1934 January 17 Orkney Herald
AN ORKNEY CAIRN. – At a meeting of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, held in Edinburgh on Monday of last week…..A paper on “A Cairn containing Short Cists at Trumland, Rousay, Orkney,” by the late Mr J. Hewat Craw, F.S.A.Scot., was read. This monument was excavated by Mr Walter G. Grant, the proprietor of the ground, and Mr Craw. The cairn appeared as a low grassy mound, and for the greater part consisted of earth. The original height was 4 feet 6 inches, and within its margin it was surrounded by a low wall of several courses. The enclosed space was 20 feet 9 inches in diameter. Near the centre, on the top, was a small structure which contained only soil. Below it was the primary burial, a small short cist containing incinerated human remains. It was peculiar in being surrounded by slabs set on end leaning against the grave, and it was covered by a series of slabs laid flat. Half-way between it and the north edge of the mound was a third cist, also of small dimensions, containing burnt human bones and fragments of a steatite urn. A fourth cist was discovered 9 inches outside the kerb to the east. It contained no bones, but was full of burnt matter similar to what was found in the third grave.
Mr Walter G. Grant, F.S.A.Scot., described a burial mound on his ground at Westness, Rousay, which had been opened many years ago. To ascertain the character of the structure, he re-excavated it last summer. The mound, which was of earth, measured from 35 feet to 40 feet in diameter, and in its denuded state was 3 feet in height. Near the centre was an irregularly shaped sub-oval chamber, measuring 8 feet 9 inches in length and 6 feet 11 inches in greatest breadth. The west side and part of the northern end consisted of well-built walling. The greater part of the east side was formed by a large slab set on edge. Projecting towards the centre at each end of the slab was a row of small stones set on edge, forming a hearth-like structure, but there were no indications of burning about it. The east end was much reduced in height, but in its centre were the remains of a recess. The north-eastern corner was completely destroyed, but probably had been filled with a slab set on edge. In the northern end was another small recess. There was nothing to show how the chamber had been roofed, and the only relics found were a few incinerated bones which have been identified by Professor Low, F.S.A.Scot., as human. The building, which was of unusual type, was probably sepulchral.
1934 January 24 Orkney Herald
EVIE – THE POSTBOAT IN DANGER. – Some excitement. was caused here last Friday morning by a misadventure to the Rousay mail-boat at the Evie side. Lying at the moorings while the men were ashore for the mails she broke adrift and was carried shorewards by a strong north wind. Mr Wood, Quarrelbraes, fortunately saw her break off, and raised the alarm at once. Immediately a squad of men were on the scene and to the rescue. Through a cold, rough sea, wading out to the wastes, they succeeded in preventing the boat grounding, and she was taken back undamaged. The mails were put on board by a small dinghy, and the crossing was safely accomplished through a sea which frequently buried the craft. Needless to say there were no passengers.
WEATHER. – During the past week winter’s voice has been heard in the angry roar of the wind tearing over the countryside, and in the noisy slashing rains which have soaked the earth. The south-westerly gale of Wednesday night was the worst experienced this winter, the velocity of the wind, when strongest about midnight, reaching about 80 m.p.h. Houses shook, doors and windows rattled, and a general creaking and cracking disturbed the hours of sleep. But no serious damage was done. A high tide accompanying the storm shifted some of the small boats on the beach. Like the previous week, the conditions moderated towards the end, and Sunday broke bright, clear and calm and spring-like with snowdrops raising their white heads.
1934 February 14 Orkney Herald
ORKNEY’S WEEK OF FIERCE GALES. – Last week was one of the stormiest Orkney has ever experienced, and it was not surprising that considerable damage to property is reported from all over the county. Fences have been smashed, hay-stacks blown down, wireless aerials broken, boats torn adrift, and in these and other ways the gales have taken their toll of the county. At different times the gale was accompanied by hail, sleet, and rain, and on two successive evenings lightning was seen.
The gale lasted from Monday until Sunday night, moderating only at rare intervals, and was at its height on Wednesday night, when gusts of a velocity of 88 miles per hour were recorded. This is the highest velocity recorded in the Orkneys since the beginning of the present century…..
STORM KILLS HENS IN EVIE. – Evidence of the devastating effects of the storm of Wednesday night was seen in the havoc wrought among wooden hen-houses. Many were shifted and overturned, receiving much damage. One, in Woodwick, was carried a long distance, and reduced to matchwood, all the livestock within – prize birds – being fatally injured. Another in Costa turned over and killed a sheep. In addition to hen-house destruction, several roofs of houses suffered damage, slates being torn off, and corn stacks were tousled.
Tremendous seas played round the cliffs, assuming fantastic shapes as they rose in mountains and lost themselves in spray, which was carried in showers for miles before the wind. Storm clouds raced across the sky, and a sickly tawny light suffused the landscape – sure portent of wind. A new week broke with a lull, but threatening clouds soon resolved themselves into torrential rain, which continued for the greater part of Sunday forenoon, and later developed into a drizzle with renewed wind vigour. “Very wet” now describes the surroundings, an abundant rainfall having supplied the thirsty earth with water sufficient to meet its demands.
EGILSHAY PLOUGHING MATCH. – The Egilshay Agricultural Society was not favoured with ideal weather conditions when they held their annual ploughing match on Wednesday, 7th inst., in a field kindly granted by Mr Seatter, of Howe, for the purpose. So unfavourable, indeed, did the weather appear in the early part of the morning that doubts were entertained as to whether the match would be held at all, but these were dispelled by Mr Hugh Mainland, Hurtiso, arriving from Rousay in spite of the rough sea, with his boat fully loaded with the judges, the representative of the Highland Society, and several ploughing enthusiasts.
The competitors who numbered 13 – 2 champions and 11 ordinary – once on the field, seemed oblivious to cutting wind and intermittent showers, several braving the elements in shirt-sleeves.
A number of interested spectators visited the field during the course of the day, and spent a considerable time viewing the work before assembling to witness the presentation of prizes.
PIoughmen and assistants were amply supplied with refreshments on the field by Mrs Seatter and helpers, and later, at the close of the day’s work, Mr and Mrs Seatter entertained judges, ploughmen, committee, visitors, and friends to dinner.
By this time the wind had attained gale force, and the Rousay visitors reconciled themselves without great difficulty to passing the night in Egilshay. They were able to return to Rousay first thing in the morning, which dawned comparatively calm and peaceful. No trace of the fury of the previous night remained except in the memories of a few who stayed at Howe, to enjoy further Mr and Mrs Seatter’s hospitality, and who returned when the storm had reached its height, with tales of gruelling experiences encountered on the homeward journey.
The organisation of the match was in the hands of the following committee: – Messrs William Mainland, Midskail (president); Thomas Garson, Grugar; John Seator, Onziebist; Ernest Alexander, Kirbist; James Mainland, Sound; along with the secretary, Mr P. Swannie, North Tofts.
The judges for the occasion were Messrs Robert Johnston, Trumland Farm; Thomas Gibson, Broland; and James Craigie, sen., Falquoy, all from Rousay, whose awards gave general satisfaction.
The committee wish to thank Mr Seatter for the use of the field, the judges for their services, Mr Robert Mainland, Westness, Rousay, who visited the field on behalf of the Highland and Agricultural Society, Mr and Mrs Seatter of Howe, the donors of the special prizes, and all who contributed to the success of the match…..
1934 March 21 Orkney Herald
EXCAVATION OF MOUND AT ROUSAY
DESCRIPTION OF LONG CAIRN OF NEOLITHIC TIMES
At the monthly meeting of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, held in the Library of the National Museum of Antiquities, Edinburgh, on Monday of last week, Dr J. Graham Callander, Scot., and Mr Walter G. Grant, F.S.A. Scot., described the excavation of a long cairn of Neolithic times lying on the south-west coast of the island of Rousay, about 100 yards east-south-east of the Broch of Midhowe. It had been intended that the examination of the monument should be described by Mr J. Hewat Craw, F.S.A.Scot., but his lamented death had necessitated that this should be done by the authors of the paper, who had been able to follow the excavations closely, and had had to complete them.
After excavation it was seen that the mound consisted of stones encircled by drystone building, the sides being practically straight and parallel. The roof had collapsed, and the burial chamber was filled with fallen debris. On this being cleared out, there was seen a long narrow gallery with vertical walls running nearly the whole length of the mound, and divided into twelve cells by large upright slabs projecting from the sides, giving it the appearance of a narrow byre with stalls on each side. At its widest part the chamber was about 8 feet wide, the spaces down the centre between the edges of the divisional slabs being about 3 feet to 4 feet across.
