Pentland Road - 2

Donald Mcleod was the witness for Lower Bayble at the Napier Commission's session at Stornoway on 11 June 1883. Unfortunately, there are two men with that name and aged about 60 in the 1881 census return, both living at Lower Bayble. Without further information, I am not able to make a distinction between the two. One is born in 1823 and married to Catherine, with three children. The other is born in 1825 and married to Christine, with seven children, varying in ages from newborn to 25 years of age. Further information welcome.

Donald Mccaskill was the witness for Sheshader at the Napier Commission's session in Stornoway on 11 June 1883. Unfortunately, I have been unsuccessful in finding a corresponding entry in the census returns for enumeration district 88. There are several possible permutations of the spelling of his surname, none of which yielded any result. Further information welcome.

Angus Mcleod was a crofter and fishmerchant from Portnaguran in Point, who gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 11 June 1883. Unfortunately, as no age is given, it is practically impossible for me to extract the corresponding census records for him. Further information welcome.

Duncan Mackenzie gave evidence to the Napier Commission in Stornoway on 11 June 1883 on behalf of the people of Melbost. We find him in the censuses of 1871 and 1881 at Melbost, married to Henrietta (3 years his junior) and with 4 children, varying in ages between 12 and 26 (in 1871). Duncan is aged 63 in 1881.  I have been unable to trace him in censuses before '71 or after '81.

Murdo Macleod , an agent for the British Linen Bank in Stornoway, gave evidence to the Napier Commission in the town on 11 June 1883. He appears in the 1891 census as a banker and chief magistrate in Stornoway, married to a Donaldina M Macleod, and with 4 children, aged between 3 and 8. There is also a Jessie Macfarlane at their address, "living on private means" and Murdo's niece Margaret L Macfarlane, aged 3, who was born in Minnesota, USA. I am unable to trace Murdo in any of the censuses before or after 1891.

Alexander Murray gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 11 June 1883. He is noted as a 46-year old merchant from the town. Unfortunately, it is difficult to extract the correct Alexander Murray from the census returns. In 1881, there are a few men of that name in enumeration district 88, the town of Stornoway who are not merchants. There is an Alexander Murray in the 1871 census who is aged 30, and a draper at 39 Keith Street, also appearing in the 1861 census. Whether he is the man that gave evidence in 1883 is unclear, due to the discrepancy in ages.

Lewismen lost at the Battle of Jutland, 31 May 1916 HMS Invincible Seaman ANGUS GRAHAM (50), 3020C Royal Naval Reserve, 4 Lower Garrabost, Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Seaman JOHN MACARTHUR (23), 3975A Royal Naval Reserve, 8 Cromore, Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Seaman ANGUS MACLEAN (32), 3965A Royal Naval Reserve, 17 Habost, Ness Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Seaman JOHN MACLEOD (42), 2050C Royal Naval Reserve, 56 North Tolsta, Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Seaman NORMAN MACLEOD (34), 2338C Royal Naval Reserve, 28 Lower Barvas, Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Seaman FINLAY MACRITCHIE (31) 2512/B Royal Naval Reserve, 46 Lower Barvas, Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Seaman DONALD MORRISON Royal Naval Reserve, 9 Calbost, Leading Seaman MURDO MURRAY (46), 2864B Royal Naval Reserve, 27 North Tolsta, Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Seaman DONALD SMITH (18) 2545A Royal Naval Reserve, 11 Cross Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18 Sign...

James Mccombie was a fish curer who gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 11 June 1883. He hailed from Peterhead, and that is where we find him in the census returns. In 1881, he is noted as employing 50 men and 10 boys in his occupation as herring merchant and curer. James lives at 5 Jamaica Street in Peterhead, and lives with his wife Sarah. They have 5 children, varying in ages from 1 to 11. By 1891, James has moved to 10 Fitzroy Place in Glasgow (Sandyford), continuing his businessas a fish merchant. His family has expanded to 8 children, aged between 3 and 20. In 1871, James is at 80 Longate St, a fishcurer employing 13 coopers and 3 boys. He is married to Sarah, who is 9 years younger than him, and their first child has appeared on the scene by then. Ten years earlier, James is lodging with the Hepburns in Rathven, Banffshire, marked as a fishcurer. By 1851, he is found at home with his parents James and Jane on Pool Lane in Peterhead, a 10-year old scholar....

Donald Smith gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 11 June 1883. He was a 49-year old fish-curer from the town. We find him in the 1881 census as a merchant at 28 Francis Street; the 1891 census lists him as a fish-curer and JP (justice of the peace) at 44 Francis Street. He was born at Callernish and married to Annie E. They had a son, John C; the 1881 census also lists two shopmen at the premises. A late addition to the family turns up on the 1891 census, with 3-year old Flora C E. By that time, John C is a student of practical chemistry. In 1901, the family have located to Matheson Road Springfield, a slightly leafier part of Stornoway. Donald and his son John C are both fish curers, and Flora a scholar. Going back in time, the 1871 census shows Donald at 28 Francis Street, with his wife Annie (nee Maclean), and their young sons John Campbell and Peter Mclean Smith. Peter died in 1874 at the age of 5. There are also two domestic servants and two shopmen in the ho...

