Armistice Day is nearly upon us, and I feel it is appropriate
to post a reminder of my links that commemorate the Fallen from the
Outer Hebrides in both World Wars.
Centenary of Sacrifice
is an on-going project, which will post the names of all the Fallen
from these islands on the date, 100 years later, on which they died.
Isle of Lewis
Faces from the Lewis War Memorial
A listing of the casualties from Lewis from WW1.
Lewismen lost in the Great War
A
listing of the casualties from Lewis from WW1, including all available
information (e.g. images of war graves, transcript of Stornoway Gazette
tributes etc).
Roll of Honour, Isle of Lewis 1914-1919
A transcript of Loyal Lewis, Roll of Honour, listing all from the island who served during WW1
Tributes for the War Memorial
A transcript of tributes from the Stornoway Gazette to WW1 casualties from Lewis
Tributes for the War Memorial (WW2)
A transcript of tributes from the Stornoway Gazette to WW2 casualties from Lewis
John Macaulay RNR and SS Kenmare
The story of one WW1 casualty, the ship on which he died and the U-boat that launched the fatal torpedo
Lewismen in Australian service
A listing of those WW1 casualties who served with the Australian forces
Lewismen in Canadian service
A listing of those WW1 casualties from Lewis who served with the Canadian Expeditionary Force
Lewismen from the 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
A
listing of WW1 casualties from the 2nd battalion Seaforth Highlanders ,
accompanied by transcripts from the battalion war diary for the day on
which they died.
Iolaire Disaster 1919
Listing of all casualties who died in the sinking of HMY Iolaire on New Year's Day 1919
HMS Timbertown
About the internment camp at Groningen, Holland, where 105 Lewismen were interned during WW1
World War II tribute for Lewis
A listing of WW2 casualties from Lewis
Wargraves in Lewis
Photographs of all CWGC and private wargraves in Lewis and information on the casualties
War memorials in Lewis
Photographs of all war memorials in Lewis with transcripts.
Southern Isles
Outer Hebrides losses in the Great War
A
listing of military and personal details of the WW1 casualties from
Harris, Berneray, North Uist, Grimsay, South Uist, Eriskay and Barra
Berneray to Vatersay tribute
A listing of the WW1 and WW2 casualties from
Berneray, North Uist, Grimsay, South Uist, Eriskay and Barra
Harris War Memorial
A listing of the casualties from Harris from WW1 and WW2.
Western Isles wargraves
A listing of all wargraves in the Western Isles, listed by cemetery
Western Isles war memorials
A listing of all war memorials in the Western Isle
Other
Lyness Royal Naval Cemetery
A
listing of photographs of wargraves and military information of the
casualties, interred at the Lyness Royal Naval Cemetery in Orkney
Showing posts with label harris. Show all posts
Showing posts with label harris. Show all posts
Friday, 7 November 2014
Sunday, 8 December 2013
Second World War casualties from the Southern Isles
Completed the WW2 listings from the Southern Isles.
Barra & Vatersay: 55 (51 served in the Merchant Navy).
Benbecula: 6
Berneray: 4
Eriskay: 5
Grimsay: 3
Harris: 62
North Uist: 30
South Uist: 41
Total: 211 (there is a degree of cross-over between the islands)
1939: 4
1940: 44
1941: 36
1942: 25
1943: 19
1944: 20
1945: 11
and 4 died in 1946 and 1947
There are 48 casualties on whom I have very little information.
Of the 211 casualties:
121 were in the Merchant Navy
55 were in the Army, of whom 28 in the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
13 in the RAF
19 in the Royal Navy or Royal Naval Reserves
4 were women
Barra & Vatersay: 55 (51 served in the Merchant Navy).
Benbecula: 6
Berneray: 4
Eriskay: 5
Grimsay: 3
Harris: 62
North Uist: 30
South Uist: 41
Total: 211 (there is a degree of cross-over between the islands)
1939: 4
1940: 44
1941: 36
1942: 25
1943: 19
1944: 20
1945: 11
and 4 died in 1946 and 1947
There are 48 casualties on whom I have very little information.
Of the 211 casualties:
121 were in the Merchant Navy
55 were in the Army, of whom 28 in the Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders
13 in the RAF
19 in the Royal Navy or Royal Naval Reserves
4 were women
Tuesday, 12 July 2011
Remembering the men of Harris
Spent an hour or so in Stornoway Library today transcribing tributes to Harris men, who fell in 1917. There were only four tributes in the Stornoway Gazette of 1917, and one for a man from Berneray. The Tarbert War Memorial shows rather more, but details are rather scant. Nonetheless, I managed to fill in the details on one of them: John Morrison, who is listed on the Tarbert Memorial as being from Ard Slave [Ard Shleibhe].
Examination of his service record show that he came from "Beckrivig". A glance at the Ordnance Survey map translates that into Beacrabhaig, half a mile north of Ard Shleibhe on the road to Geocrab in the Bays area of Harris. John Morrison was killed in action on 17 July 1917 at the age of 34. He served with the 46th Australian Infantry, which he joined in November 1915. John was survived by his father Donald, I believe (although not with great certainty) that his mother's name was Mary.
Examination of his service record show that he came from "Beckrivig". A glance at the Ordnance Survey map translates that into Beacrabhaig, half a mile north of Ard Shleibhe on the road to Geocrab in the Bays area of Harris. John Morrison was killed in action on 17 July 1917 at the age of 34. He served with the 46th Australian Infantry, which he joined in November 1915. John was survived by his father Donald, I believe (although not with great certainty) that his mother's name was Mary.
Monday, 4 April 2011
Napier witnesses: Lachlan Campbell
Lachlan Campbell is found on the 1881 census aged 45, married to Catherine (30). He lives at the fish curer's house, he is marked as a fish curer. His children are Ann (5), John (3) and Malcolm (9 months). Rachel is also present, she was Lachlan's mother. Marg[are]t Macdonald (40), Ann Maclennan (25, born in Lochs Parish, Lewis) are domestic servants, with Niel Mackinnon (17) in the house as a herdsman.
A decade later, Lachlan's address is clarified as 2 Scadabay, now a fisherman and crofter. Although his eldest daughter is not listed, five younger children have appeared on the scene. Johan (8), Rachel (8), Effy (6), Marion (4) and Donald (2). Margaret (36), quoted on the census form as Lachlan's daughter, is a domestic servant. I rather think, as is borne out in the 1901 census, that she is Lachlan's sister.
In 1901, we see the family progressing further, with only the twins Johan and Rachel (18), Euphea [Euphemia] (16), Marion (14) and Donald (12) remaining at home. The family has expanded further, with the addition of Kenneth (10) and Eliza (8) since 1891. Margaret Macdonald is still in the house as a domestic servant.
Thirty years before, Lachlan is not yet married. He is at "Shipowners' House", with his mother Rachel (65, annuitant) and his siblings Malm (32), Euphemia (22) and domestic Margaret Mcdonald (22). Also present at that time was William Dingwall (32), a schoolmaster.
In 1861, Lachlan is a young man of 24, living in Scadabay with his parents John (60) and Rachel (50). Also present are his siblings Roderick (28), John (22) and Owen (17).
In 1851, we see more of Lachlan's siblings, as the family live in Scadabay. There are Kenneth (18), Roderick (16), Malcolm (14), John (10), Ewen (7) and Effy (4).
