NON-FOOTBALL STORIES 1901

While looking through old documents, it is almost inevitable that the reader's attention will be drawn from the intended target to other articles. The reports below were found in old Ardrossan and Saltcoats Heralds and Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Standards. Although they have no football content, they may be of interest.


SAD AT HOLIDAYS ENDING
Some of the Academy boys felt a bit nasty at having to end their holiday on Thursday (3 January 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

VULGAR CAMERAS IN ARDROSSAN?
A Kew gentleman was refused admission to Kew Gardens on Boxing Day to take photos of botanical subjects and was informed that cameras were 'rather vulgar'. Ardrossan has a lot of the same 'vulgar' things.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

MASON FINED FOR ASSAULTING HIS WIFE
A mason, for assaulting his wife in Barr Lane, appeared at the Burgh Court one morning this week where Bailie Goodwin brought the mighty fist of the law down on him. The sentence was 7s 6d or five days.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

DISAPPEARANCE OF AN ARDROSSAN WOMAN
A woman, the wife of a mason, left her home at 25 Harbour Place, Ardrossan (shown below in 2002) on Sunday afternoon last (30 December 1900) and has not been heard of since. The circumstances connected with her disappearance, have given rise to very grave apprehension. Before leaving the house on Sunday afternoon, the woman gave her purse to her son, a lad of about fifteen, telling him to be careful not to lose it as it contained a large sum of money. Her son asked where she was going and she replied that she was going out for some pies for the tea. She did not return home. Since then, a number of articles of female clothing have been found in the vicinity of The Inches at the point off which the water is deep. The articles comprised a red knitted shoulder cape, a plaid and an apron and have been identified as the property of the missing woman. At the time of writing, no further facts relative to the appearance of the woman have transpired but the worst is feared.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

KILMAHEW HOUSE BECOMES MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS
The Commissioners and the Burgh officials have now entered upon the occupancy of Kilmahew (shown below in 1978) as municipal buildings. The final structure has been furnished by the Commissioners in a manner that delivers them from the charge of having proceeded in this matter without regard either to the dignity of the Burgh or the traditions of the building which has now become the centre of the civic life of the community. Ardrossan is not a pocket burgh but is a Burgh with a pocket pretty deep and well-lined as the municipal buildings proclaim to all who care to visit them.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

COUNCILLOR BENNETT WORKED HARD ON MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS
Councillor Bennett is to be congratulated on the result of his individual efforts to furnish and decorate the new municipal building to a creditable, praiseworthy manner. The burden of the negotiations fell on his shoulders. There was no-one in the Council as well qualified and the work undertaken by him has been discharged most efficiently.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

ARDROSSAN MINISTER CALLED TO MANCHESTER
Reverend John Masterton, Ardrossan, has received a call to a church in Manchester.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB
Ardrossan Camera Club had a fitting close to the exhibition of members' work which has been on view on for some weeks. A lantern show was given on Monday night (31 December 1900) of prize and other plates. The attendance was good and the evening highly appreciated. Viewed as a whole, the work of the Club reveals a distinct advance. There were some exhibits that would have brought credit to the professional photographer and what was specially noteworthy was the discernment shown in the choice of bits. In that respect, the development of the artistic faculty was as observable as in the finished production. What would like to see would be a larger field of competitors. The industry of the few has apparently cooled the ardour of the many. This need not be so and we trust that the next exhibition will be indicative of the photographic talent of the Club as a whole.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 January 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY
The opening meeting of the second half of the session, presided over by Mr McLean, was held in the Free Church Hall on Tuesday night (8 January 1901) when the honorary president, Mr William Guthrie, addressed the Society.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 January 1901

ARDROSSAN ARTIST SELLS DRAWING
Mr Andrew Allan has been successful in selling two silverpoint drawings exhibited in the Aberdeen exhibition.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901
Andrew Allan was born in Ardrossan in 1863, was a student of the Glasgow School of Art from 1882 to 1896 and went on to become an acknowledged lithographic artist. He was also mentioned in the Heralds of 25 December 1891, 3 February 1893, 16 March 1900 and 30 March 1900.

ARDROSSAN MAN BECOMES MARINE ENGINEER
Mr John, Boyd, Rowallan, Glasgow Street, Ardrossan (shown below in the early 1900s) has succeeding in passing his final examination as a marine engineer. He was a pupil of Mr McGibbon, Glasgow.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

OPPOSITION TO ARDROSSAN WATER SCHEME
The Ardrossan Water Scheme is not to pass unopposed. The following have lodged petitions to be heard against the provisional order being proceeding with - Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company, Caledonian Railway Company, Trustees of the Scottish Legal Life Assurance Company, George Morton of Montfode, Lady Sophia Montgomery, Ardrossan Harbour Company and Lanarkshire and Ayrshire Railway Company.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

VANDALISM ON CASTLE HILL
There is fresh complaint of vandalism on the Castle Hill (shown below left in 2012). Two of the seats so much appreciated by the public in the summer months were this winter left on the hill. One of them was placed near the old graveyard (shown below right in 2012) where it afforded grateful rest to pedestrians climbing the hill from either side but it was overturned so often that it was removed to the fountain and has since been broken. The mischievousness which thus abuses and destroys public conveniences should be severely punished.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

ARDROSSAN TUGBOAT
Though the Ardrossan tugboat was too late in arriving at Holy Isle on Friday morning last (11 January 1901) to be of service to the Anchor Line Ethiopia, the despatch shown by everybody concerned was most praiseworthy. Twenty minutes after the intelligence that the liner was ashore reached Mr Stevenson, Receiver of Wrecks, Captain Shields, harbour-master had the Greville-Vernon out of the harbour. Captain Murchie was in command and Mr Stevenson was on board. Diligent search was made for the Ethiopia but as the big ship had been taken off in the interval, no sign of her was seen. The tugboat picked up the Kildonnan lifeboat near the lighthouse and took her in tow to Lamlash.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

EVANGELICAL UNION CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH BUSINESS MEETING
The annual business meeting of this congregation was held in the Hall, Glasgow Street on Wednesday evening last (16 January 1901), Reverend John Masterton presiding. The balance sheet showed a total income for congregational purposes of £220 17s 3d. The total amount received from all sources in aid of the new church building scheme was £738 18s of which £540 had been expended on the purchase of the building and site of the hall. Other expenses connected therewith brought up the total expenditure to £738 11s 10. Saturday Night Meeting Fund showed a balance of £4 12s 9 1/2d on the right side. Office bearers were elected. Mr J Vickers was elected president; Mr H Campbell, treasurer; Mr Thomas Watson, secretary and Messrs H Bain and T Wilson, auditors. A few additions were made to the Board of Managers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

SALTCOATS AND ARDROSSAN ROYAL ARCH LODGE NUMBER 320
This Lodge began the century well by initiating seven candidates. The chair was occupied by Brother John Stewart, Right Worshipful Master, who was supported by Immediate Past Master Brother Murray and past Masters Brothers Murchie and Aird. The ceremony was conducted by Brother Aird in his usual masterly style. There was a large turnout of the brethren, the lodge-room being taxed to its utmost. The Brethren expressed the opinion that the time had now come for providing a more suitable lodge-room
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF RECHABITES - ARDROSSAN CASTLE HILL TENT
A social meeting, designed to promote social feeling among the members, was held in the Templars' Hall, Glasgow Street (shown below as the Gospel Hall in 2002) on Friday evening last (11 January 1901). Brother R Craig, Chief Ruler, presided. The attendance was not so good as it ought to have been but a fine spirit pervaded the gathering. Songs were contributed by Sister Jeanie Mackay and Brothers Blair, Craig and Green. Brothers Barbour and Donnan were the elocutionists of the evening. Parlour games were engaged in till midnight when a pleasant evening was brought to a close. The annual social meeting in connection with the Tent comes off about the end of February or the beginning of March.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

INTER-DEBATE ON THE HOUSE OF LORDS
On Monday evening (14 January 1901), in the Temperance Hotel, Saltcoats (shown below as Lloyds and Ladbrokes in Hamilton Street in 2012), an inter-debate took place between the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Literary Societies. Mr H M Murdoch, vice-president of the Saltcoats Society, occupied the chair and there was a good attendance of the members of both Societies.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 January 1901

DEATH OF THE QUEEN
The death of those distinguished by their station but by their virtue more awakes the mind to solemn dread and strikes a saddening awe. These words of the poet were never more expressive of the feelings of a people than they are today of the people whose delight it was to call Victoria, Queen. The death of her Majesty has quickened every mind and cast a shadow over all the land. For four brief days the nation prayed that she who was 'broad-based upon her people's will' might be spared yet a while. She was their sovereign, well-beloved.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY FORTY-FIVE YEARS OLD
Forty-five years ago tonight, the Ardrossan Literary Society held its first celebration of the twenty-fifth when the principal feature of celebration was the number of addresses on literary subjects.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY POSTPONES MEETING
The usual weekly meeting of this Society on Tuesday evening (22 January 1901) was to have taken the form of a Burns Night but on receipt of the news of the Queen's death, it was unanimously agreed to adjourn the meeting. Sentiments of regret and sympathy were expressed by various members. The younger members of the Society should get in some fine work on Tuesday first (29 January 1901) when the question Is Marriage A Failure? will be debated.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901

HONORARIUM FOR BURGH SURVEYOR
On the recommendation of the Drains Committee, Ardrossan Town Council on Monday (21 January 1901) voted an honorarium of £20 to Mr C J Shaw, Burgh Surveyor, for extra labours in connection with the drainage operations.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901

SOUTH BECOMES NORTH
The power of the printer was illustrated in these columns last week. By merely substituting the word North for the word South in our report of Ardrossan Town Council meeting, he shifted a gas tap from South Crescent (shown below left as South Crescent Road in 2008) to North Crescent (shown below right as North Crescent Road in 2002) .

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901

ARDROSSAN YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
Lads attending the Bible Class connected with the Ardrossan Young Men's Christian Association met in a social capacity on Tuesday evening (22 January 1901) when an address was given by Mr Fleck of Glasgow. A series of cinematograph views were added to the enjoyment of a profitable evening.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901

IN MEMORIAM - MR JOHN McAUSLAND, SALTCOATS
Very many readers will learn with regret of the death of Mr John McAusland which took place at his residence, Manse Street, Saltcoats on Friday last (18 January 1901). He was a native of Luss and in his younger days worked on the Clyde at his trade as blacksmith. He came to Ardrossan as foreman blacksmith to Messrs Barr and Shearer a position he occupied over thirty years. In addition to being an excellent workman, he was well acquainted with literature and political questions which he could discourse on with great fluency. In Ardrossan, he always took a great interest in municipal affairs. Since his retiral from the shipyard, he has for the most part lived in Saltcoats.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901

PRESENTATION TO MR ALEX MACKNIGHT
On Tuesday night (22 January 1901), in Dunstaffnage Cottage, Ardrossan (shown below left in Caledonia Road in 2002), Mr Alex Macknight, lately employed with Nobel's Explosives Company was presented with a handsome gold hunter watch from the captains and officers of Nobel's Steamers. Captain Campbell of the steamship Alfred Nobel, in making the presentation, referred to Mr Macknight's long connection with Nobel's Company and of the esteem in which he was held by his employers and the employees and wished him every success in his new situation. The gift was suitably acknowledged. Mr Macknight has been appointed assistant sanitary inspector for the Northern District of the County of Ayr, his headquarters being Beith.

The photograph above right is reproduced by kind permission of the Lismore Museum curators. Lismore is an island in the Inner Hebrides on the west coast of Scotland. It is ten miles long and one mile wide at its maximum and has a population of approximately 180. The bearded man in naval uniform is Captain Hugh Anderson who was born in Lismore in 1839. Written on the back of the photo are the words 'In front of Dunstaffnage and Ardluing Cottages, Ardrossan - probably taken at the end of last century or around 1900. The children are possibly his grand daughters Christina and Julia Campbell but the lady holding their hands is not their mother Mrs Campbell.'. Hugh Anderson rose in the marine service to become a master of vessels in the coastal trade between Glasgow and Liverpool before moving to be the commander of ships owned by the Nobel Explosives Company at Ardeer, Stevenston. His service lasted for around thirty years into his sixties. Around 1890, Hugh Anderson and his family moved from Glasgow to Ardluing Cottage. The neighbouring house was called Dunstaffnage Cottage and was occupied by Captain Colin Campbell who is mentioned in the above story. Captain Campbell was a sea captain with Nobel's ships between the 1890s and the 1920s and married Hugh Anderson's daughter, Christina. Hugh Anderson was a competent poet and songwriter. He died in Stevenston on 22 August 1909. Further information on Hugh Anderson can be seen on the Isle of Lismore's Community Website.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 January 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN WINS BRONZE MEDAL IN CAMERA COMPETITION
Mr J M Comrie, Ardrossan has been awarded a bronze medal by the judges in connection with Greenock Camera Club competition.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 February 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN BUYS OUTFIT FOR COLD GIRL
An Ardrossan gentleman did a kindly act the other evening on observing a wee lassie stockingless and shoeless in the midst of a cold, biting wind. He led her into a near shop and provided her with an outfit.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 February 1901

DOMINOS COMPETITION WINNERS
The dominos competition which has been running in the Ardrossan Liberal Club for some weeks past has now been brought to a close, the following being the prizewinners - first R Craig, second J Barclay, third J Gibson.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 February 1901

PRESENTATION TO REVEREND MR MASTERTON
We direct the attention of our readers to the announcement of presentation to the Reverend Mr Masterton to be made tonight (1 February 1901) in a soiree at the Ardrossan Evangelical Union Congregational Church (shown in 1974 at the left of the photograph below). We understand that the movement to honour Mr Masterton thus has been largely shared in by the townspeople and that the desire is general that he should carry with him to his new charge a strong sense of the appreciation in which he is held by the people of Ardrossan.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 February 1901

PASSERS-BY INSULTED IN SOUTH CRESCENT
A correspondent calls attention to the fact that for several winters past and this winter as usual, it has been the custom for gangs of boors (not Boers) - the rising buds of Ardrossan's noble manhood - to congregate in the vicinity of South Crescent (shown below in the early 190s) on Sabbath evenings, passing insulting remarks on passers-by, especially females. As usual in this locality, as in others doubtless, one solitary youth has not the courage to insult a passer-by, the insulted might turn on him and give him an Roland for an Oliver but being safe in the security of numbers, he and his 'band of braves' can do as they like. If one of our so-called protectors (shade of Cromwell!) were to haul up some of the above-mentioned scions of society before the police court on a Monday morning, it might act as a deterrent to others.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 February 1901

ANCIENT ORDER OF FORRESTERS
The annual business meeting of the Ardrossan Court Royal Oak number 6237 (Ayr District) was held on Monday evening (28 January 1900). The annual report and financial statement was submitted. The Society was shown to be in a very prosperous position financially, the Sick and Funeral Fund showing a credit balance of £637 odds and the other funds also being in a very satisfactory condition. During the year, the numerical position of the branch has been strengthened and at 31 December 1900, the number on the roll was 91. For the coming year, the office bearers are C R - William Fullerton, S C R - Alex Auld, S R James Jenkins, J R - Alex McEwen, treasurer - James Cunningham, secretary John Barclay. Messrs James Watson and Alex Auld were appointed auditors. A reference to the contributions and benefits rates shows that the Society is one that commands itself.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 February 1901

ARDROSSAN LIBRARY AND READING ROOM

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 February 1901

ARDROSSAN LIBRARY AND READING ROOM
The Ardrossan Cooperative Society have agreed to subscribe £30 in aid of the proposed Scottish Inland Convalescent Home. This is the kind of cooperation of which everybody approves.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 February 1901

