Master Mariner JOHN MACKAY, Merchant Navy, late of 31 Valtos, died today in 1919 at the age of 47
Gunner TORQUIL MUNRO, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 27 Aignish, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Monday, 31 January 2011
Sunday, 30 January 2011
Remembering today - 30 January
Gunner DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Knock, Point, died today in 1918 at the age of 30
Saturday, 29 January 2011
Remembering today - 29 January
Leading Boatman MALCOLM MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Stenish, died today in 1916 at the age of 48
Friday, 28 January 2011
Remembering today - 28 January
Private DONALD MONTGOMERY, Cameron Highlanders, late of 29 Lower Garrabost, died today in 1917 at the age of 19
Private WILLIAM MURRAY, Gordon Highlanders, late of 15 Swordale, died today in 1920 at the age of 19
Private WILLIAM MURRAY, Gordon Highlanders, late of 15 Swordale, died today in 1920 at the age of 19
Thursday, 27 January 2011
Remembering today - 27 January
Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Stornoway, died today in 1918
Leading Boatman JOHN MACAULAY, Coastguard, late of 56 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Leading Boatman JOHN MACAULAY, Coastguard, late of 56 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Wednesday, 26 January 2011
Berneray to Vatersay
A new site is currently being compiled on the Fallen from World War I and World War II from the islands of Berneray, Boreray, North Uist, Grimsay, Benbecula, South Uist, Eriskay, Barra and Vatersay. All information welcome.
Remembering today - 26 January
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Swordale, died today in 1917 at the age of 38
Carpenter THOMAS MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of Stornoway, died today in 1917
Quartermaster MURDO SMITH, Merchant Navy, late of 25 Leurbost, died today in 1917 at the age of 30
Carpenter THOMAS MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of Stornoway, died today in 1917
Quartermaster MURDO SMITH, Merchant Navy, late of 25 Leurbost, died today in 1917 at the age of 30
Tuesday, 25 January 2011
Remembering today - 25 January
Private RODERICK KENNEDY, Cameron Highlanders, late of 14 Calbost, died today in 1915 at the age of 18
Private ALEX MACIVER, Scots Guards, late of 36 Coll, died today in 1915 at the age of 23
Seaman AULAY MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Breasclete, died today in 1917 at the age of 29
Chief Petty Officer ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Navy, late of 10 Benside, died today in 1917
ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Tobson, Great Bernera, died today in 1917 at the age of 28
Seaman NORMAN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Breaclet, Great Bernera, died today in 1917 at the age of 33
Seaman DUNCAN NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Gravir, died today in 1917 at the age of 22
Private ALEX MACIVER, Scots Guards, late of 36 Coll, died today in 1915 at the age of 23
Seaman AULAY MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Breasclete, died today in 1917 at the age of 29
Chief Petty Officer ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Navy, late of 10 Benside, died today in 1917
ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Tobson, Great Bernera, died today in 1917 at the age of 28
Seaman NORMAN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Breaclet, Great Bernera, died today in 1917 at the age of 33
Seaman DUNCAN NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Gravir, died today in 1917 at the age of 22
Monday, 24 January 2011
Remembering today - 24 January
Private MALCOLM MACLEOD, Cameron Highlanders, late of 35 Bayhead Street, Stornoway, died today in 1917 at the age of 19
Thursday, 20 January 2011
The schoolmaster's son
Hector Bruce was head master of Cromore School in the Pairc area of Lewis from 1902 until 1918. He had seven children with his wife Margaret (nee Anderson), whom he had married at Golspie on 12 October 1888.
One of their sons, William, was born at Dalarossie Schoolhouse, near Inverness, on 14 June 1888.
After growing up, William emigrated to Canada and worked as a banker at the Head Office of the Union Bank of Canada in Winnipeg from 1908 until 1915. His military service record quotes his Canadian address as Plenty, Saskatchewan; which is nearly 600 miles west of Winnipeg.
William had enrolled in the Saskatchewan Regimental Depot, but was seconded to the Royal Air Force on 12 October 1917, and promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on 17 February 1918.
On 19 May of the same year, he left the aerodrome at Andover, England, for France. After proceeding for 50 miles, he was forced to land due to engine problems. When it had been repaired, he again started off on 25 May, and since then no further information concerning him was received.
William is marked as buried at the Commercy French National Cemetery, as the sole Commonwealth casualty. I presume he was found later, and interred at Commercy.
I am now able to complete William Bruce's record on Faces from the Lewis War Memorial as follows:
Lieutenant WILLIAM BRUCE
Last address in Lewis: 28 Cromore,
Son of Mr and Mrs Hector Bruce, of 31 Bridge Street, Inverness
Service unit: 104 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Date of death: 25 May 1918 at the age of 28
Went missing whilst flying from England to France
Interred: Commercy French National Cemetery, North West part
Local memorial: Park, Kershader
One of their sons, William, was born at Dalarossie Schoolhouse, near Inverness, on 14 June 1888.
After growing up, William emigrated to Canada and worked as a banker at the Head Office of the Union Bank of Canada in Winnipeg from 1908 until 1915. His military service record quotes his Canadian address as Plenty, Saskatchewan; which is nearly 600 miles west of Winnipeg.
William had enrolled in the Saskatchewan Regimental Depot, but was seconded to the Royal Air Force on 12 October 1917, and promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on 17 February 1918.
On 19 May of the same year, he left the aerodrome at Andover, England, for France. After proceeding for 50 miles, he was forced to land due to engine problems. When it had been repaired, he again started off on 25 May, and since then no further information concerning him was received.
William is marked as buried at the Commercy French National Cemetery, as the sole Commonwealth casualty. I presume he was found later, and interred at Commercy.
