Tweet
CONTENTS
--------
Electric Scotland News
Electric Scotland Community
The Flag in the Wind
Historical Tales of the Wars of Scotland
Glencreggan: or A Highland Home in Cantire
Kay's Edinburgh Portraits
Robert Burns Lives!
Places of Interest about Girvan
Poems of George Alexander Rodger
William and Louisa Anderson
Holiday Cottages
Wyntoun's Original Chronicle
The Annandale Family Book
Asiatics in America
Gladstaines
Rant on the Travel Trade
The Highland Clans of Scotland: Their History and Traditions
Electric Scotland News
----------------------
It sure has been an interesting week one way or another.
We had the Royal Wedding which I did watch and very much enjoyed it. One channel was recording it live but also said they'd replay the whole wedding at 11am EST so that was that was the one I watched.
I particulary liked one of the sermons so added it to our religion forum at http://www.electricscotland.org/show...erine#post4776
-----
Then we had the Canadian elections which were historic. The Conservative party ended up with a majority which was historic enough but more was to follow...
The Liberal party who had been in power for most of the 20th century went down to an all time low with just 34 seats and the leader also lost his seat. The NDP who had been a weak third place shot to over 100 seats and virtually took over Quebec where the BLOC had reigned supreme but in this election their leader also lost his seat and they only managed to get 4 seats. You need 12 seats to be an officially recognised party.
And then the Green party managed to get 1 seat which is the very first seat they have ever managed to get.
So all in all an historic election for Canada.
-----
Then of course we heard of the killing of Bin Laden. While great rejoicing around the world the terror alert status is likely at an all time high with the world uncertain what might happen as a result.
-----
Then tonight we also have the Scottish elections. At time of writing this the results are only just coming in.
I did however hear that our old friend Linda Fabiani has won the East Kilbride constituency from Labour so well done to her.
And as I Watch further have just learnt that Christina McKelvie has just won her constituency so well done to her as well. I'm told that this constituency was 22nd on the list that the SNP wanted to get so that indicates just how well this might be for them.
The very early indications are that the Labour party are losing votes but the Lib-Dems are seeing a collapse in their vote which seems to be mostly going to the SNP. So at this stage as I put this newsletter to bed it's looking very good for the SNP.
You can watch progress at http://news.stv.tv/election-2011/live/
-----
Next week I'll be starting the book, The History of Fettercairn. I got in an email from the Wood Clan saying they have a meeting shortly and would love to read this book as it covers the area where the Wood clan have their home. And so I've brought that forward so they can have a read prior to their meeting.
This also prompted me to ask the question... is there a book out there that is based in your own clan lands? If there is and you know the title and it's also out of copyright then do let me know and I'll see if I can get a copy to add to the site.
-----
Scotland’s last traditional tartan weaving mill, whose tartans have been worn by the Queen, Nelson Mandela, Ivana Trump, Neil Armstrong and Arnold Palmer, has been rescued from closure with a last minute takeover by the owners of Edinburgh-based tartan goods website, Scotweb. As the only surviving tartan weaver of its kind, closure would have meant the loss forever of a major Scottish tradition and centuries of specialist skills.
D.C. Dalgliesh Ltd, of Selkirk, Scotland, is the only weaver in the world still producing all its tartans to authentic traditional standards. But the mill has struggled to compete in the face of cheap imports, with 17 highly-skilled artisan jobs at risk.
Scotweb directors Dr Nick Fiddes and Dr Adele Telford were long-term customers of the mill, as the world’s largest online retailers of tartan goods and products (see www.scotweb.co.uk ). A takeover seemed the perfect fit.
Dr Fiddes said, “We are delighted that we’ve been able to step up and save this vital and wonderful part of Scotland’s heritage. This tartan weaver wasn’t just another small business going to the wall. If this mill had gone, 90% of all tartans would never have been produced again. It would have been the end of centuries of tradition.”
"No other weaver produces tartans of the same quality. And no other mill can weave you just enough for a single garment in your own family tartan, which is what most tartan enthusiasts want. A really important part of Scotland’s identity would have been lost forever.”
With the unrivalled quality of the mill’s products, Drs Fiddes & Telford are committed putting D.C. Dalgliesh back on the map as a beacon of excellence for Scottish tartan weaving, and intend to take the business from strength-to-strength.
A new D.C. Dalgliesh website will be launched today along with a video, displaying the history, skills and production of D.C. Dalgliesh tartans. See http://www.dcdalgliesh.co.uk
ABOUT THE STORIES
-----------------
Some of the stories in here are just parts of a larger story so do check out the site for the full versions. You can always find the link in our "What's New" section in our site menu and at http://www.electricscotland.com/rss/whatsnew.php
Electric Scotland Community
---------------------------
One thing I do enjoy about our Community is the way old faces are appearing that used to be with us in our old community many years ago.
we got in a message telling us that Australia is now the home of the longest lived soldier from the First World War. An amazing chap by all accounts.
Our community can be viewed at http://www.electricscotland.org but of course if you are reading this you're already in it :-)
THE FLAG IN THE WIND
--------------------
This weeks issue is now available compiled by Jim Lynch in which he reveals the last opinion polls. It's looking good for the SNP but we won't know the results until tomorrow. I had thought they might have held the Flag so as to get the results but guess they wanted to stick to their deadline.
You can get to the Flag at http://www.scotsindependent.org
Historical Tales of the Wars of Scotland
----------------------------------------
And of the Border Raids, Forays and Conflicts by John Parker Lawson (1839). This is a new publication we're starting on which is in 3 volumes. We intend to post up 2 or 3 stories each week until complete.
This week we've added...
