During the last week in February, the 4'x4' sign (which had been up for 9 years), advertising the Studio Jewellery Workshop in Achnasheen, went missing.
The incident has been reported to the police, and the owners Steve and Susan Ploughman are offering a sizeable reward for any information which leads to a conviction or the return of the sign.
If you know anything about this please contact either:
Police officer David Thorburn, in Dingwall, on 01349 862 444, and quote incident number IO12001
Or Mr and Mrs Ploughman on 01445 720227
Draft Minutes: Meeting 3 February 2009
Draft Minutes: Garve & District Community Council Meeting - 3 February 2009
Present: Alex Mackenzie, Helen Grainge, Uisdean Menzies, Jean Hollingdale, Sue Tarr, Sheree Grant, Donald Northwood, Jimmy Ruggles Brise, Lady Eliza Melville, Ruari Matheson
8 Members of the Public, Cllr Urquhart
Apologies: Marion Taylor, John Urquhart
1. Chairperson opened meeting
2. Apologies
3. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meeting
Proposed Sue Tarr
Seconded Jimmy Ruggles Brise
4. Matters Arising
The Horse Race Night was very successful, with the Community Council, WRI and Strathgarve Primary School receiving £295.
All groups would like to thank those who attended the event or provided sponsorship/donations.
The Christmas Craft Fair was also successful and raised £325. Uisdean suggested that we contact Highland Council with regards to an outside socket so that in future years we could have a village Christmas tree. Request was also made for Achnasheen Village. Donald will write to Highland Council.
Gorstan Speed Limit – no update given as to when speed limit at Gorstan will change. Cllr Urquhart informed the meeting that there were proposals for new speed limit around village of Garve. This was in connection with changes to all roads leading to schools. New limit will be 20.
War Memorial – still waiting for 2nd quotation. Usidean would like to note thanks to the Railway employees who have done a great job of clearing below War Memorial.
Gorstan Culvert – repaired.
Gorstan Speed Limit/Accidents – no reply from Transerv, Secretary to write again with regards to junction and debris left in burn below junction. Also reported at this point was lack of crash barrier at Loch Chullin due to car accident damage, Cllr Urquhart to investigate.
SNH Ben Wyvis Report. Noted. Management Plan to be finalised from report.
Treasurers Report - Uisdean read out report on behalf treasurer: Main Account: £2045.27 - Senior Citizens: £395.65 - War Memorial: £656.46
Donation received from Achnasheen Amenities Association for Senior Citizens fund. Sheree to write and thank.
Planning:
Notification received of Planning Meeting at Inchbae with regards to erection of house and chalets. Received 3/2/09 which was date of meeting.
Correspondence:
Thank you letters from individuals with regards to Christmas Party.
Highland Council, submission on observations regarding planning.
Scottish Parliament re climate change results of survey.
Forestry Commission – sale of Garve Hill, Loch Luichart Plantation and Wester Corriemoillie.
Highland Health Voices – newsletters
Information with regards to Houses of Multiply Occupancy.
E-mail form Claire Simmons re National Planning Framework.
Any Other Business:
Secretary - Donald is unable to continue with duties for temporary period, Sheree to continue to take minutes and will now check emails and circulate. Pam Morrison volunteered to check correspondence and collate.
Recycling – Sue spoke on behalf of Larisa. As most people will be aware “blue” bins are to be provided in the Garve area for recycling of plastic and paper, Larisa would like it noted that she will continue with the project for recycling plastic at Garve.
Dog Fouling – complaints have been received with regards to dog fouling, dog warden has visited area and informed Community Council that she is unable to do anything further unless perpetrators are caught allowing their dogs to foul without cleaning up.
Fly Tipping – there have been instances of fly tipping in the area. Jimmy will bring this up at the ward forum.
Coffee mornings/book swap – a new group is hoping to meet in Garve Village hall to hold coffee morning and swap books, Community Council agreed to help fund project with donation of £30 to help cover initial costs.
Sue raised the point that we have missed a meeting due to the December cancellation. It was agreed that in future if a meeting is cancelled it will be held the following Tuesday as far as reasonable practicable.
Newsletter – reminder that next meeting is to be held in Garve Village Hall at 7.30pm on 17th February 2009. We are looking at purchasing a new copier and the various funding methods available.
Grit Bins – a member of the public raised the question regarding the use of grit bins, Cllr Urquhart confirmed that anyone can used grit from bins but hoped that people would only use reasonable amounts to clear paths etc. Donald to write to Tech Services with regards to additional or larger grit bins in Achnasheen and new bin at Achanault.
Present: Alex Mackenzie, Helen Grainge, Uisdean Menzies, Jean Hollingdale, Sue Tarr, Sheree Grant, Donald Northwood, Jimmy Ruggles Brise, Lady Eliza Melville, Ruari Matheson
8 Members of the Public, Cllr Urquhart
Apologies: Marion Taylor, John Urquhart
1. Chairperson opened meeting
2. Apologies
3. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meeting
Proposed Sue Tarr
Seconded Jimmy Ruggles Brise
4. Matters Arising
The Horse Race Night was very successful, with the Community Council, WRI and Strathgarve Primary School receiving £295.