REMAINS OF HUMAN SKELETONS
In the fourth cell from the south the remains of two human skeletons were found 4 feet above the floor. These burials were much later than the period of the cairn, as they must have been made after the collapse of the building. A rude stone implement, hammer-stones, and animal bones, which were found at various levels, had been carried in with the fall of the roof.
In one of the corners of the first cell was a heap of about three gallons of limpet shells. These had been deposited before the destruction of the gallery, as they lay on the floor. No other relics were found until the fifth cell was reached, but in this and in the next five cells the remains of no less than 26 human skeletons were discovered, and in the end cell skulls of two more. All these remains, with the exception of one skeleton, which lay on the west side of the gallery, were deposited on the east side, not on the floor, but on a shelf or platform of small flags, rather less than one foot high. The number of skeletons varied in each stall, but usually there were at least three. They had been placed in crouching positions, but in one case the bones had been collected into a heap and placed at the back of the stall to allow of another burial in it.
The skeleton remains were submitted to Professor Low, of Aberdeen University, who reported that of the individuals represented by the bones 21 were adults, seven young persons between 14 and 20 years of age, and two children under four. Very few of the bones were so complete as to allow of measurements, but there were three fairly complete skulls, two of men and one of a woman. They resembled Stone Age skulls found elsewhere in Scotland. They were dolichocepahlic, or long-headed, with the capacity of the cranium not far short of modern Europeans. The height of the men was no more than 5 feet 5 inches, and of the women 5 feet. The crowns of the teeth were much worn, and, while there were no signs of caries, some of the tooth sockets showed evidence of pyorrhoea. One skull showed impaction of the wisdom teeth. Underneath one of the skeletons were the remains of an egg shell.
1934 March 28 Orkney Herald
EVIE – HEATHER-BURNING. – Hill fires are now rife, and clouds of white smoke drift across the hills and down the valleys, carrying a fragrant aroma which is very pleasant to most folks’ sense of smell. These heather conflagrations are very pretty seen in the evenings, when they light up the hillsides and cast a lurid reflection on the sky. Every spring this work of burning the old heather goes on to encourage a readier growth of the young plants.
SEASON. – March is hastening on – the equinox is past and now the day exceeds the night. The sun has turned his face towards us and is ascending higher and higher, spreading his beams further and further. All life is responding to the increase of sunrays, and there is a general awakening. Nature is rushing into the arms of Spring, and no weather can check her advance, for the torpid state is at an end. A fresh fragrance exudes from the earth. The turf smells sweet. Pools are no longer stagnant, but astir with life, and the countryside is quickly losing its drab appearance. March has not given us any extremes, and apart from cold, blustering winds, there has been little to grouse at. There has been little frost, one attempt at a snowstorm, a measure of rain, and a good portion of sunshine. Now, in sight of the end, somewhat mild conditions give promise of a Iamb-like departure.
FARM. – Seed time is here, and very soon the farmers will be in their busiest season. As yet the ploughed fields retain their straight lined furrows, but a little more sunlight and drought will see them ruffled under the action of the harrows, being prepared for the reception of the seed. Sufficient moisture has now been absorbed by the earth, and the surface soil is almost dry enough to allow sowing, but as a rule the farmers here do not sow much before the advent of April, even March weather is tempting, heavy soil and a northern exposure not demanding early sowing. Many cattle are now outside every fine day for exercise, making a playground of the fields. Early lambs are frisking round their mothers. Chickens are beginning to swarm.
[In the first three months of this year there has not been a single word from the Rousay ‘correspondent’. For the first time ever there was no write-up of the annual ploughing match either. Every other island and mainland parish – especially Rousay’s neighbour Evie – had paragraphs and more often than not complete page columns telling of their weekly life and general goings-on. There obviously is not a resident Rousay ‘correspondent’ willing to divulge such information, and it is a shame the paper’s editor could not be bothered to do anything about the situation. I will continue to peruse each edition for Rousay ‘news’ – but in the meantime will continue to allude to the Evie correspondent’s eloquent and descriptive submissions.]
[So, I turned the page, and lo and behold………..]
“MAINS AGAIN”
ROUSAY AMATEUR DRAMATIC SOCIETY SCORE ANOTHER SUCCESS
On Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings, 14th, 15th, and 16th March, the Rousay Amateur Dramatic Society staged yet another very successful performance, the play chosen this year being “Mains Again,” a sequel to “Mains’s Wooin,” which they so successfully carried through last year. It was generally agreed that the story itself was not such a good plot as last year, but it was more humorous, and the artistes carried through their parts in a manner that left nothing to be desired, many of the parts creating much amusement.
The producer, Miss T. Mathieson, deserves the highest credit and praise, and her good tact and untiring energy, was undoubtedly largely responsible for the success of the performances.
One cannot pass on without a word of praise to the stage manager, Mr D. J. Logie. The society were at their wits’ end as to getting scenery about three weeks before the performance was due to come off. Mr Logie very kindly came to the rescue, painted the scenes, and the job he made of it, especially in the short time he had to do it, was really marvellous. The society are deeply indebted to him, and feel more at ease now that they know they have such a gifted artist In their midst.
The Rousay A.D. Band, conducted by Mr R. Inkster, Cogar, played selections during all the intervals, and the excellent music which they discoursed was very much appreciated by the audiences each evening.
A rehearsal was held on Wednesday evening, when the school children were admitted by a silver collection. On Thursday evening, unfortunately, the weather conditions were not of the best, and although a goodly number of the older people turned out, the hall was only about half full.
At the close, Dr Michie, in a few appropriate remarks, proposed votes of thanks to all who had been responsible for the evening’s entertainment.
Friday, the last evening of the performance, drew out all the youth and beauty of the island, there being a dance to follow that night. There were also present a goodly number from Wyre, Egilshay, Kirkwall, etc., as well as some of the older people who had been the previous evening. The hall was packed to its utmost capacity, and, like everything else that’s good, “Mains Again” came to a close all too soon.
At the close, Mr Inkster, Cogar, proposed a vote of thanks to the performers for the excellent manner in which they had all carried through their parts. A similar compliment was, on the call of Mr R. Johnston, paid the band. On the motion of Mr Craigie, Pier Cottage, Miss Mathieson was cordially thanked for so ably acting as producer.
Miss Matheson suitably replied, and in a neat speech conveyed the society’s deep gratitude to Mr Logie for painting the scenery, and also acting as stage manager.
The cast is as follows: – Mains (well-to-do farmer), Mr Robert Johnston; Peter, Mr Hugh Gibson; Sandy, Geordie, and Jack (servants at Mains of Bungry), Messrs James Mainland, George Craigie, and Hugh Marwick; Cobbler (now a farmer), Mr James Grieve; Mr Walker, Mr George Sutherland; Judge, Mr John Mainland; Officer of Court, Mr George Petrie; Miss Kate Henderson, Mrs H. Gibson; Miss Mabel Henderson (niece), Mrs S. Inkster; Miss Kate Macdonald (dressmaker), Mrs J. Grieve; Bawbie (housekeeper at Mains of Bungry), Miss I. Craigie; chorus of haymakers – Misses Minnie Reid, Thora Kirkness, Cathleen Craigie, Netta Sinclair, Molly Mainland, and Isabella Lyon.
The sum of well on £17 was raised, the greater part of which goes to the Balfour Hospital.
1934 April 26 The Scotsman
AERODROME ON AN ORKNEY ISLAND. – Rousay, one of the Orkney north isles, is the latest island to equip itself with an aerodrome. Two fields below Trumland Farm have been converted after two months’ labour into an admirable landing ground, which has now been reported satisfactory by Highland Airways (Ltd.)