QUEEN VICTORIA'S FUNERAL

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 February 1901

ARDROSSAN CONSERVATIVES BECOME UNIONISTS
The lesser has swallowed up the greater. In Ardrossan, there is no longer a Conservative Association in the town. The sponge was drawn over the name at a meeting the other evening and Unionist written in. We confess we are sorry to find the old historical title discarded for a name which is quite as applicable to the one political party as the other.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 February 1901

WERE THE PUBLIC HOUSES REALLY CLOSED?
The announced intention to close their places of business all day on Saturday (2 February 1901) was interpreted by some of the publicans of Ardrossan and Saltcoats as applying only to their front doors. Their back doors were wide enough to let in a good many patrons anxious to drown their sorrow. The 'open door' policy would have been preferable to such an interpretation of their own declaration.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 February 1901

ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS LIBERAL CLUBS MEET AT BILLIARDS
Ardrossan Liberal Club and Saltcoats Liberal Club meet in a billiard match in Ardrossan Liberal Club Rooms tomorrow (9 February 1901), eight players a side. The game begins in the early evening. Next week, we'll tell you how it ends.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 February 1901

ARDROSSAN LIBERAL CLUB BEAT SALTCOATS LIBERAL CLUB AT BILLIARDS
Teams representing Ardrossan and Saltcoats Liberal Clubs met in the rooms of the Ardrossan Club on Saturday last (9 February 1901) and played a friendly match. The conditions were eight players a side and the game 150 up. In a few of the games, some good play was exhibited on both sides. The home team emerged victorious by 129 of a majority, the scores being Ardrossan 1118, Saltcoats, 989. A return match is to be arranged at an early date.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 February 1901

ARDROSSAN GOOD TEMPLARS JOLLIFICATION
Ardrossan Good Templars have a jollification tonight (15 February 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 February 1901

NO MEMORIAL WINDOW FOR QUEEN VICTORIA
At Ardrossan Saint John's Church social meeting, ex-Bailie Harvey threw out a suggestion that a memorial window for Queen Victoria might be placed in the church by some generous donor or donors.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 February 1901

ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS INFECTIOUS HOSPITAL OPENS
The new Infectious Hospital has just been opened for the reception of patients at Springvale. The site lies about equidistant from the centres of the Burghs, is well situated on the higher ground behind Saltcoats and has a pleasant southern exposure. The buildings are four in number and designed to accommodate normally fourteen patients and the necessary staff. In the event of an epidemic, however, this number may be doubled without unduly overcrowding the wards.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 February 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY BURNS SUPPER
On Wednesday evening (13 February 1901), in the premises of the president Mr Angus McLean, the members of the Literary Society held their annual Burns supper. The president occupied the chair and Captain Shields ably acted as croupier. There was a good attendance. An excellent repast was purveyed by Mr Robert Craig. The King, Queen And Royal Family was given by the chairman in fitting terms. The croupier gave The Army, Navy And Imperial Forces and Sergeant Allan made neat acknowledgement. Mr Stanley G A Slater was entrusted with Our Town And Trade and proposed the toast in a very able manner, Councillor Crawford replying in like fashion. The chairman proposed The Immortal Memory in a characteristic speech in the course of which he gave a pleasing manifestation of a favourite study in an estimation of the poet's characteristics based upon a representation on the features of the Bard which had come under the speaker's observation.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 February 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.
There were references to Ardrossan Burns Club and Burns Suppers in the Heralds of 27 January 1877, 5 January 1878, 2 February 1878, 4 February 1882, 10 February 1893, 31 January 1896 and 21 January 1898.

VOLUNTEERS' PRESENTATION TO SERGEANT DODDS
During the past few months, a gymnastic class for members of the Volunteers in Ardrossan has been conducted in the Drill Hall (shown below in 1974) which is well equipped as a gymnasium. The class has been well attended and under the instruction of Sergeant William Dodds of the local company of the Artillery, the members have derived both pleasure and benefit from the class. The painstaking and efficient manner in which the instructor has carried out the work for no other reward than the satisfaction afforded by the beneficial results of his efforts, so impressed the members of the class that they determined to show their appreciation on a tangible form. This was done in a pleasant little gathering in the Drill Hall on Tuesday evening (12 February 1901) when in the name of the class, Sergeant Dodds was presented with a handsome gold-mounted umbrella. The members present contributed to the enjoyment of the evening in a very capable manner.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 February 1901

JOHN KERR

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 February 1901

RISING PREACHER IN ARDROSSAN
The Reverend S G McLennan, Glasgow, who preaches in Saint John's, Ardrossan (shown below in 1913) on Sunday (24 February 1901) appears in the current British Monthly as one of the rising preachers of the United Free Church.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 February 1901

STEAMER FROM ARDROSSAN LOST AT SEA
The steamer Lucerne, Ardrossan to Saint John's, Newfoundland has been lost with all hands in Trinity Bay. The crew of twenty-four belonged to Newfoundland.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 February 1901

COLLECTION FOR FOOTBALL
Football is going strong in the neighbourhood just now. 'Please help the White Rose to get a ball. Pence makes shillings makes pounds - signed by the club' was the heading of a subscription sheet presented by a coming international about three feet in height to householders
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 February 1901

MR ROBERT YOUNG DELIVERS PAPER TO ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY
Mr Robert Young was essayist at Tuesday's meeting (19 February 1901) of Ardrossan Literary Society. He delivered an admirable paper on The Industrial Development In The Last Century And The Race For Supremacy In The Present. The paper was very instructive and highly appreciated.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 February 1901

ARDROSSAN HARBOUR BILL
The Ardrossan Harbour Bill passed the standing orders on Monday (25 February 1901)
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 March 1901

ARDROSSAN RECHABITES FESTIVAL
In the Town Hall tonight (1 March 1901), the Ardrossan Rechabites hold their annual festival.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 March 1901

ARDROSSAN SERGEANT JOINS GLASGOW YEOMANRY
Sergeant John MacDowall, High Boydston, and well-known member of the Ardrossan Company of Volunteer Artillery has joined the Glasgow Yeomanry. He left Glasgow on Tuesday evening (26 February 1901) for Aldershot in charge of one hundred and six men.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 March 1901

FORMER ARDROSSAN MAN JOINS YEOMANRY
Mr Alex McKellar formerly of Ardrossan and recently manager of one of Messrs Thomas Neilson and Son's shops in Glasgow has joined the Yeomanry and left for his country's service in South Africa.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 March 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - WATER STOP-COCKS
A new phase of the water question came under my notice the other day. Twice I have had occasion to have the water turned off at my property in Princes Lane, doing it myself. Yesterday, a plumber was called in. The man had absolutely no idea where to find the stop-cock. It is placed outside the pavement altogether. Surely I am entitled to expect that the Commissioners should place the stop-cock in the pavement where it may be easily accessible at any time.
Proprietor
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 March 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - WATER STOP-COCKS
In answer to the letter which appeared in your last issue signed by the proprietor of property in Princes Lane and in which he says the plumber who had no idea where the stop-cock was, permit me to say that it was the proprietor who had no idea as to where to find the stop-cock and further that it was impossible for him to turn water off this branch by means of the stop-cock by means of which he said it could be done.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

LIBERAL CLUBS MEET AT BILLIARDS
Saltcoats and Ardrossan Liberal Clubs meet in the return billiard match at Saltcoats tomorrow on (9 March 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

ARDROSSAN SERGEANT JOINS GLASGOW YEOMANRY
Sergeant John MacDowall, Ardrossan, who was a sergeant who was a sergeant in the local Artillery Company before joining the Imperial Yeomanry, retains his rank in the mounted body. He is now training at Aldershot for South Africa.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

ARDROSSAN SHAKESPEARE READING CLUB
The Ardrossan Shakespeare Reading Club brought its fourth session to a close on Monday evening (4 March 1901). The enthusiasm of its member ship of forty-two is undiminished. The great dramatist's works formed the backbone of the reading session but plays by Schiller, Massinger, Tobin, Beaumont and Fletcher and Sheridan have also contributed to the programme. During the season, Sir Henry Irving evidence his interest in the welfare of the Club by promising the secretary of some of the copyright plays in his repertoire and it hoped that advantage may be taken next session of this handsome offer.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

ARDROSSAN RECHABITES ANNUAL SOCIAL
On Friday evening (1 March 1901), the members of the local Tent of Rechabites and their friends met in the Town Hall, Ardrossan (shown below in the early 1890s and early 1910s and as the Masonic Hall in 2003), the occasion being the annual social. There was very gratifying turnout. Brother Robert Craig, Chief Ruler, occupied the chair and with him on the platform were representatives from Saltcoats, Stevenston and West Kilbride. After tea, purveyed in a very satisfactory manner, the chairman introduced the concert program.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN CURLING CLUB HONOURS SECRETARY
The excellent services rendered to the Ardrossan Curling Club by Mr William Bryce, its able secretary, were suitably recognised last night (7 March 1901) when that gentleman was entertained to a complimentary dinner by the Club in the Eglinton Hotel (shown below in the early 1960s). There was a good company, numbering about thirty, presided over by Major Hogarth.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ACCIDENT AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
Yesterday forenoon (7 March 1901), as the steamship Hermia was leaving the docks (shown below in the early 1900s), one of her crew met with an accident. The vessel, on her way out, was coming down on Winton Pier, when William Williamson, forty-five, boatswain, went to the side of the ship to put down a fender. When the vessel touched the pier, Williamson lost his balance and fell heavily on to the quay. He was badly stunned but no bones were broken. He was conveyed on a stretcher to Barr Lane where he had been staying and is, we understand, recovering.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

FAREWELL TO HERALD JOURNALIST
Mr T B Cockburn, who has been associated with the Herald for a number of years, is to be entertained in the Eglinton Hotel tonight, Friday (8 March 1901) and made the recipient of a token of the community's respect for him as an individual and appreciation for his helpfulness professionally and as a townsman. Mr Cockburn sails for America on Saturday (9 March 1901) and the meeting tonight takes the form of a God-speed. The arrangements are in the hands of an energetic and representative committee with Mr Arthur Craig, solicitor, honorary secretary and treasurer and we understand the function will be of the nature of a cake and wine banquet.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY
The usual weekly meeting of the Society was held in the Saint John's Church Hall on Tuesday evening (5 March 1901), Mr A Crawford in the chair. A paper entitled Criticism Criticised was read by Mr S Slater. The essayist characteristically dealt in an able and comprehensive manner with the art and function of criticism and its place in the literary world pointing out the main qualifications and duties of a critic. The paper was an introspective one and was well-received and favourably commented on in the discussion. Next week important business falls to be discuss and as paper will be delivered treating of the political and social problems of the day.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

ARDROSSAN CYCLING CLUB FIRST ANNUAL MEETING
The first annual meeting of the Ardrossan Cycling Club was held on Friday 15 February. The treasurer reported that there was a balance for the year of £4 0s 2d. The following office bearers were elected: patrons - the honourable Thomas Cochrane, member of parliament (shown below in about 1900) and Mr Lewis Porter; honorary president - Dr Macdonald; honorary vice-president - Mr Gavin Thomson; captain - Mr D McInnes; sub-captain - Mr William Craig; treasurer - Mr Robert Shaw; secretary and Scottish Cyclists' Union delegate - Mr George Thomson; committee - Messrs H Fullerton, H Crawford, J Love, J Stewart and D McDowall. The Club is again affiliated to the Scottish Cyclists' Union and intending members are requested to communicate with the secretary.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 March 1901

ARDROSSAN NAMES OF ROLL OF QUEEN'S BURGHERS
A number of Ardrossan names appear upon the Evening News Roll of Queen's Burghers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

ANDREW MELVILLE, THE SCOTTISH REFORMER
Andrew Melville, the Scottish Reformer, is the subject of a special lecture by the Reverend R Adamson in Saint John's Church , Ardrossan on Sunday evening (17 March 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

LETTER A WITH NO CROSS-STROKE
A visitor to Ardrossan is curious to the number of shop signs in which the letter A has no cross-stroke. Such As, he opines, are so numerous that their ubiquity is become an infection of the town.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE MAN MOVES TO DUMFRIESSHIRE
Mr Davis Maxwell, late of the Ardrossan Cooperative Society's grocery department, has this week, his many friends will be pleased to learn, entered upon the duties of manager of the Cooperative Society, Carron Bridge, Dumfriesshire.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

FOUR LITTLE SONGSTERS AT ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB
At Ardrossan Bowling Club (shown below in 2010) on 22 February, a Scotch fancy canary presented her owner, the greenkeeper, with four little songsters. How is this for an early nesting? They are all doing well.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - ARDROSSAN, SALTCOATS AND STEVENSTON CHORAL AND ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY
Saltcoats, 11 March 1901
As a constant reader of the Herald and one very much interested in the work of Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Choral and Orchestral Society, kindly allow me to make a suggestion which the committee of this Society might consider and if favourable adopt by another session. Seeing there are as many honorary members as fill more than three-fourths of the Town Hall, would it not be possible to arrange a second concert whereby all lovers of music in the district could have the opportunity of attending. I am certain that the Hall could be filled a second time.
Yours et cetera
W A
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

MAHATMAS IN ARDROSSAN
On Monday evening (11 March 1901), Dr Ormonde and party gave an excellently varied and highly appreciated entertainment in the Assembly Hall, Ardrossan (shown in 1974 at the left of the photograph below). Two hours were passed very pleasantly by an audience that filled the Hall and Doctor Ormonde is certain of a favourable reception whenever he thinks fit to visit Ardrossan.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

FINED FOR FAILING TO EDUCATE
Two school board case came before Mr R L Alpine, Justice of the Peace, at Ardrossan on Monday (11 March 1901). An Ardrossan labourer, for failing to provide education for his son, was fined 10/- with 10/- of expenses. This was his second offence. A seaman of Saltcoats, for a similar offence, was fined 10/- with 10/- expenses. Fines were paid.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

SALTCOATS LIBERAL CLUB BEATS ARDROSSAN LIBERAL CLUB AT BILLIARDS
Teams representing Ardrossan and Saltcoats Liberal Clubs met on Saturday evening last (9 March 1901) in Saltcoats Liberal Club Rooms to play off their return match. It will be remembered that a few weeks ago the Ardrossan Club beat their opponents by 129 points. Since then, the Saltcoats players have had a desire to reverse this state of matters. Both teams were slightly altered and although it cannot be said that any of the 'new 'uns' beat their opponents, they, nevertheless, made a fairly creditable show. The conditions were eight players a side and the game 150 up. On both sides at times, some excellent play was exhibited. At one time it looked as if Ardrossan team were again going to assert their superiority for after the first four games had been played, they were nine shots to the good. After this, Saltcoats had some big 'kills' and the match finished in favour of the home club by the handsome majority of 111 points. The scores were Saltcoats 1111, Ardrossan 1000. Both teams afterwards met in the Station Temperance Hotel, Saltcoats where after an excellent tea, a pleasant hour was spent in song and sentiment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901

ARDROSSAN GOOD TEMPLARS' SOIREE
On Friday evening last (8 March 1901), the members attending the Ardrossan Lifeboat Lodge of Good Templars were entertained to a soiree and concert in the Good Templar's Hall (shown below as the Gospel Hall in 2002). Brother Ramsay, District Chief Templar, Dalry presided and was accompanied on the platform by Brother Walker P C T, Ardrossan. Besides the little ones, there was so large a turnout of adult members that the hall was completely filled.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 March 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
This Club held its annual meeting on Monday last (18 March 1901) when the following office bearers were appointed for the ensuing year: president - Mr James Newbigging, junior; vide presidents - Messrs Thomas Guthrie and W Fotheringham; secretary - Mr J M Comrie; treasurer - Mr J H Murray; committee Dr McClymont, Messrs Thomas Harvey, J S Barbour, William Young, D K Mill and G Guthrie. Syllabus will shortly be issued with proposed rambles and papers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 March 1901

