After the surprise acquisition of Charles Waddie's 'How Scotland Lost Her Parliament' (1891) - which we've since republished - I went in search of publications by another of the authors featured, due to their correspondence to the newspapers of the time, in our publication 'Treaty of Union Articles' (2019), the Rev. David Macrae. He was … Continue reading ‘Book of Blunders’ (1883)
Category: Scottish History
Pre-1900 book collection comprising of Scottish history, literature, poetry, lithographs, newspapers, photographs, &c.
‘Sketch Book of the North’ (1896)
This is a nice collection of miscellany from George Eyre-Todd made up of short wee stories and anecdotes. This publication was mentioned by the author in an article for 'Scots Lore' referring to Bonnie Prince Charles' mistress Jeanie Cameron. There appeared to have been some debate as to whether she had returned to Scotland, after … Continue reading ‘Sketch Book of the North’ (1896)
‘A History of the Scottish People’ (1894)
The Maps of early Scottish territories got quite the look-in when posted to the site about a week ago. At that point I only had volume 1 of this set, from which the maps came, but went to try and find an affordable set. Here they are. I love the choice of binding. The books … Continue reading ‘A History of the Scottish People’ (1894)
‘How Scotland Lost Her Parliament’ (1891)
'How Scotland Lost Her Parliament' (1891) Orkney News Review iScot PocketMag Kindle Paperback For Those Looking to Avoid Dealing with Amazon Click Here to Pay by Paypal [Please DON’T tick for goods or services – this means Paypal take a cut & I've to make up the remainder.] Please Ensure You also Contact … Continue reading ‘How Scotland Lost Her Parliament’ (1891)
Note G, pp.145-146.
It being impossible to deny the injustice of England having 465 votes to Scotland’s 72 in all measure relating to Scotland alone, a pleasing fiction has been diligently spread abroad as to the magnanimity of the English members. It is stated that it is the habit of English members to pay such deference to Scotch … Continue reading Note G, pp.145-146.
Note F, pp.143-144.
Protest of the Scottish Home Rule Association against the present policy of Official Liberals towards Scotland. I. The proposal to grant a Legislature and Executive Government to Ireland, and withhold them from Scotland is unjust to a loyal, industrious, patient, and intelligent people, and appears to set a premium upon disorder. II. If … Continue reading Note F, pp.143-144.
Note E, pp.133-143.
The following extracts from an article by Sir Archibald Alison the well-known historian will show what kind of Parliament Scotland lost, and whether we have good cause to lament the want of power to manage our own affairs. ‘A proper settlement of the Tithe question, and a distribution of the property of the church, … Continue reading Note E, pp.133-143.
Note D, pp.132-133.
We have avoided in the body of this work referring to the case of Ireland, as although she yields a poor revenue, perhaps she pays as much as she is able to bear. But it is curious to find so many references to the wrongs of Ireland, and none to those of Scotland. We find … Continue reading Note D, pp.132-133.
Note C, pp.131-132.
It is rather a large assumption that Scotland would never have possessed colonies but for her connection with England. Had she remained a separate nation, there can be little doubt that the well-known enterprise of her people would have secured for her an honourable place in the colonial world. The most successful competitors with England … Continue reading Note C, pp.131-132.
Note B, pp.126-131.
The text of the Act of Parliament for securing the Church of Scotland from being interfered with by the British Parliament, which we give below, has a peculiar significance at this time, when a cry for disestablishment receives a noisy support from a portion of our people. It will be seen that while the English … Continue reading Note B, pp.126-131.
Note A, pp.103-126.
ACT RATIFYING AND APPROVING THE TREATY OF THE TWO KINGDOMS OF SCOTLAND AND ENGLAND. January 16, 1707. The Estates of Parliament considering that articles of Union of the Kingdoms of Scotland and England were Agreed on the 22nd of July 1706 years, by the commissioners nominated on behalf of this kingdom, under Her Majesty's … Continue reading Note A, pp.103-126.
Chapter X., pp.90-102.
The Causes of the Formation of the Map of Europe - Patriotism - Constitutional rights of a Nation - The Principle of National and Federal Government - Administrative and Executive Powers - Private Bills - Examples of Public and Private Bills - Powers of the Federal Government - Raising of the Scottish Standard and the … Continue reading Chapter X., pp.90-102.
Chapter IX., pp.81-89.
The rise of Scotland’s prosperity - Free Education - Literary activity of Scotsmen - Scottish Philosophy - Invention of the Steam Engine, Coal Gas, Steam Navigation, Macadamised Roads - Prosperity due to the genius of her sons. A MORE pleasing task is now set before us in this chapter - that is, to trace … Continue reading Chapter IX., pp.81-89.
Chapter VIII., pp.74-80.
