LENTEN APPEAL
Please consider making a donation to the Church of Scotland HIV / AIDS Special Appeal. All funds raised will be directed to the very great needs of the Third World - hopefully, we are all aware of the great disparity between available resources and the desperate plight of families overseas. Use your credit card at www.churchofscotland.org.uk or put cash or cheques in an envelope at the Post Office for Margaret Walker, Treasurer.
[Note: So far, the National Appeal has raised £60,000 - almost enough to pay for one-third of a "smart" bomb]
By a lonely harbor wall
She watched the last star falling …
Yes, Oban's loss is Colonsay's gain. Well-known soccer fan and popular all-rounder ANGUS MACPHEE is back in Colonsay. Frustrated by the narrow horizons and social conventions of life in down-town metropolitan Oban, Angus has decided to return to the land of his forefathers. We understand that he returns this week and that he will be taking up an interesting new position.
Well done Angus, and welcome back. And carry on dreaming, Oban girls.
GOOD START TO SEASON
Moira Kerr ran a story on the current season in the Aberdeen Press and Journal this week, reporting excellent business in Argyll and with heartening news from Colonsay:
"On Colonsay, the only hotel on the remote Argyll island is currently doing a roaring trade, with hardly any beds left for Easter weekend.
The hotel's owner Christine Bailey said a lot of people tended to be booking last minute holidays at the moment.
"People are ringing up on a Monday wanting to come over to Colonsay on the Wednesday.
"We are busy and there seems to be a real buzz around the island at the moment.
"We have been busy all through March, with both guests and workmen who are staying on the island." She said the war in Iraq might be bringing extra trade to the island, as Brits choose to holiday at home rather than go abroad."
THE NEW HOUSES
At last the new houses have been offered to tenants. Reputedly, the detached ones have been offered to Ms. Lucy Johnstone and to Mr. & Mrs. Alan Robertson, whilst the semis have been offered to Ms. Barbara Clark and to Ms. Isobelle Campbell. It is said that three or four other candidates now form the nucleus of a new waiting list and that efforts will be made to start a new phase as quickly as possible. There is no word on the tenancies or possible uses of the two workshop units, which are nearing completion. As can be seen from the picture, they totally overwhelm the residential development.
The latest houses are a very welcome addition, but it is hard to know if enough is yet being done to preserve this community. Many millions of pounds have been spent, on water, electricity, digital communications, linkspan, ships, houses and everything else, but the population is barely holding its own. There were about 102 people here in 1993 and at present there are about 109. In 1990, 39 houses were empty, being built or were otherwise unavailable for permanent occupancy - this figure has rocketed to 55 in 2003, an increase of over 40%. There are some excellent indices - the relative proportions of pensioners, workers and youngsters have seen little change, and the proportion of tied houses has fallen dramatically. On the other hand, it is interesting to see that the proportion of "incomers" has only now reached 60%, which is rather a worry - if the island is to thrive, we need to attract many more families.
The quantity (and quality) of the permanent housing stock has increased by a dramatic 26% in the last decade, but the average family unit has fallen from 2.08 to 1.81 persons. As fast as the houses are being built, we are spreading out sideways to fill them; but this is a modern phenomenon - falling birth rates are actually affecting the viability of regional maternity units.