Battle of Kilsyth - 1645
You can read this account at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/wars/
Glencreggan: or A Highland Home in Cantire
------------------------------------------
By Cuthbert Bede (1861)
This week we're on the Appendix with...
The Cantire Life-Boat
You can read this at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/glencreggan/
Kay's Edinburgh Portraits
-------------------------
A Series of Anecdotal Biographies chiefly of Scotchmen, Mostly by James Paterson and Edited by James Maidment (1885)
This week we have added...
Lord Polkemmet
James Gillespie, Esq., of Spylaw, and his Brother John Gillespie
Andrew Donaldson, Teacher of Greek and Hebrew
Thomas Sommers, His Majesty's Glazier for Scotland
Mr. and Mrs. Lee Lewes, at the Edinburgh Theatre
Colonel Monro, a well-known Blue-Gown Beggar
An interesting account of Thomas Sommers, His Majesty's Glazier for Scotland, which starts...
Thomas Sommers—the friend and biographer of Fergusson the poet— was originally from Lanarkshire. He came to Edinburgh early in life; so early iudeed, that he may be said to have been brought up in the city almost from infancy. He first became acquainted with Fergusson in 1756, who, then in the sixth year of his age, was a pupil of Mr. Philp, an English teacher in Niddry's Wynd, and who was on terms of intimacy with Mr. Sommers.
After finishing his apprenticeship as a glazier, Sommers proceeded to London. He was then about twenty years of age; and shortly after his arrival, as he used frequently to relate, he had the satisfaction of witnessing the coronation of George III. and his consort. In the capital he found good employment for several years; and he was enabled, on his return to Edinburgh, to commence business for himself, by opening a paint and glazier's shop in the Parliament Square.
Possessed of an education much superior to most of his contemporaries in the same station of life, Mr. Sommers soon acquired influence in the mangement of Mary's Chapel. "The United Incorporation of Mary's Chapel consists of the following crafts :—Wrights, masons, bowyers, glaziers, plumbers, upholsterers, painters, slaters, sievewrights, and coopers. This community has, in Niddry's Wynd, a modern hall, for holding their meetings. It is called Mary's Chapel, having been originally a chapel dedicated to the Blessed Virgin."— Arnot's Hist, of Edin. Two deacons are annually chosen; one to represent the wrights, and another the masons. Some years ago, the election of Deacon for Mary's Chapel was a matter of very great importance. He was elected Deacon of the Masons in 1770-1, and again in 1776. In the latter year, remarkable in the annals of the Council for a keen contest for supremacy, he espoused the side of Sir Laurence Dundas, through whose interest he procured the appointment of "His Majesty's Glazier for Scotland."
A taste for literature had been early imbibed by Mr. Sommers; and, although thirteen years the senior of Fergusson, a reciprocity of sentiment produced a warm and steady intimacy betwixt them. With Woods, the Scottish Roscius, as he was termed, and several other friends of the Poet, he was well acquainted, and long after the latter had closed his short and ill-fated career, they continued to cherish his memory with the utmost affection. Possessing considerable facility in composition, with pretty extensive general knowledge, his acquirements were well calculated to elevate him above the level of the great mass of his fellow-citizens. In the Corporation, of which he was a member, and while one of the Town Council, Mr. Sommers stood pre-eminent—frequently astonishing his brethren, accustomed as they were to conversational debates, by the force of his arguments and the flights of his fancy. Interested in all public matters, he was ever zealous for the public good; and the humanity and kindness of his disposition invariably led him, as a member of Mary's Chapel, to advocate warmly the cause of the necessitous, who had claims on the Incorporation. As may be inferred, "His Majesty's Glazier" possessed a truly social temper. He was a member of the well known Cape Club, and for several years Secretary to the Grand Lodge of Freemasons, by whom he was regarded as an oracle.
You can read the rest of this entry at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/kays/vol248.htm
The other entries can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/kays/index.htm
Robert Burns Lives!
-------------------
By Frank Shaw
Robert Burns & Pastoral By Nigel Leask
I met Nigel Leask in January of this year while attending the one-day conference Burns and Beyond hosted by the Centre for Robert Burns Studies at the University of Glasgow. I had heard great things about Nigel’s prize-winning book, and I was pleased to note in the symposium materials that he was to be the keynote speaker. Following the conference, the speakers were invited to dinner at a rather trendy tapas bar in Glasgow called the Café Andaluz. The tables were small and I was lucky enough to sit across from Nigel, so our conversation was for me a night to remember. I found Nigel to be engaging and informative, and he exuded a degree of warmth that left me feeling as if I had known him since school days, and at my age that would have been a long time ago! Below is a review of his book that I have wanted to share with our readers since the conference, but the outpouring of articles from many of the conference speakers has postponed it until now. Here is a tip to those who know their Burns…buy this book to increase your knowledge and you may become what others call you - a Burns scholar.
You can read this article at http://www.electricscotland.com/fami...s_lives119.htm
All of the Robert Burns articles can be found at http://www.electricscotland.com/fami...rank/burns.htm
Places of Interest about Girvan
-------------------------------
By Rev. R. Lawson (1892).
We put up this week...
Straiton
Barr
In Carrick
Two Letters of Peden hitherto unpublished
Some Carrick Epitaphs
Carrick Heraldic Mottoes
Smuggling in Carrick
Some Carrick Originals
Some Carrick Place-Names
The account of Some Carrick Originals starts...
JAMIE BAIRD was one of our Girvan Naturals in my boyhood's days, and was wont to accost the postman with—"Hae ye ony letters for my faither the day?"—"No, Jamie."—"Will ye hae ony the morn—a question which rather puzzled the man of letters. Jamie Scott was another of the weakminded brotherhood. On one occasion, he was summoned before a Commissioner on lunacy, who was accompanied by Mr Matthew Scott, our Inspector of Poor, and a staunch teetotaller. The Commissioner offered Jamie a dram, having heard he was fond of it, but Jamie, suspecting a trap, sidled out, saying—"Na, I'm no for ony; but giet to Matthew there, he's the boy can nip it.