Contention in Scotch Parliament for light taxation - Inequalities of taxation - Examples of overtaxation during the last thirty years - Loss on Government expenditure - The Union a financial loss to Scotland. THE financial aspect of the Union of 1707 is certainly not the least important chapter in the series of events recorded … Continue reading Chapter VIII., pp.74-80.
Chapter VII., pp.58-73.
The state of the Highlands after 1745 - The lands of the people confiscated - Sheep farms bring about first clearances - Example of tyranny - Sutherland clearances - Evil effect of the new Poor Law - Deer forests and grouse moors depopulate the country. THE lesson which the Highlanders gave the English Government … Continue reading Chapter VII., pp.58-73.
Chapter VI., pp.48-57.
Review of the state of Scotland during the latter half of the Eighteenth century - Forfeited Estates - State of Agriculture - Poverty of the people - The Dear Years - Degraded political condition of the people - Corruption and tyranny of the Bench - State Trials. AFTER the harvest of blood the Government … Continue reading Chapter VI., pp.48-57.
Chapter V., pp.43-47.
The Battle of Prestonpans - March into England - Retreat from Derby - Battle of Falkirk - Defeat of Prince Charles at Culloden - Character of Cumberland - His Cruelty - Trial and Execution of the Rebels. SHORTLY after the events recorded in our last chapter the battle of Prestonpans was fought, when Sir … Continue reading Chapter V., pp.43-47.
Chapter IV., pp.31-42.
Gloom and Despondency of the Scots after the Union - Trouble with Customs and Excise - Poverty and Bankruptcy of Edinburgh Merchants - Contemptuous Treatment of Scotland’s Representatives - Trouble in the Church - Jacobite Rebellion - Prince Charles takes Edinburgh. A DEEP-SETTLED gloom fell upon Scotland after the passing of the Act of … Continue reading Chapter IV., pp.31-42.
Chapter III., pp.18-30.
The Protests of the National Party against the Treaty - Extracts from Lord Belhaven’s famous speech - Duke of Hamilton’s protest - Lockhart of Carnwath and Duke of Athole’s protests - Black-List of the bribed - Examples of true Scots. LORD BELHAVEN made a strong protest in the Scottish Parliament against the Treaty. In … Continue reading Chapter III., pp.18-30.
Chapter II., pp.10-17.
Indignation of the Scots at the terms of the Union - Petition of the Convention of Royal Burghs against it - Tumult in Glasgow and Dumfries - Soldiers called in to overawe the people. IT is impossible to overstate the storm of indignation that burst over Scotland when the terms of the Union were … Continue reading Chapter II., pp.10-17.
Chapter I., pp.1-9.
The State of Scotland previous to the Union and what led up to the departure of Commissioners to negotiate a Union with England. IT is somewhat surprising that a people so generally well informed as the Scots should be so ignorant of that great charter of their country, the Treaty of Union. Yet so … Continue reading Chapter I., pp.1-9.
Introduction, pp.v-vii.
IN the early part of 1882 our attention was drawn to the subject of which this little work treats. The attempts of the English Courts to found jurisdiction over domiciled Scotsmen was creating some considerable stir in the country, and every now and then reference was made to the Treaty of Union. As they were … Continue reading Introduction, pp.v-vii.
‘How Scotland Lost Her Parliament and what came of it’ (1891)
This is a publication, one of many, that I've been dying to get my hands on. Our anonymous Patron has stepped in and made it happen! We're very excited here at RSH to find out what he has in store for us. It came to my attention during the 'Treaty of Union Articles' (2019) research. … Continue reading ‘How Scotland Lost Her Parliament and what came of it’ (1891)
Scotland’s Elusive Unicorns
A few conversations on Twitter going on about Scotland's unicorns and why they're chained. I had previously asked my late friend Harry, see 09/04/2018 @ 23:17, about Scotland's having taken on the unicorn as the national animal. He was a heraldry professor & fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, but couldn't tell me … Continue reading Scotland’s Elusive Unicorns
Maps of Scotland in 850 & 1066 C.E., Showing Tribal Populations/Kingdoms
These go with the recently uploaded article, from the 'Scottish Review,' The Peoples of Ancient Scotland. They're taken from a book that I'll no doubt upload soon for those home-schooling during the pandemic, 'A History of the Scottish People' (1893), by the Rev. Thomas Thomson. High- Resolution Version Rev. T. Thomson (1893), 'A History … Continue reading Maps of Scotland in 850 & 1066 C.E., Showing Tribal Populations/Kingdoms
Art. VIII. – BEGINNINGS OF THE SCOTTISH NEWSPAPER PRESS.,Vol. 21, Apr., 1893, pp.399-419.