I am now able to complete William Bruce's record on Faces from the Lewis War Memorial as follows:
Lieutenant WILLIAM BRUCE
Last address in Lewis: 28 Cromore,
Son of Mr and Mrs Hector Bruce, of 31 Bridge Street, Inverness
Service unit: 104 Squadron, Royal Air Force
Date of death: 25 May 1918 at the age of 28
Went missing whilst flying from England to France
Interred: Commercy French National Cemetery, North West part
Local memorial: Park, Kershader
Remembering today - 20 January
Seaman COLIN CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 47 North Tolsta, died today in 1915 at the age of 50
Private DONALD MACAULAY, Gordon Highlanders, late of 12 Murray's Court, Stornoway, died today in 1915 at the age of 20
Seaman EVANDER MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of New Street Back, died today in 1917 at the age of 40
Seaman EVANDER MACDONALD, Merchant Navy, late of 15 Coll, died today in 1917 at the age of 40
Leading Seaman ALEX MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 19 South Dell, died today in 1917 at the age of 29
Seaman ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 19 South Dell, died today in 1918 at the age of 35
Seaman MURDO MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Private DONALD MACAULAY, Gordon Highlanders, late of 12 Murray's Court, Stornoway, died today in 1915 at the age of 20
Seaman EVANDER MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of New Street Back, died today in 1917 at the age of 40
Seaman EVANDER MACDONALD, Merchant Navy, late of 15 Coll, died today in 1917 at the age of 40
Leading Seaman ALEX MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 19 South Dell, died today in 1917 at the age of 29
Seaman ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 19 South Dell, died today in 1918 at the age of 35
Seaman MURDO MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Wednesday, 19 January 2011
Remembering today - 19 January
Private DONALD MACLEOD SNEDDON, Royal Scots Fusiliers, late of 39A Balallan, died today in 1916 at the age of 15
Sapper FINLAY SMITH, Canadians, late of 19 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Sapper FINLAY SMITH, Canadians, late of 19 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Tuesday, 18 January 2011
Remembering today - 18 January
Private ALLAN GRAHAM, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 6 Lower Garrabost, died today in 1916 at the age of 18
Seaman MURDO MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Aignish, died today in 1917 at the age of 26
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Crossbost, died today in 1918 at the age of 27
Seaman MURDO MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Aignish, died today in 1917 at the age of 26
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Crossbost, died today in 1918 at the age of 27
Monday, 17 January 2011
Remembering today - 17 January
Sergeant WILLIAM HECTOR MATHESON, Canadians, late of Seaforth House Scotland Street, Stornoway, died today in 1917 at the age of 36
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Merchant Navy, late of 20 Crowlista, died today in 1918 at the age of 28
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Merchant Navy, late of 20 Crowlista, died today in 1918 at the age of 28
Saturday, 15 January 2011
Remembering today - 15 January
Able Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 23 Lower Garrabost, died today in 1917 at the age of 22
Friday, 14 January 2011
Remembering today - 14 January
Seaman MURDO GUNN, Royal Navy, late of North Tolsta, died today in 1920 at the age of 44
Thursday, 13 January 2011
Remembering today - 13 January
Seaman DONALD (jnr) FINLAYSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Brue, died today in 1915
Seaman ALEX MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 26 Leurbost, died today in 1915 at the age of 24
Seaman DUNCAN MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Brue, died today in 1915 at the age of 40
Private KENNETH MACINNES, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 3 Coulregrein, died today in 1916
Private JOHN MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 14 Ranish, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN STEWART, Royal Navy, late of 50 Vatisker, died today in 1917 at the age of 27
Seaman ALEX MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 26 Leurbost, died today in 1915 at the age of 24
Seaman DUNCAN MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Brue, died today in 1915 at the age of 40
Private KENNETH MACINNES, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 3 Coulregrein, died today in 1916
Private JOHN MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 14 Ranish, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN STEWART, Royal Navy, late of 50 Vatisker, died today in 1917 at the age of 27
Wednesday, 12 January 2011
Now remembered
Private NORMAN MORRISON
Last address in Lewis: 10 South Dell
Son of Murdo and Flora Morrison of 10 South Dell
Service unit: 3rd Gordon Highlanders
Service number: 3/5645
Discharged at Aberdeen on 29 May 1916 due to gunshot wounds and TB
Date of death: 16 March 1917 at the age of 23
Died of wounds at home
Interred: Old Ness Cemetery, Swainbost, lair 95
Local memorial: North Lewis, Cross
I am pleased to announce that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has formally recognised Norman's status as War Dead from the Commonwealth, and a stone is to be (has been?) erected at the Swainbost Cemetery (referred to as Old Ness).
It is a matter of pride for me personally that Norman's sacrifice is finally recognised and he will be remembered for perpetuity by CWGC, and in that old, windswept graveyard by the sea. I am equally grateful to the volunteers from the laudible In From the Cold Project for facilitating this process of recognition.
Last address in Lewis: 10 South Dell
Son of Murdo and Flora Morrison of 10 South Dell
Service unit: 3rd Gordon Highlanders
Service number: 3/5645
Discharged at Aberdeen on 29 May 1916 due to gunshot wounds and TB
Date of death: 16 March 1917 at the age of 23
Died of wounds at home
Interred: Old Ness Cemetery, Swainbost, lair 95
Local memorial: North Lewis, Cross
I am pleased to announce that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has formally recognised Norman's status as War Dead from the Commonwealth, and a stone is to be (has been?) erected at the Swainbost Cemetery (referred to as Old Ness).
It is a matter of pride for me personally that Norman's sacrifice is finally recognised and he will be remembered for perpetuity by CWGC, and in that old, windswept graveyard by the sea. I am equally grateful to the volunteers from the laudible In From the Cold Project for facilitating this process of recognition.
Remembering today - 12 January
Lance-Corporal MURDO SMITH, Cameron Highlanders, late of 24 Upper Shader, died today in 1915 at the age of 19
Seaman KENNETH JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 27 Upper Bayble, died today in 1918 at the age of 24
Seaman KENNETH JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 27 Upper Bayble, died today in 1918 at the age of 24
Tuesday, 11 January 2011
Remembering today - 10 January
Gunner MALCOLM MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 5 Knock, Point, died today in 1918 at the age of 20
Chief Officer NORMAN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 10 Bells Road, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Chief Officer NORMAN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 10 Bells Road, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Remembering today - 9 January
Corporal LOUIS MACLEAY, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 14 Ballantrushal, died today in 1918 at the age of 19
Remembering today - 8 January
Private DONALD MACKAY, Gordon Highlanders, late of 3 Back, died today in 1915
Private MURDO MACKAY, Cameron Highlanders, late of 48 Carloway, died today in 1915 at the age of 34
Leading Seaman ALLAN MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Brue, died today in 1917 at the age of 37
Private MURDO MACKAY, Cameron Highlanders, late of 48 Carloway, died today in 1915 at the age of 34
Leading Seaman ALLAN MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Brue, died today in 1917 at the age of 37
Remembering today - 7 January
Private PETER GRAHAM, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 9 Maciver's Buildings, Stornoway, died today in 1916 at the age of 23
Private ALEX MACDONALD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 21 Lionel, died today in 1916 at the age of 21
Private DONALD MACDONALD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 18 Habost, Ness, died today in 1916 at the age of 21
Private NORMAN MACIVER, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 43 Coll, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Private ANGUS MACKAY, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 20 Cross, died today in 1916 at the age of 19
Private ANGUS MACKENZIE, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 36 Back, died today in 1916 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD MACLEAN, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 21 Callanish, died today in 1916 at the age of 22
Private DONALD MACLEAN, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 7 Coll, died today in 1916 at the age of 22
Private DONALD MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 51 Upper Bayble, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Private JOHN MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 16 Lionel, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Lieutenant JOHN MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 19 Swordale, died today in 1916 at the age of 42
Private MURDO MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 54 Coll, died today in 1916 at the age of 25
Private DONALD NICOLSON, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 21 Ranish, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Private DONALD MACLEOD, Canadians, late of 2 Portvoller, died today in 1917 at the age of 18
Seaman RODERICK GILLIES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20B South Dell, died today in 1920 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 21 Swainbost, died today in 1920 at the age of 19
Private ALEX MACDONALD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 21 Lionel, died today in 1916 at the age of 21
Private DONALD MACDONALD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 18 Habost, Ness, died today in 1916 at the age of 21
Private NORMAN MACIVER, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 43 Coll, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Private ANGUS MACKAY, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 20 Cross, died today in 1916 at the age of 19
Private ANGUS MACKENZIE, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 36 Back, died today in 1916 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD MACLEAN, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 21 Callanish, died today in 1916 at the age of 22
Private DONALD MACLEAN, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 7 Coll, died today in 1916 at the age of 22
Private DONALD MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 51 Upper Bayble, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Private JOHN MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 16 Lionel, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Lieutenant JOHN MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 19 Swordale, died today in 1916 at the age of 42
Private MURDO MACLEOD, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 54 Coll, died today in 1916 at the age of 25
Private DONALD NICOLSON, Seaforth Highlanders, late of 21 Ranish, died today in 1916 at the age of 20
Private DONALD MACLEOD, Canadians, late of 2 Portvoller, died today in 1917 at the age of 18
Seaman RODERICK GILLIES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20B South Dell, died today in 1920 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 21 Swainbost, died today in 1920 at the age of 19
Remembering today - 5 January
Chief Petty Officer KENNETH CAMPBELL, Royal Navy, late of 21 Lower Bayble, died today in 1917 at the age of 40
Remembering today - 3 January
Seaman DONALD MACRAE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 21 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Remembering today - 1 January
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 28B Breasclete, died today in 1915 at the age of 42
Seaman JOHN MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 54 North Shawbost, died today in 1916 at the age of 28
Lost in the Iolaire
Seaman ALEX BEATON, Merchant Navy, late of 40 Coll, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Seaman PETER BUCHANAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 23 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman ALEX CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 26 Swordale, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman ALEX CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Vatisker, died today in 1919