Lachlan Campbell died in Northton on 2 March 1925 at the age of 88, of supposed old age. No doctor attended his death. Lachlan is quoted as the widower of Kate Macdonald. His father John is marked as a shipowner.
A decade later, Lachlan's address is clarified as 2 Scadabay, now a fisherman and crofter. Although his eldest daughter is not listed, five younger children have appeared on the scene. Johan (8), Rachel (8), Effy (6), Marion (4) and Donald (2). Margaret (36), quoted on the census form as Lachlan's daughter, is a domestic servant. I rather think, as is borne out in the 1901 census, that she is Lachlan's sister.
In 1901, we see the family progressing further, with only the twins Johan and Rachel (18), Euphea [Euphemia] (16), Marion (14) and Donald (12) remaining at home. The family has expanded further, with the addition of Kenneth (10) and Eliza (8) since 1891. Margaret Macdonald is still in the house as a domestic servant.
Thirty years before, Lachlan is not yet married. He is at "Shipowners' House", with his mother Rachel (65, annuitant) and his siblings Malm (32), Euphemia (22) and domestic Margaret Mcdonald (22). Also present at that time was William Dingwall (32), a schoolmaster.
In 1861, Lachlan is a young man of 24, living in Scadabay with his parents John (60) and Rachel (50). Also present are his siblings Roderick (28), John (22) and Owen (17).
In 1851, we see more of Lachlan's siblings, as the family live in Scadabay. There are Kenneth (18), Roderick (16), Malcolm (14), John (10), Ewen (7) and Effy (4).
Lachlan Campbell died in Northton on 2 March 1925 at the age of 88, of supposed old age. No doctor attended his death. Lachlan is quoted as the widower of Kate Macdonald. His father John is marked as a shipowner.
Napier witnesses: Donald Macdonald
Donald Macdonald, a crofter from Grosebay, had me searching from his death backwards in time. He died on 7 September 1886 at the age of 75. He was the widower of Effy, nee Macaulay, and the son of Kenneth Macdonald and Christy (or Chirsty), nee Macleod. He died after suffering from bronchitis for 5 months, and from senile decay for 6 months. His son Donald reported his death to the registrar.
In 1871, we find Don[al]d and his wife Effy in a tenants' house in Harris, enumeration district 12. Also present are his son Neil (26, fisherman), Donald (20, fisherman), Roderick (17, ag labourer), Ann (14, gen servant) and Murdo (12). Moving forward a decade, we find Donald (aged 70) and his daughter Ann (24), living in a crofter's house in enumeration district 2.
In 1851, there is a Donald Macdonald, tenant at Grosebay (farmer of 4 acres, employing no servants) , with children Keneth (11), Niel (9), Isabella (7), Alexander (5) and Donald (3). We can link the Niel and the Donald to the children he had in 1871.
In 1871, we find Don[al]d and his wife Effy in a tenants' house in Harris, enumeration district 12. Also present are his son Neil (26, fisherman), Donald (20, fisherman), Roderick (17, ag labourer), Ann (14, gen servant) and Murdo (12). Moving forward a decade, we find Donald (aged 70) and his daughter Ann (24), living in a crofter's house in enumeration district 2.
In 1851, there is a Donald Macdonald, tenant at Grosebay (farmer of 4 acres, employing no servants) , with children Keneth (11), Niel (9), Isabella (7), Alexander (5) and Donald (3). We can link the Niel and the Donald to the children he had in 1871.
Sunday, 3 April 2011
Napier witnesses: Ronald Macdonald
Ronald Macdonald is the brother of the tacksman for Taransay, and the second of the witnesses from that island.
We find him in the 1881 census as a farmer's son on Taransay. Other family members include Mary Macdonald (80), farmer's widow, Kimber. Rodrica (39) is her daughter. Listed alongside the Macdonalds are John Morrison (32), a sheepherd (sic); Mary Macaskill (22, general serv, domestic); Mary Mackay (16, general serv, domestic) and Archibald Macdonald (16), a herdboy. Whether he is related to the family is not mentioned on the census.
A decade earlier, we find the Macdonalds at Paible House, Taransay. Mary (63) is a farmer's wife with her sons Donald (43), Ronald (34), Roderica (28), Catherine Mary (24) and Donalda (20). In addition, we find Mary Morrison (22, born at Ardhasaig), a farm servant; Christy Macaskill (30, born at Berneray), a farm servant; and Johny Morrison (16), born at Kendulavig (near Obbe), a cattle herd.
In 1861, Ronald's father John appears on the census form, aged 81. He is a farmer of 700 acres employing 3 labourers and 1 boy. His wife Mary is listed as aged 63; rather strange, as her age remains the same in 1871! Their children are Marjory (40), Donald (35), Ronald (26), Roderica (22), Catherine (7) and Rondaline (4 mo). We saw her as Donalda on the 1871 census.
Farm servants include John Mcrae (68, shepherd), Norman Mcaskill (38, ploughman), John Macaskill (8, ploughman - age is obviously wrong), Malcolm Mackennon (6, reed rig); Anne Mckinnon (18, housemaid) and Effa Mckinnon (78, diarymaid).
I have been unable to reliably trace him in the censuses for 1851 or 1841.
In 1891, we find Ronald (aged 50) living on private means with his eldest sister, Marjory, then aged 70. As far as I can make out, he does not feature on the 1901 census.
Ronald Macdonald passed away on Taransay on 18 June 1913, aged 81, of supposed old age. No doctor attended his death. He is quoted as being single.
We find him in the 1881 census as a farmer's son on Taransay. Other family members include Mary Macdonald (80), farmer's widow, Kimber. Rodrica (39) is her daughter. Listed alongside the Macdonalds are John Morrison (32), a sheepherd (sic); Mary Macaskill (22, general serv, domestic); Mary Mackay (16, general serv, domestic) and Archibald Macdonald (16), a herdboy. Whether he is related to the family is not mentioned on the census.
A decade earlier, we find the Macdonalds at Paible House, Taransay. Mary (63) is a farmer's wife with her sons Donald (43), Ronald (34), Roderica (28), Catherine Mary (24) and Donalda (20). In addition, we find Mary Morrison (22, born at Ardhasaig), a farm servant; Christy Macaskill (30, born at Berneray), a farm servant; and Johny Morrison (16), born at Kendulavig (near Obbe), a cattle herd.
In 1861, Ronald's father John appears on the census form, aged 81. He is a farmer of 700 acres employing 3 labourers and 1 boy. His wife Mary is listed as aged 63; rather strange, as her age remains the same in 1871! Their children are Marjory (40), Donald (35), Ronald (26), Roderica (22), Catherine (7) and Rondaline (4 mo). We saw her as Donalda on the 1871 census.
Farm servants include John Mcrae (68, shepherd), Norman Mcaskill (38, ploughman), John Macaskill (8, ploughman - age is obviously wrong), Malcolm Mackennon (6, reed rig); Anne Mckinnon (18, housemaid) and Effa Mckinnon (78, diarymaid).
I have been unable to reliably trace him in the censuses for 1851 or 1841.
In 1891, we find Ronald (aged 50) living on private means with his eldest sister, Marjory, then aged 70. As far as I can make out, he does not feature on the 1901 census.
Ronald Macdonald passed away on Taransay on 18 June 1913, aged 81, of supposed old age. No doctor attended his death. He is quoted as being single.
Napier witnesses: Angus Ferguson
Angus Ferguson was one of two witnesses from the island of Taransay, heard at Tarbert. The entry in the 1881 census for him would be the last from anyone from that island, as its population was zero from 1891 onwards.
