bad order, and it was necessary for me to take it into my own hands before re-letting it, so I permitted Craigie to remain in the house until the May term. As the term drew near my factor went to him to arrange about his departure. Craigie intimated that he did not intend to remove. He had been advised to apply to the Crofter Commission to be declared a crofter, and he had done so. Proceedings of removal against him were sisted by the Commission, and they subsequently decreed him to be a crofter. They apportioned him three acres of the farm of Avalshay for his cow, and put upon it a “fair rent” of £2. This house and land, which were now made over by the Commission to Craigie and his heirs for ever, cut off two fields of the farm of Avalshay from a rivulet which supplied them with water; and instead of £100 a year, which was the rent of the farm, its rent, by reason of Craigie being permitted independently to squat upon it, is reduced to £50 a year.

The third case is that of Knarston, which was rented by two tenants – John Gibson and Simpson Skethaway – but as one farm, at a rent of £60 a year. It has 60 arable acres and 27 pasture. Gibson always paid regularly, but Skethaway was generally in arrears. At this time Skethaway’s arrears amounted to £39. When pressed for payment he applied to the Commission. The Commission decreed that £60 divided between two made £30 (the crofter limit of rent), and that they were both crofters. The rent of the farm was reduced from £60 to £35 12s a year, and of £39 of arrears due by Skethaway £25 was cancelled. The rent of this farm in the year 1854, thirty-seven years ago, was £42 – £12 more than the sum to which it has been reduced. In 1854 there was no road in the island, no pier, and no steamer calling at it! The man who was constantly in arrears is rewarded, and the one who paid regularly is (as it were) punished for having done so.

General Burroughs further says – I took the opinion of counsel on those cases. I was told that the decisions were unjust, but that the Commission had been invested by Parliament with extraordinary powers, over-riding the law of the land, and that they had not exceeded those powers, and that there was no redress possible. Many more cases might be cited; but I will only add that applications to the Commission from the County of Orkney have been held over year after year; that proceedings to recover rent in those cases have been sisted, and that landowners, from their incomes being thus unjustly arrested, have been driven to great and unmerited hardship.


1891 December 2 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

GENERAL BURROUGHS ON THE PURCHASE OF ARTIFICIAL FLOWERS.

SIR, – In his article on “Land Legislation” in the National Review, General Burroughs says: – “It came out in evidence before Lord Napier of Ettrick’s Crofters Commission, in 1883, that during the Lammas Fair week a draper’s shop in Kirkwall drew £500 in the sale of artificial flowers for bonnets to farmers’, crofters’, and labourers’, wives and daughters!” The mark of exclamation is the General’s, and I am not surprised that he should have made it. The statement is a most amazing one – so amazing, indeed, that I am inclined to think some error must have been made in the reporting of the evidence – a cipher too many put to the right of the unit, or something of that kind. The artificial flowers sold in Orkney are, as a rule, of the less expensive sorts. How many of the classes enumerated by General Burroughs pay as high as 2s 6d for the flowers which go to decorate their Sunday headgear? Let us take that sum as an average, however, and what do we have? In one week 4000 persons – “farmers’, crofters’, and labourers’ wives and daughters” – purchasing artificial flowers in a single shop in Kirkwall! Amazing! Most amazing!! – Yours, &c.,   D.

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ROUSAY – THE YEARLY BUSINESS MEETING OF The Rousay Medical Association was held in Sourin Public School on Saturday last. There was a full attendance of members, the Rev. A. I. Pirie, president of the association, presiding. The Secretary read an account of the income and expenditure of the association, which has now been in existence for twelve months, and has been of great benefit to the community. The meeting discussed the rules of the society, and as some of these were amended new copies were ordered to be printed, and will, in due course, be supplied to the members. The committee and office-bearers were unanimously re-appointed.


1891 December 23 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – EVENING CLASSES for the study of reading, writing, and arithmetic have been opened in Sourin Public School, and will be continued during the winter months. These classes are intended to benefit those who have left school, and it is to be hoped that many will avail themselves of this opportunity of increasing their proficiency in these useful branches of knowledge.

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Letters to the Editor

SIR, —It appears from your issue of the 18th ult. that General Burroughs has lately been seeking to find for himself fresh fields and pastures new. He has recently been airing his grievances in a paper called the National Review. Since the General’s method of dealing with his tenantry was first revealed before Her Majesty’s Commissioners, his fame as an exacting landlord has gone forth to the world, and has been exposed both far and near. This latest effusion of which has found its way into the National Review, is only a very plain sample of the old stock. The laird of Rousay, after making some attempts to quote statistics to show the prosperous condition of his tenantry, goes on to say that during his military career he returned one-third of his rent to his tenants to be laid out in improving their holdings. Sayings of this kind look well enough on the surface, unless they are probed, but the facts of the case are these: – The General, after the land was squared, laid on a third, and, in some cases, a double rent, which the tenant was compelled to pay in money, or make improvements up to the maximum value, and after seven years this money payment was compulsory, and was rigorously extorted. This was truly the system that was carried on, and is a sample of what the Rousay laird terms his purely philanthropic motives. It should also be stated that the twenty miles of macadamised roads spoken of were not made at the proprietor’s expense, but the tenants were forced to pay a very heavy assessment for road-making during the road-making period. It is quite true the the Rousay farmers and crofters had a considerable amount of money in the banks of the county at one time, but since the rack-renting system commenced things have materially altered for the worse. I have known farmers in the island who had deposits in the bank of from £200 to £800 being compelled in a few years to draw out every sixpence for the purpose of paying their rents. This hard earned money, which might have been a great support and a blessing to its owners in old age, has been all drawn from them. Since the gallant General left off riding his war-horse in foreign lands, and mounted his Rousay war-steed, he has made some desperate attempts all along the line to invade the territory of his poor helpless tenants, but he has not yet been so successful, I am glad know, as he at one time expected. He had not yet won so many victories over his poor crofters as he accomplished on the shores of the Black Sea and among the Sepoys in India. The General makes reference to the reasons why the two brothers, the men of Avelshay, left their farm. The reason why they left the home wherein they were born was that they were not able to pay the exorbitant rent laid on them by their landlord. As a witness of this, I may state that after John Mainland gave it up, Avelshay remained a good while on the hands of the proprietor unlet, and in the end the proprietor was compelled to let it to the present tenant at a greatly reduced rent, I think about one-third less than the Mainlands were paying. It appears rather strange that General Burroughs, in stating some of the hardships which he has had to endure under the Crofters Act, has, for reasons I suppose best known to himseIf, entirely omitted to mention some of the benefits, if benefits they may be called, which the said Act bestows on landlords of his own principles. It has given him a power which he has not been slow to take advantage of, and which he has exercised on two or three of his crofters. This must surely be a very unjust law, which on the one hand gives a proprietor power to prohibit the tenant taking stones from the land which he occupies to repair houses and for other necessary purposes, and on the other hand, at this same time, it gives the proprietor power to prosecute the same tenant if he allows the property to get into a state of disrepair. Surely such an iniquitous and unjust law cannot remain long on the Statute Book in this nineteenth century. The sooner it is repealed the better, for if every proprietor in Scotland were to act as General Burroughs, every poor crofter would in a very few years be forced to leave his dilapidated holding, and where they could all find a home for themselves I am not able in the meantime to say. But we earnestly hope that the time is not far distant when neither General Burroughs nor any of his minions will have either the authority or the power to say to any of his poor crofters, thou shalt not steal stones, but every one on the property will, without fear or favour, have free liberty to take stones and build themselves houses on the earth which God has given them to live upon.

Apologising for taking up so much of your valuable space, – I am, &c.,
A LOVER OF JUSTICE.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1890

1890 January 8 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SERVICE OF SONG. – The scholars of Sourin Public School performed the service of song entitled “Moses and the Exodus” so successfully a fortnight ago that they were requested to repeat it again. Friday evening was chosen for the purpose, and the U. P. Church was placed at their disposal. The platform was elaborately and beautifully decorated by several ladies and gentlemen. The children on their arrival were supplied with tea and fruit. General Burroughs, who presided, and Mrs Burroughs, notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, arrived punctually at the hour. Mr Wilson, teacher, of Sourin, acted as conductor, with Miss Ella Dewes Pirie, one of his scholars, as accompanist on the harmonium. Mr Pirie gave the readings, and the children rendered the various pieces with precision and spirit. The Rev. Robert Bonellie, F.C. and Mrs Bonellie, Mrs Pirie, Messrs Grieve, Learmonth, and Gibson ably assisted the children. At the close of the service Gen. Burroughs proposed a vote of thanks to Mr Wilson, his choir, and their young accompanist, and stated that the highly successful manner in which the children had performed their parts reflected the greatest credit on Mr Wilson’s ability and care as a teacher. Afterwards votes of thanks followed, and a very enjoyable and instructive service was closed with the benediction.

MUSICAL ASSOCIATION. – A feeling having prevailed for some time amongst those who wish to see higher class music promoted in the community, a public meeting was held some time ago in Sourin School, presided over by Mr Pirie. There was a large attendance and the meeting unanimously resolved to form a Musical Association. The Rev. Robert Bonellie was elected president; Mr William Wilson was appointed conductor; Mr Allan Gibson, secretary and treasurer; and Mrs Bonellie, Misses Gibson and Marwick, and Messrs Hugh Sinclair, A. Learmonth, and John Corsie were appointed members of the committee. A large number of names were enrolled, and, we understand, the Association is to hold meetings weekly for the practise of good music.


1890 January 15 Orkney Herald

THE SEASON. – With the exception of the last day or two, which were wet and cold, the weather since the New Year has been mild – our weather wise people say too mild for the month of January; indeed, any month previous to the month of March; and these persons predict much worse weather in March than is experienced at present. Scientific men tell us that winter growth is not to be desired; at any rate, most farmers now think that a check to present vegetation would be desirable. Whether this may apply to grass may not be quite clear, but as to turnips this must be so, as it requires no prescience, and little present discernment, to see that they must be losing their feeding value on account of the rapid growth of the shaws, and if they go on as at present, they will shortly be running into seed. Grass, too, looks wonderfully green; on some fields, indeed, there is more grass just now than there was in the month of August last with a much greener appearance.

ROUSAY – PARISH CHURCH. – At the close of his discourse last Sunday of Job, xxx. 23, the Rev. Mr Spark said: – “Beloved, it is meet that I should make reference to Mr Seatter, for whom we prayed last Lord’s Day, fearing as we did, that he would not see another earthly Sunday. Our fears have been realized; for early yesterday, long ere day dawned, his spirit passed away to God “who gave it.” He was quiet, obliging, industrious, and an excellent neighbour. In my visitations I found him resting firmly in Christ, casting all his sins and all the pains he endured so patiently, at the foot of his Saviour’s cross, and seeking pardon at the fountain of His blood. Some days before he died he expressed a Christian father’s wish that his children would walk in God’s ways, and manifested considerable concern for her whose life had become part and parcel of his own. He is now beyond the river of death. “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord.” Our sympathies go forth to the home of sorrow, but our poor consolations are overborne by the fact that “one is not.” We commit his body to the grave – “ashes to ashes, dust to dust” – in the sure hope of a blessed resurrection. And now the cold stone stands by the lonely grave; now the tears fall fast, and the hands are lifted up in prayer, and the beloved is there, and we are here, but the words of Christ are for the bereaved: – “Because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your hearts; but I will see you again, and your hearts shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.” Amen.

[Evie-born William Seatter and his wife Jane farmed the 257 acres at Saviskaill at this time.]

THE MUSICAL ASSOCIATION. – In the paragraph of last week, reporting the formation of a musical association, in the Sourin district, for the promotion of higher class music, it should have been stated that the association is under the patronage of General and Mrs Burroughs, and that at the public meeting in Sourin school-room General Burroughs was unanimously elected hon. president.


1890 January 22 Orkney Herald

POOR LAW ARBITRATION – ROUSAY AND EGILSHAY v. FIRTH. – A long-standing dispute between the Parochial Boards of the parish of Rousay and Egilshay on the one side and the parish of Firth on the other was submitted by these Boards to the arbitration of Mr John A. Reid, advocate, the editor of the Poor Law Magazine, and he has now issued his findings, deciding in favour of Rousay and Eglishay. The question at issue was whether one William Leonard, a pauper, who was born in Rousay in 1840, afterwards removing with his deceased father and his mother, first to Firth, afterwards to Harray, and then again to Firth, where he now resides with his mother at Quina, was chargeable to the parish of Rousay or to the parish of Firth. The facts and the questions of law are stated in the case submitted to the arbiter as follows: –

On or about the year 1832, Peter Leonard, a native of and (down to the year 1841, as after explained) residing in the united parish of Rousay and Egilshay, was married to Mrs Helen Bews or Leonard, also a native of that parish. There were nine children born of the marriage, one of whom, William Leonard, was born in Rousay on or about the year 1840. In the year 1841, Peter Leonard removed from the parish of Rousay with his wife and family to Quatquoy, in the parish of Firth, where he and his family resided from that date down to the year 1869. In that year he and his family removed from the parish of Firth to the parish of Harray, where he resided till his death in the year 1870. His widow, with her son, William Leonard, continued to reside in Harray until 1877, when they returned to the parish of Firth, and have since that year lived at Queena in that parish. When William Leonard was in pupillarity (his exact age not being agreed upon between the parties), and being in the parish of Firth – he was out with the people of the house on the peatmoss – he strayed away from them and was not found till after considerable search. Any defect of intellect he now suffers from, has always been referred to as originating at this time, viz., to the fright he received. A claim of relief by Firth was made in 1885 against Rousay as the parish of birth, on the ground that Leonard, being fatuous, could never earn a livelihood for himself nor claim a residential settlement. In April 1887, Mrs Leonard made application to the Parochial Board of Firth for relief on behalf of her son, the said Wm. Leonard. This was refused her by the Inspector of Poor, when she applied to the Sheriff-Substitute. A statement on behalf of the Parochial Board of Firth was lodged in the process, but by interlocutor, dated 10th May 1887, the Sheriff repelled the averments therein set forth, and found the applicant legally entitled to relief. Reference is made to this Sheriff Court process, which is sent herewith. The Inspector of Rousay refused to admit liability on the ground that the father, Peter Leonard, had acquired a residential settlement in Firth, which his son William Leonard inherited. The claim of Firth was again revived by letter of 16th January 1888, the original claim being made on 7th July 1885, and again repudiated. He claims that by law and acquiescence the parish of Firth, and not the parish of Rousay is liable (whether the pauper be fatuous or not) for the support of the pauper, William Leonard, assuming him to be a fit subject of parochial relief. The Parochial Ward of Firth refuse to admit that their wish is, either by law or acquiescence, liable for the support of William Leonard. The inspector of Poor for Rousay proposed that the matters in dispute should be referred to the Editor of the Poor Law Magazine, and his proposal was agreed to by the Parochial Board of Firth at a meeting held on 27th April 1888. Reference is made to the copy of correspondence between the two parishes submitted herewith, and. in particular, reference is made to the letter from Firth of 9th July 1885, and Rousay’s reply of 18th July 1885. The foregoing case is therefore submitted to the Editor of the Poor Law Magazine, and he is requested to state whether, in his opinion, the united parish of Rousay and Egilshay or the parish of Firth is liable for the support of the pauper, William Leonard.

The parties having agreed to bear the expense of the reference equally, the question of expenses will not fall to be dealt with by the arbiter.

Upon this case the arbiter has issued the following findings: –

The arbiter finds (1) that the parish of Firth is the parish of settlement of the pauper William Leonard; and (2) that the Parochial Board of said parish is bound to support him as long as he continues a proper object of Parochial relief.

(Signed) JOHN ALEX. REID.

11 Royal Circus, Edinburgh, 26th Dec. 1889.

Agent for Rousay and Egilshay, Mr W. P. Drever; for Firth, Mr D. J. Robertson.


1890 April 2 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – MUSICAL CONCERT. – The Sourin Musical Association made its first public appearance on Friday evening in Sourin school-room. Formed only in January, it has scarcely been three months in existence. Its object is the study of music of a better class, and thus to cultivate the public taste. Its recent formation caused that part of the programme sung by the whole association, to be somewhat brief, but it was performed so successfully as to warrant the attempt of something even more difficult by another session. The individual members joined heartily in the preparations for the concert, and rich quartettes, glees, trios, duets, and solos, a very long programme was made out. The Rev. Andrew Pirie occupied the chair, Mr William Wilson, teacher of Sourin Public School conducted, and Miss Ella Dewes Pirie accompanied on the harmonium. Owing to the length of the programme, encores could not be given, although they were repeatedly asked. Mrs Bonellie’s singing of “Children’s Home” is worthy of special mention, also her rendering of “Jessie’s Dream.” As an encore to the latter, she gave “The Spinning Wheel;.” which fairly brought down the house. Mr Wilson rendered “Consider the Lilies” and “Nazareth” with beauty and taste, but he appeared at his best in the “Death of Nelson,” which he sang with great effect. “The Contest,” a piece written for four voices, was also well received, and had to be repeated again. “The Crooked Bawbee” gave great fun. The duet, “O, wert thou in the cauld blast,” was sweetly sung by Misses M. Gibson and M. Harrold – two senior pupils of Sourin School. They deserve great credit for their first public effort. The choruses rendered by the association are well deserving of praise, especially “From Oberon, in Fairy Land.” In all the pieces the members gave great attention to the conductor’s baton, which is an important factor towards successful singing. On the whole the association is to be congratulated on its first appearance, and the highest praise must be bestowed on Mr Wilson for the pains he has taken, giving as he did his service gratuitously. The accompaniments by Miss Pirie, a senior pupil in the Sourin School, were very carefully and exceedingly well played. All endeavoured to make the concert an educational treat…..


1890 April 30 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – PRESENTATION. – Mr P. L. Muir, who has been headmaster of the Frotoft Public School for a period of more than two years, resigned his situation on Friday 25th curt., and on Thursday was presented with a purse of money by the parents and children in the district. His departure is regretted by a large circle of friends, who wish that success may attend him in the future as it has done in the past.


1890 May 14 Orkney Herald

THE Lizzie Burroughs left last Thursday for Aberdeen to undergo her annual overhaul. In the meantime her place on the passage is being taken by the boat Onward, which calls at Trumland pier only. The steamer is expected to be on passage again on Monday first.


1890 May 21 Orkney Herald

A YEAR OF LIFE-BOAT WORK. – The Royal National Life-Boat Institution has published its annual report. In 1889, 21 new lifeboats of various sizes, possessing all the latest improvements, were sent to the coast, and the boats at 19 other stations were supplied with water-ballast tanks. During the year the Society’s life-boats, of which there are now 295 on the coast, were launched on service 239 times and were instrumental in saving 420 lives and 17 vessels, in addition to which the Committee granted rewards for the saving of 207 lives by shore-boats and other means, thus bringing up the grand total of lives saved for which the institution has granted rewards since its foundation in 1824 to 34,670.


1890 June 13 Peterhead Sentinel & General Advertiser

PRESENTATION TO AN OLD DEER MAN IN ORKNEY. – Mr George Murrison, J.P., some fifteen years factor on the estates of Rousay and Veira, has recently left Orkney, and on the occasion of his departure was presented by General and Mrs Traill Burroughs with a handsome drawing-room clock, bearing the following inscription:- Presented by Lieutenant-General F. Traill Burroughs, C.B., of Rousay and Veira, Orkney, to Mr George Murrison, J.P., as remembrance his able, active, zealous, and faithful services as factor on his estate from 1875 to 1890, and as a token of his sincere regret at parting with him on account of the action of the Crofter Commission having stopped all estate improvements, and having rendered useless the further services of a resident factor.” Mr Murrison is a native of the parish of Old Deer, and his old friends in the district will no doubt be gratified that he has been held in such high esteem in the far north.


1890 June 27 Dundee Advertiser

SEVERE STORM IN THE NORTH. – KIRKWALL. – One of the most severe gales ever experienced in Orkney during the summer mouths raged here early on Wednesday. The skipper of the Fiery Cross, Cullen, was lost twelve miles off Hoy. A boat is reported ashore at Rousay; but it could not be ascertained whether the crew was saved. Another boat went ashore at Shapinshay, but afterwards got off; whilst a third boat, which drifted from its anchor in Kirkwall Bay, was wrecked at Weyland. It is also reported that a boat is ashore at Skaill, and another was seen on the West coast of Orkney floating bottom up. There has been a great loss nets. A South Ronaldshay boat and the Inverness boat Pioneer (437) lost their whole drift, whilst other boats from Thurso and Wick have nearly all lost a few nets.


1890 July 2 Orkney Herald

GREAT STORM IN THE ORKNEYS

DISASTERS TO FISHING FLEET
LOSS OF AN ORKNEY BOAT AND SEVEN MEN
LOSS OF NETS AND DAMAGE TO CROPS

EARLY on Wednesday morning last one of the most severe and destructive storms of recent years broke over Orkney and the West Coast of Scotland generally, although here, unfortunately, it has been attended with the most deplorable results. It is not yet known what the exact loss of life has been, it being variously computed at from thirty to forty. Many boats at first reported missing have since returned safe, but at least four of the Scrabster fleet have been lost – one in the Bay of Skaill and another off Longhope – while two others had each a man overboard. All the Stromness fleet made the land safely, although with enormous difficulty; but unfortunately we have to record the loss of the Walls boat Maggie and her crew of seven in the Westray Firth. On Wednesday morning a large number of East Coast boats ran into Kirkwall harbour and brought such accounts of the weather outside that the utmost anxiety prevailed. One had lost an entire drift of nets, while others had suffered similarly to a lesser extent, not to speak of the loss of their catches. As the day wore on scraps of information and rumour came pouring in, numerous instances being reported where boats had gone ashore on neighbouring islands. A Stroma boat was driven on the sands at Evie, but afterwards got off; the Isabella, of Evie, which was moored off there, broke away and was wrecked at Rousay; while another boat was stated to be ashore at Eday or Pharay, and yet another at Westray. There were numerous other rumours flying about, and we give below such details from our correspondents as have reached us. At present the damage to nets, etc, cannot be computed, almost every boat having suffered in some degree; but it is certain that it will amount to many hundreds of pounds. At Kirkwall itself the only damage done was to the fishing boat belonging to Mr James Copland, which was driven from the Grain Shore to the Bay of Weyland and wrecked. The steam trawler Alice, regarding which there had been considerable anxiety, arrived here all safe on Friday. The skipper had taken shelter at Papa Westray along with several North Ronaldshay and Shapinsay boats. The Otter had also been on a trip to the North Isles, but was most fortunately safe at her moorings when the storm same on.

The boats which came in close along the Rousay and Rendall land, got up to Kirkwall with little difficulty; but most of those which lay close to Shapinsay were carried down the String broadside on, with the flood tide. One of these, the Seiner, PD. 574, went ashore at Shapinsay. The people at once proceeded to the assistance of the fishermen, and fortunately succeeded in saving the whole crew, by means of ropes, but the boat is reported to be useless. Dr Tiplady was also on the spot to render any assistance that might be required. The men of this boat wish to acknowledge the great kindness which they received from the people at Shapinsay.

Our Stromness correspondent writes: – A most disastrous gale swept over this district on Wednesday morning, bringing with it serious loss of life and property to the fleet of fishing boats. On the previous day the fishing was an exceptionally heavy one, and therefore but few boats left the harbour for the fishing ground on Tuesday. Of these, a few returned without shooting their nets, and it is fortunate they did so. With the fleet at sea the gale came on about 11 o’clock, and increased in violence during the night. The boats fishing here had to run before the wind for the Westray Firth, and the day was well advanced before any tidings of their safety reached us. The Scrabster fleet, however, made for Hoy Sound and the Pentland Firth, and in their efforts to reach a harbour, most of the boats spent their sails, and had to run under bare poles before the wind; between six and seven o’clock, the first of the fleet arrived, coming in Hoy Sound without a stitch of canvas, and with difficulty reached the harbour. A Grimsby fishing smack spent his head sails in the Sound, but made the harbour in safety. During the morning the boats were eagerly watched by those on shore, and enquiries made for the safety of the local boats. In trying to take the harbour one or two of them got ashore on the Outer Holm, but sustained no injury. Boats at anchor in the harbour dragged their anchors, and two of them also got ashore on the Outer Holm, but were got off during the day with the assistance of the life-boat crew. The vessels belonging to the Hudson’s Bay Company, anchored in Cairston roadstead, drove a considerable distance, but they received no injury. Three boats, whose sails were unless, took shelter behind the Holms, and were towed round to the harbour by the steam fishing vessel “Staghound” of Hull. This act of kindness is worthy of recognition as it was unsolicited.

During the afternoon noon intelligence reached here that the Tern, of Stroma, had become a total wreck in the Bay of Skaill, but the crew got safely on shore, and saved a good part of their effects. About 3 p.m. the boat Fiery Cross, BF. 359, of Cullen, arrived here and reported the loss of the skipper, Alexander Findlay (Den). This boat broke away from her drift of nets about 12 miles off the land, north from Hoy Sound. The boat was then put before the wind and the mast set, and the crew were in the act of getting the sail ready when the boat broached to the wind. The skipper put his helm up when a heavy sea struck the boat and carried him overboard. The accident was not observed by the crew until he was some thirty yards to leeward. Lines were then thrown and every effort made to save him, but without success. He was seen swimming a few minutes in the direction of the boat, which could render no assistance, though the crew saw him sink only a short distance away. The accident was also witnessed by a Wick boat alongside, but it was powerless to help. For a time the crew were at a loss what to do for their own safety, as the boat was helpless with water and almost on her beam ends. One of the crew was then lashed to the helm, the boat got before the wind and the water pumped out, after which the smallest sail possible was set to the gale. Several heavy seas were shipped, and at times they thought the boat would sink, but with careful and skilful handling she reached Stromness about 3 p.m. The skipper leaves a wife and seven of a family, two of whom were on board the boat with their father, viz., John Findlay, (Den), aged 20 years; and Alexander Findlay, jr., aged 14 years.

During Wednesday evening news reached here that a Wick boat had been lost at Ramlageo, near the Bay of Skaill, and that all hands had perished. This report was afterwards confirmed, and the boat proved to be the Douglas. WK. 202. A boat which arrived during the afternoon reported passing a boat in a dangerous position near the Black Craig, and a few gossips soon circulated the report that a boat had been lost there. We can now positively assert that a boat was not lost near the Black Craig, and the one seen in a dangerous position there is proved to have been the Moray Lass, INS. 786, James Flett, skipper. This boat was making for Hoy Sound, but seemed afraid of getting in, and lowered the sail to put about, when the yard broke, and threw a man overboard. His name is Main, and he leaves five of a family, all young, his wife having died only two months ago. With great difficulty the boat was got off the land, and run for the Westray Firth, and, accompanied by The Brothers, WK. 954, reached Sanday in safety.

On Thursday all the Iocal boats were reported safe, with the exception of one, and it was supposed she had gone to Westray. The same day Captain G. Baillie, hon. Secretary for the National Lifeboat Institution, engaged the steam fishing vessel Staghound to make a search for any disabled boats. After steaming for several hours she reported finding the stem or apron of a large boat, supposed to be that of the Douglas, WK 202, and a new serge coat, made by John McLeod, clothier, Govan.

On Friday intelligence was received that the boat Maggie, K 234, had been lost in the Westray Firth, and that all hands had perished. This boat was found bottom up, with mast broken, drifting with the tide. She carried a crew of seven hands, all belonging to the island of Walls. Their names are – John Manson, skipper; Malcolm Robertson, married, leaves a wife and six of a family; John Johnston, married, leaves a wife and two of a family; Samuel Stout, unmarried; Alexander Swanson, unmarried; William Robertson, unmarried; and a lad named John Thomson, about 17 years of age. Much sympathy is felt in town for the relatives of the crew, all of whom were known in Stromness.

The gale is described as the most severe ever experienced at this season of the year, and fishermen state that for some time it blew with hurricane force. The loss of life in this neighbourhood is estimated at 27 souls, which includes the crew of the boat Maggie, Douglas, and two crews in the Pentland Firth. The loss of nets is very great, and will represent a total of several hundred pounds.

Our Longhope correspondent writes: – On the morning of Wednesday last a terrific storm broke out here from the South and West, causing much damage to crops. The night previous the wind set in from South-east with heavy rain. Thus it continued more or less up till 4 o’clock in the morning, when the rain ceased, and the wind came in still more fitful gusts, showing every sign of becoming a gale. Towards six o’clock it veered to westward with still increasing fury, and continued up till nearly 9 o’clock with terrible force. Afterwards it wore in more north-westerly, when it moderated slightly. During the time of its full strength, the large sheets of spray could be seen going over the neighbouring islands, forming themselves into frantic semi-circles of sea drift as they left the shores. The crops on the west and south-west sides of all the islands – notably that of Cava and Brims – have suffered serious injury. Looking at them now, after a few days of sunshine, the fields present a pale, white appearance, with but meagre signs of returning growth and colour. The crops in general, are blighted and pale looking. It is feared the harvest will be three weeks later than it otherwise would have been. Potatoes have probably suffered most of any crop. The beautiful fresh sproutings are quite frizzled up. Indeed everywhere around, both in garden and field, one can see symptoms of decay such as the oldest inhabitant in the island has not seen before at this season of the year.

While we are briefly noting the damage done to the prospects of agriculture through the storm, we cannot forget to Iook at a still more disastrous view, namely, its effect upon the fishing. Further news has just reached us confirming the report about the ill-fated boat Maggie, belonging to Longhope. It appears she got under way about 4 o’clock that morning, and bore north from west of Stromness. She rounded Birsay and Rousay in company with some other boat or boats, and was last seen running upon a skerry in Westray Firth, where she became a total wreck, and all hands perished. The names of the ill-fated crew are as follows: – John Manson (skipper), Stoop, Longhope, unmarried; Malcolm Robertson, Myre, leaves a widow and six children; John Johnston, Towerhouse, married, leaves a widow and two children; Samuel Stout, Misbister, unmarried; Alex. Swanson, Burnhouse, unmarried; Wm. Robertson, Myre, unmarried; John Thompson, Bownstown, unmarried. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved relatives. It has cast a gloom over the whole island.

An act of heroism was performed during the gale on Wednesday by some people belonging to Flotta which deserves to be recorded. Whilst the gale was at its height two Sutherland boats from the parish of Farr were seen driving through the Pentland Firth in the ebb, one not able to carry even its mast, and steering by chains, whilst the other was labouring heavily under the corner of a sail. When the boats got to Switha they cast anchor in a very unsafe place, and threw up signals of distress to the people on the hill of Flotta. The spectators saw that when the tide turned the boats would be in great danger, and gallantly set about organising a crew to go to the rescue. The best boat available was an open yawl, and in this frail craft six men took their places and plunged right round the Cave of Banks, which lies on the edge of the Pentland Firth, and succeeded in boarding one of the unfortunate boats. Thomas Norquoy, who had command of the Flotta boat, urged the strangers to run for Holm Sound but they represented that they were unable to do so without assistance, whereupon Norquoy took command of one of the boats, the Unity, and got it safely into Holm, the other following in its wake. The Unity had lost its iron man, dandy mast, and eight nets. The men reported that they had never been in such a heavy sea, and that the boat was frequently submerged…..


1890 July 9 Orkney Herald

THE RECENT GALE. – It is now known that the summer gale of 25th June has involved the loss of fifty-one lives. Orkney has contributed seven to the death-roll, and the rest of the list is mainly made up from Caithness and Sutherland. It is needless to say that many widows and orphans are now cast on the world, and must be dependent, at least for some time to come, on the benevolence of the public. In Caithness a movement is already on foot to gather a fund for the sufferers, and we believe that in Orkney a similar course will be taken. It is not for us to suggest to philanthropic people how they should dispense their charity, but it may be said that there is a growing public opinion to the effect that a permanent fund should be established in Orkney in order adequately to cope with the calamities which, with a seafaring population, must grimly be reckoned upon. It is unfortunately too true that Shetland has not persuaded the public in favour of such a course, but we think that the experiment might be tried in Orkney in the full confidence of a judicious administration of any fund that might be forthcoming.


1890 July 16 Orkney Herald

SUPPOSED DASTARDLY OUTRAGE IN ORKNEY. – What is believed to be a barbarous outrage on lamb animals, committed in a spirit of revenge, is reported from Rousay. Mr George Swanson, grieve of Trumland farm, reported to General Burroughs on Saturday evening, that on visiting the Holm of Scockness, where he had been to inspect the sheep, he found to his horror that twenty-one Blackfaces had been shut up in a shelter-house, and that four of the number were dead. They had been imprisoned, apparently, for many days without food or water, and the number stated had died of starvation, while the remainder are seriously injured from the same cause. It is believed that the affair is the outcome of a cruel and fiendish joke. The door of the shelter-house was closed, and the sheep could not get in of their own accord. It is supposed that two or three persons with a sheep dog – for Blackfaced sheep are at any time ill to drive – must have had a hand in the matter, and suspicion is already directed to certain quarters. A similar action was once before perpetrated, but the sheep were liberated before any harm was done to them.


1890 August 20 Orkney Herald

SPORT IN ROUSAY. – At Trumland shooting, Rousay, General Burroughs, Cluny Macpherson, and Sir J. F. Lawson, had on Wednesday last in five hours 16 brace of grouse, 1½ couple of snipe, 2 hares, and 6 rabbits. The day was bright and warm, with the wind from the South East. Coveys of 5, 8, and 10 birds were seen. There is of course no disease. There were some barren pairs. Birds were generally strong and very fat, the heaviest grouse weighing 1lb. 10 oz. The following angling record (for one or two rods for a short time on each occasion) may be cited from Rousay: – May 23rd, fish caught 11, weight 5½lbs.; June 2nd, 11, 10lbs.; 11th, 23, 12lbs.; July 2nd, 31, 15½lbs.; 3rd, 29, 8¾lbs.; 14th, 19, 9½lbs.; 17th 10, 6¼lbs.; 19th, 9, 5½lbs.; 26th, 12, 6½lbs.; 31st, 6, 9¼lbs.; August 11th, 5, 3½lbs.


1890 September 3 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY REGATTA. – On Wednesday last the annual regatta of the Rousay and Veira Boat Club took place in Veira Sound. The weather was exceptionally favourable for such an event, and the number of entries was in excess of previous years. General Burroughs’ Sigurd, owing to the numerous party on board and light wind, was unable to sail as well as usual; but under the circumstances did remarkably well. The Daphne (Sheriff Armour) was seen somewhat at a disadvantage by the breaking of the topsail yard, but easily obtained the second prize. In the second race the Julia was hindered greatly by an outside boat tacking on her starboard side part of the way, but easily won second prize. The interest taken in the rowing races was very great, especially in the boys’ race, which was keenly contested. The committee take this opportunity of thanking the numerous friends who contributed so liberally to the funds of the club. The prizes were kindly distributed by Mrs Burroughs. Sheriff Armour congratulated the Rousay and Veira Boat Club on their success, and proposed three cheers for Mrs Burroughs, and for the committee of the club who had conducted the arrangements so well. Annexed is the prize list: –

Sailing Race. For boats 25 feet and under. – 1, Annie, John Logie; 2, Daphne, Sheriff Armour; 3, Walrus, Alfred Leask.
Sailing Race. For boats 16 feet and under. – 1, Mary, William Costie; 2, Julia, William Corsie.
All Comers’ Race For boats 25 feet and under. – 1, Annie, John Logie; 2, Daphne, Sheriff Armour; 3, Walrus, Alfred Leask.
Rowing Race (one man). – 1, Thomas Isbister; 2, John Harrold.
Boys’ Rowing Race. – 1, Craigie and Reid; 2, Harrold and Swanson; 3, Dunbar and Keen; 4, Logie and Reid.


1890 September 24 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – The friends and well-wishers of Mr Wilson, headmaster in Sourin Public School, Rousay, will be glad to learn that he has received an appointment as headmaster to a large and important school near St Andrews, Fifeshire.


1890 October 1 Orkney Herald

AGRICULTURAL. – The weather during the first half of the past month was fine, and very suitable for the ripening of the crops. Several farmers commenced cutting oats about the middle of the month, but it was not until the beginning of last week that reaping became general. Since Friday last the weather has been very wet and stormy, but until Monday not much damage had been done to the crop, about one-half of which has been cut. The crop is somewhat irregular – short on some fields and heavy on others – but altogether there appears a fairly good average of both oats and straw. Grass has grown well all month, and the pastures, although now getting bare, still look very green. Stock are still out all day, but are getting a supper of green oats at night…..

ORKNEY SCHOOL REPORTS. – Appended are H.M. Inspector’s reports on the undernoted schools:- …..

SOURIN PUBLIC SCHOOL, ROUSAY. – Under the great disadvantage of very irregular and intermittent attendance the school has passed, on the whole, a creditable examination. Reading all over is pretty fluent, but both in this branch and in recitation there is considerable room for improvement in respect of style and natural expression. Penmanship shows some taste in copy books and in the written exercises of the upper standards, but nicety of finish and beauty of formation are wanting in the slate-writing and figuring of the junior classes. Arithmetic of the first and second are very good indeed, but weakness in this branch is too general in the upper standards. Grammar has been very successfully taught, but the higher grant for English cannot be recommended until some taste and style are shown in the recitation exercise. In geography and history the answering should be more general, and not so much confined to a few of the brightest scholars. Singing from note was very successfully done on the whole, but more practice in time tests is desirable. Sewing is very good, and order is excellent. The scholar numbered 49 on the examination schedule is disqualified under B 1 (a). J. Marwick has passed well. Average attendance, 48; grant earned, £47.

WASBISTER PUBLIC SCHOOL, ROUSAY. – Mr Horne has made a very promising beginning in this school. With the exception of the dictation of the third standard, which shows considerable weakness, standard work has been done with complete accuracy, and is on the whole, of very good quality. Reading is fluent, but admits of improvement in respect of grouping of words and phrases and expression. The written exercises executed on the day of inspection are very fairly neat and careful, but copy-writing should be firmer and more uniform in style. The blackboard should be largely used to teach the proper formation of letters. Arithmetic all over is without a failure, and most of the passes are good. The third and fourth standards made a remarkably good appearance in class subjects. In English general intelligence had been very brightly drawn out. The third standard answered exceptionally well in geography. In the fifth the answering in class subjects was good by the few pupils who had been in regular attendance. Very fair work had been done in the specific subjects professed. The lower class showed efficient training. The three pupils in the class corresponding to the second standard were able to do the work of the third. In the first slate-writing should be neater. An effort should be made to teach singing by note. Industrial work receives careful attention. The sewing schedule is creditably worked up to. The higher grant has been recommended for discipline, but the pupils should show greater power of concentration when under examination. D. M. Leonard’s name has been removed from the list of pupil teachers serving in this school. Average attendance, 35; grant earned, (inclusive of £10 under Article 19 D), £49 15s.

FROTOFT PUBLIC SCHOOL, ROUSAY. – The school, as a whole, has made a pretty fair appearance, although the results are somewhat uneven. Spelling is decidedly weak in the fourth standard, and arithmetic in the fifth and sixth. Reading shows considerable improvement since last year, and in the case of the pupils who had been in regular attendance was very fairly fluent and intelligently grouped. Handwriting, both on copy-books and in the exercises worked on the day of visit should be firmer and more even in style. In the class subject of English the work done was not more than fair. Grammar needs considerable bracing up, and repetition must show more taste and expression before the higher grant can be recommended. The answering in geography and history was generally very good. The infants and lower classes had evidently received careful training, but spelling is somewhat weak in the class corresponding to the second standard, and arithmetic should be readier. Abundant drill in adding and subtracting should be given on the blackboard. I should like to see slate-writing and figuring neater and letter formed at this stage. The higher grant has been recommended for singing, but next year a fuller satisfaction of the time and ear tests will be looked for. Industrial work is of very good quality and merits special praise. The meagre and scrappy manuals of geography and history in the hands of the higher standards cannot be accepted as second readers. Rule 6. Section c, of the official regulations regarding registration has not been attended to, and numerous erasures appear in the summations of the daily attendance register. The registration rules must be strictly adhered to in future (Article 32 b.) J. Craigie has passed fairly, but should attend to map-drawing, writing and spelling. No payment can be made under Article 19 (e) for him, as he is not required by Article 32 (c) 1. Average attendance, 42; grant earned, £57 13s (inclusive of £15 under Article 19 D.)


1890 October 8 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND HIS CROFTERS.

Sir, – A misleading article on the subject of some correspondence published in its pages, having appeared in The Orcadian of this date, painting me as an oppressor, whereas I consider myself as the oppressed person, will you permit we to state my case in the next issue of your paper?

The article alluded to represents me in the light of a “Pharo,” a moral monster, for refusing to assist certain crofters in Rousay in building new houses. Why, under the circumstances, I ask should I do so? Would Mr A. Thomson, who it would appear by the writer of the article is regarded in the light of a “Moses,” although I fail to see the simile – would he, or would the writer of the article himself do so were they in my place? If they would, there is now a grand opportunity for putting their preaching into practice, for there is plenty of land in Orkney for sale with a crofter population on it, and I would suggest to Mr A. Thomson, and his would-be philanthropic friends, that they should form a syndicate and buy such land, and at their own expense do what they find fault with me for not doing. It might be an appropriate, although probably not a profitable investment for the money Mr A. Thomson has lately netted from the crofters.

My case is this – Some 1900 acres of my land in Rousay have teen forcibly taken from me without compensation, and have been handed over to a class of persons who have no more just right to it than has any reader of this newspaper. These people are called crofters, and my land has been handed over to them and to their heirs and successors for ever, so long as they choose to continue to pay for it a rent below its market value, and fixed by the Crofter Commission – a Commission consisting of three men who, contrary to all law until recently in force in Britain, have been invested with the despotic power of a Czar of Russia, and the infallibility of the Pope of Rome, and against whose unjust decrees there is no appeal! And at the mercy of these three men have been placed the reputation, and the estates of landowners in the so called “Crofting Counties” of Scotland.

Certain so-called Crofters in Rousay came before this Commission, and represented themselves as being in indigent circumstances, and unable to pay the rent they had agreed to pay for their holdings, and which they had paid for years.

One of these, Peter Yorston, rents from me the lands of Oldman and Eastaquoy, in the district of Sourin, in the island of Rousay, measuring according to the Ordinance Survey acres arable, 20.010, and acres pasture, 22.895; in all, 42.905 acres, on which he keeps 5 shorthorn or polled cross cattle, and 4 Leicester crossed sheep. His rent was £10 10s. It was reduced by the Commission to £7 10s, and £4 4s of arrears of rent were forgiven him. The buildings were on the farm in 1848 – 42 years ago, when I succeeded to this estate on the death of my grand uncle, the late Mr G. W. Trail!.

Another of these, John Inkster, rents from me the lands of Swartafield in Sourin, Rousay, measuring acres arable 6.729, and pasture 13.817; in all acres 20.556, on which he keeps 3 shorthorn or polled cross cattle, and 2 Leicester crossed sheep. His rent was £6. It was reduced by the Commission to £4 12s, and £3 of arrears were forgiven. The buildings were on this farm in 1848.

Both are fishers and keep poultry.

These indigent individuals, who, before the Commission, made out that they were too poor to pay their rent, as soon as they have succeeded in getting it reduced, and in obtaining fixity of tenure, their poverty is soon forgotten, and they set about pulling down the existing buildings and erecting new ones on my land without consulting me; and without my permission they take stone from my quarries to do this; and when expostulated with, a grown-up son of John Inkster tells my ground-officer, whom I had sent to him, that he will continue to take as much as he wants. And I am told that a triumphal procession of some ten carts laden with my stone was seen proceeding from the quarry.

Neighbouring proprietors are restrained by law from making free with one another’s property. Are crofters to be placed above all law?

No Government has any just right to set aside the teaching of the Decalogue, which says, “Thou shalt not steal.” Nor has any Government any just right to seize upon the property of its loyal and law-abiding subjects without giving due compensation in return.

My land – for it is still so called, and I have to pay rates and taxes on it, as before said – has been forcibly taken from me and has been made over in perpetuity to others at a rent below its market value. As my tenants, circumstances between us were on a different footing, but being now practically independent of me why should I be called upon still further to contribute to the support of those to whom it has been thus handed over? If compelled to do so by Government I can not resist, but I will not cease to protest against the injustice.

If the front door of any of my would-be philanthropic detractors was to be burst open and stolen from their houses, would they further permit their goods and chattels to be plundered? or would they not rather adopt all legal means for securing the rest of their property? From my knowledge of them I have no doubt but that they would adopt all means in their power for protecting themselves from further loss, and if so why should I be debarred from doing likewise?

If it is considered necessary for the national welfare to revolutionise the present system of land tenure under which British agriculture has attained to its preeminence in the world, and to try the experiment of a peasant proprietary, it should be undertaken at the public cost and not at the cost of one class of the community only. And supposing a peasant proprietary to be established, is no such proprietor to be permitted to buy and sell land as has been done since the world began to be peopled? If so permitted the possessions of some will increase and of others diminish, and matters will ere long revert to their present order. – I am. &c., – F. BURROUGHS. – Rousay, 4th Oct. 1890.


1890 October 15 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND HIS CROFTERS

SIR, – The land question is again to the front in your midst, as it seems the laird of Rousay and his tenants are determined to keep up the notoriety they have already attained. The letter which appeared in the Herald of last week from the General shows at once to an outsider the reason of the whole affair, and, really, instead of calling the laird names, his case should rather excite our sympathy. Some scientists tell us that all things relating to man’s physical and mental nature can be explained by the terms heredity and environment. General Burroughs is simply a victim to these. By birth a landlord, and by training a soldier, he has hitherto been unable to rise above the accident of birth, and the surroundings of his education and his profession, so that all his duties and those of his fellowmen are only viewed from these standpoints. The landlord point of view is brought out specially in his letter by the use of the little word my – my land, my quarries, my tenants. Doubtless he would be highly indignant were any person to tell him that he was a law-breaker, but none the less it is true, in his denunciation of the Crofters Commission, for they have not exceeded the powers of the law under which they were appointed, but in his dealings with those who take advantage of its provision, the General has done a good deal In spirit, if not in the letter, to nullify the action of that commission. In this we dare not blame him much, for if he is convinced that the law Is unjust, it is his duty to do all that is in his power legitimately to modify its provisions, and to get it repeated. But unfortunately for the class to which he belongs, and of which he is a “burning and a shining light,” viz., that of landlords, there is an ever increasing number of other classes which look upon the land question from a very different standpoint. They deny, as a matter of the deepest moment, the right of any man to claim the absolute ownership of land as represented by the personal pronoun my. The General quotes the word law very often in his letter, so we presume he has some knowledge of it, he will therefore know that neither English nor Scotch law recognises the ownership of land, in the absolute sense, that it does of other kinds of property. Very likely it is because of the law of entail that the General is the landlord of Rousay. Suppose, for example, that in the exercise of his right as absolute owner, the General took it in his head to break all the chairs in his sitting rooms, no person would say he has not the right of acting thus, although they would doubtless call him a fool for such conduct, but let him take it in his head to clear all the people off his land, and very soon he would be interfered with. It is by losing sight of this difference in ownership of land and other commodities, that landlords, as a class, run their heads against the growing conviction of the community, and even the law of the land. As has so often been pointed out everything that is born into this world must have as a necessity of life, air to breathe, water to drink, and the earth or the land on which to dwell. This being granted, the moment one man or a number of men say this piece of land is mine, the same as they would say of the watches which they may carry in their pockets, then they arrogate to themselves the right of saying to their fellow beings whether they shall live on their land or not. It is the many living by sufferance of the few. There can be no doubt that if landlords will insist on their view of the matter as absolute owners of the land, that they will bring the land question into the region of practical politics, but if they have sense enough to read the signs of the times, and recognise that they have other responsibilities than mere collectors of rents, that their tenants are also human beings like unto themselves in their origin and destiny, and act accordingly, then the land question will not be much disturbed for a long time. It is worse than useless for the General to think and act as if his tenants were a regiment of soldiers, whose duty was obedience to his word of command. Civilisation imbued with the spirit of the Great Teacher, who taught the Fatherhood of God, and therefore the brotherhood of man, is too far advanced for the continuance of such imperialism, where men stand on an equal footing in the sight of heaven, not indeed in mental ability or force of character, but in their essential manhood which pertains to all. – I am. &c., JAMES NICHOLSON – Leith, Oct. 12th, 1890


1890 October 22 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND HIS CROFTERS.

SIR, – I am not acquainted with Gen. Burroughs’ grievance against your contemporary, not having seen the issue referred to and finding no statement, “misleading” or otherwise, contradicted by the General in his letter in your last issue. Said letter is, however, such an extravagant exhibition of intolerance and jingoism that it does not deserve to pass unanswered. In the first place he has a sneer at Mr Thomson on account of the money he has “netted from the crofters.” A sufficient comment on this is the fact the crofters were driven to buy legal advice from Mr Thomson and others simply by the exorbitant rack renting of Gen. Burroughs and his class. The doughty warrior next runs a tilt at the Crofters’ Commission, whom he compares for despotic power to the Czar of Russia. The gallant gentleman has an excuse for feeling wroth at the Commissioners and he gives evidence of where he has felt their hand heaviest, viz., in pocket, in power, and in reputation. But for their appointment he would himself have been able to revel in “the despotic power of a Czar of Russia and the infallibility of a Pope of Rome” – as far at least as Rousay was concerned – but “Ichabad” may now be written on his banner; his glory has departed. He talks glibly of “my land,” “my quarries,” &c. Perhaps he will inform us on what grounds he bases so absolute a claim? Did he acquire the land by gift or purchase from the maker thereof, or did he create it for himself? Did he or his ancestors do this or did they even make the land what it is to-day? Did they by the sweat of their brow reclaim it from bog and heath and make it fertile and fruit-bearing? Did they not rather hinder by tax and imposition those who did this good work? Did they not, as every year’s work brought additional fertility, add to the burdensome rent laid on the industrious toiler? Perhaps when the General prates of unjust law he will say whether he considers the law that allowed such oppression a just one? Was it not by mere accident of birth that the land came into the possession of Gen. Burroughs, and had he been born a crofter would he have been contented to toil and moil for an unsympathetic class who “toil not neither do they spin,” and yet expect to reap the fat by the toil of others? Does the gallant General believe that the land was created for what he dignifies with the title of “a class of the community?” Community forsooth! he knoweth not the meaning of the word. Community is opposed to all class. It means people having common rights; a modest claim that can have no attraction for such as Gen. Burroughs. The General forgets that the land was created for the men who were created to live by it, and that it really was intended that it should belong to a community of mankind, and such claims as are based on any other foundation are, like the claim of the General himself, merely based on arrogance and assumption. – Yours, &c., – ST CLAIR OF THE ISLES. Glasgow, 11th Oct. 1890.

_____________________

SIR, – Referring to the letter by General Burroughs in the Orkney Herald of 8th inst., I have to ask the favour of your allowing me space for a reply thereto. The first two paragraphs I pass over with the single remark that the crofters in question did not ask any help from General Burroughs in rebuilding their humble dwellings; their past experience forbade all hope of such aid. He complains bitterly that his land has been taken from him, and handed over to “these people called crofters” – and to their heirs and successors for ever. Hence his present position. The land being gone, he is determined to stick to the stones. Land, elsewhere than in Rousay, always includes stones, but this is only a minor peculiarity of the rights of property in the island. He refers to the former rents paid by the crofters as rents which they had agreed to pay. That, as regards Rousay, is not an accurate statement. In these “agreements” the crofters had the extensive option of “Hobson’s choice.” The rent was raised arbitrarily by the landlord, and they were told that they must either pay it or go. It was matter for congratulation that even this latter alternative was open to them; and that, too, although in going they suffered confiscation of their improvements.

It is not true that they came before the Crofters Commission representing themselves as being in indigent circumstances. They came before the Commission in the exercise of a legal right, and seeking the protection of an Act of Parliament which had been expressly passed to shackle extortionate landlordism. The financial result of these applications showed that the crofters had been charged a rent 28½ per cent. in excess of what was a fair rent for their holdings, but the financial result was not the only one. The fixity of tenure is the great boon of the Act, and operates in Rousay as an Act of Emancipation.

The crofters, realising that improvements now executed upon their holdings are protected against confiscation, have a stimulus to develop the resources of their crofts and to make their homes more comfortable. To this the General unwillingly bears testimony. He states that, under the fixity of tenure, their poverty is soon forgotten, and that they set about pulling down old buildings and erecting new ones. Manifestly the Act is accomplishing its object even in Rousay. Resolute vigour is inherent in the Norse character, and the crofters of Rousay, who are quick to realise their protection against aggressive landlordism, may be trusted to bring up their crofts to the maximum of fertility and production, both to their own advantage and to the general benefit of their country.

The crofter, Peter Yorston, referred to, expended £60 on buildings, and has since erected a barn entirely at his own charges. He has also drained, reclaimed, and improved his land. He was rewarded for his expense and industry in 1879 by having his rent arbitrarily raised from £5 to £8. He has also lately been threatened with both civil and criminal prosecution if he dares to take stones, either from his own croft or elsewhere on the estate, for the purpose of further draining and improving his land.

Robert Inkster, the other crofter referred to, has occupied the croft for 48 years. He has reclaimed two-thirds of the land, and built the whole buildings on the holding all entirely at his own expense. He has been compensated as follows, viz,: – In 1864 his rent was raised from £1 5s to £3; in 1872 to £5 (an acre of land being added); and in 1879 to £6. The General remarks that he is a fisherman and keeps poultry. I think it right to explain that Inkster, who is evidently expected by the General to earn something by fishing, is only 80 years of age.

General Burroughs falls into one or two errors, probably due to the acumen of his ground-officer. John Inkster has not a grown-up son. He is childless.

The so-called triumphal procession of carts consisted of nine carts – not ten, as alleged – carting from the shore to Swartafield slate or flag, which had been imported from Westray at the expense of the crofter. Strange though it may seem, stones in that island are free.

Rather a good story has been told to me apropos of the General’s veto on the quarrying of stones. Munro, who succeeded the former ground-officer Reid – Sheriff Nicolson’s “Minion of a bloated aristocracy” – seems to be a worthy successor to the said “minion.” Having discovered that a cart had been at the quarry for stones, he concluded it was Inkster’s (Inkster has a mare only). Munro carefully inspected the footprints, but, much to his disgust, could not tell whether they had been made by a horse or a mare. He thus failed in his function of sleuthhound, leaving the laird no resource but to fall back on his old friends the police.

The one feature of the letter is the original tip to thieves. I think I may take it that the autocrat of Rousay is the first man who ever suggested that a thief should break into a house in order to steal the front door – but then of course, he is peculiar.

The “Czar” or “Pope” of Rousay evidently considers that the parchment containing his title to the island carries with it the right to control the whole destinies of the inhabitants. Left behind in the march of progress and civilization, one could have no feeling but that of pity for the victim of such a delusion, did not the rights of other parties intervene. As proprietor he is invested with a certain power, a power which elsewhere is not only balanced by a sense of responsibility and humanity, but is exercised in accordance with law. In his case, unfortunately, considerations of equity and justice are discarded, and a deliberate attempt is made to defeat an enactment of the Legislature. Considering that the General draws a pension from the Legislature, being retained as a sort of first-class policeman to aid in securing observance of the law, he is hardly consistent in drawing his pension and at the same time attempting to defeat the law and revile his pensioners.

Crofters may, however, contemplate the position with satisfaction. Stones will be procured and their houses will be built. The impotency of the laird will be exposed, and the cause of land law reform materially benefited. – I am, &c.,      X.


1890 October 29 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND HIS CROFTERS

SIR, – Your two correspondents, “St Clair of the Isles” and “X,” ought to feel relieved after getting rid of so much “gas.” It might have been as well, however, if they had written – if they must write at all on a subject in which they have only a remote interest – in a more temperate fashion. The proprietor of Rousay may not have been well-advised in the action he took with regard to the matter under discussion; but no one – not even the fiery “St Clair of the Isles” – has ventured to assert that he went beyond his legal right. “St Clair” – he must excuse me for abbreviating his grandiloquent nom de plume – seems very angry because General Burroughs writes of the land as his land; and asks a number of questions, which would be impertinent were it not for his obvious ignorance, as to how the General came by it. Well, sir, to answer the last question first, he came by it, as four-fifths of the owners of land in this country came by their possessions, by inheritance. Then as to the land being his, there cannot be a doubt of that. It is just as much his now as it was before the passing of the Crofters Act. True, he has, owing to the operation of that Act, to a certain extent lost control of certain portions of his estate; but that does not affect his proprietorship. “St Clair” speaks sneeringly of the “accident of birth.” Does he mean to say that if by the “accident of birth” he had owned Rousay he would have been prepared to give the crofters their holdings on their own terms? I think it is a pity that writers on this subject should write so much “at large.” The Crofters Act has undoubtedly imposed great hardship on a number of proprietors, and a little indignation on their part is not unnatural, and ought to be borne with. Time will tone down this feeling, and by and by friction will cease. While I write in this strain I am far from denying that in past times many landlords have looked too much to their rights, and too little to their obligations, in their estate management. The Crofters Act was a necessity – more’s the pity. – Yours, &c., L.


1890 November 5 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SOCIAL TEA AND ENTERTAINMENT. – The members of the Scotch Girls’ Friendly Society, resident in Rousay and Viera, were entertained to tea on Friday evening of last week, by Mrs Burroughs, at Trumland House. Although the night was stormy yet the girls were forward in full muster, a large proportion of the girls in Rousay and Viera being members of the Society. The meeting was held in the billiard-room of Trumland House, and Mrs Burroughs, who is president of the Orkney branch, presided, and gave a very appropriate address. Miss Ewbank, of Westness House, an associate of the society, also addressed the girls. Thereafter a happy evening was spent in song, recitation, and an exhibition of pictures by means of a magic lantern. One of the most enjoyable features of the entertainment was the presentation of a marriage brooch, bearing the initial letters of the Society, and a neatly framed card, to one of the members, whilst several members received each a card and florin piece as a reward for three consecutive years’ service in one place. These were gifts from Mrs Burroughs. The Scotch Girls’ Friendly Society has its head-quarters in Edinburgh, with branches all over the country, and Lady Aberdeen is at the head of the organisation. Lodging homes for several girls, and convalescent homes for those who may be sick are maintained in the large cities. These must prove a great boon to servant girls who are members of the Society when they leave Orkney in search of service in the south. Towards the maintenance of these homes each girl contributes sixpence annually.


1890 November 12 Orkney Herald

A LOCAL DISPUTE ABOUT A SEWING MACHINE. – At a sitting of the Orkney Sheriff Court held yesterday at Kirkwall, before Sheriff Armour, an action was brought by the Singer Manufacturing Company against John Gibson, Hurtiso, Sourin, Rousay, for the recovery of £5 17s, the price of a sewing machine got by the defender from the pursuers, and for which payment had not been made. After hearing evidence, the Sheriff gave a verdict in favour of the pursuers, and ordered the sewing machine to be returned. No costs were allowed.

AN UNFORTUNATE ROUSAY CROFTER. – Robert Inkster, crofter, Swartifield, Rousay, with respect to whom a good deal of public interest has recently been excited, in consquence of the correspondence that has been published regarding the dispute between his agent and the proprietor of Rousay (General Burroughs) about stones for a new house – has got his house built and nearly finished, having had to flit into his barn during the building operations. It seems that the old man, who is about 80 years of age, was going in with a cazy of peats, and when he was just entering the door the roof of the barn fell in. The old man was not much hurt. but he got a severe fright. The occupants had to flit back to the new building in its unfinished state. Some of the cooking utensils got smashed up.


1890 December 10 Orkney Herald

SAILINGS FOR DECEMBER

ROUSAY, EVIE AND RENDALL STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY (LIMITED)

The Steamship LIZZIE BURROUGHS, Built expressly for the Trade, will Sail
as follows, wind, weather and circumstances permitting:-

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS
Leave Egilshay……….at 8 a.m.
Trumland Pier…………at 9 a.m.
Calling at Weir, Evie, Tingwall, Gairsay,
and Rendall Point. For Kirkwall.

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS
From Kirkwall at………..10.30 a.m.
NOTE. – The Company reserve the power to call at
any special Port when necessary.

FARES
To and from Kirkwall and the different Places of call:
CABIN……..1s 6d.  DECK……1s.
No Return Tickets Issued.
W, COOPER, manager.


1890 December 24 Orkney Herald

DECISION OF ROUSAY CROFTER CASES. – It will be remembered that General Burroughs presented a petition in the Orkney Sheriff Court recently to have certain of the crofters in Rousay interdicted from quarrying stones on the estate of Rousay and Veira. Sheriff Armour has now issued interlocutors in both cases. In the action against Mrs Betty Sinclair or Craigie and William Grieve, he has found for defenders with expenses. In the other, that against the Inksters, he has granted perpetual interdict, and found them liable in expenses.