HAVING shown how Scotland came to possess a newspaper press, which dared scarce venture beyond a slavish reproduction of English originals,1 I have now to describe with what slow and hesitating steps a native journalism emerged. It is a day of small things - of feeble aspirations and endeavours meeting with almost instant overthrow - … Continue reading Art. VIII. – BEGINNINGS OF THE SCOTTISH NEWSPAPER PRESS.,Vol. 21, Apr., 1893, pp.399-419.
Art III. – EARLY SCOTTISH BURGHS., Vol. 2, May, 1883, pp.45-70.
Ancient Laws and Customs of the Burghs of Scotland, A.D., 1124-1424. Edinburgh, 1868. Charters and Other Documents Relating to the City of Edinburgh, A.D, 1143-1540. Edinburgh, 1871. Charters and Documents Relating to the Burgh of Peebles, A.D. 1165-1621. Edinburgh, 1872. Charters and Documents relating to the City of Glasgow, A.D. 1175-1648. Edinburgh, 1883. THESE and … Continue reading Art III. – EARLY SCOTTISH BURGHS., Vol. 2, May, 1883, pp.45-70.
Art. III. – THE PEOPLES OF ANCIENT SCOTLAND., Vol. 17, Jan., 1891, pp.60-82.
Being the Fourth Rhind Lecture. IN this lecture it is proposed to make an attempt to understand the position of the chief peoples beyond the Forth at the dawn of the history of this country, and to follow that down sketchily to the organization of the kingdom of Alban. This last part of the task … Continue reading Art. III. – THE PEOPLES OF ANCIENT SCOTLAND., Vol. 17, Jan., 1891, pp.60-82.
Art. V. – SCOTTISH ORIGIN OF THE MERLIN MYTH., Vol. 20, Oct., 1892, pp.321-337.
THERE is already so much poetry and romance associated with the very name of the old Scottish Borderland that it seems superfluous in these days to seek to revive a claim which the Borderland, with its thousand and one mediaeval memories, has allowed to drop, namely, that of being the real cradle of Arthurian romance. … Continue reading Art. V. – SCOTTISH ORIGIN OF THE MERLIN MYTH., Vol. 20, Oct., 1892, pp.321-337.
Art. VII. – THE PHILOSOPHY OF STUPIDITY, Vol 6, Oct., 1885. pp.323-333.
AMONG ordinary human failings we doubt if there be one which so sorely taxes the patience and forbearance of all who are forced into constant association with it as stupidity. Most of those defects of character or disposition whereby human beings contrive to render themselves moral blisters to their fellow creatures are intermittent, stupidity is … Continue reading Art. VII. – THE PHILOSOPHY OF STUPIDITY, Vol 6, Oct., 1885. pp.323-333.
Art. II. – THE SCOTTISH LANGUAGE., Vol. 4, Jul., 1884, pp.30-61.
An Etymological Dictionary of the Scottish Language. By JOHN JAMIESON, D.D. New Edition. Edited by J. LONGMUIR, M.A., LL.D., and DAVID DONALDSON, F.E.I.S. Four vols. Paisley, 1879—1882. The Kingis Quair. By KING JAMES I. of Scotland. Edited by the Rev. W. W. SKEAT, M.A. Edinburgh and London, 1884. Scottish History and Literature to the period … Continue reading Art. II. – THE SCOTTISH LANGUAGE., Vol. 4, Jul., 1884, pp.30-61.
Art. IV. – THE CALDWELL PAPERS., vol. 7, Apr., 1886, pp.286-303.
Selections from the Family Papers preserved at Caldwell. Three volumes. Privately printed. Paisley: 1883-85. THE re-issue of this valuable series of Family Papers deserves more than a passing mention. Since their original publication by the Maitland Club, now upwards of thirty years ago, copies of them have become exceedingly scarce, and it is only at … Continue reading Art. IV. – THE CALDWELL PAPERS., vol. 7, Apr., 1886, pp.286-303.
Art. I. – HOME RULE FOR SCOTLAND., Vol. 8, Jul., 1886, pp.1-20.
HOME Rule is in the air. We live in an age when decentralization in government is preferred to centralisation. The tendency of the age is thoroughly healthy. It does not arise so much from a reaction against the somewhat refined notions of central government that have prevailed now for some time, as from the impotency … Continue reading Art. I. – HOME RULE FOR SCOTLAND., Vol. 8, Jul., 1886, pp.1-20.
Art. I. – ON THE JURISDICTION OF THE ENGLISH COURTS OVER SCOTSMEN., Vol. 9, Jan., 1887, pp.1-31.
BOTH in past and present times many varying views have been taken of the Treaty of Union; some agree with that conceited and sententious individual Andrew Fairservice, who attributed to the ‘sad and sorrowful Union’ every symptom of depravity or degeneracy which he remarked among his countrymen, ‘more especially the inflammation of reckonings and the … Continue reading Art. I. – ON THE JURISDICTION OF THE ENGLISH COURTS OVER SCOTSMEN., Vol. 9, Jan., 1887, pp.1-31.