Rev James Greenfield , the Free Church minister for Stornoway, is heard by the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 11 June 1883. In the 1881 census, he is marked as having been born in Canada; it is beyond the scope of my resources to trace the exact location in that territory. There is no mention of him in the 1851 or 1871 censuses for Canada. James is married to Eliza Jane and has 11 children, varying in ages from 14 years to 12 days. His mother, Mary (82), is living with him. Rev Greenfield is attended by a domestic staff of four. He lives in Francis Street in Stornoway. The 1891 census shows another addition to the family. EDIT: The Ancestry website has come up trumps. James Greenfield lies buried, with his wife Eliza (nee Maclean), in the Lakeview Cemetery at Thorold, Canada. This is about 6 miles west of Niagara Falls. The gravestone reads: Eliza J. McLean wife of Rev. James Greenfield 1842-1895 Rev. James Greenfield Free Church Stornoway Scotland 1832-1899

William Mackay was the chamberlain of the Lews, representating Lady Matheson in various parts of her estates. I list his main evidence below. He is also involved with exchanges with some witnesses, and gives an assurance that all witnesses can speak with impunity. Miavaig Barvas Stornoway Keose William Mackay was aged 56 when he faces Lord Napier's Commission. We trace him on the 1881 census and find he is born in Nairn. His occupation is "factor and senior magistrate". William lodges with Margaret Gillanders at 18 Francis Street, Stornoway. In 1871, he is an accountant, lodging with Margaret Gillanders. The 1861 shows 29-year old William Mackay as an accountant at 83 John Street, Glasgow Central. By 1891, William has retired to his hometown of Nairn (aged 64) and lives there at 11 Railway Terrace with his spouse Johanna. William Mackay died on 10 November 1901, aged 74. He is marked as the late Chamberlain of the Lews, married to Johanna Ross. His parents are ...

Napier Campbell was a solicitor, who spoke extensively at the Napier Commission in Stornoway on 11 June 1883. He was born in Edinburgh, and was staying at 17 South Beach Street, Stornoway in the 1881 census, marked as a procurator and enrolled law agent. Mr Campbell was lodging with the Grant family. In 1871, Napier Campbell was lodging at 40 Cromwell Street in Stornoway, with the Hunter family. His occupation is listed as Solicitor or procurator of faculty of Ross. Ten years earlier, we find Napier Campbell in Glasgow, Blythswood, at 12 Scotia Street, as a general clerk in writon (?) office.  He is lodging with the Lawrie family. In 1851, we see a young Napier Campbell, aged 19, a stockbroker's general clark. He is living with his mother Isabella at 60 North Castle Street in Edinburgh. His siblings are listed as Elizabeth (18), Letitia (14), Georgina (12) and Peter (20). The 1841 census lists Napier Campbell, aged 8, in amongst all the people at Edinburgh St Cuthberts. Napi...

Roderick Mcsween was the witness giving evidence on behalf of the crofters of Steinish at the Napier Inquiry at Stornoway, on 9 June 1883. We find him in the 1881 census at 6 Stenish Road, aged 69, married to Lilly who is of the same age. Their son Donald (25) is in their house, as is their granddaughter Jannet Murray (11).  Roderick is marked as born in Harris. The 1861 census shows the couple at 39 Steenish Road, now aged 46. Their 7 children, Catherine (22), Angus (19), John (17), Donald (13), Peter (11), Rosy (9) and Donald Murdo (5) are shown on the census entry as well. The same listing, minus those aged below 10, are displayed on the 1851 census. Roderick passed away on 12 April 1897, aged 80, having suffered from influenza and bronchitis. His parents are named as Angus and Margaret (nee Campbell). His wife Lilly died three years before, in 1894 at the age of 77. 

Alexander Morrison was a witness to the Napier Commission during its session at Stornoway on 9 June 1883. He is listed as a commission merchant, which makes it likely that he would move about in the country. There is one Alexander Morrison of about the age of this witness in enumaration district 88 in 1881, (Alexander Morrison was aged 29 in 1883), but he is a builder in Bayhead. The evidence available at this stage is insufficient to make a reliable connection to any individual in the 1881 census. Further information welcome.

Roderick Mcleod was a witness who spoke on behalf of the people of Upper Bayble at the Napier Commission's session at Stornoway on 9 June 1883. Unfortunately, it is not possible to readily distinguish between the two men named Roderick Mcleod from Upper Bayble, who were both born in 1815, according to the 1881 census. One was married to Mary, the other to Anne. The witness to the Commission was aged 69, i.e. born around 1814. Further information welcome.

John Stewart gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 9 June 1883, on behalf of the people of Bayble. It is not possible to readily distinguish between the two men, named John Stewart, living at Lower Bayble, and being of very nearly the same age, according to the 1881 census. One was a crofter and fish-splitter, the other a fisherman. The man who spoke at the Commission's hearing was a crofter and fisherman. One John Stewart was married to Annie and born about 1831, the other was married to Mary and born about 1829. Further information welcome. 

Kenneth Macleod gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 8 June 1883 on behalf of the people of Garrabost, Point. We find him in the 1881 census, aged 50, married to Christy Mcleod. They have 5 children, Angus (26), William (20), Isabella (16), Catherin (10) and Angus (8). The 1871 census adds John and Mary as children (ages between Angus and William), as well as a Christina, between Isabella and Catherine. Kenneth Macleod passed away on 17 January 1889, aged 59, having suffered from cardiac disease and cerebral effusion. He was married to Christina, and was the son of Alexander and Christina. His son William reported the death to the registrar at Stornoway.

Torquil Mcleod was a witness to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 8 June 1883, representing the village of Knock, Point. We find him in the 1881 census aged 40, married to Margaret (36). Their children were John (12), Mary (9), Isabella (5) and Donald (3). A decade earlier, the family were living with Torquil's parents  John (58) and Margaret (54) in Knock. Torquil's siblings were William (26), Mary (19) and Isabella (10).  Torqil's first child, John, is 6 months old at that time. In 1891, Torquil's family has grown to 6 children, with the addition of James (9), Catherine (6) and Torquil (3).  By 1901, they appear to have moved to 22 Swordale. A grandchild, Isabella (1), has appeared on the scene by that time. Torquil Mcleod died on 25 November 1901, only 7 or 8 months after the census was taken, aged 62. He is noted as a pauper, formerly a crofter, married to Margaret nee Mackenzie, and living at Swordale. The cause of death is epilepsy (6 years) and renal dis...