Angus was a fisherman, aged 48, married to Rachel (born Macleod). He had four children, Mary (20), John (16, also a fisherman), Donald (14) and Ronald (12). The 1871 census specifies his residence as Paible in Taransay.
Twenty years previous, Angus is shown as a farm labourer's son, mother's name being Margaret. He lives at Nigh House with his siblings Rachel (23), Christina (12) and Ranald (14).
The earliest census, 1841, shows Angus as a 12-year old boy with his parents Niel (40) and Margret (36). Angus's siblings are listed as Etty (14), Ranald (6) and Chersty (2).
After leaving Taransay, Angus (60) and his wife Rachel (52) can be located in 1891 in a private house in South Harris, with their children Mary (28) and Donald (23). Donald has two of his children with him, Peggy Thomson (5) shown as having been born in Edinburgh; and Rachel Brindle (2¼).
The 1901 census shows a strange discrepancy in ages, augmenting Angus's age to 78 in a space of ten years since 1891. He is now a former lobster fisherman, in the company of his wife Rachel (68) and sons Donald (33) and Ronald (29). Granddaughter Maggie Thomson (15, whom we saw as Peggy in 1891) is in the house as a wool spinner, born at St Cuthbert, Edinburghshire; Rachel Brindle (12, granddaughter) and Norman Shaw (14, visitor) are also listed.
Angus Ferguson passed away on 22 July 1905 at the age of 78, cause of death not specified; no doctor attended. He died on Taransay.
Angus's wife Rachel survived him by 13 years, passing away in South Harris in 1918 at the age of 90.
Angus was a fisherman, aged 48, married to Rachel (born Macleod). He had four children, Mary (20), John (16, also a fisherman), Donald (14) and Ronald (12). The 1871 census specifies his residence as Paible in Taransay.
Twenty years previous, Angus is shown as a farm labourer's son, mother's name being Margaret. He lives at Nigh House with his siblings Rachel (23), Christina (12) and Ranald (14).
The earliest census, 1841, shows Angus as a 12-year old boy with his parents Niel (40) and Margret (36). Angus's siblings are listed as Etty (14), Ranald (6) and Chersty (2).
After leaving Taransay, Angus (60) and his wife Rachel (52) can be located in 1891 in a private house in South Harris, with their children Mary (28) and Donald (23). Donald has two of his children with him, Peggy Thomson (5) shown as having been born in Edinburgh; and Rachel Brindle (2¼).
The 1901 census shows a strange discrepancy in ages, augmenting Angus's age to 78 in a space of ten years since 1891. He is now a former lobster fisherman, in the company of his wife Rachel (68) and sons Donald (33) and Ronald (29). Granddaughter Maggie Thomson (15, whom we saw as Peggy in 1891) is in the house as a wool spinner, born at St Cuthbert, Edinburghshire; Rachel Brindle (12, granddaughter) and Norman Shaw (14, visitor) are also listed.
Angus Ferguson passed away on 22 July 1905 at the age of 78, cause of death not specified; no doctor attended. He died on Taransay.
Angus's wife Rachel survived him by 13 years, passing away in South Harris in 1918 at the age of 90.
Saturday, 2 April 2011
Napier witnesses: John Mcleod (Tarbert)
John Mcleod can be found at Tarbert in the 1881 census, as a 68-year old merchant, wilks, residing at 19 East Tarbert. He lives with his wife Ann, two years his junior, and their 16-year old niece Ann Macleod.
I am not able to single out with any certainty a John Macleod in Pabbay in the 1841 census. Several are listed, some under the misspelt surname Maclead.
In 1871, John Macleod is in a house at Tarbert, with his wife Ann and a 'stranger' tennant Murdo Macleod and fisherman Donald Macleod. Ann Morrison is there as a housekeeper.
I am not confident about this piece of research; I am not able to trace him by death record either.
I am not able to single out with any certainty a John Macleod in Pabbay in the 1841 census. Several are listed, some under the misspelt surname Maclead.
In 1871, John Macleod is in a house at Tarbert, with his wife Ann and a 'stranger' tennant Murdo Macleod and fisherman Donald Macleod. Ann Morrison is there as a housekeeper.
I am not confident about this piece of research; I am not able to trace him by death record either.
Napier witnesses: Angus Campbell
Angus Campbell, a crofter at Plocropol, can be found in the 1881 census with his wife Margaret, four years his junior. Their son Alex[ande]r (26) is a general merchant. His other children include Chirsty (24), Murdo (22, fisherman), John (19, fisherman), Angus (17), and two daughters named Cathrine (aged 10 and 7).
Ten years before, the family is picked up in the census of 1871, but their ages appear to be 3 or 4 years younger than you would have anticipated. Angus is at that time a crofter and fisherman, still in the Bays area of Harris. I have not been able to locate Angus Campbell with any certainty in the censuses for 1851 or 1841.
EDIT: Direcleit has kindly added the census entry for 1861 in the comments section.
Going forward, the family is still in Plocropol (no 7) in 1891, although Angus (65) is marked as being born in Lewis, Ross-shire. That is an obvious mistake; he remarked in his evidence that he was a young man around Obbe, South Harris. Of the family, we see Alexander (37) at home, but his brothers Murdo, John and Angus are no longer there. Daughters Christy (33), Catherine (23), Christina (20) and Katie (16) do remain at home. A grandson Angus Campbell (3) has appeared on the scene.
Angus Campbell does not appear to feature in the 1901 census. He passed away on 1 August 1909 at Plocropol at the age of 85, having suffered senile decay. He was the widower of Margaret Mcdonald; she predeceased him in 1901. His parents are named as Alexander Campbell and Chirsty Campbell. The death was reported by Angus's grandson, his namesake Angus Campbell.
Ten years before, the family is picked up in the census of 1871, but their ages appear to be 3 or 4 years younger than you would have anticipated. Angus is at that time a crofter and fisherman, still in the Bays area of Harris. I have not been able to locate Angus Campbell with any certainty in the censuses for 1851 or 1841.
EDIT: Direcleit has kindly added the census entry for 1861 in the comments section.
Going forward, the family is still in Plocropol (no 7) in 1891, although Angus (65) is marked as being born in Lewis, Ross-shire. That is an obvious mistake; he remarked in his evidence that he was a young man around Obbe, South Harris. Of the family, we see Alexander (37) at home, but his brothers Murdo, John and Angus are no longer there. Daughters Christy (33), Catherine (23), Christina (20) and Katie (16) do remain at home. A grandson Angus Campbell (3) has appeared on the scene.
Angus Campbell does not appear to feature in the 1901 census. He passed away on 1 August 1909 at Plocropol at the age of 85, having suffered senile decay. He was the widower of Margaret Mcdonald; she predeceased him in 1901. His parents are named as Alexander Campbell and Chirsty Campbell. The death was reported by Angus's grandson, his namesake Angus Campbell.
Friday, 1 April 2011
Ensay & Killegray
Closing the series on islands in the Sound of Harris (Boreray and Pabbay went before), I am now focusing on Killegray and Ensay.
In the census returns from 1841 until 1901, the two islands cannot always be easily distinguished. Killegray only features as a separate enumeration district in 1841. In 1881, '91 and 1901, it is featured as a separate household schedule under enumeration district 1. It should be noted that in 1881 and 1901, this conclusion is only justified when comparing it to the 1891 census, where schedule 2 is clearly marked as Killegray House. The same people are still there in 1901, ten years older, but no longer separately marked. In 1881, it would seem that schedules 2 and 3 both refer to Killegray House; in 1901, this is schedule 2.