1934 May 23 Orkney Herald
ROUSAY – PRESENTATION. – Under the auspices of the Rousay Amateur Dramatic Society, a dance was held in the Recreation Hall on Friday, 18th May. Dancing was engaged in for a short time before the principal part of the evening’s proceedings took place, when Mrs James Grieve, formerly headmistress of Sourin School, was made the recipient of a silver-mounted oak tray, suitably inscribed, from fellow members of the Dramatic Society on the occasion of her marriage. Mr Johnston, president of the Society, extended a hearty welcome to all present, and hoped they would have a pleasant and enjoyable evening, and called on Mr George Sutherland, secretary, to address the company. Mr Sutherland, in a neat speech, referred to the valuable services that Mrs Grieve had rendered to the Society both on the stage and as regards loaning articles of furniture, etc., for the performances which had been held during the past two winters. He then read the inscription, which was as follows: – “Presented by the members of the Rousay Amateur Dramatic Society to Miss Isabel Craigie on the occasion of her marriage. 6th April 1923,” and called on Miss Tina Mathieson to hand over the tray. In a short speech Miss Mathieson conveyed the Society’s best wishes to both Mrs Grieve and her husband for many happy days of married life. Mrs Grieve feelingly replied, and spoke of her happy associations with the Society and of the pleasure it had given her to render any assistance that would benefit them in any way. She thanked them very much indeed for the beautiful tray they had given her, and assured them she would treasure it very much. Mr Robert Johnston then called for a vote of thanks to Miss Mathieson for making the presentation. Tea was served, after which dancing was resumed until the early hours of the morning. Music was supplied on the violin by Messrs Johnston, Grieve and Inkster, accompanied on the piano by Mrs Grieve, Miss Mathieson and Messrs Inkster and Wallace, and on the accordion by Mr Leonard. The duties of M.C. were ably carried out by Messrs Linklater and Sutherland.
1934 June 27 Orkney Herald
SCAPA FLOW SALVAGE. – Metal Industries (Ltd.), Glasgow, who are continuing the salvage of the sunken German Fleet in Scapa Flow, commenced ten years ago by Messrs Cox and Danks, are making good progress in their attempt to raise the 28,000 ton Bayern, the largest of the remaining ships.
Operations were retarded by wintry weather during April and May, but rapid strides have been made recently.
The Bayern lies bottom up in 20 fathoms of water. She is resting on a gun turret amidships and upon her stern, while her bows are fourteen feet clear of the sea bottom. The salvors state that, though the stern is sunk in mud, this presents no insuperable difficulties to the salvage.
Seven great air-locks, projecting ten feet above the surface of the sea, are attached to the vessel’s bottom eighty feet below the water. Through these the workmen enter into the interior of the submerged battleship, where they work under compressed air about a hundred feet under water. After three hours of such work they have to spend two hours in a decompression chamber before finally emerging into normal atmospheric pressure.
Compressed air, up to 47 pounds pressure in the fore-part, is supplied to the Bayern from powerful air-compressors installed on board the salvage vessel Bertha, which is moored alongside.
Almost a hundred men, including six divers, are engaged upon the salvage work. Though this work is progressing very satisfactorily, it is expected that about six weeks will elapse before the battleship shows above water.
1934 June 27 Orkney Herald
ORKNEY BOSUN OF HESPERUS RETIRES
MYSTERY OF FLANNAN ISLES RECALLED
After 40 years spent at sea in the service of the Commissioners of Northern Lights, Mr Frederick Leonard, Oban, bosun of the n.l.s. Hesperus, has just retired.
An Orcadian by birth, Mr Leonard came at an early age to Oban and joined the n.l.s. Signal. Soon afterwards he had his first experience of the perils of the sea, for during a dense fog the Signal ran aground on the Mull of Kintyre. Fortunately no lives were lost.
For a short time after this Mr Leonard served on the Flying Eagle, which did duty until the Hesperus was built in 1896. From that date until now Mr Leonard sailed on the Hesperus, and he was at the time of his retiral the only member still left of the crew which originally manned her.
Three Keepers Disappear Without a Trace. – It was in 1901 that the Hesperus played a part in one of the great sea mysteries – the disappearance without trace of the three lighthouse keepers on the lonely Flannan Isles. Much has been written about this mystery, and many theories have been put forward to account for the occurrence. Mr Leonard was a member of the Hesperus’ crew at the time of the tragedy.
“When we came near the lighthouse that day,” he told a ‘People’s Journal’ correspondent, “there was no response to our calls. We then put up rockets, but still there was no response. Then we landed with difficulty and went up to the light, which was on a very high headland.
“We found no life of any description. Everything was in order inside – the table set for dinner – but no sign of the keepers. We then left three of our crew to keep the light burning until we got other keepers.
“There was never any trace found of the missing men. The belief is that they were washed away by a wave, but nobody ever really knew.”
Just In Time. – More recently Mr Leonard participated in another famous drama of the sea, when the Newfoundland schooner Neptune, which was blown across the Atlantic, was picked up by the Hesperus off Ardnamurchan Point. On that occasion the Hesperus arrived in the nick of time, for had she not done so the Neptune would assuredly have become a total wreck that night after surviving the perils and hardships of a forced Atlantic crossing.
The part which the Hesperus played in trying to get the marooned keepers off Dubh Artach is still fresh in everyone’s memory. Perhaps, naturally, most attention was focused on the marooned keepers, but the gallant efforts of the Hesperus’ crew, and among them Mr Leonard, should not be overlooked.
The seamen on the n.l.s. ships have difficult and dangerous work, which they perform as a matter of course. For 40 years Mr Leonard has carried out these duties faithfully and well, and now that he has retired from the service his numerous friends trust that he will live many years to enjoy his well-earned rest.
[Frederick Cunningham Leonard was born at Digro, Rousay, on June 12th 1869. He was the son of James Leonard and Hannah Reid. James Leonard was the ‘Champion of the Rousay Crofters’ and gave evidence against the island’s laird at the Napier Commission sitting in Kirkwall in 1883. Because of this James and his large family were evicted from Digro, and they later settled in Oban.]
1934 July 25 Orkney Herald
SCORCHING SUNSHINE AT ROUSAY REGATTA. – Regatta Day, which is Rousay’s big day of the year, was once again attended by complete success from every point of view. Scorching sunshine was tempered by a fresh westerly breeze, flags and bunting bridged the road to the pier, and aeroplanes circled above Viera Sound, while the white wings of racing yachts drove across the water. From time to time the proceedings were enlivened with music by Kirkwall Town Band. Good music, good sailing and good weather. Rousay is at its best on regatta day.
The regatta this year was in the nature of a triumph for the Kirkwall boats, which swept the board of every trophy except one, and that one was the medal for the race confined to Rousay competitors. In the 22-feet class W. Sinclair, in the Sea Imp, romped home with a good lead, and in the all-comers with a much narrower lead. The Ivy (J. Foulis) ran away with the 17-feet event, and the Vala (D. Cooper) beat all the others of the 14-feet class in both races for which she was entered.
Adventurous Landing. – A large number of Rousay regatta enthusiasts, or just Rousay enthusiasts, travelled to the lofty island on Friday by the s.s. Earl Sigurd, which left Kirkwall Pier early. There was an adventurous spirit about the landing at Rousay. As there was not enough water to allow the steamer to take the pier she had to lie off while the excursionists were taken ashore in small boats.
The ceremonial of “measuring in” was begun soon after the arrival of the trippers, and there was one minor tragedy when a yacht, which had been intended for the 14-feet class, was found to be three inches too long on the waterline, and had to race with the 17-footers.
The first event was the race for boats of 22 feet waterline, for which there were four entries, Sea Imp, Mizpah and Venus, all of Kirkwall, and Snowdrop, of Rousay.
The course was from the pier round a boat lying off Skairsay, up along the Wyre shore, round a boat at the Haa, and back to the pier. For the 22-feet and the 17-feet boats the course was six miles, twice round, while the small boats made only the one circuit.
The Snowdrop was first to cross the line when the starting gun sounded. Mizpah followed closely, with Sea Imp next and Venus bringing up the rear. Sea Imp, however, her big sails making the most of the wind, quickly overhauled the leaders, and was seen to round the Skairsay mark ahead of Snowdrop. Mizpah made headway and took second place, but she and Snowdrop, to the mystification of the officials at the pier, were seen to be coming back across the Sound, while the Sea Imp and Venus beat up along the Wyre shore. Mizpah and Snowdrop turned again towards the Wyre shore, but both Sea Imp and Venus had now gained a big lead on them. Sea Imp was well ahead at the Haa.
A diversion was caused during the race by the arrival of two Highland Airways’ planes from Kirkwall, which flew low over the Sound and landed in the field of Trumland Farm, which is their ordinary landing ground.
Mizpah challenged Venus for second place in the second round, but Venus pulled away again. Snowdrop, sailing very well, particularly between Skairsay and Haa in the second round of the course, although last to cross the finishing line, won second place on corrected time. Sea Imp was an easy winner.
Veteran Skipper in 17-foot Race. – The Ivy showed all her rivals a clean pair of heels in the 17-feet class, for which there were seven entries, including the Bulldog, an Evie boat, skippered by Mr W. Rendall, a veteran of 86.