Seaman ALEX JOHN CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 41 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman ANGUS CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 31 Lionel, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Leading Seaman DONALD CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 44 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Leading Seaman DONALD CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Vatisker, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Leading Seaman KENNETH CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 54 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Seaman MURDO CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Eorodale, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman ANGUS CRICHTON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Knock, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Seaman DONALD CRICHTON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Knock, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 23
Leading Decksteward CHARLES M DEWSBURY, Merchant Navy, late of 1 Rodney Road, Great Yarmouth, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman MURDO FERGUSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Lemreway, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman ANGUS GILLIES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 35 South Dell, died today in 1919 at the age of 30
Seaman DONALD WILLIAM GILLIES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 30 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Seaman DONALD MACARTHUR, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Kirivick, died today in 1919 at the age of 35
Seaman DONALD MACASKILL, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 9 Gravir, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman DONALD MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 14 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Lighthill Back, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman JOHN MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Kirivick, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Lower Sandwick, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Signaller JOHN ALEX MACASKILL, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 75 Keith Street, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Deckhand DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Hacklet, Great Bernera, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 41 Ranish, died today in 1919
Seaman DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 39
Seaman DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Deckhand DONALD M MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman JOHN MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11B Grimshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman MURDO MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 34
Seaman ALEX MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 29 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Chief Warrant Officer ALEX MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Newvalley, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Seaman ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 6 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Seaman ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 42 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Port of Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Signalboy DAVID MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 53 Virginia Street, Aberdeen, died today in 1919 at the age of 17
Leading Torpedoman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 35 Arnol, died today in 1919
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Back, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Leading Deckhand DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 44 Breasclete, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Leading Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Tobson, Great Bernera, died today in 1919 at the age of 36
Leading Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 23B Ranish, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Deckhand EWEN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Petty Officer JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Holm, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 25A Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Skigersta, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman JOHN (Jun) MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Seaman JOHN (Sen) MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 30
Seaman MALCOLM MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 57 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Seaman MURDO MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Borve, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Deckhand MURDO MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Fivig, Bragar,, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman MURDO MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Gunner RODERICK JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman WILLIAM MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 44 Lower Bayble, Park, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DAVID MACINNES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2B Lemreway, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman MALCOLM MACINNES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Lemreway, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Second Hand ALEX MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 19 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman ANGUS MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 45 Arnol, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman DONALD MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 38 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Petty Officer JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 46 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Mate JOHN MACIVER, Merchant Navy, late of 19 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 33 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Leading Seaman JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 69 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Hill Street North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Second Hand MALCOLM MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 28 Aignish, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman MALCOLM MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 40 Breasclete, died today in 1919 at the age of 35
Seaman MURDO MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 49
Second Hand ANGUS MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Second Hand ANGUS MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Hillside, Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Deckhand DONALD MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 22
Seaman MALCOLM MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman MALCOLM MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 14B Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Deckhand MURDO MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 North Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman MURDO MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Swordale, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Signaller WILLIAM MACKAY, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 7 Fivepenny, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Seaman ALEX MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Aird, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman ALEX MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Aird, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Deckhand ALEX MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Gunner ALEX ANGUS MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Seaman DONALD MACKENZIE, Merchant Navy, late of 22 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Breaclet, Great Bernera, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 30
Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Marvig, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman KENNETH MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Newlands, Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman MURDO MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Garenin, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman MURDO MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Seaman NORMAN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Church Street Garrabost, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Second Hand RODERICK MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Swordale, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman ANGUS MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Caversta, died today in 1919
Deckhand MURDO MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Brenish, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman DONALD MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 35 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman JOHN MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman MURDO MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 6 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman MURDO MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 30 Coll, died today in 1919
Seaman MURDO MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 39 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Seaman ANGUS MACLEAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 33 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman ALEX MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1A Garyvard, died today in 1919 at the age of 25
Seaman ALEX MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Portnaguran, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman ALEX ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 21 Ranish, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman ALEX ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 28 Tolsta Chaolais, died today in 1919
Deckhand ALEX JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Broker, died today in 1919
Seaman ALLAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 25
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Knock, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 23
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 46 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Newvalley, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 51
Deckhand DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Crossbost, died today in 1919
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5A Fivepenny, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Leading Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 58 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 38 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 42 Keith Street, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 12 Murray's Court, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 43 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Able Seaman JOHN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 13 Crossbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Eorodale, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 30 Lower Garrabost, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 6 Kirivick, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 25 Laxay, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Seaman JOHN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 31 Ranish, died today in 1919 at the age of 39
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 Uigen, died today in 1919 at the age of 22
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 29 North Shawbost, died today in 1919
Deckhand MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Aignish, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Gunner MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Balallan, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Crossbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Grimshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Leading Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 58 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Deckhand MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 32 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 28 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman MURDO MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Aird, died today in 1919 at the age of 43
Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Arnol, died today in 1919 at the age of 36
Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Portnaguran, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 23 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Deckhand WILLIAM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Coll, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman MALCOLM MACMILLAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 51 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman DONALD MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Borrowston, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman KENNETH MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 24 Arnol, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman NORMAN MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 32B Knock, Carloway, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman ANGUS MACRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 37 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand DONALD MACRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 34 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Cooper 4th Class DONALD MACRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 46 Keith Street, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Gunner MALCOLM MARTIN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 21 Balallan, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman NORMAN MARTIN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Deckhand ANGUS MATHESON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Uigen, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman MALCOLM MATHESON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Upper Shader, died today in 1919