1890 December 31 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY, EVIE AND RENDALL STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY (LIMITED). – The twelfth report by the directors to the shareholders, was submitted at a meeting of this company held in Kirkwall yesterday, and was as follows:- The directors regret to have to point out that the balance, as at 30th June 1890, is against the company. The Inspector of the Board of Trade having reported that the steamer Lizzie Burroughs required to be repaired, the vessel was sent to Aberdeen, and was off the passage from 24th May 1890 to 4th June 1890. At Aberdeen it was generally overhauled in the shipbuilding yard of Messrs Hall, Russell, & Co., whose account therefore amounted to some £116. This sum, the directors are glad to be able to announce, has (Dec. 1890) since been paid. The directors are also glad to state that a marked improvement in the affairs of the company has resulted since its seat of management has been transferred to Kirkwall, and the management has been placed in the hands of Mr William Cooper, shipping agent, who, from his knowledge of shipping business, and being on the spot, has been able to put trade in the way of the vessel. The directors have adopted further means for simplifying and economising the business transactions of the company, with regard to the ordering of stores and the collection of fares and freights. Complaints have been made of unpunctuality of the steamer’s arrival at and departure from ports of call, and the length of time passed on the voyage from the beginning to its end. This is occasioned by the many stoppages made by the steamer at places where there are no piers. Stoppages at such places are productive of great loss of time and fuel, and wear and tear of the company’s property; and they also entail much extra work upon the crew. In the best interests of the public, as well as of the shareholder, they should be as few as the public convenience will admit of. The inhabitants of the east coast of the west mainland cannot adequately derive the full benefits of regular steam communication until a pier is erected at the most suitable point on that coast.

ROUSAY – CONCERT. – The annual Christmas concert of the Rousay Mutual Improvement Guild was held in Wasbister Public School on Thursday evening. The president, Mr James Gibson Craigie, occupied the chair. The audience was large and appreciative, and the school-room was tastefully decorated. The programme was large and varied, and several of the items were deservedly encored. The singing was very good, and the choruses were well sustained. The comic element was well represented and the several parts were well performed. Mr John Gibson, Langskaill, delivered a very interesting and edifying speech. Throughout the programme was well received. After the usual votes of thanks were accorded, “God Save the Queen” was sung, and the meeting dispersed.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1889

1889 January 16 Orkney Herald

ORKNEY SHERIFF COURT.

GENERAL BURROUGHS’ CROFTERS.

THE NEW RENTS.

At the instance of Major-General Burroughs, William Work, Breval, and seven other crofters in Rousay, were summoned for rent and instalments of arrears due at Martinmas last as from the preceding Whitsunday. The point in dispute was whether the fair rents fixed by the Crofters Commissioners, or the old rents, should obtain during the period mentioned. The form of account attached to the summons served on Work was: – “To rent of croft for half-year to Martinmas, 1888, £3 10s; to first instalment of arrears of rent payable in terms of the order by the Crofters Commission, dated 28th September, £2 10s – total £6.” The other defenders, who had presented to them a similar summons were, Mrs Craigie or Grieve, Clumpy; John Marwick, Midgarth; James Grieve, Standcroon; Mrs Isabella Marwick, Grain; William Louttit, Digro; Craigie Marwick, Breck; and Mary Ann Craigie, Myres. The summons only against Work was taken up, it being agreed to regard it as a test case. Mr Robertson appeared for the pursuer, and Mr Thomson was for the defence.

At the opening of the case, the SHERIFF asked how it was proposed to prove that the Commissioners’ order had been recorded.

Mr ROBERTSON said he could bring a certified copy of the order.

The SHERIFF thought the best way was to obtain a certificate under the hand of the Sheriff-Clerk.

Mr THOMSON thought the record itself might be produced. He supposed all the decisions of the Commissioners in Orkney had been recorded.

The SHERIFF said that the 28th section of the Crofters Holdings Act empowered a sheriff to pronounce decree when satisfied that an order had been made conform to the provisions thereof, and had been duly recorded.

It having transpired, however, that the orders in question had not, for want of time, been recorded, his lordship made a note of the fact, and the case proceeded.

The SHERIFF asked whether there was any defence in regard to the second item in the account – that of arrears.

Mr THOMSON replied that payment had been tendered, but had not been accepted. The sum sued for, he went on to say, was the half year’s rent of the croft due at Martinmas last, and in that connection he would refer his lordship to the decision of the Crofters Commission fixing the fair rent as at the term of Whitsunday last at £4 10s, making the sum really due £2 5s, not £3 10s in respect of rent. Mr Thomson having read the order of the Commissioners fixing the fair rent of Work’s croft, and ordering the payment of £10 of arrears in four instalments.

The SHERIFF observed that the order said nothing as to when the rent was to be paid.

Mr THOMSON admitted that that was so; and pointed out that, in his opinion, the question fell to be determined by reference to section 6 of the Crofters Holdings Act, sub-sections 2 and 3. Unfortunately, these sub-sections were in direct confict. Sub-section 2 provided, among other things, that the rent fixed by the Commissioners should be deemed to be the rent payable as from the first term of Whitsunday or Martinmas next succeeding the order. Under that section the contention of the pursuer would be welI founded; but sub-section 3 provided that “where the Crofter Commission shall fix a rent which shall be less in amount than the present rent, the crofter shall be entitled, at the next payment of rent, to deduct from the amount of the fixed rent such sum or sums as he may have paid over and above the amount of the fixed rent in respect of the period between the date of the notice of application to fix the fair rent; (and the first term of Whitsunday or Martinmas next following) the date when such rent was fixed.” He might fairly have argued, in face of this sub-section, that the fair rent ran from the date of the notice of application to the Commissioners, which in the case under review went far back beyond the term of Whitsunday. Again, in terms of the Amendment Act of 1887 there fell to be added under sub-section 3, the addition of the “first term of Whitsunday or Martinmas following the decision of the Commission.”

The SHERIFF gathered that the points upon which attention must be fixed were the date of the application, the date of the fixing of fair rent, and the next term after that. His point was this. The 3rd sub-section only enabled a crofter to deduct such as he might already have paid. Here, however, there had been no payment. When this new element was introduced into it, the question became more complicated. It seemed to him, indeed, that the 3rd sub-section was almost unintelligible.

Mr Thomson admitted that that was so, and said that he would take a common sense view of the matter. Looking, therefore, to the fact that the present case would form an important precedent, he had to ask his lordship to remit it to the ordinary roll in order that such evidence might be got as would enable it to be dealt with by a superior court. He was quite willing to go direct to the Supreme Court, and it would be in the interests of economy if the pursuer met him at that point.

Mr ROBERTSON argued that there was no necessity for such a step. It was merely a question of the payment of rent due under the Act. In his opinion sub-section 3 had only been put in in order to place those tenants who had been honest and paid their rents on the same footing with those who were in arrears. Mr Thomson’s argument that the fair rent might well be dated from the day of application was absurd, because there had been no rent paid from which to make any reduction.

The SHERIFF asked whether he could reconcile the two sub sections.

Mr ROBERTSON – Not as they stand. (Laughter.) Continuing his argument, he held that the old rent was that which was payable at Martinmas last.

The SHERIFF said there was one very serious argument against the motion, that parties could not possibly go to the Court of Session, because the amount sued for was under the statutory limit of £25.

Mr THOMSON remarked that if the pursuer would agree, he would submit a joint case to the Court of Session.

Mr ROBERTSON could not agree to this step. He simply held that the rents sued for were now payable.

The SHERIFF said the case raised a question of some difficulty, and he should imagine, of some importance. For that reason he could quite understand that the defender might be desirous of having the decision of a Supreme Court. Had it been possible to take it to a Supreme Court, he should certainly have been willing to comply with the defender’s demand, but it was quite obvious that the case could not be so dealt with, no matter whether he ordered written pleadings, or in other words, send it to the ordinary roll or not. That being so, it was better to decide the case in the Small Debt Court, and allow his decision to go for what it was worth. That was really the only course he could adopt.

Mr ROBERTSON then addressed his lordship on the merits of the case. He said that the whole question rested upon the two sub-sections of section 6 which had been already dwelt upon. Sub-section 2, however, he held to be the ruling one, and sub-section 3 did not affect it so far as those tenants who were in arrear were concerned. The first-named section, he maintained, laid down quite plainly that the rent should be as from the first term of Whitsunday or Martinmas next succeeding the Commissioners’ decision. The fact that the 3rd sub-section was so confused and contradictory could not affect the first one. The 3rd sub-section apparently meant to deal with those crofters simply who had paid up their rents after the date of application. In that case no doubt they were entitled to get repayment of the sums paid in excess of the fair rent, but when no sum in respect of rent had been paid, they could not expect to get any reduction.

The SHERIFF – Is it the fact that the defender here has made no payment towards his rent since the notice of application?

Mr ROBERTSON – Yes.

Mr THOMSON – No; he has paid some sums through myself personally.

Mr ROBERTSON replied that he had paid nothing in excess of the fixed fair rent, and was still in arrears at Whitsunday.

Mr THOMSON took his stand upon sub-section 3 in its entirety. He held that not only were the crofters entitled to the benefit of a fair rent for the half-year ending Martinmas last, but in the present case that the crofter was entitled to go back to 22nd February 1887.

The SHERIFF – You say that fair rent runs from the date of the notice of application. The defender in this case has not paid during the whole of that time his full rent; how then can he benefit by this sub-section?

Mr THOMSON – Because the sub-section makes no distinction between those who are in arrears and those who are not.

The SHERIFF thought that Mr Robertson took a fair view – that in order to avail himself of this sub-section the crofter must pay his full rent.

Mr THOMSON – That has been cancelled by the Commissioners.

The SHERIFF observed that in that case defender’s argument fell to the ground.

After further argument, in which Mr Thomson brought into prominence the fact that the rent sued for had already been declared by the Commission to be a rack rent, the SHERIFF took the case to avizandum. [Scots law: a judge’s or court’s decision to consider a case privately before giving judgment].

………………..

On Wednesday, in Sourin Public School, Mr John Gibson, Langskaill, and Mr Samuel Gibson, Bigland, were unanimously re-elected ratepayers’ representatives on Rousay Parochial Board.


1889 January 23 Orkney Herald

THE GALE. – Fortunately, so far as Orkney was concerned, the sudden gale of Friday did no particular damage that we have heard of. One or two undecked smacks and fishing boats, it is reported, had to run for shelter to the nearest islands; but it is not said that any casualties are to be reckoned of. It is said, however, that seven men have been lost by the foundering of a fishing boat from Thurso. The storm in Shetland was terrific.

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND CROFTERS – THE MARTINMAS RENTS. – In Orkney Sheriff Court yesterday, Sheriff Armour delivered jusgement in the actions brought by Major-General Burroughs against William Work, Breval, and six other crofters on his Rousay estate, for rent and instalments of arrears due at Martinmas last.

….. One of the objects of the Crofters Act of 1886 being to fix a statutory rent which should remain unchanged for a period of seven years, it was necessary to fix a date from which the seven years should run. For that purpose sub-section 2 of section 6 was obviously introduced, and it lays down a general rule in perfectly unambiguous terms: namely, that the last payment of the old rent shall take place at the term of Whitsunday or Martinmas following the Commissioners’ decision, and that from that term the fair rent shall commence to run. Such is the general rule, and I take it that without express words in the Act introducing an exception to that rule it must be applied uniformly to every case, whether the rents are raised or lowered. The defender, of course, points to sub-section 3 as introducing an exception in his favour. But it is obvious on the face of that sub-section for what purpose it was introduced. The Crofter Commissioners are invested with very large powers to deal with arrears of rent under the statute: and there would, of course, be a very natural tendency on the part of those who had applied to the Commission to allow their arrears to accumulate after the date of this application, in the hope that more would be struck off. To counteract this tendency, and to induce those to pay rent who could pay, by holding out this incentive that they should at least be in no worse position than their neighbours, was clearly the primary object of the sub-section. This object is attained by allowing the crofter to deduct all over-payments he may have made in excess of the fair rent since the date of his notice of application; in other words, the fair rent is made in effect to draw back to that date…..The Act does, in a roundabout and indirect way, provide for the reduction, drawing back in the case of those crofters who have paid their original rents continuously up to the date of the decision. But it stops there; and in all other cases, as I read the statute, the rule applicable is that laid down by sub-section 2 – namely, that after the first term of Whitsunday or Martinmas after the decision of the Commissioners the old rent shall be payable. From that date the new, or statutory, rent fixed shall commence to run, and shall not be altered for seven years. In this case, and in each of the other six cases regulated by the present decision, I therefore discern in favour of the pursuer for the full sum sued for.


1889 January 30 Orkney Herald

THE SEASON. – There have recently been some indications of frost, but the weather has been so changeable that the promise of the morning is generally falsified by the meteorological events of the day. Farmers being so well advanced with ploughing, a period of frost would not be unacceptable, especially as it would operate to check the premature growth which is now so apparent, and would tend as well towards that pulverization of the soil which is so desirable at this season of the year. Fodder is now coming in very handy. There is no general scarcity of straw, mainly because of the fact that it has been carefully husbanded in most cases. The lateness of the past harvest, however, certainly reduced the supplies for stall-feeding all over, and all that is to be had will be needed. The turnip crop has been most unequal; on some farms it has turned out excellently well, in others indifferently, and in some cases it is poor indeed. But, “taking one consideration with another,” the outlook for the farmer at present is not altogether cheerless. The prices for stock are still ruling low.


1889 February 13 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY PLOUGHING MATCH. – The ploughing match in connection with the Rousay and Veira Agricultural Society came off on Thursday last on a field kindly granted by Mr William Mainland, Banks, Sourin. The day, unfortunately, was bitterly cold, and the ground frozen so hard as to put fancy ploughing altogether out of the question. However, by ten o’clock twenty-four ploughs were on the ground – three champions and twenty-one ordinary ploughmen. All started work shortly after ten o’clock, and stuck bravely to their care-hardened task. Most of them completed their work with daylight, but a few finished in the dark; and owing to the extreme hardness of the frost, a good many of both men and horses were pretty well done up. The turn-out of horses and harness was very fine, many of the teams being tastefully decorated. The judges were Messrs Groundwater, Soulisquoy, and Mainland, Carness, whose decisions gave great satisfaction, notwithstanding the difficulty of their task. The prize list is as follows: –

Champions. – 1, Charles Corsie, Brendale; 2, George Gibson, Langskaill; 3, Allan Gibson, Scockness.
Ordinary Ploughmen. – 1, Malcolm Leonard, Grips (who also takes the Highland Society’s medal); 2, J. Marwick, Bigland; 3. Charles Johnstone, Trumland; 4, W. Sabiston, Westness; 5, J. Cutt, Trumland; 6, Alex Craigie, Falquoy; 7, Alexander Learmonth, Faraclett; 8, W. Learmonth, do.; 9, Peter Swanson, Avelshay.
Harness. – 1, Peter Swanson, Avelshay; 2, Charles Corsie, Brendale; 3, James Marwick, Trumland; 4, Charles Johnstone, Trumland.
Grooming. – 1, Charles Johnstone, Trumland; 2, Allan Gibson, Scockness; 3, Peter Swanson, Avelshay; 4, John Cutt, Trumland.
Best Decorations. – Charles Corsie, Brendale.
Best Fearing. – Allan Gibson, Scockness.

A great number of special prizes were also given by the kindness of the young ladies of the district, and also by merchants and others in Kirkwall, but too numerous to be detailed here, as they amounted to nearly forty. Many of them were very beautiful, and the whole of them were very useful. The Secretary would take this opportunity of returning thanks to the friends in Kirkwall who so kindly assisted in the matter of the special prizes; and would particularly thank his numerous lady friends in the district for the very generous way in which they responded to his appeal for help is the same direction. Also, he would thank those who sent the valuable piece of crockery and the medicine chest, and regrets they could not be awarded this year on account of the difficulty of finding out the proper parties entitled to receive them.


1889 February 20 Orkney Herald

THE CROFTER’S HEN. – Anything that tends to throw light on the ingoings and outcomings of this mysterious fowl must be welcomed by all who are interested in the prosperity of the Orkney crofter. The question in dispute may not be settled by argument, but simply by the production of facts; and without reviewing the controversy ab ovo, we beg to submit, for the information of parties interested, the following statistics relative to the productive capacity of the hen. They are founded upon the researches of a distinguished German naturalist. He says that the ovary of a hen contains about 600 embryo eggs, of which not more than 20 are matured in the first year. The second year produces 120; the third 135; the fourth 114; and in the succeeding four years the number decreases by 20 yearly. In the ninth year only 10 are to be expected. If we are to take this as approximately correct, then there should be little difficulty in setting against the 600 eggs the cost of keep during nine years, and so arriving at a basis for the production of a profit and loss account. In addition, a hen census could be easily arranged, and in this way would be settled, once and for ever, the profound mystery of the Crofter’s Hen.

ROUSAY ENTERTAINMENT. – An entertainment, under the auspices of the Rousay Mutual Improvement Guild, was given in the Wasbister Public School on the evening of Friday last – the Rev. A. J. Pirie in the chair. The choir, under the able leadership of Mr George Gibson, rendered the various pieces in excellent style. At the close of the programme, a sumptuous tea was handed round to the assembled company, after which votes of thanks were given to the Chairman and others taking part in the entertainment. About fifty couples then engaged in dancing for several hours. Supper was then served, and the singing of the National Anthem brought to a close one of the most successful meetings of this kind ever given in the island, the company dispersing at midnight. The programme was as follows:-

Glee, “Awake, Æolian Lyre,” choir; Chairman’s address; song, Mr George Gibson; reading, “How to Get a Poultry Dinner,” Mr H. Inkster; trio, “Boatmen of the Forth,” Misses Inkster, Gibson, and Mr K. Sinclair; part song, “Busy, Curious, Thirsty Fly,” choir; duet, “Lottie Lane,” Messrs Kirkness and Clouston; song, “Fifty Years Ago,” Mr John Gibson; reading, “The Provost’s Visit to London,” Mr George Gibson; sailors’ chorus, “We Rock Away on the Billows Gay,” choir; duet, “All’s Well,” Messrs Inkster and Gibson; reading, Mr J. Gibson; quartette, “Pro Phundo Basso,” Misses Gibson and Messrs Inkster and Gibson; glee, “In the Lonely Vale of Streams,” choir; dialogue, Leonard and Craigie; song, H. Inkster; glee, “Through the Wood.”


1889 February 27 Orkney Herald

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND HIS CROFTERS. – In the Orkney Sheriff Court yesterday, Frederick Burroughs Kirkness, Quoyostray, Rousay, was summoned at the instance of Major-General Burroughs for arrears of rent amounting to £30. Sheriff Armour, there being no defence, gave decree. Mr Thomson – “An application has been made to the Crofters Commission for assist.” His lordship – “I have nothing to do with that.”


1889 March 20 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – KINDERSPIEL CONCERT. – The annual rehearsal by the pupils of Wasbister Public School, of their winter’s musical and elocutionary studies, in view of H.M. Inspector’s visit, was given in the school on Friday evening. An enthusiastic audience, from the surrounding districts, crowded the building to overflowing – “the oldest inhabitant” testifying that never were so many people packed into the school. The Rev. A. Irvine Pirie having been called to the chair, presided in his well-known racy style. He was supported by the Rev. Robert Bonett, of Glasgow; Miss Monmuir, Veira Public School, &c. Mr Archibald Merrilees, the schoolmaster, conducted; and Mrs Merrilees played the harmonium accompaniments throughout the programme. which was as follows: –

(1) Chant, “The Lord’s Prayer,” Wasbister Public School choir; Kinderspiel – “The Alphabet,” characters “A to Z,” by the choir, aged 5 to 14; Little Lady Examiner, Isa. Kirkness; Little Gentleman Inspector, Fred. Kirkness. A substantial service of cake and fruit was, on the suggestion of the juvenile inspector, awarded to the Kinderspiel Choir “as a prize won.”
(2) Boy’s Parliament – Debate on “Home Rule Bill,” by the local M.P.’s, aged 9 to 14 – Masters David M. Leonard, Robert Inkster, Hugh Craigie, Jas. Logie, Mark and Fred. Kirkness, John Craigie, Hugh and William Pearson, David James Inkster.
(3) Solo, “There’s nae Luck,” Mary Ann Inkster; dialogue, “Dolly’s Doctor,” Clara Craigie and Hugh Sinclair; solo, “Rosalie,” Isa. Kirkness; recitation, “Boys’ Rights,” Hugh Craigie; solo, “Lass of Richmond Hill,” James Logie; recitation, “I wouldn’t! Would you?” D. M. Leonard; action duet, “All’s Well,” Robert Inkster and James Logie.

This programme was wholly sustained by the efforts of the juveniles, who discarded the book, and sang and acted their parts with great freedom. The Kinderspiel describes musically a school inspection by a little lady and gentleman examiner. The children, tastefully arrayed, wore suitable alphabetic emblems, and accompanied their singing and recitation with spirited gesture – all these effects combined forming a picturesque scene. By special desire, Mrs Merrilees warbled two airs, “Bird in Hand” and “Angus Macdonald,” which were well received. The chairman addressed the children in words of high compliment and encouragement. He said that in their respective characters, as actors, singers, doctors, inspectors, and M.P.’s, they had acted their parts as to the manner born. He then called upon Mr Bonett, who, in a capital speech, gave his testimony, as a stranger from the south, to the high excellence of the entertainment, and of its being abreast of the times. He moved a vote of thanks to the performers and conductors, which was heartily awarded with encores. The latter gentleman having pronounced a benediction, the people dispersed, unanimous in their testimony that their long programme was all too short.

St Stephen’s, Friday evening. – The Speaker (Mr Archibald Merrilees) took the chair punctually at 19.30 o’clock. In anticipation of the debate on Home Rule (Women’s) Bill, there was a full house. The Conservative Government crowded a rather rickety bench, symbolic of their political position. The Liberal Opposition were in strong force on the left. The various galleries throughout the house were thronged with spectators, apparently labouring under the suppressed excitement of the crisis of affairs. The question hour was fully taken advantage of, and some amusing, though pertinent, allusions made to such burning questions as “the fashions in ladies’ bonnets,” “the marriage laws in the Fair Isle,” “the tax on latch keys,” “the cabin accommodation of the ss “Lizzie Burroughs,” and the “high grants to Wasbister Public School.” Notices of question and motion having been disposed of, several petitions were presented for and against the “Home Rule Bill.” One of these, from the inhabitants of the Scilly Isles, was nearly two yards long and contained 50,000 signatures. The hon. member for Rousay (Mark Kirkness) declared that there were not 50,000 silly people in the Scilly Isles, which innovation was treated with “right hon. contempt” by the member (Alfred Gibson). An amusing incident occurred later on, when the hon. member for Caithness (David M. Leonard), with much Highland pride, and consequently strong Gaelic accent, demanded the Government to grant a “Crimes Commission” to enquire into the alleged breach of privilege by the publishers of a nursery rhyme, that insinuated dishonesty on the part of ” TonaId” in general. The Clerk having announced that the next business was the “Home Rule Bill,” a lively debate followed. The hon. member for Rousay advocated that women should have offices as consuls and plenipotentiaries, so that “his wife” might be sent to “Pentland, or any other land that was a long way off,” and then appealed to the reporters not to put these remarks down, for obvious reasons. The respective members contributed characteristic speeches. The hon. member for an adjacent Emerald Isle (Hugh Pearson), speaking in favour of the measure, with a rich Irish brogue, enlisted much sympathy. He was backed by the hon. member for the Muckle Water (John Craigie), who, in broad Doric, supported the “bill, the hale bill, and naething but the bill.” The Government, however, led by the “peerie” Prime Minister (Robert Inkster) and the Home Secretary (James Logie, M.P. for Trumland), were immovable, and “would do nothing unless compelled to do something if there were nothing else to do.” On the vote being taken, the House came to a “deadlock,” as the “ayes” and “noes,” both for the amendment and the second reading, were equal. The Speaker, however, gave his casting vote for the bill, which decided the downfall of the Conservative Government. The house rose, with much excited gesture, at 20.19 o’clock.


1889 April 15 Glasgow Herald

SCHOOL BOARDS. ROUSAY AND EGILSHAY. – The School Board of Rousay and Egilshay met and considered, and disposed of a considerable amount of routine business. Thereafter a letter was read from the Rev. A. McCallum, chairman of the Board, in which he intimated that, as he was leaving the parish from ill-health, he regretted to have to resign his office as chairman and also his seat as a member of the Board. The Board resolved, in accepting the resignation, to record their profound sympathy with Mr McCallum in the circumstances, especially regarding his health, and also their deep regret at parting with one who had done so much to relieve the schools of the parish of a burdensome debt, and who had as chairman put educational matters on a solid, economical, and satisfactory footing. The clerk was instructed to furnish Mr McCallum with an excerpt of the Board’s minute. It was then moved and seconded that the Rev. A. Spark, Established Church, Rousay, be elected as chairman in succession to Mr McCallum. It was also moved and seconded that the Rev. A. J. Pirie, United Presbyterian Church, Rousay, be elected.  By the casting vote of Mr Marwick, Guidall, chairman pro tem, the Rev. A. J. Pirie was elected.


1889 April 17 Orkney Herald

NORTH ISLES PRESBYTERY. – ….. With reference to the injunctions laid upon him in December last to reside in his parish, Mr Spark, of Rousay, explained that he could find no suitable residence in Rousay, but had obtained lodgings from Saturday to Monday, that he had discharged his duties as faithfully as possible, and that he expected to re-occupy his manse early next month, when he was informed it would be ready. The Presbytery expressed their satisfaction in the circumstances, with the statements he had made and particularly with the announcement that he was so soon to get possession of his manse. A petition from the inhabitants of Wasbister, Rousay, signed by 101 persons of all denominations, was laid before the Presbytery praying for the services of a missionary in that district which was so far from any church. The Presbytery, while cordially receiving the petition and sympathizing with the people in that secluded portion of Rousay, regretted that the funds available for church extension are in the meantime insufficient for such a purpose…..


1889 April 30 John o’ Groat Journal

ORKNEY FREE PRESBYTERY. – At meeting held at Rousay on Wednesday, the Presbytery granted moderation in a call in favour of Mr Bonellie, preacher, Glasgow, to be minister of Rousay Free Church. The call was harmonious, and a letter was read from Mr Bonellie intimating his intention of accepting.


1889 May 22 Orkney Herald

PROPOSED SALE OF ROUSAY AND VEIRA. – We understand that the estate of Rousay and Veira will be exposed for sale at the Mart, Tokenhouse Yard, London, on Thursday, 27th June. The extent of the estate is given at 12,000 acres, of which about 3,148 are arable, 8,828 pasture, and 25 plantation. It is said also to contain veins of lead and copper as well as pavement flagstone, and a sort of curly shale. The rental is given at £3,305 6s 3d, and the public burdens at £625 5s 7d, leaving a clear rental of £2,680, not including Trumland House and shootings in the proprietor’s occupation valued at about £625.


1889 May 29 Orkney Herald

ORKNEY SHERIFF COURT. – The usual sitting of this court was held yesterday – Sheriff Armour on the bench…..THE ROUSAY MANSE DISPUTE. – This action was brought by General Burroughs and others, heritors of Rousay and Egilshay, against the Rev. Alex. Spark, minister of the united parishes, for the purpose of staying proceedings before the Presbytery of North Isles under the petition presented by the defender to the said rev. court praying for a new manse, and to dispose of said petition.

Mr ROBERTSON said that the architect having reported that the necessary works had been carried out, he had to move, in terms of the 12th section of the Ecclesiastical Buildings (Scotland) Act, that the manse declared free.

The SHERIFF said that he must be satisfied that the manse was in a thorough state of repair. The usual procedure was to remit to a man of skill. Had the architect lodged a formal report?

Mr ROBERTSON believed that that had not been done.

The SHERIFF considered that it would be better to have a formal report lodged. The manse had been inspected both by the architect and parties’ agents, and so there would be no difficulty in the matter.

Mr THOMSON had no objection to the course suggested, and his lordship pronounced an order for the lodging of the formal report…..

ROUSAY – ORDINATION. – On Wednesday last the Rev. R. Bonellie, late of Glasgow, was inducted to the charge of the Free Church congregation here. The Rev. J. Roy, M.A., Evie, presided at the moderation; and thereafter preached an eloquent discourse from 1 Timothy iii. 15, to a large audience. The Rev. J. R. Anderson, M.A., Harray, having delivered the charge to the newly-ordained minister and people, the Rev. D. Gillies. Orphir, gave a telling discourse on Church principles. In the evening a soiree was held, at which the speakers were: – Messrs Roy, Anderson, Gillies, Robb, and Pirie (U.P.), with Mr D. S. Macdonald, from the Barony Free Church, Glasgow. In the course of the evening, Mr Roy presented the congregation, through Mr Bonellie, with a handsome pulpit Bible, the gift of Mr Isdale; while Mr Archibald Merrilees, in name of the ladies, presented Mr Bonellie with a valuable marble timepiece. Lastly Mr James Leonard presented Mr Roy with a field-glass from the congregation as a token of their respect for his services as interim moderator. On Sunday, at noon, Mr Bonellie was introduced to the congregation by his former minister, the Rev. Mr Macdonald, Barony Free Church, Glasgow, and in the afternoon the new pastor preached to a large congregation.


1889 May 29 Morning Post

ROUSAY IN ORKNEY

VALUABLE RESIDENTIAL ESTATE FOR SALE.

MESSRS. J. WATSON LYALL and CO., Land Agents, 15, Pall-mall, London,
are instructed to SELL, by AUCTION, at the Mart, Tokenhouse-yard,
Bank of England, London, on THURSDAY, June 27,
at two o’clock precisely.

The extensive and attractive ESTATE of ROUSAY and VIERA, in the county of Orkney. The extent of the estate is about 12,000 acres, of which about 3,148 acres are arable, 8,827 acres pasture, and about 25 acres plantation. The climate is most salubrious, with little frost or snow in winter, and the whole district is most picturesque. The estate is about 10 miles from Kirkwall, the chief town of the Orkney Islands. The route is by rail to Thurso, thence by steamer to Kirkwall and Rousay; also by steamer from Leith or Aberdeen to Kirkwall: or from Liverpool or Glasgow to Stromness (Orkney). There is a post-office about 2½ miles distant, and a pillar letter-box at the lodge gate. Telegraph-office at Kirkwall, 10 miles dlstant. The estate is surrounded and intersected by good roads. There are two residences, namely, the Mansion-house of Trumland and Westness House. Trumland House occupies a beautiful position surrounded by 50 acres of policies, pleasure grounds, gardens, &c. The mansion was built in 1875 from designs by the well-known architect, Mr. D. Bryce, R.S.A., and is a very handsome characteristic Scotch house, with large accommodation. Westness House (shooting lodge) is nicely situated, and has also accommodation for a large party. There is a good stock of game on the estate, including grouse, snipe, plover, wild duck, hares, rabbits, &c. A great variety of wildfowl, including wild swans, visit the island in winter, and there are seals in summer. It is, in fact, an excellent all-the-year-round shooting. There is excellent Loch trout fishing, and good sea-trout fishing – exclusive right to both. The whole district is picturesque and interesting, and the views from the Mansion-house very fine. There are veins of lead, copper, and a sort of curly shale, and also pavement flagstones. Secure anchorage for yachts in the Sound close to Trumland House all the year round, and secure summer anchorage at Westness. The rental of the estate is £3,365 6s. 3d., and the public burdens amount to £625 5s. 7d., leaving a clear rental of £2,680, not including Trumland House and shootings in proprietor’s occupation, valued at about £625.

Printed particulars of sale may be had from Messrs. J. Watson Lyall and Co.,
land agents, 15, Pall-mall, London.


1889 June 5 Orkney Herald

HEAVY THUNDERSTORM IN ORKNEY. – On Sunday afternoon, between three and four o’clock, a thunderstorm of almost unprecedented severity broke over Orkney, but fortunately was of brief continuance, and occasioned no damage that we have yet heard of. The earlier part of the day had been sultry, and large premonitory drops of rain fell in the forenoon, but it was not till about a quarter to four o’clock that the storm burst. The rain, which at times was interspersed with hail, then came down for about a quarter of an hour in sheets, and those returning from church had either to submit to a thorough soaking or seek friendly shelter. The thunder rolled for a time almost continuously, while the lightning, if not blinding, was remarkably vivid. Shortly after four o’clock the storm passed away to the westward.


1889 June 12 Orkney Herald

ORKNEY SHERIFF COURT. – The weekly sitting of this Court was held yesterday – Sheriff Armour on the bench.

THE ROUSAY MANSE CASE. – In the action Burroughs v. Spark, Mr Robertson (for the pursuer) moved that the manse of Rousay be declared free. The case, he said, had been adjourned from last court day in order to allow the defender’s agent (Mr Thomson) ascertaining whether the water supply was right.

The SHERIFF asked whether any objection was made to the motion.

Mr ROBERTSON replied that none at least had been intimated.

Mr COWPER (in the absence of Mr Thomson, in Shetland) remarked that he had received a letter from the Rev. Mr Spark stating that he was willing the manse should be declared free in so far as it was in a fresh and sound state and free from decay, but pointing out that there were still portions left which were wholly unsound and worm-eaten. Of those, specimens were forwarded. Mr Spark had on three occasions signified his objection to living in the manse in that condition. It may be in a state of quasi sufficient repairs, but the Act directed, in order to its being declared free, that it should be so in toto.

The SHERIFF said that as no objections had been lodged, of course he could not take that communication into account. He thought there had been specimens of wood sent before, but that had been dealt with by the architect.

Mr ROBERTSON said that was so.

The SHERIFF, in respect that no objections were sustained to the architect’s report, pronounced an order finding the manse free…..


1889 July 17 Orkney Herald

ORKNEY SHERRIF COURT. – A sitting of this Court was held yesterday – Sheriff Armour on the bench…..

SCHOOL BOARD PROSECUTIONS. – Several summonses were heard against ratepayers in Rousay for recovery of arrears of school fees dating back from 1883. Mr Thomson appeared for the School Board of Rousay.

A discussion having arisen as to the tardiness of the Board in instituting proceedings, Mr THOMSON remarked that it would be very hard indeed if the School Board were to be punished for its leniency.

The SHERIFF said there was a middle course that might have been taken. A duty rested with the School Board just as much as with the parent. The parent had to pay the fees if he were able, and it rested with the School Board to secure these within a reasonable time. They ought not to allow fees to accumulate for six years.

Mr THOMSON said that in the cases under review poverty was pleaded. He did not wish to have the cases unduly pushed, nor did he think the School Board would act in that direction.

The SHERIFF – What I am pointing to is this, that if, on the one hand, the parent does not pay, and, on the other hand, the School Board neither asks for fees nor interferes by legal process to enforce their right, then all evidence is lost as to what the exact pecuniary position of the parent was, say in 1883.

Mr THOMSON admitted it was a long time to have these arrears accumulating.

The SHERIFF said he would give decree in the several cases, not for the arrears sued for, but only as from February, 1888.


1889 August 7 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – CATTLE SHOW. – The cattle show In connection with the Rousay and Veira Agricultural Society was held on the farm of Banks, Sourin, on Wednesday last. The day was all that could be desired, and there was a good turnout of cattle and horses. Sheep were conspicuous by their absence. A large number of spectators visited the show ground during the day, among whom were General and Mrs Burroughs and party from Trumland House, who took a lively interest in the proceedings. The judges were Messrs MacGregor, Warrenfield, Kirkwall; and Sutherland, Quanterness, whose decisions seemed to give general satisfaction, and who awarded the prizes as follows: –

CATTLE. Bulls – 1 and Highland Society’s medal, General Burroughs, Trumland.
Cross Cows – 1, General Burroughs, Trumland; 2, John Gibson, Langskaill; 3, G. Gibson, Avelshay.
Two-Year-Old Heifers – 1, John Gibson, Langskaill; 2, William Mainland, Banks; 3. J Mainland, Ervadale; commended, John Gibson, Langskaill.
Two-Year-Old Steers (one entry) – William Corsie, Brendale.
One-Year-Old Heifers – 1, George Gibson, Avelshay; 2, General Burroughs; 3, Samuel Gibson, Bigland.
One-Year-Old Steers – 1, Geo. Gibson, Avelshay; 2, General Burroughs; 3, W. Learmonth, Faraclett.

HORSES. Mares with Foal at Foot – 1 and Highland Society’s medal, John Gibson, Langskaill; 2, Samuel Gibson, Bigland; 3, George Stevenson, Scockness.
Yeld Mares – 1, William Corsie, Brendale; 2, G. Gibson, Avelshay; 3, David Inkster, Innister.
Two-Year-Old Fillies – 1, John Gibson, Hurtiso; 2, David Inkster, lnnister.
Two-Year-Old Colts – 1, George Gibson, Avelshay; 2, Samuel Gibson, Bigland; 3, George Learmonth, Westness.
One-Year-Old Fillies – 1, William Inkster, Cogar; 2, William Learmonth, Faraclett; 3, Geo. Stevenson, Scockness.
Ponies under 12 Hands – 1, Robert Learmonth, Faraclett; 2, General Burroughs.

POULTRY. Best Cock and Hen – Mrs Murrison, Veira Lodge. Chickens – 1, Mrs Burroughs; 2, Mrs Gibson, Langskaill.
FANCY BIRDS. Golden Pencil Cock and Hen – Miss Learmonth, Faraclett.
Silver Pencil Cock and Hen – Miss Learmonth, Faraclett. Duck and Drake – Miss Learmonth, Faraclett.

After the show the judges, committee, and a few other friends sat down to dinner in the Sourin Schoolroom. The Rev. A. Spark, minister of the parish, occupied the chair, while Mr John Gibson, Langskaill, discharged the duties of croupier in a very effective manner. The usual loyal and patriotic toasts were proposed and responded to. Much regret was expressed at the unavoidable absence of General Burroughs, to whose kindness and liberality the success of the show was largely due. His health, however, together with that of Mrs Burroughs, was proposed and most heartily responded to with cheers.


1889 August 14 Orkney Herald

THE TWELFTH. – In the phrase of those who regard sporting as a pastime, the 12th August was not a brilliant success – so far as the weather was concerned. Sport was in some respects disappointing. The birds were strong on the wing, but nevertheless they were scarce. On St Andrews, Mr Gold shot on Monday morning, 2 brace of grouse and 3 snipes. Sheriff Armour and Mr Buchanan had, in the afternoon, on Barryhill, 4 brace grouse, 4 couple snipe, 2 plover, and 1 wild duck. On the Westness portion of General Burroughs’ estate, General Macdonald bagged 9½ brace of grouse, 1 snipe, and 1 hare. Other estates in the county were shot over, but owing to the want of telegraphic communication we have no record – except that of rumour – to hand.

ROUSAY – PICNIC. – On Friday the 9th inst., the children of the Frotoft School started from the school, and marched to Skey Field, which was kindly granted by Mr Learmonth, and spent a most enjoyable day. The weather was good though rather breezy. After a service of bread and milk, games were heartily engaged in – running, jumping, &c. There was a good turn out of spectators, among whom were General Burroughs, Colonel McDonald, Mrs McDonald, and party from Westness House, Rev. Alex. Spark and Mrs Spark, Rev. A. I. Pirie and Mrs Pirie, Mr and Mrs Murrison, Miss McKay, Veira Lodge, and Mr Agnew. By the kind consent of Colonel McDonald the children were allowed to march through the gardens of Westness House, and also to view a little cottage most beautifully and artistically trimmed up by Miss Tewbank, Westness House. After singing a few songs and the awarding of prizes, the children were again served with milk, bread, and sweets, which was liberally supplied by the children’s parents. The company, being much pleased with their day’s enjoyment, broke up.


1889 August 21 Orkney Herald

THE SEASON. – The bright outlook of the last week or two has been to some extent dispelled by the gale of yesterday. The rain, though coming very late, has done much good to turnips, and even grass. Since Sunday, however, blasts of wind and heavy rain have in many instances laid the crop. The cutting of bere has necessarily been interfered with to a considerable extent. Fortunately, oat crops are not quite ready for the sickle, and thus they have escaped what we hope will be a temporary access of bad weather.


1889 September 11 Orkney Herald

MR ARCHIBALD MERRILEES, schoolmaster, Rogart [between Lairg and Golspie], late Rousay, has already been promoted to the mastership of a public school in Northumberland, at a rising salary. He left the Orkneys with the best wishes of all who knew him.

ROUSAY – PRESENTATION. – The children of the Wasbister Public School assembled in the school on the evening of Friday last to present their much respected teacher, Mr James R. McKay (Stromness), with a handsome pocket Bible and silver pocket case on the occasion of his leaving the district. Mr Gordon presided, and, with a few happy remarks, introduced Mr Agnew, Larbert, who, in a neat speech, made the presentation. In the course of his speech, Mr Agnew recalled the fact that the first known presentation was when Eve was presented to Adam in the garden of Eden. He said that these presents were from the old people as well as the young, and that it spoke exceedingly well for Mr McKay that during the time he has been in Wasbister he had thus gained the esteem and affection of the community, and made himself a general favourite in the district. Mr McKay, returning thanks, stated that this was the third time he had been called on to return thanks for presents, viz.:- 1st, in Abernethy, for a present from his scholars; 2nd, in Stromness from his Bible class; and now here from his scholars. He recalled the many happy days he had spent here, and urged the scholars to be attentive to their studies, and achieve the same greatness that former scholars of the school had attained in the medical and commercial worlds. A juvenile choir rendered some excellent songs, and Mr Agnew gave two recitations which greatly enhanced the enjoyment of the meeting, which was brought to a close by the usual vote of thanks.


1889 September 25 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – DEATH OF MR ALEXANDER MARWICK. – On Monday last Mr Marwick of Corse, our oldest inhabitant, passed away from our midst. He had reached the mature age of eighty-nine years, but maintained his strong mental powers to the last. On Thursday his body was laid to rest in the quaint old churchyard on the west side of Rousay. On Sabbath, in the U.P. Church, Mr Pirie, preaching from the text – “Then Abraham gave up the ghost and died in a good old age – an old man and full of years, and was gathered to his people” (Genesis xxv. 8) – made the following reference to the deceased: – We this day mourn the loss by death of Mr Alexander Marwick, our senior elder. He was one of the few remaining links between the past and present generations. Born with the century, he has been permitted to see more than the usual number of years allotted to man. Wasbister was Mr Marwick’s birthplace, and his parents were both eminent in piety and good works. His father is still remembered as a man remarkably proficient in Bible knowledge, Christian character, and in efforts to instruct both young and old in the word of truth. When about the age of twelve years, Mr Marwick sustained his first great loss in the death of his mother. That bereavement was the starting point in his spiritual history. By the time he had reached his twentieth year a religious movement had begun in Rousay and in all the surrounding islands. The chief agent in this awakening of spiritual interns was the Secession Church in Kirkwall. That church, after the comparatively brief but brilliant ministry of Mr Broadfoot, had just began to enjoy the ministrations of a singularly able and devoted pastor. The Kirkwall church, under the late Dr Paterson, from the very commencement of his ministry, became the centre of religious life and gospel privileges to the whole of Orkney. Large numbers, thirsting for the truth, flocked from all parts to hear him; and Mr Marwick, full of intellectual life and religious fervour, early joined the band of pilgrims that left this island weekly to worship in Kirkwall. Starting from his home in Wasbister about three o’clock on the Sabbath morning, he and his companions crossed the Rousay hills to Hullion, took boat to Evie, and then travelled to Kirkwall, returning by the same route at night. Thus at a time when there were no roads and many parts of the country well-nigh impassable, these earnest, self-denying men travelled fully forty miles to find gospel ordinances and to bring gospel blessings to their homes. This continued for a period of fifteen years, but during these years Mr Marwick was too earnest and enthusiastic to remain satisfied with merely securing spiritual profit for himself. Along with his father, and under the guidance of Dr Paterson, Sabbath-school work – a new form in that day of Christian labour – was zealously prosecuted. Prayer meetings for young men were started, and a Foreign Mission Society was organised. His crowning work, however, was the formation of this congregation. In the year 1834, three men – Alexander Marwick, John Craigie of Hullion, and Alexander Grieve of Howe, in Egilshay, met, and consulted together. They were all three members of the church in Kirkwall, and they took their proposals to Dr Paterson who gave them every encouragement, and promised substantial help. Mr Marwick appeared before the presbytery with a petition for a supply of gospel preaching in Rousay. The Presbytery cordially granted the petition, and appointed Dr Paterson to organise a congregation, and to take the necessary steps for the election of elders. Those three men – who will ever be affectionately remembered by this church – were unanimously elected to be the first elders. The church and manse were erected, and opened free of debt, and Dr Paterson, having preached the opening sermon, presided at the first communion service. Two of this first little band of elders, after lengthened service, entered into their rest years ago, and now the third and only survivor has been taken to his reward. Mr Marwick was in many respects a remarkable man. Possessed of a keen faculty of observation, a retentive memory, a robust, active mind, and conversational powers above the average, his fellowship was always interesting and profitable. His polite manner, his high-toned moral character, made those who came in contact with him feel, as one said on his funeral day, that “he was one of Nature’s gentlemen.” But his nobility was greater than nature could produce. A life of faith, of Bible reading, of communion with heavenly verities, of inwrought grace, had made him great in those qualities and virtues that adorn the Christian man. Strongly attached to the principles of this Church, and deeply interested in the spiritual prosperity of the people, this just man, humbly and quietly, within a narrow, circumscribed sphere, lived and laboured; and although his memory may be cherished by only a few, yet his record is on high, and his Master, who overlooks no service, has taken him to Himself, that He may crown him with honour and dignity and a glorious immortality.

[Alexander Marwick was born on July 11th 1801 at Negar, a house on the land of Falquoy in Wasbister. His parents were William Marwick, originally of Heatherhall, Wasbister, and Elizabeth Marwick. In 1827 Alexander married 25-year-old Isabella Gibson, daughter of David Gibson, Langskaill, and his second wife Jean Marwick, and between 1829 and 1844 they raised a family of six children.]


1889 October 16 Orkney Herald

AN ORCADIAN EX-CROFTER DEFORCED. – On Wednesday Mr James Leonard, sheriff-officer, Oban, proceeded to Ardnamurchan for the purpose of selling some cattle belonging to Donald MacDermid, crofter Glendryan, under a warrant from the Sheriff at Oban, following upon a Court of Session decree for arrears of rent due to Mr James Dalgleish. The officer was accompanied by the ground officer and an assistant, and states that on going to MacDermid’s croft he was prevented by a sister of the crofter, and some other woman belonging to the township, from taking possession of the poinded cattle. Fearing a disturbance he declared himself deforced, and returned to Oban without carrying the sale into effect. It is stated that MacDermid had applied to the Crofters Commission to deal with his arrears, but that Mr Dalgleish took decree against him for the same before the Commissioners had given their order in the application for a sist [Scots law: stay] of the proceedings. Leonard, it may be remembered, was recently a crofter in Rousay, and was evicted shortly after his appearance as a witness before the Crofters Commission.

[Deforce is a legal term, meaning to unlawfully withhold land from its true owner or from any other person who has a right to the possession of it, after one has lawfully entered and taken possession of it.]


1889 October 23 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – THE Rev. Alexander Spark, M. A , parish minister, after sermon on Sunday (13th inst.), read the pastoral letter on non-church going, housing of the poor, and intemperance, as enjoined by the Act of General Assembly of date 31st May last, and announced that Friday, 25th Oct., will be held as a fast-day; Sunday, 27th, as communion; and Wednesday, 30th, as harvest thanksgiving. The Rev. John Spark, M.A., minister of church and parish of Clyne, Sutherlandshire, will preach on fast-day and harvest thanksgiving, and assist at the communion. Since his return to Rousay, the parish minister has visited his people, distributing all the communion tokens, and has taken the names of all the congregation in 3 divisions: – 1, all 13 years and under; 2, all above 13 non-communicants; 3, all communicants. He finished his regular monthly service at Wasbister, which he has conducted now for three years, on Sunday night last, has commenced a children’s church, and, in obedience to the recommendation of the General Assembly, has adopted the schedule system of collection.


1889 October 30 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SCHOLASTIC. – The various schools in this parish were re-opened on Monday last. As education has been made altogether free, it is to be hoped that parents and others will do their utmost in assisting the School Board to secure regular attendance.


1889 November 16 The Orcadian

ROUSAY FREE CONCERT. – On the evening of Friday, 8th November, a free concert was given by the ladies of Westness House in the Frotoft Public School. Rev A. Pirie occupied the chair, and General and Mrs Burroughs were present on the platform. The inhabitants of Rousay should feel deeply indebted to the ladies of Westness for providing them with such a treat as was afforded on Friday evening. The services of Misses McDonald and Ewbank toward the success of the concert cannot be over-rated; and the accompaniments played by Mrs McDonald left nothing to be desired. The songs sung by Mr Hugh Inkster did not fail to tickle the comic faculties of every individual in the audience. Several solos were exquisitely rendered by Miss McDonald on the banjo. Master D. Learmonth’s rendering of “Duck Foot Sue” was excellent, and loudly applauded. Mr Marwick’s contributions to the programme do him great credit. The recitations were well rendered. The plantation songs reflect great praise both on the conductor and the chorus. The school children performed their part well under the able superintendence of Mr Muir.

Programme. – Plantation song, ‘Clitter Clatter’, chorus; song, ‘Powder Monkey Jim’, Mr Hugh Inkster; recitation, ‘Boys’ Rights’, Mr John Craigie; song, ‘Just as well’, Miss Ewbank, Violin; ‘Scotch Airs’, Mr N. Mainland; song, ‘Ballyhooly’, Mr Marwick; duet, ‘Down where the Blue Bells grow’, Mr Craigie and Mr D. Learmonth; song, ‘The Fishers’, Mrs Pirie; recitation, ‘Hodge and the Vicar’, Mr Muir; song, ‘Sailing’, Mr W. Learmonth; plantation song, ‘Dinah’s Wedding’, chorus; violin and song, ‘Serenade’, Miss Ewbank and Miss McDonald; song, ‘Razors in the Air’, Mr Hugh Inkster; banjo solo, ‘Darling Clementine’, Miss McDonald; duet, ‘A.B.C.’, Miss Low and Mr Mainland; song, ‘The Three Dreamers’, Mr W. Learmonth; song, ‘Duckfoot Sue’, Mr D. Learmonth; chorus, ‘Silverlake’, school children; melodeon, ‘Scotch Airs’, Mr R. Flett; song, ‘No Sir’, Miss S. Ewbank; piano, ‘Dance Music’, Miss Pirie; recitation, ‘ Modern Music’, Mr James Craigie; banjo solo, ‘Peptia’, Miss McDonald; plantation song, ‘Goodnight’, chorus.

General Burroughs in a neat speech proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the ladies from Westness House for getting up the concert, and also to the performers who had taken part. A vote of thanks was given to the Rev A. Pirie for his conduct in the chair. After singing ‘God Save the Queen,’ a very enjoyable evening was brought to a close.


1889 November 27 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – THE LATE ROBERT MAINLAND. – At the close of a sermon on Job xxxiii. 24, last Sunday, the Rev. Mr Spark said: – Last week we laid a Christian brother and neighbour into the grave. He had passed the three-score years and ten. The suddenness and unexpectedness of his decease, Saturday week past, accentuate the feeling of sadness. While his fidelity to things divine – conducting, as he did, the family devotions even within a few hours of his departure hence – enhances the glory of the Christian life. We cannot forget the anxiety and tender care he manifested for a brother who has been so long grievously afflicted and, even one at least, nigh unto death. His last words which were scarcely audible by human ear- “God be merciful,” or “Into thy hands I commit my spirit” – indicate to us how firm and sweet was his repose upon the “Rock of Ages.” It is now winter, and all is bleak; but spring comes again with gladdening flowers and joyous songs of birds, and season succeeds season, but we fade away. Ah! how speeds the flight of time! We pass at railway speed, spring, summer, autumn, and soon reach winter of man’s age. But if the faith of the dying thief be ours, and if the hope of eternity enriches the home of our soul, we may, even justly, bid winter welcome, if it comes to usher us into the glorious grandeur of the summer of eternity. “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord.” Amen.

[Robert Mainland was the son of Thomas Mainland and Janet Mowat and was born on July 22nd 1817. On April 21st 1843 he married Julia (Giles) Mainland, daughter of Alexander Mainland and Margaret Grieve, Banks, Frotoft. They lived at Classiquoy and raised a family of three children.]


1889 November 28 Glasgow Herald

COURT OF SESSION. – First Division – Wednesday, November 27. (Before the Lord-President, Lords Shand, Adam, and McLaren.)

COMMERCIAL BANK v. SINCLAIR’S EXECUTORS, &c. – Robert Sinclair, senr., sometime farmer at Swandale, Rousay, Orkney, died at Swandale on 24th February, 1884, survived by his wife, Mrs Christian Inkster or Sinclair. At the time of his death he had a sum of over £800 in deposit-receipt with the Commercial Bank. After the death of Mrs Sinclair in 1887 questions arose as to the right of the relatives to the fund, which was held to have been the property of the husband. The Commercial Bank accordingly raised this action to settle the claims of parties. Samuel Sinclair, 22 Dean Park Street, Edinburgh, and Betsy Sinclair or Craigie, farmer, widow of the late John Craigie, farmer, Falldown, Rousay, claimed the fund as executors dative of the late Robert Sinclair for the purpose of administration. By the late Robert Sinclair’s settlement, he bequeathed his property to his widow in liferent, and to four of his six children in fee equally among them, declaring that in respect two of his sons, Thomas and Hugh, had been set up and furnished by him in their farms at a cost equal to any share of his estate that they, or either of them, could by law or otherwise claim, they should receive no part of his estate at the time of the death of his wife. Both, however, claimed on the estate, Thomas for £103 5s 2d and Hugh for £51 11s 4d.

Lord Trayner repelled the claims of the two sons, and preferred the claim of the executors to the fund. The two sons were found liable in expenses. Counsel for Executors – Mr Wilson. Agent – T. M. Morris, S.S.C. Counsel for Thomas and Hugh Sinclair – Mr Galbraith Millar. Agent – James Gibson, S.S.C.


1889 December 18 Orkney Herald

THE HEROINE OF A DEFORCEMENT CASE. – Mrs Smith, the old woman of 78 years of age, who was sentenced by Sheriff Maclachlan and a jury to ten days in Oban prison, for deforcing the Sheriff officer, James Leonard, the evicted Rousay crofter, at Ardnamurchan some weeks ago, was liberated on Saturday morning. On her exit from the precincts of the “lock-up,” the old woman was met by a crowd of sympathisers who greeted her warmly, and forming a procession, headed by two pipers playing loud and lustily, they escorted her along George Street to McLaren’s restaurant, where a substantial breakfast had been got ready for the old lady. In the coffee-room of the restaurant, Bailie McCowan presented Mrs Smith, in name of a large number of subscribers in Oban and the district, with a purse containing a sum of £9. Later is the day a deputation of ladies from Taynuilt arrived by train and made Mrs Smith a further presentation of £2 8s 6d. About half the population of Oban turned out to see the old woman off by the midday Pioneer, on her way home, and gave her a hearty cheer as the steamer moved off.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1888

1888 January 4 Orkney Herald

THE AGRICULTURAL OUTLOOK. – From advices we have received from our various correspondents, we learn that farming operations, although retarded somewhat by the New Year’s holidays, are making good progress, mainly on account of the open and favourable weather which has of late been experienced. Lea ploughing is well forward. Local and Aberdeenshire dealers, who had shipped prime fat beasts in time for the Southern Christmas market have, we understand, realised good prices. Keeping beasts, at the same time, have had a very flat sale, and still show a downward tendency. Sheep have been almost entirely neglected so far as Orkney is concerned. A few months ago there was a considerable rush made by Orkney farmers in the breeding and rearing of pigs. This, however, seems now to have been checked by the modest returns for the shipments that have been made. Grain is selling badly, partly owing to the fact that the markets are partaking of a holiday character; but farmers and others are looking forward to a better price in the course of a month or two.


1888 January 11 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SOCIAL GATHERING. – New Year’s Day was observed in this island on Monday, 2nd January. On the evening of that day – by the invitation of the young men – the young ladies in this district, along with a few of the old folks, were invited to an evening’s enjoyment in the Frotoft Public School. At half-past five all sat down to an excellent tea, which had been prepared by some of the married ladies present. Tea being finished, dancing was commenced, and quadrilles, polkas, schottisches, reels, country dances, &c. were gone through. At intervals, the proceedings were enlivened with songs, given by some of the gentlemen present, some of which were rendered in a masterly style. At eleven o’clock supper was served, after which dancing was again resumed, and kept up with spirit till the “sma” hours of the morning. The company were liberally applied with refreshments during the evening. After singing “Auld Lang Syne” and the usual votes of thanks having been awarded to the young ladies, old folks, committee, and three hearty cheers to the Queen, the company dispersed, all being highly pleased with their evening’s enjoyment. The music was supplied by Mr M. Craigie, Wasbister, on the violin, in his usual able and masterly style, which gave the utmost satisfaction. As this is the first of such gatherings held in Frotoft, it is to be hoped it will not be the last.


1888 January 18 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – PAROCHIAL BOARD. – At a meeting of ratepayers of Rousay and Egilshay, held in the Sourin Public School on the 11th inst., Mr John Gibson, Langskaill, and Mr Samuel Gibson, Bigland, were unanimously elected representatives to the Parochial Board.


1888 January 25 Orkney Herald

THE MISSING KIRKWALL BOAT – A FRUITLESS SEARCH. – Since the perfectly placid Sabbath which succeeded the fatal 9th of December, and again on the following Monday, no organized search has been made for the fishing boat lost during that memorable storm; nor, it is needless to say, have any further portions of the wreck yet been cast up by the sea. From that time onwards, however, there has been no falling off in the anxiety displayed by local fishermen to discover some tangible trace of her whereabouts, the current belief still being that the boat did not founder in the String, but is now lying at some point within the bay, or at least in a position beyond the current of the String. Accordingly, when on Wednesday last, word was brought by a Rousay boat which had been dredging for mussels, that her apparatus had fouled what was supposed to be the sunken craft, all the old hopes was revived, although the evidence produced was not of the most convincing character – merely some rope and scrapings of paint that had adhered to the grappling on getting clear of the obstruction. This, however, was sufficient to set everyone on the qui vive; and very soon a number of boats were ready to set out from Kirkwall harbour manned by volunteer crews. About half-past eleven four search boats started from the pier for the spot indicated by the Rousay men – the mussel ground between Gairsay and Thieves Holm – for unfortunately they had neglected to take the exact bearings. After rowing and sailing with a light southerly wind for upwards of an hour, operations were commenced about three miles out. The boats having been got into line with a space of about sixty fathoms between each, the gear was sent out and sweeping was commenced with the flood, and continued so long as the tide served – till nearly 3 o’clock. With the slack water again the work was resumed in the opposite direction till 4 p.m.; and although several times the lines fouled and the grapnels were hopefully sent overboard, the obstructions proved to be only stones and rocks. By this time the tide had become too strong; and this, combined with the approach of night, forced the boats to suspend operations. On Thursday another search party were equally unsuccessful. In addition to the £10 formerly collected in Westray by Mr David Small, coastguard officer, Provost Peace has to acknowledge the receipt of £4 4s additional, being £1 18s 2d collected in Westray, and £2 5s 10d from Papa Westray. These are the only islands which seem to have taken any interest in this matter.


1888 February 1 Orkney Herald

SAILINGS FOR FEBRUARY
ROUSAY, EVIE AND RENDALL
STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY (LIMITED).

The steamship LIZZIE BURROUGHS, Built expressly for the Trade,
will Sail as follows, wind, weather and circumstances permitting:-

MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS
Leave Sourin at…..7.30am.
Calling at Egilshay, Trumland Pier, Weir, Hullion,
Evie, Tingwall, and Rendall point.
For Kirkwall.

TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS
Leave Kirkwall at…..10.30am.
For the above Places of Call.

SATURDAYS
Leave Trumland Pier at…..7.30am.
Calling at Hullion, Aikerness, Tingwall, and Rendall Point.
For Kirkwall.
Leave Kirkwall same day at…..2.30am.

For the above Places of Call.
NOTE. – The Company reserve the power to call
at any special Port when necessary.

FARES.
To and from Kirkwall and the different Places of Call:
CABIN…..1s 6d.   DECK…..1s.
No Return Tickets Issued.
_______________________________________

HEAVY GALES IN ORKNEY. – Since Friday morning last the Orkneys, and indeed the whole of the North of Scotland, have been visited by two of the heaviest gales of the season, although happily, so far as has been ascertained, there has been no loss of life or damage to shipping. This fortunate circumstance can only be accounted for by the fact that there was lacking that element of suddenness which in these seas is so prolific of disaster.