DANCING EXHIBITION
Tonight, Friday (22 March 1901), Mr D McGreish, teacher of dancing, brings his classes to a close by an exhibition in the Assembly Hall, Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

ADAMS

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

ARDROSSAN ROWING CLUB?
Troon Rowing club is setting about its arrangements for the season. What about Ardrossan's?
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

STEAMSHIP LAUNCHED AT ARDROSSAN
The steamship Silver City will be launched from the yard of the Ardrossan Drydock and Shipbuilding Company tomorrow forenoon (30 March 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

AMATEUR DRAMATIC ENTERTAINMENT
An amateur dramatic entertainment, under he auspices of the local lodge of the I O G T will be given in the Assembly Hall tomorrow night (30 March 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

CANTATA POSTPONED
The cantata, A Day With Our Lord, which the musical association connected with the Ardrossan Evangelical Union Congregational Church (shown below as the Winton Rovers' Club in 1974) intended giving on Wednesday night (3 April 1901) has been postponed owing to Miss Dullan's recital falling on the same night.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

THIEF JAILED FOR FOURTEEN DAYS
On Monday afternoon (25 March 1901), a man was observed from Glasgow Street coming over the boundary wall at the Castle Hill (shown below left in 2006) with some articles in his possession which, it was believed, had been stolen from the bleaching green on the Hill. He got away while information was being sent to the police. From the description given, it was suspected that this was one of several 'hard cases' camped on the North Shore (shown below right in 2004). The police went there on Monday evening and did not find him. At two o'clock on the following morning, they paid a surprise visit to the camp and got their man. The articles stolen were two bedsheets and a nightshirt and no doubt, considering the weather, the camp needed them. However, the thief will have more comfortable quarters for fourteen days.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

IN MEMORIAM - MR JOHN ALLISON, ARDROSSAN
Mr John Allison, died at his residence, Princes Street, Ardrossan (shown below left in the mid 1910s) yesterday morning (28 March 1901). The end came with startling suddenness to a life beyond the allotted span and the news was received throughout the town and neighbourhood with surprise and deep regret. Mr Allison was one of the town's landmarks. Though not a native, having been born in Stevenston in 1825, Mr Allison was for so long identified with Ardrossan that he was invariably bracketed with the seniors who deserve well of the present generation for the care and attention they gave to the development of the town. For a long period, Mr Allison was connected with the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company, retiring from the service some twenty years ago. Assisted by his family, he commenced the business of draper and clothier and by industry and enterprise, succeeded in creating a large an successful concern. He had a wide circle of friends and it is indicative of his character that for many years he maintained communication made with the gradually decreasing coterie of the companions of his youth who had gone to all parts of the world. In all public matters, Mr Allison took an intelligent and enlightened view. He did not aspire to office but candidates and representatives could always count on his support provided their alms were directed towards the moral and social betterment of the community. The Free Church Scotland had no more devoted a member than the deceased and the congregation in Ardrossan will miss his wise counsel and generous support. As we have said, death came to him unexpectedly from failure of the heart's action. For a few days past, he had suffered from congestion of the lungs but was well enough to be in his place of business on Wednesday (27 March 1901). It is something more than coincidence that two weeks ago it was our painful duty to record equally sudden death of Mr Allison's son-in-law, Captain McGill of Liverpool. The funeral, which has been fixed for Saturday (30 March 1901) at half past two o'clock, will be a public one thus affording Mr Allison's many friends a last opportunity of testifying their regard to his memory and their sympathy of those who are left to mourn his loss.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901
John Allison's gravestone in Ardrossan Cemetery is shown above right. The inscription is ' Erected by John Allison in loving memory of his wife Marion Thom who died 21 November 1891 aged 67; their daughter Susan, wife of Captain Andrew Slater who died at sea 4 May 1879 aged 31 and is interred in Rangoon; their granddaughter, Susan Slater died at Moulmien 4 August 1879; their son Alexander died 19 February 1883, aged 27; the above John Allison died 28 March 1901, aged 75; his sons, James died 22 January 1905, aged 39, interred at Rothesay; Robert died 6 June 1909, aged 39; John died 6 June 1909, aged 48; their daughters, Marion, widow of Captain James McGill, died 8 March 1920 aged 66; Esther, widow of John Stitt, died 1 February 1938 aged 80; Elizabeth, widow of William Penman, died 2 February 1939 aged 76; Helen, last surviving member of their family, died 12 November 1939 aged 90'.

FORTY YEARS OF ARDROSSAN PUBLIC HEARSE
It is now over forty years since the public hearse was instituted in Ardrossan. It was on Friday 22 March 1861 that a meeting was held and the purchase of a hearse decided upon. The sum of £82 had been subscribed and the committee then appointed consisted of Messrs Boyd, Willock, Duncan, Wilson, Shearer and Barclay. The present committee met in the Lesser Hall, Bute Place on Saturday evening last (23 March 1901) when Mr James Fullerton, treasurer submitted his report. The accounts should a balance in favour of the Society of £53. Office bearers for the ensuing year were elected as follows: Mr William Guthrie - chairman, Mr James Fullerton - treasurer, Mr John Smith - auditor and Mr H Gemmell - secretary.
Votes of thanks were awarded and the meeting closed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 March 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN LEAVES FOR SOUTH AFRICA
Mr James Quin left Ardrossan for South Africa on Sunday evening last (31 March 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 April 1901

MUSIC IN SAINT JOHN'S CHURCH
Some fine vocal and instrumental music is promised in Saint John's, Ardrossan tonight (5 April 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 April 1901

EASTER HOLIDAYS
The schools under the Ardrossan School Board closed yesterday (4 April 1901) for the Easter holidays.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 April 1901

ARDROSSAN SHIPYARD
Ardrossan Shipyard is brisk at present. Repair work has become a feature in the business of the local yard.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 April 1901

ARDROSSAN BOYS BRIGADE
Last night (4 April 1901), in the Drill Hall, the Boys Brigade assembled for the annual inspection. Considerable public interest was manifested. The Company is a smart one and presented a first-class appearance. The boys went through the drill in a very creditable manner which was to be anticipated as they were instructed by Sergeant Major Ferris.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 April 1901

LAUNCH FROM ARDROSSAN SHIPBUILDING COMPANY
On the forenoon of Saturday last (30 March 1901), there was launched from the yard of the Ardrossan Drydock and Shipbuilding Company Limited a steel screw coasting steamer, the Silver City. The weather conditions were decidedly favourable and a good number of townspeople witnessed the launching ceremony.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 April 1901

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB ANNUAL MEETING
The annual meeting of the members of the Ardrossan Bowling Club was held on Tuesday evening (2 April 1901). Mr F H Gillies, retiring president, occupied the chair and there was good turnout of members. Mr T T Wylie, treasurer, who had also acted as secretary for some time prior to the close of last season, submitted the annual reports after minutes of the last meeting had been read and approved. The reports showed that in the matches, the Club had done fairly well.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 April 1901

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
Ardrossan Town Council met in the Council Chambers, Kilmahew, on Monday evening (8 April 1901). Provost Young occupied the chair and there were also present Bailie Smith, Councillors Barrie, Guthrie, Harvey, Hogarth and Crawford. Minutes were read and approved. From minute, it appeared that the committee reporting on the condition of South Beach Green had come to the conclusion that it would be injudicious to spend money on it unless arrangements could be made with Lord Eglinton for the transference of the ground to the Council. The committee recommended that Lord Eglinton's Commissioner be communicated with on the subject of the acquisition of the ground by the Town Council.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 April 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

DANCING ON SOUTH BEACH GREEN
Al fresco dances are becoming popular on the South Beach Green at Ardrossan. A concertinist supplies the music.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 April 1901

BODY FOUND IN EGLINTON DOCK
The body of a Saltcoats labourer, who has been missing since 18 February, was found in the Eglinton Dock on Tuesday morning (9 April 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 April 1901

ARDROSSAN LIBERAL CLUB
The members of Ardrossan Liberal Club 'smoke' tonight in the Clubrooms when occasion will be taken to present one of its members with a token of regard. A large attendance of members and friends is requested.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 April 1901

ARDROSSAN CYCLE CLUB
The opening run of the Ardrossan Cycle Club will be to Kilwinning on Wednesday 24 April starting from Princes Street at 7 pm. On reaching Kilwinning, a social meeting will take place in one of the hotels there. A large turnout of members and friends is expected.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 April 1901

THREE ARDROSSAN BOYS SENT TO REFORMATORY
There was a 'send-off' at Ardrossan on Monday afternoon (15 April 1901). The occasion was the departure for the Reformatory of three Ardrossan boys who had been convicted of iron stealing and egg-lifting operations. Five years was the sentence. One was taken to Glasgow and two to Stranraer.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 April 1901

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL
Ardrossan Town Councillors heaped coals of fire upon the Ardrossan Harbour Company on Monday evening (15 April 1901). At the Company's request, they agreed to petition Parliament to refuse permission to the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company to become proprietors of Troon Harbour, this too, in face of the fact that the Ardrossan Harbour Company are the only opponents to their Gas and Water Bill provisional order. This opposition arises, we presume, from a fear of having to pay more for their water and involves the town in extra judicial expenses and the proposal to petition, provided the opposition be withdrawn, was not an unreasonable one. It is not too late for the Company to show its appreciation of the Council's magnanomy.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 April 1901

MACARA'S TEA

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 April 1901

YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION JUMBLE SALE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 April 1901

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB
Tomorrow (27 April 1901), the Ardrossan bowling green will be opened for the season.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 April 1901

ARDROSSAN CYCLING CLUB
Ardrossan Cycling club had an pleasant run on Wednesday evening (24 April 1901). There was an encouraging turnout.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 April 1901

FORMER ARDROSSAN ACADEMY PUPIL PASSES EXAMINATIONS
E E Robbins junior, formerly a pupil at the Ardrossan Academy (shown below as the ruins of Saint Peter's School in 2002) and now residing in the Dominion of Canada, has successfully passed the junior examinations of the Ontario Veterinary College, Toronto, Ontario. He gained first prize, a silver medal, in anatomy and honours in each of the other subjects.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 April 1901

SILVER CITY RETURNS TO ARDROSSAN
The Silver City returned to Ardrossan this week.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

LAUNCH AT ARDROSSAN SHIPYARD
There is to be a launch at the shipyard on Monday afternoon (6 May 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

ARDROSSAN TEACHER APPOINTED TO COATBRIDGE
Miss Maggie Aird, Ardrossan has been appointed assistant teacher under the old Monklands Coatbridge School Board.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

TOWN COUNCIL ACCOUNTS AUDITED
The accounts of Ardrossan, Irvine, Kilwinning and Largs Town Councils are to be audited by Mr Thomas Smith, Invernay, Skelmorlie.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

ARRAN SAILINGS RESUME
On Wednesday (1 May 1901), the Caledonian pennant was again hoisted at Ardrossan for the season while the Duchess of Hamilton resumed the Arran runs.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

ARDROSSAN SCHOOL BOARD BLUNDER
Last month, the Ardrossan School Board was concerned about the reported absence of one hundred and forty-three Academy pupils on the day of the meeting. The actual number was fifty-seven. Somebody blundered.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

RUNAWAY HORSE IN ARDROSSAN
A runaway horse made some people in Glasgow Street (shown below in the early 1900s) try their paces on Wednesday (1 May 1901). It was a fine animal and led easily till it came to the wall bounding the railway at the end of Harbour Street (shown below right in 2002).

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

SMACK RUNS AGROUND AT ARDROSSAN
Lord Eglinton, a smack struck one of the numerous rocks between the breakwater (shown below left in 2012) and the Horse Island (shown below right in 2011) last Friday (26 April 1901) and went down. The little vessel has been raised and beached. She was light at the time.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN PASSES ENGINEER EXAMINATION

Mr Alexander Stirrat, who served his apprenticeship with Provost Young, Ardrossan and who during his apprenticeship gave evidence to his employer of possessing more than average ability coupled with personality and push has successfully passed the Board of Trade examination for extra first-class engineer.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

PRESENTATION TO ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS HERALD MAN
On the occasion of his leaving Ardrossan to take up a post in British Guiana, Mr Alex Farquhar, who for some time had been on the press staff of the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald was on Tuesday (30 April 1901) made the recipient of a token of the good wishes of his fellow workers. Mr John Glen made the presentation in excellent terms and Mr Farquhar made suitable acknowledgement.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

RAILWAY FARES REDUCED
The railway companies are running cheap fares to Glasgow's big show, single fare and quarter being charged for the return journey. This brings the price of a ticket from Ardrossan down from 2/6 to 2/5 and a few folk looked a bit surprised when they got the odd one penny handed back to them yesterday morning (2 May 1901). This penny certainly does not count for much in the present modern day living but it will always pay the car fare to Kelvingrove.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 May 1901

ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE SOCIETY LIMITED
In the Good Templars' Hall on Friday evening (3 May 1901), the one hundred and twenty-third quarterly meeting of the above Society was held. The meeting was the largest and most enthusiastic held for some time. Mr R Alexander presided. The minute of the last quarterly meeting was read and adopted. Minutes of council meetings held during the quarter were read and approved of.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 May 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

LAUNCH AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
On Monday afternoon (6 May 1901), in presence of a good number of people, the steamer Hurlford was launched from the yard of the Ardrossan Drydock and Shipbuilding Company Limited. The Hurlford is a steel screw coasting steamer built to the order of Messrs Mann, MacNeal and Company, Glasgow, for whom the same builders constructed the steamer Glasford.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 May 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD
Here's a lead for the Ardrossan Town Council and School Board - Prestwick School Board have resolved to print their minutes.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 May 1901

YOUNG MENS' CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION EXHIBITION AND SALE OF WORK

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 May 1901

MEDICAL OFFICERS WANTED FOR ARDROSSAN

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 May 1901

CHARLES GALLACHER - TAILOR AND CLOTHIER

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 May 1901

JAMES WATSON - GROCERY, TEA, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANT


           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 May 1901

PUBLIC SALE OF HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

RUNAWAY HORSE
On Tuesday afternoon (14 May 1901), a horse yoked to one of the wagonettes which run between Saltcoats and Ardrossan got a fright as a lorry was passing it and ran off. The driver, Joseph Baird, Townhead, Stevenston, in attempting to stop the animal, was knocked down and the wheels of the vehicle passed over his legs and bruised them. The horse ran along Hamilton Street, Caledonia Road, Argyle Road, Gladstone Road and finally was brought to a standstill in Parkend Road. The wagonette was not much damaged.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

BOAT-HIRERS START BUSINESS
Both in Ardrossan and Saltcoats, boat-hirers have commenced business for the season.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

ARDROSSAN CRICKETERS DO WELL
All things considered, the young Ardrossan cricketers did very well indeed last Saturday (11 May 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

SHIP GOES ASHORE
The Portugalete, a frequent visitor to Ardrossan, has gone ashore between Sandtander and Saint Nazaire.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

BISHOP OF GLASGOW IN SAINT ANDREW'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
The Bishop of Glasgow conducted services in Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church, Ardrossan (shown below in 2002) on Sunday (12 May 1901).