Alexander Mackenzie gave evidence on behalf of the people of Branahine [Braighe na h-Aoidhe]. We find him on the 1881 census at the age of 61, married to Isabella Mackenzie (57). The location of the couple is confirmed in the corresponding record from 1817. In '81, their children Malcolm (26), Robert (16) and Helen (14) are in the house. The 1871 census also shows an elder daughter Catherine, three years older than Malcolm; the 1861 census adds Janet, three years older than Catherine. Janet is Jessie in the 1851 census. The same record puts Alexander down as a crofter of 4 acres.

Angus Mcleod gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 8 June 1883. He was a crofter and fish merchant from Aird, Point. Unfortunately, the Report does not specify his age, and it is not possible to isolate the correct Angus Mcleod from the census returns for enumeration district 88, Parish of Stornoway.

Donald Martin was a witness to the Napier Commission during its session at Stornoway on 8 June 1883. The census for 1881 shows him at 85 Back, married to Elizabeth. They had 6 daughters, Isabella (16), Christina (14), Margaret (12), Ann (7), Johanna (4) and Jessie (2). They also occur in 1871, minus the children aged less than 10 in 1881. In 1861, Donald is living with his parents Norman (52) and Marion (50) at 4 Weavers' Lane. Donald, aged 25, is the eldest of the five children shown, which include siblings Anne (22), Donald (15), Mary (7) and Allan (3). The 1851 census also shows Christy, then aged 7. We first encounter Donald in the 1841, at that time aged 5. In 1891, Donald and Elizabeth continue to live at Back, and by that time they also have a son, Donald, aged 8. Donald senior died on 7 November 1900 at the age of 64, having suffered from cancer. His brother Allan reported the death to the registrar at Stornoway. Donald's wife Elizabeth (nee Morrison) died in 1927, a...

Roderick Mackenzie from Nether Coll near Stornoway gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Stornoway on 8 June 1883. The 1881 census shows him on Coll Road, with his wife Mary (74) and daughters Catherine (40) and Margaret (29), son Allan (erroneously marked as son-in-law) and granddaughter Isabella. The same family appears in 1871; the returns for 1851 and 1861 also show a son Murdo (younger than Catherine)  and a child Malcolm (6), whose relationship to other members of the family is not specified. Roderick Mackenzie passed away on 1 March 1885 at the age of 71. He was the son of John and Christina (nee Macleod). Cause of death is splenitis for 6 months. Roderick's age appears to be a tad uncertain, when compared with the census records.

Donald Campbell gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission during its session at Stornoway on 8 June 1883. He represented the township of South Tolsta. We find him in the 1881 census as living at 18 Tolsta, a crofter, 57 years of age, married to Catherine, the same age. Living in the same household are their children Anne (30), John (21) and Margaret (4) as well as granddaughter Christina (5). In 1871, the family lived at 75 Tolsta. We also find a daughter Catherine (16) and son Angus (9). Margaret is marked as aged 1 on this census; I have not been able to reliably ascertain her correct year of birth. In 1861, we find the Campbells at "1 Straight Street" in South Tolsta, with children Mary (10), Anne (9), Christina (7), Catherine and Jessie (both aged 4) and John (2). The 1851 census lists Donald (29) and Catherine (26) at South Tolsta, with Jean (aged 12??), Mary (1) and Ann (2 months). The 1841 census shows Donald as a 15-year old in South Tolsta, living with h...

The Glasgow Herald, 14 June 1873 Our Stornoway correspondent writes: Her Majesty's steamer Jackal (Lieutenant Clanchy commander), at present cruising about the Hebrides, an in charge of the fisheries at Barra, &c, recently visited St Kilda. After taking on board a supply of coal, the Jackal left Stornoway on Tuesday 3rd [June 1873] at 9 o'clock PM and arrived at the island the following morning, about ten o'clock. After a stay of two hours, the steamer took her departure, and returned to Stornoway harbour shortly after midnight same day, accomplishing the passage - via the Sound of Harris, a distance of nearly 200 miles - in about 27½ hours. The weather was all that could be wished by day and by night, and the waters of the Atlantic were as smooth as Stornoway Loch. The Kildeans, who presented a respecteable appearance, met those on board of the steamer at the landing place and gave them a hearty welcome,  many of them speaking good English. The village is situated ab...

Angus Campbell gave evidence to Lord Napier during the session at Barvas on 6 June 1883. In the 1881 census, we find him at the age of 56, living with his daughters Anne (23) and Margaret (21). In 1871, the census marks him as a tenant constable, with his daughters Christy (15), Ann (13), Maggie (11) and son Kenneth (9) in the house at North Bragar. By 1861, Angus is at North Bragar with his wife Ann, 4 years his junior, and children Christy (5), Ann (11) and Meron (2). What appears to be Angus Campbell is in the 1851 census as a cottar in North Bragar, marked on his own. In the 1891 census, Angus (now 65) remains at 28 North Bragar, with his children Kenneth and Margaret.  Kenneth's wife Margaret is also there, with their children Ann (4) and Norman (2). Angus passed away on  22 June 1899 at the age of 75. He died of influenza. He was the widower of Ann Finlayson and Christina Smith.  His neighbour reported his death to the registrar at Borve, which is 10 miles from B...

Norman Campbell gave evidence to Lord Napier during the session at Barvas on 6 June 1883. He spoke on behalf of the people of Arnol. I have only been able to trace him on the 1871 census, as living at Arnol. He is aged 54 at that point, married to Ann with 9 children, varying in age from 1 to 22. They are Malcolm (22), Norman (18), Ann (15), Mary (13), Christy (10), Effy (6), Donald (3) and John (1). In 1861, we also find Catherine Maclean, marked as Norman's mother. Forward in time, we find Norman and Ann at 14 Arnol in 1891, with their children Malcolm and Donald.  We also find their daughter Henrietta, living with her husband Malcolm and children Ann (3 months old), Christina and Donald (both aged 7). By 1901, the family have relocated to 33 Arnol. Present at that time are Norman (84) and Ann (75), with son Malcolm and his children Christina and Donald. It should be borne in mind that the Malcolm that is marked as Norman's son in the 1901 census is more likely to be his s...