All groups would like to thank those who attended the event or provided sponsorship/donations.
The Christmas Craft Fair was also successful and raised £325. Uisdean suggested that we contact Highland Council with regards to an outside socket so that in future years we could have a village Christmas tree. Request was also made for Achnasheen Village. Donald will write to Highland Council.
Gorstan Speed Limit – no update given as to when speed limit at Gorstan will change. Cllr Urquhart informed the meeting that there were proposals for new speed limit around village of Garve. This was in connection with changes to all roads leading to schools. New limit will be 20.
War Memorial – still waiting for 2nd quotation. Usidean would like to note thanks to the Railway employees who have done a great job of clearing below War Memorial.
Gorstan Culvert – repaired.
Gorstan Speed Limit/Accidents – no reply from Transerv, Secretary to write again with regards to junction and debris left in burn below junction. Also reported at this point was lack of crash barrier at Loch Chullin due to car accident damage, Cllr Urquhart to investigate.
SNH Ben Wyvis Report. Noted. Management Plan to be finalised from report.
Treasurers Report - Uisdean read out report on behalf treasurer: Main Account: £2045.27 - Senior Citizens: £395.65 - War Memorial: £656.46
Donation received from Achnasheen Amenities Association for Senior Citizens fund. Sheree to write and thank.
Planning:
Notification received of Planning Meeting at Inchbae with regards to erection of house and chalets. Received 3/2/09 which was date of meeting.
Correspondence:
Thank you letters from individuals with regards to Christmas Party.
Highland Council, submission on observations regarding planning.
Scottish Parliament re climate change results of survey.
Forestry Commission – sale of Garve Hill, Loch Luichart Plantation and Wester Corriemoillie.
Highland Health Voices – newsletters
Information with regards to Houses of Multiply Occupancy.
E-mail form Claire Simmons re National Planning Framework.
Any Other Business:
Secretary - Donald is unable to continue with duties for temporary period, Sheree to continue to take minutes and will now check emails and circulate. Pam Morrison volunteered to check correspondence and collate.
Recycling – Sue spoke on behalf of Larisa. As most people will be aware “blue” bins are to be provided in the Garve area for recycling of plastic and paper, Larisa would like it noted that she will continue with the project for recycling plastic at Garve.
Dog Fouling – complaints have been received with regards to dog fouling, dog warden has visited area and informed Community Council that she is unable to do anything further unless perpetrators are caught allowing their dogs to foul without cleaning up.
Fly Tipping – there have been instances of fly tipping in the area. Jimmy will bring this up at the ward forum.
Coffee mornings/book swap – a new group is hoping to meet in Garve Village hall to hold coffee morning and swap books, Community Council agreed to help fund project with donation of £30 to help cover initial costs.
Sue raised the point that we have missed a meeting due to the December cancellation. It was agreed that in future if a meeting is cancelled it will be held the following Tuesday as far as reasonable practicable.
Newsletter – reminder that next meeting is to be held in Garve Village Hall at 7.30pm on 17th February 2009. We are looking at purchasing a new copier and the various funding methods available.
Grit Bins – a member of the public raised the question regarding the use of grit bins, Cllr Urquhart confirmed that anyone can used grit from bins but hoped that people would only use reasonable amounts to clear paths etc. Donald to write to Tech Services with regards to additional or larger grit bins in Achnasheen and new bin at Achanault.
Eggscellent Day in Achnasheen!
We had an eggstremely good day at the Ledgowan Lodge Hotel on Saturday, 21 March, when we held the fundraising Easter Fayre.
Although the attendance from the public was poor (where were you all?) we did raise a total sum of nearly £300 split between the School Parent Council, the Community Council, Achnasheen Amenities and Marie Curie Cancer Care. Thanks to all who dug deep into their pockets.
The ‘stars’ of the event were the fantastic entries for the best Easter bonnet design and best egg decoration, from the pupils of Strathgarve and Lochcarron Primary schools and Dingwall Academy, which were all displayed for the public to vote for their favourites. And, after a tense wait for the votes to be counted, the eight winners were announced:
1st Maisie Mackenzie, Strathgarve PS, 2nd Rubin Gowdy, Strathgarve PS, 3rd equal Emma Ross, Lochcarron PS, and Mairi Jane Urquhart, Dingwall Academy, 4th Rachel Urquhart, Strathgarve PS, 5th Alasdair Shillaker, Lochcarron PS, 6th Matt young, Lochcarron PS, 7th Callum Maclennan, Lochcarron PS.
Prizes for the day were yummy eggs donated by Debbie Peters, Ann Grant and Jim Curry. The voting slips and the presentation of the entries was expertly organised by Charlotte.
The youngsters had plenty of opportunities to win eggs by participating in an egg hunt in the grounds of the hotel, as well as the Tombola, and Harry’s Famous Challenge - a golf game which had, in addition, to eggy prizes, a pristine £10 note up for grabs.
Unfortunately, Harry was unable to be present due to ill-health, so Jim and Jackie endeavoured to run the game in Harry’s spirit. And, much hilarity was caused when Jim used a trick ball on some of the contestants.
