1953 Coronation

“Tiree’s Coronation [of Queen Elizabeth II] celebrations began on May 28 [1953] with the Local Mod, for which one of the three Coronation Holidays was used, and with such a good start, the advent of cold weather did not prevent the subsequent programme of events planned by the Coronation Committee from being carried through.

“At the closing of the schools on Friday, there was held in each case an appropriate ceremony at which the souvenir mugs, pencils and Lord’s Day Observance booklets were handed over to the pupils as gifts from Argyll Education Committee. In Ruaig and Scarinish Schools, Rev. D. Lamont conducted a short service, and in Balemartin and Hillipol Schools Col. the Rev. K. Scott-Ross similarly impressed on the minds of the children the importance of the occasion.

“In Cornaigmore J. S. School, the Headmaster [Allan MacDougall] read appropriate short passages from Scripture to point out the significance of the Great Day, and after the singing of praise in both Gaelic and English, he called on Mr. M. M. MacLean, County Councillor, who was accompanied by Mr. A. H. MacPhail, District Clerk, to hand over the attractive gift souvenirs to all the pupils. On resuming work in school on Wednesday, a short silence of dedication and prayer was observed at the beginning of the customary weekly religious assembly of all pupils and staff.

“Coronation Day itself found many of the island houses gaily beflagged, and in the afternoon, despite the cold winds, all roads led to Scarinish for the Gala sports. Events of all kinds with five-a-side football for the youths were carried through, and in the evening a stirring tussle between a local team and one from Messrs. Watson, the contractor at present operating in Tiree [building the Beinn Ghot radar station], ended in a draw of two goals each.

“Local bus and taxi hirers assisted by the large Watson bus put at the disposal of the committee, as were so many other amenities and contributions to the success of the day by this friendly firm, conveyed the public to the field and to the hall where a willing group organised by the Woman’s Guild saw that tea was available for all.

“At dusk crowds gathered at the top of the Ben where the bonfire was lit, and to the music of the pipes and the brilliance of the fireworks there was open air dancing. On Wednesday evening, the celebrations were concluded with a Grand Gala Dance in the Scarinish Hall to music by Downie’s Accordion Band. The bitter wind prevented a few of the older folk from coming out to join in the fun but the island took its full share in the national rejoicing and in toasting the lovely Queen just crowned — Guidheadh ar Cridh ‘s ar Beoil, Gras Dhè an Ban-Righ.”

(Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 13 June 1953, p. 8)

1999.113.19

Bonfire to celebrate another coronation, that of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in May 1937.

As ever, your thoughts and memories are always welcome.

Dr John Holliday

THE TIREE COTTAR CASE

A case was tried in Oban Sheriff Court on 15 November 1889 pitting the Duke of Argyll against the cottar Charles MacLean, who had built a small house on the Heanish common grazing without permission. MacLean claimed that he was entitled to build the house because he was a fisherman. He lost. But the details of the case throw up some intruiging points of law, and provide a new perspective on emigration. The case also shines a light on what it was like to be poor in 1889, as you tried to fight against one of the largest landowners in Scotland.

‘This is an action to have the defender removed from a hut [small house] which he had erected without the [Duke’s] consent on part of the common of Heanish near the shore. The defence is that the right to erect this hut is conferred by [the White Herring Fisheries Act of 1771] which is still in force [it was repealed in 2009], and enacts for the encouragement of the White Herring Fishery that, “all and every person or persons employed in the said fisheries may fish in any part of the British seas, and shall have, and exercise, the free use of all ports, harbours, shores, and forelands, in Great Britain or islands belonging to the Crown of Great Britain, below the highest water mark, and for the space of one hundred yards [inland], of any waste or uncultivated lands … for landing their nets, casks, and other materials, utensils and stores, and for erecting tents, huts and stages, and for the landing, pickling, curing and reloading their fish, and in drying their nets without paying any foreland or other dues or any other sum or sums of money or other consideration whatsoever for such liberty.” [This law presumably allowed fishermen from Aberdeen to set up a fishing station at The Green in Kilmoluaig without the need for permission from the estate.]