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

ARDROSSAN COUNCILLORS VISIT GLENGALL ASYLUM
Ardrossan Parish Councillors are going to Glengall Asylum in June. They are going to see how the patients from this district are progressing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN DOES WELL IN CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATION
Mr L Fullerton, youngest son of Mr James Fullerton, ironmonger, Ardrossan, occupies the one hundred and fifth place on the list of two hundred successful candidates at the Civil Service examination held some weeks ago and open to the United Kingdom.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

ARDROSSAN TO BELFAST STEAMER
The Adder will make her first run between Ardrossan and Belfast on 23 May. On the twenty-seventh, the same steamer will convey to Ardrossan about one thousand Belfast grocers, wives and sweethearts en route for the Glasgow Exhibition.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

PLEASURE BOATS AT THE INCHES
The pleasure boats have reappeared at The Inches (shown below in 2003) and people who desire to test their respiratory apparatus might do worse than try to break the record for the run to the Campbell Rock and back (shown in the map below). We hope to be notified of such an event.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

RAILWAY ANOMALY
Another railway anomaly. If a person takes a return ticket from Saltcoats for Stewarton, the fare is the same as from Ardrossan but if he uses the return half, he must pay an extra penny to get to Ardrossan notwithstanding the fact that he has had to drive to Stewarton through the train being too late for the connection at Kilmarnock.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 May 1901

APPOINTMENT OF KEEPER OF ARDROSSAN CANNON HILL
At a special meeting of the Works Committee of Ardrossan Town Council last night (23 May 1901), Alexander Wilson was appointed from among a number of applicants Keeper of the Cannon Hill (shown below in 2005).

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 May 1901

REVEREND WILSON'S REMAINS TRAVEL TO BELFAST
The remains of the Reverend W E Wilson who was killed while cycling near Wishaw last Friday (17 May 1901) passed through Ardrossan to Belfast on Tuesday night (21 May 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 May 1901

ARDROSSAN AND BELFAST DAYLIGHT SERVICE
The advent of the summer excursion season is now being announced by the various steamboat companies and in this respect, it will be seen from our advertising columns that the Ardrossan and Belfast daylight service conducted by Messrs Burns' popular RMS Adder will be commenced for the season on Saturday 1 June. This splendid steamer, which for speed and comfort has few equals, provides the tourist or businessman with a convenient and expeditious means of crossing channel and the ever-increasing numbers who daily patronise this popular and well-conducted service during the summer months show in a marked degree how it is appreciated by the travelling public.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 May 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

IVANHOE RELIEVES DUCHESS OF HAMILTON
The Ivanhoe relieved the Duchess of Hamilton on the Ardrossan and Arran run yesterday (30 May 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 May 1901

FAMILIES LEAVE ARDROSSAN
About a dozen families, it is said, have removed from Ardrossan within the past four months.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 May 1901

HORSE HAS A SIT DOWN
Yesterday (30 May 1901), one of the horses running wagonettes betwixt Saltcoats and Ardrossan sat down in Hamilton street and refused to budge. Another vehicle was provided for the passengers who were scared stiff.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 May 1901

ARDROSSAN FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CONTRACTOR
Mr George McKellar has been appointed for a year contractor of vegetables and fruit to His Majesty's warships visiting this locality. Last week, Mr McKellar supplied over 44000 lb of vegetables to the fleet at Lamlash.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 May 1901

CONGRATULATIONS TO ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB
Regarding the Ardrossan - West Kilbride game last week, the Ardrossan Club has to be congratulated on its splendid victory. The victory is all the more credible when it is taken into account that five out of the six skips representing Ardrossan beat their opponents. In some cases, the individual majorities were pretty large but that does not account for any inferiority in the play of the visitors who were just a little unlucky at times. Let us hope that this initial success will inspire the local club to further victories in the matches which it is to take part in during the season.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 May 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN GUILTY OF WIFE ASSAULT
At Ardrossan Burgh Court on Monday (27 May 1901), Provost Young on the bench, a moulder of Harbour Lane (shown below as Herald Street in 2002) pled guilty to a charge of wife assault and was fined £2 with the alternative of one month in jail.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 May 1901

ARDROSSAN FARMERS' SOCIETY
The annual show of this Society, it is noted, is to be held on Saturday next, 15 June. In addition to the usual classes including a dog section, local housewives will have the opportunity of having the quality of their cakes, scones and pancakes judged. A good show is expected.


            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 June 1901

PROMOTED TO REGIMENTAL SERGEANT-MAJOR
Company Sergeant-Major F Ferries, R A has been promoted by Colonel J G Sturrock to the rank of Regimental Sergeant-Major. Shake, old man!
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 June 1901

DYING WAITING FOR A TRAIN?
The irregularity of the train service between Ardrossan and Glasgow is the occasion for the resuscitation of a number of old but trite chestnuts such, for example, as the story of the man who went to commit suicide on the company's main line and how, finding the train was late, he lay down on the bank to wait for it and died of starvation. That might have happened on our local lines several times within the past few days.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 June 1901

ARDROSSAN BOYS' BRIGADE TREAT
Ardrossan Boys' Brigade have a special treat on for this afternoon.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

ARDROSSAN CURLING CLUB VERDICT
Ardrossan Curling Club has again secured the verdict in the legacy case.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

ARDROSSAN FOUNDRY TRIP
The Ardrossan Foundry folks had a trip to Lamlash last Saturday (8 June 1901) and enjoyed themselves immensely.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

ARDROSSAN GAS AND WATER ORDER CONFIRMATION BILL
Ardrossan Gas and Water Order Confirmation Bill was read a second time in the House of Commons on Monday (10 June 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN APPOINTED TO CENSUS OFFICE IN EDINBURGH
Mr Lennan Fullerton, Maryville, Ardrossan, whose success at a recent Civil Service examination was mentioned in this column, has been appointed to a post in the Census Office, Edinburgh.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

NEW JUVENILE LEAGUE?
There is some talk of a Juvenile League being formed in the district and we think the idea is a good one. There is a sufficient number of juvenile clubs in the towns of Ardrossan, Saltcoats, Stevenston and Kilwinning to warrant the formation of such a league and we hope the matter will not be allowed to drop. With such clubs as the Kilwinning Rangers, Ardeer Thistle, Auchenharvie Rangers, Ardeer Wanderers, Saltcoats Seaside Rangers, Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Ardrossan Celtic all in the swing, an interesting juvenile competition would be the result. Let us hope a move will be made at once with the venture and we feel sure the standard of juvenile football will improve in the district.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

ANY CLEAN WATER AROUND ARDROSSAN?
A local man wishes to know if there is a clean place to bath in off any part of the shores around Ardrossan. We couldn't say. A plunge might be possible off the Lighthouse Pier (shown below in 2011), that point being at least a respectable distance from the town's sewage outlets. It's 'Itchabod' now at The Inches.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

SAD BOATING ACCIDENT - FOUR YOUNG MEN DROWNED
On Sunday afternoon last (9 June 1901), a boating accident occurred off the harbour whereby four young men belonging to Ardrossan lost their lives. About noon on Sunday, a sailing boat containing eight persons left the harbour on a pleasure cruise. The weather, though dull, was then fairly good. After a cruise of about a couple of hours, a strong north-westerly breeze with heavy rain-squalls sprang up. The threatening weather constrained those in the boat to return and she was put about and ran for the harbour. When about four hundred yards west of the harbour and about forty yards south of the bell-buoy, a squall struck the boat and overturned her. The eight lads were thrown into the water and the boat immediately filled and sank. Some people on the pier-head at the lighthouse (shown above in 2011) witnessed the occurrence and shouted an alarm to the men in the pilot house. On the instant, Messrs Michael Coogan, Thomson Fleming, Daniel Taylor, Andrew Paton and Angus McLean manned the lifeboat and pulled with all speed towards the scene of the disaster. Within four minutes the rescue boat picked up the first the first of the survivors, Alex Morrison who was swimming towards the harbour and who made for the boat immediately he sighted it. Morrison was in a very exhausted condition. Continuing their exertions, the crew of the pilot boat, managed to reach and rescue another three of the lads who also were in state of collapse when pulled into the boat. The rescue crew, having made sure that there was no hope of saving any more of the lads and others having gone down, returned to the harbour without delay. The rescued were conveyed to the pilot house and every effort made on the behalf of the rescuers. Soon Doctors Allan and Macdonald were on the scene and their assistance was attended with success. The rescued are Alex Morrison, 18, Montgomerie Lane; Robert Kerr, Barr Lane; John Pettigrew, 16, Hill Street and Peter Murchie, 16, Harbour Buildings. It was ascertained that four lads had been drowned. Their names are Robert Pettigrew, 20, Hill Street, brother of one of the rescued; William Grier, 20, Harbour Place; William Nelson, 16, Harbour Buildings and David Robertson, 16, Harbour Houses, all Ardrossan. The pilot boat and another boat returned to the scene of the accident soon afterwards and the sunken boat having been located, a crane barge was sent out from which Mr William Hamilton, diver descended to the sea bottom. The diver could find no bodies in the vicinity of the boat. After several hours work, the boat was raised and brought into the harbour. None of the bodies have yet been recovered. Immediately the news of the sad occurrence spread, a great crowd congregated at the harbour and watched the operations connected with the lifting of the boat. When it was definitely ascertained that none of the bodies were entangled in the wreck, the crowd dispersed. Very great sympathy is felt for the bereaved. The death of the lad Robertson is felt greatly because of the fact that two of his brothers were drowned some years ago while a third succumbed to injuries received at a work on the harbour. Mr Robertson, father of the deceased, is much respected locally and to him the sympathy of the townspeople goes out. The disaster was keenly felt in Ardrossan causing heartfelt regret in the community. The young man, Pettigrew who was drowned was a player in the Ardrossan Celtic Football Club and William Greer who was also lost, was also connected with the club. Last night, a benefit match was played between the Celtic and the Seaside Rangers. Great praise is due to the men who manned the pilot boat with such promptitude and rescued the four lads. That the disaster was not of an even more serious character was due to the crew of the rescue boat.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 June 1901

BOATING DISASTER AT ARDROSSAN - FOUR YOUNG MEN DROWNED
One of the saddest boating disasters which has ever occurred in this district took place on Sabbath afternoon last (9 June 1901) just outside Ardrossan harbour. Eight young men - Alexander Morrison, 18, labourer, Montgomerie Lane; Robert Kerr, Barr Lane; John Pettigrew, 16, wagon greaser, Hill Street; Peter Murchie, 16, labourer, Harbour Buildings; Robert Pettigrew, 20 Hill Street; William Nelson, 16, labourer, Harbour Buildings; William Grier, 20, craneman, Harbour Place and George Robertson, 16, Harbour Houses had agreed to have a sail about the Firth and with this object, they left Ardrossan Harbour about half past eleven in the forenoon in a partly decked yacht rigged as a lug-sail with jib and currying about sixteen hundredweight of ballast consisting of pig-iron and stones. All went well and they had proceeded far out and a good bit up the Clyde, till the return journey when they were within two-hundred yards of Ardrossan Harbour when a violent gust of wind struck the boat wheeling it right round about and then over. With the exception of Alexander Morrison who, it is stated, was sitting below the deck, aft at the time, all the young men were thrown into the water. They climbed on to the upturned keel but in a few seconds, the boat sank from beneath them, leaving them struggling in the waves. The accident had been witnessed from the harbour, and in a few minutes, a boat managed by Michael Coogan, Thomson Fleming, Daniel Taylor, pilots, Andrew Paton, John Robertson, custom-house office and A McLean, oilskin maker, was on its way to the scene. They were successful in picking up four of the young men - Alexander Morrison, Robert Kerr, John Pettigrew and Peter Murchie. Of the others, no trace could be found. Morrison, who is an excellent swimmer, would in any case have safely reached the shore but the other three were picked up in a very exhausted condition, so much so that had the boat been a few minutes later they would almost of a certainty been drowned. On being landed, they were attended to by a number of those present, including Drs Allan and Macdonald. They have all made a satisfactory recovery. As soon as possible the tug-boat and a barge and crane were sent out in search of the bodies and the boat. A diver went down and after some time the boat was found, keel uppermost, firmly embedded in the sand. It was after considerable exertion raised to the surface but no trace of the bodies could be discovered. The boat was brought into the harbour. The operations of the search party were witnessed all day by large crowds of people. The operations were carried out under very trying conditions. A cold wind blew all afternoon while a heavy sea was running. The accident cast a gloom over the whole district and great sympathy is felt for the parents and relatives of the unfortunate lads. The case of Robertson's death, it is pointed out, is particularly sad. One of his brothers was drowned some years ago and another was killed in an accident at Ardrossan Harbour. Alexander Morrison, who was the first to be picked up, interviewed by our representative, says: We set sail about 11.30 for a cruise in the firth. The boat was a partly-decked yacht, rigged as a lug-sail with jib. She carried about sixteen or seventeen hundredweight of ballast made up of pig-iron and stones. When we started, the wind was on just a little, but when we got out past the lighthouse we got a better breeze. We went sailing away out towards Brodick, straight out and the wind changed. We then went sailing up along the island till opposite Seamill. We were becalmed there for about an hour then we saw the clouds were getting darker and thought it was going to rain so we thought we would turn. As we came to the south end of the Horse Isle, the wind got fresher and as we were nearing the bell buoy, we turned a little to clear it to starboard. Just then a gust of wind got up and blew us right over. We all got on to the top of the boat and in a few seconds, she sunk from beneath us. Then we said we would make for the shore. We shouted to them at the lighthouse to get a boat and they signalled back - Coming. we made for the shore. Greer took the lead. I followed. A little while after, I looked about for Grier but did not see him. Then I saw the pilot-boat coming and I shouted to the rest that the boat was coming but did not see any of them and I was picked up first. We went out a bit further and gripped three of them head down. They were John Pettigrew, Murchie, and Kerr. Another boat then came along and the pilots said they would turn with us as Pettigrew, Murchie and Kerr were very far through. We were then landed. Morrison further gives it as his opinion that Robertson went down with the boat as he was sitting below the deck aft time of the occurrence. He also states that Grier said something about taking off his coat in order that he might swim better. Whether he managed to do so or sank in the act is, of course, not known. Two of the unfortunate lads were prominent in local football circles. Robert Pettigrew was a member of the Celtic Football Club and he will be sadly missed. Only on Thursday night of last week, he played right-back for his team in their match with Seaside Rangers. Greer was one of the committee of the same club and took a great interest in its affairs. He also took considerable interest in boating and was one of the joint owners of the boat. With commendable promptitude and thought, the members of the Celtic Club have organised a series of benefit matches, the proceeds to be given to the relatives of the whole of the four young men drowned. It may also be stated that several of the other clubs in the district have generously placed their services at the disposal of the Celtic. The first of the matches took place on Thursday night (13 June 1901) between Celtic and Seaside Rangers. The others will be announced in due course. Up till the hour of going to press, no trace of the bodies had been found.
           
Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Standard, 15 June 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - THE BOATING FATALITY AT ARDROSSAN
17 June 1901
Sir
Having read in your issue of last week's Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald the report of the boating fatality, I regret that by an error or some omission, the name of Mr John Robertson, Customs Watcher was not mentioned in that report but in fairness to that gentleman I feel it is my duty to call your attention to the fact that, like Andrew Paton and myself, Mr Robertson was an eye-witness of the sad event and one of the rescue party. I cannot refrain from making a few remarks on the accident as I saw it happen. Mr Paton, Mr Robertson and myself were standing on the pier-head shortly after two o'clock last Sunday week (9 June 1901) watching and commenting on the handling of the boat. We knew nothing of its crew. It was patent, however, to anyone skilled in sailing lug-sail on open boats that the boat and party were in imminent danger. The boat was running before the wind at a fair pace just between the south end of the island and the bell-buoy with log-sail sheet well inboard on her port quarter. We remarked to each other with considerable alarm that a 'spill' was near at hand as we observed a squall coming down fast upon them which they evidently had not seen. Just then the wicked, black squall caught them and the sheet being fast and too much inboard, she gybed and in doing so took command, heeled over to port exactly as we had expected throwing the ill-fated crew into the water. Without a second's delay, we ran towards the pilot house, shouting as we ran to the pilots to get their boat ready. Messrs Coogan, Fleming, Thomson, D Taylor, Paton, Robertson and myself were in the boat in the shortest possible time and in about ten minutes were picking up some of the drowning youths. It was exciting work yet order prevailed on board. I shall not readily forget the frantic appeals Coogan made to us to "Pull for God's sake to the poor fellows" as his eye caught sight of the first-rescued Morrison who was swimming towards us crying "Help, help!" and the heroic and gallant work of the pilots as one by one the drowning youths were hauled in over the rail. Fortunately for the four young men who were rescued, there were eye-witnesses nearby that the pilots and their gallant craft were handy at the time for a few moments longer and three more at least would have been added as victims of the deep and a still deeper gloom would have passed over our already sorrowing town. In fact, I very much doubt if Morrison could have gained the shore judging from the exhausted condition in which we found him. I have said it was exciting work. It was also sad to think we were only able to rescue four while other four had gone to the bottom and were beyond or reach. It was with reluctant hearts we turned for the harbour from the vicinity of the fatal accident but not till we had assured ourselves that we had all on board who could be saved. Much credit is due to Mr Peter Kerr, grocer and other gentlemen whose names I do not know who assisted the pilots in manipulating the bodies of the rescued thanks to their ambulance training and were thus instrumental in restoring to sensibility the bodies of those who were more dead than alive before the doctors came upon the scene. Allow me to correct an error in your report regarding Mr Robertson who had one son drowned some years ago not two, one killed and one lost in the recent fatality as you have pointed out making a sad experience indeed to the family for whom much sympathy is felt. While open-boat sailing is a very pleasant pastime, healthful and manly exercise, it has its dangerous aspect also and I would point out to young men to have a training from experienced boat-sailors whose advice and practical instructions would stand them in good stead, especially in the hour of danger. I trust that our youths, out of memory to the boys who lost their lives, will avoid Sunday sailing and the inhabitants of our towns be spared the horror of witnessing another accident or boats sailing or pulling save where duty, not pleasure, calls
Yours respectfully
A McLean, senior
29 Harbour Street, Ardrossan
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

HERALD EMPLOYEES VISIT YON BONNY BANKS
The Herald employees visit 'Yon Bonny Banks' tomorrow (22 June 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

TROOPER REID RETURNS TO ARDROSSAN
Trooper Reid, Ardrossan, arrived back from the front on Monday evening (17 June 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

ARDROSSAN R M A C MEMBERS AT KROONSTAD
Ardrossan members of the R A M C are now at Kroonstad, putting in some work in the nursing line.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

JUNO SAILING
There were those in Ardrossan on Wednesday (19 June 1901) with hardihood enough to go a-sailing on the Juno. They took their pleasure sadly.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

ARDROSSAN SPORTS?
It is rumoured that some one or other of the local football clubs will hold sports this year, that is, if the Ardrossan Sports don't come off.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

ARDROSSAN FREE PRESBYTERY ORDINATIONS
Ardrossan United Free Presbytery has had quite a boom in ordinations this month - Whiting Bay, Brodick and last night (20 June 1901), Stevenston.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

SALVAGE SQUAD RETURNS HOME
The salvage squad, including some twenty-seven men belonging to Ardrossan and Saltcoats which left Greenock for San Domingo about two months ago is said to be on the way home, the sunken transport having gone to pieces.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

CAPTAIN HART PROMOTED
Ardrossan and Saltcoats friends of Captain C F Hart, late commander in the service of the British India Steam Navigation Company will be gratified to know that he has been appointed, out of fifty-two candidates, Dock Master for Cumberland Basin, Bristol Harbour. Captain Hart has had wide experience and was in command of the transport Lal Poora which conveyed troops to South Africa.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

ARDROSSAN PARISH CHURCH CASE - THE SHERIFF'S DECISION
In the Sheriff Court on Wednesday (19 June 1901), Sheriff Hall gave judgement in the appeal from the Presbytery of Irvine by the Reverend William Rossie Brown, Parish Minister of Ardrossan, against the heritors of that Parish to have it found that the Parish Church of Ardrossan had become dilapidated, unsafe and unsanitary and that it ought to be taken down and rebuilt. The Sheriff has dismissed the appeal and found the appellant liable in expenses.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN BOYS' BRIGADE MARCHES TO STEVENSTON
On Friday afternoon last (14 June 1901), the members of the Ardrossan Company of the Boys' Brigade marched from the Drill Hall to Stevenston, a halt being called when the Company had arrived in the grounds of Ardeer House. Through the kindness of Mr Laidlaw, the boys enjoyed a first class outing. The weather was good, the 'treat' substantial and unlimited and the arrangements perfect. Sports were held and these included a five-a-side tournament. Captain Murchie, First Ayrshire and Galloway Artillery Volunteers accompanied the Brigade. The boys were highly delighted with their outing.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

PRESENTATION TO MISS ELIZABETH SPENCE
A deputation from the Christian Endeavour Society of the Evangelical Union Congregational Church, Ardrossan waited upon Miss Elizabeth Spence at her residence in Saltcoats on Friday evening last (14 June 1901) and presented her with A silver salver and jelly-dish in the name of the church on the occasion of her marriage to the Reverend Matthew Roberts, late of Ardrossan. Miss Spence sails shortly for America leaving a large circle of friends to regret her going away. She has been a very earnest worker in the Christian cause, not confining her work to any special place, but working wherever she thought good might be done. All who knew them wish them every prosperity in their new home.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

ARDROSSAN FARMERS' SOCIETY ANNUAL SHOW
On Saturday last (15 June 1901), in a field at Burnfoot, North Crescent, kindly granted by Mr Hugh Hunter of Montfod, the annual show under the auspices of the Ardrossan Farmers' Society was held. The show comprised cattle, horses, sheep, dogs and dairy produce while there were the usual special attractions in hurdle-leaping and tug-of-war competitions. Good weather favoured the funcition. Both as to the number of entries and to the standard of the exhibits, the show was of a description which merited the encomiums of good judges and must have been most gratifying to the energetic secretary, Mr Arthur Craig, solicitor and the officials of the association. The entries in the cattle and horse sections were considerably in excess of those shown in the last few years and the quality of the animals shown was, in the opinion of the judges, exceptionally good.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN FOUND IN ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
On Friday afternoon last (14 June 1901), the body of a man was found in the Eglinton Dock, Ardrossan. It appeared to be that of a tramp labourer and had been in the water for some time. Nothing by which identity could be established could be found and on Saturday (15 June 1901), the remains were interred.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

SALVAGE SQUAD RETURNS HOME
The salvage squad, including some twenty-seven men belonging to Ardrossan and Saltcoats which left Greenock for San Domingo about two months ago is said to be on the way home, the sunken transport having gone to pieces.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

R S BARBOUR

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

JOHN GILFILLAN

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 June 1901

ALLISON'S

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - THE BOATING FATALITY AT ARDROSSAN
24 June 1901
Allow me to correct an error in my letter of 17 June where I said the boat 'gybed'. I should have said that the boat, when caught in the squall, was forced round and the full pressure of the wind, broad on the sail, heeled her over to port and she sank.
Yours
A McLean
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - ARDROSSAN SPORTS
Referring to the letters on the above subject which have already appeared in your columns, I would express the hope that sports will be held this year. I can heartily agree with the remarks of Linesman and Excelsior as to the advisability of holding sports and I am convinced that they would be very successful. Not for years has such keen interest in athletic matters been shown in this district as at present. Should sports be arranged for, as I and many others hope, I would suggest that a juvenile five-a-side competition be included in the programme. I am sure there would be a record entry. The preliminary ties could be played off prior to the sports day and the semi-final and final ties could be reserved for the day of the sports. From my experience of conducting such functions, I believe that entry fees and gate money would clear expenses given good weather. So far as the regatta is concerned, I am sure that races for ordinary four-oared boats would secure a good entry and the prospect of close finishes. There are not enough 'gigs' in this neighbourhood and those we have are not good enough to make a jolly boat race at all successful or even satisfactory. Hoping to hear soon that the regatta and sports committee are again moving in the matter.
Yours et cetera
Supporter
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

PRESENTATION AT CALEDONIAN RAILWAY STATION
A pleasant little ceremony took place on Monday night (24 June 1901) in the station master's room at Caledonian Railway Station, Ardrossan (shown below around 1900) when Mr Robert Winchester was made the recipient of a present by his friends on the Ardrossan Station. The present was a beautiful timepiece and the occasion was the recipient's marriage. Mr Simpson, station master, made the presentation in excellent terms and Mr Winchester made suitable and feeling acknowledgement.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

MINSTRELS ON ARDROSSAN SOUTH BEACH GREEN
Minstrels are operating on the Green.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL VISITS GLENGALL ASYLUM
Ardrossan Parish Council had a pleasant drive to Glengall Asylum on Wednesday (26 June 1901). The weather was beautiful.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

PAVEMENT ARTIST IN ARDROSSAN
A pavement artist the town on Wednesday (26 June 1901) but did not find Ardrossan appreciative of his work to justify the production of more than a quarter of a dozen pictures.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

ARDROSSAN BOYS WITH POCKET KNIVES
The number of Ardrossan boys who possess brand new pocket knives went up phenomenally this week. There are three sorts of the School Board Attendance 'gullie'.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

ARDROSSAN DRY DOCK COMPANY TO REFIT BROUGHSHANE
The Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company Limited have secured the work connected with refitting the steamship Broughshane. It will be remembered that this well-known coaster went ashore on Rathlin Island some time ago. The vessel was safely towed from the island to Belfast where temporary repairs were executed to fit her for the passage to Ardrossan.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - COMPETITION WANTED FOR SECOND CLASS JUVENILES
Sir
Seeing that football is still in full swing among juveniles and especially gold badge competitions as given by Stevenston Football Club and Kilwinning Rangers Football Club, I think the same advantage should be given to the second class juveniles in the surrounding districts who are not far behind in this kind of sport. Perhaps some local gentleman or local football club will see their way to encourage the youths in their highly interested sport. In my opinion, badges could be offered to this class of juveniles for competition and sports might be held at the finish. Winton Park could be selected for the venue which is well-suited for an occasion of this kind. Such clubs as the following could be invited to take part in the competition - Ardrossan Winton A, Ardrossan Celtic A, Saltcoats Rosebank, Saltcoats Caledonia, Saltcoats Seaside Rangers A, Stevenston Ardeer Athletic, Stevenston Seamore and Largs Athletic, thus making a fine display of juvenile combinations. Hoping that some interested parties will take the matter up,
I am yours et cetera
Highly Interested
Ardrossan
25 June 1901
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 June 1901

LATE DROWNING ACCIDENT - RECOVERY OF ONE OF THE BODIES
Yesterday afternoon (28 June 1901), the body of William John Nelson, one of the young men who were drowned at Ardrossan on Sunday afternoon, 9 June, was found in the dock about three o'clock. It was conveyed to the mortuary.
            Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Standard, 29 June 1901

BAIRD'S CYCLES PHOTO

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY EXHIBITION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES
On Friday last (28 June 1901), Ardrossan Academy was closed for the holidays. The Exhibition and Distribution of Prizes was on this occasion held in the Town Hall, Saltcoats and the change was in every respect most satisfactory. Within the past two years, the Academy has advanced in all departments and it now occupies a position in the estimaton of the Department and in the estimation of the people of the locality higher than ever.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY'S 'GOOD FRIDAY'
Friday last was 'Good Friday' for the Ardrossan Academy boys.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

ROYAL ASSENT FOR ARDROSSAN ACTS
Among the Acts which received that Royal Assent on Tuesday (2 July 1901) were the Ardrossan Harbour Order Confirmation and the Ardrossan Gas and Water Order Confirmation.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

MINSTRELS' STAGE STOLEN
Who stole the stage? The Minstrels on the South Beach (shown below in the 1950s) have been asking that question for some time. They left their stage on the shore about 10.30 one night and somebody had taken it before six in the morning.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

NEW GAS PIPES FOR ARDROSSAN
Messrs Blair and White, Glasgow, have secured the contract for trenching and jointing the new gas pipes which are to be laid along the North Crescent (shown below left in 2002) and Eglinton Street on to Burnfoot (shown below right in 2004) with the view of improving the illumination power. Messrs D Y Stewart and Company, Glasgow, supply the pipes.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

THE RECENT BOATING DISASTER - RECOVERY OF THREE BODIES
Since our last issue, the bodies of three of the four lads drowned off the Harbour on Sunday 9 June through the capsizing of a sailing boat have been recovered. On Friday afternoon last (28 June 1901), the body of the lad Nelson was found in the Harbour and on Saturday (29 June 1901), the funeral took place. On Monday afternoon, (1 July 1901) the Ardrossan Police received from Brodick intimation that a body, supposed to be that of Willie Grier, had been found there. Identification was established the same evening and on Tuesday (2 July 1901), the remains were conveyed to Ardrossan. The funeral took place on Tuesday evening and was attended by sympathising friends. Yesterday afternoon (4 July 1901), a third body was found that of the lad Robertson. The remains came ashore on the North Beach nearly opposite Crawford Lodge and were conveyed to the mortuary. The funeral took place today (5 July 1901). The events of the week have re-awakened in the community the deep feeling of sympathy for the bereaved.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

ARDROSSAN REGATTA
It is now absolutely certain that there will be a regatta at Ardrossan ere the fall. A meeting of the large and influential committee was called some time ago and two members attended. So encouraging was this enthusiastic turnout that it has been decided in anticipation of a relative enthusiasm on the part of the general public to put forth strenuous efforts to produce the programme of events. Seriously, the prospects of sports and the regatta are not bright. The committee which has a membership of at least a dozen is hopelessly inert. It has no manner of interest in the function which one would expect it to fulfil. It is purely honorary. Such a committee which does not commit or commits only sins of omission is a deplorable committee. It is a committee to be done without. On the last occasion, the organisation of the sports was left entirely in the hands of one or two until the actual labour was indubitably overpassed. Yet were the sports successful? Perhaps a pruned committee would result in a committee less inactive.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

CRICKET - ARDROSSAN SOUTH BEACH VERSUS KILWINNING MANSE ELEVEN
This match was played at Ardeer and resulted in an easy victory for the South Beach Eleven owing to the excellent batting of C Turpin whose score of 85 not out contains no less than six sixes. For the strangers, J Finnie was the only one who made any stand against the bowling of South Beach. Owing to a time limit having been fixed, the victory was only gained with a margin of two minutes to spare. The scores were South Beach 107 for three wickets, Kilwinning 33.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 July 1901

SEVEN STEAMERS FROM ARDROSSAN TO BELFAST
Seven steamers will carry passengers from Ardrossan to Belfast today, two in the morning and five at night.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

ARDROSSAN CARPENTERS RETURN HOME
The Ardrossan carpenters who were engaged in the attempt to salve the wrecked liner Corinthia in the West Indies have arrived home. The liner went to pieces.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

VULGAR MINSTRELS?
Bailie Smith considers the Minstrel performance very vulgar. Luckily for our black brethren, everybody has not such a high standard as the senior Bailie of Ardrossan.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

SHAMROCKS ARE INTERESTING
The Shamrocks were objects of great interest in the Firth, from Ardrossan particularly, on Wednesday (10 July 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

PRESENTATION TO ARDROSSAN AMBULANCE CORPS SECRETARY
On Wednesday evening (10 July 1901), Mr Peter McCallum, secretary to the Ardrossan Caledonian Ambulance Corps was presented with a handsome desk and gold pen in appreciation of the valuable services rendered during the last three years.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

PROTESTANT CONVECTICLES
Pastor Jacob Primmer holds his great annual open-air Protestant convecticles on Tuesday (16 July 1901) at South Beach, Ardrossan; on Wednesday (17 July 1901) at Howard Park, Kilmarnock; on Thursday (18 July 1901) at The Green, Irvine and on Friday (19 July 1901) at the Low Green , Ayr all at 7.30 pm. This is the twelfth year of these convecticles and the crowds gathering are as great as ever.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901
According to Wikipedia, 'A conventicle is a small, unofficial and unofficiated meeting of lay people to discuss religious issues in a non-threatening, intimate manner.'.