The following (unofficial) figures may err in detail, but have been prepared in a consistent manner. unfortunately they are not in the grid form that was intended, but hopefully should still be of some interest, showing comparisons for 1990, 1993, 200 and 2003:
1891 Census
Inhabited House:85 Uninhabited: 4 Windowed rooms 307
Population 192 Male 188 Females Total 380
Figures noted by K Byrne 1990 1993 2000 2003
No of family units 48 49 54 60
Houses used by those units 45 46 52 58
Caravans used for residence 2 1 1 2
No of Tied Houses 22 20 14 14
Proportion of families in tied houses 45% 40% 25% 23%
No of houses used as Holiday Lets 17 17 23 28
No of houses used as second homes 14 15 20 19
No of houses empty or building 8 7 7 8
Therefore No. of houses unavailable 39 39 50 55
No of purpose-built s/c units 21 21 18 18
No of pre-school infants 3 1 10 5
No at Primary school 6 8 9 10
No at Secondary School 12 9 3 4
Therefore, no of children 21 18 22 19
Adults, working age 55 60 55 58
Pensioners and retired 28 25 34 32
Therefore prop adults as pensioners 33% 29% 38% 35%
Total population 103 102 111 109
Native population 49 43 45 43
Incomers 54 59 66 66
Therefore prop. Of incomers 52% 57% 59% 60%
Gaelic Speakers c. 34 c. 30 c. 25 c.25
"COLONSAY'S FALLEN"
Most readers will be aware that a long-standing friend of Colonsay undertook to research the story of all who are commemorated on the Colonsay War Memorials or by War Graves in Colonsay and Oransay. Alan Davis began this work little more than a year ago and has been indefatigable in his dedication. Many local people have been able to assist in the project and it is now very close to completion.
A draft copy of "Colonsay's Fallen" has come to hand, and it is an absolutely outstanding achievement. Alan has identified each individual and included reference to the family context and early life, before detailing the background to enlistment and subsequent military career. He then gives an outline of the circumstances surrounding the final tragedy, and identifies the grave location (where known), together with precise identification of memorials. The work is fully supported by maps and photographs, including ships, overseas locations etc.
The draft copy is available for inspection here in Colonsay - just call at the CalMac office to see it; this is an important project and merits the interest of one and all. Alan will be in the island over Easter and will be making a final effort to complete his task - if any reader can assist in any way, please do get in touch with him, or leave a note at the Post Office.
"Colonsay's Fallen" is a moving and dignified tribute to those who fell, and to those who were left behind. It is hoped that it will be published, possibly in a limited edition, and it will doubtless become an important heirloom in many households. Perhaps as importantly, it will make a contribution to the philosophy of future generations resident in these islands - because of its immediacy to local places and families, "Colonsay's Fallen" is a very powerful document. Alan Davis deserves great credit.
THE NEW LIGHTHOUSE
The new solar-powered lighthouse is nearing completion and elaborate arrangements are being made for calibration and aspect; to the lay person, it looks as if the throw will be somewhat enhanced. The design is attractive and functional and the contractors (from Islay) are to be congratulated on their speed and efficiency.
The old lighthouse, "An Cruisgen", has not been removed from the island and is to be given to the Community Council for restoration and preservation. It was designed and constructed by the Stevenson brothers, and erected in 1904; as far as is known it was provided under the auspices of the Department of Agriculture and was originally requested in 1851. Bill Lawson was the last of the Keepers and it is hoped that further information on its history and the full list of Keepers can be researched.
ALL AT SEA
On Tuesday 15th, a sheep was worried by a dog and escaped into the sea, where it swam vigorously out to the pier and under the bow of "Hebridean Princess". Pier staff noticed it as the ship was casting off and were able to alert the Master, who therefore moved out very slowly and without using his thrusters.
Unfortunately, the sheep chose to swim after the ship and it put in a creditable performance for about 50 metres; by this stage "Lady Jayne" was on the case, but as she drew near the sheep swam in amongst the pier framework and out of reach. Pursuit was continued by dinghy until at last the creature was secured, whereupon Charlie MacKinnon climbed down a ladder to take her in tow and the lusty oarsman struck out for dry land.
Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation in such cases must be administered through the nostrils, but would-be First Aider Richard Irvine was cheated of the chance to demonstrate his skills. The casualty seems to have survived and remains on course for a destiny with mint sauce.
Yes, this was a slow news week and we are struggling.
NATURE NOTES
The first (real) Corncrake was reported at Longfield on Thursday 10 April; the Blackthorn opposite the quarry was in perfect bloom on 15 April, and everywhere the gorse is in resplendent glory. Marsh Marigold has already appeared, Common Seals are getting ready to pup, Gannets are appearing and there are huge flocks of Guillemots (including numerous groups of Black Guillemots). No whales have been seen yet, but there are plenty of Eider duck and Starlings are active in great swirling flocks.