‘ln order to succeed in this defence, it was necessary that the defender should prove that he is a person employed in the fisheries referred to in the Act, and also that the hut is erected, and used for purposes connected with the said fisheries; and further that the ground on which it is built is waste or uncultivated.

‘[Charles MacLean] is about seventy years of age. [He is likely to have been born in 1819 in Scarinish. His father was Hector and mother Christina.] He went to Australia forty years ago when he was thirty. He was there engaged first at farm work and then at the diggings. After that he was engaged with a surveying party, and afterwards he was one of the crew of a schooner. He was about twenty-four years in Australia, and on his return to Tiree he rented a house from the [Duke] at Heanish, in which he lived for three months, and then went back to Australia. He was there for about eighteen months, and again returned to Heanish and applied for the house he had formerly there. In about a year he got it, staying in the meantime with a widowed sister at Scarinish. He remained in that house until last Whitsunday, when he gave it up of his own accord, and because he could not afford to pay the rent, as is shewn by his letter which is produced. Another cottage was then offered to him at a rent of £1, which he refused, and in May last built the hut referred to, and went to live in it with his wife and family. It was their sole residence for the next three months, and at last his wife got into bad health, and he had to remove with his family to Scarinish, where he now lives in lodgings, but he occupies the hut as a store. From this history, it will be seen that the defender’s real object in building this hut was not that it might be used solely for the purpose of, and in connection with, the fishery as contemplated by the Act, but that he might live in it rent free as a squatter on the [Duke’s] lands. He has a boat, and does occasionally fish, and has cured and sold fish, as is the case with most of the inhabitants living near the shore in Tiree; but he does not live by his fishing or prosecute it in any systematic way … He had no herring nets till about six months ago. His boat was not registered until [the case was about to start], and the first time he went to fish for herring was about eight days before the [case started], when he went out with the witnesses John Sinclair and Donald MacKinnon to a place where he had never seen herring fished for or nets set before, and, as was to be expected, no fish was caught.

‘It would therefore be going much farther than is justified by the evidence to describe the defender as a person employed in the said fisheries, and it is impossible to avoid coming to the conclusion that all he has done in the way of herring fishing was with a view to the defence in this action, and to give some appearance of plausibility to the pretext that he has erected this hut under the powers contained in the statute.

‘Again, if the defender claims the right to the use of land belonging to the [Duke] on account of its being waste or uncultivated ground, it would be expected that he should produce evidence on this point; but there is nothing beyond his own statement that, “the hut is erected on level ground alongside the rock. It is not cultivated land, and never was cultivated.” The common of Heanish, on which the hut is built, is so far uncultivated that it is only used for grazing; but important information as to the nature of the ground is got from the [Duke’s] witnesses. Mr MacDiarmid [the factor] says that “the hut is built on ground under good grass on the common of Heanish, and has good grass surrounding it.” … John MacDonald, one of the Heanish tenants, says, “the hut is built on a good piece of grass on the common. It is on a dry part of the common, which is on that account good for wintering sheep.” … We must refuse to apply the term “waste or uncultivated” to it, and it must be held that the [Duke] is entitled to be protected in his property.’ (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 16 November 1889, p. 5)

Dr John Holliday

The president of the Tiree Association between 1928 and 1931 was Hugh Alexander Low of 33 Woodend Drive, Jordanhill. His mother Jessie MacFadyen was from Barrapol. Born in Kinning Park, he worked as a surveyor, and played a part in the development of the Knightswood housing scheme in 1923.

He was very active during his term of office. He organised the first flight to Tiree in 1929 to coincide with Tiree Association Sports Day on The Reef.

https://www.aniodhlann.org.uk/?s=2000.229.1
The first plane to land on Tiree in 1929.