Farquhar Murray gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Ness on 7 June 1883. At the time, he was in his early 50s, and we duly trace him in the 1881 census as living at 24 North Dell. He is a joiner and crofter, and has six children: Elizabeth (16), Donald (14), Rachel (12), Peter R (9), Malcolm (6) and Alexr (4). A decade earlier, he is listed as a cartwright, married to Cathrine, who was 11 years younger than Farquhar. Their children Elizabeth, Donald and Janet are listed, as are Farquhar's mother Catherine (74) and his sister Margret (37). The 1851 census, which gives the earliest reference to this witness, lists Farquhar Murray as a tenant at North Dell, living with his mother Catherine (50) and siblings Margaret (2), Anabella (12) and Dolina (10). Forty years later, the 1891 census shows Farquhar (58) with his six children at North Dell. By 1901, his daughter Rachel has married Donald Mcritchie, who has joined Farquhar and Rachel's siblings Elizabeth, Donald and Malc...

John Macleod is listed as a boat builder from Ness, aged 35, who gave evidence to Lord Napier on 7 June 1883. John lives at 9 Port with his wife Eliza, who is two years younger, and children Gordon (3) and John M (1). Also present is Eliza's sister Deanie Gordon. A decade earlier, John (23) lives with his parents Murdo (70) and Marion (58) in Port - he is a general merchant at that point. Also present are his siblings Donald (26) and Malcolm (18). In 1861, John is a 14-year old scholar. His siblings are listed as Norman (17), Cursty (12) and Malcolm (8). The 1851 census entry has mutilated the name of Caligvol (the old name of Port Ness) and Murdo Mcleod. John Mcleod is aged 4, and lives with his parents and siblings Norman (16), Mary (19), Cathrine (10), Donald (7) and Christian (1).  By 1891, John (by then 43) has become the sub-postmaster for Port. The names of his children are Gordon (13), Jack (11), James (9), David (7), Walter (4), Mile (10 months) and Margaret (22).

John Munro was a teacher at Lionel School, who gave evidence at the Napier Commission in Ness on 7 June 1883. He says he was born in Ross-shire, which is born out on the census return for 1881. He lives at 10 Lionel with his sister Netta, two years his junior. John Munro was 21.

John Macdonald was the witness from Knockaird in Ness, giving evidence to Lord Napier's Commission on 7 June 1883. He is 54 years of age at the time of the 1881 census, and is married to Catherine (52). The couple live at 3 Knockaird with thier children Donald (24), John (17), Malcolm (13) and Angus (21). A decade earlier, we find the family at the same location. In 1861, John (then 31) is a cod & ling fisherman, living with his brother Murdoch (28), sisters Mary (22) and Isabella (19). Also present is his wife Catherine and the first three of their children Donald (5), Angus (2) and John (2 months). John's father Malcolm (69) is living with them as well. The 1851 census shows John Macdonald (22) living at Knockaird with his father Malcolm (60) and siblings Ann (26), Murdo (16) and Isabella (10). Moving forward in time, John is living at 17 Knockaird in 1891, marked as a 65-year old retired fisherman. Living with him are his sons John and Malcolm, as well as grandson...

Glasgow Herald, 3 August 1867 I have just received an alarming piece of intelligence. When last in the Lews, a gentleman pointed out to me a hill overlooking Stornoway where a man had been hanged, the only execution, he said, that had taken place in the island. I have received information that another execution is now contemplated - that the people of the Lews, being justly indignant with me for describing the state of things amongst them, intend to gibbet me on my next visit, unless I recant. The minister of the UP Church is to head the procession, because I said that his church, as yet, was small; the Established Church clergy are to join the grim procession, because I said they had little left to do; the inhabitants are to contribute a car, because I made reference to the mud cabins, the naked children, and the women carrying the men upon their backs; the bankers and merchants are to supply the noose; and the Free Church has kindly undertaken to provide the gibbet. To be continu...

John Macdonald gave evidence to the Napier Commission during its session at Ness on 7 June 1883. He is  listed as a 57-year old crofter from South Dell. This tallies with the 1881 census record, which shows John and his wife Catherine (who is 13 years younger) and their children Donald (22), Christy (14), Peggy (10), Norman (7), Mary (4) and Ann (1). John Macdonald is listed as a mason at 23 South Dell. A decade later, we find John and Catherine at North Dell, with their daughter Margaret (Peggy is a form of Margaret) and granddaughter Jane (6). I have not been able to reliably locate John Macdonald in the censuses before 1881.

Donald Mciver gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Ness on 7 June 1883. We find him in the 1871 census as a blacksmith and crofter at Cross. He is married to Mary, of the same age (36), with their children Cathrine (9) and Donald (4). The 1881 census shows the family extended to Anne, Angus and Anabella. They live at no 14, the Manse, although a village is not specified. By 1891, Murdo has also joined the family as a child of 8. Effy Campbell occurs in the '81 and '91 censuses as Mary's mother. In 1861, Donald and Mary live at South Dell, a mile or so from Cross. A decade earlier, Donald is the 16 year old son of Angus and Anabella, with siblings Margaret (30), Sebla (29), Isabella (22), Angus (14) and Anabella (11). Donald Mciver passed away on 28 January 1894 at the age of 60. He had suffered from hemiplegia (apoplectic) for 10 months. His widow, Mary, reported the death. She passed away in 1905, aged 65.

Malcolm Mackenzie, 4 Skigersta, gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Ness on 7 June 1883.  He was a fisherman aged 69 (in 1881), married to Effie (69). Also in the house were their son Murdo (38) and his wife Catharine (26); daughter Marion (28) and granddaughter Johanna (3). Malcolm features in the 1851 census as being married to Henny, living at Skigersta. The (transcribed) entry on the census corrupts the name of the village. Their children are Norman (12), Murdo (7), Donald (5), Marion (2 months). Margaret Murray, who is Effie's mother, lives with them in 1851, aged 75. Malcolm Mackenzie died on 11 January 1885, aged 74. His parents' names are Norman and Henrietta (nee Smith). His cause of death is "supposed to be consumption". His son Donald reported the death; he was unable to write his name. Henrietta died in 1887, aged 76.