Scurvy Grass is in delightful bloom (e.g. on the slip), carmine buds are bursting from the cushions of Sea Pink, violets abound and there are Bluebells and Pink Purslane along the Bay road. Also opposite-leaved Golden Saxifrage…
FIRE BRIGADE
Back row, Angus, Donald, Ross, George, Hughie. Front row, Willie(instructor), Jenn, Lucy, and Peter (instructor). The volunteers of the Colonsay Fire Service have had a busy few days. On Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th, Lucy Johnstone, Jenn McFadyen and George Leppard underwent the first part of their B.A.(breathing apparatus) training. All three thoroughly enjoyed the course and look forward to the next part of their training.
On Monday 31st they were joined by the other volunteers, i.e. Ross, Donald, Angus and Hughie to learn the theory behind Fire Behaviour, Flashovers and Backdraft. This entailed the trainers using video, lectures and demonstrations in the fire station. This prepared the volunteers for the practical exercise which took place at the pier on Tuesday 1st April in the Fire Behaviour Unit.
Fire flashovers are demonstrated by using propane gas. This simulates an actual room fire. The heat within the unit reaches a temperature of 200 degrees. In teams of two together with an instructor, each volunteer on two occasions entered the unit which was in full burn. Using the pulse spray hose we were taught how to control and extinguish a Flashover fire. Everyone enjoyed the course and learnt a great deal from it, although obviously it is hoped that what was learnt never has to be put to use on the Island. So anyone reading this who does not have a smoke alarm in their home Get One Now!
There are vacancies for volunteers at the moment, so anyone wishing to join should contact Ross Moodie for an application form. You never know, it could be you that needs our assistance!!
Hughie and Donald in the Box
NOOKS & CRANNIES: O.S. Name Book
The Ordnance Survey Name Book records information gathered during the original survey, from named local informants. Mr A. Campbell, Baleromindubh, Mr. M. McNeill, Balerominmore and Mr. Neil Darroch, Milbuie gave information about Carraig Mhic a' Phi. It might be of interest as indicating the sketchy nature of some traditions at that time, suggesting that they may have been "fleshed out" in subsequent reworkings.
"A standing stone about 6ft high situated about 11 chains northwest of Balerominmore. It is said to be ancient. It is also said to have received its present name from a tradition that one of the McDuffies of Colonsay was tied to it and left to perish in the feud between that family and the McNeills (sic), ancestors of the present proprietor, for possession of the island."
Also, Pairc na h'Eaglais: "An enclosure about 10 yards in diameter and nearly circular, situated nearly 1 chain west of Carragh Mac a' Phi [i.e. its original location]. It is supposed to be very old, but nothing definite is known concerning it. It is said to have been chiefly, if not entirely, devoted to the interment of infants, dying unbaptised. No interment of any sort has taken place in it within the recollection of the oldest inhabitant of the island."
This week's picture is a view of Oronsay Priory.
WHAT'S ON IN COLONSAY
Book Signing at noon on 19 April: author Michael Yellowlees will be present at the launch of his new book "So Strange a Monster as a Jesuiste" at the Colonsay Bookshop.
The Gun Club Easter Shoot to be held at Machrins on Saturday 19th April.
Quiz in the Hotel every THURSDAY at 9.30 pm.
Evening Meals: 6pm - 9pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
5pm - 9.30pm on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Lunches served daily 12 - 2.30pm
Bar open: 12 - 2.30 and 6pm till late (from 5pm on Friday and Sunday).
The Pantry - Summere hours apply
Tel 01951 200235
Church Service
Please note that services in both the Baptist Church and the Church of Scotland are at the new time of 11.30hrs. Services are held regularly - see notices in the shop and hotel for details. Easter Day will be a joint service in the Baptist Church - all welcome.
Advance notice:
May 1st: ELECTIONS: MSPs, democratically and also "first past the post", and Councillors.