In 1841, there are 7 people on Killegray, 40-year old shepherd Kenneth Macrae with a 25-year old Mary Macrae. With them are 4 children under the age of 10. The seventh person is 62-year old Dorothy Ross.
As far as Ensay is concerned, in 1841, 16 people are registered as living there, 11 listed in the same household. The family is mentioned as "McCrac", but I would hazard a guess that being Macrae. Also present is a William McCaskia (Macaskill?), aa Mary Mckenzie and a Mary and Tilla "Maateld". The first names for those listed as "McCrac" were Alex (5), Alexr (20), Margt (25), Mary (15), Christian (20) and Alex (55). A separate family unit of McCrac consists of Christoph (30) and Isabella (25) with daughters Margt and Catherine (6 months). Effy Mccaskill (15) is in the same household.
1851
[1] Kenneth Ferguson (19), brother-in-law and John Mcdonald (18), brother
[2] Christopher Macrae (40, boatbuilder, journeyman) and Bell Macrae (30); with children Peggy (12), Mary (10), John (8), Lexy (5) and Finla (3).
[3] William Macaskill (32, agricultural labourer) and Cathrine (30), with children Cathrine (9), Murdo (6) and Janet (2). These five are also mentioned under household 4, below.
[4] See those mentioned under [3], as well as:
Christy Mcrae (40, dairy maid), Janet Mckinnon (23, house servant), Duncan Mckinnon (20, farm labourer), John Mccleod (20, boatman), Donald Mcrae (19, boatman), John Mckinnon (17, herdboy), Mary Mccleod (16, house servant).
1861
[1] Donald Mccar [Mcrae] (24, Ag Lab), Angus Mccear [Mcrae?] (30, ploughman), Angus Mccuien (57, Ag Lab), Andrew Mcrae (20, Ag Lab), Kristina Mcrae (60, Dairymaid), Margaret McOuish (22, domestic servant)
[2] Christopher Mcrae (56, boatbuilder, born in Kintail, Rossshire) and Isobel (40, born in Lochalsh, Rossshire), with children Mary (19, domestic servant), John (17, Ag Lab), Lexy (15), Finla (13), Donald (11), Agnus [Angus] (8) and grandson John Mcashall [Mcaskill] (3)
1871
[1] Angus Martin (64, shepherd), and Cathrine (40), with children Donald (20, Ag Lab), Kenneth (15), Mary (11), Anne (9), Marion (7), Mary (5) and Johannah (2)
[2, Ensay House] Alexander Mcdougall (62, landoverseer, born at Fortingall, Perthshire), John Mcleod (50, Ag Lab, from Duirinish, Skye), Duncan Mclean (20, Ag Lab), Roderick Mcphee (18, Ag Lab), Morgan Ferguson (30, general servant / domestic) and Marion Ferguson (22, general servant / domestic)
1881
[1, Ensay House] Duncan Mclean (29, farm grieve), Angus Mcleod (24, farm serv), Donald Mcleod (16, farm serv), Christy Mcphee (34, general serv, domestic), Catherine Shaw (44, dairymaid), Marion Mcaskill (25, housemaid),
[2, Kelligray House] Margaret Peterson (18, occupant, dairymaid)
[3] Donald Morrison (30, shepherd) and Mary (32, born in Lochbroom parish, Rossshire) as well as Donald's father Neil (64, shepherd). Donald and Mary's children were: Murdo (3, born in Lochbroom parish, Rossshire) and Neil (1).
1891
[1, Ensay House] Donald Alexander Stewart (35, farmer) and his sister Mary (36), both born at Kilmuir (Skye). Marion Stewart is listed as a 23-year old cook; whether she is related to the previous two is not noted. Domestic staff include Effie Mcdougall (57, housekeeper) and Kate Mckay (19, from Kilmuir, Skye, domestic servant). Farm staff include Marion Mcdonald (20, from North Uist, dairymaid), John Mckenzie (40), Angus Mcleod (32), Donald Mcleod (24), Ewen Mclennan (19) and John Ferguson (46).
[2, Kelligray House] Mary Morrison (39, from Lochbroom, Rossshire, shepherd's wife) and her children Murdo (13), Neil (11), Rachael (9), Charles (7), George (5) and John (2). Christy Mcswen is a 17-year old domestic servant.
1901
[1, Ensay House] William Stewart (48, born in Skye, Captain Mounted Infantry) and his sister Jane Macrae Stewart (50, born in Lochalsh, Rossshire). Jessie Chesholm Scott (42) is marked as a sister, but it is not clear whose sister she was. John Mckenzie (53, farm servant), Donald Mcleod (36, farm servant), Charles Morrison (18, farm servant), Alexandrina Rae (23, domestic house maid), Rachael Morrison (19, dairy maid).
[2, Shephard's House, Killegray] Donald Morrison (50, shepherd) and Mary (50), with their children George (16), John (13) and Simon (10). John Mckinnon is a 16-year old school teacher, boarding with the Morrisons.
I would like to once more applaud my fellow researcher Direcleit for accumulating a wealth of further information on these islands - this link refers to his entries regarding Ensay.
In the census returns from 1841 until 1901, the two islands cannot always be easily distinguished. Killegray only features as a separate enumeration district in 1841. In 1881, '91 and 1901, it is featured as a separate household schedule under enumeration district 1. It should be noted that in 1881 and 1901, this conclusion is only justified when comparing it to the 1891 census, where schedule 2 is clearly marked as Killegray House. The same people are still there in 1901, ten years older, but no longer separately marked. In 1881, it would seem that schedules 2 and 3 both refer to Killegray House; in 1901, this is schedule 2.
In 1841, there are 7 people on Killegray, 40-year old shepherd Kenneth Macrae with a 25-year old Mary Macrae. With them are 4 children under the age of 10. The seventh person is 62-year old Dorothy Ross.
As far as Ensay is concerned, in 1841, 16 people are registered as living there, 11 listed in the same household. The family is mentioned as "McCrac", but I would hazard a guess that being Macrae. Also present is a William McCaskia (Macaskill?), aa Mary Mckenzie and a Mary and Tilla "Maateld". The first names for those listed as "McCrac" were Alex (5), Alexr (20), Margt (25), Mary (15), Christian (20) and Alex (55). A separate family unit of McCrac consists of Christoph (30) and Isabella (25) with daughters Margt and Catherine (6 months). Effy Mccaskill (15) is in the same household.
1851
[1] Kenneth Ferguson (19), brother-in-law and John Mcdonald (18), brother
[2] Christopher Macrae (40, boatbuilder, journeyman) and Bell Macrae (30); with children Peggy (12), Mary (10), John (8), Lexy (5) and Finla (3).
[3] William Macaskill (32, agricultural labourer) and Cathrine (30), with children Cathrine (9), Murdo (6) and Janet (2). These five are also mentioned under household 4, below.
[4] See those mentioned under [3], as well as:
Christy Mcrae (40, dairy maid), Janet Mckinnon (23, house servant), Duncan Mckinnon (20, farm labourer), John Mccleod (20, boatman), Donald Mcrae (19, boatman), John Mckinnon (17, herdboy), Mary Mccleod (16, house servant).