Of course, it was inevitable that the £10 would be won by someone - Isla Grant was pretty determined that the note would be hers - and she succeeded, after some discussion on the rules with Helen adjudicating. Well done Isla! (And thank you Helen).
The children thoroughly enjoyed themselves - and as one Mum has reported “We all had a lovely day and the kids really enjoyed it - we've now got a chocolate shop in our kitchen!”
Helen in her artistic capacity entertained us with face painting, and this proved pretty popular with BOTH adults and children. Designs included sparkles and flags and one young man was even given a pretty scary Dracula face!
Thanks for everyone who contributed to the Tombola stand, which was run by Sheree and Sue - eggs abounded as prizes, and this table alone raised £80.
Rhoda and other parents had a table for the Parent Council which was just too tempting for words - cakes and millionaire’s shortbread - as well as other hand-made items sold to raise funds for the school - which amounted to a grand total of £90! (That’s a lot of cakes!)
Jo’s table, raising funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care was loaded with goodies, including some wonderful daffodil wellie boots! (Unfortunately not in adult sizes).
Gill and Laura tempted with more wonderful home-baked cakes and biscuits, and other items (folks you missed out on some really good cd’s!).
What a great day, and what a great venue - our thanks to the Duffield family who gave us free use of the function room for the day (although we did take over the rest of the hotel and grounds as well!). It was very much appreciated.
Finally, a BIG THANKS to those of you who supported this event. Without your participation by donating, attending, organising tables, etc, we would not have had such a great day.
Oh, and the sun finally did appear…. not bad for Achnasheen, eh?
Announcements
New Grandchild
Donald and Sandra Northwood announce the arrival of their 5th grandchild, Madoline Fern born at 19.40 on the 3 January 09, weighing in at 7lb 10oz. Mother and baby doing well. We now have 3 boys and 2 girls.
Happy 60th Birthday, boys!
Ronnie Ross celebrated his 60th birthday on the 9 March. Double celebrations followed. Ronnie and wife Dena spent Ronnie’s birthday at the luxurious Dunblane Spar. Then upon their return a surprise party was held for Ronnie in the community hall, Achnasheen. A great time was had by all. Family and everyone in the community who knows Ronnie send him love and very best wishes.
Another person in Achnasheen celebrating their 60th birthday was Michael Clough. We hope you had a great day, Michael. Many happy returns we hope you had a lovely day from all your friends in the village.
Happy 13th Birthday to the teenagers…
Mairi-Jane on the 24 March, and Sandy on the 5 April. Love from both families xxx
Some sad news…
Everyone in the community sends their condolences to the family of Peggy Syrjanen who passed away recently. A lovely lady who will be greatly missed. The photograph shows Marion Taylor who presented a bouquet of flowers, on behalf of the community, to Peggy on her 95th birthday in January.
Fund Raising Dance
Friday 17 April at Fairburn Memorial Hall, Marybank. Come along and ceilidh with ‘Torridon’ - see advert on page 15.
Thank you
A big thank you to Jackie and Jim who came to sort me out after my fall - they came rushing down to clean me up and got me a cup of tea, etc - thank you so much. Debs.
NEW! Coffee Morning and Book Swap
Coffee morning, book swap and chat, starts on Wednesday 15th April from 10.30 -12.30. Come along to Garve Village Hall, bring a book and have a blether! Everyone welcome - we look forward to seeing you. Helen Grainge.
Thanks for helping us with fundraising!
Strathgarve Primary School and Parent Council would like to thank all those involved in the school and community fund raising events which we have held over the last few months. Since November of last year we have raised over £876.
£774 was used to buy a variety of fantastic equipment for the school and over £52 was donated to the Highland Hospice. Many thanks to everyone who helped to organise and run these events - your help and support is very much appreciated. Charlotte Mackenzie
Donald and Sandra Northwood announce the arrival of their 5th grandchild, Madoline Fern born at 19.40 on the 3 January 09, weighing in at 7lb 10oz. Mother and baby doing well. We now have 3 boys and 2 girls.
Happy 60th Birthday, boys!
Ronnie Ross celebrated his 60th birthday on the 9 March. Double celebrations followed. Ronnie and wife Dena spent Ronnie’s birthday at the luxurious Dunblane Spar. Then upon their return a surprise party was held for Ronnie in the community hall, Achnasheen. A great time was had by all. Family and everyone in the community who knows Ronnie send him love and very best wishes.
Another person in Achnasheen celebrating their 60th birthday was Michael Clough. We hope you had a great day, Michael. Many happy returns we hope you had a lovely day from all your friends in the village.
Happy 13th Birthday to the teenagers…
Mairi-Jane on the 24 March, and Sandy on the 5 April. Love from both families xxx
Some sad news…
Everyone in the community sends their condolences to the family of Peggy Syrjanen who passed away recently. A lovely lady who will be greatly missed. The photograph shows Marion Taylor who presented a bouquet of flowers, on behalf of the community, to Peggy on her 95th birthday in January.Fund Raising Dance
Friday 17 April at Fairburn Memorial Hall, Marybank. Come along and ceilidh with ‘Torridon’ - see advert on page 15.