Whitemaa, which had Mr Eric Linklater, the novelist, as one of her crew, made a flying start and crossed the line first, pursued by Ivy, Thora and Sam-Huam-Bu, a picturesque vessel this last, green and white painted with brown sails. Whitemaa kept her lead well, and was still ahead at the Skairsay turn. Many of the boats found the tide a formidable obstacle for the Wyre shore, and it was between Skairsay and Haa that Whitemaa dropped back to second place, losing her lead to Ivy, which was sailing beautifully. Ivy literally leapt ahead when she rounded the Haa boat, and it was evident as she came tearing across the Sound on the final lap of her first circuit that she was an easy winner. Whitemaa, Thora and Sam-Huam-Bu were fighting it out in fine style for second place. They were very close together at the start of their second round, but Whitemaa drew away before the wind and came in second, Ivy having already won by a big margin. Sam-Huam-Bu, which sailed a fine race, was a good third and Thora fourth.
There were eight entries for the 14-feet race, in which Mary Annie (S. Mainland) had a fine start, crossing the line well ahead. Lottie, a Wyre boat, was next, and Ivy (G. Harrold) third. Vala, the Kirkwall hope, lay fourth, but not for long. Challenging the leaders on the run to the first mark, she passed them on the turn, and piled up a big lead along the Wyre shore. The result was an easy win for Vala, which sailed beautifully and finished in the excellent time of 36 mins 37 secs. The local competitors took the other three places, Ivy being second, Lily third and Daisy fourth.
Big Event of the Afternoon. – The big event of the afternoon was the all-comers’ race. Seventeen boats jockeyed for the start, from the majestic 18½-feet Sea Imp to the tiny 9ft. 3in. Tern. In this race the 14-feet boats were required to go once round the course and the bigger boats twice. Many of the competitors made a very bad start, some being over the line before the gun was fired and unable to get back in time. Sam-Huam-Bu was first away, closely followed by Thistle, Mizpah and Vala. Mizpah took the lead in the turn to the Skairsay mark, and turned for the Haa, with Ivy (Fouls.) just at his stern, and Sea Imp coming up fast. Sea Imp passed the Ivy. Vala was lying fifth and holding her own. Whitemaa advanced from fourth place to first, and Vala dropped back one place, overhauled by Snowdrop. Whitemaa failed to hold her lead, but Mizpah still answered the challenge of the Sea Imp in grand style. The wind had freshened somewhat, and Mizpah and Sea Imp were neck and neck on the approach to the Haa boat. Mizpah still led on the home run for the first round, and continued to show the Sea Imp her heels on the first lap of the second. Ivy was coming up fast and Snowdrop was lying fourth. Vala, which had given a fine account of herself against her bigger rivals, finished first of the small boats.
The great fight between Mizpah and Sea Imp went on, but after turning the Skairsay mark the Sea Imp drew ahead, and kept her lead throughout the rest of the race. Ivy was always a strong challenger, and when she crossed the finishing line third (of the bigger boats) there were many who thought she would be the winner on corrected time. Sea Imp, however, was the winner – by 17 secs.
Seven boats entered for the local race – Snowdrop, Olive, Daisy, Thistle, Ivy, Lottie and Lily.
Lily was first away, followed by Lottie and Snowdrop. Snowdrop, however, quickly took the lead and increased it throughout the rest of the race, finishing a long way ahead of the other competitors. The first of the small boats was Lottie (C. Craigie)…..
Race Officials. – The officials of the regatta were: – starter, Mr James Craigie, Pier Cottage; time-keeper, Mr James S. Gibson, Hullion, vice-commodore of Rousay Sailing Club; clerk, Mr Robert Johnston, Trumland; committee in charge of arrangements, Messrs John Cormack and D. J. Logie. Valuable work was done by the secretary of the club, Mr George Sutherland. During the day the Commodore, Mr W. G. Grant of Trumland House, was an interested spectator of events from his launch, Otter.
Kirkwall Town Band, under Bandmaster R. S. Spence, played delightful music at intervals throughout the day, and shortly before the steamer left for Kirkwall they were warmly thanked for their services on the call of Mr J. S. Gibson.
The Band were the guests of the Club at an enjoyable tea. The catering arrangements were admirably carried out by a committee of ladies, under Miss Leonard, Quoys, and Miss Gibson, Hullion.
Prizes Presented. – The presentation of prizes took place at the close of the regatta, Miss M. Logie, Ivy Cottage, handing over the trophies amid loud applause. Miss Logie was thanked on the call of Mr Gibson, and other votes of thanks were to the ladies in charge of the teas, proposed by Mr G. Sutherland, and to Mr Sutherland, the club’s energetic secretary, by Mr R. Johnston.
The steamer received a hearty send-off as it left the pier (which it was able to come alongside this time, but with nothing to spare), and the Band responded with suitable melodies like “Auld Lang Syne” and “Will ye no come back again.”
So a remarkably successful day ended.
EVIE – ROUSAY REGATTA. – The Rousay regatta always evokes much interest here, and, as usual, Evie was represented in the contest last Friday, four boats from this quarter taking part in the races. An ideal day favoured the occasion, a fine sailing breeze prevailing throughout. Little luck, however, attended the Evie contingent, one boat only – the Thora – figuring in the prize-list, 4th in order. Of special interest was the entry into the competition of an octogenarian, Mr William Kendall, Shortie, Outer Evie, skipper of the Bulldog. Despite to his 85 years, this sea veteran retains his youthful vigour and his love of the sea, and, urged by the sea-fever still in his veins, he joined the racers, setting out with keen zest for the day’s sport, managing his boat with a skill which revealed a hand that had not lost its cunning. We congratulate Mr Rendall on his vitality and pluck, and hope that he may be long able to sail his barque.
PICNICS – NORTH CHURCH GUILD, ORPHIR. – The island of Rousay formed the venue of attraction this year for the annual outing of Orphir North Church Guild members. The event took place on Friday, and although the numbers participating in the trip were perhaps fewer than usual, the outing was greatly enjoyed by those privileged to attend. A bright sunny sky welcomed Intending excursionists in the early morning, and the buses were boarded at 7.30 en route for Kirkwall, where the steamer Earl Sigurd (Captain John Bremner) lay in readiness for the party’s embarkation. The sea trip, needless to say, was much enjoyed, and the hour’s sail amidst beautiful island scenery made a pleasant beginning to the day’s proceedings.
The company, on arrival at Trumland farm, were welcomed by Mr and Mrs Johnston, the genial tenants, and with their kindly assistance the committee were enabled to have lunch ready in very short notice. After an appetising repast had been partaken of the excursionists, through the kind permission of Mr Walter Grant of Trumland, were met by Mr David Pirie, gardener, and escorted through the magnificent policies of Mr Grant’s island residence. Snugly sheltered from the north, the well laid out flower plots were the cynosure of all eyes, and the time spent in the grounds of Trumland House proved one of the most enjoyable periods in the day’s programme. Highland Airways’ two ‘planes giving flips in the near vicinity were the next to attract the attention of the visitors, and three of the party felt the thrills of a first flight. The regatta at Trumland Pier attracted the major number of the party during the afternoon, while quite a few visited the agricultural districts, and were impressed by the up-to-date manner in which farming is carried on in the island.
The company assembled at Trumland Farm at 5 o’clock, where the committee had tea in readiness, and after the inner man had been amply provided for, the usual votes of thanks were heartily responded to. Rev. H. A. Neville called for a vote of thanks to Mr Walter Grant for kindly allowing them to see the sights of his beautiful gardens. They were all very grateful, too, to Mr and Mrs Johnston for the genial hospitality they had shown that day. Mr Neville also asked for a cordial vote of thanks to the committee, who had made such efforts to make the outing a success.
The return sea-trip to Kirkwall with the good ship Earl Sigurd made a good finish to what had proved a perfect day, and the party arrived in Orphir about 11 p.m., all voting the trip the best of the season.
The committee are desirous of thanking Mr Bertram, manager of Orkney Steam Navigation Company, and Captain Bremner and crew of the s.s. Earl Sigurd for their kind courtesy in connection with the trip.
1934 August 1 Orkney Herald
EVIE – FOOTBALL. – In cool and blustery weather last Wednesday night, an Evie team crossed Eynhallow Sound to engage in a friendly contest with a neighbouring team in Rousay. They lost by 5 – 0. The team were kindly entertained to a delightful tea at Trumland Farm by Mrs Johnston after the match, and returned about midnight.