Seaman ANGUS McRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 38 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman ANGUS MONTGOMERY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Garyvard, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman NORMAN MONTGOMERY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 39
Seaman ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Eoropie, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Petty Officer ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Knockaird, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 31 Upper Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand DONALD MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Fivepenny, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman GEORGE MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Brenish, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Leading Seaman JOHN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Coll, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Leading Seaman JOHN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Knockaird, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman JOHN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 25
Seaman NORMAN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 Lionel, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman RODERICK MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 43
Seaman DONALD MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 22
Petty Officer DONALD MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 43 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Leading Seaman EVANDER MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 45 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Deckhand JOHN MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 30 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Seaman JOHN MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 Lionel, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman RODERICK MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 25 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman WILLIAM MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 23
Seaman WILLIAM JOHN (ROBERT) MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Well Cottage, Lighthill Back, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Seaman MALCOLM NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Ranish, died today in 1919
Deckhand MURDO NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Achmore, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Gunner DONALD SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 34 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman JOHN SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman JOHN SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 35
Seaman KENNETH SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Earshader, died today in 1919
Seaman KENNETH SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 28 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Assistant Steward ALFRED S TAYLOR, Merchant Navy, late of (not known), died today in 1919
Seaman MALCOLM THOMSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 14 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Engine Room Artificer 4th Class WILLIAM KIRK WILSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Beach House South Beach Street Stornoway, died today in 1919
Seaman JOHN MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 54 North Shawbost, died today in 1916 at the age of 28
Lost in the Iolaire
Seaman ALEX BEATON, Merchant Navy, late of 40 Coll, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Seaman PETER BUCHANAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 23 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman ALEX CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 26 Swordale, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman ALEX CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Vatisker, died today in 1919
Seaman ALEX JOHN CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 41 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman ANGUS CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 31 Lionel, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Leading Seaman DONALD CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 44 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Leading Seaman DONALD CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Vatisker, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Leading Seaman KENNETH CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 54 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Seaman MURDO CAMPBELL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Eorodale, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman ANGUS CRICHTON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Knock, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Seaman DONALD CRICHTON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Knock, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 23
Leading Decksteward CHARLES M DEWSBURY, Merchant Navy, late of 1 Rodney Road, Great Yarmouth, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman MURDO FERGUSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Lemreway, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman ANGUS GILLIES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 35 South Dell, died today in 1919 at the age of 30
Seaman DONALD WILLIAM GILLIES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 30 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Seaman DONALD MACARTHUR, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Kirivick, died today in 1919 at the age of 35
Seaman DONALD MACASKILL, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 9 Gravir, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman DONALD MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 14 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Lighthill Back, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman JOHN MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Kirivick, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman JOHN MACASKILL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Lower Sandwick, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Signaller JOHN ALEX MACASKILL, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 75 Keith Street, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Deckhand DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Hacklet, Great Bernera, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 41 Ranish, died today in 1919
Seaman DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 39
Seaman DONALD MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Deckhand DONALD M MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman JOHN MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11B Grimshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman MURDO MACAULAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 34
Seaman ALEX MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 29 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Chief Warrant Officer ALEX MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Newvalley, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Seaman ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 6 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Seaman ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 42 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman ANGUS MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Port of Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Signalboy DAVID MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 53 Virginia Street, Aberdeen, died today in 1919 at the age of 17
Leading Torpedoman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 35 Arnol, died today in 1919
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Back, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Leading Deckhand DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 44 Breasclete, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Leading Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Tobson, Great Bernera, died today in 1919 at the age of 36
Leading Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 23B Ranish, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Seaman DONALD MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Deckhand EWEN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Petty Officer JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Holm, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 25A Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Skigersta, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman JOHN (Jun) MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Seaman JOHN (Sen) MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 30
Seaman MALCOLM MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 57 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Seaman MURDO MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Borve, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Deckhand MURDO MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Fivig, Bragar,, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman MURDO MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Gunner RODERICK JOHN MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman WILLIAM MACDONALD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 44 Lower Bayble, Park, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DAVID MACINNES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2B Lemreway, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman MALCOLM MACINNES, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Lemreway, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Second Hand ALEX MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 19 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman ANGUS MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 45 Arnol, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman DONALD MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 38 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Petty Officer JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 46 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Mate JOHN MACIVER, Merchant Navy, late of 19 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 33 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Leading Seaman JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 69 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman JOHN MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Hill Street North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Second Hand MALCOLM MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 28 Aignish, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman MALCOLM MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 40 Breasclete, died today in 1919 at the age of 35
Seaman MURDO MACIVER, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 Lower Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 49
Second Hand ANGUS MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Second Hand ANGUS MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Hillside, Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Deckhand DONALD MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 22 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 22
Seaman MALCOLM MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman MALCOLM MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 14B Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Deckhand MURDO MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 North Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman MURDO MACKAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Swordale, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Signaller WILLIAM MACKAY, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 7 Fivepenny, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Seaman ALEX MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Aird, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman ALEX MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Aird, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Deckhand ALEX MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Gunner ALEX ANGUS MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Seaman DONALD MACKENZIE, Merchant Navy, late of 22 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Breaclet, Great Bernera, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 16 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 30
Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Marvig, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman KENNETH MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Newlands, Shader, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman MURDO MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Garenin, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman MURDO MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 15 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Seaman NORMAN MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Church Street Garrabost, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Second Hand RODERICK MACKENZIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Swordale, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman ANGUS MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 4 Caversta, died today in 1919