The Glasgow Tiree Association are making arrangements for a dramatic entertainment to be given in the Atheneum Theatre, Glasgow, on Thursday 26th and Friday 27th February, the proceeds to be devoted to the development of the nursing services in Tiree. Through the good offices of the President, Mr Hugh Alexander Low, F.F.S. [Fellow of the Faculty of Surveyors], the Albany Players and The Quest will present ‘What it is to be young’’, a comedy in three acts, by James Bridie. The office-bearers of the Association are to be congratulated in their efforts to popularise drama among the Highlanders of Glasgow, and the proposed entertainment should make a strong appeal to Highlanders and their friends. Vouchers for reserved seats and tickets for unreserved seats may be had from Mr Hugh Alexander Low. (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser 14 February 1931, 2)

https://www.aniodhlann.org.uk/object/2017-21-2/
The Tiree Association committee around 1930.

The munificence of Mr Hugh Alexander Low in endowing a ‘Tiree Bed’ in the Glasgow Western Infirmary, particulars of which were reported in last week’s issue, gives further proof of this gentleman’s interest in the welfare of Tiree and its people. This action is quite in keeping with the spirit of generosity that marks this public-spirited citizen. The donor dedicates his gift in memory of his parents, the late William and Jessie MacFadyen Low. His work on behalf of improved transport and his efforts to popularise the Highlands as offering unequalled attraction for holiday-makers are but a few of his many services which would help not only to benefit the Western Isles, but likewise the whole of our Scottish Highlands. Mr Low’s magnificent work in Highland causes is well known, and his very successful period of office as President of the Glasgow Tiree Association put that organisation in the forefront of our Highland Societies. Many people have much reason to be grateful to him for the uplift given to the study of Gaelic by the presentation in recent years of interesting dramatic themes bearing on Highland life. He contributed generously in this way. In such matters, Mr Low has been a pioneer. His latest act of kindness has been favourably commented upon as a worthy example of altruism among our citizens … Mr Low’s term of three years as President of the Tiree Association will remain a memorable epoch in its history. (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 6 June 1931, 2)

We have to remind our Glasgow readers of the lecture entitled ‘A Trip to South Africa’ to be given by Mr Hugh Alexander Low to the members and friends of the Tiree Association in the Engineers’ Institute on 10th February. Mr Low, when on tour, met many Highlanders, and, being desirous of letting his Glasgow friends benefit by his itinerary, he took note of many items of interest which has enabled him to prepare a lecture which we have no doubt will attract a large gathering. The lecture will be illustrated by limelight views [a magic lantern]. (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 6 February 1932, 2)

Mr Neil MacDonald, Convener of the School, presided at the closing meeting, the feature of which was the distribution of prizes gifted by Mr Hugh Alexander Low. Mr Low’s generosity is greatly appreciated by pupils, parents and staff. (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 8 July 1933, 2)

Hugh Alexander Low died in 1934 at the age of 51. The 2/4 march ‘Hugh Alexander Low of Tiree’ by Hugh Campbell is widely played today.

A meeting of the [Tiree] Agricultural Show Committee was held at Scarinish … As the meeting was the first general one since February of last year, the members expressed their deep sense of loss at the death of their esteemed patron, Mr Hugh Alexander Low … Mr Low had taken a keen interest in, and had been a tower of strength to, the Show, and by his passing the whole island had lost a sincere and true friend. It was resolved to convey the committee’s deepest sympathy to Mrs Low. (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 23 February 1935, 6)

Dr John Holliday

AN COMUNN TIRISDEACH THE TIREE ASSOCIATION

Proposed Tiree Association (1901)

‘It is proposed to form a Tiree Association in Glasgow, where many of the islanders reside, and all favourable to the project are invited to communicate with Mr Neil Campbell Colquhoun, 30, Couper Street. A public meeting will be convened shortly, and duly announced, and it is hoped that all natives of Tiree will respond with heartiness, and assure the success of the movement.’ (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 2 March 1901, 5)