ROUSAY – ANNUAL FROTOFT PICNIC. – The annual Frotoft picnic took place at the School on Friday last, when, despite the unfavourable weather conditions, a large number of competitors and spectators were present, including many holiday makers at present in the island.
In addition to the usual children’s races, there was a varied programme of sports open to all-comers, and in each case the various races were gone through with great enthusiasm.
The last, and probably the most interesting, item on the programme was a dancing competition (Highland Fling). Fred Kirkness supplied excellent music on the bagpipes, and the competition was judged by Mr Macnair, Glasgow, and Mr G. Sinclair, Shanghai, both in Rousay on holiday. [Result: 1 Molly Mainland, 2 Isabella Lyon, 3 Margaret Lyon.]
Upon the conclusion of the sports tea was served in the School by the picnic committee. Mrs G. Sinclair presented the prizes, for which she was accorded a hearty vote of thanks on the call of Mr W. Gibson.
A most enjoyable dance followed the picnic, and was kept up with great zest till an early hour.
The committee take this opportunity of expressing their thanks to Messrs Macnair and Sinclair for acting as judges of the dancing competition, and to all others who helped it any way to make the event a success…..
1934 August 15 Orkney Herald
CATTLE SHOW SEASON IN ORKNEY
ROUSAY’S FINE ISLAND STOCK
As at several other shows this season, both the gate and number of entries at the annual cattle show of the Rousay Agricultural and Horticultural Association were somewhat adversely affected by the prolonged hay harvest.
The show was held on Tuesday of last week in the usual yard at Sourin, kindly granted by Mr Robert Seatter, Banks. The weather was fine, and several people took advantage of the special trip from Kirkwall to Rousay run by the steamer Earl Sigurd.
Sir Robert and Lady [Gertrude] Hamilton visited the showyard during the course of the day. [He was Liberal MP for Orkney & Shetland.]
At the conclusion of the show the special prizes won in both the agricultural and horticultural sections were presented by Mrs W. G. Grant.
Officials of the Rousay Agricultural and Horticultural Association are: – President, Mr Robert S. Mainland, Nearhouse; vice-president, Mr Robert Seatter, Banks; secretary and treasurer, Mr John Linklater, Blossom. Members of the committee which deals more particularly with the cattle show sections are: – Messrs Mark M. Kirkness, Quoyostray; Hugh Robertson, Langskaill; David Moar, Saviskaill; James Craigie, Falquoy; John Mainland, Westness; Robert Johnston, Trumland; George Reid, Tratland; Hugh Mainland, Hurtiso; Allan Gibson, Bigland; Samuel Inkster, Wasdale; and Hugh Craigie, Scockness. Most of the gentlemen were in attendance at the show and acted as ring stewards and general helpers.
The judges were two young experts from the Mainland, Messrs David Scott, Mirkady, Deerness, and William Shearer, Midhouse, Holm, whose decisions gave general satisfaction.
Speaking to an “Orkney Herald” reporter, Mr Wm. Shearer said that this year’s Rousay show was an extra good show. He had been surprised at the high standard of the stock. The cattle especially were outstanding, some of them being fit for any show in Orkney. Possibly the best class was that for milk cows, the first four of which were all nearly equally good. The winner of the gold medal for the best animal in the cattle section, a big, strong quey from Avelshay, was a very good beast, though perhaps slightly defective in bone. The reserve cattle champion was a fine polled cow, also from Avelshay. This animal also won the cup for the best cow in the yard. The reserve for this cup was a big, strong Shorthorn of good type. The champion calf, said Mr Shearer, was a nice calf which, with ordinary luck, will yet be heard of.
The champion of the horse sections was a three-year-old gelding from Falquoy. This was a horse of grand quality, a good mover, with good feet and legs and splendid hair. The gelding’s only fault was that it was a little on the small side. The reserve champion was a big filly from Trumland. She had a grand hind leg, but was lacking in forefoot, and was a bit defective in front action.
PRIZE-LIST. CATTLE. – Polled Cows – 1 Mrs Gibson, Avelshay; 2 D. Moar, Saviskaill; 3 Wm. Corsie, Glebe; 4 Jas. Johnston, Trumland; 5 Geo. Reid, Tratland; 6 James Sabiston, Grips. Shorthorn Cows – 1 D. Moar, 2 Hugh Robertson, Langskaill; 3 and 4, Hugh Mainland, Hurtiso. Three-year-old Polled Cows (previously had a calf) – 1 J. Linklater, Blossom; 2 Jas. Lyon, Ervadale; 3 Geo. Reid, 4 and 5 Hugh Mainland. Two-year-old Polled Queys – 1 Mrs Gibson, 2 D. Moar, 3 Wm. Corsie, 4 Hugh Mainland, 5 and 6 James Johnston. Two-year-old Polled Steers – 1 and 2 D. Moar; 3 Hugh Robertson, 4 R. Seatter, Banks. One-year-old Polled Queys (1st Oct.) – 1 Hugh Mainland, 2 Hugh Robertson. One-year-old Polled Queys (1st March) – 1 Wm. Corsie, 2 Hugh Robertson, 3 and 4 Hugh Mainland. One-year-old Polled Steers – 1 D. Moar, 2 and 4 Hugh Mainland, 3 Wm. Corsie, 5 R. Seatter. Calves (1st Oct.) – 1, 2 and 3 Hugh Mainland, 4 R. Seatter. Calves (1st March) – 1, 3 and 4 R. Scatter, 2 Hugh Mainland.
Board of Agriculture Prizes. – Two-year-old Queys (in calf) – 1 Mrs Gibson, 2 Wm. Corsie, 3 Hugh Mainland.
SHEEP – Pen of Two Half-bred Ewes – 1 Wm. Inkster, Woo; 2 Jas. Sabiston, Grips; 3 Jas. Lyon, Ervadale; 4 R. Seatter, Banks. Cheviot Ewes – 1 Jas. Johnston, Trumland. Pen of Two Half-bred Gimmers – 1 Wm. Inkster, 2 R. Seatter. Pen of Two Half-bred Lambs – 1 and 4 Wm. Inkster, 2 Jas. Sabiston, 3 R. Seatter. Rams – 1 Jas. Johnston. Best Five Lambs – James Sabiston.
HORSES – Draught Geldings – 1 D. Moar. Yeld Mares – 1 Hugh Mainland, 2 Hugh Craigie, 3 Mainland Bros., Westness; 4 John Leonard, Quoys; 5 R. Seatter, Banks. Mares with Foal at Foot – 1 Geo. Reid, Tratland; 2 Jas. Craigie, Falquoy; 3 Mainland Bros. Foals – 1 Geo. Reid, 2 Mainland Bros., 3 Hugh Mainland, 4 Jas. Craigie. Three-year-old Geldings – 1 James Craigie, 2 John Craigie, Furse; 3 R. Seatter. Two-year-old Geldings – 1 James Johnston, 2 John Craigie, 3 Mrs Gibson, 4 James Russell, Brendale. One-year-old Geldings – 1 Mainland Bros. One-year-old Fillies – 1 Jas. Johnston, 2 John Craigie, 3 Hugh Mainland, 4 D. Moar. Ponies – 1 James Sabiston.
SPECIAL PRIZES – Mr James Robertson’s cup for best in horse section – Jas. Craigie; reserve, James Johnston. Mr Robert Bain’s (Bennachie) cup for best foal (one or two-year-old), sired by any of his horses – 1 and reserve, Jas. Johnston. The late Mr T. S. Peace’s cup for best cow in yard – Mrs Gibson; reserve. D. Moar. Ex-Detective D. J. Inkster’s cup for best Shorthorn animal – 1 and reserve, D. Moar. Mr Alex. Middleton’s cup for best butcher’s beast, not over 2½ years old – D. Moar; reserve, Mrs Gibson. Messrs R. Garden. Ltd., cup for mare with foal at foot – G. Reid. Northern Farmers’ Co-operative Society’s cup for best pair yearling bullocks – Mrs Gibson. Mr Ralph Miller’s (Kirkwall) cup for two-year-old quey carrying first calf and bred by exhibitor – Mrs Gibson; reserve, Wm. Corsie. Messrs Reith & Anderson’s cup for best five lambs – James Sabiston; reserve. Jas. Johnston. Rousay, Egilshay, and Wyre Co-operative Society’s silver teapot for the best yearling bullock or heifer – Mrs Gibson. Messrs J. & W. Tait’s (merchants, Kirkwall), biscuit barrel for best foal – Geo. Reid; reserve, Mainland Bros. Messrs Wm. Shearer’s (seedsmen, Kirkwall), E.P.N.S. vase for best gelding in the yard – J. Craigie (Falquoy); reserve, J. Johnston. Mr John T. Flett’s (butcher, Kirkwall), gold medal for best animal in the cattle section – 1 and reserve, Mrs Gibson. Messrs P. C. Flett & Co.’s (merchants, Kirkwall), for the best calf in the yard – R. Seatter; reserve, Hugh Mainland. Mr James Scott’s (Livinness) medal for the best yearling bullock or heifer (bred by and property of exhibitor) showing calf teeth – Mrs Gibson; reserve, H. Mainland. Messrs James Flett & Sons’ (merchants, Kirkwall) medal for best pair of ewes – James Johnston; reserve, John Inkster. Mr Stanley Firth’s medal for best animal in sheep section – James Johnston; reserve, Wm. Inkster. Mr Ralph Miller’s (Messrs John Scott, merchants, Kirkwall) medal for best horse-shoeing – Robert Grieve, Sourin. Medal from “A Kirkwall Friend,” for best draught gelding – D. Moar.