1861
[1] Donald Mccar [Mcrae] (24, Ag Lab), Angus Mccear [Mcrae?] (30, ploughman), Angus Mccuien (57, Ag Lab), Andrew Mcrae (20, Ag Lab), Kristina Mcrae (60, Dairymaid), Margaret McOuish (22, domestic servant)
[2] Christopher Mcrae (56, boatbuilder, born in Kintail, Rossshire) and Isobel (40, born in Lochalsh, Rossshire), with children Mary (19, domestic servant), John (17, Ag Lab), Lexy (15), Finla (13), Donald (11), Agnus [Angus] (8) and grandson John Mcashall [Mcaskill] (3)
1871
[1] Angus Martin (64, shepherd), and Cathrine (40), with children Donald (20, Ag Lab), Kenneth (15), Mary (11), Anne (9), Marion (7), Mary (5) and Johannah (2)
[2, Ensay House] Alexander Mcdougall (62, landoverseer, born at Fortingall, Perthshire), John Mcleod (50, Ag Lab, from Duirinish, Skye), Duncan Mclean (20, Ag Lab), Roderick Mcphee (18, Ag Lab), Morgan Ferguson (30, general servant / domestic) and Marion Ferguson (22, general servant / domestic)
1881
[1, Ensay House] Duncan Mclean (29, farm grieve), Angus Mcleod (24, farm serv), Donald Mcleod (16, farm serv), Christy Mcphee (34, general serv, domestic), Catherine Shaw (44, dairymaid), Marion Mcaskill (25, housemaid),
[2, Kelligray House] Margaret Peterson (18, occupant, dairymaid)
[3] Donald Morrison (30, shepherd) and Mary (32, born in Lochbroom parish, Rossshire) as well as Donald's father Neil (64, shepherd). Donald and Mary's children were: Murdo (3, born in Lochbroom parish, Rossshire) and Neil (1).
1891
[1, Ensay House] Donald Alexander Stewart (35, farmer) and his sister Mary (36), both born at Kilmuir (Skye). Marion Stewart is listed as a 23-year old cook; whether she is related to the previous two is not noted. Domestic staff include Effie Mcdougall (57, housekeeper) and Kate Mckay (19, from Kilmuir, Skye, domestic servant). Farm staff include Marion Mcdonald (20, from North Uist, dairymaid), John Mckenzie (40), Angus Mcleod (32), Donald Mcleod (24), Ewen Mclennan (19) and John Ferguson (46).
[2, Kelligray House] Mary Morrison (39, from Lochbroom, Rossshire, shepherd's wife) and her children Murdo (13), Neil (11), Rachael (9), Charles (7), George (5) and John (2). Christy Mcswen is a 17-year old domestic servant.
1901
[1, Ensay House] William Stewart (48, born in Skye, Captain Mounted Infantry) and his sister Jane Macrae Stewart (50, born in Lochalsh, Rossshire). Jessie Chesholm Scott (42) is marked as a sister, but it is not clear whose sister she was. John Mckenzie (53, farm servant), Donald Mcleod (36, farm servant), Charles Morrison (18, farm servant), Alexandrina Rae (23, domestic house maid), Rachael Morrison (19, dairy maid).
[2, Shephard's House, Killegray] Donald Morrison (50, shepherd) and Mary (50), with their children George (16), John (13) and Simon (10). John Mckinnon is a 16-year old school teacher, boarding with the Morrisons.
I would like to once more applaud my fellow researcher Direcleit for accumulating a wealth of further information on these islands - this link refers to his entries regarding Ensay.
Thursday, 31 March 2011
Napier witnesses: Rev Roderick Mackenzie
Rev Roderick Mackenzie was the Free Church minister at Tarbert, Harris at the time of the Napier Commission's visit. His place of birth is quoted as Assynt, Sutherland. Including himself, the minister's household comprises of 12 people in 1881. At that time, he was aged 43.
His wife Marjory, aged 40, came from Kilmallie, Argyll. Her mother's name was Jessie Martin (66), who is living with her daughter. Roderick and Marjory have five children, Hugh (10), Alexander M (8), Mackintosh M (6), Martin D (4) and Annabella (2). Marjory's sister Mary (41) lives with the family and works as a governess. Other members of the household include cook Helen Macaskill (23), Peggy Morison (17), a nurse and Margaret Macleod, a 23-year old dairy-maid.
By 1891, the Rev Mackenzie has moved to the Scottish mainland and is a Free Church minister living in Fodderty, a village between Dingwall and Strathpeffer in Easter Ross. By that time, his children (left at home) are Annabella (12), Nicol Martin (9) and Boyce (5). Roderick's wife Marjory and her sister Mary N (now an annuitant) are still there, as is their mother Jessie (77).
Ten years later, the Mackenzies are still at Fodderty, with Roderick (63), Marjory (60), Mary (61) as well as offspring Annabella (22) and Boyce (15).
Roderick Mackenzie died in hospital in Dingwall on 22 October 1909 at the age of 72. The first names of his parents are not recorded on the death certificate.
An appreciation of his time at Maryburgh can be found at the top of this page from the Ferintosh Parish Church website.
In the 1871 census, Roderick Mackenzie is visiting Woodbank, Snizort in the Isle of Skye. His occupation is quoted as Freechurch Men Tarbet. This is the earliest reference I am able to find of him.
His wife Marjory, aged 40, came from Kilmallie, Argyll. Her mother's name was Jessie Martin (66), who is living with her daughter. Roderick and Marjory have five children, Hugh (10), Alexander M (8), Mackintosh M (6), Martin D (4) and Annabella (2). Marjory's sister Mary (41) lives with the family and works as a governess. Other members of the household include cook Helen Macaskill (23), Peggy Morison (17), a nurse and Margaret Macleod, a 23-year old dairy-maid.
By 1891, the Rev Mackenzie has moved to the Scottish mainland and is a Free Church minister living in Fodderty, a village between Dingwall and Strathpeffer in Easter Ross. By that time, his children (left at home) are Annabella (12), Nicol Martin (9) and Boyce (5). Roderick's wife Marjory and her sister Mary N (now an annuitant) are still there, as is their mother Jessie (77).
Ten years later, the Mackenzies are still at Fodderty, with Roderick (63), Marjory (60), Mary (61) as well as offspring Annabella (22) and Boyce (15).
Roderick Mackenzie died in hospital in Dingwall on 22 October 1909 at the age of 72. The first names of his parents are not recorded on the death certificate.
An appreciation of his time at Maryburgh can be found at the top of this page from the Ferintosh Parish Church website.
In the 1871 census, Roderick Mackenzie is visiting Woodbank, Snizort in the Isle of Skye. His occupation is quoted as Freechurch Men Tarbet. This is the earliest reference I am able to find of him.
Pabbay - 1841
Pabbay is located on the left of this map
This is a transcript of part of the census return for the island of Pabbay, Harris, for 1841.
Please do not confuse this Pabbay with the island off Broadford, Isle of Skye, which is under the parish of Strath. There is also a Pabay Mor off the coast of Uig, Isle of Lewis, and another Pabbay can be found among the Bishops Isles south of Barra.
The population of Pabbay was cleared in 1846 to make way for sheep. Further information can be found on this excellent page of the Papar project.