Jock Aird, who died Dec, 1891, was the last of our Public Naturals. He was born, as he died, in the parish of Kirkmichael, but his wandering habits brought him under the notice of all the mischievous boys in Carrick. His portrait is given at the head of this paper. He used to be sorely tormented by the evil disposed, but was accounted a privileged person by all else. His appearance was unique, and his behaviour was in keeping with his appearance. Small in stature, shabby in dress, but always wearing an air of refined conceit which proved an irresistible temptation to the boys. Jock's appearance in the town was the invariable signal for a crowd. "Chin," "Craw," "Nosey," were the opprobrious names with which he was hailed, and which soon raised Jock to the boiling point. He would stop, threaten, flourish his stick, run after one or two of the more conspicuous, appeal to the passers-by to be relieved of his tormentors—but all to no purpose. He got no peace till he left the town again.
You can read the rest of this chapter at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist.../chapter36.htm
You can read the other chapters at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...rvan/index.htm
Poems of George Alexander Rodger
--------------------------------
Added another poem, Harvest Memories, which you can read at http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/rodger08.htm
The other poems can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/rodger.htm
William and Louisa Anderson
---------------------------
A record of their Life and Work in Jamaica and Old Calabar by William Markwick (1897)
we now have up...
Part I
Early Days in Scotland, 1812-1839
Chapter 1
1812-1817 - Parentage—Buckholmside—Dalkeith—Ford— Newbattle Tollhouse
Chapter 2
1817-1819 - Clayhouses—Preaching—Ideas of Ministers and their Office— "Diet of visitation" — "Seeking the Lord"
Chapter 3
1819-1823 - Reading—Sports—Schoolboy Days—Death of Aunt—Death of Father
Chapter 4
1823-1828 - Sorrows—"Summer Sacrament"—Sabbath School—Reading—Ideal World—Journey to Haddington—Departure from Ford—Nettlingflat— Engagement to go to Fala Mains
Chapter 5
1828-1831 - Fala South Mains—Avocations—Reading—Preaching
Chapter 6
1831-1834 - Ford — Chestcrhill - Blackdub —Reading— Preparation for Communion—Admission to the Church—Sabbath School Teaching
Chapter 7
1834-1838 - Residence in Dalkeith—Death of Friends—First Speech—Engagement to go to Jamaica under the Scottish Missionary Society
Chapter 8
1839 - Leaving Dalkeith—Attendance at Sessional School, Edinburgh - Last Communion at Ford—Glasgow—Galashiels—Farewell Meetings
Part II
Jamaica Period, 1839-1848
Chapter 1
Voyage to Jamaica—Arrival—First Impressions and Beginning of Work
Chapter 2
Catechist and Teacher at Carron Hall and Evangelist at Rose Hill — Engagement to Miss Louisa Peterswald
In the first chapter of his Jamaica Period we learn...
On Monday, Nov. 11th, 1839, Mr. Anderson and his companions, Messrs. Scott and Buchanan, set sail in the Christian. Contrary winds prevailed, and on the 14th the vessel was driven back into Lamlash Bay. On the 15th, Mr. Anderson was very happy to be on terra firma again, and, accompanied by Mr. Scott, took a pretty long walk on Arran. Peats and hills reminded him of old days at Fala—Soutra Hill and the Red Brae. On the 30th, Mr. Anderson wrote in his Journal:—
We left Lamlash on the morning of the 18th. Since then I have been sea-sick both night and day. A year to-day I offered myself to the Scottish Missionary Society.
He employed himself chiefly in reading, and remarked that for many years he had not had so much time for reading. While lying sick, he read the greater part of Williams' Narrative of South Sea Islands Mission. A few extracts from his Journal may be given.
On December 8th he preached for the first time on board:—
Delightful day. Awning up for the first time. Preached on deck from Acts xvi. 30, 31. Seamen very attentive. Distributed tracts after sermon. They were eagerly received. . . .
The want of my luggage putting me to inconvenience, Captain M'Nielage kindly gave me a light coat, which is more suitable for our present temperature than my own. I may jot down here that Captain M'.N. has been very kind to me during my protracted seasickness. Frequently he slipped into our berth with a bottle of ginger beer, which generally relieved me for a short time. . . .
Monday, 9.— Began to read an old acquaintance—Dick's Christian Philosopher, and a new acquaintance—Harris's Great Teacher. Feel as much delighted with Dick as when I read him nine years ago by "the farmer's ingle." On reading Harris, feel ashamed and confounded for having heretofore paid so little attention to the gracious words which proceeded out of the Saviour's mouth, though I have read them so frequently ; and have resolved to make them the subject of special study for the future. . . .
Saturday, 21.— Finished the reading of Harris's Great Teacher. As a whole, it scarcely comes up to my expectations. . . .
Friday, 27. Captain M'N. captured a dolphin yesterday. The change of colours in a dying dolphin is really wonderful.
Saturday, 28.— I am beginning to enjoy sea-life. Have much reason for gratitude.
Sabbath, Dec. 29.—Mr. Buchanan was to have preached to-day, but was not prepared. I would have taken his place, but was feeling squeamish. The captain desired service, and at his request I conducted worship in the cabin in the evening. . . .
Monday, 30.— By way of recreation, engaged to-day with several fellow-passengers in a rather novel employment, namely, the manufacture of ginger beer! The captain kindly supplied us with material, and we managed to brew something drinkable. He also kindly added a jacket to my scanty wardrobe.