Art. I. – THE UNION OF 1707 VIEWED FINANCIALLY, Vol. 10, Oct., 1887, pp.213-234.
SUCH a difficulty as exists, or till partially removed by the prevalence of widespread agricultural depression, did exist in getting disciples of the school of the late Richard Cobden, and the late Radical but now quasi-conservative John Bright, to listen to any facts, figures, or fancies, which in the most distant manner attacked the principles … Continue reading Art. I. – THE UNION OF 1707 VIEWED FINANCIALLY, Vol. 10, Oct., 1887, pp.213-234.
‘Scottish Review’ (1886-1898)
I'll start this one with a wee bit about the Random Scottish History collection. I'll choose a book to type up and upload in order to be searchable with scans of whatever related illustrations accompany the text, in order to make these old, sometimes out of print books, easily accessible to those seeking the information. … Continue reading ‘Scottish Review’ (1886-1898)
Art. VIII. – PARLIAMENT IN SCOTLAND, Oct., 1889, Vol. 14, pp.399-416.
SOME time ago, Mr. Mitchell, the Treasurer of the Scottish Home Rule Association, wrote to me with regard to the publication of certain pamphlets. These pamphlets all related more or less to the general subject of Home Rule, and they certainly embodied the personal opinions of divers members of the Association, although it could not … Continue reading Art. VIII. – PARLIAMENT IN SCOTLAND, Oct., 1889, Vol. 14, pp.399-416.
Statutes of Icolmkill / Iona
“The Government had several modes of dealing with the feuds and unruly habits of the Highlanders,.. Sometimes, as in the Lowlands, authority was given by the Government to one party to make private was on another..; in other instances, the Crown entered into an arrangement with Argyle in the south-west, and with Huntly in the … Continue reading Statutes of Icolmkill / Iona
Chapter XVI; Conclusion, pp.159-160.
1. In the social condition of the Scottish nation, from the reign of James I. to the union of the crowns, there was many an ebb and flow, but on the whole there was progress. James I. tried to enforce the laws and to curb the power of the nobles, and lost his life … Continue reading Chapter XVI; Conclusion, pp.159-160.
Chapter XV; James VI., 1567-1603, 38 Years, pp.144-158.
Accession of James VI., 1567 The Regent Moray shot, 1570 Death of Lennox, 1571 Death of the Regent Mar, 1572 … Continue reading Chapter XV; James VI., 1567-1603, 38 Years, pp.144-158.
Chapter XIV; Mary Queen of Scots (Continued), 1560-1567, 7 Years, pp.125-143.
Mary returns to Scotland, 1561 The queen marries Lord Darnley, 1565 Murder of Rizzio, 1566 … Continue reading Chapter XIV; Mary Queen of Scots (Continued), 1560-1567, 7 Years, pp.125-143.
Chapter XIII; Mary Queen of Scots, 1542-1560, 18 Years, pp.109-124.
Accession of Mary Queen of Scots, 1542 Hertford burns Edinburgh, 1544 Hertford’s second expedition, … Continue reading Chapter XIII; Mary Queen of Scots, 1542-1560, 18 Years, pp.109-124.
Chapter XII; James V., 1513-1542, 29 Years, pp.96-109.
Accession of James V., 1513 The king’s mother marries Angus, 1514 Albany made Regent, 1515 Albany retires to France, 1517 Skirmish of “Cleanse the Causeway,” 1520 Albany comes back from France, 1520 Albany brings troops from France, 1523 Albany finally leaves … Continue reading Chapter XII; James V., 1513-1542, 29 Years, pp.96-109.
Chapter XI; James IV., 1488-1513, 25 Years, pp.86-96.
Accession of James IV., 1488 Aberdeen University founded, 1494 Perkin Warbeck comes to … Continue reading Chapter XI; James IV., 1488-1513, 25 Years, pp.86-96.
Chapter X; James III., 1460-1488, 28 Years, pp.77-85.
Accession of James III., 1460 Death of Bishop Kennedy, 1465 … Continue reading Chapter X; James III., 1460-1488, 28 Years, pp.77-85.
Chapter IX; James II., 1437-1460, 23 Years, pp.68-77.
Accession of James II., 1437 Douglas and his brother put to death, 1440 The king marries Mary, daughter of the Duke of Gueldres, 1449 The king kills Douglas in Stirling Castle, 1452 Death of James II., … Continue reading Chapter IX; James II., 1437-1460, 23 Years, pp.68-77.
Chapter VIII; Condition of the Country During the Fourteenth and Beginning of the Fifteenth Century, pp.62-68.