Thank you
A big thank you to Jackie and Jim who came to sort me out after my fall - they came rushing down to clean me up and got me a cup of tea, etc - thank you so much. Debs.
NEW! Coffee Morning and Book Swap
Coffee morning, book swap and chat, starts on Wednesday 15th April from 10.30 -12.30. Come along to Garve Village Hall, bring a book and have a blether! Everyone welcome - we look forward to seeing you. Helen Grainge.
Thanks for helping us with fundraising!
Strathgarve Primary School and Parent Council would like to thank all those involved in the school and community fund raising events which we have held over the last few months. Since November of last year we have raised over £876.
£774 was used to buy a variety of fantastic equipment for the school and over £52 was donated to the Highland Hospice. Many thanks to everyone who helped to organise and run these events - your help and support is very much appreciated. Charlotte Mackenzie
In Brief
* Young children who watch a lot of television are much fatter than those who do not. North-East scientists thought the cause was probably unhealthy snacking rather than inactivity.
*It is hoped that a 'pay as you play' nine-hole golf course will be developed on the Braham Estate, near Dingwall. The site, used for forty years as a Scout camp-site, closed in 2005 for "safety reasons due to timber extraction."
*A Wester Ross nature reserve has been honoured with another European Diploma for the sixth time in succession. A BBC camera crew has spent the past year filming the sights to see at Beinn Eighe and nearby Loch Maree. Beinn Eighe is Britain's oldest Nature Reserve, having been created in 1951.
*It is hoped that Inverness airport will attract more airlines now that an in-house radar system is in place. This replaces the service provided, in the past, by RAF Lossiemouth. The new radar tower employs twelve air traffic controllers and eight assistants. Eight of these are new employees.
*In case you were wondering... A carbon footprint is: "a measure of human activity in terms of the amount of greenhouse gasses produced" It is measured in the equivalent units of CO2.
*The toll of over-drinking in Scotland's public health was underlined when it emerged that alcohol-related illnesses now account for more admissions in Scotland's hospitals than does heart disease.
*Two pieces of useful equipment saved a Scottish walker's life when he became disorientated in thick mist. His mobile phone was kept warm (and therefore working) by rubbing it in his hands and the flash from his camera penetrated the mist and he was noticed by a rescue helicopter pilot.
*"Low fat foods don't taste awful - just different" said a professor of nutrition. He suggests that all manufacturers reduce fat in their products "by stealth" over a five year period. His worry is that if only ASDA do this, people would go to Tesco instead. A co-ordinated Government approach is suggested.
*Farmland birds, such as the yellowhammer and reed bunting, could be facing food shortages at the start of the breeding season due to early ploughing of fields. Birds face a "hungry gap" for several weeks from February to April where the ploughing of stubble and seed-bearing fields has already taken place.
*The Scottish Secretary, Jim Murphy, intends to mount a robust defence of Nuclear power. He believes that without it, Scotland will become an importer of electricity. The SNP has indicated that it intends to use devolved planning laws to prevent the building of Nuclear power stations.
*Stirling University is investigating the effects of domestic wind turbines on birds and bats. Anecdotal reports of birds and bats being killed - often by crashing into micro turbines - have prompted the investigation. Micro turbines are usually mounted on houses and business premises or in gardens and fields.
Pam Morrison
*It is hoped that a 'pay as you play' nine-hole golf course will be developed on the Braham Estate, near Dingwall. The site, used for forty years as a Scout camp-site, closed in 2005 for "safety reasons due to timber extraction."
*A Wester Ross nature reserve has been honoured with another European Diploma for the sixth time in succession. A BBC camera crew has spent the past year filming the sights to see at Beinn Eighe and nearby Loch Maree. Beinn Eighe is Britain's oldest Nature Reserve, having been created in 1951.
*It is hoped that Inverness airport will attract more airlines now that an in-house radar system is in place. This replaces the service provided, in the past, by RAF Lossiemouth. The new radar tower employs twelve air traffic controllers and eight assistants. Eight of these are new employees.
*In case you were wondering... A carbon footprint is: "a measure of human activity in terms of the amount of greenhouse gasses produced" It is measured in the equivalent units of CO2.
*The toll of over-drinking in Scotland's public health was underlined when it emerged that alcohol-related illnesses now account for more admissions in Scotland's hospitals than does heart disease.
*Two pieces of useful equipment saved a Scottish walker's life when he became disorientated in thick mist. His mobile phone was kept warm (and therefore working) by rubbing it in his hands and the flash from his camera penetrated the mist and he was noticed by a rescue helicopter pilot.
*"Low fat foods don't taste awful - just different" said a professor of nutrition. He suggests that all manufacturers reduce fat in their products "by stealth" over a five year period. His worry is that if only ASDA do this, people would go to Tesco instead. A co-ordinated Government approach is suggested.
*Farmland birds, such as the yellowhammer and reed bunting, could be facing food shortages at the start of the breeding season due to early ploughing of fields. Birds face a "hungry gap" for several weeks from February to April where the ploughing of stubble and seed-bearing fields has already taken place.
*The Scottish Secretary, Jim Murphy, intends to mount a robust defence of Nuclear power. He believes that without it, Scotland will become an importer of electricity. The SNP has indicated that it intends to use devolved planning laws to prevent the building of Nuclear power stations.