Mr. Anderson spent the closing hours of the year in fond recollection of old friends at Ford, and on New Year's Day 1840 re-dedicated himself to the service of God. He wrote in his Journal:—
Tuesday, 31.—Between 6 and 7 P.M. in Scotland. I can imagine that I see the stars shining brightly over the lovely vale where flows the little river Tyne. A hard frost has probably taken the ground. My aunt—poor body—has by this time got her house "redd up for the New Year," and is enjoying her pipe by her wee fireside, probably wondering where her laddie is and what he is doing. Nearly four thousand miles of ocean roll between her and me. Old George Miller may have taken his seat at the other side of the fire, and the two may be enjoying a laugh at the guizards. But there is a sort of hurry to-night—Lizzie and young George have still to go to Pathhead for some commodities yet awanting. Miss Herdman looks in, but has no time to sit down. Bell (Mrs. Elliot's servant) has been at Pathhead, and can only look in and speak a kindly word in passing.
Peace be with all the loved ones in my native land!
You can read the rest of this chapter at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...derson2-01.htm
You can read the other chapters at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...rson/index.htm
Holiday Cottages
----------------
Got a wee article in "Redefine your holiday experience" which you can read at http://www.electricscotland.com/travel/holiday39.htm
Wyntoun's Original Chronicle
----------------------------
A review of this Chronicle and a copy of it. This is one of the oldest histories of Scotland.
I spotted a review of Wyntoun's Original Chronicle in the Scottish Review and as he was one of Scotland's first real historians thought it would be interesting to share this with you...
The review can be read in pdf format at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...un/wyntoun.pdf
And I have sourced a copy of a 3 volume version of his history in pdf format should you wish to read it at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/wyntoun/
The Annandale Family Book
-------------------------
Here is a book about the Johnstone clan.
I came across an article in the Scottish Review giving a review of this 2 volume book. I decided to extract the review from the pdf version and supply it for you to read.
I then found a pdf version of this book and so also provide both volumes for you to read in pdf format...
The Annandale Family Book of the Johnstones, Earls and Marquises of Annandale. By Sir William Fraser, K.C.B., LL.D. 2 vols., 4to. Edinburgh: 1894.
You can read this at http://www.electricscotland.com/webc.../johnson4.html
Asiatics in America
-------------------
I discovered this article in an old copy of the Scottish Review c1890 which tries to trace the origin of the native indian peoples of North and South America. This is a pdf file which can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist..._americans.pdf
Gladstaines
-----------
I was delighted to find a small account of this family as for years we've had a page about them only saying we had yet to find any information about them.
And so we now at last have something which you can read at
http://www.electricscotland.com/webc...adstaines2.htm
Rant on the Travel Trade
------------------------
I confess to being a bit annoyed with the lack of vision and transparency in the Travel trade around the world so made a video to express by dissatisfaction.
It's just that over the years I've contacted the travel organisations all over the world to seek help in providing pictures and information on areas I've featured on the site and have never received any assistance at all from them. I thus got a bit fed up with it all and to get rid of some of my frustrations I made this video which you can see at http://www.electricscotland.org/show...Trade#post4776
The Highland Clans of Scotland: Their History and Traditions
------------------------------------------------------------
by George Eyre-Todd
This is a two volume publication which we've added to our site. You can download this publication at the foot of the page at http://www.electricscotland.com/webc...land_clans.htm
It comes with some one hundred and twenty two illustrations and is in pdf format.
And finally...
Forrest Gump
The day finally arrived. Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. He is at the Pearly Gates, met by St. Peter himself. However, the gates are closed, and Forrest approaches the gatekeeper.
St. Peter said, "Well, Forrest, it is certainly good to see you. We have heard a lot about you. I must tell you, though, that the place is filling up fast, and we have been administering an entrance examination for everyone. The test is short, but you have to pass it before you can get into Heaven."
Forrest responds, "It sure is good to be here, St. Peter, sir. But nobody ever told me about any entrance exam. I sure hope that the test ain't too hard. Life was a big enough test as it was."
St. Peter continued, "Yes, I know, Forrest, but the test is only three questions.
First:
What two days of the week begin with the letter T?
Second:
How many seconds are there in a year?
Third:
What is God's first name?"
Forrest leaves to think the questions over. He returns the next day and sees St. Peter, who waves him up, and says, "Now that you have had a chance to think the questions over, tell me your answers"
Forrest replied, "Well, the first one -- which two days in the week begins with the letter "T"? Shucks, that one is easy. That would be Today and Tomorrow."
The Saint's eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, "Forrest, that is not what I was thinking, but you do have a point, and I guess I did not specify, so I will give you credit for that answer. How about the next one?" asked St. Peter.
"How many seconds in a year?
Now that one is harder," replied Forrest, but I thunk and thunk about that, and I guess the only answer can be twelve."
Astounded, St. Peter said, "Twelve? Twelve? Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?"
Forrest replied, "Shucks, there's got to be twelve: January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd... "
"Hold it," interrupts St. Peter. "I see where you are going with this, and I see your point, though that was not quite what I had in mind....but I will have to give you credit for that one, too. Let us go on with the third and final question.
Can you tell me God's first name"?
"Sure," Forrest replied, "it's Andy."
"Andy?" exclaimed an exasperated and frustrated St Peter.
"Ok, I can understand how you came up with your answers to my first two questions, but just how in the world did you come up with the name Andy as the first name of God?"
"Shucks, that was the easiest one of all," Forrest replied. "I learnt it from the song, "ANDY WALKS WITH ME, ANDY TALKS WITH ME, ANDY TELLS ME I AM HIS OWN."
And that's it for now and hope you all have a good weekend.