Murdo Morrison gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at its hearings in Ness on 7 June 1883. He was a wool weaver, aged 72½ according to the Report. He was living with his wife Margaret at 3 Lionel. Murdo and Margaret show up in the censuses for 1871, '81 and '91; she was a year younger than her husband. The 1891 census shows their son-in-law John Maclean (58) and daughter-in-law Christina Maclean (48) with their children Alexander (25), Donald (23), Mary (14) and Angus (9). The address in 1891 is 4 Lionel. This remains unchanged in 1901, except we no longer find Murdo's wife Margaret. His age is listed as 91 on the census. Murdo Morrison passed away only a few days after the 1901 census was taken, on the night of 31 March / 1 April 1901; he died on 16 April 1901 aged 90, the widower of Margaret (nee Gillies) who had pre-deceased him in 1897, aged 85. His parents' names were Donald and Christina (nee Maclean). Murdo's cause of death is listed as "sup...

I came across the death records of two men from Ness, which were annotated as follows: "Supposed to have died in the month of February [1885], Island of Rona". The cause of death is marked as not known; the deaths were not reported until April 30th. The two men are named as Malcolm Mcdonald, crofter, married to Mary Mcleod, usual residence Lionel, Barvas. He was aged 67, the son of Murdo and Christina Mcdonald (nee Morrison). His son John reported the death. Murdo Mckay, crofter, married to Ann Morrison, usual residence Lionel, Barvas. He was aged 57, the son of Murdo and Catherine Mckay (nee Mciver). His daughter Christina reported the death; she was unable to write her name. The Aberdeen Weekly Journal of 2 May 1885 relates what happened. Information has been received at Stornoway to the effect that two elderly Ness men who had gone to Rona Island last July - namely Malcolm McDonald and Murdo Mackay - to look after the sheep on the island, were found last week by a ...

Murdo Mackay gave evidence to Lord Napier's Commission at Ness on 7 June 1883. The 1871 census shows Murdo as a wool weaver in Cross (Barvas), aged 45. He is living with his daughter Christina (27), her husband Norman (20) and their daughter Catherine (5 months old). I have been unable to trace Murdo in earlier or later censuses. It is possible that this Murdo Mckay supposedly died on North Rona in February 1885, aged 57. He was married to Ann Morrison.

Finlay Mackenzie gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Ness on 7 June 1883. He was aged 51 in the 1881 census, married to Cathrine (41), with 8 children. He is listed as a merchant (grocer) at 9 Habost. The Napier Report quotes Finlay's village of residence as Tabost; Habost is the lenited form of Tabost. The children are named as Cathrine (18), Ann (16), Margaret (14), Donald (12), John (10), Finlay (5), Margaret (3) and Angus (4 months). A decade earlier, Finlay (noted as a sailor) was living at Cross with his parents, John (82) and Catherine (70) as well as his children Catherine (8), Ann (6), Margret (4), Donald (2) and John (1 month). In 1861, we see Finlay's wife Catherine (20) and their first child Ann (2), who died later, in 1863. Finlay's father is head of the household at that time. In 1851, we see Finlay's siblings Angus (31), Donald (24) and Ann (17); Finlay is 21 years of age. The last census entry from Finlay Mckenzie is in 1901, when he is 70 y...

Malcolm Mclean appeared before Lord Napier during the session at Ness, Lewis, on 7 June 1883. At the time he is 64 years of age, and we duly find him in the 1881 census, living at 33 Swainbost. His wife is Christina (48), and they live with their children Cathrine (27), Angus (24), Christina (20), John (14), Malcolm (12), Donald (10) and Mary (7). No further reliable references to Malcolm can be located in the census records before or after 1881.

Angus Campbell gave evidence to Lord Napier during the session at Barvas on 6 June 1883. In the 1881 census, we find him at the age of 56, living with his daughters Anne (23) and Margaret (21). In 1871, the census marks him as a tenant constable, with his daughters Christy (15), Ann (13), Maggie (11) and son Kenneth (9) in the house at North Bragar. By 1861, Angus is at North Bragar with his wife Ann, 4 years his junior, and children Christy (5), Ann (11) and Meron (2). What appears to be Angus Campbell is in the 1851 census as a cottar in North Bragar, marked on his own. In the 1891 census, Angus (now 65) remains at 28 North Bragar, with his children Kenneth and Margaret. Kenneth's wife Margaret is also there, with their children Ann (4) and Norman (2). Angus passed away on 22 June 1899 at the age of 75. He died of influenza. He was the widower of Ann Finlayson and Christina Smith. His neighbour reported his death to the registrar at Borve, which is 10 miles fr...

Norman Campbell gave evidence to Lord Napier during the session at Barvas on 6 June 1883. He spoke on behalf of the people of Arnol. I have only been able to trace him on the 1871 census, as living at Arnol. He is aged 54 at that point, married to Ann with 9 children, varying in age from 1 to 22. They are Malcolm (22), Norman (18), Ann (15), Mary (13), Christy (10), Effy (6), Donald (3) and John (1). In 1861, we also find Catherine Maclean, marked as Norman's mother. Forward in time, we find Norman and Ann at 14 Arnol in 1891, with their children Malcolm and Donald. We also find their daughter Henrietta, living with her husband Malcolm and children Ann (3 months old), Christina and Donald (both aged 7). By 1901, the family have relocated to 33 Arnol. Present at that time are Norman (84) and Ann (75), with son Malcolm and his children Christina and Donald. It should be borne in mind that the Malcolm that is marked as Norman's son in the 1901 census is more likel...