1. The appearance of the country and the social condition of its inhabitants greatly changed during the eventful period, of about 150 years, that elapsed between the death of Alexander III. and the murder of James I. During the war of independence waged by Wallace and Bruce, the exile and captivity of David II., … Continue reading Chapter VIII; Condition of the Country During the Fourteenth and Beginning of the Fifteenth Century, pp.62-68.
Chapter VII; James I, 1406-1437, 31 years, pp.53-62.
John Reseby burned at Perth, 1408 Battle of Harlaw, 1411 St. Andrews University founded, 1413 Death of the Regent Albany, 1419 The Scots in France win the Battle of Baugè, … Continue reading Chapter VII; James I, 1406-1437, 31 years, pp.53-62.
Chapter VI; Robert III., 1390-1406, 16 years, pp.46-52.
Wolf of Badenoch burns Elgin Cathedral, 1391 Battle of Gasklune, 1392 Battle of the Clans at Perth, … Continue reading Chapter VI; Robert III., 1390-1406, 16 years, pp.46-52.
Chapter V; Robert II., 1370-1390, 20 years, pp.39-45.
Truce for two years adjusted, 1383 Sir John De Vienne’s expedition to Scotland, 1385 Battle of Otterburn, … Continue reading Chapter V; Robert II., 1370-1390, 20 years, pp.39-45.
Chapter IV; David II., 1329-1370, 41 years, pp.32-39.
David II. crowned at Scone, 1331 Randolph, the Regent, dies, 1332 Battle of Dupplin - David and his queen sent to France, 1332 Battle of Halidon Hill, and recovery of Berwick by … Continue reading Chapter IV; David II., 1329-1370, 41 years, pp.32-39.
Chapter III; King Robert the Bruce, 1314-1329, 15 years, pp.26-32.
Edward Bruce goes to Ireland, 1315 He is crowned King of Ireland, 1316 He is killed at … Continue reading Chapter III; King Robert the Bruce, 1314-1329, 15 years, pp.26-32.
Chapter II; King Robert the Bruce, 1306-1315, 9 years, pp.13-26.
Revolt of Robert Bruce, his flight to Scotland, and murder of Comyn, 1306 Battle of Methven, … Continue reading Chapter II; King Robert the Bruce, 1306-1315, 9 years, pp.13-26.
‘A History of Scotland’ (1881)
This is a very beaten-up copy of Blackie's 'A History of Scotland' but it has good, condensed, information. It fits a lot into a wee publication. I started backwards with this one, having taken its maps for the Maps from Books section and the RSH Maps Gallery. I figured it would be useful to upload … Continue reading ‘A History of Scotland’ (1881)
Chapter I; Introduction, pp.8-13.
1. The History of Scotland, previous to the reign of Robert Bruce, is involved in much obscurity. We know, however, that the Romans first appeared in Scotland about the year 80 B.C., that they were opposed by the Caledonians, whom, in the year 85, they defeated in the battle of Mons Grampius, and against … Continue reading Chapter I; Introduction, pp.8-13.
Preface, p.2.
THIS Book forms a brief but complete HISTORY OF SCOTLAND to the Union of the Crowns; and is adapted for use in all classes of schools, both public and private. It has been objected to the small histories in common use that they are too meagre to be interesting. On the other hand one of … Continue reading Preface, p.2.
Armin’s ‘Nest of Ninnies’ – Jemmy Camber
The World, wanton sick, as one surfetting on sinne (in morning pleasures, noone banquets, after riots, night moriscoes, midnights modicoms, and abundance of trash trickt up to all turbulent reuellings) is now leaning on her elbow, deuising what doctour may deliver her, what phisicke may free her, and what antidotes may antissipate so dangerous … Continue reading Armin’s ‘Nest of Ninnies’ – Jemmy Camber
Maps showing the Battles of Bannockburn (1314), Flodden (1513), and Pinkie Cleugh (1547).
This is actually an excellent wee book that's too easily overlooked in the collection, mostly for its size. It's a Student's History of Scotland and seems fairly comprehensive considering how small it is,. So I may put this one aside to upload to the site soon. These maps are fantastic wee illustrations of these three … Continue reading Maps showing the Battles of Bannockburn (1314), Flodden (1513), and Pinkie Cleugh (1547).