Deckhand MURDO MACKINNON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Brenish, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman DONALD MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 35 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman JOHN MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 48
Seaman MURDO MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 6 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman MURDO MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 30 Coll, died today in 1919
Seaman MURDO MACLEAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 39 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Seaman ANGUS MACLEAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 33 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman ALEX MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1A Garyvard, died today in 1919 at the age of 25
Seaman ALEX MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Portnaguran, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Seaman ALEX ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 21 Ranish, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman ALEX ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 28 Tolsta Chaolais, died today in 1919
Deckhand ALEX JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Broker, died today in 1919
Seaman ALLAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 25
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Knock, Point, died today in 1919 at the age of 23
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 46 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Newvalley, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman ANGUS MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 51
Deckhand DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Crossbost, died today in 1919
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5A Fivepenny, died today in 1919 at the age of 28
Leading Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 58 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 31
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 33
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 38 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 42 Keith Street, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Seaman DONALD MACLEOD, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 12 Murray's Court, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 43 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Able Seaman JOHN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 13 Crossbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Eorodale, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 30 Lower Garrabost, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 6 Kirivick, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 25 Laxay, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Seaman JOHN MACLEOD, Merchant Navy, late of 31 Ranish, died today in 1919 at the age of 39
Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 Uigen, died today in 1919 at the age of 22
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 29 North Shawbost, died today in 1919
Deckhand MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Aignish, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Gunner MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Balallan, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Crossbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 3 Grimshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Leading Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 58 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 24
Deckhand MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 32 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Voluntary Reserve, late of 28 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman MURDO MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Aird, died today in 1919 at the age of 43
Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 13 Arnol, died today in 1919 at the age of 36
Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Portnaguran, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 23 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Deckhand WILLIAM MACLEOD, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Coll, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman MALCOLM MACMILLAN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 51 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman DONALD MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Borrowston, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman KENNETH MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 24 Arnol, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman NORMAN MACPHAIL, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 32B Knock, Carloway, died today in 1919 at the age of 37
Seaman ANGUS MACRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 37 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand DONALD MACRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 34 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Cooper 4th Class DONALD MACRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 46 Keith Street, Stornoway, died today in 1919 at the age of 29
Gunner MALCOLM MARTIN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 21 Balallan, died today in 1919 at the age of 38
Seaman NORMAN MARTIN, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 Lower Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 42
Deckhand ANGUS MATHESON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 18 Uigen, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman MALCOLM MATHESON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Upper Shader, died today in 1919
Seaman ANGUS McRITCHIE, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 38 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman ANGUS MONTGOMERY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Garyvard, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Seaman NORMAN MONTGOMERY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 39
Seaman ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Eoropie, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Petty Officer ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 7 Knockaird, died today in 1919 at the age of 32
Seaman ANGUS MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 31 Upper Shader, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Deckhand DONALD MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Fivepenny, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman GEORGE MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Brenish, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Leading Seaman JOHN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 Coll, died today in 1919 at the age of 44
Leading Seaman JOHN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 12 Knockaird, died today in 1919 at the age of 18
Seaman JOHN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 8 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 25
Seaman NORMAN MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 Lionel, died today in 1919 at the age of 20
Seaman RODERICK MORRISON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 2 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 43
Seaman DONALD MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Habost, Ness, died today in 1919 at the age of 22
Petty Officer DONALD MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 43 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 40
Leading Seaman EVANDER MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 45 North Tolsta, died today in 1919 at the age of 45
Deckhand JOHN MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 30 South Bragar, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Seaman JOHN MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 36 Lionel, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman RODERICK MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 25 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 19
Seaman WILLIAM MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 Sheshader, died today in 1919 at the age of 23
Seaman WILLIAM JOHN (ROBERT) MURRAY, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Well Cottage, Lighthill Back, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 10 North Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 50
Seaman MALCOLM NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 20 Ranish, died today in 1919
Deckhand MURDO NICOLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Crowlista, died today in 1919 at the age of 21
Seaman DONALD SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 5 Achmore, died today in 1919 at the age of 26
Gunner DONALD SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 34 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Seaman JOHN SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 17 Upper Bayble, died today in 1919 at the age of 46
Seaman JOHN SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 11 South Shawbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 35
Seaman KENNETH SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 1 Earshader, died today in 1919
Seaman KENNETH SMITH, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 28 Leurbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 41
Assistant Steward ALFRED S TAYLOR, Merchant Navy, late of (not known), died today in 1919
Seaman MALCOLM THOMSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of 14 Swainbost, died today in 1919 at the age of 27
Engine Room Artificer 4th Class WILLIAM KIRK WILSON, Royal Naval Reserve, late of Beach House South Beach Street Stornoway, died today in 1919
Remembering today
I am scheduling this blog to publish on each day of the year 2011 a list of names of men from Lewis who lost their lives on that day between the years 1914 to 1921, as a direct result of their war service. There will not necessarily be a post on each and every day of the year. The list varies in length from one to 186. Individual information on the list will be sparse, with more details on the Faces from the Lewis War Memorial website.
Six years ago today
11 January 2005 is one of those days that everybody who was in the Outer Hebrides at the time will not forget. A deep Atlantic depression moved past our islands, bringing with it winds of force 12 on the Beaufort scale, with gusts in excess of 130 mph. At the time, I was staying in Kershader, 12 miles south of Stornoway as the crow flies - more like 22 miles by road. At 6.22pm, the power went off, not to go back on again for 48 hours. The wind was already howling around the building. Blue flashing lights penetrated the darkness from across Loch Erisort - police cars were stopping traffic on the Stornoway to Tarbert road after a lorry driver reported a sheep flying past his windscreen. The driver of the South Lochs bus that night was mightily relieved to make it home in one piece, he told me later. Trees were downed, roofs taken off, vehicles crushed under trees - and hundreds of them toppled in the Castle Grounds in Stornoway. High tides lapped at the doors of people on Cromwell Street and Bayhead in the town. Boats were torn off their moorings and smashed into the ferry terminal. Slates became like missiles, and pedestrians blown off their feet. Some who sought refuge were denied entry; others were taken inside.
The next morning dawned breezy and bright. Everybody heaved a sigh of relief. That was a bad one, but it's only damage. By 9.20 am however, reports start to emerge from the Southern Isles. Five people are missing in South Uist, after they fled their home the previous evening at around 7pm. Rising tides had started to approach their home, and pebbles were hurled against walls and windows. They enter two cars and drive from their home at Eochdar towards the causeway, linking South Uist and Benbecula. A fatal decision. That road parallels the stretch of sea that separates the two islands. The southeasterly storm, combined with a springtide from the northwest pushed the waters of Loch Bi up; but on account of the floodtide they could not drain into the sea. The loch flooded a small causeway, sweeping the cars into the water. By morning, the five missing people are found dead. They include a mother and father with two young children and a grandfather.
The next morning dawned breezy and bright. Everybody heaved a sigh of relief. That was a bad one, but it's only damage. By 9.20 am however, reports start to emerge from the Southern Isles. Five people are missing in South Uist, after they fled their home the previous evening at around 7pm. Rising tides had started to approach their home, and pebbles were hurled against walls and windows. They enter two cars and drive from their home at Eochdar towards the causeway, linking South Uist and Benbecula. A fatal decision. That road parallels the stretch of sea that separates the two islands. The southeasterly storm, combined with a springtide from the northwest pushed the waters of Loch Bi up; but on account of the floodtide they could not drain into the sea. The loch flooded a small causeway, sweeping the cars into the water. By morning, the five missing people are found dead. They include a mother and father with two young children and a grandfather.