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HORTICULTURE
ANOTHER GRAND SHOW AT ROUSAY
The annual flower and industrial show of the Rousay Agricultural and Horticultural Association was held on Tuesday of last week in the Comrades’ Hall, Sourin, close to the site of the Association’s cattle show, which was held on the same day.
There was a splendid display of flowers and vegetables, and an enormous entry in the butter classes of the dairy produce section. In the baking and handiwork sections the number of entries and standard of quality were maintained.
During the day the general public passed in a continual stream around the tables bearing the exhibits. Sir Robert and Lady Hamilton were among the visitors.
At the conclusion of the cattle show the special prizes won in both the agricultural and horticultural shows were presented by Mrs W. G. Grant.
The judges were: – Flowers and vegetables – Mr James Scott, Smithy Cottage, Finstown; baking – Mr William T. Moncrieff, of Messrs Jas. Flett & Sons, Kirkwall; handiwork – Miss Rose Leith, Kirkwall; and dairy produce – Miss C. M. Grant, N.D.D., C.D.P.
Judges Comments: Commenting on his section, Mr Scott said the exhibits in the vegetable classes were good, those outstanding being cabbage, lettuce, and onions. The exhibits were much better classed this year. The flower section was an improvement on last year’s show. Stocks were extra good. The show all over was a credit to Rousay. Flowers, however, would be better if classed in numbers.
Miss Grant was well pleased with the dairy produce exhibits. The butter section with forty entries provided the biggest competition she had ever judged in Orkney. Most of the forty entries were of splendid quality. This was no doubt due to the fact that a butter-making class had just closed in the island. Miss Grant hoped that the high standard would be maintained.
Miss Leith was well pleased with the handiwork section. She could not say that there was any improvement in numbers, but the standard of work was maintained. She was particularly pleased to see good work from several schoolboys, and hoped that other boys would be encouraged to enter in future shows.
Mr Moncrieff had little fault to find with the baking exhibits. For a country show he thought the Rousay ladies had given a grand display.
Officials and Helpers: Office-bearers of the Rousay Agricultural and Horticultural Association, who are specially concerned with the horticultural section are: – Deputy secretary, Mr J. W. Grieve, Whitehall; Mrs Kirkness and Misses Mary Mainland and Molly Mainland, and Mr James M. Craigie, who acted as attendants in the exhibition; Mrs H. I. Gibson and Misses Alice Mainland and Teresa Wallace, who served teas; Mrs Inkster, Wasdale; Mrs Shearer, Curquoy; and Miss Robertson, Langskaill, who served meals to the judges and officials; Mr Ronald Shearer, who acted as cashier at the door; and Miss Clara Craigie, Furse, and Messrs James Gibson, Hullion; George Craigie, Falquoy; and William Inkster, Woo, general helpers.
PRIZE LIST. FLOWERS. – Pansies – 1 James S. Gibson, Hullion; 2 Mrs Craigie, Furse; 3 Margaret Lyon, Manse. Carnation – 1 Alice Logie, Ivy Cottage; 2 and 3 Mrs Craigie. Marigolds – 1 James M. Craigie, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Stocks – 1, 2 and 3 Alice Logie. Sweetpeas – 1 and 2 Alice Logie, 3 Mrs G. W. Marwick, Rognvaldshay. Roses – 1 James Craigie, 2 Mrs Craigie, 3 Margaret Lyon. Candytuft – 1 Margaret Lyon, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Night-scented Stock – 1, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Minulas – 1, 2 and 3 Mollie Mainland, Hurtiso. Nemesia – 1 James S. Gibson. Mallon – 1 and 2 George Craigie, Scockness. Antirrhinums – 1 and 2 Alice Logie 3 Margaret Lyon. Single Poppies – 1 and 3 George Craigie, 2 Mrs Craigie. Double Poppies – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson, Ervadale. Nemophlia – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 3 Robert Lyon. Sweet William – 1 Archer Clouston, Upper Knarston, 2 and 3 John Costie, Standpretty. Asters – 1 James S. Gibson, 2 and 3 Alice Logie. Gladioli – 1 Archer Clouston. Chrysanthemums – 1 and 3 George Craigie, 2 Alice Logie. Shirley Poppy – 1 and 2 Mrs Craigie, 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Cornflower – 1 and 3 Mrs Craigie, 2 Mrs G. W. Marwick. Escholtzia – 1 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 2 Thora Kirkness. Single Chrysanthemums – 1 Alice Logie. Virginia Stock – 1 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 2 and 3 Edith Gibson, Bungalow. Nasturtiums – 1 Mrs G. W. Marwick, 2 and 3 Mollie Mainland. Dahlia – 1 and 2 James S. Gibson, 3 Margaret Lyon. Marguerites – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 3 Edith Gibson. Perennial Sweet Pea – 1 Margaret Lyon, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Everlasting Love – 1 and 3 Edith Gibson, 2 Mrs Donaldson, Vacquoy. Garden Vetch – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs Donaldson. Giant Campanula – 1 and 2 Mrs Donaldson. Honeysuckle – 1 Mrs Craigie, 2 Thora Kirkness, 3 George Craigie. Veronica – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs Donaldson. Rambler Roses – 1 and 2 Alice Logie, 3 Margaret Lyon. Balsam – 1 Margaret Lyon. Strawberry Rose – 1 Margaret Lyon. Hollyhock – 1 Margaret Lyon.
VEGETABLES. – Cabbages – 1, 2 and 3 J. M. Craigie, Pier Cottage. Cauliflower – 1 James S. Gibson, 2 James M. Craigie. Lettuce (cabbage) – 1 and 2 Malcolm Hourie, Maybank; 3 James M. Craigie. Lettuce (cos) – 1 James S. Gibson, Hullion, 2 and 3 Mrs Tom Gibson, Broland. White Turnips – 1, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Yellow Turnips – 1, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Parsnips – 1, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Carrots (long) – 1 Malcolm Hourie, 2 James M. Craigie, 3 Mrs Tom Gibson. Carrots (short) – 1 Malcolm Hourie, 2 and 3 James S. Gibson. Leeks – 1 and 3 James M. Craigie, 2 Malcolm Hourie. Parsley – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Orions – I, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Onions (red) – 1, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Shallots – 1 Mrs Craigie, Furse; 2 Mrs. Reid, Tratland; 3 Mrs Clouston, Post Office. Rhubarb – 1, 2 and 3 J. M. Craigie. Radish – 1, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Beet (round) – 1 and 2 James M. Craigie, 3 Malcolm Hourie. Beet (long) – 1 and 2 James S. Gibson, 3 Jas. M. Craigie. Potatoes (long, white) – 1 James M. Craigie, 2 and 3 Molly Mainland. Potatoes (round, white) – 1 Mrs Craigie, 2 Malcolm Hourie. Potatoes (round, coloured) – 1 James Sinclair, Viera Lodge. Potatoes (long, coloured) – 1 and 2 James M. Craigie, 3 Mrs Craigie. Beans – 1, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Peas – 1, 2 and 3 James M. Craigie. Gooseberries – 1 Annie Craigie, Viera Lodge; 2 James Sinclair, 3 Margaret Lyon. Strawberries – 1. 2 and 3 James S. Gibson.