When daylight came on Friday morning, a strong northerly gale was blowing, accompanied by a heavy fall of snow, and about 9 o’clock the wind blew with the force of a hurricane, with frequent squalls of snow between. The weather having been threatening on the previous evening, none of the Kirkwall boats had proceeded to sea, so that there was awanting any cause for anxiety on that account…..


1888 March 28 Orkney Herald

THE WEATHER AND CROPS. – During the past week, owing to the inclement weather, the fishing in Orkney has been all but a blank. What little fish has been landed, realised somewhat better prices. Since Sunday, there has been a succession of squalls, accompanied with heavy snow, which has effectually prevented further operations. Yesterday the snow storm increased in intensity, and as a well-known farmer observed, “the yellow turnips were oot o’ sight.” In Kirkwall, a sea of slush formed the only walking ground for pedestrians. Of course all farming operations have been suspended, especially sowing, which had been commenced in some of the islands. When a change comes, farmers would require to be all the more active if they do not wish to lag behind.

ROUSAY – WASBISTER PUBLIC SCHOOL. – The annual concert given by the pupils of the above school, for the purpose of providing prizes, &c., was held on Friday evening last in the school. The weather turned out boisterous, but a large audience comfortably filled the building, many coming “over the hill” from Sourin. Mr Wm. Wilson, schoolmaster, Sourin, presided in a happy manner over a happy meeting. Apologies for absence were so numerous that it has been deemed advisable to repeat with additions thereto, the juvenile time of the programme, on Friday evening next; the object being to provide “Kinderspiel” music books, which will further develop the abilities of the children. The efforts of the “little ones” formed the attraction of the evening, and being supported by the senior singing class, and conducted by their schoolmaster, Mr Archibald Merrilees, they were awarded deserved encores throughout. Mrs Merrilees accompanied the musical items on the harmonium. The following selections were given by the children with appropriate gestures and distinct articulation: –

Wasbister Public School choir, aged 5 to 14 years, duet and chorus, “Good King Wenceslass” – King by James Logie, Pare by Robert Inkster; recitation “Boys’ Rights,” Hugh Craigie; glee, “Whistling Farmer Boy,” with whistling chorus, glee party; recitation, “The Young Astronomer,” David Kirkness; solo and chorus, “Mild May,” Mary Anne Inkster, soloist; recitation, “Casablanca,” David M. Leonard; solo and chorus, “Britannia,” Fred Kirkness, soloist; recitation, “Charge of the Light Brigade,” William M. Kirkness, P.T.; duet with chorus, “The Crookit Bawbee,” Isa Kirkness and James Logie, duettists; dialogue, ”Leff’s First Fiddle,” William M. Kirkness and Hugh Craigie; action song, “Merry Sailors,” descriptive of voyage, juvenile choir. These pieces were relieved by the following selections given by senior singing class – overture, “Norma,” Mr Archibald Merrilees, violin, and Mrs Merrilees. harmonium; “Te Deum,” senior choir; sacred solo, “Consider the Lilies,” William Wilson; solo and chorus, “Village Blacksmith,” Miss Craigie, Messrs Kirkness, Craigie, and Gibson, soloists; song – “Tom Bowling,” &c., George Gibson; reading, “Moral Umbrella,” William D. Gibson; choruses, “Scots Wha Hae,” and “Hail Smiling Morn,” choir; duet, ” Sixes and Sevens,” Mr and Mrs Archibald Merrilees; songs, “Village Blacksmith,” &c., Chairman; recitation, “Frenchman’s Dilemma,” Mr Archibald Merrilees.

Mr Fred B. Kirkness, in moving a vote of thanks to the performers, expressed the appreciation of the people of the admirable efforts of the children. The chairman having been thanked, the amount of the liberal silver collection announced, and the National Anthem sung, a harmonious meeting was closed, all being unanimous that they had never had such a treat before. As mentioned above, a public juvenile concert will be again given on Friday first, at 7pm. Admission free, with collection at the door.


1888 April 18 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SCOTCH GIRLS’ FRIENDLY SOCIETY. – On Friday evening the periodical meeting of the Rousay Branch of the above society was held, by the invitation of Mrs Burroughs, the amiable associate of the branch, in Trumland House. About forty members came forward, many from a far distance. Through the courtesy of General Burroughs, they were hospitably entertained in his billiard-room and annexes. Mrs Burroughs presided, and suitably addressed the girls on “Economy,” with special reference to kindness, order, thrift, &c., basing her remarks on Prov. xxxi. Tea having been served, an entertainment of song, reading, and dialogue was given by Misses Low, Marwick, and Louttit. A letter was read from the School Board granting the use of the district schools for meetings, but only on the condition of a written guarantee to repair damage that may be caused by the girls’ meetings. The girls feel it no little indignation that such a stricture should be put upon their meeting together for such laudable and educational purposes as the rules of their society imply.

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION. – The following are those nominated for election, which is to take place on the 25th curt: – Rev. Archibald McCallum, F.C. Manse; William Grieve, Falldown; Hugh Marwick, Goodall; James Gibson,  Sketquoy; John Gibson, LangskaiII; .John Mainland, Ervadale;  James Sinclair, Newhouse; William Learmonth, Faraclett. The first four are members of the present Board. One or two withdrawals are said to be imminent, but there is every prospect of a contest – five members being required.


1888 April 25 Orkney Herald

EMIGRATION. – Over one hundred emigrants have left Orkney during the last four weeks for Canada and the United States, and as many, or even more, will probably follow during the next few weeks. These emigrants have been mostly single men belonging to the artisan and farming classes, but a few domestic servants and some farmers with their families have also emigrated.


1888 May 2 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SCHOOL BOARD. – The triennial election of the School Board for the parish of Rousay and Egilshay took place on Wednesday last. The polling station was Sourin Public School, the presiding officer being Mr James G. Craigie, assisted by Mr William Reid. There were seven candidates for five seats, and the following result was made known in the evening: –

*William Grieve (F.C.), crofter……….76
Rev. Archibald McCallum (F.C.)…….75
 John Gibson (F.C.), crofter…………..65
*Hugh Marwick (U.P.), cottar…………49
 William Learmonth (E.C.), farmer…..41
 John Gibson (U.P.), farmer…………..40
 James Sinclair (U.P.), proprietor……25

Those marked with an asterisk were members of the former Board, upon whose financial policy the election mainly turned.

MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT GUILD. – On Monday the Guild met in Wasbister Public School, the president, Mr George Gibson, in the chair. An interesting paper on “What’s in a name?” was read by Master Hugh Craigie. Mr Fred B. Kirkness was announced as the essayist for the next meeting.


1888 May 2 The Scotsman

DESIRABLE FARM IN ROUSAY (ORKNEY)
FOR SALE
LANDS OF HULLION, ROUSAY

For Sale, by Private Bargain
(entry as may be arranged)

The FARM and LANDS of HULLION and others in the ISLAND of ROUSAY, ORKNEY, consisting of about 28 Acres Arable, together with the share (along with the adjoining Lands of Newhouse) of the Hill Common, extending to —– [illegible] Acres or thereby.

The Farm is in the natural occupation of the Owner, and is in good order. There are two good Dwelling-Houses of six rooms each, and a good Steading on the Lands; also a Merchant’s Shop. The Shop has suitable accommodation, and the Business is of long standing.

Annual Superior Duty (arranged for seven years), £2 5s. 5d. The Tiends are exhausted. Minister’s Stipend, £3 3s. 3d.

If not Sold by Private Bargain, the Lands will be Exposed to Public Sale (in whole or lots) on a Day to be afterwards Advertised.

For further particulars apply to Messrs HENRY & SCOTT, S.S.C., 30 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, or to the Subscribers, who have the Plan and Titles, and will receive offers.

HEDDLE & DREVER, Solicitors. KIRKWALL, 18th April 1888


1888 May 30 Orkney Herald

DEATHS. – Gibson – At Curquoy, Rousay, on the 25th inst., of a lingering illness, borne with Christian patience and resignation, Mary, beloved wife of James Gibson, farmer, Curquoy, aged 57 years.


1888 June 6 Orkney Herald

A HEAVY GALE from the south-east broke over the Orkneys on Tuesday of last week, and continued with force almost unabated till Thursday. A large number of fishing boats, principally from the east coast, put into Kirkwall, Stronsay, and Westray, and remained at one or other of these places till the end of the week…..

AN ADVENTUROUS EXCURSION. – On Tuesday two sporting expeditions started for the Stack and Skerry – one from Stromness early in the morning, and the other from Kirkwall, in the Merchant, towards evening. The Stromness boat succeeded in getting within sight of the Stack and Skerry before the gale came to its height, but soon after had to run for Loch Erriboll, Sutherlandshire, which was reached in safety. The Merchant (Capt. Cooper), which had on board Mr S. Reid, jun., and party, had a somewhat adventurous voyage. Passing through Westray Firth in the evening, with the gale still increasing, she ran to the westward until about ten or twelve miles off the Black Crag, Stromness. It was then considered, owing to the violence of the storm, expedient to put about with the idea, if possible, of gaining the shelter of the Orkney land, and lie to there until morning. An attempt was accordingly twice made to stay the vessel, but owing to the trim of her sails, on both occasions they were unsuccessful, so there was no alternative but to wear the ship. In doing so a tremendous blast struck her just as she was rounding to, tearing the mainsail from the bolt-ropes and splitting it in two. One of the party – Mr Barnett – who was assisting at the mainsheet at the time, was knocked into the lee scuppers and lay there insensible for a few minutes. After considerable difficulty the spent mainsail was stowed and a dandy-sail set; and under this rig the vessel wrought the weather until about 5 o’clock on Wednesday morning when she was off the coast of Rousay. About 7 o’clock it was found that the only course practicable was to endeavour to run up the Burgar Roost – a most dangerous tideway for a vessel in so crippled a condition to negotiate. However, with some difficulty the captain managed to take the Merchant through, and brought up in Aikerness Bay where she lay until Thursday morning. Another attempt was then made to proceed westward; but from the effects of the previous night’s storm the sea was found to be so high that, after running about eight or ten miles west of the Brough of Birsay the effort was abandoned, and it was decided to put about and run home. The anxiety of the friends of those on board ,was not relieved until the Merchant arrived in the harbour on Thursday evening.


1888 June 20 Orkney Herald

The seventy-ton sailing yacht Shiantelle (Macdonald, master) arrived in Kirkwall on Friday evening, and left yesterday morning for the North Isles. Mr Buckley, who is cruising in her on a scientific and pleasure errand, was on Monday the guest of General Burroughs at his place in Rousay. Mr Buckley intends visiting the North Isles for a week or two, returning South by way of Kirkwall.


1888 July 18 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – EDUCATIONAL. – Mr A. R. Andrew, H.M. Inspector of Schools, is visiting Rousay, and has examined Sourin Public School (Mr William Wilson, headmaster), where the deservedly high pass of 94 per cent was obtained. On Wednesday Wasbister Public School was inspected (Mr Hugh Merrilees, headmaster), after which it was intimated that the schedules return the most successful result of 98 per cent pass all over – there being no failures. Veira and Frotoft Public Schools are also being visited, and good results are likewise expected from the work of Miss Menmuir and Mr P. L. Muir respectively.


1888 July 25 Orkney Herald

In Orkney Sheriff Court yesterday, Sheriff Armour granted decree for arrears of rent against thirteen tenants and crofters on the Rousay estates of General Burroughs.

ROUSAY AND VEIRA CATTLE SHOW. – The fifteenth Cattle Show in connection with the Rousay and Veira Agricultural Society was held on Wednesday last on the farm of Banks, Sourin, and the day being all that could be desired, there was a good turnout both of cattle and spectators. The judges were Messrs Oliver Laughton, Soulisquoy; MacGregor, Warrenfield; and Sutherland, Quanterness, whose decisions gave the utmost satisfaction, and who awarded the prizes as follows:-

Purebred Bulls. – 1 (and medal), John Gibson, Langskaill; 2, William Seatter, Saviskaill; 3, George Stevenson, Scockness.
Cows. – 1. General Burroughs, Trumland; 2, George Murrison, Veira Lodge; 3, John Gibson, Langskaill.
Two-Year-Old Heifers. – 1, 2, and 3, General Burroughs; Second Class. – 1, Craigie Marwick, Breck; 2, John Gibson, Langskaill.
Two-Year-Old Steers. – General Burroughs, Avelshay.
One-Year-Old Heifers. – Medal, General Burroughs, Avelshay ; 1, William Seatter, Saviskaill: 2, Cragie Marwick. Breck; 3, William Mainland, Banks.
One-Year-Old Steers. – 1, William Learmonth, Faraclett; 2, John Gibson, Langskaill; 3, William Mainland, Banks.
Work Ox. – James Grieve, Stancroonie.
Mare and Foal. – 1, William Learmonth, Faraclett; 2, Hugh Sinclair, Swandale; 3, Robert Mainland, Banks, Frotoft.
Gold Mare. – 1, George Stevenson, Scockness; 2, Robert Gray, Hurtiso; 3, John Gibson, Sketquoy.
Two-Year-Old Colt. – 1, John Mainland, Ervadale ; 2, Frederick Kirkness, Quoyostray.
One-Year-Old Colt. – 1, William Corsie, Brendale; 2,General Burroughs, Trumland.
One-Year-Old Filly. – 1, John Gibson, Sketquoy; 2, Robert Gray, Hurtiso.
Ponies. – 1, Robert Learmonth, Faraclett; 2, G. M. McCrie, Curquoy.
Leicester Tup. – 1, John Gibson, Langskaill.
Chickens. – 1, Mrs Mainland, Banks, Frotoft; 2, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland House.
Cock. and Hen. – 1, Mrs Murrison, Veira Lodge; 2, Mrs Seatter, Saviskaill.
Ducklings. – 1, Mrs Murrison, Veira Lodge; 2, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland House.
Bantams (Cock and Hen). – Mrs Mainland, Banks, Frotoft.
Butter (Sweet). – Mrs Murrison, Veira Lodge; 2, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland House.
Butter (Salt). – 1. Mrs Murrison, Veira Lodge; 2, Mrs Burroughs, Trumland House.

After the show, the judges, committee, and a few friends sat down to an excellent dinner, when the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given and responded to.

—————————–

FARMS T0 LET ON THE ESTATE OF ROUSAY, ORKNEY

TO LET, for such number of years as may be agreed on,
with entry at Martinmas 1888.

1. The HOME FARM of TRUMLAND, ROUSAY (including the lands of Cutmoat), all as presently in the natural occupation of the Proprietor, extending to 180.632 acres or thereby of arable land and 1000 acres or thereby of Hill Pasture.

The Arable Land is in a high state of cultivation, having been all recently drained so far as required, and the greater part limed. The Sheep-run is all enclosed with a wire fence, and the ground is very suitable for a blackfaced sheep stock. The present stock is about 300. The Dwelling-House and Offices are in good order, and very commodious, the greater part of the Building being new. There is an excellent Thrashing Mill, with a plentiful supply of water.

2. The FARM of AVELSHAY, ROUSAY, likewise as presently in the natural occupation of the Proprietor, extending to 95.266 acres or thereby of Arable Land, 39.090 acres or thereby of Green Pasture, and 140 acres or thereby of Hill Pasture. The Green Pasture is nearly all capable of being brought under the plough, and almost the whole Farm is enclosed by a substantial stone fence.

The Dwelling-House is good and sufficient for the Farm. The Proprietor is prepared to improve the Steading to the requirements of the Farm. The lands of Cutmoat can be let along with Avelshay, instead of with Trumland, if desired.

Further particulars may be obtained upon application to GEORGE MURRISON,
Veira Lodge, Rousay, Factor upon the estate;
or to JOHN MACRAE S.S.C., Kirkwall.

Mr MURRISON will give directions for showing the Farms to intending Offerers,
and Offers will be received by Mr MACRAE on or before 31st August 1888.
The highest or any Offer may not be accepted.


1888 August 1 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY AND VEIRA CATTLE SHOW. – Mr William Learmonth, secretary of the society, writes to say that Mr McCrie’s pony stallion which appeared in the prize-list as having taken second place, was not intended for exhibition. It was judged by mistake in consequence of having been found among the show animals.


1888 August 1 Orkney Herald

THE ROUSAY MANSE CASE. – SHERIFF ARMOUR yesterday issued the following interlocutor in the action between the Rev. Alexander Spark, minister of Rousay, and the heritors of the parish, in connection with the repairs to be made on the manse. The matter had been remitted to Mr T. S. Peace to report as to what repairs were necessary, and to prepare plans and specifications thereof. To his report various objections were taken, which, with one exception, are now repelled and the heritors ordained to carry out the repairs specified: –

KIRKWALL, 31st July, 1888. – The Sheriff-Substitute having heard parties’ procurators, and considered the objections and the whole process,  sustains the objection by the Reverend Alexander Spark that the water main should have a gun-metal stop-cock – to the extent of allowing a gun-metal stop-cock on the lead pipe at its junction, with the cast iron pipe in place of the cast iron stop-cock mentioned in the specification; quoad ultra repels the whole of the objections under reference to the annexed note, and approves of the specifications; ordains the heritors to execute the repairs, alterations, and additions in terms of said specifications; remits to Mr Thomas Smith Peace, architect, Kirkwall, to receive tenders for the execution of said plans and specifications, to accept such tenders as shall seem best, and to superintend their execution; meantime reserves the question of expenses. (Signed) S. B. ARMOUR.

Note. – The pursuers, besides certain trifling detailed objections to be referred to, immediately object to the plans, specifications, and reports on the wider ground that “any manse, steading, and offices that may be erected in accordance therewith would be too expensive and disproportionate to the rental of the united parishes of Rousay and Egilshay.” The gross rental of the united parishes, I understand, is only £3811 1s 8d; and the operations proposed, it is estimated, will cost in round numbers £600, or nearly one-sixth of the gross rental, so that the heritors perhaps naturally complain that it is inequitable to impose so serious a burden upon them. It appears to me, however, that I am precluded from considering any general objection of this sort owing to the procedure that has already taken place. On 19th July 1887 Mr Peace, to whom a remit had been made, lodged his report and plans, and on 2nd August 1888, an interlocutor was pronounced approving of them. That interlocutor was appealed to the Lord Ordinary on teind causes, who, on 1st November 1887, pronounced an interlocutor in these terms – “Recalls the interlocutor appealed against, in so far as it ordains the heritors forthwith to carry out the operations set forth in the report in accordance with the specifications therein mentioned. Quoad ultra dismisses the appeal, and remits to the Sheriff to proceed as shall be just.” It does not appear whether advantage was taken of the appeal to object to the report and plans upon the ground now stated. If so, then the objection must have been repelled, for the interlocutor of the Sheriff-Substitute was only recalled to the limited extant just quoted: so far as it approved of the report and it is still operative. In these circumstances it is of course not competent for me to review it. The general question as to the scale upon which repairs, &c., were to be allowed was settled by the report and plans being approved of, and therefore I am precluded from reconsidering it at this stage. It is right to point out that a new plan has been substituted for the plan relating to the alterations on the steading. It only involves an additional expenditure of £10 however, and I understand that the heritors acquiesce in the substitution. It remains to consider the detailed objections to the specifications. The pursuers object firstly to the drain proposed to be cut from the cesspool to the Shore on the ground that it is unnecessary, and that the contents of the cesspool should be used for agricultural purposes. The drain is only a tile drain, and will cost about £4. The value of the contents of the cesspool for agricultural purposes would be very trifling, and if placed upon the land so near the manse would probably be a nuisance. I have therefore repelled this objection. The second objection is that the pursuers are not bound to provide a boiler in the scullery. But as houses of a certain class are finished at the present day a scullery would be incomplete without a boiler, which is, of course, a fixture supplied by the landlord, and this objection is also repelled. The cost of a boiler is about £2 2s. The third objection is that zinc sash chains are too expensive, and that rope ones should be substituted. It appears that in the somewhat damp climate of Orkney ropes last a very short time, and that since the zinc chains were introduced, nothing else had been used. The difference in cost amounts to only 2s. a window. The objection has been repelled. The fourth and last objection is that the sum of £8 10s., proposed to be provided for chimney-pieces to the dining and drawing-rooms, is exorbitant and unreasonable. I am informed that this sum represents the lowest price at which marble chimney-pieces can be got, so that the only alternative would be painted wood or iron. Looking to the principles which have been laid down, and the repairs and alterations which have been sanctioned in the more recent cases, I do not feel justified in holding that the proposal here is exorbitant or unreasonable, and the objection has therefore been repelled. Apart from the above objections, the heritors intimate their acquiescence in the plans, specifications, and reports.

Objections have also been lodged by the Reverend Alexander Spark as regards (1) the Manse; (2) the garden; (3) the steading.

1. The Manse: – The only objection sustained is No. 10, that the water-main should have a gun-metal stop-cock as that proposed would soon become unworkable from rust. On the suggestion of the reporter, I have authorised the suggestion mentioned in the foregoing interlocutor. There will be no additional cost, for the lead pipe is considerably smaller in diameter than the cast-iron pipe upon which it was originally proposed to place the stop-cock. Objections 1 to 9, which relate more or less to alleged structural defects in the present building, are repelled on the simple ground that the reports, plans, and specifications obviate the defects complained of, so far as is reasonable and possible, taking all the circumstances into consideration. Objection 11, to the effect that the bedroom accommodation is insufficient, and that at least two additional bedrooms should be provided is repelled on two grounds. First, that to sustain it would involve a substantial interference with the plan, which was approved of on 2d August 1887, and from that I am precluded as already explained. Further, even were it open for me to decide the question I should have little hesitation in holding that the accommodation provided is reasonable and sufficient. If the room downstairs be used as a bedroom – for it is too good a room for a laundry – that would give four excellent bedrooms, besides two good attic-rooms. To hold that the heritors are bound to provide two additional bedrooms would, it appears to me, be pushing their legal liability too far, considering the proportion which the repairs and additions already bears to the gross rental, the amount of the stipend (£97 9s 2d), and all the circumstances connected with the parish. Objection 12, that the W.C. should not be placed over the larder, is repelled after consultation with the reporter. Keeping in view that the drain pipe is entirely outside the house, there does not appear to be any substance in the objection. Similarly objection 13 is repelled. The chimney stalk at the back of the manse is required for the scullery boiler, and it could only be removed at great expense.

2. The Garden Wall. An objection is taken that “the defender is entitled to have his garden enclosed with a wall built of ……” Looking to the provision in the specification for repairing and re-building the garden wall, it is probably sufficient to say that this objection is unintelligible.

3. The Steading. The objections under this head are (1) that byre accommodation for at least two more cattle should be provided; and (2) a dwelling-house for a man in connection with the steading. Looking to the terms of the interlocutor of 23rd April 1887, by which a remit was made to a man of skill to report inter alia what repairs were necessary to furnish “a suitable and sufficient steading for the proper working of the glebe to the extent of four acres of arable land;” and considering that accommodation is provided for six cattle, it appears to me that the defender has been generously dealt with, and I would not be justified in sustaining the objection, Still less would I be justified in ordaining the heritors to build a dwelling-house for a man in connection with the steading. No authority was quoted for such a demand, and I am not aware of any legal ground upon which it can be made. The defender offers to take over the barn as it at present exists, and at his own expense adapt it to this purpose. Such an offer, however, I have no power to compel the heritors to accept even if I were disposed to do so, which I am not, as I am assured that the barn is not structurally sufficient, and could not be made so. Another consideration is, that were it converted into a dwelling-house the heritors would require to repair and maintain it in time to come. In conclusion, it is proper to state that, before dealing with the foregoing objections, I had the advantage of inspecting the premises personally along with the reporter, with whom I consulted as to each individual item. – (Intd.) S. B. A. – Agent for Mr Spark, Mr Thomson; for the heritors, Mr Macrae.


1888 August 15 Orkney Herald

The lands of Hullion, Rousay, the sale of which was fixed for to-day (Wednesday), have been disposed of by private bargain, and the advertisement is consequently withdrawn.


1888 August 17 Peterhead Sentinel

The Reverend Alexander Spark, erstwhile minister of Boddam, has been little heard of since he immured himself in the lonely solitude of Rousay; but it may interest his many friends and acquaintances in this quarter to hear that he is conducting a lively and interesting litigation with his heritors in regard the condition of his manse. It was at one time in the Court of Session; but latterly it has been under the cognizance of the Sheriff-Substitute of Orkney, who has just issued a most elaborate and lengthy decision. His lordship sustains the claim of Mr Spark that his water-main should have a gun-metal stop-cock, but he refuses a whole lot of other claims by Mr Spark, who has apparently been demanding bed-room accommodation for two more people and byre accommodation for two more cattle, and sundry other luxuries. Still, Mr Spark, I gather from the interlocutor, has made good his title to “zinc sash chains” for his windows (the heritors wanted to put him off with ropes) and white marble chimney-pieces in his dining and drawing room; and he has triumphantly vindicated the claim of a parish minister be provided with a boiler in his scullery at the expense of the heritors. Altogether Mr Spark is to have his manse repaired and altered to an extent involving a cost of £600, which is nearly a sixth of the gross rental of his parish. And I suppose after all a minister perhaps preaches none the worse because he has been fighting with the heritors over gun-metal stop-cocks and zinc sash chains.


1888 August 29 Orkney Herald

In the Orkney Sheriff Court yesterday – the Hon. Sheriff-substitute Irvine on the bench – several Small Debt summonses were disposed of, and decrees for arrears of rent were obtained against two of General Burroughs’ tenants.


1888 September 5 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY –  ANNUAL REGATTA. – This yearly event came off on Wednesday last, in Veira Sound – Trumland Pier being the starting and winning post. The energetic committee were early on the spot to measure the boats and conclude arrangements. Favourable weather and the interesting occasion drew out a great crowd of spectators. General Burroughs, C.B., the hon. commodore, was accompanied by his lady; Mr A. G. Cameron, Burgar House, hon. vice-commodore; Colonel Scott, Miss Scott; Mr Alex. Henderson, Caithness; Mr D. Henderson, Miss Henderson; Captain Cheape. Mr A. Merrilees, vice-commodore, kept the time, and judged the handicaps; Mr A. Munro fired the gun; and Mr P. L. Muir acted as secretary and treasurer…..Miss Scott gracefully presented the prizes, addressing a kind word to each of the winners. Three cheers were given to the lady visitors, subscribers, committee, and strangers. The Treasurer desires to acknowledge the handsome donations of the Trumland House party and other friends.


1888 September 21 Glasgow Herald

CROFTERS COMMISSION IN ORKNEY.

GENERAL BURROUGHS’S TENANTRY.

(From our Special Correspondent.)
Kirkwall, Thursday Night.

The Commission held a sitting in the Kirkwall Court-house to-day to hear evidence from the island Rousay, the property of General Burroughs. There has been more disturbance on this property than on any in Orkney, and the Royal Commission in 1883 considered this one of the few places where rack-renting existed. The witnesses crossed from Rousay to Kirkwall in their own boats to be present at the sitting.

Mr ROBERTSON, solicitor, Kirkwall, appearing for General Burroughs, made a brief preliminary statement about the property. He said an arrangement had been come to by which the proprietor should pay the whole poor rates and the tenants the whole road rates. It was said that this had been an advantage to the proprietor, but that was not the case, for up till 1884 he had paid £591 over what the half of both rates would have been. He had erected a pier at a cost of £620, and charged no dues. The evidence was then proceeded with, and in nearly every case the most remarkable feature was the extraordinary rises of rent.

In the first case the witness said that prior to 1852 his rent was £6. It had then been raised to £9; in 1871 to £11; and in l879 to £15. No land had been added during that time, but he had been deprived of the right of grazing on Kierfea Hill.

In the second case the applicant said he had succeeded to the croft in 1882 at a rent of £4, and it was still the same. He had been along with his father before that, but he did not know when his father had paid rent last.

Mr ROBERTSON explained that the applicant’s father had sat from 1864 to 1881 without paying any rent.

Mr THOMSON said he could not pass over that statement. There was something behind it which the Commission should know. The applicant had told him that there had been an arrangement made with the factor by which he (the witness) got the croft for nothing, on condition that he should keep his father and mother from being paupers, An arrangement had been made as already explained by which General Burroughs paid the whole poor rates, and the tenants the whole road rates. There was, therefore, a bit of policy in this arrangement apparently for the benefit of the applicant. As long as they had the croft Colonel Burroughs had not to pay them an allowance as paupers. It was not a bad move at all. (Laughter.)

The CHAIRMAN (to witness) – You prevented your father and mother from becoming paupers? – A. Yes, my Lord, at that time.

And thereby saved General Burroughs paying rates for your father and mother? – A. Yes, my Lord.

In another case during the day Mr THOMSON said there had been a similar giving of poor-rates. The tenant was an old widow, who had been sitting rent free for some years. She had been left with a young family, and had brought them up with her own work. She had got no parochial assistance.

In most of the other cases the rises of rent were the only remarkable point. There had been a general raising of the rent in 1859, 1872, and 1879, with the result that rents were more than doubled during the time. No change had been made in the holdings except the reclamations effected by the tenants themselves. In every case the witnesses complained of the loss of grazing as well as the rise of rent.

The CHAIRMAN asked one man if rents never came down in Rousay, and he replied that they always went up.

One case which gave rise to a good deal of discussion, and brought out more than ordinary interest, was that of an applicant who said he had succeeded to a tenant, James Leonard, four years ago.

Mr THOMSON drew the attention of the Commissioners to the evidence given by this James Leonard before Lord Napier’s Commission.

Mr ROBERTSON objected that it was quite irrelevant to the present case, but the Chairman allowed the matter to be gone into.

Mr THOMSON pointed out that Lord Napier had asked General Burroughs to give his word that Leonard would not be disturbed for giving his evidence. This General Burroughs had declined to do, and he accordingly evicted him immediately after having built a new house.

Mr ROBERTSON – He got compensation.

Mr THOMSON – That is denied.

The witness, being examined by the CHAIRMAN, said that James Leonard was his brother-in-law, and had preceded him in the holding. He had given evidence before Lord Napier’s Commission, and after he gave the evidence he was put out of the croft.

The CHAIRMAN took up the report of the Royal Commission, and quoted at some length from General Burroughs’ statement, in which he justified himself for turning out a man who would be troublesome on the property.

Mr ROBERTSON said that General Burroughs never acknowledged Leonard as his tenant, but Leonard’s father.

Mr THOMSON said he would accept that, as in that case the present applicant, as son-in-law could claim the house he had entered, and for which his brother-in-law, Leonard, had got no compensation.

When all the cases called for to-day were disposed of, Mr THOMSON drew the attention of the Commissioners to the fact that the rental of Rousay in 1854 was £1289, while according to the statement made by Mr Robertson to-day it was now £3184. This meant a rise of about 200 per cent. since 1854.

The CHAIRMAN said that somebody’s rents must have got up.

The remainder of the Rousay cases will be heard to-morrow.


1888 September 22 Glasgow Herald

CROFTERS COMMISSION IN ORKNEY.

GENERAL BURROUGHS’S TENANTRY.

(From our Special Correspondent.)
Kirkwall, Friday Night.

The Commissioners held another sitting here today to consider applications from the island of Rousay, the property of General Burroughs. Mr Robertson, solicitor, Kirkwall, again appeared for General Burroughs and Mr Thomson, solicitor, Kirkwall, for the crofters. As on the previous day, the most remarkable feature of the inquiry was the systematic rises of rent on the tenants’ own improvements.

The first crofter examined had only occupied his place for 14 years, and in 1878 the rent had been raised from £1 to £3. He got no additional land for that, but had since been deprived of hill grazing, which had been added to a farm.

In the second case, which was that of an older tenant, the rent had been raised from 10s to £3 10s in 1867, to £4 in 1872, and to £6 in 1879. As in the other case, no land had been added, but hill pasture had been taken away.

Another witness said he had been a sub-tenant on a farm till 1860 at a rent of £3, when the proprietor took him over, and his rent made a sudden jump to £10. He got no more land for that.

The CHAIRMAN – You just had the privilege of paying £10. (Laughter.)

Witness said the rent had again been raised to £12 in 1878, and no change made in the croft. He had spent £200 on the croft himself, and had no money left now.

In most of the cases there were heavy sums of arrears due, and in a good many decrees for arrears had been obtained before the passing of the Amendment Act.

The CHAIRMAN remarked that the Commissioners had not been on an estate where so many actions for rent had been raised.

Some general evidence as to the destruction by game was led by Mr THOMSON from George Reid, crofter, who appeared for his father. Before coming to this evidence, and while giving in detail the improvements made on the holding, Reid explained that he had written to General Burroughs saying that he was going to apply to the Commission, and asking for information about some drainage done. He received a reply from the factor, instructed by General Burroughs, to the effect that the proprietor would furnish the Commission with information, and it was unreasonable of him to expect that the proprietor would assist him with information to be used in a claim against himself. Both the letters were produced, and….

The CHAIRMAN, having read them, said – I think it right to say that there was nothing unreasonable. lt is a very respectful letter, and why the estate should refuse to give the information I do not see.

In continued examination, the witness said his father’s rent had been raised from £9 to £10 in 1867, and one acre arable and three acres outrun taken away in 1872 without any change on the croft, and in 1879 it was raised from £15 to £25, with 16½ acres of hill ground added. Having made the calculation, the CHAIRMAN said – That is 14s 9d, an acre for hill; it seems pretty smart. (Laughter.)

Concerning the question of game, the witness said the hares and grouse were preserved in Rousay, and that great damage was done to turnips by the hares, and to corn stooks by the grouse.

The CHAIRMAN – Does the Ground Game Act not extend to Rousay? – Yes; but it is practically of no use.

How? – Because before the Crofters Act passed if a tenant was known to keep a gun he might look out at the term.

And the same good old feeling still prevails. Have you got a gun now? – No; not for 20 years.

Is the landlord a strict game preserver? – We think that anyhow.

Mr THOMSON – Is it notorious that there is more game in Rousay than anywhere else in Orkney?

Over twenty cases were disposed of, which concluded the evidence from Rousay.

Mr ROBERTSON then read a statement which had been prepared by Colonel Burroughs to be submitted to the Commission. Before reading it, he briefly alluded to an insinuation made once or twice that when tenants sat rent free it was to the advantage of the proprietor, as he had undertaken to pay all the poor-rates. He would meet that insinuation with a statement he had previously made, that the proprietor lost over £570 up till 1884 by this arrangement.

Mr ROBERTSON then read General Burroughs’s statement, which was of great length, and showed with considerable detail the improvement on the state of Orkney in general, and the island of Rousay in particular, since the year 1840. Since purchasing he had expended £40,000 on it, the circumstances of the people had improved very much, and he did not believe the statements that were made about their poverty. He instanced the number of ministers and schoolmasters now in the island.

The CHAIRMAN asked if General Burroughs meant to suggest that the spiritual and educational provision was excessive? (Laughter.)

Mr ROBERTSON said it was just to show the advance in all respects. The statement gave with great detail the many advantages which the Rousay tenants enjoyed, and concluded with the expression of General Burroughs’s belief that it was outside agitators that had spread the feeling of discontent among his tenants.

Mr THOMSON replied that the statement was exactly on the lines and breathing the spirit he would have expected from the source it came. It was in harmony with General Burroughs’s general actions. As regarded the question of poor-rates, he would not accept Mr Robertson’s statement. Whatever it might be in general, he would maintain that the particular case he had brought forward was clearly a case of finessing on the part of General Burroughs to get rid of paying poor-rates by giving a woman her croft free, and getting her son to keep her. lt had been stated that £40,000 had been expended by General Burroughs on the estate, but before accepting that he would require to get the statement detailed, as a large portion of that had been spent on General Burroughs’s residence, on steadings for big farms, and on enclosing hills to keep out the crofters. (Laughter.) With regard to the statement that there were four ministers to 1100 souls, Mr Thomson remarked that it should be known that the number of souls in Rousay had decreased from 1263 to 1118 in General Burroughs’s time, which showed that he had made Rousay rather hot for them. (Laughter.) As to the manner in which General Burroughs had treated his tenants, the evidence led before the Court would show that the rents of crofts had been quadrupled during his time. The numerous actions which he had raised against his tenants clearly indicated the manner in which he dealt with them. Mr Thomson was glad to say that this was the only estate in Orkney where such harshness had been dealt out to crofters.

The final sitting in Orkney will be held to-morrow.


1888 September 26 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – WASBISTER PUBLIC SCHOOL. – The annual distribution of prizes in connection with this school took place on Tuesday last week. The Rev. Archibald McCallum, chairman of the School Board, presided; and Miss McCallum gracefully handed over the various awards to the winners. Amongst the gathering of spectators were – Mr John Gibson, Sketquoy, member of the School Board for Wasbister; Mr and Mrs William Marwick, Mrs John Gibson, Langskaill; Mrs John Logie, Mrs William Inkster, Miss Kirkness, Quoys; Messrs Hugh Inkster, R. G. Gordon, &c. The following kinderspeil programme was performed by the pupils conducted by their schoolmaster, Mr Archibald Merrilees – Mrs Merrilees being harmonium accompanist: –

Musical drill chorus, “Exercise.” Duet and chorus, “Good King Wenceslas” – James Logie, “King;” Robert Inkster, “Page.” Action song, with whistling chorus, “Whistling Farmer Boy.” Action duet and chorus, “Crookit  Bawbee,” James Kirkness and James Logie. Descriptive chorus, “Merry Sailors’ Voyage.”

The chairman, in well chosen words, congratulated teachers and taught upon their intelligent acting, and said that the excellence of H. M. Inspector’s report was fully deserved. Appended is the prize list: –

Orkney and Zetland Association’s prizes, gained by public competition – 1, David M. Leonard; 2, Mary E. Kirkness; 3, James Logie; Hugh Craigie. Individual attendance prizes, gifted by the School Board – Alexina Craigie, Jemima Craigie, and William Craigie – all 100 per cent. Family attendance prize, provided by funds raised by concerts given by the pupils, conducted by the schoolmaster – 1, Hugh Craigie, 99 per cent; 2, Alfred Gibson, 98 per cent; 3, David M. Leonard, 96 per cent; 4, Mary Jessie Inkster, 95 per cent; 5, Hugh Gibson, 94 per cent; 6, Mary Ann Inkster, 93 per cent; 7, Isabella Kirkness, 91 per cent; Maggie Ann Kirkness, Jemima Craigie, and Alexina Craigie, 90 per cent. Ninety-one per cent and over received a Post Office Savings Bank deposit as share of value of medal, the others getting books. Certificates of merit were awarded to those who passed their respective standards before H. M. Inspector – all pupils presented having passed. Book prizes were given for intelligent progress to deserving pupils – attendance and punctuality being considered – James Inkster, John Marwick, Elizabeth Marwick, Alexina Craigie, and Maggie Gibson. All the infants were similarly encouraged. Good conduct prizes were voted by the scholars to the following: – 1, Margaret Jessie Louttit; 2, John Logie; 3, James Logie; 4, Isabella Kirkness and Mary Annie Kirkness, equal.

SCHOOL REPORT. – H. M. Inspector has issued the following report on Wasbister Public School: –  

Under Mr Archibald Merrilees’ rigorous and intelligent teaching, this school is doing capital work. An excellent appearance has been made in the elementary subjects, the work being accurate, intelligent in quality, and neat in execution. In the class subjects of English, recitation of poetry has decidedly improved since last year. Grammar also showed sound grasp. Very good work had been done in geography and history. A beginning has been made at teaching elementary science. The teacher had aimed at doing too much, but on the whole a fair appearance was made. If the subject is to be continued, more illustrative diagrams and apparatus must be provided. Needlework (Sch. III) was professed as a class subject, with good results. The training of the lower classes was thoroughly efficient. Singing was exceptionally good. Excellent discipline and class drill. W. M. Kirkness has passed fairly.


1888 September 26 Orkney Herald

THE CROFTERS COMMISSION IN KIRKWALL.

The Crofters Commissioners resumed their sittings at Kirkwall last Wednesday, when the remainder of the cases from the Graemshall estate, and applications from Kirkwall and St Ola, were taken up. Thursday and Friday were occupied with the cases from the estate of General Burroughs  of Rousay.

FRIDAY

The Commissioners – Messrs Brand and Hosack – resumed consideration of the applications from the Rousay estate. The attendance was large, and the liveliest interest seemed to be manifested in the proceedings, the outstanding feature of which was the number of actions against the crofters that were brought to light, and decrees for arrests obtained against them. In regard to those which were obtained prior to the passing of the Act, Mr Brand more than once pointed out that they could not be considered as arrears. Mr Robertson appeared for General Burroughs.

The first case taken up was the continued application of Simpson Skethaway, Knarston, for fair rent. On the previous day the applicant had been objected to by Mr Robertson on the ground that he was a joint-tenant of the holding with John Gibson at a rent of £60, while on the other hand Mr Thomson contended that it was a separate tenancy; that in fact, each held a half, and paid separate rents and taxes. He now produced the rent receipts from 1876 to 1888 bearing out this assertion, while Mr Robertson handed in a lease showing joint-tenancy entered into between Gibson and S. Skethaway’s father-in-law, James Craigie, which expired in 1862.

The witness Skethaway (recalled) deposed that he had a separate dwelling-house and steading. He had executed repairs on his steading, which be paid for himself. Mr Gibson did not contribute.

Mr BRAND – You have your own bank account, I suppose? (Laughter.)

Witness – Yes, my lord.

In further examination, witness said he had been 29 years on the holding. At that time Gibson’s father was tenant of one-half. Witness’s father-in-law had the other half, and they paid separate rents. Witness was £30 in arrears. The stock was 3 cows, 3 one-year-olds, 2 calves, 2 ewes, 1 lamb, and 2 horses. Had broken in 15½ acres.

By Mr ROBERTSON – He and Mr Gibson divided the crop on the field. Their cattle pastured together.

By the COURT – They had separate teams of horses, and separate harness and carts; but they had not separate land. His rent was £30, and that was all for which he considered himself liable. He would not consider himself liable for Gibson’s rent in the event of his being unable to pay it. Sometimes Gibson had paid his rent when witness was not ready to pay. When witness was behind General Burroughs had never asked Gibson to pay for him.

Mr ROBERTSON here produced a lease dated 1854 for 9 years between General Burroughs and Gibson and John Craigie (witness’s father-in-law) showing that there was a joint tenancy at that time.

John Gibson, the other tenant on Knarston, was next examined. He had 30 acres 1 rood 24 poles arable. He had occupied for 32 years past his present house and steading. In the other house James Craigie (father-in-law of Skethaway) was living. He cultivated the land along with him the same as he did with Skethaway. He had broken in 15½ acres. His stock was 3 cows, 4 one-year-olds, 3 calves, 4 sheep, 2 horses, and a foal.

By the COURT – These were different animals from those enumerated by Skethaway. Each bought and sold his own stock, and bore his profits and losses separately.

Examination resumed – Had built 2 byres, a stable, and potato house at his own expense.

By Mr ROBERTSON – In Craigie’s time each paid his own half of the rent. General Burroughs had never asked him for Skethaway’s arrears.

Shown a letter bearing to be signed by himself and Skethaway, in which the joint tenancy was accepted by them, witness denied that the signature was his. He did not authorise anyone to sign it for him.

Simpson Skethaway (recalled) admitted that the signature on the same letter was his. At the time he signed it Gibson was at Stronsay for the fishing.

Gibson (recalled) said he had never seen the letter till that day.

Mr ROBERTSON said that beyond the fact that Mr Murrison received the latter he could say nothing as to the signature.

Mr BRAND said Mr Robertson would require to prove something more than he had done. His case was not proved on the evidence as it stood.

James Grieve, Stancrownie, Sourin, had 4½ acres arable and 4½ outrun. The stock he had was 1 cow, 1 work ox, and 2 sheep. The rent was £3; arrears, £7. Had occupied it 14 years, and broken in 2½ acres. Had spent £20 on buildings. He put in 30 chains of couple stone drains, and 15 chains of ditch. The only contribution he had from the landlord was wood. His rent was raised in 1878 from £1 3s to its present figure, and Knitchin hill was taken away.

By Mr ROBERTSON – All the improvements were done under the lease produced.

Alex. Leonard, Gripps, was represented by his son Malcolm (47), who deposed that the croft measured 12 acres arable and 1 acre outrun. The stock was 1 entire horse and 1 ewe. The rent was £6; arrears, £22. His father had been 53 years in the holding, and had broken in the whole of it, the last of it being finished about a year ago. He had put in 50 chains of drains and 16 chains of ditch. The rent was raised in 1857 from 10s to £3 10s; in 1878 to £4; in 1879 to £6, no land being added.

By Mr ROBERTSON – Two years ago he sold turnips and straw off the place. He had sold 2 pigs this year. The landlord allowed his father an abatement of a third of the rent for seven years £8 3s 4d.

Mr BRAND – The £8 3s 4d is judiciously spread over a good many years.

Robert Grieve, Whitehall, was represented by his son William, who said they had 7¾ acres arable and 6¾ acres outrun. His stock was 1 cow, 1 work ox, 1 ewe, and 1 lamb. The rent was £5; arrears, £9 10s. His father had occupied the place for 25 years and broken in 6¾ acres. Had spent £50 on houses, besides making ditches, drains, &c. The rent was raised in 1872 from £3 to £3 10s, and in 1879 to £5

James Mainland, Gorehouse (69), deposed he had 15 acres 2 roods 13 poles arable, and 12 acres 31 poles outrun. He had 2 cows, 1 calf, 1 stirk, and 1 horse. The rent was £12; arrears, £15. He had been in occupation 38 years, and reclaimed 13 acres. There were only 2 acres under the plough when he went there. There was a small house on the holding, but he was never in it. Had spent £80 on buildings. He put in 30 chains of drains, for which the proprietor had not paid him. He was allowed one-third of his rent off by Mr Scarth for drains and ditches. His rent was £3, and took a sudden jump to £10 in 1860; in 1878 it rose to £12 – no change in the croft.

James Marwick. Gripps, was the next applicant on the list, but Mr Mackenzie, the secretary to the Commission, stated that the man had gone to America.

Mr THOMSON, in withdrawing the application, said that before going, Marwick had squared up with the proprietor.

John Craigie, Lower Gripps, deposed that he had 6 acres 3 poles arable; 4 acres 24 poles outrun. He had 1 cow, 1 calf, 1 ewe. The rent was £4; arrears, £6. For 31 years he had been in the place, and his father 26 years before him. He had reclaimed 4 acres. His father and he had put up all the buildings. The total reclamation was 2 acres 2 roods. His rent was raised in l857 from 12s 6d to £3; in 1872 to £3 13s; and in 1879 to £4. His common grazing was taken away in 1874, and he had now none.

By Mr ROBERTSON – He had sold a ewe and a lamb this year. He kept hens. (A laugh.)

Mr ROBERTSON – It may be taken for granted, my lord, that all the applicants have hens.

Mr BRAND – It may be taken for granted that this man has. (Laughter.)

James Cooper, Pretty, had 8 acres arable, and 5 acres 2 roods outrun. He had 1 horse, 1 cow, and 4 sheep. The rent was £5 5s; arrears £18 17s. Witness had been there 5 years. His grandfather settled on the bare hill. They put up all the buildings, and reclaimed all the land. In 1857 the rent was raised to £3; then to £4 10s; and finally to the present sum.

By Mr ROBERTSON – When his mother died in 1882 the arrears were wiped out. He did not know the amount.

Mr BRAND – Then we will take the statement from you, Mr Robertson.

Mr ROBERTSON – The arrears forgiven her were £19 5s, and so he started fair.

Mr BRAND (to witness) – You are 3½ years in arrears now. It is not that you have not paid a fair rent, but that you have not paid any rent at all.

George Reid, (81), Wasdale, was represented by his son, William, who said the croft comprised 22 acres 7 roods 7 poles arable, and 33 acres 3 poles outrun. The stock was 3 cows, 2 stirks, 3 calves, 2 sheep, 1 lamb, 2 horses, and a foal. The rent was £25; arrears reduced to £12.

Mr BRAND observed that a tenant occupied a very much better position who paid his arrears as well as he could. That had been done in the present case.

Witness (resuming), said his father had occupied the place 39 years, reclaimed 14½ acres, and put up buildings at a cost of £85. His father’s rent was raised in 1857 from £9 to £10; and 1 acre arable and 3 outrun taken off. In 1872 it was further raised to £15; in 1879 to £25, and 16½ acres of hill added.

Mr BRAND – 14s 9d an acre for hill! It sounds pretty smart. (A laugh.)

By Mr THOMSON – Hares and grouse were preserved in Rousay, and the turnips on the greater part of the holdings were very much cut by the hares.

Mr BRAND – Does the Ground Game Act not extend to Orkney?

Witness replied that it was practically of no use. It used to be it they had a gun and destroyed them, they would have to look out at the term.

Mr BRAND – The same good old feeling still prevails. (Laughter)

Witness said it was 20 years since he kept a gun.

Mr BRAND – Is the landlord a strict game preserver?

Mr THOMSON – It is notorious that there is more game in Rousay than anywhere else in Orkney.

Examination resumed – Is the place subject to grub? – Yes.

Is finger-and-toe very common? – Very common, and I suppose General Burroughs himself has a good share of it. (Laughter.)

Mr ROBERTSON – Have the people taken advantage of that Act to kill off the hares? – I could not say.

Mr ROBERTSON remarked that since the Ground Game Act passed the shepherd’s wages was lowered in respect of the facilities it gave them for extra money.

Mr BRAND observed that the estate conditions and regulations reserved to the proprietor the whole game, with full power and liberty to hunt, shoot, and course without compensation to the tenant for trespass except in cases of damage done by excessive preservation to the growing crops.

By the COURT – Are there a great number of grouse on the island? – I have seen a hundred together at a time on our stooks.

Mr BRAND – They must be very fond of your stooks, but I suppose they go from one place to another.

Mr ROBERTSON having produced a lease in this case,

David Flaws, Hammerfield, was called. He said his croft was 14 acres arable, and 2 acres outrun in extent. He had 2 cows, 1 one-year-old, 1 calf, 1 ewe and a lamb, and 1 horse. The rent was £7. He had occupied the place for 5 years; broken in 12 acres (he and his father and grandfather) and spent £30 on the buildings. He had put in 200 chains over and above what was paid for by the proprietor. The rises in rent were from £3 to £5 in 1854; in 1863 to £5 15s; and in 1872 to £7.

By Mr ROBERTSON – All that he had sold this year was a one-year-old and a calf, and some young pigs.

Alex. Corsie (70) Cruisdy, Frotoft, had 3 acres 3 roods 15 poles arable; outrun, 7 acres 3 roods 37 poles. The rent was £5; arrears, £7 10s. He had occupied the croft 36 years; his mother had is 30 years before him. Had broken in 2½ acres, and put up all the buildings at a cost of £35. He had trenched fully a quarter of an acre. The rent was raised in 1872 from £2 to £5. He got another croft added in at the time called Upper Cruisdy. He lost the right of grazing on some of the commons in 1880. He had to buy “crop” every year before he could keep a cow.

Robert Inkster, Swartifield, was represented by his son John. He deposed that the area of his croft was 6 acres 2 roods 36 poles arable; outrun 12 acres 4 roods. The rent was £6; arrears, £12. His father had occupied the croft 45 years, and his grandfather 8 years. His father reclaimed 4 acres, and put up all the buildings at a cost of £50. The rent was raised in 1864 from £1 5s to £3; in 1875 to £5.

Mr ROBERTSON – He had two other crofts added.

Examination resumed – The stock was 1 horse, 1 cow, 1 stirk, 1 sheep, and 1 calf.

By Mr ROBERTSON – Recently a sheep and a cow had been sold.

John Craigie, Blackhammer, had 1½ acres arable, and 9½ outrun. The rent was £2 10s. He had one cow – that was the whole.

Mr BRAND – Well, it is a very select stock indeed. (Laughter.)

Examination resumed – His arrears were £4 5s on Whitsunday, but he had paid £1 in August. Had been in occupation of the croft 24 years, and his father 21 before him. His uncle preceded his father, and did all the reclamation and building. In 1865 the rent was raised from 10s to 15; in 1873 to 30s ; and in 1880 to £2 10s.

By Mr ROBERTSON – He went to the fishing and worked, besides, as a day labourer.

John Craigie, Deith, deposed to having 2 acres arable; outrun, 11 acres. His stock was 1 cow. The rent was £4; arrears, £3. He had occupied the place 25 years, and broken in 1¾ acres. He had spent £30 on buildings, and done ditching and draining. In 1872 the rent was raised from 17s 6d to £1 15s; and in 1879 to £3.

Magnus Alexander, Wasbister, had evidence given on his behalf by his son James. He deposed that the area of their croft was 2½ acres arable and 7¼ acres outrun.

Mr ROBERTSON mentioned that Alexander was a sub-tenant. The application, therefore, should be served on the principal tenant – Alexander Craigie, Feolquoy. He did not make any objection, however, to the case going on.

Examination resumed – The stock was 1 cow, 1 calf, 1 ewe, and 1 pig. The rent was £2 10s. It was paid to Alexander Craigie. His father had occupied 13 years, and broken in 1½ acres, built a byre and 3 sheds at a cost of £8. He had put in 15 chains couple and stone drains, and 4 chains of dyke. The rent was raised in 1879 from to £1 to £2 10s.

By the COURT – His father worked for Craigie.

John Inkster, Little Cogar (48), said the area of his croft was 1¾ acres arable and 7¾ acres outrun. His stock was 1 cow and a pig. The rent was £3 5s; arrears £2 11s 7d. Occupied 24 years; broken in ½ an acre, and put up buildings at a cost of £35. He had trenched ½ an acre, and made drains and ditches. Has no common grazing now.

By the COURT – He was the skipper of a boat, and a School Board officer. (laughter.) He had a third share of one boat, and a fourth share of another.

By Mr ROBERTSON – Sometimes there was good fishing in Saviskaill Bay, but it was a very dangerous place.

John Craigie, Shalter, a sub-tenant of Alexander Craigie, Feolquoy, had 2½ acres arable and 7¼ acres outrun. Had 1 cow, 1 ewe, and 1 Iamb. The rent was £2; no arrears. Had occupied 24 years. It was 50 years since his father went there. They had broken in all the land, and erected all the buildings. The rent up to 1864 was 6d; then 10s; next £1; and finally £2.

By Mr ROBERTSON – He had realised about £4 10s from the sale of stock recently.

After luncheon, the Commissioners proceeded with the Rousay cases.

Hugh Craigie, Turbitail, was the first of four applicants for fair rent from the farm of Langskaill, in the occupation of Mr John Gibson.

Mr DREVER said he had an explanation and objection to make in regard to these applications. The total acreage of Langskaill was 184 acres 2 roods 6 poles arable and 741 acres 2 roods 3 poles outrun, making a total of 925 acres 3 roods 16 poles, of which the rent was £170. The total acreage of the farm itself was 139; outrun 710 – total 849, and the rest per acre of the arable £1 0s 4d, or arable and outrun together 3s 4d. The area of the cottars was 34 acres 1 rood 16 poles arable, and 31 acres outrun – total 65. Of this the rate per acre, excluding the outrun, was 11s 7d, and with the outrun 6s 1d. The principal tenant here, he might say, lived on amicable terms with his crofters. He was bound, however, by a covenant in his lease to remove these crofters at the expiry of his 19 year’s lease, which was entered into at Martinmas 1881. This private covenant was between himself and his landlord, and was not subject to the jurisdiction of the Commissioners or the provisions of the Crofters Act, with which it was inconsistent. That being so, if he acquiesced in the claim of the applicants to be considered crofters and to have a fair rent fixed, it would be impossible for him to fulfil his covenant with the over-landlord.

Mr BRAND – A private covenant is always subject to the supervening effects of an Act of Parliament.

Mr DREVER – Yes, if it be intended, and the Act does cut down private covenants, which we contend the Crofters Act does not in this case. It neither does so expressly or by implication. On the contrary, while the Crofters Act made provision for a case of hardship like this in applications for enlargement of holdings, and authorised a readjustment of the bargain, it made none in applications for fair rent, and these crofts were part of this large farm. The principal tenant had no wish to press parties to extremes; he only wished to place before the Commissioners the truth of the matter, as it affected his relations with the over-landlord.

Mr BRAND – That is quite fair. I think you, as acting for a statutory landlord, are bound to state these things. It would be very serious for you if the objection did not appear on the face of the proceedings. What we may do with it is a very different matter.

Mr DREVER went on to say that by the second covenant of the lease Mr Gibson was allowed to sub-let the cots on the farm, subject to a certain veto on the part of General Burroughs. These lands of Langskaill, prior to 1843, belonged to the principal tenant’s  ancestors, and at the date mentioned they were sold by James Gibson, dyer in Edinburgh, to an ancestor of General Burroughs for a small price. Part of the purchase arrangement was that a long lease of 36 years was to be entered into at a rent of £30 with two nephews of the seller. That least expired in 1881, when the present lease was entered into at a rent of £170. That would account to some extent for General Burroughs’ rise to rent apart altogether from the increase in the land valuation and land profits. Immediately upon this new arrangement being entered into between General Burroughs and Mr Gibson, the rents of the cots were naturally raised. Mr Drever went on to point out that in the present case a new and triple relation between statutory landlord and cottars and crofters had been established, that these crofters or crofterships were accessories of the main lease – accessorium sequitur principale [an accessory does not draw, but follows its principal] – and were dominated by its covenants. If under lease the subject was excluded from the operation of the Act, and the applicants were not crofters. A public act could not override this private covenant, nor was the lease cut down by it, or intended so to be cut down. Had it been otherwise the fact would have been made clearly intelligible; and so he contended that the subject was excluded, not only by this private covenant, but by the Act itself.

Mr THOMSON held that the difficulty under the Act was no bar to the applicants being held as crofters. If the applicants fulfilled the other conditions of being persons who, at the passing of the Act, were tenants holding from year to year, then they were crofters, and it would be a strange doctrine indeed to hold that any private contract was to modify the terms of an Act of Parliament. As to the principal farm being more dearly rented than the crofts he held that that was not the case. If the arable were to be taken alone it had 139 acres rented at £1 per acre; but this farm did not consist of arable and outrun, but outrun and arable. The outrun here was 710 acres, and if the grass were taken – the farm being used as a sheep farm – the average rent paid per acre by the principal tenant would be found to be 3s 4d; while the crofters paid 6s 1d and 15s 2d.

Mr DREVER said that 500 acres of the outrun was common to the principal tenant and the crofters. The farm was a mixed one, and Mr Thomson’s comparison was not correct. You could not compare incomparables. If you compared arable, it must be compared with another arable.

The witness Craigie having been sworn, deposed that he had 2 cows, 2 calves, a pony, and 3 sheep (but not on the farm). His rent was £7; no arrears. His area was 11½ arable and 6 outrun. He had been 34 years in occupation. He had built every building on the holding at a cost of £68. In 1862 the rent was raised from £2 to £3. It was next raised to £4; lastly to £7.

James Craigie, Burness, Wasbister, had 8 acres 3 rods 80 poles; outrun, 13 acres. His stock was 2 milk cows, 1 calf, and a pony. The rent was £5 10s; no arrears except £2 15s. Had been 5 years in the place. His father, who preceded him, broke in 2 acres, and they had put up the buildings.

By Mr DREVER – Had sold 2 oxen and a calf during the year. He got a 10 per cent reduction last year from Mr Gibson.

Sarah Ann Marwick, Whitemeadow, was represented by Hugh Marwick (23). Had 8 acres 9 rods 75 poles arable, and 7 acres 1 rod 88 poles. The stock was 1 cow, 1 year-old, 1 ewe, and 1 lamb.

Does she live alone on the croft? – Yes; she lives alone with some of her brothers. (Laughter.)

How many brothers has she got? – Eight.

How many live on the croft? – Four.

Witness (resuming) said the rent was £4, reduced last year to £3; no arrears. His sister had occupied the place about 2 years. His father was there before her. He had been tenant 21 years. Her father reclaimed all the land except 1¼ acres at a cost of £30. The rent was raised in 1881 from £1 to £4. They grazed on a part of Kierfea.

Robert Pearson (42), Castlehill, had 5 acres 3 rods 91 poles arable; 4 acres 8 rods 95 poles outrun. His stock was 1 cow, 1 one-year-old, 1 sheep, and 1 horse. The rent was £4 10s; no arrears. He had occupied the place 11 years, and broken in 1¼ acres, and built a new dwelling-house at a cost of £17. He had carted a good deal of earth and fish-manure on the croft.

Mr BRAND – Do you call fish-manure a permanent improvement? – The crops get the benefit of it.

Witness (resuming) said the landlord supplied wood for the roof and some lime. His rent was raised in 1881 from £3 10s to £4 10s. He still had the right of grazing.