Sunday, 2 January 2011
The Iolaire story
This is the full story, as told in five parts between 7.30pm on December 31st and 9.10 am on January 1st.
It is Hogmanay 1918, and the war has been over for seven weeks. Survivors from the Western Front and the war at sea are flocking home. As are hundreds of sailors from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Three trains pull into the harbourside station at Kyle of Lochalsh, and hundreds pour onto the platform and adjoining quayside to join a ferry home. The Skye men can take the short hop to Kyleakin, or join the steamer north to Portree. The sailors and soldiers from the Outer Hebrides have a longer journey ahead of them.
The mailsteamer for Stornoway, the Sheila is alongside at Kyle, but it very rapidly becomes clear that she has nowhere near enough space to accommodate the hundreds that want to go home to Lewis and Harris. So, a cable is sent to the naval base at Stornoway, and Rear Admiral Boyle sends HMY Iolaire to Kyle to relieve the congestion. Iolaire, the former private steamyacht Amalthea arrives in the early evening, bumping into the pier as she docks.
A disorganised scramble occurs, where the throng of men divides between the Sheila and the Iolaire. No record is kept as to who goes on board which vessel. Some start off by boarding the Iolaire, then switch to the Sheila. Others do the reverse swap. Finally, at half past seven, Iolaire casts off and heads north. The Sheila follows suit in short order.
The year 1918 is drawing to a close and Big Ben in London is about to start striking the midnight hour. Six hundred miles to the north, HMY Iolaire is ploughing her way north through the Minch, passing between Raasay, Rona and the Scottish mainland. The weather, which had been reasonable upon departure from Kyle, is turning increasingly windy. A heavy swell is beginning to rise in response to the strong southerly wind. The lighthouses, which serve as reference points for mariners in the Minch, blink their messages to Iolaire. Milaid, on the rocky cliffs near Kebock Head; Rona; Tiumpan Head on the eastern extremity of the Point Peninsula; and Arnish, near the entrance to Stornoway Harbour.
In dozens of houses in Lewis, glasses are charged to the New Year. The last year of war is ending.
Dry clothes are draped over beds, a stew is heating over the fire. In the blackhouses in Ness, and the town houses of Stornoway. A kettle is at the ready on the stove. A plate, cutlery and cups on the table. From Eoropie to Brenish, from Lemreway to North Tolsta, and between Manor Park and Newton, the same scene is repeated over and over. Only two hours to go, the boat won't make Hogmanay. But it does not really matter, the boys will be home soon.
The clock strikes midnight. It is 1919.
Conditions in the Minch are now poor, and all on board Iolaire are glad that the journey is nearly over. The passengers, most of them familiar with the passage to Stornoway, are snoozing their way, lulled to slumber by the steady if roughish motion of the waves that Iolaire rides. The captain goes down below to rest, his second-in-command takes over on the bridge. A fishing boat is also on its way home to Stornoway, and is running a broadly parallel course to Iolaire.
The passengers can now see the lights of Stornoway ahead, as well as the familiar signal of the Arnish Lighthouse and its secondary beacon. All begin to stir and start to prepare for disembarkation, which is now only about a quarter of or half an hour away. But all is not well. The sound of waves striking shore becomes audible over the noise of wind and swell.
The next noise is a far greater one. Iolaire changes course abruptly, as the crew realise they have overshot the harbour entrance. But it is too late. At 1.55 am, the ship comes to a crashing halt on the rocks of the Beasts of Holm.
Iolaire was mortally damaged by her grounding, and would eventually slip from the rocks and sink into the depths beside the Beasts of Holm. Only her mast would be left showing above the waves.
Flares were let off, which were spotted by the fishing boat and the Sheila, which were running into Stornoway behind Iolaire. Conditions, however, were too severe for any direct help to be offered by any vessel, as they would place themselves into severe danger. One intrepid man managed to bring a hawser ashore, which was to become a literal lifeline for nearly four dozen souls. Others attempted to use the lifeboats, which were almost immediately swamped by the heavy swell, or smashed on the rocks nearby. For Iolaire only grounded about 50 yards from shore. Those who jumped into the sea drowned almost at once, or were smashed onto the rocks, left lifeless. A life-saving apparatus, a breeches' buoy, which had been brought from Stornoway, came way too late to be useful.
Some of those that survived made their way to Stoneyfield Farm, about half a mile from the scene of Iolaire's sinking, and their terrible news was relayed to Stornoway. The flares had been spotted from the town, but had been (mis)taken for celebratory rockets.
The houses waited. The stew over the fire, the teapot on the stove. The clothes on the bed, and the made up table. The families, friends and other islanders waited. Then news filtered through into, and from Stornoway. The Iolaire was lost. Several dozen had been saved. But so many more were not. A night of terrifying uncertainty drew on. Would he be among the saved?
It is early January, and daylight is still many hours away.
It is just after 9 o'clock, and the sun rises over the mountains of mainland Scotland. Its light sweeps west, and shows up a ship's mast protruding from the sea, only a few dozen yards from the shore of Holm Point. The figure of a man can be made out, as he holds on for dear life. As he has done for nigh upon seven hours. Others had been with him, but their strength had given out, and had fallen into the sea below. The man is saved from his precarious position. He had been one of about three hundred on board Iolaire who had left Kyle the evening before, expecting to arrive in Stornoway at 2 am. Instead, two hundred would never return home, and some sixty would never be retrieved.
A gruesome sight presented itself on the shores, beaches and rocky outcrops of eastern Lewis, around the bay of Stornoway. East to Knock, north to Sandwick and Stornoway, south to Grimshader. One hundred and forty bobbed on the tide, lost in the Iolaire. Those that could be retrieved were taken to the naval base at the Battery in Stornoway, to be identified and collected by family.
Those who had not yet had news of the tragedy would soon receive it, as elders of the church went round, the bearers of the news of loss. A brother, a father. An uncle, a nephew. A son, a cousin. No village was spared. No family who was not directly or indirectly affected. The stories abound, but are not readily told.
It is 2011, and dawn has broken on a new year. Two years ago, several hundred gathered at the little memorial at Holm Point to remember. It was a beautiful mild winter's day, with not a breath of wind. We looked south, across the Minch, where the jagged humps of the Shiants, the distant lines of Skye, and on a day of exceptional clarity, even the hills behind Kyle can be made out, 75 miles away. In this day and age, a short journey. In 1919, a journey that was never completed by two hundred and five souls.
Rest in peace.
A full listing of names can be found here
Postscript
The exact cause for the foundering of HMY Iolaire has never been fully cleared up, and theories abound. There are accusations of a cover-up by the Royal Navy, drunkenness on the part of the crew, and speculation on the factors played by the weather. It is not the object of this blog to apportion blame, or determine the exact cause for the tragedy. This is a tribute to the two hundred and five who perished at the Beasts of Holm that New Year's night in 1919.