Registered on Pabbay in 1841
Nora Mcleod 30 Ag Lab [agricultural labourer]
Cathrine Mcleod 30
Hord Mcleod 12
Finla Mcleod 10
Niel Mcleod 7
Anne Mcleod 4
Margt Mcleod 70
John Morison 40 Ag Lab
Mary Morison 40 Ag Lab
Janet Morison 15
Anne Morison 15
Murdh Morison 13
Donald Morison 10
Effy Morison 8
John Morison 5
William Morison 2
Rodh Mcleod 30 Ag Lab
John Mckay 13
Nord Mccaskill 40 Ag Lab
Rachel Mccaskill 25
Christy Mccaskill 10
Cathrine Mccaskill 2
John Mcleod 30 Ag Lab
Margt Mcleod 20
Anne Mcleod 3 MO
Donald Mclean 60 Ag Lab
EDIT: Inserted the words part of in first sentence of this post, to reflect information as suggested by Direcleit in comment below.
Napier witnesses: Murdo Morrison
Murdo Morrison is shown as a 50-year old crofter at 46 Kyles Scalpay in the 1881 census. He is shown as married to Lexy. John is their 1-year old son. Dolina Morrison (not certain if she is related) is a 21-year old servant. William Macleod is visiting, he is a fisherman.
Twenty years before, we find a Murdo Morrison as a 32-year old tenant's son in Scalpa (Harris), son of Hector (63) and Margaret Morrison (62). His siblings were Ewen (26) and Mary (28). It is not useful to go back too far in the censuses, when looking for this man. Murdo Morrison clearly states in his evidence that the original people of Kyles Scalpay were cleared from their township, and replaced by those removed from Pabbay and Berneray.
A census record from 1841 shows the population of Pabbay, Harris. It includes a Murdh Morrison, aged 13. His parents, both aged 40, are John and Mary, who have 7 children: Janet and Anne (15), Donald (10), Effy (8), John (5) and William (2) in addition to "Murdh".
I have been unable to locate Murdo's death certificate with any degree of certainty.
Twenty years before, we find a Murdo Morrison as a 32-year old tenant's son in Scalpa (Harris), son of Hector (63) and Margaret Morrison (62). His siblings were Ewen (26) and Mary (28). It is not useful to go back too far in the censuses, when looking for this man. Murdo Morrison clearly states in his evidence that the original people of Kyles Scalpay were cleared from their township, and replaced by those removed from Pabbay and Berneray.
A census record from 1841 shows the population of Pabbay, Harris. It includes a Murdh Morrison, aged 13. His parents, both aged 40, are John and Mary, who have 7 children: Janet and Anne (15), Donald (10), Effy (8), John (5) and William (2) in addition to "Murdh".
I have been unable to locate Murdo's death certificate with any degree of certainty.
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Napier witnesses: John Mcdiarmid
John Mcdiarmid is 88 when he appears in front of Lord Napier in June 1883. Tracing someone with a surname like "Mcdiarmid" presents a few challenges. There are quite a few possible permutations in the spelling of that name, certainly on the census forms. What this piece of research also showed was the inconsistency in ages. Are the death certificates any more reliable than the census forms?
However, reading the evidence yields a few clues, the most important one being that he spent a great deal of his lifetime around "Strain" (Strond?) in South Harris, and the census of 1841 does pick him up there.
In 1841, John Mcdearmid is in Strond, Harris, aged 40. He lives with his wife Mary (35), who we will next encounter 40 years later. Their family consists of Marrion (20), Donald (15), Marrion (10), Christina (8), Mary (5) and Ann (2).
In 1871, a John Mcdermid is quoted as a lodger in Strond, aged 70, living with a family of Shaws. I have my doubts about the 1871 census entry, because he is shown as being retired, but not living with his wife. One of the death certificates for a John Macdermid in Harris shows a widower who passed away in Strond on 6 January 1885, which bears out my suspicions. We can therefore discount this entry.
A decade later, just before he gives evidence to the Napier Commission, John Mcdearmid is once more shown with his wife Mary in Island of Scalpay, as a retired missionary.
Direcleit has filled in the gaps of other census years, see his comment below.
John Macdermid passed away on 5 May 1884 at the age of 88, having suffered for hemiplegia for one month, and cerebral softening for 2 years. He is listed as being the wife of Mary Ferguson, and his parents were Angus Macdermid and Mary Macleod. His death was reported to the registrar by his son Donald.
However, reading the evidence yields a few clues, the most important one being that he spent a great deal of his lifetime around "Strain" (Strond?) in South Harris, and the census of 1841 does pick him up there.
In 1841, John Mcdearmid is in Strond, Harris, aged 40. He lives with his wife Mary (35), who we will next encounter 40 years later. Their family consists of Marrion (20), Donald (15), Marrion (10), Christina (8), Mary (5) and Ann (2).
In 1871, a John Mcdermid is quoted as a lodger in Strond, aged 70, living with a family of Shaws. I have my doubts about the 1871 census entry, because he is shown as being retired, but not living with his wife. One of the death certificates for a John Macdermid in Harris shows a widower who passed away in Strond on 6 January 1885, which bears out my suspicions. We can therefore discount this entry.
A decade later, just before he gives evidence to the Napier Commission, John Mcdearmid is once more shown with his wife Mary in Island of Scalpay, as a retired missionary.
Direcleit has filled in the gaps of other census years, see his comment below.
John Macdermid passed away on 5 May 1884 at the age of 88, having suffered for hemiplegia for one month, and cerebral softening for 2 years. He is listed as being the wife of Mary Ferguson, and his parents were Angus Macdermid and Mary Macleod. His death was reported to the registrar by his son Donald.
Napier witnesses: John Mcleod
John Mcleod was a fisherman at Ardhasaig at the time he was interviewed by Lord Napier in Tarbert. We find him in the 1881 census at 77 Ardhasaig, aged 62 by then. He is married to Christina (58), a wool weaver. Four adult children are mentioned at the same address, namely two sons who are seamen: Murdo (34) and John (32); and two daughters, both general servants: Christina (22) and Maggy (24).
EDIT: Thanks to Direcleit for filling in the gaps before and after 1881:
1871 and the family were in Ardhasaig, John, Murdo & Donald were Fishermen whilst Christy was a Weaveress. Daughters Christy, 11 (Scholar)and Mary ,2 (Servant!) are there too.
An 1861 family in Ardhasaig, comprising John & Chirsty with children Murdoch, John, Duncan, Donald and Chirsty Ann appears to be them.
In 1851, John had been a Road Labourer in Ardhasaig and the boys Murdoch,5, John,2 & Duncan, 6 months, are shown.
Following the Napier commission in 1883, we find John in 1891 as a Retired fisherman at No 6 Ardhasaig together with Christy who is now a Weaveress (Tweed)whilst daughter Christy A is a Wool Spinner.
John Mcleod passed away on 27 September 1903 at the age of 85, having suffered from gangrene of the lungs for 14 days. The names of his parents are given as John Mcleod and Chirsty Macaskill. John's own wife Christy is mentioned as being deceased at the time of his own death.
EDIT: Thanks to Direcleit for filling in the gaps before and after 1881:
1871 and the family were in Ardhasaig, John, Murdo & Donald were Fishermen whilst Christy was a Weaveress. Daughters Christy, 11 (Scholar)and Mary ,2 (Servant!) are there too.
An 1861 family in Ardhasaig, comprising John & Chirsty with children Murdoch, John, Duncan, Donald and Chirsty Ann appears to be them.
In 1851, John had been a Road Labourer in Ardhasaig and the boys Murdoch,5, John,2 & Duncan, 6 months, are shown.