By the COURT – He had sold a cow, a calf, and an ox this year.

This concluded the sub-tenancy cases.

Hugh Pearson, (34), Kirkgate, had 6½ acres arable and 18½ outrun. His stock was 1 cow, 1 year-old, 1 calf, 1 ewe, and 1 lamb. The rent was £6; arrears, £11 6s 4d. For 10 years he had been in the place, and for 32 years previously it had been in his father’s possession. Had broken in 2½ acres, and rebuilt the whole of the houses on the place except the byre at a cost of £15. The rent was raised in 1878 from £2 10s to £6, 6 acres being added, ½ acre only being arable. He lost the right of grazing in 1874.

Mr BRAND here observed that with what looked like startling rises of rent must be considered the fact that for long long years the rent may have remained stationary.

Witness – lf the rent remained stationary the croft was reduced. (Laughter.)

Mrs Margaret Marwick or Mowat, Garret, a sub-tenant of Mr Craigie, Feolquoy, said her whole croft consisted of 5 acres, divided in equal portions between arable and outrun. She had 1 cow, 1 calf, and 2 sheep. The rent was £1 10s; no arrears. For 24 years she had been in the place, and broken in all the land. She paid the previous tenant £10 for a horse and byre, and herself spent another £13 on buildings. The rent was raised in 1871 from 10s to £1; and in 1878 to 30s. The common was withdrawn in 1874, and she had now no common grazing. When she had the common she did not pay for grazings, but now she had to pay a rent for it.

John Gibson, Sketquoy, said he had 28 acres 3 rods 11 poles arable and 12 acres outrun. His stock was 4 cows, 4 one-year-olds, 4 calves, 2 horses, 1 one-year-old pony, and 6 sheep.

By Mr ROBERTSON – Applicant and another grazed on about 100 acres, known as Sacquoy Head.

Examination resumed – Had occupied 27 years, and his father and grandfather before him. He had broken in 14 acres, and erected a dwelling-house at his own expense. The rent in 1852 was £11 8s. It was raised by General Burroughs – who acquired the property about 1852 – to £22 10s, and finally to £30. He was allowed a third of the rent for 9 years.

Robert Inkster, Ploverhall, a sub-tenant of Mr Craigie, Feolquoy, had 1½ acres arable and 6 acres outrun. His stock was 1 cow and 1 ewe.

Mr BRAND – Is that all? – Yes, and I can’t keep that either since I lost the common.

Witness (resuming – The rent was £1 10s; arrears, £3 15s. His mother had the place before him. He reclaimed the whole arable land except an acre, and spent £12 on buildings. Had trenched 1¼ acres. The rent was originally 8s; in 1878 it was raised to £1 10s.

How does it happen you are the only man behind in your rent in Feolquoy?

No answer.

Mrs Isabella Marwick was represented by Hugh Marwick, her husband, who said the area of her croft was 2¼ acres arable and 8 outrun.

Mr BRAND – Is your wife the tenant? How does that happen?

Witness – She had the house before I came there. (Laughter.)

Mr BRAND – And she prefers being tenant herself?

Witness – She has been it anyway. (Laughter.)

Witness resuming, said – The stock was 1 cow, 1 one-year-old. They had to pay for grazing in the summer. The rent was £2 10s; arrears, 17s 8d.

Mr BRAND – Who was the tenant before your wife?

Witness – Her father-in-law.

Mr BRAND – How is that?

Witness – She was married before. (Laughter.)

The cases from Rousay having been concluded,

Mr ROBERTSON said that within the last 12 years the money expended upon the estate occasioned a rent charge of about £480, the greater part of which was payable by the proprietor. That was one reason for the rise of rents. It had been Insinuated once or twice by the crofters’ agent that when a crofter had been allowed to remain rent free it was for the advantage of the proprietor. He thought, however, that he had already shown that General Burroughs had lost about £600 by the arrangement. He had paid the whole poor rates, so that if that were the case, he ought to be credited with the money that he had remitted to the tenants as part of the money that he had lost. The Rousay people, he held, were at a great advantage in not suffering from sea-gust, of which they had heard so much. They had no “burning” from sand, as there was hardly any sand in the island, and they possessed the best fishing ground in the count. The harbour had been talked of as dangerous, but they never heard of any lives being lost there. With regard to the people, a witness before Lord Napier’s Commission had spoken of their “great and increasing poverty,” but he did not think his lordship had as yet seen any great appearance of it. On this, and other points, however, he would read a statement which had been drawn up by General Burroughs himself. Mr Robertson then proceeded to read the statement of General Burroughs as follows: –

I succeeded my grand uncle. the late Mr G. W. Traill, as proprietor of the estate of Rousay and Viera in 1852. I found a system of management established, which appeared to be both efficient and popular; and I have continued it. This system with regard to the cultivation of uncultivated land was to let the land at 6d, or 1s., or 2s an acre, according to its quality, for the first 7 years of a 21 years’ lease; for double the amount for the second 7 years; and for treble (1s 6d, or 3s, or 6s), for the third 7 years, the tenant agreeing to erect what buildings he required from materials (except wood and stone) obtainable on the estate; and to bring the land under cultivation. The tenant considered that in 21 years he recouped himself with profit for his labour. After 21 years a new agreement was come to between proprietor and tenant, and a moderate rent was put on the holding. Until the visit of the first Crofter Commission in 1883, the above system was popular, and I had more demands from applicants for sand on these terms than I could supply. At present there are no such demands. Tenants sometimes after taking farms wanted improvements carried out on them. In these cases, interest or rent charge was charged thereon according to whether the farm had been let at a low rent for the tenant to carry out the improvements or not. Since 1840, some £40,000 has been expended on improvements on this estate. This money was laid out with a view of improving the estate, and the social condition of all on it; and in the expectation of its returning a fair interest on the outlay. I have been over and over again told by tenants that although the rent they now paid was treble or more than they originally paid, they could pay the higher rent much easier now than the low rent formerly. Before 1840 little or no attention had been paid in Rousay or Viera to the proper cultivation of the soil. Rent had been chiefly derived from kelp making. Before 1840 there was not a road in Rousay. There was no post. There was no regular communication between Rousay and anywhere beyond it, or within it. There was hardly a walled enclosure on the island, and the run-rig system, where the land was cultivated, was still in force. Since 1840 some 20 miles of excellent macadamised roads have been made. Some 30 miles of stone dykes for enclosures, and about 9 miles of wire-fencing have been erected. Large sums have been laid out in building and repairing dwelling-houses and steadings, and in draining the land. About, and many years after, 1840 the dwellings generally were very comfortless; few had any fire-place beyond a hearth-stone in the centre of a room with a hole in the roof above it to let out the smoke. Now such an arrangement, I think, is not to be met with on the estate. A daily post has been established, and a daily postman makes the circuit of the island. A pier has been built at my own expense, which I permit to be freely used by all; and it is found to be of very great convenience to all the inhabitants for shipping their cattle and produce for market, and for landing their imports; and also of great convenience to themselves in embarking and disembarking in and from vessels in comfort and with dry feet, which before its erection they were hardly able to do. A steamer has been purchased by a locally-established company, of which I am the principal shareholder, but which has not yet returned a dividend. By it a regular and comfortable means.of communication has been established for the past 9 years between Rousay and Kirkwall, the county town. Since 1840 steam communication with Orkney has very greatly increased. Before 1840 a small steamer had just commenced plying once a week between Kirkwall and Leith; and the post between Orkney and Caithness and the rest of the world was carried across the Pentland Firth in an open sailing boat. Now several steamers ply weekly between Leith, Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Liverpool, and a daily mail steamer carries the post to and fro across the Pentland Firth. This increased communication has naturally given a great impetus to the imports and exports of the county, and has added very considerably to the general wealth of the inhabitants. So much so that when Lord Napier of Ettrick’s Crofter Commission was in Kirkwall in 1883 it transpired that about half-a-million of money was lodged in the banks of the county in the names of the tenant farmers (including crofters) of Orkney. By a perusal of the Agricultural Statistics for Scotland it will be seen what very great strides in prosperity this county has made since 1840. As an instance I may state that in 1840 a good cow would be bought from £2 10s to £3, and a sheep for about 2s 6d. Good cows now cost from £15 to £18 (5 to 6 times more), and sheep from £1 to £2 (8 to 16 times more). It was lately stated in the newspapers of the county that the produce of eggs from Orkney, as checked by the exports, almost equalled the amount of its total land rent. The fishing industry has also to be taken into account. The value of the fish annually landed in Orkney, as per the Scottish Fishery Statistics, also about equals its total land rent. The seas around this group of islands are alive with fish, and it is not too much to say that the least skilled fisherman by a few hours’ fishing will catch as much fish as he will be able to eat in a week. Fish in profusion can for several months of the year be caught off the rocks of Rousay without even venturing into a boat. And these fish can be caught by women as well as by men. These fish supply food for man, oil for lamps, and an excellent fertiliser for the fields. I have heard it repeatedly said that crofters who combine fishing with farming not uncommonly clear from £50 to £100 on a year’s fishing! Crofters now-a-days often give an excuse for withholding payment of their rent, that they do not (not can not) take the rent of their holdings out of the land, but out of the sea; and that what they get out of the sea is their own; quite regardless of the fact that they can not live in the sea but must live on the land, and that their dwellings being favourably situated for prosecuting the fishing industry enables them profitably to follow it; and that, all the world over, dwellings must either be owned or rented, and are valuable or otherwise in reference to the advantages offered by the positions they occupy. Besides the fish in the seas, on the shores of these islands sea-weed and shell-sand are to be had in abundance, and by their use the heavy bills for fertiliser incurred by the inhabitants of inland districts are avoided by crofters and small farmers here. The mildness of the climate in winter, caused by the influence of the Gulf Stream, and snow seldom lying here beyond a few days without melting away, renders it unnecessary to send sheep south for wintering, which is a very considerable saving to our farmers. The climate is so healthy that, I am thankful to say, our flocks and herds have never yet been afflicted with the epidemics and diseases which have been so common lately elsewhere. On this subject a local newspaper – the Orkney Herald of 2nd November 1887 – in its leading article said: “It may fairly be said that the Orkney livestock market has in no sense suffered to the same extent as the counties and districts in other ports of Scotland. The islands have long been free from infectious disease; and while other markets have been tabooed, theirs has always been open to the southern buyer.” All who have been to Paris know that the butchers of that great city make an extra charge for “Mouton pré salé,” or for mutton raised on pastures sprinkled with sea-spray. All Orkney mutton is “Mouton pré salé,” and is highly prized wherever known. Poverty there may be, for we are told the poor are ever to be among us, but Want, as experienced in our cities and large centres of population, is, I maintain, unknown in the county districts of these islands. Every person in this parish has a good roof over his or her head, and if kept clean and tidy their houses are comfortable; they have enough to eat; sufficient warm clothing to wear; and plenty of peat in Rousay for fuel. There is plenty of work to occupy the industrious, in fact more work than in these times there are willing hands to do it. As to the condition of the inhabitants of Rousay being one “generally of great and increasing poverty,” as stated by a witness before Lord Napier’s Crofter Commission in Kirkwall, the statement is simply untrue. It may describe the condition of one or two, but it certainly does not truthfully describe the condition of any sober, careful, and industrious man on my estate. Drunkards, and dissolute, lazy, and improvident persons are to be found in every community, and amongst all orders of men, and their poverty can’t but increase. In 1840 there was but one minister in this parish at a stipend of say about £200 a year; now (January 1888) there are four of various denominations for the care of 1118 souls. Their salaries amount to say about £700 a year. The church-going community, deducting the feeble, the aged, and the very young, may be estimated at say about 600 persons or 800 persons. There are also now five teachers and five sewing-mistresses to instruct some 200 children! The teachers’ salaries amount to about say £300 or £320 a-year.

Mr BRAND – Is it suggested that the spiritual and educational provision is excessive? (Laughter.)

Resuming, Mr ROBERTSON proceeded: – The total of ministers’ and teachers’ stipends and salaries amount to about £1000 a-year. The gross rental of the parish of Rousay and Egilshay is £3800 a-year! Although there are four resident ministers in the parish, there is no resident doctor. Rent, which used to be punctually paid up, is now being withheld. A local agitator, I was informed, told his hearers at a meeting is this parish that the greater the amount of arrears of rent due by them, the greater amount of these arrears would be forgiven them, and the more would their rent be reduced, by the Crofters Commissioners. Many appear to be acting on this advice. My factor told that when calling on tenants in arrears of rent in January 1888 he obtained from some little or no rent, but much insult and insolence. One man told him plainly that the “crofters” had agreed amongst themselves not to pay any rent until after the visit of the Crofter Commissioners. Another man told me that, “The land is the people’s.” I replied that I had never said it was not, but that the Queen, Lords, and Commons constituted the people, and not one section of the community only, and that, being one of the people, I was surely as justly entitled to my land, which had been as honestly paid for, as, I hoped, had the coat on his back. Another told me he had paid rent long enough to buy the land he rented, and, therefore, considered he should pay no more. I told him if he borrowed £100 he would have to pay interest on it until he paid up the principle, however long he kept it; and so with land which was the capital he had borrowed from me to trade on. I mention these cases to show the ideas at present prevailing, and which have been sedulously propagated of late by agitators. I have drawn up a tabular statement showing the prices obtained for farm produce annually during the past 40 years; indicating that cattle and sheep are about the same now as in 1870, or since the present rents of farms were fixed on my estate. Prices have certainly fallen since the year 1883, but they were exceptionally high that year. Grain has fallen in price, but little of it is exported by crofters. Against this, groceries and other articles now considered necessaries of life amongst the rural as well as town populations are very much cheaper than they need to be, and, although almost unknown here in 1840, when money was very scarce, are now largely consumed. Elderly men in this parish have told me that in their younger days they hardly ever saw money. All this points rather to increase of wealth than to “great and increasing poverty.” Wages, too, have been high and ever increasing. Crofters and their children generally earn wages, which also have been a considerable source of income to those willing to work. The inspector of roads in Rousay has of late been almost unable to get men to work on the repair and maintenance of the roads. With regard to the increase in the rental of this estate, it appears, from a statement made by Mr Anderson in Parliament (see Scotsman of 23rd February 1888), that agricultural rents have increased in Scotland during the past hundred years, from 1780 to 1884, six hundred per cent! viz., from £1,200,000 to £7,505,000 a-year. Also, that the rise in the value of personal property in Scotland as evidenced by the Probate Duties paid, has increased in thirty-eight years, from 1840 to 1877, five hundred per cent! viz, from £196,000.000 in 1840 to £970,000,000 in 1877. When there has been such a very remarkable increase in the wealth of the country, by what reason can it be upheld that Orkney must not participate in it? And why not Rousay, upon which, as before said, some £40,000 have been laid out in improvements since 1848? Is the proprietor to be permitted to get no return for the capital he has laid out? The withholding of rents on this estate is not from poverty, as before explained, and as may be seen by the general appearance of its inhabitants any day, and by the dress of the congregations of any of the churches on a Sabbath. The harvest of 1887 has been an exceedingly bountiful one. Grain, although low in price, has been very plentiful in quantity, and good in quality. It is estimated to have produced about five quarters to the acre. And the price of cattle, although much less than in the exceptionally high-priced year 1883, is little, if at all, below the average of prices since 1878. Potatoes, too, were an excellent crop. With regard to tenants paying less than £10 of yearly rent for the houses, byres, and land they occupy; in Kirkwall or any town they could hardly obtain two rooms for less than £5 a-year. In Glasgow, they would cost them £9 to £10 a-year; and in London, £14 or £15 a-year. And in a town they would be compelled to pay rates for water, lighting, &c., and to make money payments for fuel, none of which require any pecuniary outlay on their part in Rousay. In a town, too, they would have no land to grow grain, potatoes, turnips, and vegetables; no cows, and no poultry; on which they subsist. To those preferring a town life, towns are every-where open to them, but they will find no town where the able-bodied can live rent free, or pay less rent for their dwellings than their market price. I remitted 10 per cent of the rent for crop 1887 to all my tenants who paid rent due by them within one month of the term days of Whitsunday and Martinmas of that year. And I again did so for the first half-year of 1888. In doing so, I pointed out as above stated that Orkney had “in no sense suffered to the same extent as the counties and districts in other parts of Scotland;” that depression was being experienced all over the world, and by all classes of the community; that it was not confined only to agriculturists; and that other classes received no abatements of the dues required from them. Whatever the needs of the Celtic populations in other places may be I cannot say, but the inhabitants of Orkney are not Celtic but Scandinavian, and anyone who has had dealings with them can certify that they are neither infants in business, nor fatuous persons requiring special legislation to enable them to take care of themselves. There is often much truth in the proverbs of a country, and there is a saying prevalent, even in Aberdeen, that when a person is exceptionally intelligent, it is said that “He comes frae very far North.” In conclusion, I can honestly say that I have done all in my power to improve my estate, and the condition of all on it. I have made it my home; and I spend my means on it. That the inhabitants of Rousay and Veira are totally exempt from all the ills that flesh is heir to, I do not pretend to say; who is? but I do say that their condition will bear favourable comparison with that of persons in their class of life in any place I am acquainted with. They are naturally a very respectable class of people, but at present the minds of many of them have been tempted from the right path by the insidious representations of false friends and professional agitators, who have everything to gain and nothing to lose.

Mr THOMSON said the document they had just heard read was exactly of the kind they have expected from such a source. While he was not inclined to dispute the general observations it contained, he could not accept the statements put forward in regard to the poor rates. The particular case he referred to showed very decided finesse on the part of the proprietor, who got rid of paying poor rates at the expense of the son of a crofter. The woman, in this case, who otherwise would have fallen upon the rates, was left sitting rent-free in a little hut on the hill on condition that her son should work the croft for her, and thereby keep her off the Parochial Board. General Burroughs, in that way, got rid of paying poor rates for her. What he now wanted from Mr Robertson was a statement showing in detail what General Burroughs had paid in poor rates, and he would then show what the road money had been. Having quoted from the report of the Napier Commission as to the system of estate management existing in Rousay, Mr Thomson proceeded to lay special emphasis on the “progressive rentals” which he alleged had been laid upon the crofters. He believed, indeed, that during General Burroughs’ time the rents had been quadrupled. As indicating the manner in which they had been treated, he felt bound also to point to the very numerous occasions on which the proprietor had raised actions against his tenants; but he was very glad to say at the same time that this was the only estate in Orkney in which such harshness had been dealt out to the tenants. Again, it was said that some £40,000 had been expended by General Burroughs on the estate. He desired to say that a large proportion of that had been expended on residential buildings and the steadings of large farms, and in fencing land in order to keep the crofters off. (Laughter.) He was afraid to speculate, however, because the items of this £40,000 were slumped together –

Mr BRAND – It was £37,000 according to Lord Napier’s Commission.

Mr ROBERTSON – There have been further sums spent.

Mr BRAND – Money paid to the poor is included in the expenditure on the estate.

Mr ROBERTSON – It includes his whole expenditure on the property.

Mr THOMSON – If rates and assessments are included, it gives no idea whatever of the state of the case.

Mr BRAND admitted that the statement required a little elucidation.

Mr THOMSON, proceeding with his reply, dealt next with the price of cattle now and formerly. About 1840, he said, no doubt very large prices had been realised;  but since then the kind of cattle in Orkney had changed entirely. One animal of the breed kept now was as difficult to keep as two or three of the kind kept before – he meant the small Orkney cattle. General Burroughs also stated that he had been well-informed that crofters, in addition to the produce of their holdings, made from £50 to £100 by the fish. All he could say in answer to that was that from the information he had been able to obtain, the case was very different. As regarded this fish question, however, he purposed laying before the Commissioners a statement next day from a practical fish curer, as hitherto they had only heard one side of the question. Then, again, reference was made in the statement to the fact that there were 4 ministers for 1118 souls. In passing, he thought it only right to say in this connection that during General Burroughs time the souls in the island had decreased from 1263 to 1118 – which was rather indicative of the place being pretty hot. (Laughter.) The statement that in Rousay light, fuel, water, &c., cost nothing, while these were heavily paid for in large towns, was rather wild. Light, fuel, water, &c., all cost the crofters labour, and all over the world labour was valuable except apparently in Rousay. (A laugh.) Mr Robertson, in his turn, had dwelt on the appearance of the people. He (Mr Thomson) was proud to say that the people of these islands were always of respectable appearance, but that was due to cleanliness and tidiness of habit and to their economical mode of living.

Mr ROBERTSON said he should like to take the evidence of one skilled witness as to the prices of stock now as compared with various periods since 1850. He called…..

…..Mr John Gibson, Langskaill, who deponed, in answer to Mr Robertson, that he had been farming for the last 40 years, and been buying and selling stock during that period. In the year 1852 a brother of his went to the Stromness market, and got 35s for a stot rising 3 year old, and £3 for 2 work stots. At the present time he could now get £14 or £15. They had Orkney cows at that time, and he wished they had them now, as they made better crosses. Cows that would cost £5 or £6 then would now fetch £14.

The CHAIRMAN – Comparing 1875-6-7 with 1882-3-4, would you say there has been a declension in prices of cattle in Orkney? – Yes; and in 1883 they were not so high as in 1877.

What percentage of declension would there be between 1877 and 1883? – In 1882 they could get from £18 to £20 for two-year-olds; in 1883-4 the prices decreased £4.

Mr BRAND – A declension of over 30 per cent. Am I right in supposing that prices have not yet recovered? – They have recovered a little during the last 2 years, the last year especially. They had not recovered in full.

Mr BRAND – Comparing the price of two-year-olds at the present day with the price of similar animals in 1882-3, what would be the difference? – I think fully 20 per cent.

Mr BRAND – Do you know anything about fishing ? – A little but not much.

Are you aware of this that on the very year when the prices of stock went down, the herring fishing was to some extent a failure. Has it been recovered from since? – Yes, a little in some cases, but I only know the fact by looking at the newspapers.

You are aware the price of sheep declined in 1882-3? – Yes.

How are they now? – They are up this year from 3s to 4s a head compared with last year.

Have they not entirely recovered from the depression of 1882-3? – About recovered it. The prices in 1874 and 1888 nearly correspond.

What do you say to horses. Was there a declension in 1882-3? – There is a great declension in the price of horses. That declension has continued up till the present time.

Is there a horse trade in Rousay, because in the island of Tiree we found that the crofters bred horses extremely and sent them South? – There is nothing of that kind in Rousay.

Can you compare prices in 1850-2 with those in 1886-8? – I could not go so far back unless I had my accounts, but I think horses were beginning to rise.

Where do the Orkney breeders mostly dispose of their cattle? – They sometimes dispose of them in the islands to travelling drovers, sometimes put them into Kirkwall, and sometimes send them to Aberdeen or Edinburgh.

Mr THOMSON – Can you compare the price of horses in 1874 and 1878? – About 1857 the price of horses was comparing pretty closely to the prices at present. They were not so very low then. You could get £20 for a fair good horse, but not so much now.

Mr THOMSON – Compare 1874 and 1888? – Well I could not answer decidedly about that.

Would you say that the price of horses declined in 1883 and has not recovered yet? – Yes that is so.

What percentage of fall in the price of horses do you give from 1879 to the present date? – I could not say exactly.

Mr BRAND – As you were called by Mr Robertson as a skilled witness, he should have had you better instructed. (Laughter.)

The COURT then rose.

Messrs Miller (assessor) and Ferrier (valuator) visited Rousay on Monday for the purpose of inspecting crofts, and will finish that part of the work to-day (Wednesday). It is expected that the first batch of decisions will be issued either on Thursday or Friday.


1888 October 2 Glasgow Herald

THE CROFTERS COMMISSION IN ORKNEY – DECISIONS ON
ROUSAY AND OTHER ESTATES.

(From our Special Correspondent.)
Kirkwall, Monday Night

The last batch of decisions which the Commissioners intend to issue at present in the Orkney cases was lodged with the Sheriff-Clerk here to-day. They included final orders in the applications from Rousay, Westray, and part of the mainland, and the results were in several respects the most unexpected of any yet produced. Before going into the details of to-day’s decisions it may be explained that, including those issued last week, the Commissioners have now finally disposed of 283 cases in the county of Orkney, showing an average reduction of 26½ per cent. on the rental, and arrears cancelled to the extent of 49½ per cent.

The total rental of £3542 4s 6d on which the Commissioners were asked to adjudicate has been reduced to £2591 9s 6d, and of £3175 7s 6d of arrears £1567 13s 2d have been cancelled. This result as a whole has caused considerable surprise, as it was urged by many that the county of Orkney did not require a visit from the Commissioners; and it had been even prophesied that rises of rent would have been the result of their visit. Very special interest was taken in the batch issued to-day, as it was understood to include those on General Burroughs’s estate of Rousay, where the agitation was more vigorous than in any part of Orkney, and from the evidence given by the tenants it was anticipated that the reductions would be the most severe the Commissioners had yet issued. The result, however, was a complete surprise. In 42 applications from Rousay the average reduction was only 28½ per cent, on the rental, and about half of the arrears were cancelled. The rental was reduced from £350 to £250 8s, and £157 17s 9d of arrears were cancelled out of a total of £289 4s 9d. Only in the case of one or two small rents did the reduction amount to 50 per cent., while in four cases the rents were unaltered, and in one case there was actually a rise…..

The Commissioners intended to leave Kirkwall to-day by the steamer St Olaf, but a severe storm has prevented her crossing the Pentland Firth. They will cross to Scrabster to-morrow morning, if the storm abates, and it is understood that they will begin sitting in Lewis at an early date…..

The following is the table of decisions:-


1888 October 3 Orkney Herald

THE FAIR RENT DECISIONS. – The outcome of the Crofters Commissioners’ visit to Orkney has fully justified the expectations of those who, like ourselves, refused to lower these islands to the level of a Highland crofting county, and write down as spiritless serfs a class of men who have brought their island soil to its present state of fertility. In no other county in the kingdom has agriculture made more rapid strides within the last thirty years than in Orkney; and it cannot be denied that, before this could be achieved, landlord and tenant must have worked together to some purpose, combining capital and labour in the process, and reaping, if in somewhat unequal shares, the fruits of their industry. If one were to believe the well-paid agitator, the glib enunciator of half-truths and entire falsehoods, the crofters of Orkney have long been in a position incompatible with self-respect and a spirit of independence, that they have tamely submitted all along to grinding exaction and forced servitude at the hands of the landlords. That is not so. Up till within a few years ago, when times of depression began, there was comparative comfort in their midst, if, at the same time it was linked to hard labour and economical management – the common lot of most members of the world’s community. To some extent, the landlords were slow to realise the depth and extent of the depression, with the result that they held on to impossible rents, rents which in some cases neither the soil nor the sea could produce. The tribunal allotted to the crofters has now put an end to all this. The reduction of 27 per cent made on their aggregate rents by the Commissioners replaces them in their previous position, representing as it does as nearly as possible the fall in agricultural prices since 1880. Thus it will be seen that here in Orkney the complaint has not been so much that of rack-renting as a failure to reduce rents in sympathy with the downward tendency of the market. Tenant farmers all over Scotland have had similar reductions without application to any Commission, and many of them are not even satisfied yet; but the fact that the Commissioners seem, in a majority of cases, to have framed their reductions by reference simply to the fall in prices, leaves little room for the assertion that at any time previous to the commencement of the present depression, there was any genuine system of rack renting throughout the county, except on one or two estates…..Since the Commissioners dealt with the Duke of Sutherland’s Dornoch property, no other proprietor has suffered less by their decisions, and none, it may be added, has given more facilities to his crofters for making application for fair rent. The result, too, of the applications from the Rousay and Veira estates, has been such as to refute a good deal of recent wild and irresponsible talk, showing as it does that while four crofters have been ordered to sit at their present rents, and one has had his rent raised, the average reduction on the remainder is little more than that made on the aggregate crofts throughout the county…..


1888 October 10 Falkirk Herald

THE CHANNEL FLEET KIRKWALL. – On Monday the Northumberland was thrown open to visitors, and though a stiff breeze of westerly wind was blowing, and the sea was a little choppy, large numbers of people visited the vessel. The little steamer Otter and a number of sailing boats plied between Kirkwall pier and the fleet till dark, and had a busy time of it. During the day the several boats’ crews engaged at torpedo practice in the bay, and were watched with great interest by large numbers of people on the quay. In the morning Admiral Baird and party sailed across to the Island of Rousay to have a day’s sport with General Burroughs, and a number of officers were shooting and fishing on the mainland, the favourite resort for the anglers being the Loch of Stenness. In the evening Provost Peace dined with Admiral Baird on the flagship. No sailors or marines got ashore yesterday, but about 400 got into town on Sunday night.


1888 October 17 Orkney Herald

GLASS BALLS AS FLOATS. – Glass balls about five inches in diameter, and entirely closed, are frequently pitched up on our shores, particularly in the North Isles, and have hitherto caused much conjecture as to their origin and use. One recently found bore the name of Laurvig, and so afforded the opportunity of obtaining information on these points. The British Vice-Consul in that place was communicated with, and he replies that the balls are used instead of cork by Norwegian fishermen, from Bergen northwards, as floats for their nets. He adds that it is some years since any have been manufactured with the name Laurvig on them.


1888 November 2 Dundee Courier

STUDYING THE CURRENTS. – ln the Island of Veira, which lies between Rousay and Kirkwall, there has been discovered a glass bottle, egg-shaped, nearly flat on the top, protected by a copper case of similar shape, but larger, the space between being filled with some sort of black substance resembling pitch. Inside was a paper bearing the following words in nine different languages:- “ln order to study the currents this paper has been thrown into the sea at the instance of Professor Pouchet, and in compliance with a resolution of the Municipal Council of Paris at their sitting of March 26,1886, during the third scientific expedition of the yacht L’Hirondelle, commanded by his Highness the Prince of Monaco. Any person finding the said document is asked to send it to the French Government, stating the circumstances under which it was found.”


1888 December 1 The Scotsman

Letters to the Editor

THE DECISIONS OF THE CROFTER COMMISSIONERS IN ORKNEY

Rousay, Orkney, N.B., November 23, 1888.

SIR, – Since the departure of the Crofter Commissioners from these Northern Isles, I have been endeavouring to account for the reasons for the reductions of rent and cancelling of arrears of rent decreed by them on my estate.

 Although the reduction of my rental on the rents of fifty crofters for one year is comparatively small, and amounts to little more than £2 per each, and comes to £104 16s., yet in seven years over which period the decision of the Commissioners extends, it totals up to the sum of £733 12s., which, together with £136 2s. of arrears cancelled, represents a fine levied upon me of £869 14s.

I may be permitted to ask, why am I thus fined? I am not a rebel or a malefactor, to be thus treated. I and mine have done all in our power to improve this estate and the condition of all on it, and during the past forty years have laid out £40,000 on estate improvements. Why then, I ask, should the land held of me by crofters be now forcibly taken from me without compensation, and be handed over in perpetuity to a class of persons called crofters (who have no just right to it) and to their heirs, as long as they choose to continue to pay a rent below its market value fixed by a Parliamentary Commission, which is empowered to adjudicate in this matter every seven years, and thus perpetuate friction between landlords and tenants, and continue to foster ill-feeling between the masses and the classes?

Truly may it be said, in the words of a late distinguished author, that “the rigours of law may equal, if they do not often excel, the ravages of the most unjust despotism.”

I find the decrees of the Commissioners have worked the following results on the rentals of the fifty so called “crofters” on my estate who made application to them to have “fair rents” fixed. These “fair rents” have reduced these crofters’ rents to either what they were or below what they were from six to thirty-four years ago….

[A table was inserted here, showing the results of the decisions of the Crofters Commissioners on the estate of Rousay. It contained the number of crofts; the year back to which rent had been reduced; the number of years ago to which rent had been reduced; present rent (before decrease); fair rent (as decreased); and the rent in the year to which now reduced.]

The following tabular form [not included here], abridged into decades from the more extended one I laid before the Commission, shows the average prices obtained for bere (a species of barley), oats, cattle and sheep, for the last forty-two years on my home farms, of Westness from 1845 to 1875, and Trumland from 1876 to 1887. At Westness the sheep stock was Leicester and Cheviot crossed; at Trumland it is blackfaced. Wheat is not grown in Orkney. Rent is calculated principally on the produce of live stock.

The…..table will show, as was stated in a local newspaper, and as is noted in a “statement” that I laid before the Commission, that “the Orkney live stock market has in no sense suffered to the same extent as the counties and districts in other parts of Scotland. These Islands have all along been free from infectious disease, and while other markets have been tabooed theirs have always been open to the southern buyer.” There is a falling off in the price of oats since 1879, but as crofters say they buy and do not sell oats, this is in their favour.

Considering the very great impetus which has been given to the prosperity of these northern islands since the introduction and yearly increase of steam communication with southern markets, as pointed out in my “statement” above alluded to, the reductions of rent, as decreed by the Crofter Commissioners in Orkney, are simply inexplicable. Little or no consideration appears to have been paid by them as to the amount of money expended by proprietors on the improvement of their estates; and little or no difference has been made by them in the reductions decreed, whether the proprietor has so laid out much or laid out no money at all. At the same time, every assertion of expenditure made by a crofter, however unsupported by vouchers or any proof whatsoever, and regardless of any agreement he may have made with his landlord, appears to have been credited. It must be borne in mind, also, that the erection of a crofter’s dwelling house (mason and joiner work), measuring 30 by 12 by 6 ft., inside measurements, costs in 1888 about £10; in 1840 it cost about £5. For the same accommodation in any town a rent of at least £5 a year would be charged. The Commissioners appear to have acted as if they had been sent only to make reductions of rent and to forgive debts all round, and, with slight exceptions, they have done so.

And what, I ask, but endless confusion can be expected as the result of this interference with the security of property, this banishing of the laws of political economy to Saturn, in response to a party cry, got up for political purposes by certain atrocity-mongers and faddists and “old Parliamentary hands,” by which the good name of landowners in the northern counties of Scotland is being defamed and their property robbed? And why, for so unjust a cause, it may be asked, are three men invested with infallibility, and against whose decisions there is no appeal, to be permitted, at considerable expense to the State, to go through the northern counties of Scotland, with power to annul the provisions of leases, and to override laws hitherto held as just between contracting parties? As one instance of this out of many, I may mention that one of my farms, measuring 60 acres arable and 27 acres pasture, which has been held on lease, and has been occupied in joint-tenancy by two men for the past forty-three years, and which since 1879 has been rented at £60 a year, apparently for no other reason than because sixty divided by two makes thirty, has been decreed by the Commissioners to be two crofters’ holdings, and its rent has been reduced from £60 to £35 12s. (or £17 16s. for each man.) Its rent was £42 in 1854, thirty-four years ago. And since the publication of the fair-rent decisions by the Commissioners, one of my crofters has given up his croft. It was no sooner vacant than I received three offers for it at the rent it was before being reduced by the Commission, showing that the old rent was not too high, although 30 per cent. higher than that fixed by the Commission.

The foregoing tabular statement of the reductions of rent would furnish many other extraordinary instances of the judgements decreed by the Commissioners, but I fear I have already trespassed too much on your space to do so.

As might be expected, their decisions are pleasing but very few even of the crofters themselves, for many of them are now crying out that decisions are reckless, senseless, and unjust that many amongst themselves with better bargains with their landlords have received greater reductions of rent than others less favourably situated; and that those who have dishonestly withheld payment of rent have had their debts forgiven, whilst those who have honestly paid their debts have thus been losers by doing so.

In fact, landowners are being impoverished and disheartened at the treatment being dealt out to them, and the rural population is being demoralised by this most unreasonable legislation, and the sooner a return is made to the paths of honesty and common-sense, the better will it be for the whole community.

Trusting that the importance of the subject to a large portion of your readers may be my excuse for trespassing at such length on your space – I am, &c. F. BURROUGHS, Lt-Genl.


1888 December 5 Orkney Herald

INTERNECINE WARFARE IN ROUSAY. – In Orkney Sheriff Court yesterday, Sheriff Armour on the bench, Janet Sinclair or Craigie, wife of James Craigie, fisherman, Old School, Wasbister, was charged with having on the 9th ult., in the dwelling-house at the Old Schoolhouse, occupied by William Craigie, merchant, assaulted her sister-in-law Jane Elizabeth Gillespie or Craigie, wife of Alexander Craigie, farm servant, Lingro, by striking her on the head to the effusion of blood. Accused, who pleaded not guilty, was defended by Mr Angus Buchanan. Mr Cowper prosecuted.

The prosecutrix, in reply to Mr Cowper, said that on Wednesday 7th Nov., she was digging potatoes in a field on the farm of Feolquoy, which is in the occupation of her father-in-law, Alexander Craigie. While so engaged the accused came up, pushed her away, and began gathering up the potatoes she and her husband were digging. At the same time she made use of violent language, threatening to “mark” her, and to watch for her on every occasion. Witness’s husband interfered, but not before she had been pushed down, and struck on the arm with a stone. On the following Friday, witness had occasion to go to William Craigie’s shop, but on seeing accused in front of her, and about to enter the same premises, she lingered behind for five minutes or so in order, if possible, to avoid meeting her. Meeting Mary Craigie, who was carrying water, she soon after entered the passage leading to the shop, when all at once the accused sprang upon her and struck her repeatedly on the top of the head with something she had in her hand. Witness had given her no provocation, and indeed did not speak to her on entering. Mary Craigie was close behind.

The Sheriff – Are you all related?

Mr COWPER said the witness and accused were married to two brothers.

Witness (resuming) said that when the assault took place Mary Craigie ran outside screaming. As soon as possible she made her way to her father-in-law’s, where she told her story, and had the blood washed from her head, neck, and clothes.

Cross examined – Witness did not strike accused on the Tuesday preceding the assault in the potato field.

By the SHERIFF – Her husband had permission to take potatoes from the field, but she was not aware that his brother had.

Cross-examination continued – When the accused asked who had given her liberty to take potatoes, she replied that her husband had permission from his father. Accused snatched the fork from her husband’s hand, but witness would swear that she did not wrestle with her for its possession. She would also swear that she did not give accused a black eye, or knock her down. (Laughter.) On the Friday she waited till she thought accused had left the shop, and certainly witness did not strike her on entering the passage.

Mary Craigie, residing with her brother Alex. Craigie, deposed to meeting the prosecutrix outside the shop, and to seeing the two women struggling together in the passage. She did not know who commenced the struggle, and was so frightened that she ran outside and there fell down.

Cross-examined – After the assault she saw that accused’s finger was bleeding. She had also a cut on her lip, but did not think it was inflicted that day.

Hugh Craigie, a boy of thirteen, son of William Craigie, stated that the defender came to the shop to pay for some goods, and was aware that the prosecutrix was coming in, as the former made an observation to that effect. When the door opened he saw the two women all at once “tugging” behind the door. He did not observe the prosecutrix strike the defender, but he noticed that the former had her hands up before her face as if to protect herself.

The SHERIFF – Had the accused anything in her hand when she went out into the passage? – Witness – I did not see anything. There were some pots about, but no wood. (Laughter.)

Mr BUCHANAN – It appears to you that the one was struggling with the other – the one just as much as the other?

Witness – Yes.

The SHERIFF – You mean they were both equally affectionate? (Laughter.)

Mrs Margaret Jones or Wylie, now of Shapinsay, deponed that on the date in question she was a servant at Feolquoy. The prosecutrix came in bleeding. The blood was running from her head down upon her neck and shawl.

Catherine Thomson, who said that in November last she was in service at Feolquoy, stated that on the evening of the assault she spoke to defender, who stated that prosecutrix attacked her, kicked her on the leg, and struck her on the side. Defender at the same time admitted that she struck prosecutrix seven or eight times on the head with a piece of a barrel. She was not sure whether the word “barrel” was used, as the rumbling of the cart prevented her hearing properly.

George Craigie (husband of prosecutrix) said that on 7th inst. he was digging potatoes along with his wife at Feolquoy, for which he had his father’s permission. Defender came up, pushed his wife aside, and commenced picking up the potatoes they had dug. She then began using abusive language, and snatched the graip from his hand.

The SHERIFF – Did your father give permission to your brother to lift potatoes? – Witness – Not that I am aware of.

Witness (resuming) said accused then picked up the potatoes, put them in her “cubbie,” and threatened to mark his wife, and stone her in the dark.

By the COURT – There were four forks in the field, and he and his wife took the first that came to their hand.

Cross-examined – His wife and accused had a tussle on the field. He told them to stop that, and pulled the fork from under them. In his presence, his wife did not strike the accused with a stone. When James Craigie came on the field all was quietness.

The SHERIFF – Oh, the the Reserves were called out. (Laughter.)

No witnesses having been called for the defence, Mr COWPER moved for sentence, pointing out that the assault was not only a very serious one, but had been premeditated.

Mr BUCHANAN then briefly addressed the Court on behalf of his client.

The SHERIFF (addressing accused) – I must say it seems to me that this is a most unsteady case, and I should think that you must feel a very lively sense of shame at your position here today. It is bad enough when women who are strangers to each other come to blows, but when they are related the case becomes all the more aggravated and unseemly. I think there is no question at all that an assault was committed, and that the prosecutrix was injured and that somewhat severely; the only question remaining it appears to me is whether or not you received provocation. I am willing to take it that you did receive some provocation on the Friday when this attack took place in Mr Craigie’s shop, and also that this is not a case of premeditated assault. No doubt the dispute arose about this potato field. Apparently your father-in-law gave permission to Mrs Jane Gillespie or Craigie and her husband to dig potatoes, and evidently you felt aggrieved that this should be so. You proceeded to attack Mrs Craigie in the field, and I also take it to be proved that you did use threats. Whether you intended to put them into force I do not take it upon me to say, because I think the disturbance in Mr Craigie’s shop was not premeditated. There is not sufficient evidence to prove it; if there had been it would have been a very serious thing for you. The view I take of this case is that you met in this shop, and there being bad blood between you engendered by these potatoes, you both proceeded to use violence to each other. There is no doubt that the statement – and it is a very important one – made by Catherine Thomson of what you told her shows that the very best complexion that could be put on the case for you is that Jane Craigie did attack you when she came into the passage, and that you retaliated. I think the retaliation went very far indeed beyond what was justifiable. The only evidence that prosecutrix did attack you is that of the witness Catherine Thomson. If that statement is to be taken in your favour it must be taken as a whole, and taking it as a whole you told her that this woman, Jane Craigie, did hit you on the side and kick you, and that you struck her seven or eight times on the head with a piece of a barrel. Whether it is true or not, it is certain that when prosecutrix arrived at her father-in-law’s house she showed marks of very severe violence, and has sustained indeed, permanent injury. It is, therefore, my duty to inflict in this case a punishment such as will deter you from quarrelling and from attacking your relations again in such a manner. I think the lightest penalty I can inflict is to fine you £2, or in default a fortnight’s imprisonment. If I had been satisfied that this was an assault without provocation there would have been no alternative but to send you to prison for a somewhat lengthy period, but the view I take of this case is that it was a family quarrel, that you had some little provocation, but that you went far beyond what you were justified is doing.


1888 December 21 The Scotsman

A MINISTER CENSURED FOR NEGLECT OF DUTY. – A pro re nata meeting of the North Isles Presbytery, Orkney, was held in Cross Church, Sanday, yesterday, in consequence of a letter of complaint from some of the members of the congregation in Rousay with respect to an intimation made by the Rev. Mr Spark to the effect that he would preach in Rousay only once a month during the winter. Mr Spark admitted that he had made the intimation, whereupon the Presbytery expressed their disapprobation of his conduct, their regret that he had been guilty of the neglect of duty referred to, and enjoined him to reside within the bounds of his parish, and attend to the regular discharge of his duties. In consequence of the Rousay manse being under repair, Mr Spark has been residing in Kirkwall.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1884 – 1887

1884 January 10 Glasgow Herald

Letters to The Editor

THE ROUSAY EVICTIONS

Queen Street, Kirkwall,
Orkney. 5th January, 1884.

SIR, – The above subject is now so widely known throughout the country at large that it is almost superfluous to write any more about it in that sense. But it is not so much to the evictions in itself I now call attention as to the effects of the evictions. Being one of the evicted parties, and the one who suffers most therefrom, I feel myself placed in a position which compels me, though very unwillingly to say a word on my own behalf. Hitherto I have carefully avoided making any reference to my own personal wants or present condition in life; it is foreign to my nature to do so; but when I review the whole proceedings from first to last, and consider that it is not only in my own interest that I now suffer, but more particularly in the interest of others and the cause for which I have striven, and still strive, to maintain, I feel it not only a duty, but a privilege, to make my own personal case more fully known to the friends of reform than at present it is. Long before the Royal Commission visited Orkney, and even before we (the crofters) ever heard of a Commission, we often wished that an opportunity might be afforded us of stating our grievances to the Government. So anxious were we on this point that at one time we even thought of sending a deputation to Mr Gladstone for assistance. But being poor of means, illiterate, and with few friends to help us (so far as we knew), we gave up the thought in hopeless despair. But no sooner did we hear of the Royal Commission coming to visit us than our drooping spirits began to revive, and some of the more sanguine, in their anxiety for deliverance, thought that immediate relief was at hand. Cheered by this thought, they set to work in right earnest. Meetings were held, delegates appointed, and several other minor points discussed and matured. At the first of these meetings I was not present, but before the second meeting was convened a deputation of the crofters waited upon me, and asked if I would kindly consent to be chairman and clerk of their future meetings. To this request I at once agreed without any hesitation, although, as I told them, I was one of the poorest among them, and had as much need to be afraid as anyone. Yet the case was so urgent and the need so great I could not refuse. Shortly after this, and about a week before the Royal Commission sat in Kirkwall, I was still further asked to act as a delegate and appear before Her Majesty’s Commission in their (the crofters’) behalf. This was the most trying point of all. Rumours had got afloat that General Burroughs had threatened to evict anyone who went. I had no means to rely on, a wife and small family to support, a tenant at will and nowhere to go to should I be evicted. In these trying circumstances I must confess I was at first a little undecided. But when I saw the dread and terror which pervaded every countenance at that meeting my very soul was moved with sympathy, and indignation too, to think that men, intelligent men, should be under such bondage by a fellow-creature as to be afraid to make their case known, even when asked to do so by the Government of our country. So I said before them all – “What is General Burroughs but a worm of the dust more than we are that we should he so much afraid of him. There is a higher than General Burroughs that rules over all, and to Him let us look for help and direction. By the Divine help I will go, be the consequence what it may, and state our case, fearing no man.” In this spirit I along with others did go, and faithfully as we could fulfilled our mission, although at the very time we did so a threat was held over us. The result of our doing so is already well known. General Burroughs did evict us, and that too at a most critical time with my wife and children. Surely this was too bad of General Burroughs, and ought to be considered. Had I or my brother delegate been charged with falsehood, or misrepresentation of General Burroughs’s management on his estate, there might have been a shadow of excuse for such harsh and unfeeling treatment, but as it was and is there can be none. Not a single statement made by me or my brother delegate has been nor can be called in question. Truth from the very first was our motto, and nothing but truth, and upon that rock we still stand – immovable as ever. Enemies have tried, and may yet try, to have our footing removed, but impossible. Truth must and will ultimately prevail; and although I in particular now suffer for speaking the truth, yet I rejoice to know others have done so before me; ay, even unto death. Let us not, then, be faint-hearted nor discouraged, victory is nigh. The poor shall not always be forgotten is the word of promise, and shall it not come to pass? In these few lines I have endeavoured in my own humble way to give a brief outline of the path I have trod, and the good to be reached in this great and good work, viz., freedom from landlord tyranny and oppression, for “Britons never, never shall be slaves.” Now, to conclude, I beg to be excused for what may appear to be egotistical in this humble note. The circumstances of the case demand it. Did not Nehemiah of old do the same, and who will say that he was an egotist? – I am, &c., JAMES LEONARD, the Evicted Delegate.

P.S. – I cannot express the gratitude I feel towards my friends and countrymen in Glasgow and elsewhere who are so nobly taking up my case. It is certainly a fulfilment of what I have always believed, viz., that “in some way or other the Lord will provide.”


1884 January 24 Aberdeen Press & Journal

STEAMER STRANDED IN THE ORKNEYS. – A boat reached Kirkwall yesterday from Rousay, and brings the intelligence that the steamer Lizzie Burroughs, trading between Kirkwall and Rousay, Evie, and Rendall, has been stranded by Sunday’s gale on the island of Egilshay, a few miles from Rousay, where the steamer had been anchored in a sheltered position, and the crew were on shore when she broke from her anchor. The steamer is reported by the captain to be considerably damaged, there being several holes in her bottom. Assistance was sent from Kirkwall yesterday afternoon. With favourable weather it is thought that the steamer may be floated off.


1884 January 24 Inverness Courier

ORKNEY – THE EVICTED CROFTER. – A correspondent writes from Orkney – Mr James Leonard, the crofter evicted from Digro, Rousay, has been living in Kirkwall since the Term, and has been fully employed at his trade of a mason. Leonard’s employment at his trade, while he lived in Rousay, was very intermittent, and he had to eke out a miserable living by teaching singing classes during the winter. In addition to his earnings as a mason, Leonard has received several remittances from sympathisers in the South, and is now better off than ever he could have been had he been allowed to remain in his native Rousay.


1884 January 26 Aberdeen People’s Journal

RESULTS OF GIVING EVIDENCE BEFORE THE CROFTERS’ COMMISSION. – Professor Lindsay, writing in the Pall Mall Gazette of Thursday night, says:- “You have from time to time shown an interest in the crofters of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Will you permit me to state what has befallen certain crofters’ delegates in Orkney? It may be in the recollection of your readers that at a sitting of the Commission in Kirkwall on the 23rd of July 1883, an Orcadian proprietor, Lieutenant-General Burroughs, of Rousay and Viera, refused to promise that no harm should be done to crofter delegates for giving evidence, and that a Rousay delegate, James Leonard, thereafter proceeded to give evidence ‘at his own hazard.’ On September 22 last two petitions of ejectment and removal were presented in the Sheriff Court at Kirkwall by Mr John MacRae, writer, Kirkwall, law agent for Lieut.-General Burroughs, against the above-mentioned James Leonard and a fellow-delegate, James Grieve, and in consequence both these delegates are evicted from their holdings. These cases, however, are worse than mere evictions. In the petition against Grieve the landlord asked not only for eviction, but for power to interdict the defendant “in all time coming” from entering “into any other subjects belonging to” him; and in order to make matters sure, the landlord actually asked for power to evict Malcolm Grieve, the defendant’s brother, explaining in the petition that he has no desire to evict Malcolm, provided he pays “due respect to the conditions under which possessions of the estates of Rousay and Viera are held.” It thus appears from the eviction warrants, service copies of which are now in my possession, that two Rousay delegates who were elected by their fellows to give evidence before a Commission appointed by the Government to inquire into their grievances, have been evicted from their homes, and one at them interdicted from entering on any house on the estate, and his own brother prohibited from sheltering him. The houses from which Leonard and Grieve were evicted were, I understand built by themselves – Leonard’s in 1872, and Grieve’s in 1873. Leonard has received in compensation £20, the estimated value of the woodwork in a house built wholly by himself. He is the father of nine children, four of whom are under six years of age, and his wife was confined of her youngest child between the service of the eviction warrant and his removal from the house which he had built for himself, and from the croft which he had tilled for upwards of twenty years. It cannot be said that the proprietor acted illegally in all this; but does not the fact that such things are possible, and are done, call for some alteration in the law. How can a Royal Commission on crofters’ grievances be expected to elicit a tithe of the truth if such thing can he done with impunity to witnesses after they have given evidence?

Some time after the sitting of the Commission at Kirkwall, General Burroughs, it is reported, received a threatening letter. The crofters indignantly deny all knowledge of the matter, and the writer is still unknown. It was the occasion, however, of proceedings which ought to be made known. On the 16th August Sheriff Thoms, the Procurator Fiscal, Mr. MacRae, and the Superintendent of Police, Mr. Grant, with others, came to Rousay from Kirkwall in a gunboat. Mr Grant, accompanied by the Procurator Fiscal’s clerk, went to the farm-house of Essaquoy, where Frederick Leonard, aged fourteen, the son of the delegate James Leonard, was herd boy. They took the boy away without producing a warrant or summons, he says, to the schoolhouse, where young Leonard found the Procurator Fiscal awaiting his arrival. There the boy was made to write on a sheet of paper, and after some detention was dismissed. Now, sir, I ask you to put these two incidents of eviction and examination together, and to remember that Mr. MacRae, the public prosecutor, is also John MacRae, writer, Kirkwall, law agent to General Burroughs. In his private capacity he acted as legal adviser to the proprietor in evicting and interdicting a witness before the Crofters’ Commission. In his public capacity he examined a delegate’s son, without the protecting presence of the Sheriff, which the law enjoins. On the one hand we have a Royal Commission unable to protect its own witnesses; on the other we have a Public Prosecutor, one of Her Majesty’s legal officials, seizing and examining a witness’s son in what is alleged to be an illegal way. I am far from insinuating that Mr. MacRae meant to use his public position to further his client’s private interests, or that he did so; but I ask you to consider the effect on the crofter population of Orkney; and I further ask whether the proceedings in the case of the boy Leonard do not warrant the public demanding an official inquiry on the part of the Lord Advocate, or of the Home Secretary, as to the manner in which the officials of the Orkney Sheriff Court conduct their business?”


1884 February 4 Aberdeen Free Press

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND THE HIGHLAND CROFTERS. – Lieutenant-General Burroughs sends the Pall Mall Gazette the following reply to the grave statements made by Professor Lindsay his letter headed as above:-

My attention has just been drawn to a letter in your paper of the 24th ult., signed “Thomas M. Lindsay,” dated Free Church College, Glasgow, January 21. The writer of this letter, in alluding to the appearance of the Free Church minister in the island of Rousay, Orkney, N.B., his precentor or clerk, and two of his congregation, discontented delegates of my tenants against me before the Royal Commission (Highlands and Islands) in Kirkwall, on the 23rd of July, 1883, truly states that I refused to make any promise that notice should be taken of what these so-called “delegates” had said and should say against me. But this writer omits to mention that I was only asked to do so after they had vented their malevolence against me as reported in detail in some four columns of local newspaper, which – although they admit when questioned by Lord Napier that “General Burroughs encouraged many good things on the island in a moral and social way. His example in many respects was a model to proprietors…..The proprietor showed a very good moral example – he discouraged all forms of vice…..He took a great interest in educational matters; he was kindly in his manner with people” – yet they describe me as an un-Christian (I am a member of the Church of England, and a regular attendant at the parish church), inhuman, unrighteous, unjust, oppressive, &c., &c. After four columns of abuse and misstatements hurled at him, would Mr T. M. Lindsay, I ask, have acted otherwise than I did.

General Burroughs then goes into the subject in detail, and finishes as follows:- In conclusion, I would beg to say that up to the arrival of the Crofter Commission in Orkney, peace, happiness, goodwill, and contentment prevailed in Rousay between my tenants and myself. Only about three years ago, when I returned home after a short absence, during which I had been promoted to be a major-general, a large body of tenants welcomed me on my arrival at Trumland Pier, Rousay, and presented me with an address of congratulation on my “well earned promotion,” and they expressed the hope that I was now about to retire from war’s alarms and quietly settle down at home. They took the horses out of my carriage and dragged it up the avenue to my house. Nothing in the interval between that time and the visit of the Royal Commission to Orkney had occurred to disturb the good feeling then subsisting between my tenants and myself. I left home in the winter of 1882-83, and paid a visit to the Continent. On my return in July, 1883, to my great surprise I found myself suddenly and unexpectedly assailed in the very spiteful manner in which I was attacked by certain so-called “delegates” before the Royal Commission. The more I have inquired into this agitation the more convinced I am that it is an exotic product which has been fostered into growth by the unscrupulous agency of interested but outside agitators.


1884 February 9 Aberdeen People’s Journal

GENERAL BURROUGHS AND THE EVICTED CROFTERS. – General Burroughs has replied at some length to the charge brought against him of evicting two of his tenants in the Isle of Rousay in consequence of evidence given by them at the Highland Commission. Neither of these men, he says, ever were his tenants, the great majority of whom have no sympathy with them. James Grieve, one of the two, returned to Rousay after an absence in the Colonies of some twenty-five years, boasting of having made money, and that he was looking out to buy land or to take a farm. He married a housemaid who had been for some years in the General’s house, and out of kindness to her, and contrary to the estate rules against squatters, he was permitted for a time to squat on his elder brother’s farm to enable him to look out for a place to suit himself. Years passed, and though farms were let and sold none of them would suit Grieve, who continued a squatter to the last. James Leonard, the other of the two men, is by trade a weaver and mason, and is likewise precentor in the Free Kirk and a teacher of singing. Not being the eldest son, he has no right to his father’s farm croft – on which, however, during the General’s absence abroad, and when there was no factor on the estate, he created a lot for himself, which he occupied rent-free. Up to the arrival of the Commission “peace, happiness, goodwill, and contentment prevailed in Rousay,” and the agitation which has recently prevailed the General describes as “an exotic product fostered into growth by the unscrupulous agency of interested but outside agitation.”


1884 February 14 Glasgow Herald

VESSEL FLOATED IN ORKNEY. – The steamer Lizzie Burroughs, stranded at Vaddy [Egilsay], Orkney, during the heavy gales three weeks ago, has been got off by means of pontoons and empty casks, and taken to Rousay Island. The damage is very serious, but a committee of the directors of the company to whom the ship belongs having examined her are of opinion that she can be repaired. A gale of southeast wind broke out with renewed force, over the Orkney Islands yesterday, and the mail steamer from Aberdeen had to put back, there being a fearful sea running in the North Sea.


1884 February 15 Aberdeen Press & Journal

HOUSE OF COMMONS – THURSDAY.

PROCURATOR FISCAL AND PRIVATE AGENCIES. – Mr Cameron asked the Lord-Advocate whether Mr John Macrae, Procurator-Fiscal for Orkney, was then a private agent of General Burroughs; whether in connection with proceedings consequent on the receipt of a threatening letter by General Burroughs, Mr Macrae proceeded to the Island of Rousay in a gunboat, along with the superintendent of the Kirkwall police, and arrested Frederick Leonard and Samuel Mainland, lads of 14 and 15 years of age respectively, and sons of obnoxious crofters; whether Leonard was examined as a person suspected of complicity in the crime or as a witness; if as a prisoner would he explain why was he not examined in presence of the Sheriff; and if as a witness why was he made to give specimens of his handwriting by writing to the Fiscal’s dictation; whether Mainland was arrested and brought to Kirkwall for examination as a witness or as a suspected party; if as a witness, why was he not cited for precognitions in the usual manner, and why was he not examined before the Sheriff; and, if as a prisoner, why was he not detained in the hands of the police until examined; and whether he received the usual caution that anything he said would be used against him; whether it is a fact that Mainland was subjected to two hours examination, and made to sign his name several times; and if he would lay before the House a copy of the boys’ precognitions or declarations, and also of the warrants, if any, under which they were arrested.

The LORD-ADVOCATE – I am informed that Mr McRae, Procurator-Fiscal, is the private law agent of a General Burroughs. In connection with a threatening letter received by General Burroughs, the Sheriff of the county accompanied the Procurator-Fiscal and the Superintendent of Police, who is also a sheriff’s officer, in a gunboat which was then at the service of the Sheriff as a member of the Fishery Board to the island of Rousay. Frederick Leonard was not arrested, but voluntarily gave evidence in precognition as a witness. The Procurator-Fiscal states that when his examination was concluded, he was satisfied that he could give no information bearing on the charge, and he then asked him to give a specimen of his handwriting for the boy’s exoneration. Mainland was arrested on suspicion, under warrant of the Sheriff, and brought to Kirkwall. He was permitted by the police officer, on his own responsibility, to sleep with his brother, instead of being detained in prison. He did receive the usual caution from the Sheriff. His declaration was very carefully taken by the Sheriff, and occupied something over an hour. He signed each page in the usual way, as well as the marginal additions, The case is still under investigation, and I must decline to depart from the invariable rule under which the precognitions are kept private, and also the declarations, while inquiry is proceeding. I have, however, no objection to lay on the table of the House the warrant for Mainland’s apprehension, if it is desired.

Sir GEORGE CAMPBELL – May I ask whether any measures are in progress to obviate the scandal of a public officer like the Procurator Fiscal being at the same time private agent for the parties? (Hear, hear, and cheers.)

The LORD-ADVOCATE – The question has been very fully gone into, as my Hon. friend will find from the report of the Royal Commission relating to the Scotch Law Courts about 12 or 14 years ago. Speaking from recollection, the majority of the Commissioners thought there should be no absolute rule laid down against the double offices being held by one person; but recently, in point of fact, wherever the salary has been such as would enable a proper person to be obtained for the sole duty of Procurator-Fiscal, we have made it our business to obtain such a person.