*Stirling University is investigating the effects of domestic wind turbines on birds and bats. Anecdotal reports of birds and bats being killed - often by crashing into micro turbines - have prompted the investigation. Micro turbines are usually mounted on houses and business premises or in gardens and fields.
Pam Morrison
Looking back...
Thanks to everyone who has emailed items, given me books, and handed me personal records, to contribute to the collection of historical items for this newsletter and website. I had intended to spend more time at Strathbran writing up further background on Sir Arthur, Lochrosque and the surrounds, but unfortunately I’ve run out of time for this issue (my day job just keeps getting in the way!). However, I shall be back on track for the next newsletter.
In the meantime, here’s a few snippets which I hope you’ll read here for the first time (of course, if any of this information is incorrect please let me know, I’ll be happy to set the record straight).
CONTIN:
Bonnie Prince Charlie allegedly had his horses shod at the Old Smiddy, on his way to rally the troops. (Culloden, perhaps?) Anyone know anything about this?
ACHNASHEEN RAILWAY STATION:
Some interesting photographs on the internet, if you’re interested have a look at www.signalbox.org. The station used to have a goods shed, water tower for the steam engines and two signal boxes.
SIR ARTHUR BIGNOLD:
Tain Museum has a website with image library:
www.tainmuseum.org.uk/imagelibrary/index.asp
they say the library is “...a database of folklore and history associated”.
This photograph, was taken in 1907, is described as follows “… taken at the entrance to the old Town Hall in Tower Street (later used as a cinema) following the Freedom of the Burgh Presentations to Sir Arthur Bignold, MP, and Colonel James Alex. Francis Humberston Stewart Mackenzie of Seaforth in 1907. Sir Arthur is probably the white bearded gentleman at the front with Lady Bignold beside him. Also in the picture are various councillors, baillies and other dignitaries (including the Countess-Dowager of Moray and Sir Kenneth Matheson, Bart. of Lochalsh) and leading businessmen. A cake and wine banquet took place afterwards in the Royal Hotel.
BUILDINGS IN ACHNASHEEN:
Before 1870 the only buildings in Achnasheen were four cottages owned by the Strathbran estate. The oldest of these is thought to be the tiny building just in front of, and to the west of, ‘The Cottage’. The others are the previously semi-detached pair which are now ‘The Cottage’ itself, and the fourth is the small cottage known as Moruisg which is immediately opposite the railway station and has stables alongside it. This fourth cottage was renovated and extended in the early 1970’s. At the western end a portion of the stables was incorporated to form a living room. This cottage was nameless until 1969.
ACHNASHEEN PRIMARY SCHOOL:
Extracts taken from ‘Achnasheen Primary School - A Century of Change’.
From the very early years, the local community has had a very real involvement in the life of the school. In December 1896 it is noted that Mr Somerville of Birkenhead, who owned one of the local estates, donated the annual prizes and he continued as a benefactor for several years. By the mid-1950’s the Marquesa de Torremehosa, who lived at Strathbran Lodge, was supporting the school and in June 1953 she provided Coronation mugs for all the local children, and in December of the same year she also hosted a Christmas party for the children at the lodge. This marked the beginning of her long association with the school.
When the school was first built, its isolation, due to limited transport facilities, would have meant that outings were hardly a viable proposition. However, there is evidence in the logbook of a trip, by train, to Strathpeffer on the 18 June 1897, to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. The next evidence of a trip is in June 1939, when the children were taken to Inverness, and it was observed that it would have been the first time some of them had seen a town.
The catchment area of the school originally stretched east to include Achanalt and beyond, south beyond Luib and west beyond Lochrosque. In September 1896, there was a suggestion that a school might be opened at Luibside but this seemed not to materialise. In 1895 there is evidence of pupils coming from Achanalt but by the 1930’s there was a school at Achanalt, which remained open until 1953, when the five pupils transferred to Achnasheen.
Weather conditions affected attendance, especially in the early days. When the school first opened most of the children would have had to walk to school, so stormy weather would definitely have caused a lower attendance. In the logbook, it is recorded that two boys had to walk three miles to school, and back. In January 1959 the Achanalt children were unable to attend for three weeks because of heavy snowfalls.
Sickness caused considerable absence, and until the late 40’s there was little protection against more serious childhood illnesses. The school would have to close in the event of serious sicknesses to prevent it spreading.
The main sicknesses causing closure were: Whooping cough - 6 weeks in the winter of 1902 and 1915. Measles - 5 weeks in winter 1905-6 and 1925. Scarletina - 3 weeks in February 1915. Mumps - 3 weeks February to March 1929. Scarlet Fever - January 1931.
Other reasons for ’absence’ have been recorded as: December 1896 - children from Achanalt were prevented from attending “because the department refused payment for their tickets.” It is not clear whether this is railway tickets, or which department refused the payment. April 1905 - one girl was absent for two days because she had no boots. April 1906 - children were withheld “for want of water”. March 1908 - one girl was absent for a fortnight to “keep house” because the rest of the family were ill.