The 14th International Gathering of Clan Macfie is to be held May 14-18, 2003 in Gatlinburg, TN, hosted by the Macfie Clan Society of America. For more information see http://www.macfiesocietyofamerica.com or contact:
Jim McAfee, Macfie Clan Society of America
420 Ash Dr.; Baxter, TN 38544 USA
jgmcafee@tnaccess.com
ACCOMMODATION
Weekends (only) s/c flat in Oban (linen provided) available to folk with Colonsay connections - contact Ishbell on 07979 947589
SNIPPETS
The new houses are likely to be called Dun Odhran (Beinn Dun having been narrowly defeated and Dun Raomainn already assigned); AIE have agreed financial support to develop the island shop; Christa has taken delivery of a Peugeot Partner; Jeni MacFadyen is in Australia; the council's refuse wagon has remodelled both the new grids at Colonsay House on its first attempt; the condition of the knuckle foundation in the harbour looks worse than was first apparent; all ferries on the new service are being well-used and the island is very busy; landscaping is taking place at Torr an Tuirc and Chris Nisbet has started work on the new entrance at Mull Dubh; congratulations and every happiness to the MacLeod family, now in residence at Uragaig; the Colonsay football team is back in action and challenges all comers:
Selecting a team
Sparkling actionTOPICAL LETTERS
For convenience of readers, letters now appear in two sections. Anything to do with current events appears here, and letters to do with the Magazine section or historical research etc. will appear at the end of the Magazine section.
hi there
- we spoke a while ago - I don't know if it is of interest to
you but i have had a website designed by one of our designers in the
McNeill of colonsay tartan. The organisation we use, weblogger at
http://www.weblogger.com, now gives this theme for use on its sites.
If you have any keen bloggers out there they might want to use it
especially when you get your broadband ;-)
greg McNeill
From Roger Butler:
I'm just dipping into a book published in 1981- Scottish Island Hopping
by Jemima Tindall - and here's a quote from it which has got me well and
truly puzzled......."Lord Strathcona thought the climate would be good
for rearing decorative wildfowl; indeed it was almost too good, for they
ate too much and so the flocks were reduced, but black swans and
flamingos can be spotted among the many other varieties of birds
populating the six lochs and extensive shore."
Black swans and flamingos?!
Any visitors using this book will certainly have been disappointed!
But had some been introduced in the past? Can The Corncrake shed any
light? Although it's the 1st of April today, this is a genuine quote.
Editor's note: The black swans and flamingo population throve at one time, but as far as I have heard the flamingos did not retain their colour and were eventually killed by being trapped in the ice of the winter of 1947. No great loss by all accounts - the late Ross Darroch averred that they were quite tasteless and that there was very little on the drumstick. And many thanks to Frank Nicholson for reminding us of the splendid telegram in which the gamekeeper informed the laird of their demise - "My Lord - your pelicans is dead".
Rainbow Warriors?
Two recent contributors to your letters section sound so fierce that it is with some trepidation that I raise my head above the parapet. But I must enter a plea. It is simply this - don't let's get so bogged-down with political correctness that we lose our sense of humour.
Yes, I can see that these two ladies feel badly let down on many fronts and that in making fun of the French, not only are you lowering the tone of your newsletter you are also coming perilously close to destroying the fabric of our island community. Now, this is serious stuff and you would do well to have a care. You know what mothers, "beknighted (sic)" or otherwise, say about tearful endings.
You might easily find yourself in a position where, as a result of your frivolity, you could be denied the privilege of keeping your readers in touch with comings and goings, present and past, both on and off the island. Were that to happen, what on earth would you do with your time? It's worth thinking about.
Incidentally, I hope you are not taking sole credit for those "funnies". They were in circulation before you got hold of them. You weren't around at the time of Noel Coward's ditty "Don't lets be beastly to the Germans". Now, there was a master and those were the days.
And now I must get back to my computer. If there is even the slightest possibility that it will get me on to this tide of human wisdom there is not a moment to lose.