Mr MACFARLANE asked whether it was not common in Scotland for gentlemen to act jointly as public prosecutors and private agents, and whether this was consistent with the impartial administration of the law?

The LORD-ADVOCATE – I am afraid that, except in a very few of the larger places in Scotland, the salaries are not such as would obtain the sole services of the proper sort of man for the place, and accordingly it is for the country to consider whether they would pay a very largely-increased salary in order to obtain the sole services of men who, if they were confined to the service, would probably have little to do in some places, and, therefore, would have much less of the qualifications to perform these duties than they have now. That is a matter of very great difficulty. I may say that, speaking for the procurators-fiscal of Scotland, as a whole, I see no reason for making an exception in this case, because, whenever they find, even when there is no restraint imposed upon them by the terms of their office, the least likelihood of there being any apparent collision between the discharge of public duty and private employment, they surrender private employment in favour of the discharge of public duty.

Mr MACFARLANE gave notice that he would, on an early day, call attention to the matter, and move a resolution for the removal of this scandal, (Hear, hear.)

THE ROUSAY CROFTERS’ CASE. – Dr CAMERON asked the Lord-Advocate whether it was true that General Burroughs, a landed proprietor of Orkney, who refused to give the Royal Commissioners appointed by Her Majesty to inquire into the condition of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland any assurance that he would not dispossess his tenants in consequence of any statements made in evidence before the Commission, had since evicted two of the crofter witnesses; whether it was true that he had obtained in the Sheriff Court of the county a decree of eviction against the brother of one of the witnesses to be carried out in case he sheltered his evicted brother or his family; and whether, in all or any of the cases, the decree granted was one of summary ejectment.

Mr DALRYMPLE – Before the Lord-Advocate answers the question, may I be permitted to ask whether he has received information to the effect that the witnesses referred to in the question were not crofters, but only relations of crofters, who were only permitted to remain temporarily in charge as squatters; and whether the relations existing between General Burroughs and his tenants had not been of an entirely peaceful character up to the period of the unfortunate excitement caused by the Crofter’s Commission.

The LORD-ADVOCATE – It is the case that General Burroughs, in September last, raised two actions in the Sheriff Court, in each of which two defenders were called. The action was for the removal of Peter Leonard and James Leonard from the farm of Digro at the term of Martinmas following. The father of Peter and James Leonard had been tenant of that farm – he had died within the year – and the object of the action appears to have been to obtain the removal of James Leonard as a squatter, occupying without title – Peter Leonard, who is a cabinetmaker in Kirkwall, having been called only as heir-in-law of his father. The other action was for the summary ejection of James Grieve and the removal of Malcolm Grieve, his brother, from the farm of Outerdykes, the object being in this case to eject James Grieve as a squatter without title, Malcolm Grieve having been made a party to the action only to provide for the possible event of its turning out that he had sub-let part of the farm to his brother, contrary to the rules of the estate. James Leonard and James Grieve both gave evidence before the Royal Commission. No appearance was entered, or defence made, in either action, and the Sheriff, therefore, as a matter of course, granted decree as craved in both of them. In answer to the additional question, I have to say that the point whether the men were tenants or squatters was not officially raised or disputed as there was no defence; and on the last part of the question, as to which there has been a dispute, it may be right to refer to the evidence given before the Commission, and letters which have appeared in the newspapers, and which, I believe, will form part of the print of the Commission, particularly to the letter dated 13th October, in which General Burroughs’ explanation and representations are given.

Dr CAMERON – I beg to give notice that on an early date I shall call attention to the conduct of General Burroughs in this matter.

Mr MAFARLANE – I understood the Lord-Advocate to say that one of these witnesses was a tenant and the other was a squatter. I wish to remind him that last year, in the Agricultural Holdings Act, he accepted an amendment of mine requiring that a yearly tenant should receive six months’ notice; and, if that Act is in force, how does it come that this tenant can be ejected summarily?

The LORD-ADVOCATE – The hon. member must have misunderstood my answer. I carefully avoided giving an opinion, not having the information on which to form an opinion as to whether the men were tenants or squatters. The matter has not come officially before the court. The last part of the question of the hon. member is very easily answered. The Agricultural Holdings Act did not come into operation until the 1st January of this year, and they were removed in October of last year. (Laughter.)…..


1884 March 21 Edinburgh Evening News

TWO MEN DROWNED IN ORKNEY. – A boat which arrived at Kirkwall yesterday from Rousay Island, reported that on Tuesday while two men belonging to the island, named William Louttit [31] and John Kirkness [27], were crossing Eynhallow Sound to the mainland for the purpose of procuring medical assistance [for John’s father James], there being no resident doctor in Rousay, the boat was sunk by a squall of wind, and both men perished. The accident was witnessed from the shore, but no assistance could be rendered. Both men were married, and leave widows and families. The accident has cast a deep gloom over the whole district.

[These were Wasbister men – Agricultural labourer William Louttit, Lower Blackhammer, was married to Margaret Gibson, Broland. They had three children; Maggie Jessie, Isabella, and William. Stonemason John Kirkness, Grain, married Isabella Anne Mainland in 1879. They had two children: John and Mary Jemima].


1884 June 25 Dundee Evening Telegraph

AN EVICTED CROFTER APPOINTED A LAND LAW REFORM LECTURER. – James Leonard, who appeared before the Royal Commission as a crofter delegate from the Island of Rousay, Orkney, and was afterwards evicted by General Burroughs, proprietor of the island, on account of the evidence he gave before the Commission, has been offered an appointment as lecturer in the interest of land law reform by the Highland Land Laws Reform Association of London. Mr Leonard is presently residing in Kirkwall, and has been occupying some of his time during the past winter in teaching music. He is a man of considerable ability, and much above the average crofter.


1884 August 14 Aberdeen Journal

SALE OF FARMS IN ORKNEY. – A number of farms belonging to Colonel Balfour of Balfour and Trenabie were yesterday put up to auction at Kirkwall, and in most instances high prices were realised. The farm of Bu of Orphir, consisting of 138 acres, put up at £2800, was knocked down to Mr Malcolm, Isbister, at £3800. The island of Eynhallow, in the parish of Rousay, consisting of 173 acres, put up at £1300, was knocked down to Mr Allan Gordon Cameron at £1495…..


1884 August 26 Aberdeen Press & Journal

SHIPPING CASUALTIES IN ORKNEY. – Intelligence reached Kirkwall yesterday afternoon that the steamer Lizzie Burroughs, trading between Kirkwall and Rousay, while sailing between the latter island and Egilshay, met with an accident. It is said that her boiler burst, but no person on board was injured, and that the crew succeeded in taking the steamer to Trumland pier, Rousay……..


1884 September 13 Aberdeen Press & Journal

MEETING GENERAL BURROUGHS’ TENANTRY. – A very pleasing meeting was held in Sourin Public School, Island of Rousay, of which General Burroughs is proprietor, on Thursday evening, to witness a presentation of a piece of silver plate to the esteemed wife of the proprietor on behalf of the school children of the island. Mr Sinclair of Newhouse presided, and Rev. Alex. J. Pirie, United Presbyterian Church, in making the presentation, consisting of an elaborately chased silver salver (furnished by Messrs Marshall, Edinburgh), paid a high compliment to General and Mrs Burroughs, referring particularly to the latter’s efforts for the good of the islanders, and to her conducting a Sabbath school herself at Trumland House. Mrs Burroughs personally replied, referring in a few graceful sentences the kindness shown her since she came as a bride to the island fourteen years ago. One of her chief pleasures, along with her husband, was to work for the benefit and advancement of the island and its inhabitants, and though sometimes they might make mistakes, and even fail to be understood by some, yet it was very cheering to them when they felt that their friends recognised that their intention was to do their best. General Burroughs added a few words of thanks for the honour Mrs Burroughs had received. Nothing, he assured his audience amid cheers, could give his wife and himself more pleasure than to find their own well-meant endeavours to promote peace and well being in the island so handsomely appreciated. He trusted the present kindly feeling existing between them all would never be broken or disturbed.

1885 February 28 Aberdeen Weekly Journal

HURRICANE AND SNOWSTORM – WRECKS AT ORKNEY. – The smack Bella, of Kirkwall, has gone ashore on the rocks on the west side of Rousay. The post boat which runs the mails between Stronsay and Auskerry Island has been wrecked. Two or three small boats have also been wrecked in the North Isles. A schooner was seen off the Moulhead of Deerness during the gale running under bare poles, but she has not turned up at Orkney. Reports of the storm from the North Isles state it to have been very severe. Houses have slates taken off, and in some places roofs have been tirred. The schooner Lima, of Leith (Smith master), a trader between Leith and Kirkwall, left Leith on Thursday night, and when up in the Orkneys had to heave to and run before the gale. The captain and crew, who belong to Orkney, went through Stronsay Firth, through Calf Sound, and brought up in Pierrowall Roads, Westray, about 25 miles past her destination. The vessel has received slight damage, but only one sail was spent.

During the hurricane on Saturday night the smack Elizabeth, of Kirkwall (Campbell, master and owner), has drifted from her anchors in Scapa Bay, and gone ashore. The [snow] drift rose on Saturday in great clouds, making heavy wreaths on the roads, and all communication is stopped. The roads are impassable. Several machines left for Stromness, and were unable to get there. One gentleman had to get himself, his pony, and machine dug out of the snow. A commercial traveller from Glasgow had to abandon his machine half-way to Stromness. The mail to Finstown had to be conveyed by foot messengers. The gale still is blowing, with increasing fury.


1885 March 23 Glasgow Herald

Our Kirkwall correspondent telegraphs: – The barque Atlantic, of Tonsberg, 592 tons, Captain Anderson, has gone ashore on the Holm of Scockness, to the east of the island of Rousay, Orkney, having lost her rudder in the heavy gale and went to pieces. The vessel was from Risør [Norway] for Belfast with ice, and had been 19 days out from the former port. With great difficulty the crew, numbering 12 hands, succeeded in getting ashore, although the sea was running very high. The shipwrecked sailors had their wants attended to by the islanders.


1885 March 30 Aberdeen Press & Journal

DEATH OF AN ORKNEY MINISTER. – Rev. James Gardner, who for the long period of 42 years has been minister of the parish of Rousay and Egilshay, died on Saturday. Mr Gardner was very much respected. Being of a retiring disposition, he scarcely ever took a prominent part in debates in the Church Courts. Mr Gardner’s wife predeceased him, but he is survived by two daughters, who are both married.


1885 May 2 Aberdeen People’s Journal

ROUSAY AND EGILSHAY SCHOOL BOARD. – There were eight candidates for the five seats. Those elected were: – James Leonard, Kirkwall, 82 [votes]; Rev. Archibald McCallum, Free Church, Rousay, 70; Lieutenant-General Burroughs, 64; J. Craigie, Hullion, Rousay, 56; James Johnston, Tankerness, 33. Unsuccessful – J. Sinclair, Newhouse, 24; S. Gibson, Bigland, 16; George Murrison, factor to Lieutenant-General Burroughs, 15. The fact that James Leonard, the evicted crofter, has been placed at the top the poll has caused some excitement here.


1885 May 13 Edinburgh Evening News

A NOVEL CALL. – After Divine service on Sunday, in the Established Church, Rousay, Lieutenant-General Burroughs proposed that the Rev. Mr Pirie, U.P. Church, be invited to accept the charge. The idea was to combine the two churches, Mr Pirie being a great favourite in Rousay. It is believed Mr Pirie will not accept the offer.


1885 May 19 Aberdeen Free Press

THE PROPOSED PRESBYTERIAN UNION ROUSAY, ORKNEY. – ln the U.P. Church, Rousay, Orkney, on Sunday, the Rev. A. J. Pirie referred to the proposal made by General Burroughs in the Established Church in the island the previous Sunday, to the effect that both congregations should unite with him (Mr Pirie) as minister. Mr Pirie said that the proposal had been made without any communication with him, and explained that, however desirous they might be of union with other Presbyterians, they could not as Voluntaries unite with the Church of Scotland so long as that Church was established by law.


1885 June 12 The Scotsman

LIVELY PROCEEDINGS AT ROUSAY SCHOOL BOARD. – The Rousay School Board have agreed to report to the Parochial Board a deficiency of £410, which will necessitate an assessment of 2s 6d per pound. It was also agreed to dismiss their clerk [George McCrie], and to appoint a committee with power to take legal steps to make him give up the Board’s books if necessary, whereupon the chairman, Lieutenant-General Burroughs, resigned his seat on the Board, and the Rev. Archibald MacCallum was appointed chairman during the Board’s tenure of office. The meeting, which was a very noisy one, lasted six hours and a half.


1885 August 6 Aberdeen Evening Express

ELECTION OF A MINISTER AT ROUSAY. – At a meeting of the parish church of Rousay congregation, held yesterday, a vote was taken between Rev. Mr Spark, Boddam, and the Rev. McLaren, Perth, and the Rev. Mr Falconer, Foxmay, as minister of Rousay. In the concluding vote the Rev. Mr Spark was elected by one of a majority over the Rev. Mr McLaren, in which the minority also unanimously acquiesced.


1885 August 25 Aberdeen Press & Journal

NEW LIGHTHOUSES FOR ORKNEY AND SHETLAND. – The Trinity yacht Galatea left Kirkwall for Granton yesterday. It is understood that it has been agreed to put one new lighthouse on Sacquoy Head, Rousay, Orkney, and another on the west side of Shetland.


1885 September 23 John o’ Groat Journal

ORKNEY. – At a meeting of Rousay and Egilshay School Board held on Friday – Rev. Mr MacCallum, F.C., chairman – notices of motion to be given at the next meeting were read that the teachers of Sourin and Wasbister schools in Rousay, and the teacher of Egilshay Island be informed that their services will be dispensed with. It may be remembered that at the last election for members, Mr Leonard, evicted crofter, and Rev. Mr MacCallum were at the top of the poll, and afterwards General Burroughs resigned his seat, and James Grieve, the other evicted crofter delegate, was elected in his stead.

ORDINATIONS. – …..The Rev. Mr Spark, late of Boddam, Aberdeenshire, was yesterday ordained as minister of the Established Church, Rousay. This is the first ordination in Rousay since the Disruption in the parish church.


1885 September 25 Shields Daily Gazette

FISHING BOAT DISASTER THE NORTH. – Intelligence has just reached Kirkwall that wreckage has come ashore at Skaill, Sandwick, Orkney, a short distance from where some of the wreckage was previously found, which would indicate that two fishing boats have been lost near the same place. One boat, as already reported, is the James McMillan, CN46, [Campbeltown, Kintyre] but the name of the second boat is not known. A sail, however, has come ashore at Rousay with the letters CN and the figures 162. During the gale on Saturday over 200 boats were counted off Birsay.


1885 September 30 Peterhead Sentinel

INDUCTION OF REV. MR SPARK AT ROUSAY. – The Rev. Alexander Spark was inducted to the church and parish of Rousay and Egilsay on 22nd September last, by the Presbytery of the North Isles. The Rev. Mr Caskey of Stronsay, in the absence of Rev. Mr Grant, preached and presided on the occasion. Alter an excellent sermon from Rev. ii., 10, and the usual questions having been put to and satisfactorily answered by Mr Spark, prayer was engaged in, and the Moderator, having descended from the pulpit, formally inducted Mr Spark to the ministry of the charge, the presbytery giving him the right hand of fellowship. Just before the benediction, Lieut. General Burroughs, C.B., stepped forward and, in the name of the ladies of the congregation in most appropriate terms presented Mr Spark with a handsome pulpit gown, cassock, and case of bands. Mr Spark, having put on the gown said, “General Burroughs, l am heartily thankful to you for being the means of conveying to me in name of the ladies, these handsome and beautiful gifts of which I feel myself to quite unworthy. The ladies must have put themselves to a great deal of trouble and expense in furnishing these beautiful gifts, and I hope my future ministry will prove itself worthy of their kindness. I have heard by report of your generous acts and benevolent deeds – not only yours but also those of your excellent lady – and I trust God will long spare you both to prosecute further acts of charity and benevolence.” The benediction having been pronounced, the congregation had the opportunity of shaking hands with Mr Spark as they dispersed. Mr Spark afterwards entertained a large company to luncheon at the manse.


1885 October 12 Portsmouth Evening News

Admiral [Charles] Fellowes, C.B., who has been the guest of Lieutenant-General Burroughs, C.B., at Trumland House, Rousay, joined the flagship of the Channel Fleet [ironclad frigate HMS Minotaur] on Saturday afternoon, and the vessels at once left Kirkwall for the Cromarty Firth.


1885 December 15 Glasgow Herald

THE GENERAL ELECTION.

THE POLLING IN ORKNEY AND SHETLAND. – Our Kirkwall correspondent telegraphed last night:- Polling in the Orkney and Shetland election began at eight this morning. There are in Orkney nine polling places and in Shetland ten. In Orkney, the weather being fine, there was a heavy poll at all the stations from which word has been received. At Kirkwall 700 out of 1100 voted. Electors from the islands of Rousay, Egilshay, Weir, Gairsay, and Shapinshay were conveyed to Kirkwall by the steamer Lizzie Burroughs and the packet Klydon, and from the time of their arrival till well on in the afternoon the polling booth was constantly full, and a large but orderly crowd of electors were waiting their turn to vote, which in some cases only came after hours of waiting…..  


1886 July 9 Forfar Herald

MR LEONARD LYELL’S CANDIDATURE. – Mr LyeII [Liberal Member of Parliament for Orkney and Shetland] addressed a meeting of Orkney electors at Rousay on Tuesday afternoon, devoting his remarks principally to an explanation of the provisions of the Crofters Bill and how they affected Orkney crofters. He next dealt with the Irish question, arguing that Ireland should have self-government. At the close Mr Lyell was asked why he supported the second reading of the Home Rule Bill if he did not approve of the details. He said that voting as he did left him free to oppose details which he did not approve of. A vote of confidence was proposed, but not seconded. A vote of no confidence in Mr Lyell, because of his action on the Orkney Roads Bill and the Irish question, was proposed, but as it was not seconded, the Chairman did not take a vote.


1886 July 19 The Scotsman

CASES of strained relations between School Boards and their teachers are hardly less frequent now than they were during the years that immediately followed the passing of the Education Act. It is true that there is less litigation now than there used to be; but that is because the points of law have for the most part been settled. The teachers, however, think that many of these points have been settled in the wrong way, and that does not reconcile them the more to what they deem the hardships of their lot. It is very desirable, in the interests of education, as well as of the schoolmasters, that some means should be devised of getting rid of the quarrelling and the irritation that form the chronic state of too many School Boards. As might be expected, it is almost exclusively in small provincial and rural Boards that these difficulties arise. These Boards sometimes include members who are not fitted to command the respect of educated men, and whose interference with school arrangements may be too warmly, though quite naturally, resented by the teachers. Then the petty jealousies and rivalries of a provincial town, or a rural village, are apt to reappear in the School Board, especially when it contains the representatives of the rival Churches. In the great towns the Boards cover a wide area; there is a large choice of well-qualified candidates, and, as a rule, the members are persons of education and good social position. Very rarely, therefore, do we find cases of controversy and of grievance arising between Boards and schoolmasters in the cities and larger towns of Scotland. But it is not the less necessary to cure the evil where it does exist, if that can be done by means that are practicable and just.

An unmistakeable case of what has all the appearance of high-handed dealing occurred lately at Rousay, in Orkney. Mr Moyes, one of the Public School teachers, was dismissed by the Board of Rousay and Egilshay on the strength of a petition against him sent to the Board by persons in the parish who are either crofters or sympathisers with crofters. It seems that after the Crofter Commission visited Kirkwall, someone sent an anonymous letter to General Burroughs, the owner of Rousay, threatening to shoot him. Two boys in Mr Moyes’ school were suspected of having concocted the letter, and the Procurator-Fiscal, having obtained a warrant, went to the schoolhouse and seized the copy-books of the two boys, in order to use them for the purpose of evidence. Now, Mr Moyes’ offence is that he did not resist the Procurator-Fiscal and defy the warrant of the Sheriff. On that ground, and on that ground alone, the crofters and their friends rose up against the schoolmaster, and resolved to boycott him. They found friends within the School Board, who were ready to do their bidding. Another schoolmaster under the same Board, Mr Cooper, was also petitioned against, and was treated in the same way. Let it be noted that in these cases the teachers were turned adrift for a matter which had nothing whatever to do with their ordinary school duties, and for an act failure to perform which would have exposed them to the penalties of the law…..

It may further be noted that in the case of Rousay, public opinion was actually the instigator of the injustice that was done by the Board to the schoolmasters. It was a clear case of the tail wagging the dog, and there may be other cases of the same kind…..


1886 July 30 The Scotsman

Letters to the Editor

ROUSAY AND EGILSHAY SCHOOL BOARD

Rousay, Orkney , July 26, 1886

SIR, – The School Board of Rousay and Egilshay met on the 23d inst. for the transaction of ordinary business, and took the opportunity of considering your leading article of the 19th inst., in which you refer to recent actions of the Board in terms which the facts of the case do not call for in the slightest degree. As clerk of the School Board, I am instructed to state that the representation of the case on which your article based is entirely unfounded and misleading, and probably deliberately and maliciously so.

The School Board unanimously and emphatically deny that their action, to which you have referred, was brought about by more local feeling on questions unconnected with educational work; and they are fully confident that their action will be approved by all who know the facts of the case, as not only dictated but urgently demanded by those very motives and reasons which ought to influence a body of men entrusted by a community with the charge of their educational interests.

I am not to enter on any discussion or controversy in your columns, and request, therefore, with the more confidence, your insertion of this note in the interests of truth. – I am , &c.          JAMES CRAIGIE, Clerk of School Board.

(There is no reason why this disclaimer should not be published, though the fact will not fail to be noted that it is unsupported by any tittle of evidence, such as supported the representations of the schoolmasters on which our comments were based. [Ed.])


1887 January 18 Dundee Evening Telegraph

THE LATE DAVID MARWICK, OF MELBOURNE. – This gentleman, a younger brother of Dr J. D. Marwick, City Clerk of Glasgow, died on the 8th of December, at his residence in the suburbs of Melbourne. Belonging to a family connected for many generations with the island of Rousay and with Kirkwall, Orkney, he emigrated when a youth to Victoria, and settled in Melbourne, of which he has been a citizen for over thirty years. A successful man of business, and of a warm, generous disposition, he will be missed both in public and in private life. At the time of his death he had almost completed his fifty-fourth year, having been born on the 8th of January 1833. He is survived by a widow, a son, and three daughters.


1887 February 11 Aberdeen Evening Express

THE ORKNEY CROFTERS. – At a meeting of the Rousay crofters – the Rev. Archibald McCallum in the chair – about forty crofters signified their intention of appealing to the Crofter Commission to fix fair rents, and it was stated that others not present intended following the same course. At the close of the meeting a collection was taken to raise a fund for common action.


1887 May 23 Aberdeen Evening Express

ORKNEY CROFTERS. – General Burroughs has intimated to the tenantry on his Rousay estate that he will allow an abatement of 10 per cent on the current half-year’s rent if paid within one month. It is reported that the crofters have resolved, however, not to accept the offered abatement, preferring to let the Crofters Commission settle the point, as they have already made application to have fair rents fixed.


1887 June 3 Aberdeen Press & Journal

MR CHAMBERLAIN AND THE ORKNEYS. – The Secretary of the Kirkwall Workmen’s Union, having written to Mr [Joseph] Chamberlain as to the correctness of the statement made recently by General Burroughs, Rousay, to the effect that Mr Chamberlain had stated to him that Orkney should never have come under the Crofters’ Act, has received Mr Chamberlain’s reply, which is in effect a denial. Mr Chamberlain says he met the General through invitation of a mutual friend, but that the whole interview was private, and that the General was not justified in quoting publicly anything which took place. While he cannot now tax his memory as to details of the conversation, he is quite sure General Burroughs is mistaken. Mr Chamberlain says further that as he was only in the Orkneys for a few hours he did not know enough of the circumstances to pass an opinion, but if there are a considerable number of crofter tenants, he knows no reason why the Act should not apply to the Orkneys.


1887 November 16 The Scotsman

A CROFTER CONFIRMED IN HIS HOLDING. – Proceedings were commenced in the Sheriff Court, Kirkwall, some time ago by General Burroughs, Rousay, to have William Craigie, Cruar, Rousay, ejected from his holding on the ground that he had no title. The crofter resisted the action, and applied to the Crofters Commission to have it declared that he was a crofter within the meaning of the Crofters Act. The Commissioners called for affidavits, and after considering these and other documents, have issued the following interlocutor in favour of the crofter, with modified expenses: – Wick, 12th November 1887. The Commissioners resumed consideration of this application, with affidavits lodged, under the order 21 October last, and whole other documents produced. Find that the applicant is a crofter within the meaning of the Crofter Holdings (Scotland) Act 1886, and hereby decide according; find the applicant entitled to expenses from the respondent; modify the same to the sum of £1 2s. sterling.


1887 November 25 The Scotsman

Letters to the Editor

“A CROFTER CONFIRMED IN HIS HOLDING.”

Rousay, Orkney, November 18, 1887.

Sir, – I observe in The Scotsman of the 16th inst., which reached me this day, a paragraph with the above heading, giving an imperfect account of the particulars of a case decided against me by the Crofter Commissioners. May I ask you to publish my statement of the case?

The following provision exists in all leases on my estate, viz.: – “All assignees, whether legal or voluntary, and all sub-tenants except those recognised in the tack by the landlord, are expressly excluded.”

The farm of Avalshay, enclosed by a stone dyke ring fence, and measuring about eighty-five acres arable and forty-eight acres pasture, in the island of Rousay, was let under the above condition to Mr. Leslie Mainland up to 1876. There was also the usual provision in his lease binding the tenant “to flit and remove himself, his wife, bairns, family, servants, goods and gear furth and from the said possession at the expiry of this tack.” To assist him in cultivating this farm, Leslie Mainland had a brother, John Mainland, and his family occupying one-half of the dwelling-house on the farm, whilst he and his family occupied the other half. He had also a nephew, a sister’s son, William Craigie, occupying a separate house on it called Cruar. Neither John Mainland nor William Craigie was recognised in the tack as a sub-tenant. The two families in the one house quarrelled, and Leslie resigned his lease in 1876. His brother John continued on the farm on a lease from year to year, and he continued his nephew William Craigie in the house he occupied on it, called Cruar. John Mainland threw up his lease in November 1886. The farm was left in very bad order, and I had to take it into my own occupation. William Craigie, the nephew, fully aware that he was bound to flit with his uncle in November 1886, called on me on the 12th October of that year and asked me to allow him to remain in the house of Cruar on the farm of Avalshay until the next May term, to enable him to look out for a house elsewhere. I did so. When the May term arrived, William Craigie again called on me and told me that the local Land Leaguers were urging him to contend with me, but he had no wish to do so. He asked me for a farm then vacant on my estate. I told him to see the factor about it. He did so, but offered so very inadequate a rent that he and my factor did not come to terms. William Craigie thereupon made application to the Crofter Commissioners, and they, as described in the Scotsman of the 16th inst., have decreed that he is a crofter, which means that he and his heirs are to be permitted to squat on the farm of Avalshay as long as they pay a rent to be fixed by the Crofter Commissioners, against whose decrees there is no appeal.

A result of their decision is that with this squatter on it the farm cannot be turned to profitable account without incurring the expense of walling him in; and it is unlettable. It would also appear that every farm-servant may now be decreed to be a crofter and have fixity of tenure in his dwelling.

As there appears to be no appeal against the decisions of the Crofter Commissioners, may I ask you to publish this statement of the case.

In order to point out the effect of the Crofter Holdings (Scotland) Act on landowners in “crofting counties” who have tenants paying £30 a year rent and under, called “crofters,” I may add that under its provisions land occupied by crofters is forcibly taken from landowners without compensation, and is handed over to a privileged class of persons called crofters, who have no just claim to it, and to their heirs and successors for ever, so long as they continue to pay, not its market value, but a fancy rent that may be put on it by the Crofter Commissioners. A continuance of this policy will soon reduce the “crofting” counties to the state of Ireland.

What, may I ask, would the tradesmen of our towns say and do if a Parliamentary Commission were to be appointed to cancel the debts owing to them by their debtors; and to ticket the goods in their shop windows at half their market prices, and compel them to sell at these prices? I think riots and disturbances would soon ensue. And yet this is the treatment being dealt out to landowners in the Highlands and Islands. – I am, &c. F. BURROUGHS.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1883

1883 March 21 Glasgow Herald

BARQUE ABANDONED IN THE ORKNEYS. – News reached Kirkwall yesterday that in the storm of Sunday the Norwegian barque Princess Gyda, of Drammen (Helgesen, master), was abandoned in a disabled condition at the west side of the island or Rousay, Orkney. The Princess Gyda was a comparatively new ship, of 300 tons, and was from Drammen to Glasgow with a cargo of ice. The vessel left Drammen on Thursday, and three days before she was abandoned she was driven by the storm between Stronsay and Sanday islands. An attempt was made to anchor at the west side of Eday island, but such was the violence of the wind that she parted from both her anchors. She drifted to the back of Rousay, where she was finally abandoned in a sinking condition, with the loss of sails and anchors. The ship was insured. The captain and nine of a crew landed at Scaebrake [Scabra] Head, Rousay, in the ship’s boat, having saved nothing but a small quantity of clothing. Yesterday morning they were brought to Kirkwall by the steamer Lizzie Burroughs, and taken charge of by Mr Cooper, solicitor, vice-consul in Orkney for the Norwegian Government.


1883 May 31 John o’ Groat Journal

SUPPOSED FATAL CLIFF ACCIDENT. – A sad accident in connection with the Queen’s birthday festivities is reported from the island of Rousay, Orkney. The steamer Lizzie Burroughs returned to Kirkwall Thursday evening with a party of excursionists who had been spending the day on that romantic island. One of the excursionists, a lad named Sinclair, on returning to the vessel, reported that he and a companion named [Alexander] Henderson [an orphan lad, the son of a late Aberdeenshire farmer, and employed as a painter’s apprentice living at Scapa], had gone for ramble to the cliffs on the north side of the island. When near the cliffs Sinclair stopped at a rabbit hole and endeavoured to dig the animals out. His companion, however, was anxious to go to cliffs, which are high and precipitous at the spot, to search for sea fowls’ eggs. A few minutes afterwards Sinclair looked up and could not see any trace of Henderson, and it is supposed that he had fallen over the cliff. Sinclair shouted out but received no answer, and he was afraid to go near the age of the cliffs, as it made him giddy. The lad Henderson had wanted ropes from the steamer to climb on the cliffs, but the crew would not give him any. The incident caused considerable excitement in Kirkwall.


1883 June 23 Aberdeen Press & Journal

THE FATAL ACCIDENT AT ROUSAY ISLAND. – The body of the boy Henderson, who lost his life by falling over the cliffs at Rousay Island, Orkney, on the Queen’s Birthday, has been found at Scockness, in that island. The cliff where the accident occurred is quite perpendicular, and it is supposed that the body had been carried into a crevice of the crags, where it had remained since the accident. It is considerably decomposed. The lad was a native of Orkney, but his parents belonged to Aberdeen.


1883 June 26 The Scotsman

THE ORKNEY CROFTERS. – A Meeting of tenants and crofters in the island of Rousay, Orkney, has been held in Sourin Public School. There was a good attendance. Some discussion took place as to the necessity of stating their grievances to the Royal Commissioners. After some preliminary arrangements, it was decided that a second meeting should be held, when a working committee and delegates would be appointed.


1883 July 4 Aberdeen Press and Journal

THE ORKNEY CROFTERS. – Another meeting of crofters has been held in a mill in Rousay Island, Orkney. Mr Leonard, who presided, said that neither he nor any of the tenants bore any ill-will to the proprietor or his factor, and he himself would have much pleasure in having a friendly conference with these gentlemen. He, however, thought they would avail themselves of the opportunity of appearing before the Royal Commission, and stating what were really the facts. Delegates were appointed, and another meeting arranged for. Rousay Island belongs to Major General Burroughs, who recently erected a fine residence on the estate.


1883 July 18 Aberdeen Press & Journal

INDUCTION AT ROUSAY, ORKNEY. – The U.P. Presbytery of Orkney met at Rousay Island yesterday and inducted the Rev. Alexander J. Pirie, who recently seceded from the Congregational Church, as minister of Rousay U.P. Church. The weather was exceedingly fine, and there were large attendances of islanders at the services. The Rev. Mr Smith preached, and the Rev. Mr Webster presided at the induction, and addressed the minister. In the evening a largely-attended congregational soiree was held.


[Now we come to the most important events in the history of Rousay. The island underwent a transition from a peasant economy to what was essentially the modern system of farming. The proprietor of the estate had the reputation of being the worst of the Orkney lairds and change was particularly traumatic with crofters and cottars the victims of ruthless improvement. Conflict came with the visit of the Royal Commission whose findings were to lead to the Crofters Act. General Burroughs evicted those tenants who gave evidence to the Commission, and with tensions running high a gunboat was sent to the island to keep the peace. Burroughs would have driven every crofter from his estate had not the Crofters Act prevented him but the crofters challenged the laird’s right to control the social and economic life of Rousay.

What follows is very detailed and drawn out, and there is a great deal of reading in the columns of solid newspaper text…….]


1883 July 24 Glasgow Herald

THE CROFTERS’ COMMISSION. MEETING AT KIRKWALL. (From our special correspondent.) Kirkwall, Monday night.

The Commission held their last meeting in Orkney to-day at Kirkwall. The greater part of the sitting was occupied in hearing delegates from the estate of General Burroughs, in the island of Rousay. The Free Church clergyman of the place submitted a long statement of grievances and hardships suffered by the people. Excessive rack-renting, evictions in which people had been forcibly ejected from their dwellings, and other serious allegations of mal-administration, were charged against the management of the estate. One delegate asked to have the promise of the proprietor that no harm would come to the tenants on account of the evidence they gave before the Commission. General Burroughs was present in the room, and Lord Napier turned to him evidently expecting that the desired assurance would be given at once. He seemed rather astonished when the gallant officer politely but decidedly declined to enter into any such arrangement. It was pointed out to him that proprietors all through the Western Islands had readily given a similar assurance, but even after a quarter of an hour’s persuasive argument on the part of the Chairman and Mr Cameron the General refused to be convinced against his will. The delegates had therefore to go without an assurance, which they seemed to think would have been of some service to them, and to console themselves with the statement of their landlord that he could not regard those who complained with the same friendly feeling as he looked upon others who had nothing to say about the government of his property. There was a large attendance of the public in the court-house during the day. All the commissioners were present, and Lord Napier presided.

The Rev. A. McCallum, 30, Free Church minister, island of Rousay, said he had been requested by a deputation of the crofters to present a statement on their behalf. The island was the property of General Traill Burroughs, C.B. The crofters desired to represent to the Commissioners that they were in a condition of great and increasing poverty, and they were convinced that their present condition was owing to the system of land management in Rousay for the last thirty years, and especially for the last twenty years. During the past forty years the rental of Rousay had increased threefold, while in the same time the population had decreased, and their substance had become less. In 1841 the rental of the whole parish, which included the islands of Rousay, Egilshay, Enhallow, and Wire, was only £1500. Now it was about £3876 I9s 4d. But nearly the whole of that increase had been in Rousay. Egilshay belonged to Dr Baikie, and the rental of that island had not been increased to any extent. The population in 1841 was 1263. Now it was 1118, a decrease which if it had occurred in the nation at large would have caused alarm. That the people had become poorer might be illustrated by this, that in 1841 there were 18 herring boats of 980 tons, while now there were only 4. The main cause of their present state was excessive rack-renting of land, and they had to complain of the taking away of their hill pasture and commons. In 1841 of the former there were 10,440 acres, and there were 7500 acres of undivided common. These had been taken away by the proprietor for his own use, and the crofters were never in any way compensated for the deprivation. On the contrary the rents had been raised, some rents being even quadrupled. It was an old belief that the people had a right to the hill pastures and commons, and the Commissioners, it was hoped, would make a searching inquiry into these matters and the way in which the old Orkney tenures so favourable to the people had been superseded. They also complained that there had been harsh and needless evictions of large bodies of the people. In or about the years 1842-3 some forty families were ejected from the lands of Quendale and Westside, Rousay. These people settled chiefly on barren or heather land, and after they had built houses at their own expense and reclaimed the land rents were laid upon them. These had since been frequently raised. If such was to be done, they should at least have been paid for their buildings and reclamations. Now these people were mere tenants at will in the houses they had built and on the land they reclaimed. Another case of eviction occurred at Nears, where three families were turned out of their houses in the depth of winter. A recent case of a similar kind occurred at Hammer, the land being added to a large farm. Being dispossessed of his land, the crofter and his family had been reduced to poverty. The man himself had fallen into bad health and had to be sent to the Edinburgh Infirmary, and his wife and children had been refused parochial relief. Another case was that of the tenant of East Craie, in Sourin, who had at an advanced age reclaimed land and built a dwelling house entirely at his own expense. By the authority of the proprietor a rent was imposed upon him, and that rent had now been increased about fivefold. A special aggravation of wrong in this case was that he had been previously evicted. Another matter was the lack of compensation for improvements – that they did not possess liberty to improve, even when they were willing to do so, except on the proprietors terms, which involved an intolerable and apparently interminable burden of interest, amounting to a permanent increase of rent. The utter insecurity of tenure acted with disheartening effect upon them. They begged that there might be a re-valuation of land, so that a fair rent might be fixed as between proprietor and tenant; that they should have security in their holdings; that their holdings should be increased; and that the question of the hill pasture should be settled in some way – say, by restitution or otherwise. Many of their houses were unfit for human habitation. It was not merely in their substance that they felt the burden and evil effects of the present land system as it was worked in Rousay. The utterly inconsiderate and unrighteous manner in which they were treated tended to produce in their once peaceful and happy community those features of disturbance and outrage which had made another part of the kingdom so much an object of remark. That was the case with them in too great a proportion, and it must increase unless relief was afforded them. The facts with reference to the eviction of the tenants of Hammer alone would account for the disturbance and evil feeling that, they were sorry to know, was arising in their midst. It was said “oppression would make wise men mad.” Ever since that eviction, which was accompanied by a change of the lands of four farms, the district had been in a state of disturbance, and various acts of outrage had been committed. A sheep of one farmer had been made away with, implements of husbandry had been broken at night, and violent scenes had taken place between individuals who had felt themselves aggrieved and injured in their feeling and interest by needless and oppressive changes. It was also mentioned, by way of complaint that the Procurator Fiscal, who had to investigate such cases, was the law agent of General Burroughs. They felt that all the things which they had mentioned were not as they ought to be amongst a free and Christian community, and they humbly begged that the Commissioners might speedily cause a removal of all those evils and hardships that were the source of such a state of affairs. Mr McCallum said he desired to add that the statement which he had read was entirely the crofters’ own. So far as he was aware this movement did not originate in consequence of personal feelings against their distinguished proprietor or against his factor. It was a movement entirely against the system and the manner in which they used the powers which the law gave them.

By the Chairman – He wrote the statement which he had read, the facts being supplied to him by James Leonard, the chairman of the crofters’ meeting. The document had been dictated almost entirely to him. All he had to do was to put the statement into proper grammar. He substantially agreed with the statement throughout. He thought the larger farms were moderately rented. The rent of the farm of Westness was £500. That farm consisted largely of ground taken from the people who were evicted from Quendale. There were from 90 to 100 holdings on the estate. So far as he was aware no new form of industry had been introduced to account for or justify, the unusually large increase of rental. There had been only a very small increase in the rental on the Egilshay estate, on which the land was if anything better than on the Rousay property. There was a great difference in the physical appearance of the people of the two estates. He could tell an Egilshay man if he met him in the parish by his comfortable appearance. (Laughter.) General Burroughs encouraged many good things on the island in a moral and social way. His example in many respects was a model to proprietors. There was a belief that there was a clause in the treaty which ceded Orkney to Scotland reserving the right of settlement in the islands for the people then in the islands.

But there are Acts of the Scottish Parliament superseding those alleged diplomatic rights?

Yes; but I understand that the people hold that the Scottish Parliament had no right to deal with their property in that manner without consulting them. (Laughter.) They ask who composed the Parliament.

Mr Fraser-Mackintosh – Were there no representatives from Orkney in the Scottish Parliament?

I am sorry to say that they had no great confidence in any representatives even though there were. (Laughter.) It is known that the votes of members of Parliament were bought and sold at the Union. (Laughter.)

The Chairman – Well, that is very susceptible of discussion. (Laughter.)

By the Chairman – There was usually an out-house for the cattle. As a rule there was a separate entrance to the dwelling-house. Some of the house were in a very undesirable condition.

Has the officer of public health ever denounced any of the houses?

I don’t know to whom you refer. (Laughter.)

Is there no inspector of nuisances appointed in the parish?

There is an inspector of poor who in a manner holds that office, but he is not a man who possesses in the slightest degree the confidence of the people.

Are the causes of outrage to which you referred peculiar to the island, or are cases of malicious injury not rather a distinctive feature in the limited amount of crime in this part of the country?

The cause that evoked these outrages was the land. The Procurator-Fiscal was law agent to the proprietor. He was informed that that gentleman had great influence in the management of the estate. There was a resident factor on the estate.

The Chairman – There is something rather unsatisfactory in my mind in the language of the memorial on the one side and your personal reference to the proprietor on the other. You said that it is the system that is complained of, and not the character of the proprietor. But in the memorial there is a strong indication of personal mal-administration, with which the law has nothing in the world to do, because the law does not consolidate land, turn out tenants, or prevent a proprietor from giving compensation. The whole memorial seems to be a direct incrimination of the proprietor, while on the other hand you said you did not complain of the proprietor. What do you mean by that?

Witness – I think that there is nothing inconsistent in that. Our complaint is that the laws of the country allow General Burroughs to do such things.

They don’t oblige him, or encourage him, to do them?

No; but they allow him, and our complaint is that he does it. The proprietor certainly showed a very good moral example. He discouraged all forms of vice, such as drunkenness, and he took a great interest in educational matters. He was kindly in his manner with the people, but that did not alter at all the facts of the case. There was no resident medical officer in the island.

By Sir Kenneth Mackenzie – The evictions in 1842 were before General Burroughs’s time. The people had remonstrated with the proprietor, but no remedy had been provided. There were seven large farms made since 1842, and some of the small tenants had increased their crofts by reclamation.

By Mr Fraser-Mackintosh – He was a native of Glasgow, and had been three years at Rousay. As far as he had observed from is his intercourse with the people, he was disposed to concur in the correctness of the statement he had read from the people. He had nothing to say against General Burroughs’ character, but he complained about the laws which enabled a landlord to do such things.

Mr Cameron – If there have been no evictions recently, and if the people are reclaiming more land, would that not indicate that they have no cause for alarm?

Not in my opinion.

By the Chairman – He would be very sorry to say that the overcrowding prevailed to such a degree as to be prejudicial to the morality and decency of the people.

George Leonard (67), crofter, Triplow [Treblo], Rousay, cited his own experience, with the view of showing that the rents were raised in consequence of improvements done by the tenants, and that they were liable to be removed without getting compensation.

Mrs Georgina Inkster (35), wife of Hugh Inkster, crofter, late tenant of Hammer [Wasbister], gave an account of the circumstances under which her husband was turned out of his holding five years ago. Her husband, who had formerly managed his mother’s croft, got a new croft of 15 acres at a rent of £15, and the old one was then given up. They held the croft three a years, paying their rents regularly. At the end of three years the land was taken from them and put into a neighbouring farm. They were left in their house, but without any means of subsistence, and they were now entirely destitute.

James Leonard (46), crofter and mason, Digro, Rousay, said he had been requested to ask a promise from the proprietor that no harm would be done to the crofters for giving their evidence before the Commission.

The Chairman – Is the proprietor or the factor present?

General Burroughs – I am the proprietor, and my factor is also present.

The Chairman – Are you prepared to give the promise asked by the tenants on your estate?

General Burroughs – I am not prepared to do so. It is contrary to human nature that I could treat men who treat me so inimically as one or two have done here the same as I could other men who are friendly disposed. Whatever I might say, my feelings could not be the same after they have vilified me in the way they have been doing.

The Chairman – Then you are not prepared to give an assurance of that nature?

General Burroughs – I am not prepared to do so, my Lord.

The Chairman – You are aware that you will have an opportunity, either in person or through your factor, of making any statement which you please afterwards?

General Burroughs – Yes.

The Chairman – But notwithstanding that you are not prepared to give that assurance?

General Burroughs – I cannot have the same feeling towards them. I have tried to do my duty as honourably and as justly as I possibly could all l my life with these tenants as with anybody else, and I really cannot have the same feelings towards men who come forward and state the things that have been stated here. It is contrary to human nature to be so kind towards them as to others who do not make these complaints.

The Chairman – But, General Burroughs, if I may take the liberty of saying so, I have not asked you about the state of your feelings towards them. I have asked you about your intentions towards them.

General Burroughs – They are not slaves. They are free men, and they can go away if they choose. I have between ninety and a hundred tenants, and only one or two are here. Mr McCallum is on the roll of the tenants, but the others are not on the roll at all.

Rev. Mr McCallum – We speak on behalf of all the tenants.

The Chairman – Well, but I want to arrive at an understanding with General Burroughs. I would ask him first to consider this. We are sitting here as a Royal Commission, and our object and duty is to elicit the truth. In other parts of the county we have generally found that the proprietors were willing to assist us by giving an assurance such as is asked here. In that way the Commissioners have had perfect freedom in their inquiry, and the witnesses have had perfect freedom in their statements. The examination in reference to your estate has nearly terminated, but still the absence of an assurance on your part might have the effect of restraining the people from saying what they really feel. I now ask whether on reconsideration you are not able to state that nothing that is said here to-day will influence your actions towards the delegates, whatever your feelings may be?

General Burroughs – I feel perfectly certain that anything I do after this will always be put down to this meeting. The people think they can do what they please. The lease of this delegate’s father is just about out, and if I were to remove him now he would say it was on account of what he is doing here. Everything I do will be attributed to this meeting. My hands will not be tied up completely, so that I can do nothing. That is my feeling on the subject. Is the property mine, or is it not mine? If it is mine, surely I can do what I consider best for it. If the people are not contented and happy they can go away.

Mr Cameron – Perhaps it will be sufficient if you say anything you may do on your estate will be done for reasons connected with the proper working of the estate, and not in consequence of anything that might be said here.

General Burroughs – Am I to keep discontented people? There is no satisfying some people. You may do whatever you please, and they will never be happy or contented.

Mr Cameron – What we want you to give us is an assurance that anything you do on your estate would have been done in any case.

General Burroughs – I quite agree with that.

Mr Cameron – And would not be done in consequence of any evidence that might be given here?

General Burroughs – Well, I will say that I will do my duty honourably and justly, as I have hitherto done. My intention was to alter all these little farms into larger holdings and to make labourers of those who are not able to work their farms. That is what I have done in the case of Mrs Inkster. I left her husband in the house which they had.

The Chairman – I understand that General Burroughs has not given a distinct, unambiguous assurance that he will do nothing to anyone in consequence of what may be said here to-day. If that is the case, it remains with the delegate to give evidence or not as he likes.

The Delegate – You see the state of matters now, and you see the necessity for a change. I am happy to see this Commission here to-day.

The Chairman – You are not bound to give any opinion about the Commission.

The Delegate, remarking that he did not mean to be cowed by landlordism, went on to state his own case, which was that his father had improved land from the hill, and had built a house upon the place, and was now paying as high rent for it as a tenant-at-will. He had been asked to state that the people hoped that the Commission would do what it could to remove the reign of terror which the Commissioners could not fail to see existed in the island. To give an instance of what was called unrighteous treatment, he might mention that there was an old woman in the island who had a small croft. She was on her death-bed, and the proprietor told her she would have to leave. She replied that she would never leave it until she went to the house from which no man could remove her. He struck his stick on the ground, and said – “Would you like to buried on this floor?”

By Mr Fraser-Mackintosh – He was not aware of any money which had been laid out by the proprietor for the benefit of small tenants. If there had been, it was charged at 6½ per cent. of interest. They were in earnest in Rousay. It was not sham work there. They had a local despotism which they wished removed.

James Grieve, cottar, Rousay, concurred with the other delegates.

Mr W. T. Norquay (54), banker, South Ronaldshay, stated that the condition of the people generally in the island had considerably improved in recent years. The want of telegraphic communication with the island was felt to be a great inconvenience, and a decided commercial disadvantage.

By Sir Kenneth Mackenzie – There were some small proprietors on the island, and as rule their houses were better than those of the tenants.

By Professor Mackinnon – When one of those small farms of about 15 acres came into the market it was sometimes sold at 30 years’ purchase of the rateable value.

Lieut.-General Burroughs, C.B. (52), proprietor of Rousay, said he inherited the island from his grand-uncle, George William Traill. He settled on it in the year 1873, after he left the army, and he resided on it except during the winter (three months). He had heard himself that day put in a light which he never knew himself put in before, and he could not believe that what had been stated about him was the opinion of the Rousay people generally. Those present that day, he believed, represented the opinion of Rousay just as the three tailors of Tooley Street represented the people of England on a former occasion. (Laughter.) He did not think that the respectable people of Rousay had mixed themselves up in this movement at all. (Sensation.) As to the rents having been increased threefold, he found that between 1840 and 1882 there had been spent £37,405 on the estate. In that was included a sum for the houses he had built, and a sum of £3020 for the support of the poor, as they had no assessment in Rousay. It also included £442 spent on roads, more than he received from the Statute Labour Act. Some of the cases of rise of rent had occurred in this way:- Tenants got improving leases of 21 years to take in common. The first seven years was at a 1s per acre, for the second seven years 2s, and for the third 3s. At that figure they were supposed to improve the land and build a house, and at the end of 21 years it was understood that the place would be valued, and a small rent put upon it. As to the poverty in Rousay, he only wished the Commissioners could have come to the island and satisfied themselves as to the condition of the inhabitants. He had heard that there was half a million of money in the banks of Kirkwall belonging to the Orkney tenants, and of that sum the Rousay people owned a good deal. Regarding the commons, when he was away in the army the people had the hill all to themselves, but he found that the effect of this was that they neglected the cultivation of their crofts. There was about 4000 acres for which he was not getting a penny, and he thought he might as well try and turn an honest penny as well as others. (Laughter.) He therefore had it enclosed and put sheep on it. No tenant, however, was left without any pasture. The people had as much right to the common as he had to their hats and coats. It never belonged to them. It was said that the rents on the Egilshay estate had not been raised, but that was because there had not been much expended by the proprietor. There certainly had been same consolidation of the small farms, which he considered had been to the benefit of the estate. The farms of Quendale and Westside, which formerly brought him £80, now were rented at £600. There had been no needless evictions. If people could not pay their rents they were removed from their crofts to cottages which were built for them, and that he considered had been for their good. He did not think that the rises of rent which had taken place were too high considering the increased value of produce. Forty years ago cattle fetched only £3 a-piece, and sheep 2s 6d. Now they were worth £18 to £30 a-piece. As to the Nearse eviction, he did not know about it. It was in 1842. As to the Hammer case, this man lnkster would not pay his school rates, and when the schoolmaster went to him he was assaulted. The man was not able to cultivate a farm of that sort, and so it was taken from him. He proposed to reduce Inkster to be a labourer, and he left him to occupy the house without the land. He could not say why Mrs Inkster could not get relief, as he was not at home then. It was said that they were not as they should be in a Christian country. Well, he was afraid they were not, and it was a pity it was so. The delegates said they wanted land at a fair rent and fixity of tenure. Well, when he and his wife went to Edinburgh to take a house which they might think highly rented, why should they not to be able to call in someone to have it “fair” rented and to give him a fixity of tenure? If the price of land was to be fixed in the way suggested, why not the price of houses and of coats and hats? Everything, surely, had its market price. About the outrages, he believed that what led to them was a quarrel between two farmers’ wives. (Laughter.) One of them threw a basin of dirty water over the other. The case was taken to the Court, and both had partisans, and it was these people that annoyed each other in the way described. As to the Egilshay men being better than those of Rousay, that he could not admit. He could show them a specimen of a Rousay man. Will you stand up, Mr Reid?

Sheriff Nicolson – Who is he?

General Burroughs – The Inspector of Poor.

Sheriff Nicolson (sotto voce) – The minion of a bloated aristocracy.

General Burroughs, continuing, said he did not see why the Rousay people should not go out into the world like others. There were no families in any station of life who all remained at home. One explanation of the diminution of the number of fishing boats was perhaps this, that he had discouraged men being both fishers and farmers, as they could not succeed at both. He was very much surprised at the abuse which had been heaped on him that day. His wife and he had tried to do their best for the people. His wife took great interest in the houses of the small tenants, and gave a prize yearly for the best-kept cottage. It was very difficult work getting some of them to keep their houses clean. As to what had been said about the Inspector of Poor, that he did not possess the confidence of the people, he could only reply that the inspector was a hard-working, trustworthy, honest man, whom he thought all respected. What were the acts of oppression which he (General Burroughs) had committed he really was not aware. But the people were not slaves, and if they did not like the place then they could go away. Many of them did go away to better themselves.

Mr Fraser-Mackintosh – Suppose you gave them encouragement to remain?

Witness replied that he did so to the best of his ability. He could not make the land larger than it was. But he had expended largely on public works connected with the estate. Formerly every man made his own improvements, and got back about one-third of the rental for what he did. But that did not answer. Improvements were begun, but never finished. Now he did all the necessary improvements himself and charged the tenants interest. Not a few of the crofters had leases, but he did not give leases to those paying less than £4 or £5 rent. There had been no cases of what could be called eviction on his estate. If a man had to leave one place he had always tried to provide him with another. Over all, his land was not rented at more than 10s an acre. In some cases it was as high as £1 an acre. He had been a good deal through the world, and he did not know any people so well off as those in Orkney. They were well housed, they were well clad, and at all times they could go to sea, and in a few hours catch as many fish as would keep a family for a week. (“Oh,” and laughter.) As to Leonard, the mason, he had never seen him at work on his croft, and that was perhaps why it was unproductive. He was always away at other work. As to the story of the old woman, Mrs Cooper, he did not remember anything about it.

Mr McCallum (interposing) – I had it from her own lips.

General Burroughs – I don’t remember it.

Mr Fraser Mackintosh – Don’t you wish to make some expression regarding it now after what Mr McCallum had said?

General Burroughs said he would be very sorry to believe he said such a thing. His wife and he were very kind to the old woman, and he did not believe he did say it. There was a quarrel between her and her son about the croft, and something that he had said must have been twisted to give it that meaning. As to Mr Leonard, his personal expenditure must be considerable. He saw his family all at church, dressed in the latest fashion. (Laughter.) He (General Burroughs) had been told by a Kirkwall merchant that at the Lammas Fair he turned over £500 in one week in flowers for women’s bonnets, which had been bought by farmers’ daughters and their servants. (Laughter.)

Rev. Mr McCallum asked leave to make an explanation. Notwithstanding what Gen. Burroughs had said he still adhered to his former statements as to the poor’s assessment. The reason why there was not such an assessment was that the tenant paid all the road money and the proprietor paid the poor-rates.

Mr Leonard said that as regarded the grown-up members of his family what they bought was paid for by their own industry. His young children were certainly not dressed in Paris fashions, and there were many on the island who could not go to church at all for want of clothes.

The examination of General Burroughs was continued by Mr Fraser Mackintosh – About £17,000 was spent on his own mansion-house. That left £20,000.

Do you think that that is a large expenditure on the estate. £20,000 in forty years is only £500 a year? – Yes, he thought it considerable.

You think that the rental in these circumstances has not been unduly increased?

No. The acreage of the island was about 12,000 acres. 2000 of these were in the hands of one tenant. Most of the larger farms were in the hands of Rousay people who had risen from being in a smaller way.

What do you think is the reason of the dissatisfaction which has brought these delegates here today?

They have got wrong ideas. They expect to get a great deal. They want to be like the Irish and have revised rents and fixity of tenure, and all that sort of thing.

Why do you think delegates have not come from South Ronaldshay?

Perhaps the Rousay people thought I would not come back yet from Germany.

Are you prepared to say that these people have no cause for complaint?

I don’t believe they have. That is my firm conviction.

How many of your tenants do you think have money in the bank? – He had known several cases. He incidentally heard of one of his own tenants who was always out at the elbows, and whom, if one met on the street, one would be inclined to offer a shilling to, who offered for a £1200 farm on another estate, the officials on which had satisfied themselves as to his means.

By the Chairman – He had always tried to live on the best terms with his tenants – in fact he always thought he was until that day. The valuations were generally made by factors and lawyers.

Don’t you think that factors and lawyers are more identified with the feelings and interests of the proprietors than the tenants?

I have always found them on the side of the tenants.

By Professor Mackinnon – His experience was that the tenants were better able to protect themselves than the landlords, and he thought a law should be made to protect the landlords rather than the tenants. (Laughter.) In one form or other the rental of the estate had been trebled, but it was only nominal, as the money did not come into his pocket. The most of the work done on the estate was executed by local labour.

By Sheriff Nicolson – He was aware that a meeting of tenants on his property was held last Saturday. He would be surprised to learn that it was attended by a large number of people, many of whom had come long distances. He would rather like to get rid of his tenants if they were discontented.

Alex. Williamson, crofter, West Puldrite, complained that he had been removed from a holding which he had taken in from the commonty. It was on the property of Mr Heddle. He estimated the moneys he had spent and the labour he had given to the place at £175.

John Brown (54), crofter, Kelton, Kirkwall, complained that the people in his locality were prohibited from taking the sea-weed from the shore near their holdings.

Benjamin Swanson, factor and ground officer, North Ronaldshay, said the tenants had no complaints there, and he believed it was as happy a district as could be found in Orkney. The island was occupied by small tenants, whose rents ranged from £2 to £39 10s. Dr Traill was the sole proprietor. Mr Muir, who spoke about Ronaldshay at the meeting in Sanday, was not appointed a delegate to represent them. He did not believe Mr Muir was ever in the island, and he thought he did more harm than any man he knew in sending goods there. The landlord was quite willing to grant leases, but the tenants did not want them. The young people were too much addicted to staying on the island, but sub-division was prevented as much as possible.

Mr John Campbell Mellis, Sheriff-Substitute of Orkney, in reply to the Chairman, said he understood that the law did not allow people to take away seaweed or sand without the consent of the riparian proprietor. He desired to guard himself against legal opinions on questions which might arise in the islands. The learned Sheriff remarked that comparing the Orkneys with the Western Islands, where there was a strong desire on the part of the people to remain at home in the land of their fathers, he had been impressed with the difference of the Orkney people in this respect. While they hold to their native place as warmly as others, and were fond of coming back to it, they did not stick to it simply because they happened to be born in it. They had great enterprise, and went out to make their way in the world.

The Commissioners rose at six o’clock, to meet tomorrow on the mainland at Bettyhill, Sutherlandshire.


1883 July 25 Sunderland Daily Echo

THE HIGHLAND CROFTERS. “A REAL DESPOTISM.” – Lord Napier and his colleagues on the Crofters Commission have concluded their investigation of the grievances of the Orkney tenants. A remarkable scene occurred at Kirkwall on Monday. The tenants of Rousay, an island of which General Burroughs, C.B., is the proprietor, laid before the Commissioners a memorial strongly complaining of the treatment to which they had been subjected, and by which they had been reduced to poverty. They complain of excessive rackrenting, the deprivation of hill pastures and commons, “harsh and needless evictions of large bodies of the people,” and that the building of houses and the reclamation of land and other improvements by the tenants had been made the occasion for raising the rents. One of the crofters, before giving evidence in support of the memorial, asked that a promise should be given by the proprietor that no injury would be done to him for appearing before the Commission. The “proprietor” refused, notwithstanding the earnest and pointed appeal of the Chairman to give the assurance the tenant requested. The gallant General complained in his turn that the tenants on Rousay were “getting wrong ideas in their heads, like the Irish,” and he suggested that if they were not “happy” on his property the way was open to them to go elsewhere. He would not hear that they were over-rented, or were not, in fact, living in a sort of Arcadia. His expenditure on his mansion had amounted to £17,000, and during the forty years of his proprietorship he had spent £20,000, or £500 a year, on the estate. This latter item, he thought, was a “considerable one.” Also he had something to say about the way in which the wives and daughters of his tenants were dressed. One of the witnesses grimly said that they were in earnest in Rousay – it was a “real despotism,” and not a sham there.


1883 August 17 Glasgow Herald

General Burroughs and party shot over Rousay moors on the 13th, and bagged 15 brace of grouse and a number of snipe, golden plovers, and hares. The birds were irregular in size, some being well grown, while several cheepers were seen.