FREE CHURCHISM IN THE LEWS That this state of things should continue to exist in our own country, within two or three miles of Stornoway, and within 200 miles of Glasgow as the crow flies, seems almost incredible. Scarcely less astounding is the position and power of the clergy. It may be necessary here to state that out of Stornoway the entire mass of the population belong to the Free Church. Even in Stornoway, the Established Church is gradually emptying, and the new UP Church, though progressing, is small. But over the rest of the island the Free Church is practically the only Church; the Established churches are deserted; their ministers, some of them, like Mr Strachan of Barvas , men of high culture, have little or nothing to do; and I have heard of more than one whose Sabbath ministrations are confined to family worship at their own firesides. For want of Gaelic, I have not been able to ascertain whether the rural population, intensely Free Church as they are, have any real know...

WOMEN IN THE LEWS Some of the manners and customs of this class however, would astonish and scandalise our Social Science Reformers. The women, for instance, do all the heavy work. They dig, delve and hoe; they carry heavy loads of manure to the fields, and in the peat season you may see them all day carrying creelfuls of peat from the bog. You will often see a man trudging along the road beside a woman, but the creel is always on the woman's back. If they come to a river or ford, the woman crosses first, deposits her creel on the other side, and then returns to carry the man across. I only saw this once, but the farmers tell me it is a thing of everyday occurrence. When the creel is empty, the man sometimes slings it over his own shoulders, and then mounts upon the back of the woman, who carries them both across together. This I am told, is the only occasion on which by any chance, you see a creel on the back of a man. The woman in the rural districts here is, in fact, a beast o...

CROFTS AND CROFTERS But it is only on leaving Stornoway and penetrating into the other parts of the island that one comes on the more curious features of society here. What would you think now of naked little boys playing along the side of the public road - in puris naturalibus as we used to say in the classics? Yet I saw this only the other day within a few miles of Stornoway. The thing is rare of course, but it exists. A clergyman told me that on the way last week to the Butt of Lewis, or on his way back (I forget which), he had seen men and women in the same state of innocence. The cotter's houses too are strange habitations for the 19th century to find here. Low and moundlike, built usually of turf and covered with thatch, they give a village much the appearance of a Kaffir Kraal. Each hut has but one door or aperture by which the human beings and cattle go in and the peatsmoke tries to get out. The family sleep under one end of the roof and are sometimes separated from the lo...

SHOPS AND SHOPPING Even in Stornoway, however, there are one or two features that attract the attention of the stranger. The larger shops, though called drapers, druggists, and so on, as in the South, are more like American stores on a small scale. You will find a draper selling cutlery, and filling one of his windows with gingerbread. The grocer sells shoes, the druggist prints bills to order, and will supply you not only with drugs but with screw nails, ropes, and agricultural implements. The style of doing business to, is peculiar. A man from the country comes in to buy (let us say) a bonnet. He goes first to the draper's, and after lounging about in the shop, looking about him, and perhaps offering an occasional remark on the weather and other general subjects, as if he had no intention of making a purchase, for the people here consider the space outside of the counter to be public property, he at last approaches the business that brought him. He tries on a variety of bonnets,...

On 5 July 1867, the Glasgow Herald published an article with the above title. It touches on several aspects on life in the island. I am splitting it up into segments, for the sake of legibility. You would scarcely believe what a primitive state of things is to be found lingering in this most northerly of the Hebrides. Of course, I don't refer to Stornoway, which is a great centre of civilisation here, and is believe by the natives to stand precisely in the centre of the universe. In point of fact, it is a thriving little place, very much like any other Scotch town of its size. The houses are much the same as in the South, though building is very expensive here, the stone, wood, lime, everything almost, having to be brought by sea. The people are enterprising, intelligent and hospitable; the merchants trade and over-trade in a style that leaves nothing to be desired but money; and captivating young ladies exhibit the latest fashions in the streets and in the beautiful grounds tha...

Duncan Macleod gave evidence to the Napier Commission at Barvas on 6 June 1883. He is found with his wife Janet, both aged 61, in the 1881 census. Also found at their home is their son Angus (29, fisherman)  and Mary (21). Mary's son Malcolm Finlayson (2) and her brother Norman (19, a pupil teacher) are there as well. In the 1871 census, Duncan and Janet are clearly marked as being from South Bragar, which corroborates the entry in the Napier Report. Their children are listed as John (27), Angus (19), Sue (17), Malcolm (13), Mary (11) and Norman (9). I have been unable to trace Duncan before 1871 or after 1881; neither have I managed to find his death record.

James Strachan , the minister for Barvas, was heard by Lord Napier on 6 June 1883. He originated from Aberdeen. He is aged 53, and shown with his wife Christina A (aged 47) and their children Christina, Roderick, Cath, Peter, Joan and William. In 1871, their children are quoted as Mina Maggie, Annie Mary, Christina Jessie, Helen Nora, Roderick and Catherine Alice.  We see them again in 1861, with their eldest three children Jamima M, Annie and Christina J. The other ten occupants are domestic and other servants. In 1891, James Strachan remains as parish minister, living at the Manse in Barvas with his children Annie M, Catherine A (a teacher in the public school) and Agnes J.. Rev Strachan passed away, after a service of more than 30 years at Barvas, on 22 September 1892 aged 65, suffering from a multitude of health problems. His wife Christina (nee Reid) survived him by 28 years, passing away in 1920 at the age of 87.

John Matheson was 68 when he gave evidence to Lord Napier during his session at Barvas on 6 June 1883. In the census of 1881, we see him with his wife Margret (aged 64, like John himself at the time), with their children Donald (26) and Catherine (24). Also present is his granddaughter Mary; it is not made clear whose child she was. A decade before, John and Peggy [= Margaret], with their children William (20), Flora (18), Catherine (14) and John (12) at Upper Barvas. In 1861, another two of their children turn up on the census form, namely Ann (16) and Mary (14). These are also evidence on the 1851 census. John is aged 34, Margaret 32 at that time. Moving forward in time, John and Margaret (both aged 74) feature on the 1891 census as living at 16 Upper Barvas with their son Donald (34), daughter Mary (40) and her husband Donald (42), as well as their children Murdoch (8), John (6), Mary A (4) and Chirstina (2). John Matheson passed away on 9 December 1898 at the age of 85, son of...