Following the Napier commission in 1883, we find John in 1891 as a Retired fisherman at No 6 Ardhasaig together with Christy who is now a Weaveress (Tweed)whilst daughter Christy A is a Wool Spinner.
John Mcleod passed away on 27 September 1903 at the age of 85, having suffered from gangrene of the lungs for 14 days. The names of his parents are given as John Mcleod and Chirsty Macaskill. John's own wife Christy is mentioned as being deceased at the time of his own death.
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
Derisgil and Luachair
Two very outlandish names to start a blogpost with, and the fact that these were townships, situated on the shores of Loch Resort will probably not surprise you. Neither are inhabited today. At the time of the 1891 census, they definitely were. Derisgil had 19 residents, Luachair 24.
The RCAHMS Canmore record for Luachair describes: A farmstead comprising two unroofed buildings and four enclosures is depicted on the 1st edition of the OS 6-inch map (Inverness-shire, Isle of Harris 1881, sheet iii). Two unroofed buildings, two enclosures and a sheepfold are shown on the current edition of the OS 1:10000 map (1973).
The RCAHMS Canmore record for Derisgal describes A small township comprising seven unroofed buildings, one of which is a long building, and two enclosures is depicted on the 1st edition of the OS 6-inch map (Inverness-shire, Isle of Harris 1881, sheet iii). Five unroofed buildings are shown on the current edition of the OS 1:10000 map (1972).
In 1891 we find the following people on the southern shores of Loch Resort:
No 1 Derisgil
Ann Maclennan (48), crofter's wife
Murdo Maclennan (16), son of Ann Maclennan, farm labourer
John Maclennan (15), son of Ann Maclennan, farm labourer
Mary A Maclennan (12), daughter of Ann Maclennan
Donald J Maclennan (5), son of Ann Maclennan
No 2
Norman Macdonald (57), crofter, married to Nora (Flora)
Nora Macdonald (57), wife of Norman, wool carder
Salivia Macdonald (22), daughter, weaveress
Norman Macdonald (19), son, farm labourer
Marson Macdonald (16), daughter, general servant domestic
Ann Macinnes (59), boarder, weaveress & wool carder
No 3
Flora Macdonald (36), wife of Norman, web maker
Her children were: Angus (9), Donald J (7), Margret (4), Murdo (3), Mary (4 months)
John Macdonald (88), retired fisherman
Mary Macdonald (40), general servant domestic
John Macdonald (15), farm labourer
No 1 Luachair
Ann Macleod (52), gamekeeper's wife
Her children were: Malcolm (14), John (11), Finlay and Roderick (both aged 9, twins?) and Janet (6)
Catherine Macdonald (49), general servant domestic, from Lewis.
No 2
John Macaskill (42), crofter, married to Mary
Mary Macaskill (39), wool carder, married to John
Their children were: Mary (16), general servant domestic; Chirsty (14), Angus (10), Ann (8), Malcolm (6), Dolina (4) and Norman (9 months).
No 3
Finlay Macdonald (42), fisherman, married to Margret
Margret Macdonald (40), wool carder and spinner, married to Finlay
Their children were Annie (12), Hattie (10), Donald J (8), Hattie (4) and Marion (2)
Mary A Macdonald (30), general servant domestic (from Lewis)
Napier witnesses: Norman Macdonald
Norman Macdonald was heard at Tarbert on 13 June 1883. He is quoted as being a 50-year old crofter from the island of Scarp, which lies just off the northwest coast of Harris. Unfortunately, none of the 19th century censuses for Scotland mention anyone as being specifically from this island. It appears to be grouped under North Harris. Looking for a nearby township on mainland Harris, Govig, shows this to be included in enumeration district 6.
Only the 1901 census gives a break-down of the population of Scarp (172 people), and thus we can locate a Norman Macdonald who appears to match the description of the witness giving evidence to Lord Napier's Commission 18 years before. For reference, Scarp is listed as enumeration district 7 under registration district 111/1, with 200 residents.
He is listed as a cottar at 3 Scarp, aged 72. Norman is married to Ann, aged 60 in 1901, with four children: two sons who are fishermen: Kenneth, (25) and Donald John (22); and two daughters, both marked as scrot [domestic] Mary (19) and Marion (17).
Working back with this information, we do find Norman in the 1881 census as a fisherman, married to Ann (aged 39), with children Angus (8), Kenneth (7), Donald John (4) and Mary, 3 months.
By 1891, Norman is marked as a retired fisherman, aged 56. A new addition to the family is Marion, aged 7.
From his death certificate, we find confirmation that Norman Macdonald, a fisherman from Scarp, was married to Ann Macdonald MS Macinnes. His parents are named as Donald and Margaret Macdonald. Norman passed away on 21 August 1903 at the age of 74. The cause of his death is listed as rheumatism and valvular disease of the heart.
EDIT: Inclusion of additional census information from 1881, as per suggestion from Direcleit in comment below.
Only the 1901 census gives a break-down of the population of Scarp (172 people), and thus we can locate a Norman Macdonald who appears to match the description of the witness giving evidence to Lord Napier's Commission 18 years before. For reference, Scarp is listed as enumeration district 7 under registration district 111/1, with 200 residents.
He is listed as a cottar at 3 Scarp, aged 72. Norman is married to Ann, aged 60 in 1901, with four children: two sons who are fishermen: Kenneth, (25) and Donald John (22); and two daughters, both marked as scrot [domestic] Mary (19) and Marion (17).
Working back with this information, we do find Norman in the 1881 census as a fisherman, married to Ann (aged 39), with children Angus (8), Kenneth (7), Donald John (4) and Mary, 3 months.
By 1891, Norman is marked as a retired fisherman, aged 56. A new addition to the family is Marion, aged 7.
From his death certificate, we find confirmation that Norman Macdonald, a fisherman from Scarp, was married to Ann Macdonald MS Macinnes. His parents are named as Donald and Margaret Macdonald. Norman passed away on 21 August 1903 at the age of 74. The cause of his death is listed as rheumatism and valvular disease of the heart.
EDIT: Inclusion of additional census information from 1881, as per suggestion from Direcleit in comment below.
Monday, 28 March 2011
Napier witnesses: Duncan Morrison
Duncan Morrison made a brief appearance in front of the Napier Commission. He was a 73-year old tailor from Finsbay, South Harris. In 1881 he is shown as living with his wife Christina, a few years his junior, and children Margaret (37), Christina (33), John (27, a Royal Naval Reservist), and Isabella (25). We also find three grand children, Marion Mclennan (11), John Mcdonald (7), Alexr Mckenzie (5) and Ann Mckenzie (3).
Going back through the decades, we also find Catherin and Margret as an additional children to Duncan and Christina. By 1851, Duncan can be found at Quidinish, as a farmer of 7 acres employing no labourers. His account to Lord Napier mentions being cleared out of that township to go to Finsbay, which must have happened between 1851 and 1861. Although Duncan has three daughters, he only says to be supported by his son (whom we know to be John) who is in the RNR in Stornoway, borne out by the 1881 census data.
In 1891, we meet Duncan for the last time, now at Strumore in South Harris. This is now shown on the map only as a sheepwash (grid ref NG 093869), along an inlet marked as Sruth Mor, just east of Quidinish.