FORMATION OF TIREE ASSOCIATION
Enthusiastic Meeting

‘For some time past, the formation of a Glasgow Tiree Association has been under consideration. It was by many natives of the island felt that the representation of their island home in the city was, if not a necessity, at least a most desirable thing, and at the recent Tiree Bazaar the need of such an association was made apparent. In other matters it has also been believed that Tiree would benefit were it, like so many other places, to have an association of its sons in Glasgow to keep a watchful eye on its interests. While general agreement was thus held as to the desirability of the association itself, matters advanced no further until the initiative was taken by Messrs Neil Campbell Colquhoun and Mr Neil MacLaine, both well-known in the city as enthusiastic Highlanders—the former in connection with the Clan Colquhoun Society, of which he is hon. secretary and treasurer, and the latter in connection with the Clan MacLean and Cèilidh nan Gàidheal. A meeting called by those gentlemen took place in the Religious Institution Rooms [at 177 Buchanan Street] on Thursday evening, 14th inst., and was well attended, the hall being completely full. The objects of the meeting were briefly explained by Mr Colquhoun, and thereafter Mr Neil MacLaine was called upon to take the chair. The meeting being unanimous as to the desirability of forming an association in which the natives of Tiree would be interested, it was decided to carry out the purposes for which the meeting had been called, and office bearers were nominated. A telegram was received from Tiree expressing cordial approval of the proposed association, and wishing every success to the movement. Office-bearers were then nominated.

‘The meeting was most enthusiastic throughout, a fact which augurs well for the future of the infant association. In a week’s time the directors are to meet and prepare rules, etc., for the government of the association, and shortly thereafter, it is expected, a second meeting of the natives will be called. Besides the promoters of the meeting—Messrs Colquhoun and MacLaine—the thanks of those interested are due to Mr Alex. MacKinnon, 74 Hyndland Street, who occupied the office of interim secretary, and discharged the duties in an efficient manner, adding greatly to the dispatch of the business before the meeting.’ (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 23 March 1901, 2)

The Association’s first concert and dance was held in April 1901 at the Waterloo Rooms. (This was a popular venue in a former church at the corner of Waterloo and Wellington Streets. It was demolished and replaced in 1910 by the Alhambra Theatre.) Within a month of the association’s formation, there were 70 members. (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 4 May 1901, 2)

The Tiree Association went on to set up a sports day (1902) and regatta (1903) on the island during Fair Fortnight, collected funds for and erected the war memorial, and published the Roll of Honour after the First World War. The Association also published an important collection of Tiree songs Na Bàird Thirisdeach.

‘Under the auspices of the Glasgow Tiree Association, sports are to be held on the Island of Tiree on Tuesday first, Mr Thomas Barr having kindly granted the use of the grounds at the Reef. A concert is to be held on Wednesday at Balemartine in aid of the prize fund of the sports; while on the 24th July a handicap race for fishing skiffs will be held off Scarinish, followed in the evening by another concert. All the events are open to the natives of Tiree and Coll and the members of the Association. In conjunction with the sports, a tug-of-war team has been training in the grounds of the Govan police for some time. The team has been brought together by Mr Hector MacFadyen. (Highland News, 18 July 1903, 5)

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Katie MacPhail and her postman husband Lachlan MacPhail at the Tiree Association Sports Day on The Reef in 1931.

The Association also ran regular meetings in Glasgow to bring together the Tiree community in the city:

‘There was a large attendance at the monthly meeting of [the Tiree] Association held last Thursday evening in the Waterloo Rooms, Mr Hector MacFadyen presiding. A Gaelic debate took place on ‘Whether is it better to be married or single?’ Mr Neil MacLaine led off in favour of ‘married life’, while Mr Hector Cameron defended single-blessedness. After a long debate, in which many of the members took part, the vote was taken, when 22 voted in favour of married life, and 21 supported single life. A number of songs were afterwards rendered.’ (Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 13 December 1902, 2)

Dr John Holliday

Yesterday’s News

We are lucky to have such a good Youth Work Programme on Tiree. These 75-year-old reports show that youth and social clubs have a long history on the island. You may recognise the names of some of those involved.