Alastair
http://www.electricscotland.com
--------
Electric Scotland News
Electric Scotland Community
The Flag in the Wind
Historical Tales of the Wars of Scotland
Glencreggan: or A Highland Home in Cantire
Kay's Edinburgh Portraits
Robert Burns Lives!
Places of Interest about Girvan
Poems of George Alexander Rodger
William and Louisa Anderson
Holiday Cottages
Wyntoun's Original Chronicle
The Annandale Family Book
Asiatics in America
Gladstaines
Rant on the Travel Trade
The Highland Clans of Scotland: Their History and Traditions
Electric Scotland News
----------------------
It sure has been an interesting week one way or another.
We had the Royal Wedding which I did watch and very much enjoyed it. One channel was recording it live but also said they'd replay the whole wedding at 11am EST so that was that was the one I watched.
I particulary liked one of the sermons so added it to our religion forum at http://www.electricscotland.org/show...erine#post4776
-----
Then we had the Canadian elections which were historic. The Conservative party ended up with a majority which was historic enough but more was to follow...
The Liberal party who had been in power for most of the 20th century went down to an all time low with just 34 seats and the leader also lost his seat. The NDP who had been a weak third place shot to over 100 seats and virtually took over Quebec where the BLOC had reigned supreme but in this election their leader also lost his seat and they only managed to get 4 seats. You need 12 seats to be an officially recognised party.
And then the Green party managed to get 1 seat which is the very first seat they have ever managed to get.
So all in all an historic election for Canada.
-----
Then of course we heard of the killing of Bin Laden. While great rejoicing around the world the terror alert status is likely at an all time high with the world uncertain what might happen as a result.
-----
Then tonight we also have the Scottish elections. At time of writing this the results are only just coming in.
I did however hear that our old friend Linda Fabiani has won the East Kilbride constituency from Labour so well done to her.
And as I Watch further have just learnt that Christina McKelvie has just won her constituency so well done to her as well. I'm told that this constituency was 22nd on the list that the SNP wanted to get so that indicates just how well this might be for them.
The very early indications are that the Labour party are losing votes but the Lib-Dems are seeing a collapse in their vote which seems to be mostly going to the SNP. So at this stage as I put this newsletter to bed it's looking very good for the SNP.
You can watch progress at http://news.stv.tv/election-2011/live/
-----
Next week I'll be starting the book, The History of Fettercairn. I got in an email from the Wood Clan saying they have a meeting shortly and would love to read this book as it covers the area where the Wood clan have their home. And so I've brought that forward so they can have a read prior to their meeting.
This also prompted me to ask the question... is there a book out there that is based in your own clan lands? If there is and you know the title and it's also out of copyright then do let me know and I'll see if I can get a copy to add to the site.
-----
Scotland’s last traditional tartan weaving mill, whose tartans have been worn by the Queen, Nelson Mandela, Ivana Trump, Neil Armstrong and Arnold Palmer, has been rescued from closure with a last minute takeover by the owners of Edinburgh-based tartan goods website, Scotweb. As the only surviving tartan weaver of its kind, closure would have meant the loss forever of a major Scottish tradition and centuries of specialist skills.
D.C. Dalgliesh Ltd, of Selkirk, Scotland, is the only weaver in the world still producing all its tartans to authentic traditional standards. But the mill has struggled to compete in the face of cheap imports, with 17 highly-skilled artisan jobs at risk.
Scotweb directors Dr Nick Fiddes and Dr Adele Telford were long-term customers of the mill, as the world’s largest online retailers of tartan goods and products (see www.scotweb.co.uk ). A takeover seemed the perfect fit.
Dr Fiddes said, “We are delighted that we’ve been able to step up and save this vital and wonderful part of Scotland’s heritage. This tartan weaver wasn’t just another small business going to the wall. If this mill had gone, 90% of all tartans would never have been produced again. It would have been the end of centuries of tradition.”
"No other weaver produces tartans of the same quality. And no other mill can weave you just enough for a single garment in your own family tartan, which is what most tartan enthusiasts want. A really important part of Scotland’s identity would have been lost forever.”
With the unrivalled quality of the mill’s products, Drs Fiddes & Telford are committed putting D.C. Dalgliesh back on the map as a beacon of excellence for Scottish tartan weaving, and intend to take the business from strength-to-strength.
A new D.C. Dalgliesh website will be launched today along with a video, displaying the history, skills and production of D.C. Dalgliesh tartans. See http://www.dcdalgliesh.co.uk
ABOUT THE STORIES
-----------------
Some of the stories in here are just parts of a larger story so do check out the site for the full versions. You can always find the link in our "What's New" section in our site menu and at http://www.electricscotland.com/rss/whatsnew.php
Electric Scotland Community
---------------------------
One thing I do enjoy about our Community is the way old faces are appearing that used to be with us in our old community many years ago.
we got in a message telling us that Australia is now the home of the longest lived soldier from the First World War. An amazing chap by all accounts.
Our community can be viewed at http://www.electricscotland.org but of course if you are reading this you're already in it :-)
THE FLAG IN THE WIND
--------------------
This weeks issue is now available compiled by Jim Lynch in which he reveals the last opinion polls. It's looking good for the SNP but we won't know the results until tomorrow. I had thought they might have held the Flag so as to get the results but guess they wanted to stick to their deadline.
You can get to the Flag at http://www.scotsindependent.org
Historical Tales of the Wars of Scotland
----------------------------------------
And of the Border Raids, Forays and Conflicts by John Parker Lawson (1839). This is a new publication we're starting on which is in 3 volumes. We intend to post up 2 or 3 stories each week until complete.
This week we've added...
Battle of Kilsyth - 1645
You can read this account at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/wars/
Glencreggan: or A Highland Home in Cantire
------------------------------------------
By Cuthbert Bede (1861)
This week we're on the Appendix with...