‘History of Glasgow’ (1830)
So this came through my door in October of 2018, see the Updates, with no note attached or return address. No-one ever claimed responsibility for having sent it and therefore I didn't really feel I could claim ownership. It's been a wee while now though and so I thought I'd finally scan in some of … Continue reading ‘History of Glasgow’ (1830)
Vellum Affidavit of Heirship (1853)
So I obtained an interesting thing. It's a deed confirming John Baxter as the heir of James Baxter. It was pretty difficult to decipher and any remaining "[?]"s were left after the old eyes started hurting from staring at the words too long. It's handwritten in ink on vellum, which is so transparent I had … Continue reading Vellum Affidavit of Heirship (1853)
January 1904
FATAL ACCIDENT AT KITTYBREWSTER STATION. ————— MAN’S BODY FOUND ON THE LINE. ————— Last night a distressing fatality occurred at Kittybrewster Station, the body of a man having been found lying between the rails on the up-line at the north end of the platform. The body was discovered a few minutes after ten … Continue reading January 1904
‘Poetical Works of the Ettrick Shepherd’ (1838)
I love this wee set of books. The illustrations are great but the author has a style about him that makes me want to read more. They're a bit battered, not to falling apart, but the spines have faded away and the pages, as you can see, are super foxed and have dark stains all … Continue reading ‘Poetical Works of the Ettrick Shepherd’ (1838)
December 1903
RAILWAY ACCIDENT. - About half-past eight last night, a somewhat serious accident occurred on the Caledonian Railway near Whifflet Station. It seems that a Pole, residing in Langloan, whose name were unable to ascertain prior to going to press, had been knocked down by a passing train and rendered unconscious. The man was removed … Continue reading December 1903
November 1903
Mishap to Railway Guard. - Yesterday morning a rather unfortunate accident befel Andrew Wilson, a guard in the employment of the North British Railway Company, residing in Edinburgh. Wilson was guard on the train that arrives at Dundee Tay Bridge Station about half-past ten. At Cupar-Fife a horsebox was attached to the train, and … Continue reading November 1903
October 1903
ACCIDENT. - At Croy Station on Saturday evening on the arrival of the 7.2 p.m. train, Matthew Burns, settmaker, Condorrat, fell from the train as it drew alongside the platform. When picked up he was bleeding profusely from a cut behind the left ear, while he seemed otherwise to have sustain3ed considerable injury. Dr … Continue reading October 1903
‘Scottish Chiefs’ (1840)
This is a rather battered copy of 'Scottish Chiefs,' but the illustrations within are great and will be uploaded along with their respective chapters, when I get round to it. I think these books will make for a really interesting read and I was surprised to see it was authored by a English female historian, … Continue reading ‘Scottish Chiefs’ (1840)
‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
I'm surprised this publication hasn't made it into any site posts yet. It's helped me out a lot in the past. These volumes gives an alphabetically listed city-by-city, town-by-town, account of Scotland. I've almost done a couple of projects based around the information in these books but other, more pressing, projects were taken on instead. … Continue reading ‘Gazetteer of Scotland’ (1847)
September 1903
HORRIBLE AFFAIR IN DUNDEE. ————— DETERMINED SUICIDE ON THE RAILWAY. ————— MAN CUT TO PIECES. Another railway tragedy took place on the Caledonian Railway line at the west end of Dundee this morning. The decapitated remains of a middle-aged man were found lying between the lines in the early hours of the morning. … Continue reading September 1903
August 1903
“I dinna want to dee yet!”
July 1903
RAILWAY ACCIDENT. - On Friday night, about seven o’clock, an accident occurred on the railway near the Industry Street bridge. A mineral train was coming past the Meiklehill siding when the engine left the rails at the south cross-over points. Fortunately the train was proceeding at a slow pace, and it was only the … Continue reading July 1903
June 1903
FATAL RAILWAY ACCIDENT NEAR LEITH. - On Saturday evening, shortly after seven o’clock, a man about forty-five years of age was killed by a goods train on the North British Railway Company’s Leith-Portobello line. He died within a few minutes of being knocked over by the train. The body was removed to the Leith … Continue reading June 1903
May 1903
SERIOUS ACCIDENT AT WEMYSS BAY. ————— LAST night, between five and six o’clock, a distressing accident occurred at Wemyss Bay Railway Station, which resulted in the deaths of two workmen and severe injury to other seven. The accident occurred to a train by which the workmen engaged at the rebuilding of Wemyss Bay Station … Continue reading May 1903
April 1903
FALL FROM A DEESIDE TRAIN. ————— On Monday Alex. Masson (40), farm servant, Peterculter, who was a passenger by the 10.45 Deeside suburban train, met with a serious accident at Pitfodels Station. Masson had booked for Cults, and when the train started from Pitfodels he imagined that he had missed his destination. He accordingly … Continue reading April 1903
March 1903