Next issue we’ll learn more, as promised, about Sir Arthur and his house guests, and the famous people who have frequented the area in times past.
Jackie
In the meantime, here’s a few snippets which I hope you’ll read here for the first time (of course, if any of this information is incorrect please let me know, I’ll be happy to set the record straight).
CONTIN:
Bonnie Prince Charlie allegedly had his horses shod at the Old Smiddy, on his way to rally the troops. (Culloden, perhaps?) Anyone know anything about this?
ACHNASHEEN RAILWAY STATION:
Some interesting photographs on the internet, if you’re interested have a look at www.signalbox.org. The station used to have a goods shed, water tower for the steam engines and two signal boxes.
SIR ARTHUR BIGNOLD:
Tain Museum has a website with image library:
www.tainmuseum.org.uk/imagelibrary/index.asp
they say the library is “...a database of folklore and history associated”.
This photograph, was taken in 1907, is described as follows “… taken at the entrance to the old Town Hall in Tower Street (later used as a cinema) following the Freedom of the Burgh Presentations to Sir Arthur Bignold, MP, and Colonel James Alex. Francis Humberston Stewart Mackenzie of Seaforth in 1907. Sir Arthur is probably the white bearded gentleman at the front with Lady Bignold beside him. Also in the picture are various councillors, baillies and other dignitaries (including the Countess-Dowager of Moray and Sir Kenneth Matheson, Bart. of Lochalsh) and leading businessmen. A cake and wine banquet took place afterwards in the Royal Hotel.
BUILDINGS IN ACHNASHEEN:
Before 1870 the only buildings in Achnasheen were four cottages owned by the Strathbran estate. The oldest of these is thought to be the tiny building just in front of, and to the west of, ‘The Cottage’. The others are the previously semi-detached pair which are now ‘The Cottage’ itself, and the fourth is the small cottage known as Moruisg which is immediately opposite the railway station and has stables alongside it. This fourth cottage was renovated and extended in the early 1970’s. At the western end a portion of the stables was incorporated to form a living room. This cottage was nameless until 1969.
ACHNASHEEN PRIMARY SCHOOL:
Extracts taken from ‘Achnasheen Primary School - A Century of Change’.
From the very early years, the local community has had a very real involvement in the life of the school. In December 1896 it is noted that Mr Somerville of Birkenhead, who owned one of the local estates, donated the annual prizes and he continued as a benefactor for several years. By the mid-1950’s the Marquesa de Torremehosa, who lived at Strathbran Lodge, was supporting the school and in June 1953 she provided Coronation mugs for all the local children, and in December of the same year she also hosted a Christmas party for the children at the lodge. This marked the beginning of her long association with the school.
When the school was first built, its isolation, due to limited transport facilities, would have meant that outings were hardly a viable proposition. However, there is evidence in the logbook of a trip, by train, to Strathpeffer on the 18 June 1897, to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. The next evidence of a trip is in June 1939, when the children were taken to Inverness, and it was observed that it would have been the first time some of them had seen a town.
The catchment area of the school originally stretched east to include Achanalt and beyond, south beyond Luib and west beyond Lochrosque. In September 1896, there was a suggestion that a school might be opened at Luibside but this seemed not to materialise. In 1895 there is evidence of pupils coming from Achanalt but by the 1930’s there was a school at Achanalt, which remained open until 1953, when the five pupils transferred to Achnasheen.
Weather conditions affected attendance, especially in the early days. When the school first opened most of the children would have had to walk to school, so stormy weather would definitely have caused a lower attendance. In the logbook, it is recorded that two boys had to walk three miles to school, and back. In January 1959 the Achanalt children were unable to attend for three weeks because of heavy snowfalls.
Sickness caused considerable absence, and until the late 40’s there was little protection against more serious childhood illnesses. The school would have to close in the event of serious sicknesses to prevent it spreading.
The main sicknesses causing closure were: Whooping cough - 6 weeks in the winter of 1902 and 1915. Measles - 5 weeks in winter 1905-6 and 1925. Scarletina - 3 weeks in February 1915. Mumps - 3 weeks February to March 1929. Scarlet Fever - January 1931.
Other reasons for ’absence’ have been recorded as: December 1896 - children from Achanalt were prevented from attending “because the department refused payment for their tickets.” It is not clear whether this is railway tickets, or which department refused the payment. April 1905 - one girl was absent for two days because she had no boots. April 1906 - children were withheld “for want of water”. March 1908 - one girl was absent for a fortnight to “keep house” because the rest of the family were ill.
Next issue we’ll learn more, as promised, about Sir Arthur and his house guests, and the famous people who have frequented the area in times past.
Jackie
Wildlife and Nature
It must be spring. Thank goodness it has arrived at last!
How do I know that it has even arrived? Easy! The Siskins are here!
Our first one appeared a day or so ago - I assume they have rested well after their vacation in parts south. Along with the Siskins' reappearance, the finches now have their bright plumage on and even the Sparrows look sprightly!
Our 'local' deer - the regular nightly visitors - have, it would appear, forsaken us for the time being. It is just as well, since they have to cross a busy road to get here at night. It would not be the first time that a 'near miss' has occurred. They are, thankfully, quite rare in the village, though, thanks more to the drivers' quick wits than the Deers' understanding of the Highway Code. Mind you, some folks don't half drive a bit 'quickly' through the village...