Prince Alfred was the third Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, and lived from 6 August 1844 until 30 July 1900. During his long stint in the British Royal Navy, he served on HMS Raccoon as it visited Stornoway on 16 July 1863. The Wellington Indepent of 8 October 1863 carried a relayed account of the event. Her Majesty's Ship Racoon, having Prince Alfred on board, arrived at Stornoway, on a most beautiful evening, on the 16th July, soon after 8 o'clock, and the entrance of the majestic frigate to the bay was the signal for a most enthusiastic display of loyalty. The volunteers manned the battery, and fired a royal salute, the shipping dressed in the gayest of bunting, while throughout the town, and at Lews Castle, the seat of Sir James and Lady Matheson, and the picturesque eminences in the neighbourhood surrounding it, flags floated in the breeze in honor of the royal visitor. At night, the castle was brilliantly illuminated, and to the west of it, on a conspicuous hill overloo...

Donald Mcleod was a crofter and the estate constable from North Shawbost. Aged 62 at the time he gave evidence to Lord Napier at Barvas, we find him on the 1881 census living at Carnan Road (North Shawbost) with his children Peggy (22), Christina (18) and Malcolm (20). In 1871, we also see an older daughter Mary (24), with Margaret (of which Peggy is an abbreviated form), Cristy and Malcolm. Donald's wife Mary (50) also features. Donald is reported to have died in 1897 at the age of 78.

John Nicolson was 69 years of age when he spoke at the Commission's session in Barvas on 6 June 1883. He gave evidence on behalf of the people of New Shawbost. He is easily traced on the 1881 census as a 68-year old drover from New Shawbost (or Park Road), married to Catherine (56) and with daughter Ann (17). In 1871, they appear on the census form with daughters Catherin (16) and Ann (8). John cannot be located on earlier censuses, using the information available. John Nicolson passed away on 28 March 1886 at the age of 70, having suffered ill health of unknown description for 14 days. His parents' names are given as Nicol and Anne (nee Maciver). His wife Catherine (nee Macaulay) survived him by 9 years, passing away in 1895 aged 73.

CALEDONIAN MERCURY 1 AUGUST 1812 (issue 14137) STORNOWAY - JULY 22. Yesterday exhibited a very unusual display of gaiety and festivity in this place, in honour of the anniversary of the birth-day of the Honourable William Mackenzie of Seaforth, when he completed the 21st year of his age. In the forenoon of the day, all the ships in the roads and harbour hoisted their colours to very great effect; andc the principal tenants from all parts of this extensive country (the sole property of the noble family of Seaforth,) together with the ministers of the parishes of Stornoway and [Barvas], having joined the feuars and most respectable part of the inhabitants of the town, a plentiful dinner, which had been previously ordered, was served up at Morison's inn, to which upwards of 70 gentlemen sat down. After the usual loyal toasts had been given and drank, the toasts expressive of the cause and nature of the meeting were given in succession, which were drank by every possible demonstrati...

The evidence heard by Lord Napier's Commission in the Hebrides was relayed by the press, and gave rise to further agitation and representation elsewhere in the Highlands and Islands. The below article, printed four weeks after Lord Napier's first session at Braes (see previous post) showed two examples: one from Easter Ross, the other from Orkney. The Commission sat at Sanday in July 1883 , and at Dingwall in October 1883 . ABERDEEN WEEKLY 2 JUNE 1883 THE ROSS-SHIRE CROFTERS A meeting of the crofters in the Strathpeffer district was held at Fodderty on Tuesday. Mr Gray, Heights of Auchternend, presided. Mr John Gillanders, crofter, Duran, proposed the first resolution, which called upon the Government to take measures for the abolition of deer forests and the breaking up of large farms into smaller holdings. The motion was seconded by Mr John Campbell, crofter, Strathpeffer, and agree to. Mr M'Lennan, Bottacks, moved that compensation be granted for all unexhausted imp...

GLASGOW HERALD 9 MAY 1883 THE HIGHLAND CROFTERS' COMMISSION MEETING AT THE BRAES (FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT) Portree, Tuesday The Royal Commission appointed to inquire into the condition of the crofters and cottars of the Highlands and islands began its sittings today at the Braes. The Commissioners drove from Portree, and reached the school-house, in which the meeting was held, shortly before eleven o'clock. A large number of crofters from the neighbourhood assembled on the road and witnessed with evident interest the arrival of the Commissioners. Before the public were admitted to the school-house, the Commissioners held a consultation in private, and arranged a few preliminary points as to the order of procedure to be adopted. As the doors were opened, at a quarter past eleven, the room, which holds about 200 persons, was immediately filled. Lord Napier of Ettrick, the Chairman of the Commission, presided, and there were present all the other Commissioners - viz,...

Today, 5th May 2011, it was announced that the last surviving veteran of the First World War, Claude Choules , has died in Australia, aged 110. The last veterans from Great Britain, France and Germany have all passed away in the last few years. The Great War has now passed into history, in that no one is left alive who went through it, but its repercussions continue to date.

Malcolm Mcphail gave evidence to Lord Napier during the Commission's session at Barvas on 6 June 1883. He represented the people of South Shawbost. In the 1881 census, there are two men named Malcolm Mcphail in the Carloway district, but the corresponding records in the 1871 census confirm that it was Malcolm Mcphail of South Shawbost, married to Anne, who had spoken to Lord Napier. He was a crofter, aged 65 in 1881, with a wife aged 70. A decade earlier, we find the couple with their children Mary (29) and Murdo (a sub teacher, aged 20). In 1861, we also find sons John (15) and Robert (13). The family is found complete in the 1851 census, although their ages do not correspond to a passage of 10 years. Malcolm and Anne first appear in the census of 1841, aged 25 and 30, with their eldest child, Mary, aged 1. In 1891, we find Malcolm and Ann at Uig Manse, as a retired crofter. They are living with their son John (47) and daughter Mary (49). Also present is John's niece Cat...