1950

COMMUNITY CENTRE: The first Open Night held by the recently formed Community Centre in the Youth House was highly successful and well supported by young folk and adults from all parts of the island. Dr D. G. Hunter [the island’s GP] gave an interesting and helpful paper, and later took the lead in a short and profitable discussion. Table tennis, draughts etc. were popular with folk of all ages, while for others there were sewing and knitting activities. It is hoped to form a handicraft section under Mrs Stevenson, and a Badminton Group is also to be formed. Dancing and tea followed.

DISCUSSION GROUP: The fortnightly meeting of the group took the form of a debate on whether the establishment of industries would arrest West Highland de-population. The chair for the evening was taken by Mr N. Buchanan, and the affirmative and negative leaders were Mr Alex. MacLean and Mr J. Galt [the Coop manager] respectively. Points were well made on both sides, and a ready discussion focussed much helpful attention on an issue of vital importance to the West. There was a marked emphasis on the need for further development of the industries already present and traditional in the area, but it was the majority view that the establishment of appropriate new industries would be of much help.

AN COMUNN [Gàidhealach, the organisation behind the Mòd]: The Cornaig Branch of An Comunn held its opening Ceilidh recently. When the night had begun with the rallying song [Oran Tionail by Niall Ros], the chairman of the branch, who was Fear-an-Tighe for the evening, outlined the work that the branch hoped to cover during the winter, and thereafter a night of Gaelic song and story, with first class instrumental selections from Mr C. MacLean, was enjoyed. The Ladies’ Committee saw to the provision of the usual cup of tea. Those who contributed to the night’s entertainment were Miss Morag MacDonald, and Messrs J. Henderson, A. H. MacPhail, L. Brown, H. A. MacArthur, Angus MacDonald, M. Black, A. C. MacDougall, and N. Buchanan.

(Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 9 December 1950, 2)

2007.21.1

Pupils from Cornaig School on a school trip to Oban in 1945 for the Argyll Inter-School Games. L–R: Donald MacKay, Skye; Joe MacLeod, Balemartine; Alasdair Straker, Balemartine; Colina MacDonald, Mannal; Neil Johnston, Heanish; Neil Sinclair, Balephuil; Patsy MacPhee; Jimmy Curran, Silversands, Vaul; Ina Brown, Balephuil. The pupils were accompanied by teacher Pat Robertson from Scarinish.

1951

COMMUNITY CENTRE: The beetle drive recently held by the Community Centre in the Youth House was well supported, and, after an evening’s fun interrupted only for tea, the winners were as follows: Ladies—Mrs J. Graham and Miss C. MacLean. Gentlemen—Messrs. Stewart and N. Campbell. A large number attended the dance which followed. Music was played by two young local accordionists, H. MacPhee and M. Omand, assisted by H. Campbell, and the duties of M.C. were undertaken by Messrs J. Wilson [the bank manager] and J. Galt.

The Open Nights run by the Community Centre have maintained their popularity with adults of every age, and at their most recent full advantage was taken of the facilities for games and pastimes of all kinds. After tea, the customary lecture period was taken by Mr N. Buchanan, who initiated a short discussion with an interesting talk on “Depopulation and Island Problems”. The ladies’ darts tournament, after keen competition, was won by Mrs P. Robertson, with Miss Margaret MacKinnon as runner-up. During an interval, the opportunity was taken to say farewell to one of the Centre’s most popular and enthusiastic members, Mr A. Eaglesham, who now leaves Tiree on transfer to a banking post in Glasgow. Mr P. Robertson, as chairman, called on Miss Mona MacDonald the secretary to hand over a small token of good wishes, and Mr Eaglesham suitably replied. The dancing corner was then opened for a short time to music supplied by Mr J. Graham [the gamekeeper] assisted by Mrs H. Brown.

JUVENILE FOOTBALL: A welcome indication of an interest in healthy sport was recently given in the football match between the youths of Balemartine and Balephuil on the ground of the former. After a keen tussle, the home team ran out comfortable winners, but Balephuil hope to level matters up in the return match to be played on their pitch.

(Oban Times and Argyllshire Advertiser, 3 March 1951, 7)

Dr John Holliday