COWLAIRS TUNNEL. ————— IMPORTANT EXPERIMENTS. A Glasgow correspondent writes:- Travellers to Glasgow by the North British Railway are well aware that the getting in and out of Queen Street Station by way of Cowlairs Tunnel is a most tedious affair, and the information that changes are in progress which will improve matters has on … Continue reading March 1903
February 1903
HIGHLAND RAILWAY SMASH. ————— TRAIN COMPLETELY WRECKED. ————— Marvellous Escape of Passengers. ————— POINTSMAN’S COOLNESS AVERTS DISASTER. Early yesterday morning an accident occurred on the Highland Railway at Rogart Station, and which but for the coolheadedness and foresight of the pointsman might have proved to be of an appalling nature. About 5.30 a.m. a … Continue reading February 1903
January 1903
A NARROW ESCAPE AT WEST CALDER. An accident took place at West Calder Railway Station yesterday, whereby a workman named McCormack was injured. He had come home with a train in the evening, and being, it is stated, the worse of liquor, had wandered back on to the railway, and lay down between the … Continue reading January 1903
December 1902
TRAIN ON FIRE ON PENICUIK RAILWAY. - Yesterday forenoon when a goods train was on its way to Penicuik Station the officials observed, after leaving Eskbridge Station, that one of the waggons was on fire. The waggon was one of two each of which contained four tons of esparto grass. The railway employees uncoupled … Continue reading December 1902
November 1902
SERIOUS RAILWAY ACCIDENT AT PERTH. ————— MAN’S NARROW ESCAPE. Shortly before three o’clock this morning a rather serious railway accident occurred at Perth General Station, when a man named Patrick Caveny, a reservist in the Highland Light Infantry, residing at 89 High Street, sustained serious injuries. About the time mentioned Caveny had been at … Continue reading November 1902
October 1902
THE EXPRESS TRAIN OF THE FUTURE. ————— Mr J. Brown, a Belfast gentleman of singular engineering ability, brought to the meeting of the British Association a large working model of a railway with an electrical train upon it. His train is composed of several corridor carriages, and as it passes through each station it … Continue reading October 1902
The Tale of the Shifty Lad, the Widow’s Son – Notes, pp.363-364.
From Kate Macfarlane, in or near the year 1810; A. Campbell, Roseneath, 1860; and J. McNair, Clachaig, 1860. Some incidents in this story I have known as long as I can remember. they used to be told me as a child by John Campbell, piper. Some of them were told me in 1859 by Jon … Continue reading The Tale of the Shifty Lad, the Widow’s Son – Notes, pp.363-364.
XVIId. The Tale of the Shifty Lad, the Widow’s Son, pp.330-349.
From John Dewar, Arrochar, June, 1860. THERE was at some time or other before now a widow, and she had one son. She gave him good schooling, and she was wishful that he should choose a trade for himself; but he said he would not go to learn any art, but that he would … Continue reading XVIId. The Tale of the Shifty Lad, the Widow’s Son, pp.330-349.
September 1902
SURFACEMAN KILLED. - On Saturday afternoon, a surfaceman named John Clarkson (55), residing at Wellgate Street, Larkhall, was killed on the railway near Larkhall Station. He was examining the line preparatory to stopping work for the day, when, in stepping clear of a downcoming mineral train, he went right in front of an upcoming … Continue reading September 1902
The Slim Swarthy Champion – Notes, p.329.
A third version of this curious tale was told to me in South Uist, by MacPhie. It was very like the version told by James Wilson, blind fiddler in Islay. It is evidently a composition fallen to bits, and mended with prose, and it is equally clear that it points to Ireland, though the hero … Continue reading The Slim Swarthy Champion – Notes, p.329.
2nd Version – The History of the Ceabharnach, pp.318-324.
From John Campbell, Strath Gearloch, Ross-shire. ON the day when O’DONULL came out to hold right and justice, he saw a young chap coming. His two shoulders were through his old SUAINAICHE (sleeping coat?) his two ears through his old AIDE, hat, his two squat kick-er-ing tatter-y shoes full of cold roadway-ish water, three … Continue reading 2nd Version – The History of the Ceabharnach, pp.318-324.
August 1902
RAILWAY ACCIDENT AT GOVAN. - A labourer named Thomas Connelly (26), residing at 202 Brighton Street, Govan, was admitted to the Western Infirmary last night in a critical condition, the result of an accident he met with in the new Princes Dock railway lye. He was engaged removing a piling frame when the guy … Continue reading August 1902
XVIIc. The Slim Swarthy Champion, pp.297-308.
From James Wilson, blind fiddler, Islay, 1859. THERE was a poor man dwelling in Ard na h-Uamh, and a son was born to him, and he gave him school and learning till he was fourteen years of age. When he was fourteen years of age, he said to his father, “Father, it is time … Continue reading XVIIc. The Slim Swarthy Champion, pp.297-308.
July 1902
SAD FATALITY AT BURNTISLAND. A youth of twenty years, named Joseph Henderson, yesterday morning met with a terrible accident, which ultimately proved fatal. Henderson, who was a rope runner employed by Messrs Adamson & Son, contractors, was engaged emptying coal from a waggon at the east dock when his foot was jammed between the … Continue reading July 1902
XVIIb. Bailie Lunnain, pp.289-296.