NEW MINISTER FOR EVANGELICAL UNION CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
The vacancy caused by the removal to Manchester by the Reverend John Masterton has now been filled, Mr James Dickson having accepted a call to the pastorate of the church. Mr Dickson, who is at present carrying on work in Belfast, has been for several years a soldier evangelist. It is expected that the induction of Mr Dickson to the Ardrossan church will take place in August.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

RECENT BOATING DISASTER - ALL BODIES FOUND
There is a certain sad satisfaction in the fact that the bodies of all the lads drowned off Ardrossan last month (on 9 June 1901) by the capsizing of a sailing boat have now been recovered. have now been recovered. On Tuesday (9 July 1901), the body of Robert Pettigrew, aged 21, was found floating in the bay off Troon. The remains were conveyed to Ardrossan and interred the same day. The difficulty of gauging currents off Ardrossan has been shown in connection with this accident . Of the four bodies, one was recovered inside the Harbour, one at Brodick, another on the North Shore and the last at Troon. Practical sympathy has been shown towards the bereaved. The Ardrossan Celtic Club with whom both Grier and Pettigrew were connected has brought off a series of benefit matches. The Ardrossan Winton Rovers have also exerted themselves in the same direction and the cyclists made a splendid effort last Friday (5 July 1901). Tomorrow (13 July 1901), the South Beach Cricket Club play a benefit match on Winton Park, Ardrossan (shown below in 2011).

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

ARDROSSAN CYCLE CLUB FANCY DRESS PARADE
The cyclists were out in a good cause last Friday evening (5 July 1901) when in favourable weather, they held a parade and collected a substantial sum on behalf of the relatives of the victims of the recent boating disaster. The meet was in the yard of the Eglinton Stables, whither towards seven o'clock on the evening specified, numerous fearful and wonderful and pretty figures wheeled their way. Fancy dress was the order and the cyclists responded heartily. The meet was not so large as some held here but the costumes were never better. The Heathen Chinee and the Choctaw Brave stood within two yards of each other. A Pawnee Warrior in his war-paint was under the eye of a diminutive Frontiersman - cowboy or scout or both. Fair Japs, gypsies and flower-girls smiled upon sundry Weary Willies and Tired Tims on rickety bone-shakers. The Constable kept an wary eye on all in the vicinity. Oom Paul was well represented, mounted on a piebald pony. The nonchalant blade of the tricycle wore an expression sublime in peacefulness and worth a fortune. The profession of Chimney Sweep had two delegates and there were bold brigands, funny clowns, coloured gentlemen and a profusion of rags and ferocious beards. The colours of local football clubs were sported. Above all was the Great Napoleon. The Minstrels, Ben Storey's Company, took part in the function and rendered valuable assistance. Leaving the starting point, the parade was headed by a band in a wagonette kindly given by Mr Allan to whom the club are most grateful. The band was composed of members of the band connected with Saltcoats Boys' Brigade and two pipers. Passing round Ardrossan, the procession wound along the South Crescent (shown below in the early 1910s) and went through Saltcoats and Stevenston. All along the route, spectators were numerous and sympathetic. At the close of the parade, it was announced that the very satisfactory figure of £46 12s 10d had been reached. The success of the parade in this respect is most gratifying and the Ardrossan Cycling Club thank all who took part in the parade and also the inhabitants of the Three Towns for the manner in which the responded to the efforts of the club on behalf of those bereaved by the recent accident. The promoters have good reason to be pleased by the outcome of their labours. During the parade, an accident occurred at a point off the Stevenston Road, one of the flower-girls being run over by a passing vehicle. She was kindly attended to by some of those in the vicinity at the time of the accident and through the kindness of some visitors was conveyed home in a wagonette. It is expected that she will be about again in about a month.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 July 1901

LATE DROWNING ACCIDENT AT ARDROSSAN
All the bodies of the lads drowned at Ardrossan in connection with the boating accident on 9 June have now been recovered. The last of them, Robert Pettigrew, was found in Troon Harbour on Tuesday afternoon (9 July 1901) by a fisherman. The body was conveyed the same day to Ardrossan where it was interred.
           
Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Standard, 13 July 1901

PASTOR PRIMMER SPEAKS AT ARDROSSAN SOUTH BEACH
On the South Beach on Tuesday evening (16 July 1901), Pastor Primmer delivered his annual address on ecclesiastical shortcomings and errors to a fairly large gathering. The weather was a little unfavourable. Pastor Primmer was accompanied by the Reverend Mr MacDougall. After an address condemning Roman Catholicism and any tendency to depart from the religious line which he holds right, Pastor Primmer made several resolutions. The resolutions included one concerning the coronation oath and its declaration against Roman Catholicism. A vote of thanks to the police was passed on the call of Pastor Primmer. A collection was taken and a great deal of literature on the subjects touched upon by the speaker was sold.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

PARK UNITED FREE CHURCH ANNIVERSARY SERVICES

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

TYNWALD SAILS FROM ARDROSSAN
On Saturday first (20 July 1901), the Tynwald will make a special sailing from Ardrossan.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

SCREAMING IN PRINCES STREET
In Princes Street last night (18 July 1901), a lady 'literally let down her back hair and screamed'.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

ALL NIGHT DANCING ON SOUTH BEACH GREEN
Dancing on the South Beach Green was continued through Wednesday evening (17 July 1901) till three o'clock on Thursday morning (18 July 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

ARDROSSAN A BURGH FOR FIFTY-SIX YEARS
Ardrossan Burgh has entered its fifty-sixth year, Royal Assent to the first Burgh Bill having been given on 16 July 1846.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

When Ardrossan was elevated to a Burgh of the Barony, it adopted a coat of arms that showed Ardrossan Castle with crosses representing its founders, the Barclays. The motto was Takand Care which means Taking Care. The coat of arms and motto remained symbols of Ardrossan until they were replaced at the Burgh Centenary in 1946. The photograph above, taken in 2010, is of the coat of arms above the stage in the Civic Centre, previously Castlecraigs.

PAVILION AND CUSHIONED SEATS WANTED AT WINTON PARK
The only thing now wanted at Winton Park, Ardrossan are a pavilion for the footballers and a few cushioned seats for some of the spectators of cricket matches.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

PRESENTATION TO LADY EDITH MONTGOMERIE
The tenantry of the Barony of Ardrossan this week presented Lady Edith Montgomery with a handsome clock and ornaments on the occasion of her marriage. The gift is a unique one having been purchased by Mr Weir of Buchanan Street, Glasgow at the Paris Exhibition where it gained the grand prize. We understand this recognition of the auspicious event by the tenantry has given much pleasure and satisfaction.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

POLICE INSPECTION
Yesterday morning (18 July 1901), the men of the Largs, Saltcoats and Ardrossan sections of the Ayrshire Constabulary were inspected at West Kilbride by Captain Monro, His Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary for Scotland. The sections include Saltcoats, Stevenston, Ardeer, Ardrossan, West Kilbride, Fairlie and Skelmorlie. Colonel R Pollock Morris, Convenor of the County and Captain McHardy, Chief Constable, accompanied the inspecting officer. The inspection was carried through with despatch.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

ARDROSSAN BURGH COURT
At Ardrossan Burgh Court on Monday (15 July 1901), Provost Young on the bench, several cases were disposed off. Three charges of disorderly, incapable and breach of the peace were admitted and suitable penalties imposed. A little fellow of nine or ten was charged with theft of money and tobacco at a shop in Glasgow Street (shown below in the eraly 1900s). He pled not guilty. Evidence was led and the charge was found proved. The evidence was interesting as shown by where the stolen money went. It appeared that the accused and other boys had gone from one ice-cream shop to another indulging in ice-cream, caramels, 'sliders', cigarettes et cetera with the funds held. The lack of guidance in the upbringing of the boy was referred to. He was dismissed with an admonition.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 July 1901

SOUTH BEACH TENNIS CLUB THRIVES
South Beach Tennis Club has entered on a new lease of life. There is now a membership of over fifty.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901

YOUTH FALLS FROM ISLE OF MAN STEAMER
On Monday afternoon (22 July 1901), a youth whose anxiety to get off the Mastiff (shown below in 1892) at Montgomerie Pier was greater than his discretion, made an effort which resulted in his falling between the vessel and the wharf. He was obviously damped when they got him ashore.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901

ISLE OF MAN EXCURSIONISTS
Yesterday morning (25 July 1901), the King Orry brought from the Isle of Man to Ardrossan a large number of excursionists who left per special train for the Glasgow Exhibition. The excursionists returned at night, the steamer leaving Ardrossan at midnight. Today (26 July 1901), a similar excursion is being conducted
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901

DECEASED HOLIDAYMAKER RETURNED TO ARDROSSAN
A Glasgow Fair holidaymaker, who left by the Isle of man steamer, died during his brief holiday at Douglas. The circumstance being represented to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, they without charge brought the body back to Ardrossan, a kindness much appreciated by the deceased's relatives.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901

CARD PLAYING IN ARDROSSAN
In no place, one imagines, so much as in Ardrossan do working men indulge in outdoor card playing. In every secluded nook in the vicinity, one comes towards the going down of the sun upon a group of squatted gamblers. Furtively, they deal their well-thumbed cards and look innocently occupied in their attention should the passer-by seem over-heedful of them. One is not personally disposed to cavil at the nature of the pastime but it occurs to one that al fresco games of cards are not approved of by the law. So long as players play only in the unfrequented corners of the neighbourhood, no objection can reasonably be taken but of late they have been bolder and now they may be seen upon the Crescent Green and on the slopes of the Cannon Hill. In these circumstances, it is not only reasonable but right to raise objection. Mayhap, Sergeant Allan will be able to effect a remedy some way or other.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901

MARRIAGE OF LADY EDITH MONTGOMERIE
Flags were flying from the Town Hall, the Municipal Chambers, the Cannon Hill (shown below in the early 1910s) and from ships in the Harbour on Monday (22 July 1901) in honour of Lady Edith Montgomerie who on that day was married to Colonel Trotter. In another column, will be found a report of the wedding and list of presents.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901

MARRIAGE OF CAPTAIN TROTTER AND LADY EDITH MONTGOMERIE
On Monday afternoon last (22 July 1901), in the midst of splendid weather and in the presence of a very large and influential assembly, at the fashionable Saint Paul's, Knightsbridge, London, the marriage took place of Captain Algernon Richard Trotter, Distinguished Service Order who was side-de-camp to General Redvere Buller when commanding the forces in Natal and now at Aldershot and eldest son of Major-General Sir Henry Trotter and the Honourable Lady Trotter of Mortonhall, Midlothian and nephew of Lord Gifford of the Old House, Chichester and Lady Edith Mary Montgomerie, daughter of the Earl and Countess of Eglinton, Castle, Irvine and The Pavilion, Ardrossan (shown below inthe early 1920s) and granddaughter of the late Mr Cunninghame of Craigends, Renfrew. The service was very choral and the decoration of coco and kentia palms intermixed with white flowers were of 'capp's' special arrangements and were very much admired. The nuptial ceremony was very impressive, conducted by the Reverend Scott Holland assisted by the Reverend Montagu Villiers, Vicar of Saint Paul's Church and the Reverend Baden-Powell, cousin of the hero of Mafeking.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report that includes a list of gifts and donors.

MISSING WATCH RECOVERED
On Saturday 14 June, a man under the influence of drink in Ardrossan, lost or was relieved of a silver watch lever watch. Information on the loss or theft was given to the police who immediately circulated a description of the watch in the usual way. Nothing was heard of the missing watch until Friday last (19 July 1901) when a man residing in Stirling Road, Glasgow entered a pawn office in Bath Street, Glasgow and attempted to pawn a watch which the pawnbroker recognised as one of which he had received a description of as having been stolen. The man was detained and the identity of the watch was established. On 20 June, before Bailie Goodwin at Ardrossan, the man was charged with the theft. He could give no satisfactory account of how he became possessed of the watch and paid the fine of 10s 6s which was imposed with the alternative of fourteen days. The pawnbroker's smartness was commendable and the owner of the watch was highly delighted at the recovery of his property.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 July 1901

AYRSHIRE MASONIC BOWLING TROPHY
Four rinks met on the Ardrossan Green yesterday (1 August 1901) in competition for the Ayrshire Masonic Bowling Trophy.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 August 1901

COULD MERCHANTS HOLD SPORTS?
'Long Jump' writes asking if it would not be possible for the Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Merchant's Association to hold sports.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 August 1901

SOUTH BEACH CRICKET CLUB
The South Beach Cricket Club had a win on Saturday (27 July 1901), defeating a Paisley team on Winton Park. The weather was of the best. The Club meet a visitors' eleven at West Kilbride tomorrow (3 August 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 August 1901

ARDROSSAN POST OFFICE MAN MOVES TO PORTREE
Mr James Mayes who has been connected with Ardrossan Post Office for upwards of twenty-eight years leaves shortly for Portree where he has taken up the duties of postmaster.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 August 1901

JUBILEE OF ARDROSSAN BOWLING GREEN
The bowlers brought off a double event on Friday evening last (26 July 1901) when they celebrated the jubilee of the green and played off the greenkeeper's benefit match. A very large number of members took part in the evening's proceedings. The game was between President and Vice-President. Some rain fell in the course the match but altogether the conditions were favourable and the game very pleasant. The President gained a popular victory, the scores being President 105, Vice-President 71 - majority for President 34 shots. After the game, an adjournment was made to the clubhouse where in honour and in celebration of the jubilee of the green, Mr William Martin, President, entertained the members to a cake and wine banquet.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 August 1901

MARRIAGE OF MISS EDITH MOFFAT
In Holy Trinity Church, Ayr on Tuesday (30 July 1901), daughter of the late John Moffat, Ardrossan and Mrs Hay of Castlehill, Ayr was married to Captain Scrymgeour-Wedderburn of Wedderburn, Kirkhill, Fife. The Reverend George Grub, rector and Reverend Alexander Copland, senior curate officiated at the ceremony. The bride was given away by her brother John Moffat. Mr Norman Lamont, younger of Ardlamont was best man.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 August 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report. Henry Scrymgeour-Wedderburn was the Tenth Earl of Dundee. His and Edith Moffat's son, Henry James Scrymgeour-Wedderburn (1902-1983), was the eleventh Earl of Dundee. Among several military and political posts, he was Under-Secretary of State for Scotland from 1936 to 1939 and 1941 to 1942.