Oddly, there have not been a lot of my usual sightings of Buzzards and Kites of late. Even my daily long train journeys have proved raptor-free.
It seems like Monty Halls is the only one seeing much wildlife these days. For anyone who hasn't already seen it, I'd recommend watching his programme on the BBC on Sunday nights. If nothing else, it does paint a lovely (quaint?) picture of Wester Ross, its sights, people and wildlife.
Hey! There's a thought, like Monty, I could hire a MicroLite glider and go raptor-finding (he used one to spot basking sharks in programme 3).
Our correspondent in Grudie bridge reports that in addition to their 'usual' Pine Martens, they have had some new faces 'round the dinner table. A stoat and a weasel! (Yes, you can weasily tell them apart, as they are stoatily different...)
I know, I know... I'll leave jokes to those better qualified.
Until next time...
Jim
PS: received this great photograph and note from Michael and Brenda Clough:
“This is our daily visitor to Achnasheen. When everything is gloomy he brightens our day, hope he brightens yours.”
How do I know that it has even arrived? Easy! The Siskins are here!
Our first one appeared a day or so ago - I assume they have rested well after their vacation in parts south. Along with the Siskins' reappearance, the finches now have their bright plumage on and even the Sparrows look sprightly!
Our 'local' deer - the regular nightly visitors - have, it would appear, forsaken us for the time being. It is just as well, since they have to cross a busy road to get here at night. It would not be the first time that a 'near miss' has occurred. They are, thankfully, quite rare in the village, though, thanks more to the drivers' quick wits than the Deers' understanding of the Highway Code. Mind you, some folks don't half drive a bit 'quickly' through the village...
Oddly, there have not been a lot of my usual sightings of Buzzards and Kites of late. Even my daily long train journeys have proved raptor-free.
It seems like Monty Halls is the only one seeing much wildlife these days. For anyone who hasn't already seen it, I'd recommend watching his programme on the BBC on Sunday nights. If nothing else, it does paint a lovely (quaint?) picture of Wester Ross, its sights, people and wildlife.
Hey! There's a thought, like Monty, I could hire a MicroLite glider and go raptor-finding (he used one to spot basking sharks in programme 3).
Our correspondent in Grudie bridge reports that in addition to their 'usual' Pine Martens, they have had some new faces 'round the dinner table. A stoat and a weasel! (Yes, you can weasily tell them apart, as they are stoatily different...)
I know, I know... I'll leave jokes to those better qualified.
Until next time...
Jim
PS: received this great photograph and note from Michael and Brenda Clough:“This is our daily visitor to Achnasheen. When everything is gloomy he brightens our day, hope he brightens yours.”
Letter to the Editor
Fascinated to see article re Lochrosque while trawling the internet.
My mother's family name is MacIntosh and her grandfather is the Donald MacIntosh you refer to in the article re the stag - a story my mother told.
Donald MacIntosh, in the 1891 census identified as a gamekeeper living with his wife and large family in the Cottage (possibly the head keeper's house, having 9 windows).
The MacIntoshes were very much part of the Lochrosque scene - one as piper to Sir Arthur, and others working variously on the estate and at the Post Office. This situation continued when Mrs Hanbury took on the estate, bringing fleets of Rolls Royces and the like to Lochrosque for the shooting in August.
My mother knew about the searchlight and also spoke of Queen Victoria's visit and rebuff by the Free Presbyterian MacIver family.
As a child my mother played in the Castle while the owners were away, her father being responsible for maintenance of the building - she spoke of his problems with water leaking in and of his risky efforts on the roof to effect repairs, also his struggles with the Westinghouse equipment which was situated alongside the road beneath the estate and visible for many years.
Various members of the family lived in the properties on the estate and also in the cottages across the road from the Post Office. They were an interesting and clever family and I am at present trying to put their history together, sadly after my mother is no longer with us to fill in the gaps!
Mary M MacDougall by email - received 12 February 2009.
My mother's family name is MacIntosh and her grandfather is the Donald MacIntosh you refer to in the article re the stag - a story my mother told.
Donald MacIntosh, in the 1891 census identified as a gamekeeper living with his wife and large family in the Cottage (possibly the head keeper's house, having 9 windows).
The MacIntoshes were very much part of the Lochrosque scene - one as piper to Sir Arthur, and others working variously on the estate and at the Post Office. This situation continued when Mrs Hanbury took on the estate, bringing fleets of Rolls Royces and the like to Lochrosque for the shooting in August.
My mother knew about the searchlight and also spoke of Queen Victoria's visit and rebuff by the Free Presbyterian MacIver family.
As a child my mother played in the Castle while the owners were away, her father being responsible for maintenance of the building - she spoke of his problems with water leaking in and of his risky efforts on the roof to effect repairs, also his struggles with the Westinghouse equipment which was situated alongside the road beneath the estate and visible for many years.
Various members of the family lived in the properties on the estate and also in the cottages across the road from the Post Office. They were an interesting and clever family and I am at present trying to put their history together, sadly after my mother is no longer with us to fill in the gaps!