The Cantire Life-Boat
You can read this at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/glencreggan/
Kay's Edinburgh Portraits
-------------------------
A Series of Anecdotal Biographies chiefly of Scotchmen, Mostly by James Paterson and Edited by James Maidment (1885)
This week we have added...
Lord Polkemmet
James Gillespie, Esq., of Spylaw, and his Brother John Gillespie
Andrew Donaldson, Teacher of Greek and Hebrew
Thomas Sommers, His Majesty's Glazier for Scotland
Mr. and Mrs. Lee Lewes, at the Edinburgh Theatre
Colonel Monro, a well-known Blue-Gown Beggar
An interesting account of Thomas Sommers, His Majesty's Glazier for Scotland, which starts...
Thomas Sommers—the friend and biographer of Fergusson the poet— was originally from Lanarkshire. He came to Edinburgh early in life; so early iudeed, that he may be said to have been brought up in the city almost from infancy. He first became acquainted with Fergusson in 1756, who, then in the sixth year of his age, was a pupil of Mr. Philp, an English teacher in Niddry's Wynd, and who was on terms of intimacy with Mr. Sommers.
After finishing his apprenticeship as a glazier, Sommers proceeded to London. He was then about twenty years of age; and shortly after his arrival, as he used frequently to relate, he had the satisfaction of witnessing the coronation of George III. and his consort. In the capital he found good employment for several years; and he was enabled, on his return to Edinburgh, to commence business for himself, by opening a paint and glazier's shop in the Parliament Square.
Possessed of an education much superior to most of his contemporaries in the same station of life, Mr. Sommers soon acquired influence in the mangement of Mary's Chapel. "The United Incorporation of Mary's Chapel consists of the following crafts :—Wrights, masons, bowyers, glaziers, plumbers, upholsterers, painters, slaters, sievewrights, and coopers. This community has, in Niddry's Wynd, a modern hall, for holding their meetings. It is called Mary's Chapel, having been originally a chapel dedicated to the Blessed Virgin."— Arnot's Hist, of Edin. Two deacons are annually chosen; one to represent the wrights, and another the masons. Some years ago, the election of Deacon for Mary's Chapel was a matter of very great importance. He was elected Deacon of the Masons in 1770-1, and again in 1776. In the latter year, remarkable in the annals of the Council for a keen contest for supremacy, he espoused the side of Sir Laurence Dundas, through whose interest he procured the appointment of "His Majesty's Glazier for Scotland."
A taste for literature had been early imbibed by Mr. Sommers; and, although thirteen years the senior of Fergusson, a reciprocity of sentiment produced a warm and steady intimacy betwixt them. With Woods, the Scottish Roscius, as he was termed, and several other friends of the Poet, he was well acquainted, and long after the latter had closed his short and ill-fated career, they continued to cherish his memory with the utmost affection. Possessing considerable facility in composition, with pretty extensive general knowledge, his acquirements were well calculated to elevate him above the level of the great mass of his fellow-citizens. In the Corporation, of which he was a member, and while one of the Town Council, Mr. Sommers stood pre-eminent—frequently astonishing his brethren, accustomed as they were to conversational debates, by the force of his arguments and the flights of his fancy. Interested in all public matters, he was ever zealous for the public good; and the humanity and kindness of his disposition invariably led him, as a member of Mary's Chapel, to advocate warmly the cause of the necessitous, who had claims on the Incorporation. As may be inferred, "His Majesty's Glazier" possessed a truly social temper. He was a member of the well known Cape Club, and for several years Secretary to the Grand Lodge of Freemasons, by whom he was regarded as an oracle.
You can read the rest of this entry at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/kays/vol248.htm
The other entries can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/kays/index.htm
Robert Burns Lives!
-------------------
By Frank Shaw
Robert Burns & Pastoral By Nigel Leask
I met Nigel Leask in January of this year while attending the one-day conference Burns and Beyond hosted by the Centre for Robert Burns Studies at the University of Glasgow. I had heard great things about Nigel’s prize-winning book, and I was pleased to note in the symposium materials that he was to be the keynote speaker. Following the conference, the speakers were invited to dinner at a rather trendy tapas bar in Glasgow called the Café Andaluz. The tables were small and I was lucky enough to sit across from Nigel, so our conversation was for me a night to remember. I found Nigel to be engaging and informative, and he exuded a degree of warmth that left me feeling as if I had known him since school days, and at my age that would have been a long time ago! Below is a review of his book that I have wanted to share with our readers since the conference, but the outpouring of articles from many of the conference speakers has postponed it until now. Here is a tip to those who know their Burns…buy this book to increase your knowledge and you may become what others call you - a Burns scholar.
You can read this article at http://www.electricscotland.com/fami...s_lives119.htm
All of the Robert Burns articles can be found at http://www.electricscotland.com/fami...rank/burns.htm
Places of Interest about Girvan
-------------------------------
By Rev. R. Lawson (1892).
We put up this week...
Straiton
Barr
In Carrick
Two Letters of Peden hitherto unpublished
Some Carrick Epitaphs
Carrick Heraldic Mottoes
Smuggling in Carrick
Some Carrick Originals
Some Carrick Place-Names
The account of Some Carrick Originals starts...
JAMIE BAIRD was one of our Girvan Naturals in my boyhood's days, and was wont to accost the postman with—"Hae ye ony letters for my faither the day?"—"No, Jamie."—"Will ye hae ony the morn—a question which rather puzzled the man of letters. Jamie Scott was another of the weakminded brotherhood. On one occasion, he was summoned before a Commissioner on lunacy, who was accompanied by Mr Matthew Scott, our Inspector of Poor, and a staunch teetotaller. The Commissioner offered Jamie a dram, having heard he was fond of it, but Jamie, suspecting a trap, sidled out, saying—"Na, I'm no for ony; but giet to Matthew there, he's the boy can nip it.