Oops! Sorry - just joking. Vive le "Corncrake". - Peggy Robertson
*********
Dear Kevin
Firstly I am writing in praise of your steadfast work in publishing "The Corncrake" in your freetime, and at no expense to anyone. I think I speak for the majority of us on Colonsay who receive and enjoy the magazine - WELL DONE. And now to those who wrote about your jibes against the French, not the war. I say it's sad when two intelligent people have to swallow a dictionary before they can write a letter of complaint to "The Corncrake" - Get a sense of humour! Get a life! - MagS
Hi Kevin
Thank you for the Glassard Gaps and One Way System articles. Glad to see the horrors happening on Colonsay by the new powers that be haven't dented your sense of humour.
Have a lovely Easter and love to all.
Karen Clarke
You've the wrong end of the stick with the Corncrake....most of the new Glassard houses have bow windows and integral garages
ho ho
dj (David Johnstone)
Dear Sir/Madam,
A computer can be a boon for news and views, not just those of international
correspondents in the world press, but individuals saying their piece, read
by neighbours and across the globe on small websites and forums. Such is the
power of communication through this form of media, people all over the world
become aware of common problems and common misconceptions though they may
live in far flung lands. It can also become tyrannically addictive, taking
precious time away from real life beyond the screen.
I personally have never before been more active in championing various
causes than with my computer via e-mail. But there is a cost, touched on in
the last paragraph - life ticks by as I tap away at keys. Outside the window
there may be beauty or ugliness, but it's the real world, in which things
change constantly, sometimes a blink can miss an entire generation growing.
I am concerned. I live in the South East of England, London born and bred.
The cane, slipper and loud voice ruled my childhood. My escape was by
bicycle around a myriad of housing estate streets, if only for a few hours.
Life today is hectic and high speed. We have knowledge as things happen, we
can respond within minutes, yet life is unrewarding and we still seek
escape. Through your internet website you have a portal that appears a gold
mine of escape. Now I know nothing of Colonsay other than that which your
website shows, and I know that remote Islands can be harsh places on which
to live all year round and that income from tourist traffic can make or
break the bank with the loss of more traditional income which has gone for
good. I am concerned about Colonsay's inhabitants losing their precious
individuality to hoards of 'foreigner's, I am concerned that your one way
system is pandering to more influx of road traffic, I would question the
value of increased road traffic on such a small island. God forbid you
should turn Colonsay into a car park, complete with acres of tarmac; traffic
claming; speed cameras, and all the other trappings of fools who want to
escape but take their toys with them and more fools that want to control
them. Your greatest asset is peace and quiet, a balanced attitude to natural
living away from technology, leave the keyboard; the mobile phone; the
plasma screen TV; the weekend lawnmower chorus; the trek to the garden
centre; the 'superstore'; the madness - we have excess enough and are still
unhappy.
You may welcome the invaders, but make sure they wipe their feet on the way
in, and close the door behind them when they leave.
To me, the 'elegant' communications mast is just a pile of angle iron stuck
upright - (perfectly in scale with what? The heather? The hills? The sea
views? A warm welcome?) This, the 'enhanced' ferry service, and the adoption
of metric measurements (a sure move to be doomed to euro conformity) make
the sound of the giants footsteps come ever closer. Save what you can - or
like the Corncrake, a species is about to be lost.
The bird is in your hand. Don't lose it for wanting the two in the bush.
Kind regards -
Derek Reynolds
I was reading your article about one way traffic on the island this summer. As a recent visitor (last summer) I did drive on your road. Please tell me that this is really an April Fool's joke. I have emailed some of the Galbraith clan that are also from Colonsay and they don't believe it either. Does this mean if I go to Kiloran Bay I have to drive in reverse as well as driving on the wrong side of the road?
Jack Selluski, St. Catharines Ontario Canada
[O.K., I confess to an April Fool; I was not going to admit it but so many people seem to have trouble with the reversing that there is no real improvement in traffic flow. Everything else is true and Derek Reynolds is expressing in plain English many of the doubts and reservations of which we are all acutely conscious. Our environment is precious and acutely fragile - we can just live for today or perhaps provide for tomorrow as well (Mathew, 25) - Editor]
The Magazine Section
