Monday 23 May 2011

Napier witnesses: Donald Campbell

Donald Campbell gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission during its session at Stornoway on 8 June 1883. He represented the township of South Tolsta. We find him in the 1881 census as living at 18 Tolsta, a crofter, 57 years of age, married to Catherine, the same age. Living in the same household are their children Anne (30), John (21) and Margaret (4) as well as granddaughter Christina (5).

In 1871, the family lived at 75 Tolsta. We also find a daughter Catherine (16) and son Angus (9). Margaret is marked as aged 1 on this census; I have not been able to reliably ascertain her correct year of birth.

In 1861, we find the Campbells at "1 Straight Street" in South Tolsta, with children Mary (10), Anne (9), Christina (7), Catherine and Jessie (both aged 4) and John (2).

The 1851 census lists Donald (29) and Catherine (26) at South Tolsta, with Jean (aged 12??), Mary (1) and Ann (2 months).

The 1841 census shows Donald as a 15-year old in South Tolsta, living with his parents John (40) and Mary (35) and his five younger siblings Isabella (12), Mary (9), Alexander (6), Christian (3) and Angus (1).

Fifty years later, Donald and Catherine are aged 67 and 65, living with their daughters Annie (38) and Jessie (33). The latter is married to John Murray, who is also present in the house.

Donald Campbell passed away on 21 October 1903, aged 80, having suffered from the infirmities of old age. His son John reported the death, but was unable to write his name. His wife Catherine, nee Maciver, died in 1910 at the age of 84.

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