Jock Aird, who died Dec, 1891, was the last of our Public Naturals. He was born, as he died, in the parish of Kirkmichael, but his wandering habits brought him under the notice of all the mischievous boys in Carrick. His portrait is given at the head of this paper. He used to be sorely tormented by the evil disposed, but was accounted a privileged person by all else. His appearance was unique, and his behaviour was in keeping with his appearance. Small in stature, shabby in dress, but always wearing an air of refined conceit which proved an irresistible temptation to the boys. Jock's appearance in the town was the invariable signal for a crowd. "Chin," "Craw," "Nosey," were the opprobrious names with which he was hailed, and which soon raised Jock to the boiling point. He would stop, threaten, flourish his stick, run after one or two of the more conspicuous, appeal to the passers-by to be relieved of his tormentors—but all to no purpose. He got no peace till he left the town again.
You can read the rest of this chapter at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist.../chapter36.htm
You can read the other chapters at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...rvan/index.htm
Poems of George Alexander Rodger
--------------------------------
Added another poem, Harvest Memories, which you can read at http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/rodger08.htm
The other poems can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/poetry/rodger.htm
William and Louisa Anderson
---------------------------
A record of their Life and Work in Jamaica and Old Calabar by William Markwick (1897)
we now have up...
Part I
Early Days in Scotland, 1812-1839
Chapter 1
1812-1817 - Parentage—Buckholmside—Dalkeith—Ford— Newbattle Tollhouse
Chapter 2
1817-1819 - Clayhouses—Preaching—Ideas of Ministers and their Office— "Diet of visitation" — "Seeking the Lord"
Chapter 3
1819-1823 - Reading—Sports—Schoolboy Days—Death of Aunt—Death of Father
Chapter 4
1823-1828 - Sorrows—"Summer Sacrament"—Sabbath School—Reading—Ideal World—Journey to Haddington—Departure from Ford—Nettlingflat— Engagement to go to Fala Mains
Chapter 5
1828-1831 - Fala South Mains—Avocations—Reading—Preaching
Chapter 6
1831-1834 - Ford — Chestcrhill - Blackdub —Reading— Preparation for Communion—Admission to the Church—Sabbath School Teaching
Chapter 7
1834-1838 - Residence in Dalkeith—Death of Friends—First Speech—Engagement to go to Jamaica under the Scottish Missionary Society
Chapter 8
1839 - Leaving Dalkeith—Attendance at Sessional School, Edinburgh - Last Communion at Ford—Glasgow—Galashiels—Farewell Meetings
Part II
Jamaica Period, 1839-1848
Chapter 1
Voyage to Jamaica—Arrival—First Impressions and Beginning of Work
Chapter 2
Catechist and Teacher at Carron Hall and Evangelist at Rose Hill — Engagement to Miss Louisa Peterswald
In the first chapter of his Jamaica Period we learn...
On Monday, Nov. 11th, 1839, Mr. Anderson and his companions, Messrs. Scott and Buchanan, set sail in the Christian. Contrary winds prevailed, and on the 14th the vessel was driven back into Lamlash Bay. On the 15th, Mr. Anderson was very happy to be on terra firma again, and, accompanied by Mr. Scott, took a pretty long walk on Arran. Peats and hills reminded him of old days at Fala—Soutra Hill and the Red Brae. On the 30th, Mr. Anderson wrote in his Journal:—
We left Lamlash on the morning of the 18th. Since then I have been sea-sick both night and day. A year to-day I offered myself to the Scottish Missionary Society.
He employed himself chiefly in reading, and remarked that for many years he had not had so much time for reading. While lying sick, he read the greater part of Williams' Narrative of South Sea Islands Mission. A few extracts from his Journal may be given.
On December 8th he preached for the first time on board:—
Delightful day. Awning up for the first time. Preached on deck from Acts xvi. 30, 31. Seamen very attentive. Distributed tracts after sermon. They were eagerly received. . . .
The want of my luggage putting me to inconvenience, Captain M'Nielage kindly gave me a light coat, which is more suitable for our present temperature than my own. I may jot down here that Captain M'.N. has been very kind to me during my protracted seasickness. Frequently he slipped into our berth with a bottle of ginger beer, which generally relieved me for a short time. . . .
Monday, 9.— Began to read an old acquaintance—Dick's Christian Philosopher, and a new acquaintance—Harris's Great Teacher. Feel as much delighted with Dick as when I read him nine years ago by "the farmer's ingle." On reading Harris, feel ashamed and confounded for having heretofore paid so little attention to the gracious words which proceeded out of the Saviour's mouth, though I have read them so frequently ; and have resolved to make them the subject of special study for the future. . . .
Saturday, 21.— Finished the reading of Harris's Great Teacher. As a whole, it scarcely comes up to my expectations. . . .
Friday, 27. Captain M'N. captured a dolphin yesterday. The change of colours in a dying dolphin is really wonderful.
Saturday, 28.— I am beginning to enjoy sea-life. Have much reason for gratitude.
Sabbath, Dec. 29.—Mr. Buchanan was to have preached to-day, but was not prepared. I would have taken his place, but was feeling squeamish. The captain desired service, and at his request I conducted worship in the cabin in the evening. . . .
Monday, 30.— By way of recreation, engaged to-day with several fellow-passengers in a rather novel employment, namely, the manufacture of ginger beer! The captain kindly supplied us with material, and we managed to brew something drinkable. He also kindly added a jacket to my scanty wardrobe.