It is Hogmanay 1918, and the war has been over for seven weeks. Survivors from the Western Front and the war at sea are flocking home. As are hundreds of sailors from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Three trains pull into the harbourside station at Kyle of Lochalsh, and hundreds pour onto the platform and adjoining quayside to join a ferry home. The Skye men can take the short hop to Kyleakin, or join the steamer north to Portree. The sailors and soldiers from the Outer Hebrides have a longer journey ahead of them.
The mailsteamer for Stornoway, the Sheila is alongside at Kyle, but it very rapidly becomes clear that she has nowhere near enough space to accommodate the hundreds that want to go home to Lewis and Harris. So, a cable is sent to the naval base at Stornoway, and Rear Admiral Boyle sends HMY Iolaire to Kyle to relieve the congestion. Iolaire, the former private steamyacht Amalthea arrives in the early evening, bumping into the pier as she docks.
A disorganised scramble occurs, where the throng of men divides between the Sheila and the Iolaire. No record is kept as to who goes on board which vessel. Some start off by boarding the Iolaire, then switch to the Sheila. Others do the reverse swap. Finally, at half past seven, Iolaire casts off and heads north. The Sheila follows suit in short order.
The year 1918 is drawing to a close and Big Ben in London is about to start striking the midnight hour. Six hundred miles to the north, HMY Iolaire is ploughing her way north through the Minch, passing between Raasay, Rona and the Scottish mainland. The weather, which had been reasonable upon departure from Kyle, is turning increasingly windy. A heavy swell is beginning to rise in response to the strong southerly wind. The lighthouses, which serve as reference points for mariners in the Minch, blink their messages to Iolaire. Milaid, on the rocky cliffs near Kebock Head; Rona; Tiumpan Head on the eastern extremity of the Point Peninsula; and Arnish, near the entrance to Stornoway Harbour.
In dozens of houses in Lewis, glasses are charged to the New Year. The last year of war is ending.
Dry clothes are draped over beds, a stew is heating over the fire. In the blackhouses in Ness, and the town houses of Stornoway. A kettle is at the ready on the stove. A plate, cutlery and cups on the table. From Eoropie to Brenish, from Lemreway to North Tolsta, and between Manor Park and Newton, the same scene is repeated over and over. Only two hours to go, the boat won't make Hogmanay. But it does not really matter, the boys will be home soon.
The clock strikes midnight. It is 1919.
Conditions in the Minch are now poor, and all on board Iolaire are glad that the journey is nearly over. The passengers, most of them familiar with the passage to Stornoway, are snoozing their way, lulled to slumber by the steady if roughish motion of the waves that Iolaire rides. The captain goes down below to rest, his second-in-command takes over on the bridge. A fishing boat is also on its way home to Stornoway, and is running a broadly parallel course to Iolaire.
The passengers can now see the lights of Stornoway ahead, as well as the familiar signal of the Arnish Lighthouse and its secondary beacon. All begin to stir and start to prepare for disembarkation, which is now only about a quarter of or half an hour away. But all is not well. The sound of waves striking shore becomes audible over the noise of wind and swell.
The next noise is a far greater one. Iolaire changes course abruptly, as the crew realise they have overshot the harbour entrance. But it is too late. At 1.55 am, the ship comes to a crashing halt on the rocks of the Beasts of Holm.
Iolaire was mortally damaged by her grounding, and would eventually slip from the rocks and sink into the depths beside the Beasts of Holm. Only her mast would be left showing above the waves.
Flares were let off, which were spotted by the fishing boat and the Sheila, which were running into Stornoway behind Iolaire. Conditions, however, were too severe for any direct help to be offered by any vessel, as they would place themselves into severe danger. One intrepid man managed to bring a hawser ashore, which was to become a literal lifeline for nearly four dozen souls. Others attempted to use the lifeboats, which were almost immediately swamped by the heavy swell, or smashed on the rocks nearby. For Iolaire only grounded about 50 yards from shore. Those who jumped into the sea drowned almost at once, or were smashed onto the rocks, left lifeless. A life-saving apparatus, a breeches' buoy, which had been brought from Stornoway, came way too late to be useful.
Some of those that survived made their way to Stoneyfield Farm, about half a mile from the scene of Iolaire's sinking, and their terrible news was relayed to Stornoway. The flares had been spotted from the town, but had been (mis)taken for celebratory rockets.
The houses waited. The stew over the fire, the teapot on the stove. The clothes on the bed, and the made up table. The families, friends and other islanders waited. Then news filtered through into, and from Stornoway. The Iolaire was lost. Several dozen had been saved. But so many more were not. A night of terrifying uncertainty drew on. Would he be among the saved?
It is early January, and daylight is still many hours away.
It is just after 9 o'clock, and the sun rises over the mountains of mainland Scotland. Its light sweeps west, and shows up a ship's mast protruding from the sea, only a few dozen yards from the shore of Holm Point. The figure of a man can be made out, as he holds on for dear life. As he has done for nigh upon seven hours. Others had been with him, but their strength had given out, and had fallen into the sea below. The man is saved from his precarious position. He had been one of about three hundred on board Iolaire who had left Kyle the evening before, expecting to arrive in Stornoway at 2 am. Instead, two hundred would never return home, and some sixty would never be retrieved.
A gruesome sight presented itself on the shores, beaches and rocky outcrops of eastern Lewis, around the bay of Stornoway. East to Knock, north to Sandwick and Stornoway, south to Grimshader. One hundred and forty bobbed on the tide, lost in the Iolaire. Those that could be retrieved were taken to the naval base at the Battery in Stornoway, to be identified and collected by family.
Those who had not yet had news of the tragedy would soon receive it, as elders of the church went round, the bearers of the news of loss. A brother, a father. An uncle, a nephew. A son, a cousin. No village was spared. No family who was not directly or indirectly affected. The stories abound, but are not readily told.
It is 2011, and dawn has broken on a new year. Two years ago, several hundred gathered at the little memorial at Holm Point to remember. It was a beautiful mild winter's day, with not a breath of wind. We looked south, across the Minch, where the jagged humps of the Shiants, the distant lines of Skye, and on a day of exceptional clarity, even the hills behind Kyle can be made out, 75 miles away. In this day and age, a short journey. In 1919, a journey that was never completed by two hundred and five souls.
Rest in peace.
A full listing of names can be found here
Postscript
The exact cause for the foundering of HMY Iolaire has never been fully cleared up, and theories abound. There are accusations of a cover-up by the Royal Navy, drunkenness on the part of the crew, and speculation on the factors played by the weather. It is not the object of this blog to apportion blame, or determine the exact cause for the tragedy. This is a tribute to the two hundred and five who perished at the Beasts of Holm that New Year's night in 1919.