Mary M MacDougall by email - received 12 February 2009.
The Hat
"What happened to my hat?" I said,
I had it when I went to bed.
It kept me warm, as books I read
long into the night.
Is it now amongst the blankets?
Has it fallen to the floor?
Will I find it when I make the bed?
Or is it lost for evermore?
It's just a woolly hat, I know
- but it's been my friend in rain and snow,
and I'd miss it, when again I go
outside into the cold.
I remember once, high up a hill
the wind had brought an icy chill.
Then, in my pocket, I did feel
the warm comfort of the hat!
I placed it fast upon my hair
I'm glad it's something that I wear.
It may look old, but I don't care!
It's a comfortable old hat!
It was made, I think, in Afghanistan.
From some old goat, you understand.
Just perfect for this mountain man
when on some rock, I sat.
When I woke up, this morning
it was all just a dream,
for the hat was still upon my head
where, all night, it must have been.
As I looked out of the window
the ground was thick with snow.
The weatherman said "This cold spell
is now 12 degrees below."
But it matters not to me!
As, in my garden, you will see
me feeding birds and an old wildcat.
As warm as toast, beneath 'the hat'.
I had it when I went to bed.
It kept me warm, as books I read
long into the night.
Is it now amongst the blankets?
Has it fallen to the floor?
Will I find it when I make the bed?
Or is it lost for evermore?
It's just a woolly hat, I know
- but it's been my friend in rain and snow,
and I'd miss it, when again I go
outside into the cold.
I remember once, high up a hill
the wind had brought an icy chill.
Then, in my pocket, I did feel
the warm comfort of the hat!
I placed it fast upon my hair
I'm glad it's something that I wear.
It may look old, but I don't care!
It's a comfortable old hat!
It was made, I think, in Afghanistan.
From some old goat, you understand.
Just perfect for this mountain man
when on some rock, I sat.
When I woke up, this morning
it was all just a dream,
for the hat was still upon my head
where, all night, it must have been.
As I looked out of the window
the ground was thick with snow.
The weatherman said "This cold spell
is now 12 degrees below."
But it matters not to me!
As, in my garden, you will see
me feeding birds and an old wildcat.
As warm as toast, beneath 'the hat'.
Recycling News
Garve village and Gorstan have now received their new blue wheelie bins, for collecting cardboard and plastic bottles. Fantastic! That’s what we have been waiting for, and here they are! Unfortunately, the service will only be available at the village.
A proposed service route to Braemar junction has been cancelled.
Any households not in the service area, who still wish to recycle their plastic bottles (and cardboard) can either bring this to a friend or relative's in Garve village/Gorstan, or save them up for a drive to the Dingwall Recycle Centre.
Next, some interesting information.
The destination of the plastic bottles' (blue wheelie bin) is: Central Belt, then England for recycling and some to Asia also.
The plastic bottles recycle centre highlands is Graham Imrie, Invergordon, who produces pallets and fence posts.
The Strathgarve school will, hopefully, start a can collection in the next week or two. They will receive £20 from Highland Council for every uplift.
Sometimes the roadsides get a bit horrible-looking though, but then I stop my car and do something about it. The stretch of road Garve-Strathrannoch gets cleaned every now and then (sometimes with the help of my son). Last time, the litter that I/we collected, filled half a green wheelie bin, it was mostly drinking cans and plastic bottles.
But think positive! I can really see that the amount of people who do care about the countryside is growing, and rubbish will be less “OUT” and more “IN” the bin. Yes, I’m an outsider - though I don’t feel like it! I moved to this area only 2 years ago (after visiting many, many times), and I would like to tell you: “You’ve got the most beautiful country, even with still some wilderness left. I adore you!”
Larisa
If you have any questions Larisa can be contacted on 01997 455 230.
A proposed service route to Braemar junction has been cancelled.
Any households not in the service area, who still wish to recycle their plastic bottles (and cardboard) can either bring this to a friend or relative's in Garve village/Gorstan, or save them up for a drive to the Dingwall Recycle Centre.
Next, some interesting information.
The destination of the plastic bottles' (blue wheelie bin) is: Central Belt, then England for recycling and some to Asia also.
The plastic bottles recycle centre highlands is Graham Imrie, Invergordon, who produces pallets and fence posts.
The Strathgarve school will, hopefully, start a can collection in the next week or two. They will receive £20 from Highland Council for every uplift.
Sometimes the roadsides get a bit horrible-looking though, but then I stop my car and do something about it. The stretch of road Garve-Strathrannoch gets cleaned every now and then (sometimes with the help of my son). Last time, the litter that I/we collected, filled half a green wheelie bin, it was mostly drinking cans and plastic bottles.
But think positive! I can really see that the amount of people who do care about the countryside is growing, and rubbish will be less “OUT” and more “IN” the bin. Yes, I’m an outsider - though I don’t feel like it! I moved to this area only 2 years ago (after visiting many, many times), and I would like to tell you: “You’ve got the most beautiful country, even with still some wilderness left. I adore you!”
Larisa
If you have any questions Larisa can be contacted on 01997 455 230.
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