BAKING. – Spice Cakes – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson, Bigland. Shortbread (thick) – 1 Mrs Inkster, Wasdale; 2 Miss Grieve, Cruannie; 3 Miss Mainland, Hurtiso. Iced Cakes – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Shortbread (thin) – 1, 2 and 3 Miss Mainland. Jam Sandwich – 1 Mrs Inkster, 2 Miss Logie, Ivy Cottage; 3 Lily Sinclair, Banks. Swiss Roll – 1 Cissie Sinclair, Banks; 2 Lily Sinclair, Banks; 3 Clara Craigie, Furse. Fruit Cake – 1, 2 and 3 Clara Craigie. Ginger Bread – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 3 Miss Mainland. Cheese Cakes – I, 2 and 3 Miss Mainland. Iced Fancies – 1. 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Raisin Cake – 1 Miss Mainland. Albert Cake – 1 Miss Mainland. Rock Cakes – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Pan Cakes – 1 Mrs Inkster. Drop Scones – 1 Mrs Inkster, 2 Miss Mainland, 3 Kathleen Gibson, Avelshay. Queen Cakes – 1, and 3 Mrs Lyon, Ervadale. Girdle Scones – 1 and 2 Cissie Sinclair, 3 Clara Craigie. Oven Scones – 1 and 2 Cissie Sinclair, 3 Kathleen Gibson. Buns – 1, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Wheatmeal Biscuits – 1, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. London Bun – 1, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Rice Buns – 1, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Melting Moments – 1 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 2 Miss Gibson. Oat Cakes (without shortening) – 1 and 2 Mrs Craigie, Breck, 3 Mrs Gibson, Avelshay. Oat Cakes (with shortening) – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Bere Bannocks – 1 Bella Leonard, 2 and 3 Cissie Sinclair.
PRODUCE. – Fresh Butter. -1 Miss A. M. Robertson, Langskaill; 2 and 3 Mrs G. Reid, Tratland; 4 Hugh Craigie, jr., Scockness. Salt Butter – 1 Miss A. M. Robertson, 2 and 3 Mrs G. Reid; 4 Hugh Craigie, jr. Table Butter – 1 and 2 Miss A. M. Robertson, 3 and 4 Molly Mainland. Sweet Milk Cheese – 1 Mrs Craigie, Scockness; 2 Mrs Craigie, Furse; 3 Margaret Lyon, 4 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Hen Eggs – 1 and 2 Roy Russell, 3 and 4 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Duck Eggs – 1, 2 and 4 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 3 Molly Mainland. Best Trussed Fowl – 1 Alice Logie. Gooseberry Jam – 1 and 3 Alice Logie, 2 Miss Craigie, Veira Lodge. Marmalade – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 3 Mrs Craigie, Furse. Strawberry Jam – 1 Mrs Craigie, Furse; 2 Miss T. S. Mathieson, 3 Clara Craigie, Furse. Blackcurrant Jam – 1 and 2 Robert Inkster, Cogar. Blackcurrant Jelly – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Rhubarb and Ginger Jam – 1 Mrs J. W. Grieve, 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Rhubarb and Blackcurrant Jam – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Rhubarb and Fig Jam – 1, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Gooseberry Jelly – 1 Miss T. S. Mathieson, 2 Mrs G. W. Marwick. Apricot Jam – 1, 2 and 3 Thora Kirkness. Mixed Jams – 1 and 2 Mrs J. W. Grieve. Chutney and Entree – 1 Miss T. S. Mathieson.
HANDIWORK. – Cushion and Cushion Cover – 1, 2 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Needle Weaving – 1 Alice Mainland, Hurtiso; 2 Mollie Mainland, Hurtiso. Tea or Supper Cloth – 1 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 2 and 3 Alice Mainland. Table Centre – 1 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Pillow cases – 1 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Knitted Shawls – 1 and 2 Mrs Inkster, Woo. Knitted Socks (home-spun) – 1 Kathleen Gibson, 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 3 Mrs Craigie, Furse. Child’s Cap – 1 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Child’s Socks – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson. Homespun Wool – 1 and 3 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 2 Mrs Harrold, Springfield. Knitting – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson, 3 Kathleen Gibson. Knitted Cardigan – 1 and 2 Mrs J. Gibson, Bungalow.
JUVENILE SECTION. – Embroidered Cushion – 1 Nellie Harcus, Clumpy; 2 Agnes Marwick, Wasbister School; 3 Clementina Donaldson, Wasbister School. Embroidered Apron – 1 Clara Donaldson, Wasbister School. Embroidered Tray Cloth – 1 Nellie Harcus. Embroidered Runner – 1 William Donaldson, Wasbister School. Plain Sewing – 1 Nellie Harcus, Clumpy (petticoat ); 2 Clementina Donaldson, Wasbister School (nightdress.) Cane Work – 1 and 3 James Sinclair, Wasbister School; 2 James Craigie, Wasbister School. Raffia Work – 1 James R. Sinclair, Wasbister School; 2 James Sinclair, 3 James Craigie. Knitted Slip – 1 William Donaldson.
SPECIAL PRIZES. – Messrs James Flett & Sons’ (merchants, Kirkwall) medal for most points in dairy section – Mrs H. I. Gibson. Mr John Sclater’s (draper, Kirkwall) prize for best pot of preserves – Mr Robert Inkster. Mr George Reid’s (chemist, Kirkwall) prize for best jam sandwich – Mrs Inkster, Wasdale. Mrs W. G. Grant’s prize for best butter – Miss Robertson, Langskaill. Messrs Cumming & Spence’s (merchants, Kirkwall) rosebowl for best butter – Miss Robertson. Mr J. F. Groundwater’s (merchant, Kirkwall), prize for dropped scones – Mrs Inkster, Wasdale. Lady Hamilton’s prizes for oatcakes – 1 and 2 Mrs H. I. Gibson; for bere bread – 1 Miss B. Leonard, Quoys; 2 Miss Cissie Sinclair. Messrs P. L. Johnston’s (drapers, Stromness), prize for most points in baking section – Mrs H. I. Gibson. Mr J. S. Gibson’s prize for best trussed fowl – Alice Logie. Mr David Dunnet’s (dentist, Kirkwall) cup for most successful exhibitor in vegetable section – James M. Craigie. Messrs R. Garden, Ltd.’s (merchants, Kirkwall) prize for most points in industrial section – Mrs H. I. Gibson. Messrs George Rendall & Co.’s (drapers, Kirkwall) prize for sweet milk cheese – Mrs Craigie, Scockness. Special prize for most exhibits – Mrs H. I. Gibson.
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PRESENTATION TO MISS C. H. M. GRANT.
Members of Rousay Class show their Appreciation.
A very pleasant little ceremony took place at the dance held in the Sourin Hall after the annual show of the Rousay Agricultural Society on Tuesday of last week. Just before the after-supper dance was announced, Mr John R. Wallace, M.A., spoke briefly of the enthusiasm and interest which Miss Grant, of the North of Scotland College of Agriculture, had shown in connection with her work in Rousay. He said that the Sourin butter-making class realised this even more fully, and he had great pleasure in calling upon Miss Grant to accept a pearl necklace as a small memento of her Sourin butter class. Amidst laughter and applause, he clasped the pearls round her neck.
In reply, Miss Grant said that she had thoroughly enjoyed her short stay in Rousay, and the large attendance at the butter class had made her work all the more interesting. She was also very gratified at the large entry of butter at the show, and had had great difficulty in allotting the prizes. She hoped that the high standard of the butter would be maintained, and that the Rousay produce would get a good market. She thanked them once again for their great kindness to her.
The Sourin butter class has been held in Rousay for the last six weeks. Twenty-two members, six men and sixteen women, were enrolled, and all took part in the examination held on Thursday, 2nd August, at which Mr Allan, County Organiser, watched and examined the process of the butter making.
1934 August 29 Orkney Herald
EVIE – SUMMER RETURNS. – Old St Swithin has had his innings, his term expiring last Thursday, after an exaction of his forty wet days. General delight was expressed when King Sol, long banished, came forth and asserted himself, dispelling the rain and the clouds, and uncovering the blue skies. Brilliant sunshine lightened and transformed the earth, and summer returned all at once. The weekend was particularly fine, Sunday being one of the loveliest days of the season with an exquisite evening of bright moonlight and “Merry Dancers.”
1934 September 5 Orkney Herald
HIGHLAND AIRWAYS ‘PLANE WRECKED AT KIRKWALL
Eight People Involved in Mail ‘Plane Crash
No Serious Injury – Mails Intact.