Saturday, 1 January 2011
92 years ago - daybreak
It is just after 9 o'clock, and the sun rises over the mountains of mainland Scotland. Its light sweeps west, and shows up a ship's mast protruding from the sea, only a few dozen yards from the shore of Holm Point. The figure of a man can be made out, as he holds on for dear life. As he has done for nigh upon seven hours. Others had been with him, but their strength had given out, and had fallen into the sea below. The man is saved from his precarious position. He had been one of about three hundred on board Iolaire who had left Kyle the evening before, expecting to arrive in Stornoway at 2 am. Instead, two hundred would never return home, and some sixty would never be retrieved.
A gruesome sight presented itself on the shores, beaches and rocky outcrops of eastern Lewis, around the bay of Stornoway. East to Knock, north to Sandwick and Stornoway, south to Grimshader. One hundred and forty bobbed on the tide, lost in the Iolaire. Those that could be retrieved were taken to the naval base at the Battery in Stornoway, to be identified and collected by family.
Those who had not yet had news of the tragedy would soon receive it, as elders of the church went round, the bearers of the news of loss. A brother, a father. An uncle, a nephew. A son, a cousin. No village was spared. No family who was not directly or indirectly affected. The stories abound, but are not readily told.
It is 2011, and dawn has broken on a new year. Two years ago, several hundred gathered at the little memorial at Holm Point to remember. It was a beautiful mild winter's day, with not a breath of wind. We looked south, across the Minch, where the jagged humps of the Shiants, the distant lines of Skye, and on a day of exceptional clarity, even the hills behind Kyle can be made out, 75 miles away. In this day and age, a short journey. In 1919, a journey that was never completed by two hundred and five souls.
Rest in peace.
A full listing of names can be found here
A gruesome sight presented itself on the shores, beaches and rocky outcrops of eastern Lewis, around the bay of Stornoway. East to Knock, north to Sandwick and Stornoway, south to Grimshader. One hundred and forty bobbed on the tide, lost in the Iolaire. Those that could be retrieved were taken to the naval base at the Battery in Stornoway, to be identified and collected by family.
Those who had not yet had news of the tragedy would soon receive it, as elders of the church went round, the bearers of the news of loss. A brother, a father. An uncle, a nephew. A son, a cousin. No village was spared. No family who was not directly or indirectly affected. The stories abound, but are not readily told.
It is 2011, and dawn has broken on a new year. Two years ago, several hundred gathered at the little memorial at Holm Point to remember. It was a beautiful mild winter's day, with not a breath of wind. We looked south, across the Minch, where the jagged humps of the Shiants, the distant lines of Skye, and on a day of exceptional clarity, even the hills behind Kyle can be made out, 75 miles away. In this day and age, a short journey. In 1919, a journey that was never completed by two hundred and five souls.
Rest in peace.
A full listing of names can be found here
92 years ago - 03:00
Iolaire was mortally damaged by her grounding, and would eventually slip from the rocks and sink into the depths beside the Beasts of Holm. Only her mast would be left showing above the waves.
Flares were let off, which were spotted by the fishing boat and the Sheila, which were running into Stornoway behind Iolaire. Conditions, however, were too severe for any direct help to be offered by any vessel, as they would place themselves into severe danger. One intrepid man managed to bring a hawser ashore, which was to become a literal lifeline for nearly four dozen souls. Others attempted to use the lifeboats, which were almost immediately swamped by the heavy swell, or smashed on the rocks nearby. For Iolaire only grounded about 50 yards from shore. Those who jumped into the sea drowned almost at once, or were smashed onto the rocks, left lifeless. A life-saving apparatus, a breeches' buoy, which had been brought from Stornoway, came way too late to be useful.
Some of those that survived made their way to Stoneyfield Farm, about half a mile from the scene of Iolaire's sinking, and their terrible news was relayed to Stornoway. The flares had been spotted from the town, but had been (mis)taken for celebratory rockets.
The houses waited. The stew over the fire, the teapot on the stove. The clothes on the bed, and the made up table. The families, friends and other islanders waited. Then news filtered through into, and from Stornoway. The Iolaire was lost. Several dozen had been saved. But so many more were not. A night of terrifying uncertainty drew on. Would he be among the saved?
It is early January, and daylight is still many hours away.
To be continued.
Flares were let off, which were spotted by the fishing boat and the Sheila, which were running into Stornoway behind Iolaire. Conditions, however, were too severe for any direct help to be offered by any vessel, as they would place themselves into severe danger. One intrepid man managed to bring a hawser ashore, which was to become a literal lifeline for nearly four dozen souls. Others attempted to use the lifeboats, which were almost immediately swamped by the heavy swell, or smashed on the rocks nearby. For Iolaire only grounded about 50 yards from shore. Those who jumped into the sea drowned almost at once, or were smashed onto the rocks, left lifeless. A life-saving apparatus, a breeches' buoy, which had been brought from Stornoway, came way too late to be useful.
Some of those that survived made their way to Stoneyfield Farm, about half a mile from the scene of Iolaire's sinking, and their terrible news was relayed to Stornoway. The flares had been spotted from the town, but had been (mis)taken for celebratory rockets.
The houses waited. The stew over the fire, the teapot on the stove. The clothes on the bed, and the made up table. The families, friends and other islanders waited. Then news filtered through into, and from Stornoway. The Iolaire was lost. Several dozen had been saved. But so many more were not. A night of terrifying uncertainty drew on. Would he be among the saved?
It is early January, and daylight is still many hours away.
To be continued.
92 years ago - 01:55
Conditions in the Minch are now poor, and all on board Iolaire are glad that the journey is nearly over. The passengers, most of them familiar with the passage to Stornoway, are snoozing their way, lulled to slumber by the steady if roughish motion of the waves that Iolaire rides. The captain goes down below to rest, his second-in-command takes over on the bridge. A fishing boat is also on its way home to Stornoway, and is running a broadly parallel course to Iolaire.
The passengers can now see the lights of Stornoway ahead, as well as the familiar signal of the Arnish Lighthouse and its secondary beacon. All begin to stir and start to prepare for disembarkation, which is now only about a quarter of or half an hour away. But all is not well. The sound of waves striking shore becomes audible over the noise of wind and swell.
The next noise is a far greater one. Iolaire changes course abruptly, as the crew realise they have overshot the harbour entrance. But it is too late. At 1.55 am, the ship comes to a crashing halt on the rocks of the Beasts of Holm.
The passengers can now see the lights of Stornoway ahead, as well as the familiar signal of the Arnish Lighthouse and its secondary beacon. All begin to stir and start to prepare for disembarkation, which is now only about a quarter of or half an hour away. But all is not well. The sound of waves striking shore becomes audible over the noise of wind and swell.
The next noise is a far greater one. Iolaire changes course abruptly, as the crew realise they have overshot the harbour entrance. But it is too late. At 1.55 am, the ship comes to a crashing halt on the rocks of the Beasts of Holm.
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