1883 August 21 Aberdeen Journal

On Trumbland moors on Rousay Island, Orkney, on the 15th, General Burroughs, Colonel Macpherson, and Major Macgregor bagged eight brace snipe and some golden plover and other extras, and the following day the two latter gentlemen killed in a few hours 16½ brace grouse, 2 brace snipe, and 3 hares. Good fishing is also being enjoyed on the Rousay lochs, and Mr Cameron landing 54 trout in a few hours.


1883 August 25 Dundee Courier

There is in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland at least one crofter who does not blame his landlord for the misfortunes of the crofters. At a meeting of farmers just held in the Island of Rousay, Mr John Gibson, farmer, Langskaill, in proposing the health of General Burroughs, the proprietor, referred to the complaints which had recently been made of rises of rent on the General’s estate, and for which he had been held responsible. This candid crofter would appear to have the unusual habit in the Highlands of looking facts in the face. He could not help thinking and saying that it was very unkind to blame General Burroughs for accepting the highest rent offered for his crofts. General Burroughs, said Mr Gibson, wished all his tenants to live comfortably; but no sooner was there a vacant farm to let than there were a dozen competitors for it, each trying to outbid his neighbour. The deduction of this very candid Highlander was that the men who came mobbing the General and trying to beggar their neighbour were entirely to blame. As a natural result, remarked Mr Gibson, some farms did get rented above their actual value. “But,” went on this outspoken islander, “no unprejudiced person would think of blaming the General for a result brought about in many cases by the tenant themselves.”

This farmer of Rousay will not be popular among the crofter class, for the inference of his remarks is – a truth which we have frequently expressed – that these islands can only support a certain population, and that one cause of the miserable condition of so many of the crofters is that not a few of the islands, and some parts of the Highland mainland, are over-populated. This shrewd islander, Mr Gibson, has been able to grasp the significance of the fact of crowds of rivals gathering round General Burroughs, trying to outbid one another for his farms. While there are doubtless many grievances which the Highland crofters generally have a right to complain of, and which ought to be redressed, it can only do harm to fly in the face of facts and ignore the truth that two cannot live well on an area designed but for one.


1883 August 25 Orkney Herald

THREATENING GENERAL BURROUGHS. – A considerable amount of talk was occasioned in town last week by a report that became current that General Burroughs, C.B., of Rousay and Veira, had received some two or three threatening letters or post-cards. On Thursday the gunboat Firm, with Mr Thoms, Sheriff of the County; Mr Mellis, Sheriff Substitute; Mr Macrae, Procurator Fiscal; and Mr Grant, Superintendent of Police, on board, proceeded to Rousay – the gunboat being on the way to Shetland – with the view of making some enquiries. We understand that, from the handwriting and other circumstances, it was suspected that certain parties had had something to do with the matter, and some investigations were made at the school as to the copy books, and a young lad was examined regarding his handwriting. Another young man, at present engaged in the herring fishing at Stronsay, was suspected, and on Friday Mr Grant proceeded to the island and brought him to town. On Saturday he was brought up to the County Buildings, and was under examination before Sheriff Thoms for about a couple of hours, and after emitting a declaration was allowed his liberty. We understand that he denied all knowledge of the threatening letters, and that a considerable part of his examination was in reference to the land meetings held in Rousay. It is understood that the case will, in the ordinary course, be remitted to Crown Council, with whom it rests to decide whether there is sufficient cause shown whether the case should be proceeded with further. The general impression in town is that the whole affair is a practical joke, and that whatever Orkneymen may think regarding real or supposed grievances, they are not a law-breaking class, and that to resort to violence would never enter their thoughts.


1883 August 28 Aberdeen Journal

A FALSE ALARM. – The yacht Falcon, with Mr McDonald, town clerk of Inverness, and party on board, which has been cruising in Orkney during the past week, arrived at Rousay on the day fixed by some unknown desperado for the attack on General Burroughs, notice of which the general had received by letter. The good folks of Rousay watched the suspicious-looking yacht with considerable interest, not unmingled with apprehension, and the news that the attacking party had arrived soon spread. Mr McDonald relieved the islanders by the assurance that he had no such sanguinary intentions. He has had good sport in shooting and fishing.


1883 September 13 Dundee Advertiser

STRANGE ADVENTURE OF A HORSE. – A somewhat remarkable incident is reported from the island of Rousay, Orkney, where a restive horse broke loose recently, and ended his stampede by falling over a precipice 120 feet in height into the sea. The horse was supposed to have been killed, but on the day after the accident he was discovered about a quarter of mile from where he fell over, imprisoned in a geo or deeply-indented narrow bay in the cliffs. On the following day an extemporised crane was formed of smacks’ masts and cart wheels, and when the animal was hoisted safely up was found to be little the worse of his terrific fall and two days’ imprisonment, the only mark upon him being one or two slight scratches.


1883 September 21 Dundee Courier

THE CROFTERS COMMISSION. – The witnesses examined before the Crofters Commission, sitting at Kirkwall yesterday, were crofter tenants from General Burroughs’ property, the Island of Rousay, one of the few places where Lord Napier’s Commission considered rack-renting to exist, and the only place in Orkney where agitation has shown itself. The most interesting feature was the raising of rental, as shown in the first case, where rent prior to 1852 had been £6, and was then raised to £9. It was raised to £11 in 1871, and to £15 in 1879. No land had been added. One applicant had lived along with his father, who had the croft free from 1864 to 1881. He had arranged with the factor to do so, to keep his parents from being paupers. Mr Thomson drew attention to the fact that General Burroughs had made an arrangement with his tenants to pay all the poor rates if they paid the road rates. He considered it a good move. The Chairman – “Oh, yes; if he paid no rent, General Burroughs paid no rates for him.’ (Laughter) The rises of rent in some cases were 300 or 400 per cent. since 1859.


1883 September 22 Dundee Courier

RACK-RENTING IN ORKNEY. – The sittings of the Crofters’ Commission in Orkney have for the most part had very little interest for the general public. A good deal of the work performed was of a routine description, the evidence tendered being unrelieved by a solitary incident worthy of mention. On Thursday, however, a change “came o’er the spirit of the scene.” The dull reign of monotony was broken by a series of remarkable disclosures, and, compared with the common-place proceedings experienced on former days, the sitting might be described as highly sensational. The Island of which gained so unenviable a notoriety for its proprietor General Burroughs some five years ago was brought under the investigation of the Commission, and, as might have been expected from the antecedents of the estate management, the position of affairs is shown in discreditable, and, we are tempted to say, dishonourable acts of oppression. The General is one of those autocratic lords of the soil whose one rule of conduct is that they have a right to do what they like with their own. The land is his own, and the fact of his possession is ample justification of his actions. This doctrine would have prevailed once on a day. It dominated over men’s minds too long, but it is played out now, and the man who would dare to revive it must be either crack-brained or strangely ignorant of the change which has been wrought in public sentiment.

If General Burroughs is under the impression that tenants exist for no other purpose than to be squeezed to the uttermost farthing for the benefit of the landlord he must be speedily disabused of such a motion. Yet this is what the administration of the property discloses. An industrious tenant improves the land, and the penalty of a big rise of rent is ruthlessly exacted. A year or two passes, and the screw is again applied with merciless severity, this rack-renting on the tenant’s own improvements being carried on in such a systematic fashion as to show as the net result of this grasping policy in the course of thirty-four years an increase of about 200 per cent. of rent. On many holdings the rent was more than doubled in a few years’ time, and be it remembered that no change had been made on such crofts beyond the reclamation effected by the tenants themselves. Their privileges were rather curtailed instead of increased, all the witnesses on Thursday complaining of having been deprived of the hill grazing.

Upon one other matter a strange light was thrown. It appears that the General had entered into an arrangement with his tenants by which he should pay the whole poor rates and the tenants the whole road rates. Two cases were stated to the Commission as evidence of the sharp kind of practice by which the landlord contrived to keep himself clear of his part of the bargain. Nor does the tyrannical spirit manifested towards a tenant who had the temerity to give evidence before Lord Napier’s Commission help to shield General Burroughs’ from public opprobrium. It was surely an act of vindictive spite to evict a man immediately after building a new house because he had appeared to give his testimony against a bad landlord. The state of matters in Rousay and the high-handed doings of its martinet proprietor, supply the latest justification for the existence of the Crofter Commission, and will immensely strengthen the plea for immediate remedial legislation.


1883 September 24 Yorkshire Post & Leeds Intelligencer

THE CROFTERS COMMISSION. – The Crofters Commission resumed their sitting on Friday, and finished the cases on the Rousay estate. There are a number of crofters on this estate unable to apply to the Commission, being under leases. Nearly all the crofters in giving their evidence stated that they had been deprived of hill-grazing, one of them stating that hares and grouse were preserved in Rousay, and that although they had the Ground Game Act, their Swedish turnips had to be taken and put in pits, and their land was very much subject to grubs and finger-and-toe. In cross-examination the witness, who was 41 years of age, said that he never saw a hare killed in Rousay but once. Since the passing of the Ground Game Act no hares could be got except where they were preserved, which was on the largest part of the island. The witness also stated that on a harvest morning he had seen over 100 grouse on his stooks at one time, from which they received considerable damage. Before the court rose Mr. Robertson stated that General Burroughs had spent during the last twelve years £480 on the estate, and that the crofters did not suffer from sea-gust, there being no crofts in the exposed district and no burning from sand. It was one of the best islands in Orkney for fishing, and since 1840 he had spent £40,000 on his estate. Mr. Thompson, in reply, referred to the progressive rise in the rent, showing they had been quadrupled during General Burroughs’ proprietorship, and also to the numerous actions brought against his tenants. General Burroughs’ estate was the only one where such harshness had been used. Regarding the £40,000 spent on his estate, Mr. Thompson said it should be mentioned that there had been a mansion-house built, large steadings enclosing hills to keep out crofters, and perhaps rebatement of rents.


1883 October 20 Aberdeen Journal

Letters to The Editor

THE ROUSAY EVICTIONS.

Trumland, Rousay, 13th Oct., 1883.

SIR, – I observe in your paper of the 10th inst. a paragraph headed “Eviction of Rousay Crofters,” which proceeds to say that James Leonard and James Grieve have been warned out of their holdings. Neither James Leonard nor James Grieve are Rousay crofters. James Leonard’s father did up to his death, some months ago, hold from me a small farm named Digro, of about nine acres in extent, in the district of Sourin, Rousay. His son James, who is precentor of the Free Church here, never was my tenant, but he is anxious to be so; but after having poured out a string of complaints in very uncomplimentary language against me, as reported in detail in some four columns of a local newspaper, in which he and the Free Church minister in this parish combine in describing me as unchristian, inhuman, unrighteous, unjust, oppressive, &c., James Leonard says “he was always opposed to General Burroughs;” and would “oppose me till death;” that they had a local despotism which they wished removed; that “in every battle some had to fall; though he should fall in this battle he would fight it out;” and “a man’s a man for a’ that!” and other similar sentiments. As no business, whether of agriculture or of any other description, can prosper where such want of unanimity exists between those engaged in it, I decline to accept him as a tenant. And I do not think any other employer would employ anyone who threatened to be so troublesome. He is by trade a mason and a weaver, and he is a teacher of singing, and is not dependent upon farming for a livelihood. James Grieve, too, is not my tenant. He returned a few years ago from the colonies, boasting of having made money, and that he was looking out for a farm. He came to visit his brother, who is tenant of “Outerdykes,” in the district of Sourin, Rousay. He married a housemaid who had been some years in my house; and out of kindness to her, her husband was permitted to squat for a time on his brother’s farm to enable him to look out for a farm for himself. Years have passed, farms in various parts of this county have been advertised to be let, but James Grieve is still here. He joined the Free Church minister in his attack upon me, and said he agreed in his evil opinion of me; that my tenants were ”in a condition generally of great and increasing poverty;” that they were ground down and oppressed, and generally most miserable. I have no wish that any of my tenants should be miserable, and not being desirous of being a party to James Grieve’s misery, I decline to accept him as a tenant. I may add that when my wife and I left Rousay last winter, we left home and all around us in peace, happiness, goodwill, and contentment. We were on friendly terms with the Free Church minister, and had been so with his predecessor the Rev. N. P. Rose, who visited Rousay shortly before the arrival of the Crofter Commission. The only differences I ever had with the Free Church minister were differences of opinion on School Board matters. From James Leonard’s father I never had a complaint during the thirty years I knew him. He was a very respectable, peaceable man, and I had always been on the most friendly terms with him. From his son James, too, I never had a complaint, excepting in my position of chairman of the School Board, when he complained of inhumanity (a favourite expression of his) against a teacher. James Leonard called on me on the 29th September, and asked me whether I was in earnest in intending him not to have the farm of Digro. I said I was, and explained to him why. He said he had no ill-will against me; that he had been put up to it to appear against me, but that he did not mean it, and that he had been told that funds would not be wanting to oppose me. From James Grieve, too, I never before had a complaint, excepting that be objected to pay for fuel, and that he wanted a farm, and there was no farm vacant to suit him. My surprise, therefore, may be imagined at the torrent of invective that was so freely poured out upon me by the Free Church minister and his delegates before the Crofter Commission. On leaving home in my steam yacht on the morning of its sitting in Kirkwall, I passed the Free Church minister and his friends becalmed in a boat about a mile from Rousay. Seeing their difficulty, and that they might be too late for the meeting, I towed their boat some eight or nine miles into Kirkwall, which, had I suspected their spiteful attack upon me, I need hardly say I should not have done. Since I succeeded to this estate it has ever been my endeavour to do my duty by it, and to advance the well-being and prosperity of all on it. The measure of success that has attended my efforts is apparent to all who remember Rousay then and see it now. To those unacquainted with the locality, I may mention that when I first came to Orkney in 1848 there were no roads in Rousay, and consequently very few carts. Now there are some twenty miles of excellent roads, and every farmer has one or more carts, and many have gigs and other description of carriages. Then there was no regular post to the island, and no regular means of communication from the island to anywhere beyond it, or even to any place within it. Now there is a daily post to and from the island, and a daily post-runner around it. There was then no pier, and no public means of transit of goods to and from the county town. Now there is a pier, built at my own expense, and a steamer, of which I am the principal shareholder, plying regularly to and from Kirkwall, but which has not yet paid a dividend. Then the houses generally were very comfortless, few had any fireplace beyond a stone in the centre of the dwelling, with a hole in the roof above it. Now such an arrangement is hardly to be met with. Many new houses and steadings have been built by me at considerable expense, and to encourage comfort prizes are annually awarded to the cleanest, prettiest, and best kept cottages. Agriculture was then in a very primitive condition. Now as good crops of oats, bere, and turnips are to be seen here as anywhere in the kingdom; and the sheep and cattle will now bear favourable comparison with those of most counties. We have, too, our local agricultural society, with annual ploughing and hoeing matches and a cattle show. And we have our battery of Volunteer Artillery. In fact, the Rousay of to-day is a very different place to what it was 25 years ago, and how anybody can truthfully say that the condition of its inhabitants is one of “great and increasing poverty,” as stated by the Rev. A. McCallum, passes my comprehension. Since I retired from the active list of the army, my wife and I have made Rousay our home. We have built a new house, and laid out its grounds, and have given much employment to those around us, and she has been the prime mover in all affecting the happiness and welfare of the inhabitants of the island, many of whom have written to us, and most of those whom we have met since the visit of the Crofter Commission have voluntarily told us that they did not share in the movements or sentiments of my detractors. And I have received most kind and thoughtful letters of sympathy from hundreds of old soldiers of my old regiment – the 93rd Highlanders – from all parts of Scotland, telling me “that they are full of indignation and anger at the treatment you have received, for they cannot think that he whom they served so long, and who treated them on all occasions with so much kindness and liberality, could behave so differently to others.” My surprise, therefore, may be imagined at the torrent of invective poured out upon me by the Free Church minister and his friends. And my surprise was still greater at receiving an anonymous threatening letter, a few days after the meeting of the Crofter Commission in Kirkwall, threatening me with death should I ever remove a tenant from my estate. I have often been shot at before, and am not to be deterred from doing what I consider right by such a menace, which I can but regard as a new formula of the highwayman’s threat of old, now rendered as – “Your land or your life!” – I am, &c., F. BURROUGHS


1883 October 20 Aberdeen Journal

THE EVICTIONS IN ROUSAY. – A correspondent of the Orkney Herald writes:- We deeply regret to inform our readers that Lieutenant General Burroughs of Rousay has carried out the threats he uttered at the late meeting of the Royal Commission on crofters, by serving summons of “out warning” upon two of the crofters who then appeared as the chosen delegates of their fellow tenants. The public of Orkney and the country at large will thus be concerned and ashamed to know that in this nineteenth century, and in the boasted land of freedom, men dare not speak out what they think without being turned out of house and home. The evicted crofters are James Leonard, of Digro, and James Grieve, of Outerdykes – both of whom appeared as delegates at Kirkwall. In addition, Mr Leonard’s brother-in-law and sub-cottar is also, with his family, to be ejected. It will be remembered that it was James Leonard who requested from General Burroughs a promise that the delegates would not suffer for anything they might say – a promise which was refused, although pressed for by Lord Napier and Mr Cameron of Lochiel, “ruined Rousay” thus supplying the Commissioners with the spectacle of the only landlord in the country who refused to give the promise. It may also be remembered that it was James Grieve who corrected General Burroughs when he began exhibiting specimens of humanity to Lord Napier, and asked the inspector of poor to “stand up” and show himself as a fine specimen of a Rousay man – Grieve informing them that he was not a Rousay man at all. We would have supposed, however, that an officer of Her Majesty’s army would have afforded Her Majesty’s Commissioners every facility in “eliciting truth” (as their Chairman pointed out was their object) and a soldier should be the first to respect brave-minded men who were not afraid to speak it. The wife of James Grieve was the first servant in General Burroughs’ household after his marriage. The wife of James Leonard was known to be on the eve of a confinement. No considerations prevented their eviction. What fault have these men committed? None. They are men of not merely good but exemplary character, valued members of their church, and beloved among their fellow isle-men. One of them – Mr Leonard – is a Sabbath school teacher, and no teacher was ever more faithful in his work. They are neither of them one single farthing behind in their rent. They did, it is true, when Her Majesty’s Government send down Commissioners to inquire into the many and clamant grievances alleged against the land system, go forward to speak. They did so at the request of their fellow-tenants, and by their special appointment. For which of these things are they to suffer? For being honoured by their neighbours and made their chosen spokesmen? Or for the ready answer they gave to the call of Her Majesty the Queen and her Government? It is meanwhile pleasant to know that one of the evicted tenants – James Grieve, who was many years abroad, and never was a tenant under General Burroughs (being only an occupant of the part of a tenant’s house) – is possessed of some means which make him independent of that proprietor, and which would enable him to build a cottage in another part of Rousay on land over which General Burroughs has no control. In the case of Mr Leonard, however, it is different – a hard-working man with a large family, six of whom are still under school age. The loss of his croft and house is a very serious blow indeed to him and them.


1883 November 22 Edinburgh Evening News

EVICTION OF CROFTER DELEGATES IN ORKNEY. – James Leonard, one of the crofters evicted by the proprietor of Rousay Island on account of the hostile evidence he gave against General Burroughs at the meeting of the Royal Commission, has been compelled to leave Rousay with his family (five of whom are very young) and go to Kirkwall. James Grieve, another evicted delegate, who is still in the island, having got a house from a small neighbouring proprietor, has drawn up an appeal with the object of raising a sum of money to present to Leonard, to compensate him for the serious loss and hardships caused by him being ejected from the Digro croft. The lands were reclaimed by his father from the ancient commons of Rousay, and Leonard has occupied and improved them himself for about 20 years, having also built the croft-house entirely at his own cost or by the labour of his own hands. The Rev. Archibald McCallum, Free Church minister of Rousay, has given his consent to act as treasurer on the fund, which has already received considerable support.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1872 – 1882

1872 January 04 Dundee Courier & Argus

LARGE CAPTURE OF WHALES IN ORKNEY. – The John o’ Groat Journal says – There has been an immense capture of whales in Orkney. There has been a great and successful whale chase in Holm Sound and Scapa Flow. On Tuesday 25 boats succeeded in capturing about 70 fish; and next day 35 boats captured from 120 to 130, all landed in the island of Burray. A postscript says – “I learn this morning that there are altogether upwards of 303 whales landed.”


1872 February 27 Morning Advertiser

SHIPPING INTELLIGENCE – KIRKWALL – February 24. – A bottle containing the following has been picked up to-day: – “12th Dec., ship Flora, bound for America, total wreck, waterlogged; no prospect of relief; provisions one day only. – P. Macguire, Commander.”


1872 March 18 Shipping & Mercantile Gazette

SAILORS IN THE NORTH. – At this season there annually arrive at Granton, by the Aberdeen, Leith, and Clyde Company’s steamers, several hundred of Sailors from the Orkney and Shetland Islands to join the numerous ships, especially the Quebec traders, which are fitted out at the beginning of spring. On Thursday afternoon the first party of the season, numbering about 30, arrived in the steamer St. Clair, and at once proceeded by train for ports where ships are preparing for sea. All over Orkney and Shetland large numbers of Seamen are preparing to leave their homes for the seaports. The next steamer which arrives at Granton from the north is expected to have from 100 to 200 of these Sailors on board. In this manner they obtain constant employment about eight months in the year. The rate of wages to North America is always higher than to other countries, the work being considered more laborious; but more money is made by these men while at sea than is usually earned by the Sailors trading to foreign ports all the year round. A large portion of the male population of Shetland, although not professional Sailors, also go annually to the whale and seal fishing, as many as from 30 to 40 being taken in one vessel. Special provision has been made by the Board of Trade for the shipping, discharging, and paying of these men, and also to insure that they are landed after the voyage as near their homes as practicable.


1872 March 20 Preston Herald

SHIPPING DISASTERS….. FOUNDERING OF A DUNDEE VESSEL AND LOSS OF A BOAT’S CREW. – The following particulars of the disastrous wreck of a Dundee vessel in the North Sea have been received by telegraph from a Kirkwall correspondent: – “The vessel Isabella, of Dundee, sank eighty miles off Montrose on Monday last. The crew took to the boats, and one boat, containing the captain and four men, came ashore at Rousholm-head, on the island of Stronsay, on Thursday night. The men had been without food since Monday. Three succeeded in reaching the neighbouring farm-houses, but two sank exhausted on the hills, but were searched for and carried to a house, where they were attended to. The mail had not brought the names of the survivors to Kirkwall last night. No trace of the missing boat has been obtained.”


1872 October 17 John o’ Groat Journal

ROUSAY – MIRACULOUS ESCAPE OF TWO BOYS. – On Thursday evening, the 3rd inst., two boys left home with the intention of fishing for sillocks off shore on the east side of Rousay. They were to be accompanied by a neighbour, who, however, did not go with them. The boys, about twelve years of age, managed to get a small boat, about eight feet of keel, which they launched, and a short distance from shore dropped anchor, and began fish. No fears were entertained for their safety (as it was supposed a competent person was along with them), until the usual time passed by without their return. The parents becoming alarmed ran to the shore, about a mile from their dwelling, in the hope of finding they had landed, but, to their unspeakable horror, neither boys nor boat were to be seen. It was now about 10 p.m., and the wind was blowing fearfully. They concluded therefore that the boat had been driven out to sea. The neighbours were apprised, and an effort made to raise a crew, but before a sufficient number had been collected the storm became so severe that the boldest seaman considered that a boat could not sit on the water. All hope of the safety of the boys was nearly given up. There was, however, a faint possibility that they had been blown on to the adjoining island of Egilshay; but as there was a roost to cross, this hope was almost abandoned. It was now about one o’clock a.m., and the fury of the tempest was most dreadful. The men stood there ready to push off, but it was thought impossible a boat could live. At length, however, six noble-hearted fellows, whose names are worthy to be mentioned – Messrs George and William Reid, Wasdale; Malcolm Leonard, Gripps; James Grieve, Outerdykes; James Inkster, Quoys; and Alexander Grieve, Lowermill – at the risk of their lives, manned the skiff ‘Flying Mist,’ and put off, the sea at the time drifting like snow around them. Manfully, however, did they pull, cheering one another as they went. Before leaving it was arranged that if they reached the opposite island two fires would be lighted if they found the boys, and if not, only one. All eyes were now strained for the life or death sign. To the unspeakable joy of all present the life sign appeared. Word was immediately despatched to the parents, who knew nothing about this arrangement, that their boys were alive. So overwhelmed were they with the unexpected news that they wept aloud, and gave thanks to God for his merciful preservation of their loved ones; and well they might, for when the dangers through which they passed is known, no one can fail to see the hand of Providence in plainly guiding their tiny craft, as if it had been seen with the natural eye. About dark the boys tried to pull in their stone and make for the shore, but somehow or other, one of their oars slipped from them and could not be reached, they again dropped their anchor, thinking it might hold on as before, but the water was now deeper, the wind blowing stronger. Away they drifted, no one to counsel them, and they did not know what to do. They both sat down and cried with fear. In this manner they were driven by the storm and dragged by opposite tides first one way and then another for upwards of six hours, dragging their anchor all the time, which from cold and fear they were unable to take in, and on this, doubtless, their preservation depended, for had the stone been got in in all probability, the boat would have capsized. Again, if it had been ebb tide, they were certain to have been carried out of the Firth. When more than half way across the sound, on a shallow bank, their anchor took hold unknown to the boys, who still thought in the darkness, they were drifting along, and long did they sit expecting to come to land, but no land appeared, the sea was not fast filling their little boat. In this precarious condition, they both lay down and cried to God to save them, and he did save them, for it came into the mind of one of the boys, the other being in a kind of deep sleep, to cut the rope, which he did, and in a few minutes they were driven on the shore, where, had they come an hour before, they must have perished; but the dangerous reef was flown over so that they got nearer to the shore and through the breakers managed to crawl up the banks scarcely able to walk to the nearest house, viz., that of Mr John Mackinlay, merchant, where every attention was paid to their necessities until next day, when they were taken over to Rousay.


1874  January 17 The Scotsman

FISHCURERS. – In consequence of the deaths of Messrs Jamieson & Methuen, fishcurers of herring are wanted for the Station of Stronsay, Orkney. Number of boats disengaged about 60. For further particulars apply to Mr William Stevenson, Hurtiso, Rousay, Orkney.


1875 February 13 Dundee Courier & Argus

FATAL FALL. – James Sinclair Corsie, a man of forty-two years of age, who for about twenty years has been resident in Australia and New Zealand, and who returned about two years ago with a moderate competency, and married, met with an accident last week at Kirkwall which resulted in death. He arrived in Kirkwall from Rousay, and having transacted his business, went on board a vessel which lay between him and the Rousay packet to return. In making his way to the packet he fell on his stomach on the gunwale of the vessel: He was then conveyed back to the town, and died on Tuesday morning from the injuries he had sustained.

[James was the son of Malcolm Corsie, Nears, and Isabella Louttit, Skaill, Westside. On November 20th 1873 he married Mary Marwick Low, Quoyjenny, above Hunclett. Mary was pregnant at the time of James’ death; their son, named after the father he never knew, being born six months later. Unfortunately his life was to be cut short too, for he drowned in the North Sea when just 24 years of age]


1875 July 28 Aberdeen Press & Journal

ORKNEY. Desirable Sheep Farm and Residence to Let, For Nineteen Years from Martinmas, 1876. – The Farm of Westness, in the Island of Rousay, which is at present in the natural occupation of the Proprietor. As now laid off it extends to about 2800 Acres of which 220 Acres, or thereby, are arable, 1000 Acres, or thereby, low ground pasture, mostly enclosed with stone dykes, and the remainder hill pasture.

The Sheep Run is considered one of the best the north of Scotland, and is admirably suited for cheviots and half-breds. The Arable Lands are also very superior, and besides affording an ample supply of spring food for the live stock, yield a considerable surplus of grain, hay, and potatoes for the market. The Farm House and Farm Steading are in good order, and contain ample accommodation.

The whole Stock and Crop on the Farm at Martinmas, 1876, may be had at valuation.

The Mansion House of Westness will be also Let with the Farm, if desired. It contains Dining-Room, Drawing-room, Business-Room, Gun-Room, Six Bed-Rooms, Dressing-Room, Four Servants’ Bed-Rooms, Servants’ Hall, Kitchen. Pantry, Laundry, Wash-House, and other conveniences. The Grounds extend to about 9 Acres, and are enclosed and subdivided into Gardens, Lawn, and Plantations. They extend to the sea where there is good anchorage. The Gardens contain a Green-House and Vinery.

If not let with the Farm, the Mansion House and Grounds will be Let separately, either furnished or unfurnished, for such number of years may be agreed on. The sole right of Trout Fishing (with the reservation of two rods for the Proprietor) on two lakes on the Farm, covering a superficial area of 170 Acres or thereby, and the Shootings on the low grounds of Westness, will also be Let with the house, if desired.

For further particulars apply to Mr Robert Walker, Altyre Estates Offices, Forres; or to Mr John Macrae, Solicitor, Kirkwall – the latter of whom will receive offers for the Farm and Mansion House, or for either, up to the 30th day of September next. The Proprietor does not bind himself to accept the highest or any offer.


1875 September 1 Edinburgh Evening News

THREE PERSONS DROWNED IN ORKNEY. – On Thursday forenoon, Robert Gibson, Langskaill, Rousay, accompanied by his son [David] (a boy of eight), and a servant on the farm, named Robert Inkster, left Rousay in a large undecked boat, with the object on conveying home his father, who had arrived the previous day by the steamer at Kirkwall. The weather was fine, and there was a moderate westerly breeze blowing. While the boat was off Quanterness Skerry a sudden hurricane of wind and rain came on, which lasted about three minutes, during which the boat was lost. There can be no doubt she was struck by the squall and went down. The oars and two caps came ashore at Shapinsay. Robert Gibson has left a widow and four children. The man-servant was unmarried.


1875 September 25 The Scotsman

KIRKWALL – BODY WASHED ASHORE. – On Wednesday afternoon the body of Robert Inkster, farm servant, who about three weeks ago left the island of Rousay in a large yawl boat along with Robert Gibson and a boy of eight, son and grandson of the tenant of the farm of Langskaill, and perished in a squall near the entrance to Kirkwall Bay, was washed ashore about a quarter of a mile from the harbour.


1875 October 18 The Scotsman

TEACHER (CERTIFICATED MALE) Wanted for Wasbister Public School, Rousay,
Orkney. Salary, £100 (inclusive of sewing), with Dwelling-House and Garden.
Music a recommendation. Applications, with testimonials, to be lodged with
Rev. Mr Rose, Clerk of School Board, Rousay, Orkney.


1876 February 12 The Scotsman

ORKNEY
TO LET, FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED,

For such period as may be agreed upon, from 1st June,

WESTNESS HOUSE, in the Island of Rousay, Orkney, as presently occupied by the
Proprietor. The House contains Seventeen Rooms, besides Closets, Laundry,
Wash-House, Kitchen and Offices; Coach-House, Dog Kennels, Vinery,
Kitchen, and Flower Garden extending to the Sea, where there is
good Summer Anchorage for Yachts. Good Trout and
Deep-Sea Fishing, Rabbit Shooting, &c.
Arrangements may also be made for Grouse Shooting over about 5000 acres.
Daily Postal communication with the South.

For particulars apply to John Bryce, Esq., 131 George Street, Edinburgh;
or to John MacRae, Esq., S.S.C., Kirkwall.


1877 April 4 Aberdeen Press & Journal

KIRKWALL. – New Orkney Steam Shipping Company. – On Tuesday the prospectus was issued of “The Rousay, Evie, and Rendall Steam Navigation Company (Limited).” The capital necessary for the working of the Company is set down at £3000, in 3000 shares of £1 each. The aim of the promoters is stated to be to secure daily steam communication by sea between the parishes of Rousay and Egilshay, Evie and Rendall, and Kirkwall. This is necessary in consequence of the greatly increased traffic between these parishes, the present sailing packets not being able to cope with it. The estimated cost of working a steamer sufficient for the requirements of the traffic is stated at £600 per annum. In the list of Provisional Committee are the names of Colonel Burroughs, Mr Laing, M.P., and the leading gentlemen in the district. Should the promoters succeed in obtaining the necessary capital and place a steamer on the passage, all the north isles of any consequence, with the exception of North Ronaldshay, will have the benefit of daily and twice a-week communication with Kirkwall.


1877 June 9 Edinburgh Evening News

ACTION FOR SLANDER AGAINST A MINISTER. – An action for slander against an Orkney minister was called in the Court of Session yesterday. The pursuer is James Wilson Reid, B.A. and M.S. University of Glasgow, and medical practitioner in the parish of Evie, Orkney, and the defender, from whom he seeks to recover £2000, is the Rev. Alexander Leslie, M.A., minister of the united parishes of Evie, Rendall and Orkney. In July, 1874, the pursuer was appointed medical officer for the parish of Rousay and Egilshay, and on the 3rd of that month defender, who is chairman of the parochial board in his own parish, wrote to him to say that he had resolved to recommend pursuer’s appointment for the parishes of Evie and Rendall. At the same time defender informed him of the emoluments of the office, and stated that Colonel Balfour of Balfour had promised a small farm of about ten acres arable at an easy rent, and that a house was in course of erection. Some misunderstanding having arisen, pursuer wrote to Colonel Balfour on the subject in the month of September, 1875, and he got a reply that the colonel had no recollection of having made such a promise, and that he was not the owner of a farm of ten acres in the neighbourhood. This came to the ears of the defender, who is alleged to have said that he would soon make it as hot for pursuer as he had done for Dr Jeffries, the previous practitioner. Since then pursuer says defender has entertained feelings of malice and ill-will towards pursuer, and has endeavoured to destroy his character and professional prospects. In November of 1875, pursuer received intimation from the Parochial Board of Evie and Rendall, dispensing with his services as medical officer, and another gentleman was shortly afterwards appointed in his place. This, however, did not interfere with pursuer’s appointment in the parish of Rousay and Egilshay. A petition was sent from Evie to the inhabitants of Rousay soliciting them to discharge pursuer from his office; but this solicitation was ineffectual, as the inhabitants would have nothing to do with the petition. Pursuer avers that these proceedings were at the instigation of the defender, who was actuated by malevolent feelings towards him. He further alleges that in May of last year defender informed Colonel Burroughs, C.B., chairman of the Parochial Board of Rousay that pursuer was leaving, and asking that the new medical officer for Evie should also be appointed to Rousay and Egilshay. It is further alleged that in order, if possible, to accomplish his purpose of having the pursuer removed from the parish, the defender in March, 1877, called upon David Chalmers, factor for the house in which the pursuer resided, and stated to him that he had no credit in allowing the pursuer to remain in his house, that he was a man of no religion, and that unless he was put out of the house it would go ill with Chalmers and the landlord. The result of this was that a petition was presented to the Sheriff for the removal of the pursuer from his house, and a warrant of ejectment has been obtained against him. The pursuer avers that in May, 1877, the defender falsely, calumniously, and maliciously stated to Colonel Burroughs’ wife and several others that the pursuer was a great drunkard and a most immoral man, that he had about the latter end of 1876 been found drunk in a ditch in the snow, and that unless assistance had been procured for him he would have been dead before the morning. He avers that the whole of these statements were false and calumnious, and he has consequently been compelled to institute the present action in order to vindicate his character, and put an end to these persecutions, as well as to obtain compensation for the serious loss, injury, and damage which he has sustained. Defences are not yet due.

[The Scotsman newspaper went on to report that…’on the same day the defender made false and malicious statements to various parties, to the effect that the Doctor had induced abortion, resulting in the death of a [Birsay] woman, and had buried, or been privy to burying, the child at midnight; and that he was a murderer, and ought to be hanged.- Unfortunately there is no record of the outcome of this case!]


1878 August 10 Aberdeen Press & Journal

BATHING ACCIDENT. – At Rousay, Orkney, Thomas Shearer, a farm servant at Saviskaill, lost his life on Monday. It appears that shortly after the people in the district left their homes for church, Shearer, accompanied by a boy, went down to the Bay of Saviskaill to bathe. He could not swim, and having gone beyond his depth he was unable to reach the shore. His companion ran home for a fishing rod in order to assist him, but on his return the unfortunate lad was unable to avail himself of any assistance. A boat was then procured, but when Shearer was taken from the water it was found that life was extinct.


1879 April 5 Shetland Times

LAUNCH OF THE LIZZIE BURROWS. – Last week there was launched from the building yards of Messrs J. McKenzie & Co., Albert Dock, Leith, a fine smart packet, intended for the coasting trade between Rousay and Kirkwall. Her length is 65 feet; beam, 15 feet; depth, 6 feet; and she is to be fitted with a large hold forward, and a cabin abaft for passengers. As she glided into the water she was named the “Lizzie Burrows” by Mrs George McKenzie, in honour the wife of Colonel Burrows, the chairman of the Company, to whose order she has been built. She is a sister ship the “Sefton” launched the same firm last June, and she will be fitted out with her engines and other gear on the most improved principles by Mr M. P. Galloway, marine engineer, Leith. We may mention that the whole arrangements of the launch were very efficiently carried out, and it is very creditable to the firm – taking into consideration the position of the building yard – that the vessel was got into the water without a single hitch or the slightest damage.


1879 May 8 John o’ Groat Journal

ROUSAY, ORKNEY. – One of the candidates for a seat in the School Board having retired there was poll. The members elected are Colonel Burroughs; Rev. Mr Gardiner, E.C.; Rev. Mr Allardice, U.P. ; Mr Sinclair, and Mr Seatter.

The weather daring the greater part of last week was very cold and boisterous, the wind blowing from E.S.E. with unabating energy. The farmers are busily engaged getting down their grain, and considerable improvements are being carried out at the home farm of Trumland, and elsewhere on the estate, under the directions of Mr Murrison, factor.

A few of the volunteers had some carbine ball practice at the Avalshay range the other day, the distances being 200 and 300 yards. There was a strong breeze blowing across the range, yet very fair scores were made.

Thanks to the promoters of steam communication between this place and Kirkwall – and we wish them every success – the sailing packets have now become a thing of the past, for instead of being drifted about at the mercy of the wind and tide, or becalmed as the case might be, we can now proceed to Kirkwall and back the same day, besides calling at several of the neighbouring Islands. The handsome little screw steamer “Lizzie Burroughs” has comfortable cabin accommodation, and is otherwise fitted with the necessary requirements for the conveyance of cattle and goods.

A Meeting of the Rousay Temperance Society was held in the pariah school house on Friday evening, 25th ult. There was a poor attendance, the chief reason assigned being the inclemency of the weather. This Society has not been long started, and we trust the Rousay folks will come out and give it their support. There is very little drunkenness, however, and it is most gratifying to know that there is no single licensed spirit dealer the island.


1879 May 29 John o’ Groat Journal

ROUSAY, ORKNEY. WEATHER. – Winter has gone – at least we hope so – and summer has made its appearance without any spring. We had a beautiful summer day on 20th inst, and since then it has on the whole been mild. The braird is progressing well, but is nevertheless backward.

VOLUNTEERS. – 9th O.A.V. – The above corps turned out under their commanding officer (Colonel Frederick William Traill Burroughs, C.B.) on Saturday, 24th inst., in honour of Her Majesty’s birthday. The weather was very wet, and although preparation was made to fire a feu-de-joie, it had to be dispensed with on that account. However, a formation was made, and three right hearty cheers were given for Her Majesty. The commanding officer (who always has, and continues to evince warm interest in the maintenance, well being, and discipline of the corps) made a few kind and encouraging remarks to the officers and men in his usual candid manner, after which the parade was dismissed and entertained to refreshments.

THE return match among the four members of the above corps who competed last week, came off at Rousay rifle range, on Friday, 23rd inst. Bombardier W. Craigie and Gunner A. Munro were again victorious, beating their opponents by 15 points. The conditions were as on the previous occasion, 5 rounds each, at 200 and 300 yards, regulation position and marking. The weather was very unfavourable, a strong breeze blowing from the right front, in consequence which the scoring was not so high as in the previous match. Corporal Logie and Gunner Geddes are not yet satisfied, and they have challenged their opponents to another match, which is to come off at no distant date.

THE Sacrament of the Lord’s supper was dispensed in the U.P. Church on Sabbath, the 25th inst., when the Rev. Mr Allardice was assisted by the Rev. Mr Webster, Kirkwall.


1879 May 31. The Field, The Country Gentleman’s Newspaper

Notes and Queries on Angling – Rousay, Orkney. – In the “little water” (loch), Mr Robert M. Murrison, keeper (to Colonel Burroughs, C.B., of Rousay and Veira), succeeded in securing a basket of forty-two fine trout on Friday, 23rd instant, in a few hours. The weather is charming here. – M.


1879 June 5 John o’ Groat Journal

ROUSAY. VOLUNTEERS. – 9th O.A.V. – The quarterly silver medal was fired for with carbines on Tuesday, 27th ult., on the Rousay rifle range, and won by Corporal William Logie, with score of 30 points. The weather was not the best that could be desired for shooting. There were not so many turned out to compete as was anticipated. Col. F. W. T. Burroughs, C.B., was present during the match, and took evident interest in it. The medal has to be won by any individual member three times in succession before it becomes his property. The conditions were 5 rounds each at 200 and 300 yards.

CORPORAL William Logie and Gunner J. Geddes have lost their third match in succession with Bombardier W. S. Craigie and Gunner A. Munro. The 1st match was lost by 10, the 2nd by 15, and the 3rd (which was very close match throughout) by 2 points only. The conditions were as on the previous occasions.

WEATHER. – Changeable weather has characterised the past week. Rain fell frequently in soft showers, and the atmosphere was generally dull, with a low temperature.


1879 July 3 John o’ Groat Journal

VOLUNTEERS – 9th O.V.A. – Sergeant Instructor John West, R.A., on the occasion of his completing 21 years’ service on Tuesday, 17th inst., and also for the purpose of encouraging good shooting, gave three handsome prizes in money to be competed for by members of the above corps. The conditions were 5 rounds at 200 and 300 yards with carbines. The weather was most delightful, and a good number turned out to compete. Shooting commenced at 6 p.m., and was carried on with great zest. At the finish the whole adjourned to Sergeant West’s house, where the prizes were presented to the successful competitors by Mrs West. She had prepared a sumptuous repast, and they all sat down and enjoyed themselves to their heart’s content. Toasts were given, and responded to most enthusiastically, for the following, viz.: – The Queen; Army, Navy, and Marine Forces; Colonel Burroughs, C.B.; Mrs Burroughs; Capt Murrison and other officers of the corps; Sergeant West, and last of all Mrs West, which completely brought down the house. It is but fair to state that during the time Sergeant and Mrs West have been stationed here, they have, by their kind, affable, and obliging manner, won the hearts of all with whom they have come in contact. Sergeant West holds the medal for “long service and good conduct.” Appended are the names of the prize winners: – 1st, Gunner A. Craigie; 2nd, Bombardier J. Leonard; 3rd, Sergeant W. Stevenson.


1879 August 7 John o’ Groat Journal

ROUSAY, ORKNEY. HOEING MATCH, &c. – Colonel Burroughs, C.B., of Rousay and Veira, gave six handsome prizes to be competed for on Tuesday, 22nd instant. The match was open to all employed on the home farm. All the skilled hands put in appearance, and the work was so closely contested that the judges (Messrs Murrison and Manson) found considerable difficulty in adjudging the prizes. The decision come to gave entire satisfaction and was as follows, viz.: – 1st prize, Hugh Cormack; 2nd, Jane Grieve; 3rd, Annie Louttit; 4th, James Marwick; 5th, Jane Johnstone ; 6th, Mary Marwick. A prize was also given to Mina Logie who was the youngest hand on the field.

COLONEL BURROUGHS has made vast improvements on his estate during the last few years at considerable expense. What was lately nothing but barren heath, growing crops of hay, corn, turnips, &c., may now be seen that are very rarely met within these latitudes. The new mansion (Trumland), of handsome design and elegantly furnished and fitted up in the newest style, was erected a few years since at great cost. It has beautifully laid out lawns all round, and Mrs Burroughs (a most amiable lady) who is no mean botanist, and horticulturist, may be seen daily amongst her flower beds and young trees. A great number of the last mentioned were planted last spring, as well as in previous years, and appear to be growing wonderfully, considering that they are rather devoid of shelter. It would be good for the majority of the proprietors in the north to take a lesson in agriculture from our worthy veteran, and do more for improving their estates, although it should only be for encouraging, and showing good example to their tenantry. It is worthy of comment, with regard to Colonel and Mrs Burroughs, that it could hardly be possible to find a lady and gentleman that are more popular or more highly respected by all their tenantry.

ANGLING. – Colonel Burroughs and Mr Melville fished over Saviskaill loch on Thursday, 24th instant, and obtained first-rate sport, returning in the evening to Trumland with baskets full of beautiful trout. The sport obtained on the Rousay waters was never better than it has been this season, and the fish are all in capital condition.


1879 October 30 John o’ Groat Journal

WANTED
AN EXPERIENCED DAIRY MAID for the FARM of TRUMLAND in ROUSAY,
ORKNEY, at Martinmas first. Apply to Mr MURRISON, Viera Lodge, Rousay.

WANTED
AN EXPERIENCED MEAL MILLER for the ROUSAY MILLS in ORKNEY.
Apply to Mr MURRISON, Viera Lodge, Rousay, Orkney.


1879 December 6 Bucks Herald

Mr Munro, road contractor, Rousay, has captured a very fine eagle alive at the shore at Faraclett Farm, Rousay, Orkney.


1880 May 13 John o’ Groat Journal

WELCOME TO MAJOR-GENERAL F. W. T. BURROUGHS, C.B., AND MRS BURROUGHS. – On it coming to the ears of the tenantry and others on the estates of Rousay and Viera that their much-respected proprietor had attained the rank Major-General, they with one accord decided on giving him and his amiable lady a hearty welcome to their chateau in Rousay. Accordingly, the 8th-1st Orkney Artillery Volunteers turned out in review order (without arms) under Captain Murrison, to receive the General on his arrival. Together with the whole of the tenantry, they assembled at Trumland pier, the volunteers lining each side facing inwards. On the boat from the General’s yacht “Sylphide” arriving within about 100 yards of the landing place, the ecstasy prevailing in all hearts on shore gave vent to itself in an outburst of cheers. Captain Murrison met them on landing, immediately after which three more hearty cheers were given for General and Mrs Burroughs. An address had been drawn up which Captain Murrison then read amidst breathless silence. The General briefly replied and invited all present to Trumland House to have a refreshment.

On the family carriage (containing General and Mrs Burroughs) reaching the gate opening to the “approach,” it was stopped by the crowd, the horses unyoked, and was then drawn at rattling pace up to the door, a distance of 300 or 400 yards. Here all the people entered, and were treated with “the necessaries of life” to their heart’s content, after which “each took aff their separate way” rejoicing, one saying to another, “Man dinna they luik weeI,” &c. The General shook hands (warmly) with each as they passed out. A temporary arch was erected over the entrance gate, which was beautifully decorated with evergreens and the word “welcome,’’ and bunting were displayed the pier and mansion. The following is the address:-

“Major-General Burroughs, – We, the representatives of the 8th-lst Orkney Artillery Volunteers and others, tenants on your estates of Rousay and Viera, have this day assembled to welcome you, and your esteemed lady on your return to your island home, and to congratulate you on your recent promotion to the rank of Major-General, a promotion well deserved and nobly earned by gallant deeds on many a hard-fought field.

“It only remains for us who know your real worth and appreciate your goodness of heart, and have had experience of the true nobility of disposition which prompts your every action – it only remains for us to wish that you and your worthy lady, who by her many acts of kindness has endeared herself to every heart, may long live to enjoy the honours earned, and therefore conferred by a grateful country; and that when the time comes when all earthly honours must be laid aside, may He who was your stay and support through all your campaigns, and still is the captain of your salvation, bestow upon you the crown of life which He has promised to those who fight the good fight of faith.

“God bless the gallant General
And bless his lady fair;
Their persons bless, their estates bless,
With blessings rich and rare.
“May health be theirs, may wealth be theirs,
May sorrows never come;
And long may they be spared to live
In Trumland house their home.”


1880 May 25 Orkney Herald

SINGULAR LOSS AND RECOVERY OF £83. – On Wednesday last, when the steamer Lizzie Burroughs was leaving the moorings at Sourin, Rousay, Capt. Reid had occasion to lean over the bulwarks, when an envelope containing £83 and some silver coin dropped out of his pocket into the sea. It is customary for the captain of this and other packets to convey large sums of money to town. In the present case the money had been handed to Capt. Reid by Mr. Thomas B. Reid, Clerk to the Rousay School Board, for the purpose of being lodged in one of the banks in town. On falling into the water the envelope floated for a few moments, but sank just as a boat approached. Capt. Reid sent the steamer to town in charge of the mate, and proceeded himself to the Clerk of the School Board, and informed him of the loss, when it was decided to proceed to Kirkwall by a boat and endeavour to secure the services of a diver. Mr Calder, one of the divers who has been engaged at the pier, at once proceeded to Rousay, and descended at the place where the money was lost, the depth of water being about four fathoms. He had only been down a minute or two when he discovered the envelope lying on the bottom. Short as the time was that the money had been in the water, a large shell-fish known as a “buckie” had taken up its abode on the top of the envelope, thus effectually anchoring it to the spot. It is fortunate that there is not any strength of tide at this place. Had the loss occurred where the current is swift the cash would probably never have been seen again.


1880 September 2 John o’ Groat Journal

MOORS. – The sport at Rousay, Orkney, continues excellent. General Burroughs, C.B., Captain Papillon, 92nd Gordon Highlanders, went out about mid-day on the 20th August, and had 30½ brace grouse, 3 snipe, and 3 hares. On the 22nd, the same party went snipe shooting on the island of Veira, and in about two hours secured 11 couple snipe and 3 plovers. The weather continues quite charming.


1880 October 23 Aberdeen Free Press

DISCOVERY OF ANCIENT REMAINS IN ROUSAY. – Some interesting researches, which may prove of considerable antiquarian importance, have just been made on the farm of Corquoy, in the valley of Sourin, island of Rousay, of which General Burroughs, C.B. is proprietor. Immediately above the farm-house a group of mounds is situated, locally known as “Manzie’s” mounds – a corruption of Magnus – and supposed to mark the site of an ancient burial-place. These are five in number, the largest being irregularly surrounded by four smaller. On carefully trenching the mounds, each was found to contain a stone burial-place, consisting, in every case, of a top and bottom stone with four side stones, the whole neatly cemented with tempered red clay, probably from the Sourin burn. The stones, which were of a flat but massive description, were partly naturally plane on the edge and partly roughly chipped into form, possibly with some stone implement. The fresh appearance of the stones and workmanship was especially noticeable, and the firmly set masonry was further strengthened by irregular blocks placed as to support the superincumbent weight. The measurement of the largest mound, which was most interesting, and with the internal details of which the others closely correspond, was – outside circumference, 50 feet, and top 5½ feet from surrounding level; inside burial place 2½ feet by 2 feet, and ½ foot depth. The centre of the cavity was almost filled with what seemed to be clay, mixed with very minute fragments of bone, and the action of fire was clearly visible on the stones, as well on some calcined substance – probably pest. Imbedded in this clay an oval vessel was found, heaped also with similar fragments of bones, &c., and resting, mouth upwards, lengthwise north and south. The material of the vessel is uncertain. It has a somewhat metallic appearance, interspersed with glittering points on a dark, iron-coloured ground. It is of oval shape at the rim, round which there is a kind of plain moulding; from this moulding it assumes a dome-like shape, flattening into an oval base, on which it was found resting. The vessel measures – diameter of mouth, 9¾ by 8 inches; height to top or base, 7¼ inches; diameter of base, 4½ by 3¾ inches; thickness irregular, but averaging quarter of an inch. Various cracks are visible throughout, but the only part defective is the base, of which about one-third is wanting. Weight about 3lbs. The most careful scrutiny failed to detect any further remains in this mound, nor was anything noteworthy found in the others. Two of the other mounds contained burial places rather squarer in form than the above. The smallest one measured only 12 by 6 inches, and no cement seemed to have been used in its construction. Arrangements are being made for placing the vessel or urn in the Antiquarian Museum, Edinburgh, when competent judges may able fix the date of the mounds or the race to which the remains belong.


1880 November 10 The Scotsman

THE ORKNEY FISHERIES INQUIRY. – In the beginning of November Mr Young, in continuance of the inquiry previous to constituting the Orkneys into a fishery district, inspected the Muckle and Peerie lochs on the Island of Rousay, the loch of Saviskaill, and the Saviskaill burn and Sourin water. The Muckle and Peerie lochs cover about 170 acres, and are connected with the sea by the Sourin water, which has a course of 2½ miles. The trout in both these lakes are numerous and excellent, but there are certain obstacles in the course of the burn which at present almost entirely prevent the ascent of sea trout. These, however, are in the course of being remedied, and there is every reason to believe that sea trout will soon have easy access to these two fine sheets of water. Near the manse the stream runs over a bed of slate, and there is a fall which requires some manipulation in order to enable fish to ascend it easily. Loch Saviskaill is on the north side of the island of Rousay, and is famous for the number and excellence of its trout. It covers between 50 and 60 acres. Recent improvements made and about to be made by General Burroughs on the short stream that connects it with the sea will probably enable sea trout to ascend to it in the course of next fishing season. At present, at the mill close to its mouth, the greater part of the water joins the sea through the lade, while only a small stream trickles over the beach from the burn. The consequence is, that any sea-trout seeking to ascend would naturally take the lade instead of the burn, and would probably be killed by the mill-wheel. The proper remedy is to divert the water from the lade into the burn after it has passed by the wheel, and so let the whole water run into the sea through its natural channel.

Rousay is the highest and most picturesque of the northern group of the Orkney Islands. It is about eighteen miles in circumference. On the south there is a hill 811 feet in height – about the height of Arthur’s Seat; on the north another hill somewhat lower, and between the two the sheltered valley in which are the Muckle and Peerie lochs and the Sourin burn. Rousay is separated from the mainland of Orkney by a winding sound two miles in width, in which lies the little island of Eynhallow, from the Norse Eyinhalga, or Holy Island, once a chosen retreat of the Culdee fathers, but now uninhabited. Lead ore, containing 80 per cent. of lead, has been found on Rousay, and copper ore, containing 5 per cent. of copper. Iron ore, paving slate, and shale also occur. Round the house of Westness, said to be built on the site of the dwelling of the famous viking Sigurd, there is a fine grove of trees and a vinery, and fuchsias and veronica bushes flourish luxuriantly. Rousay and the adjoining island of Veira both belong to General Burroughs, who has initiated and carried out a number of improvements in various directions since he came to reside on his Orkney property…..


1880 December 25 The Daily Review

ROUSAY. – Yesterday Mr Archibald McCallum, preacher, was inducted to the pastorate of the Free Church congregation. The Rev. Andrew Gilles, Orphir, preached and presided. Rev. James Stuart, Kirkwall, gave the narrative of proceedings during the vacancy, and Rev. W. D. Robb, Deerness, gave an exposition of the principals of the Free Church. Mr Stuart also addressed pastor and people. The Presbytery afterwards dined in the manse – General Burroughs of Rousay and Veira in the chair. The General also presided at a large soiree in the evening, and welcomed Mr McCallum to the island. Mr Stuart, in presenting Mr McCallum with a gown and cassock, Bible, and Psalm-book from the ladies, referred to the fact that the new pastor had received a call from North Queensferry, and had also been elected to South Leith Church, but had preferred Rousay. Mr McCallum afterwards presented Mr Stuart with a number of standard volumes in acknowledgment of his services as moderator of session during the vacancy.


1881 January 1 Shetland Times

THE DISCOVERY OF ANCIENT REMAINS IN ROUSAY, ORKNEY. – The first monthly meeting of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland was held in Edinburgh on Monday last week. Among the papers read was one by Mr George M. McCrie, the discovery of an urn of steatite in a sepulchral tumulus in Rousay. Mr McCrie excavated a group of five mounds on the farm of Curquoy, and in the largest found a cist with the urn. Cists were found in the others, but no urns. Mr Anderson stated that this interesting group of interments was related to a class of burials of the later Iron Age in Norway, and were probably the graves of early Norse settlers in Rousay before the introduction of Christianity among them. On the motion of Professor Duns, vice-president, a vote of thanks was given to Mr McCrie for his paper and for the presentation of the urn to the Museum; as also to General Burroughs, the proprietor of Rousay. The Academy announces that Mr McCrie will contribute a paper to an early number of Chambers’ Journal on his discovery of this Norse Cemetery in Orkney.


1881 March 5 Shetland Times

SWANS SHOT ON THE WEST SIDE. – Having observed a paragraph describing some large swans shot lately in Rousay, Orkney, a correspondent informs us that four of these birds were shot on a recent occasion, on the West Side, the largest of which five inches more across the wings than the largest shot in Orkney, being 8 feet from tip to tip. It, however, only weighed 16 lbs. as against 17½ lbs, which was the weight of the largest one shot by General Burroughs.


1881 September 8 Northern Ensign

CRUISE OF THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH IN ORKNEY – SHARK CAUGHT NEAR AUSKERRY. – In the first of last week the yacht Francesca, with the Duke of Marlborough and Duke of Roxburghe on board, proceeded for a cruise in the north isles, with Mr William Muir as pilot. On Tuesday, when fishing with a net on the banks off Auskerry a shark was caught, and afterwards landed at Kirkwall. The shark is of the picked species (galeus acanthias) and is five feet in length [probably a tope/school shark]. On Wednesday the yacht, after fishing mussels for bait, again proceeded to the fishing both on the east and west sides of the islands, and in the Stronsay Firth, where some good sport was enjoyed, the distinguished fishers occasionally landing a pair of cod or haddocks at a single haul with hand lines. While the Duke of Roxburghe was engaged fishing off the west side of Rousay, the Duke of Marlborough visited the cliffs and caves near the Lobust, and enjoyed pigeon shooting. On Monday the yacht proceeded to Gairsay, where some pleasant hours were spent in plover shooting. On Tuesday the yacht left for Inverness, all on board having pleasant recollections of the cruise in the islands.


1881 September 9 The Scotsman

NEW CEMETERY AT ROUSAY, ORKNEY. – On Wednesday a new cemetery was consecrated in the Island of Rousay, Orkney, by the Right Rev. the Bishop of Orkney and Aberdeen, on petition by General Burroughs, C.B., of Rousay and Viera, the proprietor of the island. The Bishop was assisted by his chaplain, the Rev. N. K. Macleod, incumbent of Ellon; the Rev. J. B. Craven, incumbent of St Olaf’s Church, Kirkwall; and the Rev. J. Connon, Burravoe, Shetland. The new cemetery lies contiguous to the parish church of Rousay. Yesterday the party were conveyed to Kirkwall in General Burroughs’ steam yacht. The Bishop leaves for Aberdeen to-morrow.


1881 December 27  The Scotsman

…..Yesterday the wind veered round from south to west from which direction it is now blowing a furious gale. The mail steamer cannot cross the Pentland Firth. The steamer Lizzie Burroughs is detained in Rousay, and the steamer Orcadia could not make the passage from the North Isles to Kirkwall. Fears are entertained for the safety of a skiff boat which left KirkwaII for Rousay during a lull on Sunday morning. It was seen to be overtaken by a squall, and the sail lowered; but the drift coming on, obscured the boat from sight. A report has now reached town that the little craft succeeded in getting into shelter. It was only fourteen feet of keel, and had three passengers on board, who were to visit Rousay…..


1882 February 16 John o’ Groat Journal

ORKNEY, (ROUSAY). VOLUNTEER SOIREE AND BALL. – The Sourin schoolroom was the scene of a pleasing event on the evening of Friday, 3rd instant, when a number of friends in this and adjacent islands gathered thither to enjoy the hospitality of the officers, non-commissioned officers, and men of the 8-1st Orkney Artillery Volunteers. Amongst those present we observed General and Mrs Burroughs; Rev. James Gardener, E.C. minister, Miss McCallum, F.C. Manse; Capt., Mrs, and Miss Murrison, and Miss Mackay, Viera Lodge. A blessing having been asked by the rev. gentleman, the company sat down to well-served tea, which, together with the other arrangements, were under the superintendence of Sergeant Instructor William Charlesworth, and for which he deserves special credit, more particularly it is the first affair of the kind he has catered for since his arrival in the island, two years ago. Tea over, General Burroughs, addressing the volunteers, in the course of a few remarks, said he would like to see a better turn out, and went on to say that each volunteer will only be asked to attend 12 drills a year, and they will get a drill hall erected, which will be a great boon. Addressing the ladies, he said he was glad to see so many present, and concluded with a request that none of them should accept “the hand of a man” who is not volunteer. Here the ladies with one accord stood up, testifying their approval of the General’s remarks.