ACCIDENT AT ARDROSAN HARBOUR
An accident, which was very nearly a terrible disaster, occurred at the harbour on Friday evening last (2 August 1901). Eight men were unloading the steamship Eleanor and one of the large iron buckets filled with limestone and weighing upwards of half a ton was being drawn up by a crane. The tackle gave way while the bucket was in the air directly over the hatches. Fortunately, the bucket falling back into the after-hold struck no-one but the contents of it were scattered with terrible force. One of the labourers, Robert Withers, received a nasty fracture of the left leg. He was sent to the Western Infirmary, Glasgow. Another of the men sustained injury to the head.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 August 1901

HERALD CARTOON IN REVIEW OF REVIEWS
Two of the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald's cartoons are reproduced in the August issue of the Review of Reviews.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 August 1901

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT TAKES UP RESIDENCE IN THE PAVILION
The Right Honourable Thomas Cochrane, member of parliament and Lady Gertrude Cochrane have taken up residence at The Pavilion, Ardrossan.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 August 1901

ARDROSSAN FLOWER SHOW

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 August 1901

ARDROSSAN FLOWER SHOW AND HIGHER SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 August 1901

ARDROSSAN CYCLE CLUB BAIRD CUP DATE
The committee of Ardrossan Cycle Club announce that the race for the Baird Cup will be run on 7 September.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 August 1901

FURIOUS DRIVING ON SOUTH BEACH
There was a disgraceful case of furious driving out South Beach way last night (22 August 1901) . Two of the vehicles which run between Ardrossan and Saltcoats raced towards the latter place as hard as the horse could travel, the drivers urging them on in a most brutal and reckless manner.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 August 1901

SALTCOATS AND ARDROSSAN FEATURED IN PEOPLE'S FRIEND
Ardrossan and Saltcoats have been selected at the locale of a story at present appearing in the People's Friend. It is quite up-to-date as the following paragraph bears witness to. So they went down to the esplanade at Saltcoats and saw the children happily playing on the beach, their elders looking contentedly on and young lovers, happiest of all, sitting in quiet places. On turning the corner at the Established Church however, they suddenly found themselves in an atmosphere altogether different for if Saltcoats and Ardrossan are twin sisters, the former is the coquettish beauty and the latter, plain-looking, hard-working household slave. Here they come upon the houses of the poor. They saw crowds of grimy men coming from the docks to their midday meal and saw rows of long, unlovely streets with public houses here and there which, alas, had only two many patrons. Violet, an heiress, has been invited to open a sale of work at Ardrossan and consents as "There are one or two things I want to say about the people hereabouts and this will be a chance for saying them.". We await the 'one or two things' with feverish anxiety.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 August 1901

INSPECTION OF GAS AND WATER WORKS
The provost, magistrates, councillors and burgh officials made their annual inspection yesterday (22 August 1901) of the town's gas and water works. It is satisfactory to know that all were found to be in an excellent condition. The party also surveyed the ground to be covered by the proposed new water scheme.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 August 1901

DEATH OF MISS MARGARET BOYD - A REMARKABLE RECORD
On Friday last (23 August 1901), there passed away Miss Margaret Boyd, the oldest native of Ardrossan now resident in the place. Born on 11 October 1811, Miss Boyd would in a few weeks have completed her ninetieth year. She was one of a family remarkable for its longevity and of which our esteemed townsman, Mr John Boyd, is a member. Mrs Barbour, Mary Boyd, died at the age of eighty-three; Mrs Barrie, mother of Councillor Barrie, attained the age of eighty-seven; Robert Boyd was seventy-seven years of age at this death; William Boyd, seventy-two; Mrs Cook, who died in Newfoundland, was seventy-seven and Miss Margaret Boyd was ninety. The combined ages of these six members of the family total four hundred and eighty-six years, an average of eighty-one years. Miss Margaret Boyd whose death is now recorded was born in Ardrossan and resided in the town all her life. She must have witnessed many remarkable changes in the district. Very well-known among Ardrossan natives, she was highly respected and will be sincerely mourned.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

THEODORE NAPIER IN ARDROSSAN
Mr Theodore Napier of the kilt and flowing locks spent last weekend in Ardrossan.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

ARDROSSAN TELEPHONE SYSTEM EXTENDED
Ardrossan was one of the places for which additional circuits were ordered last year in connection with the telephone extension.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

BUSY SOUTH BEACH GREEN
The other night, the minstrels, a ventriloquist, a vendor of cheap watches and the bellman were simultaneously employed in an effort to attract the attention of people on the South Beach Green.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

AUTOMOBILE CLUB TRIAL COMES TO ARDROSSAN
That portion of Ayrshire lying between Skelmorlie and Kilmarnock via Ardrossan will have an opportunity of witnessing the second of five runs in connection with the five hundred miles trial of motor vehicles organised by the Automobile Club of Great Britain and Ireland.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

ARDROSSAN EVANGELICAL UNION CHOIR VISITS COODHAM
The choir of Ardrossan Evangelical Union Congregational Church enjoyed their trip on Saturday last (23 August 1901) to Coodham. The weather was lovely and the trippers thoroughly appreciated the many courtesies extended to them during their brief stay at Sir William Houldsworth's beautiful place.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

ARDROSSAN RECHABITES HAVE NEW SECRETARY
At a meeting of the Ardrossan Castlehill Tent of Rechabites held on Wednesday evening (28 August 1901), Brother Robert Baillie was appointed tent secretary in room of Brother Hugh Donnan. The latter gentleman had gone to fill an important situation under the Uddingston Cooperative Society.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

ARDROSSAN FLOWER SHOW
Ardrossan Flower Show is on today (30 August 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

CALDERS'S CINEMATOGRAPH AND CONCERT

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 August 1901

ARDROSSAN FLOWER SHOW
On Friday last (30 August 1901), the annual show of flowers, fruit and vegetables held under the auspices of the Ardrossan Horticultural Society took place in the Drill Hall, Ardrossan. The weather during the week preceding the show day was not of a very favourable nature and in consequence the display seemed somewhat thinner than usual but the quality in most of the classes was very good indeed.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 September 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

DOCTOR WILSON LEAVES ARDROSSAN
Doctor Wilson, Ardrossan is, we understand, bound for over the border.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 September 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY
There's a stir in Literary Society circles just now. The Ardrossan body is going to make a gallant effort to widen its circle 'out of sight' and we hope it will be successful.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 September 1901

ARDROSSAN SHOP BROKEN INTO
A shop in Ardrossan was broken into one morning this week. Suspicion attached to some boys and as they immediately became conspicuous by their absence, the police initiated a search. The boys 'took to the open country' but were at length run to earth. Two of them will appear in the Burgh Court today (6 September 1901) to answer the charge.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 September 1901

NORTH CRESCENT HALF-VILLA SOLD
We understand that the half-villa in North Crescent, Ardrossan, belonging to Mr T B Cockburn and which was exposed for public sale on Tuesday (3 September 1901) has been sold privately to Mr Samuel Goodwin, Ardrossan.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 September 1901

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
The members of the above Club have made arrangements for what promises to be a very interesting session beginning tonight (6 September 1901) with a Print Night. The Print Night, to quote from the syllabus just issued by the Club, has been arranged to afford an opportunity to members for showing to members examples of their work and thus mutually interesting each other in new scenes and subjects. In the course of the session which concludes on 4 April, an interesting and most instructive series of meetings will be held and various gentlemen will address the members on matters dear to the heart of the amateur photographer. Ordinary members of the Club pay 7s 6d annually with 2s 6d entry money and it must be said that the use of the dark-room and enjoyment of the many privileges conferred by membership are cheaply bought. Honorary members' subscription is 5s yearly.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 September 1901

MRS HART'S COOKERY CLASS

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
The monthly meeting of Ardrossan Town Council was held on Monday evening (9 September 1901) in the Council Chambers, Kilmahew. Provost Young presided and the other members present were Bailie Smith, Councillors Barrie, Harvey, Bennett, Guthrie, Hogarth and Crawford. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The salary of Mr C J Shaw, Burgh Surveyor, was increased from £120 to £140 per annum, the increase to be allocated in due proportions over the various offices held by Mr Shaw.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL HORTICULTURISTS
Ardrossan Parish Council is rich in men devoted to horticulture.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

ANOTHER ARDROSSAN LAUNCH
Mr Thomson, boat builder, Ardrossan, last week launched another of the his smart fishing craft which have earned him an excellent reputation as a builder.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

RESPECT FOR SISTER McCLURE
Out of respect for the memory of the late Sister H McClure, Ardrossan Lifeboat Lodge of Good Templars have had their dispensation and officers' regalias draped with black.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

ARDROSSAN FIRN LAUNCHES STEAMER
A steel screw steamer named Baron Balfour for Hugh Hogarth, Glasgow and Ardrossan, of a dead-weight carrying capacity of 660 tons was successfully launched from the yard of A Rodger and Company, Port Glasgow, yesterday (12 September 1901).
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

MR FREW TAKES EXPERIENCE TO TROON HARBOUR
Mr William Frew, traffic manager at Troon Harbour, will take to his new duties a deal of experience acquired in Ardrossan when the company gets the harbour proper under weigh. Big business may be looked for.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY TEACHERS' SUCCESS
We are pleased to note that Mr George G Turnbull, assistant teacher, and Mr Alexander B Ririe, manual instructor, Ardrossan Academy have gained the diploma Des Deutchen Vereins Fur Knabentaldarbeit at Leipzig in cardboard modelling and wood carving. Mr Ririe receives mention in iron-work in addition.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY TEACHER'S SUCCESS
Mr George G Turnbull, Ardrossan Academy has passed the final examination of the City and Guilds of London as Manual Instruction in Woodwork.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT ATTENDS SPORTS
The honourable Thomas Cochrane, member of parliament and Lady Gertrude Cochrane witnessed some lively tussles between Stevenston teams at Saltcoats in the five-a-side competition at Saltcoats Gardeners' Sports on Saturday (7 September 1901). Had he witnessed a certain juvenile game in Ardrossan a fortnight ago the honourable member would have been reminded of scenes at the front.
           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 September 1901

WINTON STREET RENUMBERED
Winton Street, Ardrossan (shown below in 2002) has been renumbered.

           
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 September 1901

DAVID McDOWALL WINS BAIRD CUP
For the second year in succession, the cup presented to Ardrossan Cycling Club by Mr George O Baird has been worn by Mr David McDowall.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 September 1901

MISS BAWMANN ADDRESSES YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
In the Young Men's Christian Association Hall, Ardrossan on Tuesday evening (17 September 1901), Miss Bawmann who for thirty years had engaged in missionary work in India spoke most interestingly of her work in India.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 September 1901

ARDROSSAN GARRISON COMPANY
Modern breech-loading guns are expected at the coast batteries soon. The Ardrossan Garrison Company had a big-gun firing exercise on Saturday (14 September 1901). The Company is in a prosperous condition.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 September 1901

MISPELLING IN ARDROSSAN
Posters and handbills displayed locally this week gave Ardrossan's sense of its own importance a real staggerer. Some English printer had apparently never hear of the place and large, medium and small bills, our burgh was called Ardrossau instead of Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 September 1901

ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT EXERCISE
The periodical exercise of the lifeboat James Stevens on the Ardrossan Station was carried out yesterday (26 September 1901). The boat was successfully launched and proceeded on the usual run. The weather being fine, the exercise was valueless as a test of gear but otherwise was very satisfactory. In the opinion of her crew, there is no better lifeboat in the United Kingdom than the one which Coxswain Macfarlane commands and the boat is fit for any service. The claims of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution are apt to be less prominent during the summer season than during the months of storm and shipwreck but it is hoped that locally the public support on which this splendid institution depends will be unstinted. Mr Thomas Guthrie, solicitor, ably fills the post of honorary secretary to the local committee.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

KILDONAN LIFEBOAT COMES TO ARDROSSAN
On Tuesday evening (24 September 1901), six members of the crew of the lifeboat on the Kildonan Station called the boat over to Ardrossan. It has been stated that the boat is to be transferred to some other station. Lying in the Old Dock, Ardrossan, the boat appears to be of the same type as the one which preceded the James Stevens on the Ardrossan Station. It is understood to be questionable if the boat will be replaced at Kildonan, the experience of late years having been that a suitable crew has been difficult to obtain.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

MARRIAGE OF MISS JESSIE GALLOWAY, ARDROSSAN
By a pleasing an exceedingly interesting ceremony performed at Kilmeny, Ardrossan (shown below as the Hotel Kilmeny in the 1970s) on Wednesday afternoon (25 September 1901), there were united in wedlock two widely-known and highly esteemed Christian workers - Miss Jessie Galloway, daughter of Mr John Galloway of Kilmeny and the Reverend John Stuart Holden (Cantab). The officiating clergymen were the Reverend W D M Sutherland, Landsborough Church, Saltcoats and the Reverend J Elder Cumming DD.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

IRVINE AT ARDROSSAN
The dredger Irvine is in dry dock at Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN CALEDONIAN RAILWAY AMBULANCE CLASS
On Sunday 6 October, the members of Ardrossan Caledonian Railway Ambulance Class meet and begin another session.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

GAS MAIN NEARLY FINISHED
The new gas main is not far off the finishing mark at Burnfoot. The work has progressed very steadily.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN CHEMISTS CLOSE AT 8 PM
Ardrossan chemists have decided to close at 8 pm during the winter even though it is the social meeting season.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

HMS BENBOW OFF ARDROSSAN
HMS Benbow was in the Firth yesterday afternoon (26 September 1901) and when opposite Ardrossan was an object of much interest.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

BROUGHSHANE GETTING SHIP-SHAPE
In the hands of Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company Limited, the much-battered Broughshane is beginning to look ship-shape again.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ROBERT FERRIER APPOINTED TO CHAIR OF ENGINEERING
Professor Robert Ferrier has been appointed to the chair of engineering at University College, Bristol. Ardrossan is thus honoured.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN BOWLING GREEN CLOSING GAME
The closing game of the season takes place tomorrow, Saturday afternoon (28 September 1901) at 3.30 on Ardrossan Bowling Green. It is hoped there will be a large turnout of the members on this occasion.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN BOWLING GREEN SUPPER AND PRIZEGIVING
Tuesday 8 October is the date fixed for the supper and presentation of prizes in connection with the Ardrossan Bowling Club. The cuisine arrangements are in the hands of Mr Fleming of the Eglinton Arms Hotel.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY
Ardrossan Literary Society meets on Tuesday evening (1 October 1901). The proceedings will be brief owing to the yacht race but members and prospective members are requested to turn up all the same.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY AND DEBATING SOCIETY

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN AMBULANCE CLASS

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

ARDROSSAN LIBERAL ASSOCIATION
From advertisement, it will be noticed that the annual meeting of Ardrossan Liberal Association will be held tonight, Friday (27 September 1901) at eight o'clock in the Club Room. We hope to see a large attendance of members.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 September 1901

HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICES
In Saint John's, Ardrossan on Sunday evening (29 September 1901), harvest thanksgiving services were held.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

ARDROSSAN BOWLERS' SOCIAL EVENING
The Ardrossan bowlers will fight their battles o'er again on Tuesday evening (8 October 1901) at a social function.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY
Ardrossan Literary Society met on Tuesday evening (1 October 1901). A big attendance is wanted at the next meeting on Tuesday first (8 October 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

FURNITURE SALE AT BURNFOOT VILLA
The prices realised at a sale of furniture in Burnfoot Villa, Ardrossan (shown to the left of centre below left in 2006) on Tuesday last (1 October 1901) have not been equalled since the Seafield (shown below as Quarriers in 2008) sale many years ago.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

C MURCHIE AND COMPANY APPOINTED TO THE ADMIRALTY
We are pleased to note that Messrs C Murchie and Company, Ardrossan, have been appointed contractors to the Admiralty for the supply of bread and provisions to His Majesty's ships visiting Lamlash.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

RAILWAY PETITION
In response to a petition presented to the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company praying that the connection between Glasgow and Ardrossan Princes Street Station (shown below as Ardrossan Town Station in 2005) should be resumed per the 4-7 train, we are advised that it has now been arranged to attach a portion for Ardrossan to be detached at South Beach where the engine will be in readiness to work it in.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