Told by John Mackenzie, at Inverary, to J. F. C. August 1859 and 1860. THERE were at some time of the world two brothers in one farm, and they were very great friends, and they had each a son; and one of the brothers died, and he left his brother guardian. When the lad … Continue reading XVIIb. Bailie Lunnain, pp.289-296.
June 1902
RAILWAY ACCIDENT AT KILWINNING. - A railway accident, which resulted in considerable damage to the permanent way and to ten waggons filled with coal, occurred at the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Station at Kilwinning yesterday afternoon The axle of a waggon in a goods train broke while passing through Kilwinning Station on the Ardrossan … Continue reading June 1902
May 1902
BOY FALLS FROM A TRAIN. - On Friday afternoon a boy named Marchbanks fell from a railway carriage at Nisbet, while travelling between Jedburgh and Roxburgh. The boy’s mother and some other children were in the carriage, and the boy had been working with the handle. He was bruised about the head and sustained … Continue reading May 1902
April 1902
DIED TO SAVE HIS PICK-AXE. A plate-layer named Patrick Gallagher was killed on the railway near Cardonald Station under tragic circumstances this morning. Seeing a train approaching, Gallagher stood aside to let it pass. Just as it was upon him, he suddenly noticed he had left his pick in the train’s track. Deceased leaned … Continue reading April 1902
XVIIa. Fables, pp.275-288.
1. From J. MacLeod, fisherman on the Laxford, Sutherland. ONE day the fox succeeded in catching a fine fat goose asleep by the side of a loch, he held her by the wing, and making a joke of her cackling, hissing and fears, he said, - “Now, if you had me in your mouth as … Continue reading XVIIa. Fables, pp.275-288.
March 1902
BLOCK ON THE WAVERLEY ROUTE. - About 3.15 on Saturday afternoon a goods train of 35 waggons, bound from Haymarket to St Boswells, drew up on approaching Glenesk signal cabin, owing to the signal being shut against it. A second goods train, consisting of 3 waggons, intended for Dalkeith, was, it appears, permitted to … Continue reading March 1902
Maol a Chliobain – Notes, pp.268-274.
This story came to me from four sources. First, the one which I have translated, into which several passages are introduced (in brackets) from the other versions. this was written down by Hector MacLean. A version got by the same collector from Flora Macintyre, in Islay; received June 16, 1859. In this the whole of … Continue reading Maol a Chliobain – Notes, pp.268-274.
XVII. Maol a Chliobain, pp.259-264.
From Ann MacGilvray, Islay. THERE was a widow ere now, and she had three daughters; and they said to her that they would go to seek their fortune. She baked three bannocks. She said to the big one, “Whether dost thou like best the small half and my blessing, or the big half and … Continue reading XVII. Maol a Chliobain, pp.259-264.
‘Life of Mary, Queen of Scots’ (1818)
I already have a copy of this two-volume publication, 'The Life of Mary, Queen of Scots,' (1822), but when I was offered this at a reduced price I couldn't help myself. The beforementioned edition, that was used to upload the Text back in 2018, is devoid of illustrations and had to be rebound just to … Continue reading ‘Life of Mary, Queen of Scots’ (1818)
February 1902
ACCIDENT TO A STIRLING RAILWAYMAN. - William Morris 25, yardsman, son of John Morris, a Caledonian Railway engine-driver, residing at Winchel Place, Stirling, while shunting coal waggons at the Electric Lighting Station, to-day, missed his footing, and fell, his right leg being seriously crushed and torn. he was removed to the Royal Infirmary. - … Continue reading February 1902
The King of Lochlin’s Three Daughters – Notes, pp.257-258.
This story was written, May 1859, by Hector Urquhart, gamekeeper, from the dictation of Neil Gillies, a fisherman and builder of stone dykes, who lives near Inverary. He is now about fifty-five, and says he learned the story from his father, who used to tell it when he was about sixteen or seventeen. It has … Continue reading The King of Lochlin’s Three Daughters – Notes, pp.257-258.
XVI. The King of Lochlin’s Three Daughters, pp.244-251.
From Neill Gillies, fisherman, near Inverary. THERE was a king over Lochlin, once upon a time, who had a leash of daughters; they went out (on) a day to take a walk; and there came three giants, and they took with them the daughters of the king, and there was no knowing where they … Continue reading XVI. The King of Lochlin’s Three Daughters, pp.244-251.
January 1902
RAILWAY FLOODED AT KINROSS. Heavy rain with a strong wind, which caused the heavy accumulation of snow on the hills and low ground to melt rapidly, brought down the streams in high flood yesterday. About two o’clock in the morning the Gelly Burn, which flows into the South Queich at Loch Leven Station, overflowed … Continue reading January 1902