At this juncture the Rev. Gardener took his leave. At about 8 p.m., on it being made known that General and Mrs Burroughs were about to leave, at the request of Lieut. T. B. Reid, three hearty cheers and one cheer more were accorded them, to which the General briefly replied, and “the happy couple,” for such they may be truly termed, left for Trumland. Dancing was the chief attraction, and was participated in with much zest, from seven o’clock on Friday evening until two o’clock the following morning. Violin music was well supplied by Messrs Craigie and Purdie and songs were sung at intervals by Messrs Moyes, Purdie, and Sinclair. Mr Moyes sang “Tam Glen” with much taste. He was also exceedingly happy in his parody on “The Last Rose of Summer,” and in response to an encore gave a parody on “Scotland Yet,” with a degree of success which it is not always in the power of an amateur singer to command. Mr Purdie sang the “Gipsy’s Wedding’’ and two other songs in capital style, and Mr Sinclair sang “Bonnie Scotland’s Woods and Braes,” which was very well received. Ample supplies of wine, cake, and fruit, were supplied throughout the evening at regular intervals. The weather could not possibly have proved more favourable for the occasion; and the moon shone out in all her splendour as each “happy couple” wound their way homeward, after enjoying a first-class night’s amusement. It only remains for us to congratulate the organisers of the entertainment on the cheerful results which attended their labours.


1882 July 1 Aberdeen Press & Journal

PROPOSED OYSTER CULTIVATION IN THE NORTH ISLES. – General Burroughs, Trumland House, Rousay, proposes to cultivate oysters in some of the bays in that island, and Mr Young, Edinburgh, well known in connection with fisheries, is at present in the island visiting the districts so as to ascertain the most suitable spots for placing the bivalves.


1882 August 3 John o’ Groat Journal

GENERAL BURROUGHS, C.B., ON AGRICULTURE IN ORKNEY. – At the dinner after the annual cattle show the Rousay and Veira, (Orkney) Agricultural Society, General Burroughs, C.B., the proprietor of these two islands, in the course of a speech proposing success to the Society, said:- We have heard of late years much complaining of the times, from bad seasons, American competition, and other causes. I am thankful to say we have little cause to complain in this county, for with us the prices of cattle and sheep and grain have maintained their average, and agricultural prospects generally just now are looking bright. Orkney has made, and is still making, year by year very remarkable progress in agriculture; year by year more land is being brought under cultivation; year by year our flocks and our herds are increasing in number and quality; it is said that about half million of money lies to the credit of our farmers in the banks of Kirkwall and Stromness; and there is no reason why Orkney should not soon hold its place amongst the best cultivated counties of Scotland. Our soil is as good as that of most counties, and better than that of many. Our climate is no worse. We have seaware and shell-sand abounding all round our shores, costing merely the labour of carting and spreading on our fields. Cattle dealers periodically perambulate our islands with their money in their pockets and their vessels at our shores, ready to transfer their money from their own pockets to those of our farmers, and to transfer our cattle and sheep from the farms to the boats. Few counties have such advantages. Another very great advantage possessed by the inhabitants of these islands, and one which I fear is hardly sufficiently appreciated, is the harvest of the seas around our coasts. Our seas are alive with fish, and the poorest among us has but to go to the rocks when his day’s work is over, and there in a short time he can catch sufficient fish to keep himself and his family in plenty. Another great source of our food supply in this county is our poultry. It the year 1881, it has been computed from trustworthy statistics, say the public journals, that more than eleven millions eggs were exported from Orkney to the southern markets. A fair estimate of the value of this enormous number of eggs is got by an average of 8d per dozen, which is rather under than over the real value here. This gives a total value of £32,774, which is more than half the free rental of the county, and equal to 20s per head of the entire population.  


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1871

1871 January 4 Orkney Herald

OWING to the storm which prevailed on Saturday afternoon, the s.s. “Queen” did not leave Kirkwall for Lerwick until 8 o’clock on Monday morning. It was fortunate she was in port, for the gale, accompanied by heavy rain, was one of the severest we have had for a long time.

GAME OF FOOT-BALL. – Contrary to expectation, a keenly contested game of foot ball was played on the street on Monday afternoon. The ball was thrown up at 1 o’clock, and, after a fight of two hours the “down the gates” succeeded in taking it to the quay. On the evening of Christmas day another contest of a similar description took place; which, after a long struggle, ended in favour of the “up the gates.” Thus each end of the town has been victorious.

MEETING OF THE FREE CHURCH PRESBYTERY. – This court met at Kirkwall yesterday…..There was handed in a commission from the Kirk Session of Rousay in favour of Mr William Mainland, farmer, Banks, as representative elder for the current half-year…..Mr Roy moved that the Presbytery meet in private, which, being agreed to, the reporters left.

We understand the first matter taken up in private was a petition from the Deacons’ Court of the congregation of Rousay with reference to certain attacks against the teacher of the Congregational School and the Deacons’ Court. Mr Rose was heard in support of the petition. The Presbytery, considering that the attacks proceeded from parties not connected with the Free Church, were of opinion that these parties had no right to interfere in the management of the Free Church school of Wasbister, and expressed their full confidence that the Deacons’ Court would discharge its duties with a due regard to the interests of all concerned…..


1871 January 11 Orkney Herald

ECLIPSE OF THE MOON. – An eclipse of the moon took place on the evening of Friday last. The sky during the greater part of the time remained quite clear, so that it could be witnessed with the utmost distinctness.


1871 February 1 Orkney Herald

A WEATHER DRUM FOR KIRKWALL. – We understand a drum similar to that used in other towns in the kingdom for announcing the approach of a storm will shortly be erected at Kirkwall. It will be under the superintendence of the Harbour Trustees, and it is probable that the assistant Harbour Master will have charge of it. The information as to the approach of coarse weather will be sent by telegraph direct to Kirkwall by the Meteorological Department in London.


1871 February 8 Orkney Herald

AN ECCENTRIC OX. – On the evening of Friday last an ox, landed from the Rousay packet, and which was being conveyed to a cattle shed in the vicinity of the harbour, took fright, and ran up Bridge Street. He stopped opposite the Kirkwall Hotel, which, after a short survey, he entered by the door of the Refreshment-room, passing through the whole lower flat to the front door. Here he seemed inclined to have a look at the street again, but on second thoughts proceeded up stairs to the Commercial-room, where, after marching round the table, and finding nothing suited to his tastes, he was, after sundry attempts, induced to retrace his steps. On reaching the street he at once took forcible possession of a byre in the neighbourhood, where he was at length secured and safely lodged.


1871 February 15 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY. – THE WEATHER for the past few days has been very coarse, especially on the Sabbath, when the attendance at all our churches was very small. We have had a few very rough Sabbaths this winter, such as, I believe, the oldest inhabitants do not remember the like of.

OUR fishermen have done well at the cod-fishing this winter. There is an abundance of fish when they get out to the Firth; but as the weather has been stormy of late, it has been much against the successful prosecution of the fishings.

FARMERS are beginning to get rather uneasy about their out-door work, the frost having kept the ploughing somewhat behind; but a few weeks of fine weather would put this all right again. We cannot complain, however, as some of us have been getting good prices for our cattle. There are still plenty of good young cattle for sale in the island, many of the best lots not having as yet been offered to dealers, there being plenty of keep. There will probably be a few lots tried at the next monthly market.

ELECTION OF A TEACHER. – On Friday last a meeting of the Deacons’ Court of the Free Church was held at the School of Wasbister, at which the Rev. N. P. Rose presided. A large number of heads of families and others interested in the educational institution of the district were also present by invitation. After deliberation, and in accordance with the expressed wishes of the parents present, as ascertained by a vote taken by ballot, the Court unanimously agreed to elect Mr Campbell as teacher of the school of Wasbister. The question of school fees was also considered, when it was agreed that in future these should range from 1s 6d to 3s per quarter, according to the branches of education the children might be taught; the charge as to the higher branches to be left for arrangement between the teacher and the parents.


1871 March 1 Orkney Herald

THE WEATHER for some time has been exceedingly changeable, a few fine days interspersed with storms of wind and rain. Yesterday morning the wind blew keen from the north-east, and the ground was white with snow, imparting a no very comfortable feeling to those who were congratulating themselves on the prospect of a fine spring and early summer.

WEIR – MONDAY. – THE weather here for the last few days has been very stormy and boisterous, the wind almost increased to a hurricane on Tuesday night, and continued till Saturday morning, when it moderated so as to allow of a boat crossing to the neighbouring island for our newspapers and letters.

LOBSTER FISHING. – This fishing is almost a failure, owing to the coarse weather. At one time it was believed that lobsters all went out to deep water in the cold weather of winter; but, strange to say, we now see about a dozen of boats attending this fishing during the winter half-year.

OUR farmers have sold some cattle for feeding, and realised good prices. We believe there are still some unsold.


1871 March 8 Orkney Herald

FRENCH FARMERS’ SEED FUND. – Mr George Learmonth, Westness, has, we understand, received 4 bushels of oats and £4 9s 6d of money contributions from Rousay for the “Suffering Farmers of France Seed Fund.” We think there has been good judgment shown in collecting money rather than grain or potatoes in Rousay, when the difficulty of transportation is considered. The following is a list of the Rousay contributions: – George Learmonth, 10s; Peter Learmonth, 2s 6d; Robert Pearson, 2s ; Peter Reid, 2s; James Sinclair, 2s 6d; John Kirkness, 2s.6d; John Craigie, 5s; John Craigie, jun., 5s; Magnus Craigie, 2s; James Mainland, 2s ; James Robertson, 2s; Rev. James Gardner, 5s; William Mainland, 5s; James Stevenson, 2s 6d; Mrs Craigie, 2s; George Stevenson, 2s; Alex. Craigie, 2s 6d; Robert Gibson, junr., 4s; Seatter, 12s; James Inkster, 2s; Wm. Gibson, 5s; sundries, under 2s, 10s; Mr Scarth, Trumbland, 4 bushels oats.


1871 March 15 Orkney Herald

SNOW STORM. – We have had a considerable fall of snow during the past few days, accompanied by a keen frost. The wind, which blew strong on Monday night and early yesterday morning, continues in the west.


1871 March 29 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – MONDAY. SCHOOL EXAMINATION. – The Rev. N. P. Rose, and the Rev. D. McNeil (Holm) examined the Wasbister School on Friday last. There were also present a number of parents and others interested in the school. The children were well out, and the different classes underwent a careful examination, Mr McNeil taking the leading part. Most of the classes made a very creditable appearance, the Spelling, Geography, and English Grammar deserving special notice. A junior Latin class also merits commendation. In addition to the Bible, through the kindness of Mrs Rose, upwards of twenty other prizes were also distributed, many of them valuable.

THE COMMUNION was dispensed in the Free Church on Sunday, Mr Rose being assisted by Mr McNeil, who, in addition to assisting in Rousay, also preached in Egilshay on Thursday evening.

MR GOLD has received the sum of 5s from Mr James Gibson, blacksmith, Rousay, as a donation to the French seed fund.


1871 April 26 Orkney Herald

A MOST EXTRAORDINARY SOIREE! – The following remarkable announcement, in the form of a hand-bill, was circulated a short time ago:— “Soiree. A Fruit Soiree will be held in the Free Church, Rousay, on Wednesday the 19th inst. The Musical Programme will be one of exquisite beauty and grandeur, most of the pieces being selections from Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ Mendelssohn’s ‘St Paul,’ and the ‘Carmina Sacra.’ The Hallelujah Chorus from ‘Messiah’ is one of those stupendous works of art which seems to stand alone from all other things. There is nothing like it in the whole range Music. It is the very perfection of art. ‘We have never listened to it,’ says one, ‘without feeling as if we heard a great voice from heaven.’ Grand as the Chorus is, it never was, so far as we know, ever before performed in Orkney. All the pieces will be richly accompanied by the Harmonium, at which Mrs ——– will preside. Two young Children will sing some Sacred Songs. Mr Leonard, accompanied by Mr Grieve, will sing the beautiful Solo ‘The trumpet shall sound.’ Mr Leonard will also sing alone the prophetic tenor ‘Comfort ye my people,’ which leads into the Recitative, ‘The voice of him that crieth,’ followed the beautiful air ‘Every valley shall be exalted.’ A number of clergymen are expected to be present and deliver Addresses.”


1871 May 3 Orkney Herald

KIRKWALL – MAY MORNING. – Early on the morning of Monday last, a band of music, followed by a large number of young folks, perambulated the principal streets of the town, and afterwards accompanied by a barrow packed with edibles – ascended to the summit of Wideford Hill to see the sun rise, erect a May-pole, and crown a “queen o’ the May.” The ascent was assuredly not by any means an easy one, especially as the good things had to be dragged up; but all obstacles were surmounted, and a large party breakfasted at sun-rise, and joined in the gladsome sports pertaining to the occasion.


1871 May 10 Orkney Herald

THE CENSUS. – Mr Petrie, Sheriff Clerk, having completed the revisal of the various documents connected with the Census, has furnished us with the following abstract of the results in the county of Orkney: -…..Registration District: Rousay, Egilshay, and Weir. Houses (inhabited) 261, (uninhabited) 9, (building) 0; Persons (male), 525, (female) 575; Total 1100; Number of children receiving instruction 226; Number of rooms with one or more windows 504…..


1871 June 7 Orkney Herald

“GUIDSAKE, woman,” said a douce housewife to an honest milk woman the other day, “what sort o’ milk’s this ye’re doin’ us wi noo? The last I got was about a-third water.” “Then ye’re a’ wrang, guidwife,” answered the milk woman, “it’s some ither body’s milk ye’ve been getting – mine’s half-and-half.”


1871 June 14 Orkney Herald

STROMNESS. – The Hudson’s Bay ships are now daily expected, having left Gravesend eight days ago. A great number of young lads go out this season, as usual, as labourers; and still a few more hands are wanted. – The “Reaper” arrived yesterday from Leith, having been a week on the passage, experiencing stormy northerly winds. She brings a large cargo. – Fishing. – Our fishing boats were pretty successful last week in bringing ashore large hauls of ling, skate, haddocks, and cod. If the weather remains fine, another good week’s fishing is expected. – Barber. – What is much wanted here is a good barber; indeed, there is a good opening for one qualified for the work, and whose spare time might also be turned to good account.


1871 June 21 Orkney Herald

GUN LICENSES. – As there appears to be confusion of ideas respecting the gun license and game certificates, it may be well to say that farmers having the permission of their proprietors to shoot hares and rabbits require no game certificate, but must, in consequence of Mr Lowe’s Bill, procure a gun license before they can even shoot hares or rabbits on their farm. Further, if a farmer desires to have his servant shoot rooks or rabbits, a gun license must be taken out in the servant’s name. A farmer can kill vermin, can ‘scare birds,’ but not shoot them, on his farm without taking out a gun license. We noticed the other day that the Inland Revenue Office had decided that crows are not ‘vermin,’ in the sense of the Gun Act. It will be noticed that the Highland Society have petitioned Parliament to declare that both crows and pigeons are vermin in the sense of the Act. We think they should have gone further, and petitioned Parliament to exempt all farmers from the gun tax to the extent of permitting them to shoot on their own farms without a license, so far as they can do so without breach of contract.


1871 July 5 Orkney Herald

WE understand arrangements are being made for a pleasure excursion to Rousay by the “Orcadia,” to take place on Friday the 21st current. It is to be hoped such arrangements may be made as will allow of the day being really observed as a holiday in town.

KIRKWALL GAOL AND LOCK-UP. – We are informed there has been no criminal prisoner in the gaol here for upwards of four months, and that the lock-up has not yet furnished a night’s shelter to a single unfortunate. There is probably no other town of equal size of which the same can be said.

STROMNESS. — The Hudson’s Bay Company’s Ships. – The vessels belonging to the Hudson’s Bay Company, and which have been in Cairston Roads for the past fortnight, sailed on Saturday morning with a fine easterly breeze. The missionary barque, commanded by Captain Linklater, a native of Graemsay, proceeded at the same time for Labrador. She had on board a number of passengers, among whom were two missionaries. – Arrival from Faroe. – The schooner “Isabella,” of Granton, arrived here last week with a cargo of ponies from North Faroe. She had met very rough weather, and had got short of provender before reaching port; in consequence of this a few of the ponies had died on the passage, while a number of those landed were very indifferent looking animals, but after a few sniffs of the fresh air and a feed of hay they speedily recovered. As they were being conveyed to a grass park a short distance out of town a number of them set off at full gallop, followed by a large crowd of boys, creating quite a commotion in our usually sedate city. Before they were overtaken one of the ponies had committed suicide by running into the sea near the Bridge of Waithe. So much for a steeplechase which did not improve many fields, either of turnips or oats, through which the racers passed.


1871 July 12 Orkney Herald

HOLIDAY EXCURSION. – From our advertising columns it will be seen that the “Orcadia” is to take a party of excursionists to St Margaret’s Hope on Friday next week. It was at first proposed to have this excursion to Rousay, but several people having expressed a desire to see the “metropolis” of the county, Captain Robertson decided upon going to South Ronaldshay. It is to be hoped the day will prove fine.


1871 August 9 Orkney Herald

LARGE METEOR. – On Monday evening, about half-past nine o’clock, a large and bright meteor was observed for a few seconds in the south-west.

LAMMAS MARKET. – The formality of “declaring the market” was as usual gone through on Monday, when the town crier perambulated the streets, beating his drum, followed by a crowd of urchins, as probably was the case fifty years ago.


1871 August 16 Orkney Herald

THE LAMMAS MARKET. – This Market commenced to be held yesterday at Sunnybank, the road to which was all day covered with vehicles of all descriptions, conveying passengers to and from the ground. On Monday afternoon the s.s. “Orcadia” arrived from the North Isles, crowded with passengers. Numerous boats, laden with visitors, also arrived on Monday evening and Tuesday morning; while machines of various construction crowded the roads leading into the town, loaded with visitors from the different districts of the mainland. Taken altogether, there seems to have been a much larger Influx of strangers on the present occasion than for many years past. The usual sweetie stands, shooting ranges, and such accompaniments of fairs, are present in abundance. There were also a couple of “Velocipede cirques,” which did a roaring trade all day long. A batch of the light-fingered gentry also put in an appearance, and are reported to have relieved some visitors of their purses and other valuables. The show of cattle was small, and though there were some very good arrivals exhibited, there were many inferior. Horses, however, were in abundance; high prices were asked and given, and the business done was considerable. The number of dealers present was the largest for many years.


1871 September 6 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY. – Wasbister Free Church School. This school, at present under the care of Mr Wm. M. Craigie, interim teacher, was examined on the 21st July last, by Andrew E. Scougal, Esq., Her Majesty’s Inspector of Schools. The following is his report just come to hand:- “My visit this year was the first inspection of this school. The general condition of the school, as regards both discipline and instruction, does credit to its present young but highly intelligent and painstaking teacher. Arithmetic is decidedly the weakest point; geography and grammar of the highest class very creditable; and one boy did remarkably well in Latin (Virgil’s AEneid, Book1.) and Greek (Zenophon’s Anabasis, Book 1.); religious instruction good. The managers are to build offices immediately, to ceil and floor the schoolroom with wood, and to alter the present absurdly high desks. Parallel desks should be substituted if possible. Proper registers should be provided.”


1871 October 4 Orkney Herald

HORNED WHALES. – A rather amusing circumstance occurred in the neighbourhood of Kirkwall on the evening of Monday last. It appears that a number of cattle, which were being driven along the Ayre Road, stepped into the Peerie Sea, where, after disporting themselves for some time, they ultimately got into the current at the Oyce, by which they were dragged under the bridges, and out into the harbour, to the no small consternation of the miller, who could not comprehend what it was upon which the water wheel of his mill was striking so heavily. The tide dragged the cattle well out into the bay, and the twilight giving them the appearance of a shoal of whales, a number of boats quickly got ready to, if possible, effect a capture. On nearing the supposed sea monsters, at least one boatman is reported to have described them to his companions as a “new species of whale with horns,” and it was only after getting close along-side that the horned whales were discovered to be some half dozen cattle enjoying a twilight bath.


1871 November 1 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY PACKET. – The smack-rigged Boat “Osprey” will Sail as a Packet betwixt KIRKWALL and ROUSAY, calling at EVIE and EGILSHAY, twice a week until further notice, leaving Rousay and Evie on MONDAYS and THURSDAYS. Further particulars in future advertisements. DAVID WOOD, Master.


1871 November 29 Orkney Herald

PACKET TO ROUSAY. – The Packet “REAPER” is now Sailing between the EAST and WEST SIDE of ROUSAY and KIRKWALL, calling at EVIE and EGILSHAY, going and returning, leaving Rousay every Monday and Thursday, and Kirkwall on Tuesday and Friday. For particulars apply to JOHN CORSIE, Master.


1871 December 27 Orkney Herald

CHRISTMAS DAY. – On Monday the banks and other public offices were closed throughout the entire day, but with this exception and the game at foot-ball, played as usual on Broad Street – resulting in victory to the “down-the-gates” – nothing occurred to remind one of Christmas. While writing, we have received an anonymous note signed “Fairplay,” in the following terms – “Let the down-the-gates’ play up, and let the up-the-gates’ play down on New Year’s Day, and then we will see what direction the ball will take.” We think a more sensible plan would be for both sides to take to a field and “play,” there being neither science not play in street mobs. It is about time the authorities were stopping these annual riots.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1870

1870 February 8 Orkney Herald

The weather during the past week continued dry, and, though exceedingly cold, was very suitable for the out-door work of farmers. On Saturday evening the wind blew fresh from the south and gradually increased until Sunday, when we experienced one of the heaviest gales we have had at any time during the winter…..Yesterday the gale had considerably abated, and the atmosphere felt much milder.

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EMIGRATION TO
OTAGO, NEW ZEALAND

ASSISTED PASSAGES GRANTED TO AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS,
SHEPHERDS, AND THEIR FAMILIES, AND FEMALE DOMESTIC
SERVANTS: AS ALSO TO A LIMITED NUMBER OF
TINSMITHS AND COOPERS.

For whom there is a great demand in the Province.

In the Province of Otago there in at present an extraordinary demand for DOMESTIC
SERVANTS as also for SHEPHERDS, PLOUGHMEN, and AGRICULTURAL
LABOURERS; and TINSMITHS and COOPERS are also in demand.

To these classes the Home Agent of the Provincial Government is prepared to grant Assisted Passages on the following favourable terms, viz. : –

Approved of Emigrants, by paying £7 in this Country, are landed Free at Otago, without any obligation whatever for repayment of the balance of Passage Money; while those who cannot pay that sum before sailing, get, in special circumstances, a portion of the amount advanced, to be repaid Six Months after arrival in the Colony. – Single Women who require such assistance getting as much as £6 of the £7 advanced is this way.

One of Messrs P. Henderson and Company’s well-known Line of Packets
will sail from GLASGOW for Otago direct early in March.

A duly qualified Surgeon will accompany the Ship.

R. ROBERTSON, Esq., late Member of the Provincial Council of Otago, and accredited by the Government of that Province, is at present in this Country, and will be glad to answer any enquiries relative to Otago which may he submitted to him by parties desirous of emigrating to that Province of New Zealand. Address –Hudderwick House, by Dunbar.

Parties eligible to receive assistance, and others intending to pay their own Passage Money, will receive full information on applying to

GEORGE ANDREW, Secretary.
OTAGO OFFICE, 60 PRINCES STREET,
EDINBURGH
________________________________________________


1870 April 5 Orkney Herald

COLONEL BURROUGHS, who along with his regiment – 93d Highlanders – arrived last week from India, is at present at Aberdeen. Few officers have seen more service or shown greater bravery in the various campaigns in which he has been engaged than this gallant Colonel.

ROUSAY. SACRAMENT. – The sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was dispensed in the Free Church, on Sabbath week. The Rev. Mr Rose was ably assisted on the occasion by the Rev. James Stuart, Kirkwall, who preached with great acceptance on Saturday, Sabbath evening, and also gave the address at the table service.

U.P. CHURCH. – In the absence of the Rev. Mr McLellan at Sanday, and by his arrangement, the Rev. Mr Stuart, Kirkwall, preached in this Church on Sabbath forenoon. We understand this considerate act of kindness was much appreciated by the congregation.

EXAMINATION OF WASBISTER SCHOOL. – This school, taught by Mr James C. Bruce, was examined on the 25th ultimo, by a committee of the F.C. Presbytery, consisting of the Rev. Messrs Stuart, Kirkwall, and N. P. Rose, Rousay. The day being fine, there was a large muster of the parish and friends of education in the district present. Among others, we noticed – Mrs Seatter, Saviskaill; Mr Robert Gibson, Langskaill; Mr John Gibson, ditto; Mrs David Gibson, do.; Mrs D. Wood, Weir; Mrs Inkster, sen., Innister; Mr and Mrs Sinclair, Stennisgorn; Mr and Mrs Sinclair, jun., do.; Mrs Gibson, Quoys; Mr John Kirkness, Quoyostray; Mr John Craigie, Deithe; Mr William Inkster, Cogar; Mrs H. Craigie, Turbitail, &c., &c. The examination commenced shortly after 12 o’clock, and was conducted chiefly by Mr Stuart, and was continued with unabated interest till 5pm. At the close, Mr Stuart expressed his entire satisfaction with the appearance made by the various classes. Through the kindness of Mrs Rose (who was unavoidably absent), a large number of prizes, in the shape of tastefully-bound books, was distributed by Mr Stuart to the most deserving scholars, as follows: –

Junior Reading Class: Hugh Inkster, Cogar. Second Reading Class: 1 – James Inkster. 2 – A. R. Reid. Third Reading Class: 1 – Margaret Craigie, Greysteen. 2 – Lydia Craigie, Turbitail. Fourth Reading Class. (highest.): 1 – Elizabeth Craigie, Cogar. 2 – Magnus Craigie, Falquoy. English Grammar. (junior.): Lydia Craigie, Turbitail. English Grammar. (senior. ): 1 – Magnus Craigie, Falquoy. 2 – James Sinclair, Stennisgorn. Arithmetic. (senior.): 1 – James Sinclair. 2 – Elizabeth Craigie, Cogar. Writing. (boys.): 1 – James Sinclair. 2 – John Craigie, Cogar. Writing. (girls.): 1 – Margaret McKinlay, Deithe. 2 – Janet Marwick, Whitemeadows. Mental Arithmetic: 1 – Elizabeth Craigie, Cogar. 2 – James Sinclair, Stennisgorn. Geography: 1 – John Kirkness, Grain. 2 – Robert Logie, Old School. Bible knowledge: Elizabeth Craigie, Cogar.

For the Dymock Bible prize there appeared six candidates. The examination was conducted in written questions and answers. The result showed an unusually high degree of proficiency. After a keen competition, the prize was awarded to Elizabeth Craigie, Cogar. In consideration of special merit, a prize was given by Mr Rose to Margaret McKinlay, who stood second. A vote of thanks was given to Mrs Rose for her kindness and consideration.

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Letters to the Editor.

Kirkwall, April 2d, 1870.

Sir, – Would any of your readers give me, through the columns of the Herald, authentic information regarding the exodus of the families who formerly inhabited Enhallow. It is reported that an epidemic so terrified them that they not only left the dead unburied, but also forsook the infected and dying. Any information, or hints as to where such information could be procured, will be very acceptable. – I am. &c., P.

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1870 April 12 Orkney Herald

Letters to the Editor.

ENHALLOW.

SIR, – In reply to your correspondent “P.,” the inhabitants of Enhallow did not leave that island in the way reported. They were not “terrified from it by an epidemic,” and, consequently did not leave “the dead unburied, nor forsake the infected and dying.”

For a considerable period there were four families who resided on Enhallow. Each left the island at different periods, and all apparently with one object, viz., to better their condition in life, and to have more intercourse with their fellow-men. The first family who left did so, I believe, at the request of friends who did not wish them to remain in such an isolated, out-of-the-way place. Of the next two families who left, one of them emigrated to Kirkwall; the head of the other fell in love with a woman in Rousay, and went to share her joys and sorrows. It was then inhabited for a short period by the remaining family, who, after a short time, finding they could not get their children educated, and feeling perhaps a little at the loneliness of their position, they also decided on looking for more congenial quarters.

The epidemic referred to by your correspondent was fever, and carried off some seven or eight individuals, but it was several years previous to the people leaving the island. I may mention that it was not the custom to bury the dead on the island, the church-yards in Rousay or Evie being used for that purpose. This custom, however, has only been introduced of late, as a good many graves are to be seen on the island.

Enhallow in the summer season is a beautiful and fertile spot, is healthy for the most of animals, rats and cats excepted, and would make one fine farm, or a lovely summer retreat for an individual who loved solitude. – I am, &c.,      S.


1870 April 19 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – A FRUIT SOIREE was held in the Free Church here on the evening of Wednesday week. There was a large attendance of people from all parts of the island – many even from the neighbouring islands of Weir and Egilshay. The services commenced at half-past seven o’clock by the choir, under the leadership of Mr Leonard, singing the 100th Psalm.  After prayer, the Chairman – Rev. Mr Rose, pastor of the congregation – rose, and spoke on the nature and uses of social meetings. The Rev. John McLellan, of the U.P. Church, then delivered an excellent address on the power of habit, concluding by giving some suitable counsels to the young. The Rev. Mr Roy, of Firth, delivered an able and telling speech on “Lighthouses and their Lessons,” which was listened to with deep attention. During the evening the choir sang several pieces of sacred music, to which Mrs Rose, who presided at the harmonium, played the accompaniments. An abundant supply of fruit and cake was served to the company by Messrs Thomas R. Reid, George Reid, John S. Craigie, and John McLellan, who acted as stewards. After spending a very pleasant evening, the meeting separated about 10 o’clock, after the benediction had been pronounced by Mr McLellan.

FARMING OPERATIONS. – The late dry weather is allowing our farmers to get their out-door operations rapidly pushed forward.


1870 April 26 Orkney Herald

VOLUNTEER REVIEW. – We understand the Annual Inspection and Review of the 1st Administrative Brigade, Orkney Artillery Volunteers, is to take place on Tuesday the 24th May next, when Colonel McKay, Colonel Burroughs, and Adjutant Lee are expected to be present. We believe Colonel Burroughs intends shortly to take up his residence upon his estate in Rousay, when it is hoped he will be installed Colonel of the Orkney Brigade. To have a thorough soldier – one who like the gallant Colonel has won so many laurels on well-fought fields – as a commanding officer would be of immense advantage to the Brigade.


1870 May 3 Orkney Herald

THE WEATHER during the past week has been exceedingly cold. On Sunday and yesterday the wind blew a perfect storm from the North, accompanied by showers of sleet and snow. A continuance of such ungenial weather will be most prejudicial to the young grass and braird.

EDINBURGH UNIVERSITY HONOURS. – In our notice of the names of those belonging to the county who won distinction at the University, we inadvertently omitted the name of Mr William M. Craigie, Wasbister, Rousay, who stood second in the order of merit both in the Junior Greek and Junior Latin Classes. It was his first session, and the position which he has acquired is most creditable to himself, and also to his teacher, Mr Bruce. We are glad to learn that Mr Craigie is a young man of decided talent, and gives promise, if spared, by diligence and perseverance, of a distinguished career. It is very gratifying to observe the number of young men from this county who have more or less distinguished themselves in the different departments of study during the last session.

[William Marwick Craigie, was the son of William Craigie and Margaret Inkster of Cogar, later Old School],


1870 May 24 Orkney Herald

VOLUNTEER REVIEW. – The annual review of the 1st Administrative Brigade of Orkney Artillery Volunteers takes place today. The programme of the proceedings appeared in the Herald of last week. We regret – and we are sure the Brigade will do so likewise – that Colonel Burroughs, who was expected to take part in the proceedings, has been detained at the head-quarters of his regiment. A large party of civilians have been invited to dine with the officers after the review.

[The proper reason for the gallant Colonels’ absence from the occasion appears below!]


1870 June 14 Orkney Herald

The weather during the past week has been exceedingly cold; the wind blowing fresh from the north and north-west, with occasional showers of sleet and snow. In some districts shallow standing water was at sunrise covered with a sheet of frost. Notwithstanding these untoward circumstances the crops continued to look well. The refreshing showers, however, which fell on Sabbath evening has vastly improved their appearance.

PHOTOGRAPHY. – From an announcement in our advertising columns, it will be seen that Mr Thomas Muir, who has devoted several years to the study and practise of photography, in some of the best establishments in the south, has opened the Studio in Palace Street [Kirkwall] lately occupied by Mr W. Flett, where he intends practising the art. We have seen several portraits recently taken by him, and which were all equal to the generality of those taken in Edinburgh and the south.

MARRIAGES. – At St Peter’s Church, Edinburgh, the 4th inst., by the Rev. J. A. Sellar, Incumbent, assisted by the Rev. J. S. S. Lillie, Frederick William Traill Burroughs, Esq. of Rousay, J.P., D.L., Colonel and Lieut.-Colonel, 93d Sutherland Highlanders, son of Major-General F. W. Burroughs, to Eliza D’Oyly, youngest daughter of Colonel William Geddes, C.B. (late Bengal Artillery), D.L., J.P.


1870 June 21 Orkney Herald

At the marriage of Colonel Burroughs, of Rousay, we understand the bride wore a very beautiful gold bracelet, set with pearl, turquoise, and cornelian, presented to her by the tenants’ wives and other ladies of Rousay and Weir, as a token of the esteem in which they hold their much-respected landlord. The wedding-presents were numerous and magnificent, and among them articles of great beauty and value.


1870 July 12 Orkney Herald

PLEASURE TRIP. – We understand Captain Robertson contemplates running the “Orcadia” to Rousay with a party of excursionists, landing them at one side of the island and taking them on board again at the other. We believe this to be the most popular route which could have been selected.


1870 July 26 Orkney Herald

There were a very large number of passengers by the “St Magnus” on Saturday, among whom were Colonel and Mrs Burroughs, who proceeded to Binscarth the same afternoon.

HOLIDAY EXCURSION TO ROUSAY. – On the morning of Friday last, the s.s. “Orcadia,” freighted with a goodly company of pleasure-seekers, left Kirkwall Harbour at ten o’clock for Rousay. The morning was somewhat cloudy, but the barometer prognosticated a fine day, and, consequently, all were in the highest spirits anxious to secure the greatest amount of enjoyment possible. As most of the excursionists contemplated spending the day among the hills, due attention had been paid to the commissariat. Gentlemen whose game-bags and fishing-baskets were stuffed with eatables and drinkables hoped to have these replaced by rabbits and trout ere they embarked on the return voyage; nor were they disappointed. The island abounds in game, the fine lochs swarm with trout, and the farmers will doubtless for the next fortnight duly repeat a paternoster for the benefit of the kind souls who reduced those pests – the rabbits – by so many dozen on Friday last. In sailing out the bay there was little to attract attention. As we opened Damsay Sound, the mansion house of Binscarth, with the village of Finstown picturesquely situated between the hill came into view. Balfour Castle, pleasantly placed amid a miniature forest, with fine green lawn in front, next attracted attention; and as our smart little boat steamed between Rendall and Gairsay, we observed the ruins of an ancient palace, in which perchance in days gone by the youth and beauty of the north have often met to celebrate the Yule feast. In the twelfth century, Gairsay was the residence of Olaf, the renowned Viking, and his wife Asleif, by whom he had a daughter and three sons, Vallthiof, Gunn, and Swein. The second son was the ancestor of all the Caithness and Orkney Gunn’s, while the youngest – Swein – was the most daring sea-rover of his day. The summer months he devoted to practical expeditions, and the winter to those Jol-feasts, which continued to be held long after the days of the Vikings were ended. To Swein belongs the honour – if such it can be designated – of surprising the city of Dublin, and carrying off all the Aidermen prisoners.

A few minutes after passing Gairsay, we dropped anchor at Westness. But short time was spent in landing the passengers, who no sooner reached terra firma than in parties of twos, threes, and half-dozens, they wandered off in all directions. Rousay is undoubtedly one of the most romantic islands in the group; second only to Hoy. The hills, rising to an altitude of 1100 feet, give it a most imposing appearance. In no part of the island is there anything approaching a level plain. From the sea shore the hills commence to rise, and though for probably on an average of a mile all round the acclivity is not such as to prevent farming operations being conducted in the usual manner, and with the most approved implements of husbandry, yet after this strip of green well-cultivated land has been passed, the hills rise terrace above terrace – in some places so steep that travellers may climb rather than walk to their summits. Standing upon the Cairn of Blotching-field – the highest peak in the island – an excellent view of the whole northern group is obtained. Far in the distance is Kirkwall, and its ancient Cathedral; to the south-west Wideford, the Orphir, and the Hoy hills seem to form one range – an impassable bulwark against the advance of western foes. The plains of Sandwick, Harray, and Birsay; the dark lands of Firth, and the green fields of Rendall and Evie, with the ships and boats sailing through the firths and bays, make a beautiful and romantic panorama. Dimly rising above the sea level, and, on account of the distance somewhat indistinctly traced, is Foula; while as a mist-cloud rises upon the summer’s breeze, Fair Isle looms aloft like a phantom of air. North Ronaldshay, Sanday, Eday, and Westray, stretch out in all their varied beauty – green fields intermingling with the dark heath-clad hills. Passing through and over peat-bogs, and hills, and dales innumerable, around and between lakes many feet above the sea level, we at length descended to the road which encircles the island. A short walk brought us to Westness House, built, it is supposed, on the site once occupied by the dwelling of the celebrated Jarl Sigurd. Westness House, now the residence of Colonel Burroughs, the proprietor of the island, is most picturesquely situated on the slope of the hill in the midst of a cluster of trees, planted several years ago by the late Mr Traill of Woodwick.

The west and north sides of the island are far the most romantic. A short distance from Westness is Sweinrow, where Jarl Paul is supposed to have been captured by Swein, the son of Asleif. Paul, hearing that his rival, Jarl Ronald, had arrived from Norway, fled to Rousay hoping to receive protection and assistance from Sigurd. He was hiding in one of the caves in Scabro Head, when Swein, in a war-galley, entered the sound. Paul’s hiding-place was soon discovered, and a desperate fight between his followers and those of Swein ended by the retainers of the former being all slain, while Jarl Paul himself was captured and carried prisoner to Morayshire. The grave mounds of those killed are still to be seen near to the sea shore. About the same locality are a couple of those mounds commonly designated Picts’ houses, or Broughs. One of them having been partially explored, we were able to enter what seemed to be the principal apartment, from which there were at least two entrances to other passages or chambers, but from neither of which the earth and other debris had been cleared. A short distance farther on are the Sinians of Cutclaws – sea-caves which penetrate in some cases several hundred yards up through the land, terminating in large circular openings in the level ground, hundreds of feet in depth, and into which the sea, through these subterranean caves, surges with a hollow boom. The west side also boasts of the highest precipices. Hell’s Point, or Hallyea-Spur, is a mural precipice extending, we believe, to upwards of a mile in length, and nearly 500 feet in height. At the same range of cliffs is what is known as “the Lobist,” a huge stack, or colossal pillar of rock, on a level with, but detached from the land by a chasm several yards in width. This rock, as well as the crags all around, are constantly covered with immense flocks of sea birds, each different species retaining their own particular part of the rock. The young were all able to fly, else, a most intelligent friend – who kindly accompanied us around the island and pointed out the “lions” – informed us it would not have been safe to have ventured near the place, the sea-gulls who hatch their young at the summit of the precipice being valiant defenders of what undoubtedly they deem their “Vaterland.” The Kilns of Brimnovan are also well worth a visit. These consist of a number of natural arches and caves, worn by the ceaseless motion of the waves. Some of the caves are of colossal proportions, sufficient to permit an ordinary fishing boat to pass underneath, in full sail. The sea caves here, as in other parts of the island, run long distances up into the land. In many instances the length of the caves have never been explored. Some are inhabited by the rock pigeon and the cormorant, while in others the seal finds a safe and secure retreat. Here every shelf of rock is covered by thousands of sea fowls, whose ceaseless movements and incessant cries startle and bewilder the beholder. One of the prettiest spots in the whole island is the Loch of Wasbister, noted for the excellence and abundance of its trout. In the centre of the loch is a small island covered with trees – a very oasis in the “waste of waters,” and a safe hatching-place for the teal and the eider duck. While passing along there was pointed out to us the huge stone slab which the giant Cubberow threw from the Fitty Hill of Westray at a person who had done him some injury! The marks of his fingers are still to be seen on the stone! and if any of our readers are inclined to doubt the fact of their being “giants in those days,” we recommend them to examine this monolith, and be no longer “faithless!!”

In point of agriculture, the island seems fully abreast of some of its neighbours. There are numerous excellent steadings, with thrashing-mills attached, and surrounded by splendid crops of grain and turnips. Flocks of fine sheep pasture in ample fields adjoining the farms, as well as on the common. We believe that, taken as a whole, Rousay will favourably compare with any island in the group. The various trades and professions are amply represented, there being no fewer than a dozen joiners, ten shoemakers, three tailors, one mill-wright, one clock-cleaner, and one tinsmith. There are three professors of the birch; while theology is duly promulgated by three clergymen, belonging one to each of the Established, Free, and United Presbyterian Churches.

Having made the circuit of the island, we arrived at Sourin, where the steamer was waiting to take us to Kirkwall. Across the sound, was the ruins of St Magnus Church on the island of Egilshay – a church built possibly to commemorate the Jarl of the name who, centuries ago, was foully murdered in the island, and who was subsequently elevated to a niche in the calendar of Orcadian saints.

After a short delay, all were safely got on board, the whistle sounded, and our good ship was once more under weigh for Kirkwall. Several members of the Choral Union being among the excursionists, a glee party was got up, which in no small degree contributed to the pleasure of the voyage home. The day had throughout continued beautiful, and the whole party were safely landed at Kirkwall quay about nine o’clock. The whole arrangements connected with the excursion were made by Captain Robertson with much care and excellent discrimination, and nothing transpired to mar the harmony of the “happy family.” All returned home highly delighted with one of the most successful holiday excursions ever enjoyed by Orcadians.


1870 August 2 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – ARRIVAL OF COLONEL AND MRS BURROUGHS. – When it became known to the inhabitants of Rousay and Weir that Colonel Burroughs had arrived in Orkney, there was a strong desire manifested by all the tenants on his estate to have an opportunity of meeting and welcoming their landlord and his lady on their arrival in Rousay. This feeling was the more general on account of this being the first occasion upon which Mrs Burroughs has visited Orkney. During the early part of the week the one great subject of talk in the islands was the arrival of the laird and his lady. It soon became known that Thursday was the day on which they were expected to arrive; and consequently at an early hour of that day groups of farmers might be seen wending their way, from all parts of the island, in the direction of Westness; while those from Weir, who had crossed the sound from that island, were also moving to the same destination. At Westness House everything wore a holiday aspect, and it was quite apparent that an event of more than ordinary interest was near. The flagstaffs, both at the house and the shore, were covered with flags; and on the grassy slope surrounding the mansion-house the assembled tenants were squatted in groups. On the road from the landing-place a triumphal arch had been erected, bearing the appropriate motto, “Welcome,” in large characters. A profuse display of bunting was also floating from the flagstaffs at the houses of Hullion and Corse, so that the island in all directions wore quite a gala-day appearance. About half-past one o’clock all eyes were directed to the opposite shore of Evie, from which the party were expected to arrive. Ere long the boat, with colours flying, was observed to leave the shore; and, with a favourable breeze, was speedily alongside the pier of Westness. Directly the gallant colonel and his lady touched the island, they were received with three hearty cheers by the crowd who had by this time assembled at the place of landing. Having arrived at the lawn opposite the entrance to the grounds, and all present having been introduced to the Colonel and his lady, Mr John Gibson, Langskaill, was requested to read the following address of welcome and congratulation:-

“COLONEL AND MRS BURROUGHS, – We, representing the whole tenantry of the islands of Rousay and Weir, have this day the greatest pleasure in welcoming Colonel Frederick William Traill Burroughs to his island home. This we now do most cordially; and, if possible, the more so as he brings with him a lady regarding whom we have already heard good reports as being well fitted to aid and encourage him in every good work, and one in whose presence we shall only add if she were not good, her looks would not tell truth. Colonel and Mrs Burroughs, we bid you a hearty welcome.

“No connection betwixt man and man ought to be more carefully guarded than that betwixt landlord and tenant, and every good man who loves his country should do what in him lies to cement that tie, and to continue what in troublous time has formed the strength of the nation – that union and co-obligation of classes which made a brotherhood of all claiming the same country – landlord and tenant standing back to back and facing the enemy at all points.

“Sir, we have now but kind and gracious remembrances of you, of your late uncle Mr Traill, and of his connections, the worthy and loved family who formerly owned and occupied Westness; and we hope to prove to you in the good management of our farms, and fulfilment of our obligations, that we are not unworthy of a good landlord. At all events, we shall do our best. We may now hope, after the gallant course you have so long pursued as a soldier in the service of your country, and the many perils through which you have passed, that you will be allowed a time to rest in this your retirement; and that, accompanied by your amiable and beautiful lady, you shall once more go out and in amongst us to direct us by your advice, and to cheer us by your approval.

“You will see that we have not been idle since you last visited Rousay, and that while you were fighting your country’s enemies on the hills of the Crimea, and in the unhealthy jungles of India, we, too, have been fighting against a rugged soil and an uncertain climate, endeavouring to make two blades of grass grow on your islands where one, or rather none, grew before.

“We beg once more to assure Mrs Burroughs and yourself of the sincere happiness it gives all your tenants, and, indeed, all the residents in Rousay and Weir, to welcome you both to your home of Westness; and we pray the Almighty to bless you there and elsewhere, and to make you a blessing.”

Colonel Burroughs briefly replied, thanking them for the honour done Mrs Burroughs and himself, and expressing the hope that he would be able to see them all personally at their own farms. He concluded by requesting their presence inside the house, where refreshments would be served. Shortly afterwards, all returned home, highly gratified at seeing their respected landlord once more among them, and delighted that he had taken along with him his amiable and accomplished lady.


1870 August 10 Orkney Herald

THE WEATHER. – During the past week the weather has been exceedingly hot. Yesterday the thermometer stood at 75 deg. in the shade, and 110 deg. in the sun – probably the highest reading for twenty years.


1870 August 17 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – DINNER TO COLONEL BURROUGHS. – On Friday last, the tenants of Rousay and Veira entertained their landlord, Colonel Burroughs, and his lady, at dinner in the large barn of Westness farm, which was gaily decorated with flowers and evergreens. About fifty sat down to dinner besides the guests, including Colonel, and Mrs, and Miss Burroughs; Mr Charles Dépeyson Burroughs, and two other gentlemen visitors at Westness; Dr Logie, Kirkwall; Mr Scarth of Binscarth; Mr James C. Scarth, Scar House, Sanday; the Rev. Messrs Gardner and Rose; and Messrs Mackay and Reid, schoolmasters.

The tenants having requested Mr Scarth to take the chair, the company sat down to a substantial and well-served dinner at 4 o’clock, and seldom has a company spent a more pleasant evening. After dinner, the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given, and heartily responded to.

The Chairman then gave the toast of the evening on the part of all the tenants of Rousay and Veira (many of the smaller tenants were unavoidably absent at the fishing in Stronsay). “The warmest and heartiest welcome, and long life, health, and happiness to Colonel and Mrs Burroughs;” making a few well-timed remarks on the importance of such kindly meetings as the present, the happy connection upon grounds of mutual interest and mutual respect existing betwixt Colonel Burroughs and his tenantry, the amiability of his character; his gallant, long, and arduous services to his Queen and country; the rejoicings of the tenantry on learning that on his return from India with his gallant regiment, the 93d, he was to marry and settle down amongst them; the hearty welcome they had given to him and his amiable lady on their landing; and their spontaneous desire, so admirably carried out, of having a social meeting with them both, as on this happy occasion. The Chairman said it gave him the greatest pleasure to be their spokesman on this occasion, although he was very unable to do justice to such a toast; which was then drunk with all the honours, three times three cheers, and three cheers additional for Mrs Burroughs.

Colonel Burroughs, in returning thanks, said – Gentlemen, I beg to thank you for your very kindly welcome to my wife and myself – to my wife on her first appearance amongst you, and to me on my return home after an absence of eleven years. I thank, through you, the Ladies of Rousay and Veira for the very handsome wedding-present they were so kind and thoughtful as to send my wife. Handsome as the gift is, it is of far more value to us as showing the interest you take in all concerning us, and that you sympathise with us in our joys and sorrows. I trust that this kindly feeling may ever continue amongst us. Reference has been made to the connection between landlord and tenant. I think I need not reassure you how fully I reciprocate the sentiments you have so well expressed. It is, whatever popular agitators may say or write to the contrary, to the mutual interest of landlord and tenant to keep on the friendliest terms; and it is to our mutual good, happiness, and comfort, that we should pull well together; and this, I believe, is to be best effected by our reciprocally and ungrudgingly performing the duties and obligations devolving upon each of us. In addressing you at a similar meeting the last time I was at home, I pointed out to you all that had come under my observation in my excursions through the islands. You will perhaps be glad to hear what I think of the changes that have since taken place. You may perhaps remember that I expressed hopes of some day seeing a good road round the island, and to see many a gig rattling over it; to see your farms and fields scientifically squared, and cultivated to the latest improved system of agriculture; to see a better style of houses enlivened by flowers, and shrubs, and trees about them. All this I now see in a great measure fulfilled. We have now an excellent road round Rousay. I hope there will soon be one through Veira; and I hope ere long we shall have good roads of access to those districts of Rousay that may require, such as from Scockness, from Saviskaill, and through the hills from Westness to Sourin, past the Free Kirk. I hope, too, that the long-talked-of pier will soon be a reality. I see a very great improvement in the system of farming. Not to see a well-squared and well-drained field is now, I am very glad to say, an exception amongst us. This clearly proves that all – even those who were most difficult to be persuaded – are coming round to see that it is to their own advantage to cultivate their land in an orderly, careful, and scientific manner. Much dyking and enclosing has, I am glad to see, been done by many here present; and, if you ask them, I think they will tell you they are not losers thereby. In other cases, I am sorry to see dykes left in the same unfinished state they were in when I was last here – just where the landlord’s allowance per lease ceased – and some of these on exposed bits of land, requiring all the shelter procurable, and the completion of which dykes (had they been immediately completed) would ere now have handsomely repaid their erection, by the amount of cattle and crop they would have sheltered and saved. Their non-completion, I think those concerned will admit, has been short-sighted policy on their part. I am very glad to see the improvement that has taken place in house-building and house-keeping; to see, even in some of the lowliest cots, the neatly-kept, clean, and comfortable chambers, with their plastered roofs, papered walls, and deal floors; to see clean and comfortable fire-places and grates, and in some cases (especially Veira) to find the latest patent cooking-stoves and ranges in the kitchens of the houses. The peat fire in the centre of the floor of a house, with merely a hole in the roof above by way of a chimney, once so common in the northern counties, is now, I am glad to see, consigned to the past amongst us. I am glad to see this because, irrespective of the darkness, dirt, and discomfort it engendered, I believe it did much towards increasing the illness and complaints of the sickly. Mrs Burroughs has been very pleased to see the pretty flowers in the windows of many houses we have visited, and to see the well-kept gardens, shrubs, and trees around them; and she begs me to say how happy she will be to assist you all, so far as in her power, by giving you cuttings or seeds from the gardens of Westness. Considering how far behind, agriculturally, Orkney was to the rest of Britain some thirty years ago, it is astonishing to see the progress the county has lately made, and, indeed, is yearly making. It strikes me, perhaps, more, who have been so long absent, than it does you who have remained on the spot. Much has been done, but there yet remains plenty for us to do; and I do not despair of living to see it all done. And of seeing Orkney equal to most counties of Great Britain; and I do not assert this wildly, but with forethought, for I have just returned from a long journey through France, Belgium, Prussia, Austria, and Southern Germany, and through England and Scotland; and I have seen everywhere, excepting, perhaps, in Scotland, a good deal worse farming than is to be seen on any properly-cultivated farm in Orkney, and I have seen farms in Orkney as well and carefully cultivated, and as productive of their kind as any elsewhere. I may notice this very farm of Westness as an instance; and I can vouch for its productiveness by the balance of cash it yearly returns me, under Mr Learmonth’s skilful cultivation; and what has been done by some may be done by others. I desire here, before you all, to thank Mr Scarth for his judicious and careful management of my estate. By his advice, a considerable part of my rental has yearly been devoted to the improvement of my estate; and it has produced good fruit. The admirable system of letting farms, initiated by him, has worked fairly and advantageously for both landlord and tenant. It has secured to the industrious farmer, in peace, and comfort, and perfect security, a sure return for his outlay of labour and capital; whilst the equal and fixed seven years’ rises of rent point out any tenants who prefer idleness to industry, and standing still to progressing. I beg to thank you all for this very handsome entertainment. I hope, before I leave Rousay, to see you all here again, and that you will then bring your wives and daughters and sons with you; and I hope, before very long, that Mrs Burroughs and I will be permanently settled in Rousay, and that we may then have many such meetings. Again I beg to thank you most cordially. (Loud applause.)

Amongst the subsequent toasts were the Church of Scotland, and the other churches and clergymen of Rousay, responded to by the Rev. Messrs Gardner and Rose, the Chairman reading the following letter from the much respected minister of the United Presbyterian Church, whose unavoidable absence, and its cause, were much regretted:-

——————————-
U.P. Manse, Rousay, 12th Aug. 1870.

To the Chairman of Committee for arranging the public dinner to be given to Col. Burroughs.

MY DEAR SIR, – In consequence of slight indisposition, I feel that I cannot avail myself of your kind invitation to the dinner in honour of your esteemed proprietor. Most heartily do I join with the tenants in their expressions of goodwill to the gallant Colonel, and hope that he and his amiable lady may be long spared to countenance and encourage you in your labours of honest industry. – I am, with much respect, yours very sincerely,                JOHN McLELLAN.

————————

Many toasts and speeches followed. On “Schools and Education” being given, Mr Thomas Balfour Reid, teacher of the General Assembly’s School, Sourin, responded by reading the following poetical address:-

A voice of loud cheering is heard on our shore,
Again ‘tis renewed, yet, once more and once more,
And flags are all flying, from turret and tower,
And words of glad welcome, are spoke in that hour.
Why flutter these flags, and why cheer so high?
Our landlord long absent, to his home draweth nigh,
Nor hither alone is he wending his way,
But with him his lady, so lively and gay,
As gentle and peerless, as a flower in May,
Ah! How short is the time, since thus we met here,
To welcome him home with her he holds dear;
Ah! How short is the time till again he must go,
How brief is our joy, but how lengthened our woe.
We rejoiced at his coming and hoped he would stay,
But fate adverse fate says he must away;
His absence before filled our hearts oft with dread,
Lest the demons of war near his footsteps might tread;
Lest the Sepoy so subtle might unfaithful prove,
And treacherously smite in return for his love.
I am pained by these thoughts so expressive of sadness
When at present we ought to be roused into gladness,
He is here in our midst, in the full glow of health,
(A blessing which cannot be purchased by wealth),
And his beautiful bride, who has won every heart:
By so kindly, so courteously, acting her part –
Her name we will cherish, until she return,
And the briefer her absence, the shorter we’ll mourn.
Our exteriors are rough, and our manners are rude,
But our hearts are all right, be that understood,
And she understood; nor did she expect
Courtly breeding; oft no proof of respect,
But respect is too cold, we love her, that’s ended;
The Colonel must hear it, and not be offended.
Yet still though we now are so joyous of heart,
All fear from our mirth, we never can part,
For Europe in arms, is tidings so dire,
We cannot foretell, what may therefrom transpire,
Though now for a season, Ah! How very protracted,
We must joyful be, even when, we’re dejected,
At the thought that again how soon he must go,
To marshal his troops, perhaps, combat the foe;
But go if he should, mid the cannon’s loud rattle,
Though we cannot protect – our God rules the battle –
And though spearmen, nor lancers, nor soldiers are we,
To help in his need, if needing was he,
Yet we, to a throne of grace can repair,
That God, who has guided his steps every day,
May guide, and protect him for ever and aye.
I am sure you are wearied, and indeed it’s no wonder,
You have listened with patience, to many a blunder,
For your patience my best thanks are certainly due;
Let me ask you to pardon my blundering too;
But yet I’m not done, I’ve a toast to propose,
That was the main object for which I arose;
Let your glasses be charged, fill, fill, to the brim,
If any neglect, drink dishonour to him;
To our noble guest, and his lovely young bride,
May they soon return, not to visit but reside,
Then with all the honours pledge ye your laird,
If ye for yourselves, have any regard,
And if ye wish here, to be honoured thro’ life,
Show no less respect, for his handsome young wife.

The “Tenantry of Rousay and Veira” was next proposed, coupled with the name of Mr John Gibson. In replying,

Mr Gibson said he was much better accustomed to hard-work than public speaking, and wished the duty of returning thanks for the “Tenantry” had fallen upon one better able to discharge the duty. About forty-nine years ago, the first turnips were sown in the fields of Rousay, and about twenty-five years ago a more improved system of farming, with a regular rotation of crops, was begun and carried on, and the agriculture of the island has thereby been greatly improved. There was, however, still much to do. He hoped with the assistance of Colonel Burroughs that a small Agricultural Society would be started in the island, when ploughing matches could be got up thereby, infusing more spirit into the ploughmen. Another improvement greatly needed in the island was a doctor. In winter it sometimes was impossible to get aid from Kirkwall. Dr Logie visited the island occasionally, and at any time when he found it necessary to call upon that gentleman, he always found him very obliging and kind. The Chairman had complemented the tenants on not being due Colonel Burroughs or him one sixpence. He (Mr Gibson) thought the tenants must congratulate the Colonel upon having so excellent a factor, since it was owing to his good plans and wise counsel that the tenants were enabled to pay their rents with so much regularity. Should any one chance to be a little in arrears, the factor gives him a gentle hint. Though the soil of Rousay is very rugged and hard to cultivate, he hoped the day was not far distant when every available spot in the island would be improved.

Dr Logie proposed the health of Miss Burroughs, to which Mr C. Burroughs replied, thanking the company for the cordial manner in which they had drunk his sister’s health.

The toasts of “The oldest tenants,” coupled with the names of Mr Malcolm Corsie, Nears, and Mr Robert Sinclair, Swandale, which was duly acknowledged; and of “The youngest tenants,” coupled with the name of Mr Gibson, Langskaill, and Mr Marwick. The health of Mr Learmonth was also proposed and duly responded to.

After many other toasts, which produced instructive and humorous speeches and replies, had been given, Mr Sinclair proposed the health of the Chairman, whom he described as a hard, very hard man, not to be driven from his purpose either by threats or soft sawder, acknowledging, at the same time, his honesty in act and deed, always keeping his promise, though charry of making one; and adding that somehow there was luck under him, as every man found means of paying his rents.

The Chairman replied that he preferred leaving the amiable part to the landlord; but he was happy to be able to say, that although he had often helped struggling tenants by small loans for which he never charged a penny of interest, there was not at that moment ten shillings due either to the landlord or to himself by all the tenants on the Estate. He could conceive no greater cruelty than to allow a tenant to fall into arrears of rent, and be handed over to the lawyers.

The health of Dr Traill of Woodwick and his family was next given, with not a few reminiscences of what the island and people of Rousay owed to his father and uncle, who long resided amongst them.

Mr John Gibson proposed the health of Mr George Scarth, who had taken so much trouble in making the necessary arrangements for the dinner.

Mr Scarth, in returning thanks for the cordial manner in which his health has been responded to by the company, said he felt assured he only expressed the feelings of all the committee of management, as well as his own, when he said that the little exertion they had to make was really no trouble, but a great pleasure, and more than compensated for by the success of the meeting, as also the kind and friendly way in which the Colonel and his lady had met and visited all the tenants upon his estate.

After the whole company had sung some appropriate verses of “Auld Lang Syne,” the meeting separated, every one highly delighted with the success of the entertainment, and the admirable management of the stewards.


1870 August 31 Orkney Herald

THE NEW GUN LICENCE. – We have to remind those of our readers who are in the habit of carrying guns that the new duty of 10s per year for permission “to use or carry a gun in the United Kingdom” falls to be paid tomorrow. Where a gun is carried by two or more persons in company, each and every one shall be deemed to “carry the gun,” and be liable in the duty.

We understand that Colonel Burroughs has resolved to take steps to prevent the interesting remains of an ancient chapel in the island of Weir from going to utter ruin, to which it appears to be fast hastening, and is also to prevent the removal by the tenants on the same island of the remains of the old castle of “Cubbie-Row,” which was anciently the stronghold of one of the formidable Orkneyan Vikings.