Mr. Anderson spent the closing hours of the year in fond recollection of old friends at Ford, and on New Year's Day 1840 re-dedicated himself to the service of God. He wrote in his Journal:—
Tuesday, 31.—Between 6 and 7 P.M. in Scotland. I can imagine that I see the stars shining brightly over the lovely vale where flows the little river Tyne. A hard frost has probably taken the ground. My aunt—poor body—has by this time got her house "redd up for the New Year," and is enjoying her pipe by her wee fireside, probably wondering where her laddie is and what he is doing. Nearly four thousand miles of ocean roll between her and me. Old George Miller may have taken his seat at the other side of the fire, and the two may be enjoying a laugh at the guizards. But there is a sort of hurry to-night—Lizzie and young George have still to go to Pathhead for some commodities yet awanting. Miss Herdman looks in, but has no time to sit down. Bell (Mrs. Elliot's servant) has been at Pathhead, and can only look in and speak a kindly word in passing.
Peace be with all the loved ones in my native land!
You can read the rest of this chapter at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...derson2-01.htm
You can read the other chapters at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...rson/index.htm
Holiday Cottages
----------------
Got a wee article in "Redefine your holiday experience" which you can read at http://www.electricscotland.com/travel/holiday39.htm
Wyntoun's Original Chronicle
----------------------------
A review of this Chronicle and a copy of it. This is one of the oldest histories of Scotland.
I spotted a review of Wyntoun's Original Chronicle in the Scottish Review and as he was one of Scotland's first real historians thought it would be interesting to share this with you...
The review can be read in pdf format at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist...un/wyntoun.pdf
And I have sourced a copy of a 3 volume version of his history in pdf format should you wish to read it at http://www.electricscotland.com/history/wyntoun/
The Annandale Family Book
-------------------------
Here is a book about the Johnstone clan.
I came across an article in the Scottish Review giving a review of this 2 volume book. I decided to extract the review from the pdf version and supply it for you to read.
I then found a pdf version of this book and so also provide both volumes for you to read in pdf format...
The Annandale Family Book of the Johnstones, Earls and Marquises of Annandale. By Sir William Fraser, K.C.B., LL.D. 2 vols., 4to. Edinburgh: 1894.
You can read this at http://www.electricscotland.com/webc.../johnson4.html
Asiatics in America
-------------------
I discovered this article in an old copy of the Scottish Review c1890 which tries to trace the origin of the native indian peoples of North and South America. This is a pdf file which can be read at http://www.electricscotland.com/hist..._americans.pdf
Gladstaines
-----------
I was delighted to find a small account of this family as for years we've had a page about them only saying we had yet to find any information about them.
And so we now at last have something which you can read at
http://www.electricscotland.com/webc...adstaines2.htm
Rant on the Travel Trade
------------------------
I confess to being a bit annoyed with the lack of vision and transparency in the Travel trade around the world so made a video to express by dissatisfaction.
It's just that over the years I've contacted the travel organisations all over the world to seek help in providing pictures and information on areas I've featured on the site and have never received any assistance at all from them. I thus got a bit fed up with it all and to get rid of some of my frustrations I made this video which you can see at http://www.electricscotland.org/show...Trade#post4776
The Highland Clans of Scotland: Their History and Traditions
------------------------------------------------------------
by George Eyre-Todd
This is a two volume publication which we've added to our site. You can download this publication at the foot of the page at http://www.electricscotland.com/webc...land_clans.htm
It comes with some one hundred and twenty two illustrations and is in pdf format.
And finally...
Forrest Gump
The day finally arrived. Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. He is at the Pearly Gates, met by St. Peter himself. However, the gates are closed, and Forrest approaches the gatekeeper.
St. Peter said, "Well, Forrest, it is certainly good to see you. We have heard a lot about you. I must tell you, though, that the place is filling up fast, and we have been administering an entrance examination for everyone. The test is short, but you have to pass it before you can get into Heaven."
Forrest responds, "It sure is good to be here, St. Peter, sir. But nobody ever told me about any entrance exam. I sure hope that the test ain't too hard. Life was a big enough test as it was."
St. Peter continued, "Yes, I know, Forrest, but the test is only three questions.
First:
What two days of the week begin with the letter T?
Second:
How many seconds are there in a year?
Third:
What is God's first name?"
Forrest leaves to think the questions over. He returns the next day and sees St. Peter, who waves him up, and says, "Now that you have had a chance to think the questions over, tell me your answers"
Forrest replied, "Well, the first one -- which two days in the week begins with the letter "T"? Shucks, that one is easy. That would be Today and Tomorrow."
The Saint's eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, "Forrest, that is not what I was thinking, but you do have a point, and I guess I did not specify, so I will give you credit for that answer. How about the next one?" asked St. Peter.
"How many seconds in a year?
Now that one is harder," replied Forrest, but I thunk and thunk about that, and I guess the only answer can be twelve."
Astounded, St. Peter said, "Twelve? Twelve? Forrest, how in Heaven's name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?"
Forrest replied, "Shucks, there's got to be twelve: January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd... "
"Hold it," interrupts St. Peter. "I see where you are going with this, and I see your point, though that was not quite what I had in mind....but I will have to give you credit for that one, too. Let us go on with the third and final question.
Can you tell me God's first name"?
"Sure," Forrest replied, "it's Andy."
"Andy?" exclaimed an exasperated and frustrated St Peter.
"Ok, I can understand how you came up with your answers to my first two questions, but just how in the world did you come up with the name Andy as the first name of God?"
"Shucks, that was the easiest one of all," Forrest replied. "I learnt it from the song, "ANDY WALKS WITH ME, ANDY TALKS WITH ME, ANDY TELLS ME I AM HIS OWN."
And that's it for now and hope you all have a good weekend.
Alastair
http://www.electricscotland.com
Comment