James Smith of Canada kindly provided me with the above image (and information), showing the pipes and drums of the 46th battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (more fully: 46th Canadian Infantry (Saskatchewan Regiment)). The image was taken between 4th and 24th July 1917 at Hersin-Coupigny, France. The pipeband played there for the King on 11 July 1917. They are wearing the Royal Stewart tartan. Two pipers are from Lewis: John Smith of 15 Melbost and William Finlayson of 24 Aird Tong. The 46th was known as the Suicide Battalion, as it lost 1,433 killed and 3,484 wounded - a casualty rate of 91.5 percent I list the names and details of the men, shown in the picture. BACK ROW (left to right) 1. Private piper William McGeachin Reg. no: 426555 Born: Bridge of Allan, 1894 Trade / occupation: Teamster Enlisted: 9 April 1915 at Regina Left regiment, wounded: August 1918 2. Private piper James Logan  Reg. no: 427723 Born: Shotts, Lanarkshire, 1888 Trade / occupation: Mi...

A few notes on the witnesses that were heard in Breasclete. The census records for the witnesses from the Carloway area are all marked as being in the parish of Lochs - in spite of the fact that Carloway is formally in the parish of Uig. Lochs is at least 15 miles away to the southeast. Witness Murdo Mcleod , Borrowston, could not be traced in the censuses, as far as I could make out. EDIT: As pointed out in a comment by Angus S below and by fellow blogger Direcleit , Carloway was a detached area of Lochs Parish (see this transcript of the Gazetteer of Scotland on ceuig.com ).

Angus Paterson gave evidence at Breasclete on behalf of the people of Kirivick. We find him on the 1881 census, aged 54, living with his wife Mary (56). We can trace this couple back to 1861 - they do not appear to have had any children. Angus himself turns up in 1841 as a 15-year old in Tolstachaolais. He is staying with a family of Macaskills at the time. Angus Paterson died on 15 May 1885 at the age of 58 "supposed to be asthma" - the death record is not too clear. He is survived by his wife Mary Mcgregor, who passed away in 1900 at the age of 75.

Norman Morrison from Knock, Carloway, gave evidence to Lord Napier at Breasclete. He was aged 52 at the time, and he is easily traceable on the 1881 census. We find him there as a crofter in Knock, married to Christy (39) with their family of 7 children, varying in ages from 1 to 15. Although listed as a crofter in '81, the 1871 census lists his occupation as grocer and crofter. In 1891, his household comprises of 14 people. Norman (60), his wife Christy (47) and five of their children. From the 1901 census, we learn that Norman was in fact born at Dalmore, a mile or so east of Carloway on the coast. At the time, he is aged 71, and lives with Christy (59), two of his children and two grandchildren. Norman Morrison passed away on 16 November 1909 aged 80. He had been suffering from heart disease for three years. His parents' names are given as Donald and Mary (nee Macleod). His wife Christina (nee Maciver) died in 1929, aged 87.

The Napier Commission appears to have galvanised the crofters of the Highlands and Islands, and a degree of civil disobedience became evident in the following months and years. On Wednesday 10 December 1884, The Leeds Mercury reports on two incidents, both related to the land question, which underpins Lord Napier's commission. THE ATTITUDE OF THE SKYE CROFTERS PORTREE, Tuesday [9 December 1884] So far as the naval and military forces are concerned, their operations in Skye may be declared at an end; but the attitude which the crofters have taken up on the rent question during the last few days greatly complicates the situation in the island. At meeting after meeting they have resolved to pay no rent to the proprietors, and, in point of fact, the resolutions have been carried into effect, for in a large number of townships the crofters have declined to pay. RESISTANCE BY THE LEWIS CROFTERS STORNOWAY, Tuesday Night [9 December 1884] Mr George Nicholson, Messenger-at-Arms, Ed...

The entry for Angus Macdonald on Faces from the Lewis War Memorial elicited this comment: Angus MacDonald of 15 Shader point was my great grand uncle, his nephew M MacDonald is 83 with a memory longer than an elephant's! The SS Bronwen was sunk on the 24 Sep 1916 by the German submarine U-35 (Lothar von Arnauld de la Perière), 25 miles NxE of .Dragonera Island [off Mallorca]. The Bronwen was carrying a load of coal from Barry to Marseilles. He was taken POW to POW station Salzerbad, Austria. He developed TB and following his release at the end of the war and was hospitalized in Le Havre where he died 27 Nov 1918. The correspondent sent me a handful of pictures, which I would like to share in this post. A letter from Angus, which he sent from the POW camp in the summer of 1918 was also sent to me, and a photograph will hopefully follow later. It is a great sadness to his family that Angus died whilst on his way home from the POW camp. Gravestone in the Ste Marie Cem...

The Outer Hebrides were lashed by a severe storm on this day, 114 years ago, and the start of the herring fishing was delayed by the storm. Nonetheless, the fishermen of the Bishops Isles (south of Barra) were out to make a living from the sea. The Mingulay boat weathered the storm and returned home safely. The boat from Pabbay would never return. The Aberdeen Weekly Journal of 12 May 1897 carried the following article: SUPPOSED LOSS OF WEST COAST FISHING BOAT Five men drowned The fishing boat Lizzie , CY 114, belonging to Pabbay Island (Barra) while prosecuting the cod and ling fishing near Mingulay on Saturday last, is supposed to have foundered with all hands. It is feared the supposition was only too true as the weather on that date was very stormy and the boat was a small craft which carried a crew of five, three of whom were married. The following are the names: [...] Morrison, leaves a widow and three of a family; Alexander Morrison, a widow and one of a family; D. McNeil...