1870 September 14 Orkney Herald

THE NEW HALFPENNY POSTAGE STAMP. – In addition to the large stores of the halfpenny stamp already deposited in the General Post Office here, for distribution among the sub-post offices on the 1st October next, when the stamp will come into full operation, the Post Office authorities have considerately sent to all the post-masters single stamps cancelled with the word “specimen,” for the purpose of being exhibited. Although no sales can be made until the first proximo, we understand that a brisk competition has set in for purchases, the quantities already recorded being in hundreds and thousands. The money to be invested being only 4s 2d per hundred, private individuals and business firms will no doubt continue to purchase to a large extent. One of the first commercial purposes to which these little “instruments” is to be applied is the announcement of a visit of a traveller at a particular place of business on a given day to take orders. The sender of such notice makes no secret of his programme, but rather courts publicity. These cards, however, are to have the privilege of letters, and no post office official can divulge or make public the script on them, so that semi-private notes may with all safety be transmitted on the cards, the extent of publicity being confined to the circle of the family or employers of the receiver. The Queen’s head, a neat border, royal arms, and instructions are quite pictorial and all in a lilac tincture. The novelty of the stamp bespeaks for it a large prospective circulation. Edinburgh Courant.


1870 September 21 Orkney Herald

HARVEST. – During the past week we have had occasional showers of rain, but not such as to retard harvest operations, which are now in almost every district far advanced. The crops in general are excellent, and the soft weather has vastly improved the turnip crops.


1870 September 28 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY. – On Thursday, the 22nd instant, Colonel Burroughs entertained the tenantry of Rousay and Viera to dinner at Westness. The day was one of the finest of this fine season; but there was evidence of a severe gale in the far Atlantic in the fringe of white foaming waves, which stretched, in a line outside Eynhallow, from Skeaburgh Head to Costa, and the roaring surge in the caves of the West Crags. The sun shone brightly, and the inner sounds were smooth as a mirror, reflecting the hills and headlands. Westness, always beautiful, looked its best on this day, giving a smiling welcome to the groups of gaily dressed people, who were seen descending the hills and filing through the glens on their way to it.

The splendid weather made some change in the arrangements for dinner, for which the barns had been seated. It was resolved to dine outside upon the grassy lawn which extends from the garden wall to the burn at the offices. Never was seen a more beautiful sight anywhere than the party of about 400 old and young men and women, seated in half circles upon the green slope, interspersed here and there with a group of beautiful girls, dressed in white muslins, with gay sashes and head dresses.

The Rev. Mr Gardner, minister of the parish, asked a blessing; and the Rev. Mr Rose, of the Free Church, returned thanks, each, in appropriate language, urging gratitude for the fine season, the bountiful harvest now secured, and the happy circumstances under which they were all met that day to enjoy the liberal hospitality of their landlord, who had returned to them after long and arduous labour in distant lands, and in the service of his Queen and country.

The dinner lasted from three to five o’clock, the bagpipes being played all the time, and thereafter the young people enjoyed themselves until sunset dancing on the green, while the elders and children had free access to the gardens; Colonel and Mrs Burroughs, and their friends, exerting themselves, and most successfully, to make all feel comfortable and to enjoy the day.

When the daylight was about done, the barns were lighted up and tea served round, and with three violins and the bagpipes, dancing was kept up in the three barns with great spirit until eleven o’clock, when all said good-night and returned to their homes pleased with their day’s enjoyment, and highly appreciating the urbanity and frank kindness of Colonel Burroughs and of his amiable lady, who has gained all hearts in Rousay. No wonder that all the tenants are delighted with the near prospect of their taking up their permanent residence on the island. Soon may the time arrive when we shall have no absentee proprietors in Orkney.

We understand that Colonel Burroughs left for Thurso on Monday, on his way to Dunrobin Castle, having an invitation from the Duke of Sutherland to spend some days there. Afterwards he returns to his regiment, the 93rd Highlanders, now quartered at Aberdeen, his leave of absence not extending beyond the present month.

We cannot close this record of a happy day in Rousay without a reference to the admirable way in which the details were managed by Mr Learmonth, Colonel Burroughs’ overseer in Westness farm, and the preparation of the dinner by Mrs Learmonth, and the waiting by the servants No one was neglected in all this numerous assemblage, and although there was an abundant supply of beer, ale, and even of toddy, not a single case of anything approaching to intemperance occurred ; while the demeanour of old and young was highly creditable to the islanders, and most have been gratifying to their clergymen who were present.


1870 October 5 Orkney Herald

NOTICE. – The Boat “REAPER” will early next month sail as a Packet between the East and West side of Rousay and Kirkwall, calling at Evie going and returning. The Boat will leave Rousay every Monday and Thursday. For further particulars apply to John Corsie. Mount Pleasant, Rousay.

THE WEATHER during the past week has been as fine as any in June; and, with the exception of the dark evenings, and frost during the nights, people could not desire better summer weather. Farmers, whose crops were not stacked before this return to summer, are afraid to do so now, as in numerous cases oats which had been a fortnight in the barn-yard, has had again to be carted to the field. There being no gales of wind to dry the sheaves, the slight moisture which they contained when built caused them in many cases to “take heat,” and farmers have not unfrequently had difficulty in preserving the crop.


1870 October 19 The Orcadian

MRS GOLDIE will be happy to receive at her residence, EAST ROAD, any WARM CLOTHING (viz., Worsted Socks, Comforters, Knitted Vests, &c.) for the soldiers and prisoners now suffering from the cruel war presently raging between France and Prussia. Anything that can be done to assist our suffering brethren, is requisite to be done without delay. This appeal is made by a Christian and benevolent lady, a native of Orkney, who takes a warm and lively interest in every good work of charity and mercy. Kirkwall, 18th October 1870.

[The Franco-Prussian War or Franco-German War, often referred to in France as the War of 1870, was a conflict between the Second French Empire and later the Third French Republic, and the German states of the North German Confederation led by the Kingdom of Prussia. Lasting from 19 July 1870 to 28 January 1871, the conflict was caused by Prussian ambitions to extend German unification and French fears of the shift in the European balance of power that would result if the Prussians succeeded. – The German victory lead to the Treaty of Frankfurt, the fall of the Second French Empire, the Formation of the French Third Republic, and the beginning of Franco-German enmity.]


1870 October 26 The Orcadian

ROUSAY – THE weather during the harvest weeks has been very fine, and the crop was cut in excellent condition, but some of our farmers were too hurried in taking it into their stackyard, when the excessive heat, and the absence of a gale of wind, caused some of the oats to heat a little, causing it to be taken down; but this little trouble is more than compensated for by the good effect the warm weather has had on the turnips, which look to be a good crop. Potatoes are also a good crop, far above that of last year.

WE had a visit of Colonel Burroughs and his lady for a few weeks, during which time they visited every house in the island, and seemed to take a deep interest in the welfare of the tenantry. The Colonel seemed highly satisfied with the improvements made on his island during the past ten years, and has complimented his tenants that in many cases they have done beyond his expectations.

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EDUCATION IN ROUSAY.

To the Editor of the “Orkney Herald.”

Sir, – lf we are behind in any one thing more than another it is education. I do not mean the whole island, but one district (Wasbister in particular). At one time this year it was believed that something was to be done. The Moderator of the Deacons’ Court, knowing that the people were very dissatisfied, and hearing complaints from every quarter, met with some deacons and elders residing in the district in order to discover the real state of matters, and to make known the same to the teacher. After consultation, all parties agreed that the teacher should remain until Martinmas, and then leave; but matters continue as they were, and the people being thus deceived, are more dissatisfied than ever. I believe that one member of the Deacons’ Court is responsible for all, but I still hope to see him exercising his power (which in this case is little other than despotic) in the interests of education. – l am, &c.         F.
Wasbister, Rousay, 22d Oct. 1870.


1870 November 9 Orkney Herald

EDUCATION IN ROUSAY – Free Church of Rousay, 31st October 1870. – At a full meeting of the Deacons’ Court – there being twelve members present – held in the above place, the following minute was unanimously adopted:-

“The attention of the Deacons’ Court was called to a letter which had appeared in one of the local newspapers (The Orkney Herald) of date 26th, animadverting strongly on the state of education in the district of Wasbister, and reflecting in somewhat bitter terms on the procedure of this Court and the Moderator thereof; charging them with deceiving the people and obstructing the progress of education in the district. The author of the said letter has not seen fit to adhibit his name, whilst presuming to make serious charges against men acting in the discharge of public duty, and they cannot but regard such conduct as a violation of Christian charity. They have all along in their official capacity as the local guardians of Education in Wasbister, endeavoured by every means in their power to promote the interests thereof intrusted to their care by their church, to whose constituted Superior Courts they are responsible for the due discharge of their duty; and they embrace this opportunity of rebutting the charges alleged against them as being wholly destitute of foundation, except in the imagination of the writer of the letter in question. Such charges, so made, they regard as highly offensive; and such animadversions as altogether uncalled for; indicating a bitterness of spirit very unkind, and opposed to all Christian charity.

“It was known to the Court that for some time past certain parties in the district were dissatisfied, for reasons best known to themselves, with the teacher, and the Court had tried to find out the causes of the dissatisfaction, in a quiet and private way, owing to the extreme difficulty and delicacy of the case. It did not appear that there was sufficient ground to take public action, as no complaint had been lodged in due form, and as the Court had reason to believe that the people generally were satisfied with him – some of them having privately expressed their strong attachment to him, and stating that they would consider it a hardship if they should lose his services.

“The Deacons’ Court think it due to Mr Bruce to state further, that never at any time has anything been alleged – even by those who are opposed to him – detrimental to his moral character in the slightest degree; but that, on the contrary, all the people, without exception so far as known to the Court, cherish feelings of the greatest respect towards him, and regard him as a man of quiet and modest behaviour, inoffensive kind and obliging in his manner, attentive to his duties, and noted for his integrity and uprightness.

“Further, the Deacons’ Court agreed unanimously to have this minute published, with a view, if possible, to put a stop to the offensive and painful course conduct pursued by the anonymous author the letter referred to, being firmly persuaded that such communications are calculated to do great injury to morality by tending to stir up and foment strife and discord in the district.”


1870 November 23 Orkney Herald

EDUCATION IN ROUSAY.

To the Editor of the “Orkney Herald.”

SIR, – I see in your last impression an account of a meeting of our Deacons’ Court, with the minute that was unanimously adopted at said meeting.

It would appear by the minute that the statements of my letter, which appeared in the Herald of 26th ult., are without foundation, and that the people generally are satisfied with the teacher. As a matter of fair play, I ask to be allowed to state that at the meeting referred to – which was a public one, including not only the congregation, but every one who was interested in the education of the district – there were eight individuals, or thereby, who attended from Wasbister; and of this number there was only one who was satisfied with the teacher, and, I believe, that he has no children attending the school.

It would appear by the minute that no complaint had been lodged in due form. I would ask in what form will the Court accept a complaint? Were there not parties at the meeting in question prepared to lodge complaints, and who were refused a hearing after having been invited there to do so? Have not some of the elders lodged complaints? Why, sir, the Court refused to accept of any complaint. Concerning my letter, I defy any one to contradict any statement in it.

Sir, it must be people who have no interest in the teacher who are so satisfied with him. With regard to the people being deceived, they were assuredly so, for they understood, and so did the office-bearers in the district, that the teacher was to leave at Martinmas, and all were not a little astonished when told that this was not to be.

That part of the minute which has been published, and the decision arrived at, is said to run counter; but hoping to see the minutes in full in next week’s Herald, and also a correct account of the meeting that has been so much commented on in Rousay. I am, &c.,        F.

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[NOTE. – We have two letters on this subject, but unless the writers choose to adhibit their names to their communications, we cannot give them publicity. The decision arrived at by the meeting referred to in the foregoing letter, and published in our columns, bore simply to the decision, with some of the reasons influencing thereto; it did not profess to be a report of the proceedings. We may now say that the proper course to pursue is to lodge a complaint with the Presbytery. The columns of a newspaper, whatever these may be as regards a Parish School supported by national funds, are not the proper place in which to rectify abuses – should such exist – in the management of a Free Church School, whose managers, being accountable to the superior Courts of the Church, and these only, renders it as private as had it been the property of one individual. – Ed. O. H.]


1870 December 14 Orkney Herald

EDUCATION IN ROUSAY

To the Editor of the “Orkney Herald.”

SIR, – In the last impression of the Orkney Herald, I noticed a letter, signed “Neil P. Rose,” purporting to give an account of the meeting of the Rousay Free Church Deacons’ Court, which, as intimated, was open to everyone interested in the education of the district of Wasbister. Mr Rose states in this letter that a respectable elder of the United Presbyterian Church asked permission to make a statement. As there was no elder of the United Presbyterian Church present but myself, would you allow me space in your valuable paper to make a few observations on some of Mr Rose’s assertions. When I stood up and asked permission to make a statement, Mr Rose did not say that he was sorry it was not according to order to allow it, although this is what he would have the public to believe. The real facts are these. After the Court was constituted, the minutes of former meetings read, and the object of the present meeting stated, the Moderator said they were now prepared to hear any complaint or statement any party had to make, and sat down. He rose again, and stated that parties bringing forward a complaint against the teacher would need to be very guarded; it had to be against his moral character or his efficiency as a teacher; and after making a few other remarks, he again sat down. At this stage I stood up, and had scarcely said “Moderator,” when Mr Rose, in a very dignified tone, said, “You have no standing here. You are not a member of the Free Church. You will not be heard.” Then I was at the painful necessity of reminding him that this was in direct opposition to his statement “that the Court was prepared to hear any complaint or statement any party had to make.” I also said he was not the Court; he was only the Moderator; and it was not for him to decide whether I should get a hearing or not; let it be decided by the Court. Mr Rose then asked me if I was prepared to give in what I might have to say in writing, to which I replied that I was quite prepared. The Moderator then put it to the vote, when three members of the Court resident in the district of Wasbister voted to take in my statement, two, also, of the Sourin district voted to receive my statement, three declined to vote, and four voted not to hear what I had to say, nor to take in a written statement.

Now, Mr Editor, I would ask, in the name of all that is serious, Where did Mr Rose get the number of seven that he asserts in his letter voted against receiving my statement, out of a court of thirteen, he himself being included? I challenge Mr Rose to give the names of these seven men; and, if he cannot, I demand that he withdraw his assertion.

Now, sir, Mr Rose likes to talk a great deal about what he has done for the school in Wasbister, and that the majority of families belongs to the Free Church. On this I might merely say, “Let another praise thee, and not thine own mouth;” but I can assert that the majority of children attending the school at present does not belong to Free Church families. Mr Rose, in his letter, wants the public to believe that the quarterly fees only amount to £2 in the year. This statement is clearly refuted by his own letter. He says the average attendance is thirty-five to forty. I shall take the lower number. Thirty-five at 1s. per quarter is £1 15s.; and as the school is taught for nine months in the year, the fees will amount to £5 5s., a goodly sum above that stated by Mr Rose.

Any unprejudiced person can see at a glance what a bad effect the suppression of the truth must have on the minds of those who are unacquainted with the temporal circumstances of the people. So far as I can learn, the salary is not one bit less than when Mr Linklater taught the school, to the satisfaction of all parties. There was no noise then with Mr Rose about getting a certificated teacher, the small amount of school fees, or the driblet of stated salary. The opinion conveyed by the letter of the Free Church minister is that most of the families in Wasbister are so miserably poor that they cannot pay the small fees usually charged. So far as my knowledge goes there are no children going to the school but whose parents or masters are able to pay the fees, with the exception of one or two. Mr Rose again tries to make the public believe that all the Established Church people, and many of other denominations, are satisfied with the teacher. In answer to this, I can affirm, on the personal declaration of the parties themselves, that it is not so. The majority of the parents and guardians of children attending the school are not satisfied with the teacher, and it was the general belief in the district that he was to leave at Martinmas last.

As to the compliment Mr Rose pays me of being a respected elder of the United Presbyterian Church, his opinion of myself weighs very little in my estimation, and I throw it overboard as a piece of mere flattery. The praises bestowed on my departed father, and the blandishments heaped on my uncle, may sound very sweetly in the ears of some; but let them be read alongside a plain, unvarnished account of the treatment their sons received that day at the public meeting in the Free Church, and the worth of such glowing compliments will be very much diminished.

My father was not an egotist, like Mr Rose, who boasts of being the largest contributor to the funds of the school; but this I can say, that he did more for the school in Wasbister than Mr Rose and all his Deacons’ Court, with the exception of one or two.

A competent and energetic teacher would find numerous and willing supporters in the district of Wasbister, though the treatment of some of the “powers that be,” and the offensive letter of Mr Rose, have cooled the affections of many, and diminished their interests in the school while under its present management. I am sorry that I am thus compelled to write, but the justification of my own conduct in the eyes of the public demanded that I should not remain silent. Hoping you will give this a place in your first impression. – I am, &c., JOHN GIBSON. Langskaill, Rousay. 10th December 1870.

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To the Editor of the “Orkney Herald.”

SIR, – The letters which have appeared in the Orkney Herald under the signature “F.” seem greatly to have annoyed the Rev. N. P. Rose; but I hope, after his deliverance of the 28th ult., that he will feel more at ease.

He designates my last letter as “ungrammatical, unintelligible, and absurd.” This may be so. He seems, however, along with the rest of the community, to have been able to discover its true meaning; and, therefore, without entering into a controversy upon the point, I would simply ask him whether he forgot or failed to discover the grammatical blunders which appeared in that very charitable letter of his to Mr Learmonth which went the round of the papers a short time ago? I trust in future he will rectify his own mistakes before presuming to remark on mine. He speaks of the definition I gave of a public meeting of the Deacons’ Court being based on ignorance. I gave no definition farther than I referred to the “ignorant” intimation that was given from the pulpit of the Free Church on the Sunday previous to the day of meeting, an intimation which included not only the congregation but everyone who was interested in education in Wasbister. Does Mr Rose think that nobody is interested in education in Wasbister save and except Free Church people? If he can prove this, he is justified in the steps he has taken; if not, then it was “ignorance” on his part to call a meeting of the Deacons’ Court, including, as he himself admits, all parties interested, and when these parties came forward to back out like a coward, under the silly pretence – as will be afterwards shown – that he did not mean what he said. Sir, it will be clearly seen from the following statement of his office-bearers, and other intelligent people who heard the intimation, what it was:-

“Having heard Mr Rose’s intimation of a meeting of Deacons’ Court, to be held in the church on Monday the 31st October, regarding the school in Wasbister, we certify that we understood and believed that the meeting was to be public, and one at which any person interested in the school might be present and take part. If this was not intended, we cannot understand why the announcement was made in the general terms it was, everybody being invited to attend who was interested in the education of the district. – (Signed)

“John Craigie, Elder.
“Hugh Craigie, Elder.
“James Inkster.
“David Gibson.
“John Inkster, Upper Cogar.”

In addition to this, I would ask Mr Rose if the respected elder of the Established Church who was present could not comprehend an intimation? Apparently he took the same view of it, and considered himself warranted thereby to attend; and I believe if he had not been included in the intimation he would not have attended. In fact, every person who heard the intimation, so far as I can learn, understood it in the same way. So much for the intimation. Now a word or two about the meeting.

You have heard one side of the story. I crave your indulgence while I state the facts. After the meeting was constituted, and the minutes of the last meeting read and approved, the Moderator said they were now prepared to hear any statement any party had to make about their teacher, and to dispose of the same. But mark what followed. The first who rose to speak was an elder of the U. P. Church, and an interested party; but, before he got out the word Moderator, he was interrupted by the Chairman, who did not tell him, as he would have the public believe, that he was sorry it was not according to form to allow it. What he said was, “You have no standing here. You are not in connection with the Free Church, and therefore you will not be heard.” The elder in question told Mr Rose that he was not the Deacons’ Court, but their Moderator, and asked him to put it to the Court to see whether he would be heard. On being asked by the Moderator if he would lodge his complaint in writing, he answered in the affirmative; and the Court would have received it but for the Moderator, who seemed to claim two votes. I would ask Mr Rose what his reason was for not hearing this elder’s complaint, and for not allowing him to table the same in a formal way, after he had attended in terms of Mr Rose’s own intimation? The next who rose to speak was Robert Gibson, jun., this notable offender, who has caused the Moderator so much trouble by being the author, as he supposes, of these offensive letters! What did he say that was so rude and highly insulting? It amounted to a declaration that he was not there as an intruder upon the Deacons’ Court of the Free Church, but by the invitation of the minister, and he hoped the Moderator would make an apology to parties brought there through his intimation. This, however, he refused to do, on the ground that his intimation included none but Free Church people. The Moderator and Court were thus brought into collision, when after a great deal of angry discussion about the intimation, the Moderator said that, in the absence of a written intimation, he might have included other than Free Church people, but that he did not mean to do so. Thereupon, Robert Gibson, jun., told him that the public could not be accountable for his mistakes, and that it was his duty to apologise. When he was told by the Moderator that he would have to use extreme measures to put him out, he (Mr Gibson) at once said that he would not put him to the trouble, for he would walk out himself, at the same time advising the Moderator to be more careful in future in making his intimations.

Sir, this meeting of the Deacons’ Court was a pure sham; even the description given of it by Mr Rose contradicts itself. He says he summoned all parties to appear for their interests; but see how their interests were respected. Why, sir, the majority of Free Church people were disgusted at the affair, and shocked to see their minister trying to vindicate himself at the expense of their common sense. Mr Rose admits that there were rumours of dissatisfaction with the teacher, and that the result of their private investigation was that the teacher was to leave at the end of the year. He says that there was not sufficient ground for the Deacons’ Court to proceed any farther. In this far we are agreed; for the Court and the people were satisfied with the result of the investigation, and I believe there would have been less fuss about it if Mr Rose had not assumed to himself the authority which belonged to the Court, inasmuch as he told one of his office-bearers that the teacher was not to go away, after they had decided, and he agreed to the contrary. But for this private meeting, the people were resolved to petition the Deacons’ Court for another teacher; but they soon found that the meeting was a sham, and that they were “sold” again. How very different the present state of matters from what existed formerly, when, instead of this high-handed patronage, the late respected Mr Ritchie called a meeting of the Deacons’ Court in the school, and appointed a committee of men out of the different denominations in the district to watch over the interests of education, and to report to the Deacons’ Court.

I cannot but notice the reference that Mr Rose makes about education in Egilshay and Frotoft. I would advise him to take the beam out of his own eye, and then he may see things more clearly. The description of the two respectable young men is entirely out of place. Suffice to say that they please their employers. Is Mr Rose vain enough to imagine that the people in Egilshay and Frotoft cannot represent their own case without his interference? With regard to what he has said about the school in Wasbister, I expected nothing else. Mr Rose’s misrepresentations, and the tendency of his letter, as everyone can see at a glance, is to damage the interests of education. For instance, he quotes the school fees at £2. How absurd! Considering the number of scholars, who, with very few exceptions, are all able to pay, the fees are worth more than double that sum.

Sir, I do not know what the worthy donors who aid us in supporting the school will think when they see the mean description given of it by Mr Rose. He says that he has done his best to promote the education of Wasbister. I believe that he stands alone in this opinion. He claims honour in connection with it. It is well that he takes it to himself, for I believe that it will be long in coming from any other quarter. With regard to the manner in which he speaks of Robert Gibson, jun., I suppose that neither he nor anyone else will think much about it when they know the quarter from which it comes.

Apologising for occupying so much of your valuable space, – I am, &c., – F.

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TEACHER (CERTIFICATED), WANTED for the FREE CHURCH SCHOOL
of ROUSAY to enter upon his duties at the MAY TERM. He must be
qualified to teach the Branches usually taught in the Free Church
Schools, and, also, superintend the Sabbath School of Wasbister.
Average attendance, 35. Emoluments, about £20. Fees, about
£3, but to a suitable Teacher might be increased. There is a
Dwelling House, with 1¼ Acres of Land attached.
Applications, with Testimonials, to be lodged with
the Rev. N. P. ROSE, Free Church Manse, Rousay,
on or before the 14th day of January, 1871.


1870 December 21 Orkney Herald

EDUCATION IN ROUSAY.

To the Editor of the “Orkney Herald.”

SIR I did not expect to be put to further trouble in connection with the above subject. It appears that two opponents have now taken the field, and there are internal marks of a presumptive kind that a third is at work pulling the wires behind – John Gibson, Langskaill, “F.” alias Robert Gibson, jun., as generally believed, and somebody present without a name. Rumour is busy as to his propria persona, and already a bird of the air has set the secret abroad. Without meaning offence, we may observe that while Mr John Gibson may have education sufficient for his position in life, the people of Rousay generally will no doubt believe him quite innocent in the composition of the letter which bears his signature, at least they will be apt to suppose he got some assistance; and as for “F.” alias Mr Robert, we have positive evidence of his powers in attempting to write English, which we may produce, if necessary, to show by way of contrast what marvellous strides in improvement he has made of late. Surely he has been at school, and no wonder though he should wish another teacher in Wasbister. What a boon if only he could secure the services of the wire-puller who has advanced him so speedily forward!

However, in sober earnest, it is truly humbling to find men professing godliness taking pleasure in abusing their neighbours – men who should know and practice better things. Mr John Gibson is an elder in the U.P. Church, and because he chooses to disturb the office-bearers of another church, and is reasonably checked for his doing so, he grows angry and rushes to the public press in the most reckless style to pour forth invective against them, and particularly against their Moderator, acting in discharge of solemn duty. I put it to him, could anything be more senseless? Has he no regard for the office and character of a minister of the gospel who never to his knowledge did Mr Gibson any harm? I can appeal to those present at the Deacons’ Court meeting to prove that I treated him with every civility and kindness; and in my published letter purposely withheld his name as he, though out of order, was not uncivil. Why then such an ebullition of anger, and such a tirade of abuse? Such a course does not become well a ruler in the Christian Church. Had he been unreasonably provoked, his moral indignation might justly have been aroused; but even then he ought to restrain his temper, and be at least respectful towards fellow-rulers in the Church. How much calculated his conduct is to do injury to the cause of truth. Ordinary people will be shrewd enough to discern the danger of having such a ruler to deal with, in proportion as they value their own character. They may not be well versed in Church forms, but they can see who are most worthy to be entrusted with their good name – whether one who can without provocation or right reason speak and write as he has done of the Deacons’ Court, or those quiet and peaceful men who are very careful in dealing with character, and who cannot allow their teacher or any other person under their care to be injured without cause shown – and who keep to the laws and rules of their Church. Mr Robert Gibson, jun., knows to what an amount of trouble they were put in investigating a famous case against the Sabbath-School, in which he was the accuser; how they patiently waited for hours sifting evidence till he was satisfied, and, though the case broke down, he was the first to acquiesce in the decision, and declare his satisfaction. One would have thought after the dear-bought experience of that occasion he would have been more careful in future. But some men won’t learn even from experience. They seem to grow more foolish. I ought perhaps to have given a short account of the origin of the opposition to our teacher. It began, so far as I have been able to trace, with Mr Robert. The first hint that ever reached my ear was from a gentleman who is connected with him, in his confidence. It was given as “from young Robert Gibson.” This occurred some time before the case above alluded to, but I see an odd connection between them. I will not give that gentleman’s name till I see, but will reserve it meanwhile. Before that time, I never heard of any complaints. Mr Gibson’s own minister assisted the two annual examinations preceding, and declared his satisfaction with the school. Since then there have been two examinations by members of the Presbytery, who spoke in favourable terms, reported satisfactorily, and passed the usual schedule and certificate to the Committee. On no occasion was fault found, except by young Robert of Langskaill. He set himself to judge not only teacher and Deacons’ Court, but also the Presbytery, and he passed sentence that they were all wrong – all banded together in a foul plot to retard education in Rousay. Everything else – ploughing, sheep-farming, of course, house-building, &c., &c., – he saw advancing in Wasbister (always excepting education), and, as he had passed the verdict, it must be law to all the world!

When the Deacons’ Court seemed slow in acting on his law, he called them to account, issued a proclamation in the Herald, violently accusing them for being so dilatory in their duty, and grows actually wild with anger when, being met, they decline to ruled by his imperial authority. They may allege that, being Free Churchmen, they are not under his jurisdiction; but what is it to him whether they be so or not? Must not his law be obeyed? I am not going to follow the good cousins through the mud-pool into which they have plunged themselves. I mean wait a little, till the wire-puller at present hiding behind the scene is brought out, when I have something say which may amuse and interest the people in these dark winter days, and throw some new light on that “uncharitable letter’’ spoken of; for it has, like most other things, a history of its own. If things should come out in connection with it, I will not be to blame. I have perhaps been long enough a convenient refuge, if not even a kind of sacrifice, for my excellent neighbours. When men can insult one by returning evil for good, they can hardly claim excess of charity. Before I am done with that letter, whose grammar offends learned scholars in Edinburgh and in Rousay, and which was happily buried (so I thought), the wire-puller may wish that Mr .Robert had not become a resurrectionist.

As Mr John Gibson has been manly enough give his name, I will at once come to an issue with him and his letter; and I challenge the truth of his statements, and will bring proof. As to the vote, my statement is based on the record as taken down at the time, and since read at a regular meeting of Deacons’ Court, and unanimously approved of as correct. His allegation about the school fees is not true. He speaks at random. I got my information from the only possible source. The following will help the public decide. It corroborates the truth as given in my letter:-

——————–

“ Wasbister, Dec. 17th, 1870.

“REVEREND SIR, – l perceive that Mr John Gibson, Langskaill, in his letter of the 10th inst., would make the school fees amount to a large sum; but I beg to produce the simple facts. I give the annual amount for the last three years:- In 1868, the whole sum was £3 0s 6d; in 1869, £2 0s 6d; and in 1870, £2 18s. Average for three years, £2 13s. The lowest amount that I received since I came to this locality was in 1865, viz., £1 16s 6d. – I am, &c., – (Signed) “J. C. BRUCE.”

——————–

Surely the above will satisfy all concerned that the fact as given in my letter is in accordance with truth. It is not fairly quoted in John Gibson’s letter. What a noise has been made by the Messrs Gibson and friends about this matter! Quiet Free Church people have been assailed in public shops, and on the highway, and nasty insinuations thrown out against their minister on this trifling point. John Gibson could not apparently, or would not, comprehend the meaning of the expression “£2 or so.” He wished to have it £2. How like him! He has much to learn about the courtesies of literary life. We will have him sent to school when a new teacher comes.

The above may be taken as specimens of all the other mendacious and bold assertions in his letter; and now I call on him, if he has any proper feeling, to withdraw these statements and apologise for being so rash in writing or endorsing such letter as that of the 10th inst. I abide by my letter as correct, and challenge him to contradict any of its statements. He may if he chooses, indulge in abusive invective. It will be as harmless on me as a summer shower, and may help to make the barren places green. I have no design to injure the school; very far from it. I am glad to say that it is in a most thriving condition. I believe it was never better attended. I do not know whether the majority of scholars belong to the Free Church or not, for I never thought of asking, and I never made any distinction in my visits to it.

I am sorry that the house is not in such thorough repair as we could wish, from the want of funds. I am glad to think, however, the people are in a thriving condition; for as there will be considerable repairs needed soon, and the expenses of a new election of teacher, we will have more confidence in making an appeal for the needful. They know us too well to believe that the Deacons’ Court would neglect the school. My fear is that the clamour now raised so senselessly may do us injury. However, we shall strive to get the best possible man to fill the office of teacher. It was necessary, in advertising to be correct in stating emoluments, because we become responsible to that amount. We state simply the truth – impugn it who likes. I wish we had a much larger salary to offer, so as to induce well trained candidates to come forward. We Free Church people mortally detest that system which is said to prevail in certain quarters of promising a larger sum, and paying our public servants with a smaller. We have not as yet taken lessons on that subject, and we do not care to be initiated into its mysteries. As to “F.” alias Robert Gibson, jun. (always till he denies the fact), his remarks are unworthy of notice. Indeed it is a wonder, Mr Editor, you were not afraid of inserting them in your paper. Many doubtless beyond Rousay will be curious to get a sight of him. He is not particularly well up to writing good English, and we are wondering how he contrived to put his last production together. Was there helping hand engaged with him? We seem to see a well-known form through a thin veil at work. Possibly we are mistaken. But he seems to have a familiar look. Have we not seen that hand held out, ah! how differently! Can it be so? are we fighting with men of straw, while the real foe hides like snake in the grass? Let us wait. Truth, like murder, will out: and when the thunderbolt comes down it may sweep all before it. It is a dangerous game for persons who dwell in glass houses to throw stones.

In closing, it may amuse the curious to observe that Mr John Gibson, in acknowledging “F’s.” father to be his uncle, unwittingly reveals the real author, and this to me tells tale that I am not likely to forget. At our next interview I may have a question to ask. Meanwhile, I leave him the fact for reflection, and as he seems to resent my calling him a respected elder, which in good faith, I could then do, I promise not to insult him on this score again. But I would like to know what to call him? Let me offer him an advice, which has the sanction of apostolic authority, and it is this – That he study henceforth to be quiet, and mind his own business. We Free Church people would be specially glad to find that he follows it, and we hope in future he will make himself better acquainted with our forms of procedure in our Church Courts ere he ventures again to befool himself, and go on a wild-goose chase as he did in coming to interrupt us. At the same time we are ready, when he withdraws his abusive letter, and makes a satisfactory apology, to hold out the olive-branch of peace, with a view to bring about harmony between two neighbouring denominations, which we regret has been rudely and foolishly broken. Our higher Church Courts will see to the vindication of our character. We feel perfectly easy on the matter. – I am &c., – NEIL P. ROSE.


1870 December 28 Orkney Herald

EDUCATION IN ROUSAY

To the Editor of the “Orkney Herald.”

Sir, – I have been not a little amused by the perusal of Mr Rose’s last letter to the Editor of the Orkney Herald. He seems to think that I have been helped in the preparation of my letter; but I beg to assure him I am the real author of the letter which bears my signature, and I must not forget to thank him for the compliment he pays me, though it may not have been intended as such.

Mr Rose’s communication requires scarcely any reply from me; as, with the exception of the question of school fees, none of my statements are called in question. Regarding this matter, Mr Rose asserts I spoke at random; but that I did not write at random may be seen from my letter of 10th inst., in which I took Mr Rose’s lowest average of scholars, also the lowest quarterly fee, and. multiplying these together, I found it amounted to the sum stated in my letter. I of course did not know what sum Mr Bruce received until I saw his letter in last Herald, but the question is not the amount be receives; but what the school fees are worth. Mr Bruce may teach – or probably I should say attempt to do so – half the children for nothing for all I know. This does not in the least affect my statement. Mr Rose talks about a mud pool, but he would seem to have got in “deep mire where there is no standing.” He suggests that I should be sent to school when the new teacher arrives. Well, to this I shan’t object, provided Mr Rose becomes a fellow pupil, as by the time the teacher has got me to comprehend what “£2 or so” means, I hope Mr Rose will have learned what authority belongs to the moderator of a Deacons’ Court.

Mr Rose states that I acknowledge “F.’s” father to be my uncle – how smart! “F.’s” father for aught that I know may be Mr Rose’s grandfather! I neither “ken nor care.” Mr Rose offered me a very good advice, and I took it kindly. I will not presume to advise him, but rather entreat him to study another passage, having the same apostolic authority, and henceforth “shun profane and vain babblings, for they will increase unto more ungodliness.” – I am, &c.         John Gibson. Langskaill, Rousay, 23d Dec. 1870.

——————————

To the Editor of the” Orkney Herald.”

Sir, – The letters which appeared on the question of Education in Rousay in the Orkney Herald of the 14th inst., appears have completely finished Mr Rose, and left him no foot upon which stand. At all events, his ammunition must have run short, else he would surely have met his opponents in a more manly way than he has done. His insinuation that I had assistance in the composition of my last letter is only another specimen of the dodging to which he is prepared to stoop, if in any way he may wriggle out of – to him – an awkward fix. Finished on all hands, shouts “revenge,” and since he cannot hit your correspondent, with a cowardly side thrust he attempts to strike at some other gentleman, who he imagines to have, through a thin veil, seen at work writing my letter. I have now to inform him that my letters are all my own, and have been prepared without assistance from any person, and this I do that all may know that the individual, whoever he may chance to be, so wantonly attacked by Mr Rose, is quite innocent of at least this heinous sin. Having said this much, I cannot close without expressing sympathy for my opponent in his present position; not a very honourable one, certainly, for a man of his cloth to occupy, and as Mr Rose has failed to refute any of my statements, and as I suppose this controversy may now be considered ended, I again subscribe myself, yours, &c., – F. – Rousay, 23d Dec. 1870.


Categories
In Print

Newsprint – 1869

[Despite the recent stinging editorial concerning the Rev. Neil Patrick Rose – the Rousay minister declined putting pen to paper in reply…..]


1869 January 5 Orkney Herald

IMPROVED POSTAL COMMUNICATION BETWEEN KIRKWALL AND ROUSAY. – We understand that, through the successful representations of Mr Dundas to the Postmaster-General, it has now been arranged that Rousay shall enjoy the benefit of postal communication three times a-week. Our worthy member has shown thus early that the statements he made as to the interest which he would continue to take in the islands were not mere talk or electioneering devices.

THE WEATHER. – The weather of late has been very stormy and changeable, high winds and severe frost following each other in rapid succession. A covering of snow on the ground is considered the most seasonal weather at the Christmas and New Year times, but instead of this we had stiff gales of sou’-east wind. From the number of disastrous wrecks which have occurred, the weather appears to have been much more severe on the Atlantic and on the southern coasts of England than on the North Sea.


1869 January 19 Orkney Herald

The smack-rigged boat “Osprey” is now plying as a Packet between Kirkwall and Rousay. – Peter Stickler, Master.


1869 February 16 Orkney Herald

PROLONGED AND VIOLENT GALE. – The islands were visited last week by a tract of stormy weather, which culminated in a violent gale from the nor’-west on Saturday night and Sunday. Up to a late hour on Sunday night the wind blew with all the force of a hurricane, and people who ventured out to church during the day had some difficulty in making headway in places where they were exposed to the swirl of the frequent gusts. In some instances ladies were whirled around like tops, and hapless persons of both sexes were occasionally thrown to the ground. Several of the gusts seemed almost to equal in violence the great hurricane of last year. Skylights and other windows, cans and slate-roofs suffered damage to some extent in all parts of the town. On Saturday the smack Elizabeth, belonging to the Messrs Heddle of Kirkwall, snapped some chains when anchored at Aikerness in Evie, and was run ashore on the sand. After discharging part of her cargo, it was expected that she would be got off again without difficulty. No serious casualty, so far as we have yet heard, occurred in this quarter during the course of the gale.


1869 March 2 The Orcadian

FEARFUL STORMS AND SHIPWRECK. – Since Wednesday last we have been visited by very severe weather indeed. Strong and continuous gales from S. to N.W., accompanied with rain, sleet, and snow. On Saturday morning from about 2 to 5 o’clock it blew a fearful hurricane – the heaviest we have experienced for years – luckily it was low water or doubtless serious damage might have occurred in the Harbour [at Kirkwall]. Slates and chimney pots were flying about in all directions, and at a farm in the neighbourhood a stable took wings altogether. Through the day the squalls continued very heavy, with sleet and accompanied by two or three peals of thunder at no great distance. Sunday and yesterday have set in with a real fall of snow, and now when we go to press, the weather had moderated down so that mails may be looked for as we have had none since the 24th ult., neither has there been any communication with the North Isles since that date…..

[The shipwreck mentioned in the headline occurred on the rocks at Breckness near Stromness which were …..’strewed with the wreck of a vessel that had, during the hurricane gone to pieces there and the gravest fears were felt for the safety of the crew, whom no human power could have rendered assistance to on such a coast and in such fearful weather. The vessel proved to be the barque “Clifton Hall” of Sunderland, 354 tons register’…..]

[Orkney Herald]

ROUSAY. – The communion was observed here on Sabbath last, when the Rev. Mr Reid ably assisted Mr McLellan on the occasion. Mr Reid preached on Saturday and also on Monday.

POSTAL COMMUNICATION. – We have now an additional post every week, but we think that the next thing which we would require would be a money-order office, which is much needed in the island, and we have not the slightest doubt but that would get it if a petition were sent up. The addition in mail-communication has been obtained by our energetic representative, Mr Dundas, who attended most faithfully to the petition.

The weather here for the past few months has been remarkably mild, with the exception of a few days of rough rainy weather.


1869 March 9 Orkney Herald

PROLONGED AND SEVERE SNOW-STORM. – The snow-storm, which had begun at the opening of last week, continued up to Friday, with occasional pauses between the heavy falls. The greatest quantities of snow generally fell over-night, and each new morning showed a fresh coating of considerable death. People went knee-deep in the snow on country roads, and some “fans” (as they are locally termed) reached to the top of field fences in places where there had been a swirling drift…..


1869 March 16 Orkney Herald

ARRIVAL OF LAPWINGS. – A large flock of lapwings, or teeacks, which seemed to have just arrived from their appearance in the vicinity of Kirkwall early last week. Although snow was on the ground there was a pleasant touch of spring in the familiar plaint of these frequenters of Orcadian fields and moors.

CATTLE FAMINE IN ORKNEY. – The want of fodder for cattle is now and has been for some time severely felt in Orkney, and especially in the North Isles. Many of the smaller tenants have been under the necessity of giving their oats to the cattle to keep them alive, and in some islands, such as Shapinshay, stack-yards are getting quite exhausted. At the Ayre Mills of late there has been a great demand for sacks of husks or seed-shells, which have gone in boat-loads to different islands. The circumstance that these husks are boiled along with seaweed to form food for the cattle shows the miserable plight to which many are reduced. Unless dealers come forward and clear off the cattle at once, there is great danger that a number of the poor animals will perish through sheer starvation. From the kind of food they have been receiving deterioration has already to some extent taken place. The prolonged snow and frost, coming so late in the season, have helped to make matters worse, covering up and checking the pasturage, which promised so well during the continuance of the mild weather.


1869 March 23 The Orcadian

ROUSAY – THE WEATHER. – During the winter months, on towards the middle of February, we had very fine weather, but in the month of January we never saw such a spring in the grass and turnips; but now it is all gone. Many of the farmers, owing to the winter, have saved nearly a fourth part of their fodder, that would have been spent had the winter been as rough as we have seen; and yet some of them will have enough to do to save their cattle and horses. Some have only three small stacks for 40 cattle and 8 horses, and no turnips at all.

FISHING. – The cod fishing has become a complete failure this season; this will be a hard year with many of our fishermen.

DEATHS. At Monsie, Rousay, on the 9th inst., Mr Wm. Sabistane, at an advanced age. This is only the second death in the parish (of Rousay and Egilshay) during the last five months.

[Agricultural labourer William Sabiston was born in 1802. Initially he and his wife Jane lived at Stirling, later moving up the hill in Quandale to Munsey with children, James, William, Mary, and Jane. After her husband’s death Jean made ends meet as a stocking knitter].


1869 March 30 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – WINTER IN SPRING. – We have been visited with a fearful snow storm for the past fortnight, accompanied by severe frosts. In consequence out-door work was at a perfect stand-still. The fans of snow in some places were of extraordinary height; but between the strength of the sun and the strong winds, it has nearly disappeared by this time. Fodder being in general very scarce throughout the island, the farmers are exceedingly glad that the pasture is making its appearance once more. If the snow had continued much longer some of the small farmers would have been under the necessity of disposing of their cattle to the first comer. Farmers are all now busy making preparations for seed time, which is hoped will commence in about two weeks if the weather be fine.


1869 April 6 The Orcadian

ROUSAY. – THE WEATHER. – The weather for the put two weeks has been favourable, and farming operations have been actively prosecuted. A good many of the smaller farmers are complaining for want of folder, and the want will be still more felt should the weather prove unfavourable throughout the month of April.

SCHOOL EXAMINATION – The Free Church School here. taught by Mr Bruce, was examined on Friday the 26 ult., by the Rev. Messrs Rose and Roy – the latter taking the chief part in the examination. A number of parents and others taking an interest in the young, were present. In English the reading and pronunciation was not so good as the spelling; and in arithmetic the senior class did not appear to advantage. By the kindness of Mrs Rose, a number of prizes was provided and distributed amongst the best scholars.

THE Communion was dispensed in the Free Church of Rousay on the 28th ult. The Rev. N. P. Rose, pastor of the congregation was ably assisted by the Rev. James Roy of Firth.

THE farmers are very busy preparing the soil for the precious seed. Some black oats have already been sown in the neighbouring island of Egilshay.

THE fishermen are also busy preparing their boats and apparelling for the approaching summer fishings.

DEATHS. At Ready-penny, Rousay, on the 31st ult., Mr John Clouston, parish beadle, aged 88 years.

[I have never heard of ‘Ready-penny’! According to the census of 1861 there was a John Clouston and his wife Mary living at ‘Leean’, now a ‘vanished house in the vicinity of Whitemeadows and Langskaill. Their marriage certificate tells us they were married on November 27th 1857. James, son of William Clouston and Jane Inkster, and living at Little Claybank, was 73 years of age when he married 59-year-old knitter Mary Flaws, daughter of James Flaws and Ellen Murray. She was living at ‘Little Lean’. The death of Mary was recorded in the columns of The Orcadian in the edition dated October 23rd 1869].


1869 April 13 The Orcadian

ROUSAY – WEATHER. – We have been visited these few days past with heavy showers of snow, and sleet, and rain, accompanied with high winds, which has brought the sowing to a stand-still for the present, and has put a stop to ploughing, especially where the ground is wet.

FISHING. – The fishermen in this island (with the exception of those who fish lobsters) have done little or nothing this season, so far, but we expect that the deficiency in the winter and spring fishing will be met by an ample supply in summer.

EDUCATION. – The state of education in some districts in this island is at present not in a very healthy state, and we are waiting anxiously for the passing of the education bill now before Parliament, in the hope that we may be benefitted by its provisions for in vain do we look for help from those in the island who have it in their power to supply their school with an efficient teacher. It may be thought people living in the far north should rest content if their children are taught to read a little, and more especially if they can be taught to spell a few difficult words; but, in these days of reform, we would fain aspire to a little reform in education.

[Orkney Herald]

ROUSAY. – Last week a new firthy boat arrived here. She was built in Wick for David Wood, [boat captain, Rusness], Weir.

The weather for the past week has been rough and rather reassuming a wintry appearance. But nevertheless some our farmers have been committing seed to the soil. Sowing has not become general in the island yet.

Our island has been visited with little or no disease during the past winter, only one death having occurred during that time.


1869 April 27 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – SOWING. – We have had a few days of very fine weather now. The farmers are all very busy putting the seed into the ground. Some of our farmers have got entirely through.

BRONCHITIS. – A great many of our inhabitants have been attacked with sore throats, and we are of opinion that it is contagious. This is just the worst season of the year for sickness of whatever kind.

[The Orcadian]

ROUSAY. WEATHER. – The weather these few days past has been fine and warm, but rather wet, which has impeded the sowing on wet soil. A few of our farmers are far advanced with sowing, and some are through with the oats, and have been sowing bere. The grass looks healthy, and is making rapid progress, and if the weather keeps good we expect very soon to hear no more complaints for want of meat for the cattle this season.


1869 May 4 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – We have had most delightful weather for the last eight days, scarcely to be surpassed in the middle of summer. The farmers, having got their oats into the soil, are taking the advantage of the fine weather by planting potatoes. Some of our farmers who had oats into the ground before the last fall of snow are very glad to see it making its appearance above ground.


1869 May 8 The Orcadian

ROUSAY. – The farmers are very busy planting potatoes. Bere sowing has also commenced. The weather is very cold and dry. Everything has withered for the last eight days by reason of so much frost. The hills were grey with snow on Thursday morning.

A ewe belonging to Mr Robert Sinclair, Swandell, presented its owner with four lambs a few days ago, which are all alive, and thriving well.


1869 June 1 Orkney Herald

THE WEATHER. – No improvement has as yet taken place in the weather. A cold north wind has continued to prevail almost without intermission during the entire month, completely neutralising the effect of the sun, and preventing the progress of vegetation. The grass and young braird are rapidly assuming a dried shrivelled appearance.


1869 June 19 The Orcadian

ROUSAY – COD FISHING. – Nothing has been done at the cod fishing during the winter, and it still continues in an unsatisfactory state. Our fishermen have sought both far and near and have found very little. The highest catch during the summer is scarcely three tons.

FARMING OPERATIONS. – Turnip sowing is near about over. Some of the turnip braird is looking well, notwithstanding the cold north winds and nipping frost. The wind has taken its stand so long at the North that we hardly expect it to blow from any other point of the compass for some time yet.

BIRTHS. – At Brough, Frotoft, Rousay, the wife of Mr John Mainland, farmer, of a son. [John Mainland was married to Margaret Craigie, Finyo. Their son was named after his father.]

At Whitemeadows, Wasbester, Rousay, the wife of Mr Hugh Marwick, fisherman, of a son. [Hugh Marwick was married to Mary Inkster, Innister. Their son was called James.]

At Quoys, Sourin, Rousay, on the 4th instant, the wife of Mr William Harrold, mason, of a daughter. [William Harrold was married to Betsy Marwick, Hanover. Their daughter was named after her mother. This family soon moved from Quoys to Blossom.]

At Digro, Sourin, Rousay, on the 12th inst., the wife of Mr James Leonard, music teacher, of a son. [James Leonard’s wife was Hannah Reid, Wasdale. Their son was christened Frederick Cunningham Leonard.]

At Langskaill, Wasbester, Rousay, on the 13th inst., the wife of Mr David Gibson, of a daughter. [David’s wife was Anne Craigie Sinclair, Newhouse, Frotoft. Their daughter was christened Mary Sinclair Gibson.]


1869 June 22 Orkney Herald

THE WEATHER. – During the week there has been in some districts showers of rain, and in others showers of sleet and snow. While the sun shines the atmosphere is comfortably warm, but the mild genial weather so necessary for bringing forward the crops has not yet put in appearance. A day or two of good Scotch mist followed by warm sunshine would be very acceptable to most farmers.


1869 July 17 The Orcadian

THE DESTRUCTION OF OUR SEA BIRDS. – It is well that the public should be aware that the Act for the preservation of sea birds recently passed imposes a penalty for killing, wounding, or injuring any of them from the 1st April to the 1st of August; and that the general feeling in the county is so much against any act of this kind that the perpetrators will not have much chance of escape. We append the clause which specifies the kind of bird which fall under the scope of the act:- “That the words “sea birds” shall for all purposes of this act, be deemed to include the different species of auk, bonxie, Cornish cough, coulterneb, diver, eider duck, fulmar, gannet, grebe, guillemot, gull, kittiwake, loon, marrot [razor billed auk], merganser, murre, oyster catcher, petrel, puffin, razor bill, scout, sea mew, sea parrot, sea swallow, shearwater, shell drake, skua smew, solan goose, tarrock [young kittiwake], tern, tystey, and willock.”


1869 August 17 Orkney Herald

PLEASURE TRIP TO ROUSAY. – On Friday afternoon, shortly after two o’clock, the s.s. “Orcadia” left Kirkwall Harbour with a goodly number of pleasure-seekers on board, bound for the romantic island Rousay. Up to the hour of starting the day had been cloudy, with occasional showers, and as the barometer had a slightly downward tendency, many were detained from venturing afloat in the fear of being caught in a “Lammas spate.” But as the afternoon wore on the day improved, and by half-past 3 o’clock when, after a pleasant sail of an hour’s duration, the excursionists had been landed below the Parish Manse, the air was quite mild, and the mantle of mist which had during the forenoon shrouded the summit Kierfea Hill, floated away with the gentle breeze, leaving the whole clear, and affording an excellent “coigne of vantage” for viewing the surrounding islands. The passengers were speedily landed, when they proceeded to enjoy themselves, each according to his own fancy. Those who had friends in the island went to see them, but the great proportion proceeded to the lochs, and the top of Kierfea Hill. Some gentlemen, intent upon sport, had brought their fishing rods and baskets along with them, but we are not aware whether they made a particularly good fishing. Had guns been substituted for fishing rods, and game-bags for trout-baskets, even minus a pointer, there would have been little difficulty in making a “good hag.” The whole island is the property of Colonel Burroughs, H.M. 93d Highlanders, presently in India, and should no disease occur, the gallant Colonel may live in the prospect of enjoying some capital sport in the Rousay hills when he makes up his mind to visit his northern estates. Around the island there runs an excellent road, intersecting fields and farms of various extent, but all having the appearance of being well cultivated. Arriving at the top of Kierfea Hill, a splendid view presents itself – the whole islands stretching out on either side intersected by various firths and bays – as if a continent cut up by some majestic river. Far in the distance is seen Fair Isle, “the lonely Patmos of the North Sea,” where the admiral’s flagship of the Spanish Armada was wrecked; while nearer hand, reposing on the blue waters of the North Sea, are the islands of North Ronaldshay, Sanday, Westray, &c. On the other side is the mainland, bounded in one direction by the Hills of Hoy, while far in the distance large fleets of boats, studding the horizon, were seen hastening to the fishing grounds. The time allowed in the island was too short for strangers seeing all its beauties, but it is to be hoped Captain Robertson will make another afternoon’s excursion to its other side. By eight o’clock all were again on board, when the homeward voyage began. The band of the Its 0. A. V. having accompanied the excursionists, dancing commenced and was kept with much spirit until the vessel neared the quay, and by nine o’clock the passengers were safely landed having had excellent afternoon’s amusement.


1869 August 24 The Orcadian

Letter to the Editor.

SECTARIANISM IN ROUSAY.

Sir, – We have seen through the medium of your journal that Professor Martin has been preaching the churches of the various denominations throughout the country, by which it appears that the ministers of the Established Church in these parishes are men of a different stamp from ours.

As far as I can see, our Parish Minister has no influence in the island, with the exception of a few individuals who may be considered his own relatives. The little authority he has as Parish Minister he has been endeavouring to make to be felt by his conduct to Professor Martin when in this island a short time ago. I understand that the Professor took lodgings in Saviskaill, with the intention of stopping a week or two for the benefit of his health, and to favour the population with a few of his excellent and practical discourses, which to all ordinarily intelligent people are at once instructive and impressive.

Professor Martin, being in connection with the Established Church of Scotland, wrote the Parish Minister previous to, or immediately on his handing in the island, and we believe that the reply sent him was to the effect that he would give him the Established Church forenoon and evening, but that he was to preach in no other place of worship in the island – a condition which he knew the Professor was too unsectarian to accept.

Now, Sir, could anyone have thought that near the close of the nineteenth century there was still a man – much less a professed minister of the Gospel – belonging to any Protestant evangelical denomination capable of making such a miserable sectarian stipulation. Certainly it is difficult to imagine how any person possessing real Christianity, or who had any care for the spiritual welfare of others, could have done so; but so did the Parish Minister of Rousay, and so far as I know did it entirely on his own responsibility, not even consulting his session, who, l believe, were all opposed to such a step. I have no hesitation in affirming that Professor Martin would be gladly received by every individual in this parish, Established Churchmen not excepted, with the exception of the Parish Minister and perhaps a few of his family connections. I do hope that if the Professor should ever visit Orkney again he will spend a week or two with us whether the Parish Minister will or not, as I am of opinion that it was just a bit of spleen against dissenters which made him take such an arbitrary step.

No wonder that such a man could have pledged himself “with pleasure” to vote for a Tory Member of Parliament, before he even knew who the candidate was. – I am, &c., – A PARISHIONER


1869 September 14 Orkney Herald

THE WEATHER AND CROPS. – In the south the harvest is almost over, and is in the finest condition; whereas with us cutting will not become general for eight or ten days yet. With the exception of an occasional day, such as Sunday last, the weather for a considerable time has been all that farmers could desire, and in consequence the crops which in general are heavy, have of late begun rapidly to ripen. Should the weather continue moderate for the next few weeks, and allow operations to be prosecuted with regularity, we certainly have the prospect of a large and an abundant harvest.


1869 September 21 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY – EVANGELISTIC MEETING. – On Thursday we had a large meeting in the Free Church, including people from all parts of the island, and some also from Egilshay. The services were opened by the Rev. John McLellan, of the U.P. Church, and he was followed by the Rev. Mr Ferguson, of Leven Free Church, who delivered a very able and impressive discourse on the nature and necessity of holiness, and was listened to with close and rapt attention. We observed some moved to tears under Mr Ferguson’s powerful message. The services were closed by the Rev. Mr Rose. Everyone felt refreshed and edified. Such visits of brethren from the south are most acceptable, and had it not been the season of harvest we doubt not but the church would have been more crowded, “How good and pleasant a thing it is to see brethren dwell together in unity,” striving together in the work of the Lord. This is as it should be.


1869 October 5 Orkney Herald

WEATHER AND CROPS. – The wet and stormy weather of the past week for some days entirely stopped all out-door operations. Harvest work is still far behind, and a few weeks of dry weather is very much needed to enable farmers to secure their crops in safely.

HARVESTING CORN BY MACHINERY. – The following is the expense incurred on the Earl of Zetland’s farm at Aske [just outside the North Yorkshire market town of Richmond] during the late harvest. The reaper has been used on the farm for several years, has back-delivery action, and was manufactured by a local implement maker. The whole quantity cut was 80 acres – 25 wheat, average crop; 9 barley, full average; and the rest oats, light, with the exception of 10 acres, fair average crop. The whole was cut in nine days. The cost per day was £2 12s, as under:-

Nine women binding, at 2s per day – 18s
Two men binding, at 2s 6d per day – 5s
Three men stoking, at 2s 6d per day – 7s 6d
One man raking by hand, at 2s 6d per day – 2s 6d
Two men with machine, at 2s 6d per day – 5s
Allowance of 8 men instead of beer, at 6d per day – 4s
Two horses, at 3s 6d per day – 7s
Wear and tear and oil – 3s
[Total] – £2 12 0

Nine days, at 52s per day, £23 8s, the cost of the 80 acres, averages 5s 10d per acre. Four horses were employed for the reaper, each pair working half a day, and being employed in other work the remaining half. The hours of labour on this farm are – for men, from 7am to 5pm, with one hour for dinner; for women, from 8am to 5pm, with one hour for dinner. The three men were not actually stooking all day, but were engaged in removing the corn in front of the reaper before the arrival of the women in the morning, all of which corn had to be bound as well as stooked afterwards. – Agricultural Gazette.


1869 October 12 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY. THE WEATHER AND HARVEST. – The weather for the past few days has been warm and genial, accompanied by fog, and farmers have been busy at harvest work. The cutting is over on some of the farms, and a good many will finish this week. The mild weather has prevented farmers from getting much of their crops into the stackyard; but if the weather proves dry throughout this week a good many fields will be cleared. The only reaping machine in the island was introduced to it this year by Mr Seatter, Saviskaill. It was one from Mr Samuelson & Co., Banbury. It did its work well, and undoubtedly will effect a great saving in grain.

In Rousay every kind of improvement seems to make rapid progress, except education, which appears to be declining – especially in one district – and we may thank those for it who did all in their power to deprive the district of an excellent teacher, and supplied his place with a very so-and-so one – as they themselves admit. It is to be hoped that through time even this will be improved.


1869 November 16 Orkney Herald

ROUSAY PACKET THE SMACK RIGGED BOAT “OSPRAY”
WILL Sail as a Packet betwixt KIRKWALL and ROUSAY
twice a-week until further notice. Leaving Evie, and West Side,
Rousay, every Monday; and East Side, Rousay, every
Thursday, for Kirkwall (weather permitting).
PETER STICKLER, Master.
________________

ROUSAY PACKET. – From our advertising columns it will be observed that the powerful boat “Osprey” is to run as a packet between Kirkwall and Rousay until further notice. Such an arrangement cannot fail to be of great advantage to the inhabitants of that island in the winter season, when the weather is in general too unsettled to render it safe to come the long distance in small yawls.


1869 November 27 The Orcadian

ROUSAY. – THE wet weather has prevented some of our farmers from getting their harvest work completed; some of the potatoes being still in the ground. The potato crop here, in general is far below an average; but the turnip crop is good, and with plenty of straw farmers will have plenty of keep for cattle.

THE Free Church School here was opened a few days ago after the usual vacation; but a good many of the people who have children think they may as well keep them at home. Some of the office-bearers of the Free Church and others in the district are anxious to have another teacher if it should only be for the winter months; and if no help comes from the proper quarter, there is no other alternative. Parties whom we would expect to use their influence to have knowledge diffused among the young seem to have no interest in the matter – and instead of knowledge, ignorance is on the ascendant. However, we must thankfully acknowledge the donations given yearly by two gentlemen, and another from a society, for the advancement of education in the district; and as these donations are given to no particular party but for the good of the young, we believe the district will use their influence to turn that part of the salary to better account by getting an efficient teacher for the time being, and ere long a better system may be introduced by those more interested in the matter; and we hope soon to see the men who call themselves Liberals really on the side of progress.