Going back through the decades, we also find Catherin and Margret as an additional children to Duncan and Christina. By 1851, Duncan can be found at Quidinish, as a farmer of 7 acres employing no labourers. His account to Lord Napier mentions being cleared out of that township to go to Finsbay, which must have happened between 1851 and 1861. Although Duncan has three daughters, he only says to be supported by his son (whom we know to be John) who is in the RNR in Stornoway, borne out by the 1881 census data.
In 1891, we meet Duncan for the last time, now at Strumore in South Harris. This is now shown on the map only as a sheepwash (grid ref NG 093869), along an inlet marked as Sruth Mor, just east of Quidinish.
Napier witnesses: Thomas Brydone
Thomas Brydone had been in the job of factor for Lord Dunmore for only six months (i.e. since late 1882) when he was questioned by Lord Napier and his Royal Commission. I once more refer to Direcleit for an appreciation of his work in Harris, which appears to have lasted from 1882 until 1891-1897. It requires us therefore to look to censes after 1881 to get an idea of Mr Brydone's family history.
In 1891, we find him as factor and farmer at Farmhouse Luskentyre, with the town mentioned as Leachilce. This sounds to me like a corruption of Leac-a-Li, which is a township on the eastern side of Harris. Thomas Brydone is quoted as being born at Dunblane, Perthshire and married to Isabella, a few years his junior. The Brydones have five children in 1891, James (8), Archibald (6), Thomas (4), Isabella (2) and Alexander (10 months). Christina Macleod and Catherine Macleod are listed as domestic and farm helpers.
Upon tracing Thomas Brydone back through the years, we locate him in 1881 at Stewartston or Easter Invervack near Blair Atholl in Perthshire, as a farmer of 300 acres, of which 72 arable, employing 1 man. He lives with his grandmother Margaret and siblings Mary (23), Maggie (21) and David (19). Two Irishman are lodging with the Brydone family at Blair Atholl, Hugh and Alex Brodie, listed as hawkers, or peddlers. Travelling salesmen in today's parlance.
In 1871, Thomas is employed as a 15-year old shepherd at Calvine, near Blair Atholl. He lives with his parents James and Jean as well as five younger siblings, Mary, Margaret, Jane and Angus. Thomas is first mentioned in 1861, when he is a 5-year old scholar in Dunblane.
Thomas Brydone returned to his native Perthshire by the time of the 1901 census, when we see him at Garbruich, near Blair Atholl, in the company of their 4 younger children: Alexander (10), Jeannie (4), Isabella (2, should read 12) and Maggie (1). He died of myocardial degeneration on 4 November 1931, aged 76. He last lived at Pitlochry.
In 1891, we find him as factor and farmer at Farmhouse Luskentyre, with the town mentioned as Leachilce. This sounds to me like a corruption of Leac-a-Li, which is a township on the eastern side of Harris. Thomas Brydone is quoted as being born at Dunblane, Perthshire and married to Isabella, a few years his junior. The Brydones have five children in 1891, James (8), Archibald (6), Thomas (4), Isabella (2) and Alexander (10 months). Christina Macleod and Catherine Macleod are listed as domestic and farm helpers.
Upon tracing Thomas Brydone back through the years, we locate him in 1881 at Stewartston or Easter Invervack near Blair Atholl in Perthshire, as a farmer of 300 acres, of which 72 arable, employing 1 man. He lives with his grandmother Margaret and siblings Mary (23), Maggie (21) and David (19). Two Irishman are lodging with the Brydone family at Blair Atholl, Hugh and Alex Brodie, listed as hawkers, or peddlers. Travelling salesmen in today's parlance.
In 1871, Thomas is employed as a 15-year old shepherd at Calvine, near Blair Atholl. He lives with his parents James and Jean as well as five younger siblings, Mary, Margaret, Jane and Angus. Thomas is first mentioned in 1861, when he is a 5-year old scholar in Dunblane.
Thomas Brydone returned to his native Perthshire by the time of the 1901 census, when we see him at Garbruich, near Blair Atholl, in the company of their 4 younger children: Alexander (10), Jeannie (4), Isabella (2, should read 12) and Maggie (1). He died of myocardial degeneration on 4 November 1931, aged 76. He last lived at Pitlochry.
Napier witnesses: Kenneth Macdonald
Kenneth Macdonald was farmer at Scarista, and according to this article by Direcleit, had relinquished the factorship over South Harris by 1883. The fact that Kenneth was born in Applecross helped me to trace him on the census records. Kenneth Macdonald's wife is named as Mary Macrae by Direcleit, but the 1881 census record names her as Jane. The census transcript on Ancestry quotes Kenneth's occupation as "Farmer & Factor No Of Acres Unknown Employing".
In 1881, we find Kenneth, aged 64, with his much younger wife Jane, aged 36, at Big Borve. They have 3 three children, Emilie P S (4), Alexander (2) and John (9 months). Kenneth's sister Catherine (50) is there, together with a handful of farm- and house servants: John Mckinnon, William Campbell, Marion Mckinnon, Marion MacCuspaiz [Maccusbic?] and Mary Mckinnon. A decade earlier, Kenneth is shown in the company of Rebecca Macrae, his sister-in-law, but his wife Margaret [edited] does not appear on any of the census returns. He is only apparent in Harris from 1861 onwards. Kenneth's last mention on the census for South Harris is in 1891, when he is shown as a farmer at Hamlets Scaristavore, with his wife Jane and sons Alister (= Alexander), aged 12, Jan (John) aged 11 and Kenneth (9).
In 1871, Kenneth is listed with his sister-in-law Rebecca Macrae as a farmer in Harris. In 1861, the census records him as a sheepfarmer employing six labourers at Big Borve, with 4 of his servants in the house.
On 22 May 1891, only a few weeks after the census was taken, Kenneth passed away after suffering from broncho-pneumonia for six days. He was aged 80. His parents are mentioned as John Macdonald, a tailor, and Isabella Macdonald MS Macleod. His death was registered by his widow, Jane Margaret Macaulay Mackenzie.
EDIT: Added information from 1871 and 1861 censuses, and this link to his evidence at Tarbert.
In 1881, we find Kenneth, aged 64, with his much younger wife Jane, aged 36, at Big Borve. They have 3 three children, Emilie P S (4), Alexander (2) and John (9 months). Kenneth's sister Catherine (50) is there, together with a handful of farm- and house servants: John Mckinnon, William Campbell, Marion Mckinnon, Marion MacCuspaiz [Maccusbic?] and Mary Mckinnon. A decade earlier, Kenneth is shown in the company of Rebecca Macrae, his sister-in-law, but his wife Margaret [edited] does not appear on any of the census returns. He is only apparent in Harris from 1861 onwards. Kenneth's last mention on the census for South Harris is in 1891, when he is shown as a farmer at Hamlets Scaristavore, with his wife Jane and sons Alister (= Alexander), aged 12, Jan (John) aged 11 and Kenneth (9).
In 1871, Kenneth is listed with his sister-in-law Rebecca Macrae as a farmer in Harris. In 1861, the census records him as a sheepfarmer employing six labourers at Big Borve, with 4 of his servants in the house.
On 22 May 1891, only a few weeks after the census was taken, Kenneth passed away after suffering from broncho-pneumonia for six days. He was aged 80. His parents are mentioned as John Macdonald, a tailor, and Isabella Macdonald MS Macleod. His death was registered by his widow, Jane Margaret Macaulay Mackenzie.
EDIT: Added information from 1871 and 1861 censuses, and this link to his evidence at Tarbert.
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