A Highland Airways’ machine was wrecked and eight people had an alarming experience when the Inverness-bound mail ‘plane crashed while taking off from Kirkwall airport on Wednesday afternoon.
Apparently the sodden state of the flying field after continuous heavy rain prevented the machine from attaining sufficient speed to make a good take off. In crossing over the dyke at the southern boundary of the flying field the ‘plane had gained barely enough height to clear it. The tail struck a wire on top of the dyke, and the plane dived into a shallow quarry just beyond. The machine rebounded from the bottom of the quarry, the under-carriage and motors struck the upper part of the face, and the plane crumpled up in a turnip field at the edge of the quarry. It landed on its smashed undercarriage, but the floor and side of the cabin were burst open. The pilot, Mr Coleman, was flung through the cabin window by the force of the impact. The liner was totally wrecked. Both propellers and engine cowlings were smashed, the under carriage was doubled up under the body, the tail torn right off and the cabin fabric splintered and burst.
Fortunately none of the passengers was seriously injured. Dr Peterkin was summoned to the flying field by Mr Jack Redshaw, driver of the mail van which had just delivered the south-going mails to the ‘plane. The doctor’s services, however, were not required, for, although possibly more seriously hurt than any of the other occupants, the pilot rendered first aid. The pilot’s face was rather deeply cut, and he was detained for a short time in Garden Memorial Hospital. One lady passenger had a slightly injured shoulder; another had to have her leg bandaged, and a gentleman was knocked unconscious, but quickly recovered. All the other passengers were uninjured…..
BAYERN RAISED. – 28,000 Ton Cruiser Raised 20 Fathoms in 30 Seconds. – On Saturday the eighty workmen and divers of Metal Industries, Ltd., saw a successful outcome to their eight months of arduous preparation. At ten o’clock in the morning the German battle cruiser Bayern rose from the bed of Scapa Flow, twenty fathoms below, where she had lain since June 1919, and now lies afloat with eighteen feet of freeboard – bottom up, of course…..
1934 October 24 Orkney Herald
EVIE – SEASON. – October has brought much change to the countryside – first came the restoration of the borrowed hour, which seemed to plunge us into long, dark nights so suddenly. Almost simultaneously came a change of weather to colder, crisper conditions, under which the face of the country soon assumed a different aspect. The pageantry of summer has gradually passed, and increasing signs of the declining year are in evidence. Fields robbed of their bounty now look dead and drab, and though green still predominates autumn tints are asserting themselves in fading flower and falling leaf. Recent rude winds have played havoc with foliage and flower, and the trees are stripped much earlier than usual. Fallen leaves bestrew the garden paths and lawns, swirling and collecting in every corner. At this season of decay, when earth loses colour and the country ceases to attract, as if to compensate, skies become more beautiful, and there are afternoons of glowing colours with wonderful cloudscapes, and dark nights bejewelled with stars.
1934 November 7 Orkney Herald
CONCERT AND DANCE IN ROUSAY. – A very successful concert was given in Wasbister School on Friday, 26th October, by the Wasbister concert party and friends in aid of Balfour Hospital, Kirkwall. Admission to the concert was by silver collection, and the sum of £4 10s was realised. This was augmented to the total of £5 5s. The school room was very tastefully decorated for the evening by a band of willing workers residing in the district, and was filled to its utmost seating accommodation by a large and very appreciative audience.
Rev. R. R. Davidson made a very worthy chairman during the concert, which occupied two crowded hours. Mrs G. Sinclair, home on furlough with her husband from Shanghai, made a very efficient accompanist to the musical items, while Mr G. Sinclair carried out the duties of stage manager in a very able manner.
Mrs. A. P. Booth, of Durban, South Africa, who is spending a holiday in Rousay, after an absence of several years, gave great pleasure to the audience by the fine rendering of several songs, and was heartily encored.
The programme was excellent, and is the more creditable considering the very short time the concert party had to rehearse the production. The whole show went with a swing from start to finish, and seemed to come to an end all too soon. Two items which were greeted with prolonged applause were the trio, “Old King Cole,” sung by Messrs Hugh Gibson, George Craigie and James Clouston, and a delightful rendering of the duet, “The Crookit Bawbee,” by Mrs A. Booth and Mr Hugh Gibson.
The organiser, Mr R. A. Inkster, wishes to thank the audience for their hearty response to the concert, which helped so much to make it such a success, also to thank all those who took any part in the work.
After the concert the room was cleared for a dance, which was entered into with great spirit. Splendid music was supplied by the Amateur Dramatic Band, Mrs Moar, Saviskaill, and Mr Wallace at the piano, and on the violins by Messrs J. W. Grieve, Hugh Gibson and Sinclair Craigie.
[George Sinclair, born in 1893, was the son of Robert Sinclair, Stennisgorn, later Sketquoy, and Margaret Flaws, Hammerfield. George’s wife was Mary Lillian Inkster, known as Lilla. Born in 1894, she was the daughter of William (‘Fiery Bill’) Inkster, Cogar, and his first wife Jean Learmonth, Innister. Mrs A. P. Booth, mentioned in the third paragraph, was Lilla’s sister Annie who was married to Mr Alex Booth, of Durban, South Africa.]
1934 December 12 Orkney Herald
EVIE – AN OLD RESIDENTER PASSES. – Many will hear with regret of the death of Mr William Rendall, farmer, Shortie, who, at the age of 86, passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning after an illness of about three weeks. Up till that time, Mr Rendall was in his usual health, strong and vigorous in the pursuit of his daily duties. To eke out a livelihood drawn from the croft he went to the fishing and was an ardent fisher. Being ever fond of the sea, in his younger days he was oftener on the water than on the land, and had a thorough understanding of the tideways round about Eynhallow, as well as a close acquaintance with the fishing grounds. An intrepid seaman, he would put to sea when the winds howled and the waves rose high, battling with the elements in his little craft with a courage and calm which many envied. Nothing delighted him more than narrating tales of the sea, past and present, many of which had been handed down from his grandfather, who was a whaler. As late as July this year he took part in the Rousay regatta, competing with his boat in the race with the joy and zest of youth. A familiar figure in this district, having spent all his life in Evie – latterly the sole remaining member of his family here – he will be greatly missed among the neighbours with whom he always maintained the most friendly relations. Mr Rendall is survived by his widow – a nonagenarian for whom much sympathy is felt in the loneliness and sorrow of her bereavement. She was Miss Katherine Leask of the neighbouring farm of Quoys. The funeral took place today (Tuesday) to Evie Churchyard.
1934 December 19 Orkney Herald
ROUSAY – FANCY DRESS BALL. – Under the auspices of the Rousay Amateur Dramatic Society, a fancy dress ball was held in the Recreation Hall on the evening of Friday, the 14th Dec. The hall was gaily decorated for the occasion with coloured streamers and evergreens, which added a festive touch to the scene. The weather being favourable, a large crowd of revellers assembled. Many and varied were the costumes displayed, both artistic and original. Although the Loch Ness monster was not on view, an equine species, of the utility rather than the showyard type, made an appearance and created much amusement. The parade began at 9.30, and the judging was in the capable hands of Mrs Wallace, Schoolhouse; Mrs Corsie, Glebe, and Mr Wm. Walls, Store Cottage, who had no easy task in selecting the prize-winners. Mrs Booth, from Durban, very gracefully handed out the prizes. Hearty votes of thanks were accorded the judges and to Mrs Booth. Tea was then served, after which dancing proceeded merrily to the strains of the Dramatic Society Band, under the leadership of Mr R. Inkster, Cogar. A break in the festivities was made at 1.30, when tea was again served, after which dancing was continued until 3 a.m. The catering was in the able hands of Mrs Hugh Gibson and Mr James Grieve. Annexed is the prize list: –
Most artistic lady, Miss Mollie Mainland (Hawaiian girl); most artistic gent., Mr Malcolm Hourie (Persian Prince); most original lady, Mrs G. W. Marwick (Orkney Air Mail); most original gent., Mr Jack Wallace (Sourin Butter Class 1934); best advertisement, lady, Miss Anna Mathieson (Cure for Flu); best advertisement, gent., Mr Hugh Marwick (Silver Shred Marmalade); best character from nursery rhyme or fairy tale, Miss Ruby Brown (The Toy Drum-Major); most comical, Mr Magnus Craigie (The Irish Sweep); section for school children – most artistic, Ann Lyon (A Doll); most original, Ernie Mainland (Plus Fours); most comical, David Gibson (Mickey Mouse).