ARDROSSAN PENNY SAVINGS BANK - MANAGERS WANTED
Mr E J Hill, agent, appeals for additional managers to assist at the Ardrossan Penny Savings Bank on Saturdays from 6 to 7 pm. The bank has never been so popular as it is at present. There are over 720 accounts and unless assistance is forthcoming, the question of closing the institution will have to be considered. We trust a hearty response will be given to Mr Hill's appeal. At one time there were twenty-four managers - now there are only six. One hour in several weeks is not much to give to carry on a useful agency and we will be glad to be in a position to state in an early issue that local patriotism has manifested itself in a large enlistment of willing workers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

ARDROSSAN LIBERAL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The annual general meeting of the members of the Ardrossan Liberal was held in the Liberal Club Rooms on Friday evening last (28 October 1901). In the unavoidable absence of the president, Mr C J Shearer, the chair was occupied by Mr William Gilroy who briefly introduced the proceedings and expressed the regret of the members at the indisposition which prevented Mr Shearer from attending.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

BARQUE FROM ARDROSSAN ON FIRE
A Cape Town telegram of Monday's date (30 September 1901), states that the British barque Glenogle, bound from Ardrossan to Cape Town has been abandoned on fire. The vessel was fifty-four days out from Ardrossan and 1550 miles from Cape Town when fire broke out in the cargo. The cause of the outbreak was spontaneous combustion.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

JOINER FINED FOR ASSAULTING A WOMAN
At Monday's (30 September 1901) Burgh Court, a joiner of Harbour Place, Ardrossan appeared on a charge of having assaulted a woman by striking her on the head with a pair of tongs, causing a lacerated wound. The accused was fined thirty shillings with the alternative of twenty-one days imprisonment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

MR SALMOND TO VISIT ARDROSSAN
We direct attention to the announcement of a lecture by Mr D S Salmond on Handel And His Music With Illustrations to be given in Saint John's Church, Ardrossan on Wednesday evening (9 October 1901). Mr Salmond combines in himself the gifts of lecturing and singing well and a pleasant and profitable evening may be assured to all who reserve Wednesday evening for that entertainment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB SEASON CLOSES
On Saturday last (28 September 1901), the Ardrossan Bowling Club brought the season to a close with the usual game - president versus vice-president. The weather, although dull, was favourable ans a pleasant game was the outcome. The attendance of members on this occasion was small, only eight rinks taking part.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 October 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN CURLERS READY
The Ardrossan Curlers are now ready for the first freeze.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

THE FENIAN AT ASSEMBLY ROOMS
The Fenian made a very good appearance in the Assembly Hall last night
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901
The Fenian was a play.

ARDROSSAN MAN APPOINTED INSPECTOR OF MINES
Mr Frank Smith, B Sc of Ardrossan who some time ago held an appointment in Lugar has been appointed government inspector of mines in North West Territories, Canada. We offer congratulations.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

COLUMBIA WINS
Columbia wins. This was the message that was displayed in Ardrossan on Friday night (4 October 1901) and it occasioned not a little surprise for although it could not be admitted that the chance of the challenger has decreased in the face of two successive victories of the Columbia, there was a strong hope that the British boat would prove her superiority. However, the cup is destined to remain in America meantime and there is nothing for it but to take our defeat in a graceful way.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

ARDROSSAN POSTMAN RETIRES AFTER THIRTY-SIX YEARS
This week, there has been a great change in Ardrossan Post Office for on Saturday last (5 October 1901), Mr William Brown who for thirty-six years was postman in Ardrossan went on the retired list having passed the age limit of sixty years. In September 1865, Mr Brown entered upon his duties of postman. At that time, Ardrossan Post Office was not the commodious institution it is now and at that time Mr Brown was the sole postman and continued so for more than six years afterwards. Dr Stevens was postmaster and there was only one lady clerk. When Mr Brown tackled the work of delivering all the Ardrossan letters himself, the town was, of course, considerably smaller than it is now. In Glasgow Street, the houses on the shore side did not extend beyond the United Presbyterian, now Park United Presbyterian Church, of which the Reverend Mr Murray was minister. On the landward side of the street, the line of house was not far beyond the church. Clyde View at that time was the most northerly house in Montgomerie Street and in what is now Eglinton Street, there stood alone the Free Church manse, then occupied by the Reverend Mr Stewart, Seafield and the Burnfoot Villas and Crescent Park stood almost alone in the North Crescent. In the South Crescent, the Established Church manse was the house nearest Saltcoats. Great changes have taken place both in the dimensions of the place and in the personnel of its business population since Mr Brown took up his duties in 1865. Throughout all the changes, he has been highly esteemed by all the community and that now he has laid down his work after thirty-six years faithful service. Than Mr Brown, Ardrossan has had no more worthy and esteemed public official and the best wishes of the whole community will, we are sure, go with him into his well-earned, though compulsory, retirement.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

INVALID COOKERY
All desirous of hearing an expert on the difficult subject of invalid cookery should note that Mrs Hart will give a lecture on that subject in Ardrossan Town Hall on Tuesday first (15 October 1901). Mrs Hart's qualifications and ability will ensure to all who take advantage of the opportunity an instructive hour or so.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

DR WILSON LEAVES ARDROSSAN
On Saturday last (5 October 1901), Dr Wilson left Ardrossan to take up a large practice in Gateshead-upon-Tyne. A few days before leaving, he was presented with handsome fish and fruit services as slight tokens of the esteem of a large number of friends. Since coming to Ardrossan, Dr Wilson has won the admiration and affection of a wide circle and he goes to his new practice with our best wishes and fullest confidence.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

EVENING CLASSES IN ARDROSSAN ACADEMY
The evening classes under the Ardrossan of School Board are now for the most part in full swing. In this issue, however, will be found an announcement which will be of interest to the fair sex generally. Evening classes for instruction in practical cookery, laundry work and millinery are being formed in Ardrossan Academy. The cookery classes are on Monday evenings from 7 to 9, laundry on Wednesdays at the same time and millinery on Tuesdays and Thursdays, also at the same time.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

FINED FOR FAILING TO EDUCATE
At a Justice of the Peace Court held in Ardrossan on Tuesday (8 October 1901) , Provost Guthrie, presiding several cases at the instance of Ardrossan Parish School Board were disposed of. A man of Montgomerie Lane, Ardrossan, for failing to provide elementary education for his child was fined 10/- with 10/- expenses. A man from Saltcoats appeared in respect of his two sons. It transpired that this was the third occasion on which he had been prosecuted. One of the boys who is twelve years of age is only in the first standard while the other, aged ten, has not got beyond the infant department. The sentence was 10/- with 10/- expenses. A warrant was granted for the apprehension of another Saltcoats man who failed to appear.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 October 1901

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
The Town Council of Ardrossan met in Kilmahew on Monday night (14 October 1901). Provost Young presided and Bailie Smith, Councillors Barrie, Bennett, Harvey, Guthrie, Hogarth and Crawford were present. Minutes of the preceding meeting were read and approved and in reference to a Works Committee minute touching the matter of the Fire Brigade, Mr Harvey, the convenor, stated that, as the minute indicated, the committee had made an enquiry into the question of the Brigade's efficiency and had come to the conclusion that, so far as the Brigade itself was concerned, it was as efficient as it could be and that considering the requirements of a town such as Ardrossan, it was satisfactory.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 October 1901

ELECTIONS
By a strange coincidence, four councillors fall to be elected in the three burghs of Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Kilwinning. Interim appointments account for this.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 October 1901

REQUEST TO STAND FOR ELECTION
We understand Mr Lewis Porter, Elsing House, Ardrossan has received a requisition requesting him to stand for election as a town councillor and that he has given his consent.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 October 1901
Elsing House was in South Crescent, now South Crescent Road.

ARDROSSAN BURGH BALANCE SHEET
Ardrossan ratepayers who pose as financial experts can obtain a copy of the Burgh's balance sheet on payment of one penny. As the cost of production would run to something over a shilling, the bargain is a good one. Besides, it may furnish points for hecklers at the ratepayers' meeting.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 October 1901

ARDROSSAN SHAKESPEARE READING CLUB
The Ardrossan Shakespeare Reading Club inaugurated its fifth session on Monday evening of last week (7 October 1901) with a revival of Twelfth Night. The Club membership now numbers forty-two. While Shakespeare has naturally the foremost place in the syllabus for the ensuing session, Ben Johnson, Beaumont and Fletcher and Otway are also represented. The tragedy of Becket as arranged for dramatic representative by the late Poet Laureate and Sir Henry Irving will also be taken up by the Club during the winter. The Club is retaining in full measure the interest and enthusiasm of its members.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 October 1901

PRESENTATION TO ARDROSSAN POSTAL WORKER
Mr Mayes, who for a long period occupied an important position on the staff of Ardrossan Post Office, was recently transferred to the Post Office at Portree and has settled down to the duties of his new position. The occasion of his removal to Portree has been taken advantage of by the Ardrossan staff to express the esteem in which Mr Mayes was held there. A beautiful gold albert with pennant bearing a suitable inscription and a purse for Mrs Mayes were the tokens of regard and the expression of good wishes.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 October 1901

ARDROSSAN MUNICIPAL ELECTION RATEPAYERS' MEETING

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

HARVEST THANKSGIVING IN SAINT ANDREW'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
In Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church, Ardrossan on Sunday last (20 October 1901), Harvest Thanksgiving services were held. There were large attendances. The interior of the church bore appropriate indications of the nature of the service which was itself very appropriate.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

HELP WANTED FOR ARDROSSAN BOYS' BRIGADE
Last week, the Saltcoats Company of the Boys' Brigade began another season's work. The Ardrossan Company had a most successful season last year under Captain Murchie. The pressure of other and more important work, however, renders it impossible for Captain Murchie to again take up the affairs of the Brigade. Should any local gentleman interested in the splendid work of the Boys' Brigade care to identify himself with the Ardrossan Company, he is assured of the use of the commodious Drill Hall and, we are certain, of every possible assistance from those who have had experience of the work.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

TESTIMONIAL TO WILLIAM BROWN, POSTMAN
As already intimated in our columns, William Brown, after thirty-six years service as postman in Ardrossan has had to retire having reached the age limit. A movement has been inaugurated to present him with a testimonial in recognition of his long and faithful services and already a number of subscriptions have been sent in. It will be gratifying and fitting if the testimonial is representative of the town's appreciation and that it may be so we have pleasure in making it known that subscriptions are being received by Mr Thomas Guthrie, writer, or Mr Guthrie, Herald Office.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

ARDROSSAN LADIES CLOTHING SOCIETY
The affairs of the above useful and benevolent Society are at present in a satisfactory state. The Society is one which has, in a quiet way, done an immense amount of good and it is well worthy of support. The treasurer thanks all who have contributed to the funds of the Society. The last financial year we note from a report submitted by the secretary, the receipts of the Society, including £23 collected and £2 from Miss Gullan's concert fund, were £32 2s 1d. The expenditure totalled £29 11s 8d. There is thus a balance on the right side of £2 10s 5d and the good work continues.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

CONSERVATIVE CLUB
Yesterday (24 October 1901), the initial operations for the erection of the new Club Rooms of the Ardrossan Conservative Association were begun. The premises will be erected to plans prepared by Mr Thomson, architect, Saltcoats and will, it is estimated, cost £1000. A large hall with reading and writing rooms and a caretaker's house will be included in the building. The work has been secured by the following tradesmen: mason work - Mr John Inglis, Ardrossan; joiner work - Mr Robert Frew, Stevenston; plumber work - Mr John Lambert, Ardrossan; slater work - Mr James Allison, Ardrossan and plasterwork - Messrs Murray and McCallum, Saltcoats.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

NEW MINISTER FOR ARDROSSAN EVANGELICAL UNION CHURCH
The Minister elect, the Reverend George Sharpe (shown below), Chateaugay, New York, has accepted the call from the congregation of the Evangelical Union Congregation Church, Ardrossan. Our readers will remember that on several occasions during the summer, the Reverend Mr Sharpe occupied the pulpit of the church and so acceptable were his ministrations at that time that the congregation asked him to consider a call.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

ARDROSSAN BURGH FINANCES
There is no more interesting document than the annual balance sheet of a progressive burgh. The gradual increase in the figures on both sides of the ledger testifies more eloquently than words to the town's prosperity and to the greater responsibility resting upon the ratepayers' representatives. The readiness with which money can be borrowed is a strong temptation to launch out into expensive schemes and we have only to mention that the fact that the loans taken on by Ardrossan and Saltcoats total respectively £45000 and £21000 to show how burdens accumulate and of themselves constitute a tax upon the people.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY ENTERTAINMENT
Ardrossan Academy pupils are practicing for an entertainment which they intend giving this winter.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

SIR GEORGE WHITE PASSES THROUGH ARDROSSAN
Sir George White (shown below in 1900), the hero of Ladysmith, passed through Ardrossan on Tuesday night (22 October 1901) on his way to Belfast.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901
More information on Sir George White can be seen by clicking here and here.

ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT LODGE SOIREE
The thirty-first grand annual soiree of the Lifeboat Lodge, Ardrossan, number 171, Lodge of Good Templars takes place tonight (25 October 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN MADE FREEMAN OF GLASGOW
Mr James Black, Ardrossan, has been made a freeman and burgess of the City of Glasgow for services rendered in South Africa.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

ARDROSSAN RATEPAYERS' MEETING
Ardrossan ratepayers will have an opportunity on Tuesday night (22 October 1901) of airing local grievances and heckling prospective candidates on their views. The prospects of a lively contest are bright.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

THE LITTLE MINISTER IN ARDROSSAN
The ever-famous comedy by J M Barrie, The Little Minister, is visiting the Assembly Hall on Friday 8 November under the direction of Mr Frederic de Lara and Mr Gordon Doone. The company is an excellent one and is meeting with record success everywhere. The play abounds with humour both of situation and of expression. The situations are cleverly constructed and effective and the story raises none of the disturbing questions which so many modern plays call up, merely to leave unanswered. The times and places of the events are remote from our everyday lives, an atmosphere of charm and romance.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901
J M Barrie also wrote The Old Lady Shows Her Medals, the play that The Ardrossan and Saltcoats Players performed in New York on 12 May 1928 to win the David Belasco Cup which might be regarded as the world cup of drama.

ARDROSSAN HARBOURS CASUALTIES BENEFIT FUND BALANCE SHEET
One Who Knows sends us the following balance sheet which should be satisfactory to all who assisted in any way to the raising of the funds on behalf of the relatives of the lads drowned off Ardrossan Harbour (on 9 June 1901).
  income
     5 July            By cycle parade                                     £47 3s 10 1/2d
     15 July          By Rovers Football Club                        £2 13s 3 1/2d
     15 August    By Celtic Football Club                           £14 7s 2d
                                                               total income     £64 4s 4d
  expenditure
     15 July          To each relative (4) - £5 10s                 £22 0s 0d
     16 August     To each relative (4) - £3 11s 9 1/2d     £14 7s 2d
     11 October   To each relative (4) - £6 15s 0 1/2d     £26 0s 2d
                          expenses re parade                               £0 17s 0d
                                                       expenditure total      £64 4s 4d
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

FINED FOR FAILING TO EDUCATE
At Ardrossan Justice of the Peace Court on Friday (18 October 1901), a general dealer of Townhead Street, Stevenston was convicted of a contravention of the Education Act by failing to educate his sons of eleven years and nine years. The eleven-year-old was sent to the training ship at Helensburgh and the nine-year-old to Kilmarnock Industrial School in each case till they attain the age of sixteen years.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 October 1901

SERGEANTS' DANCE PHOTO

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

MUNICIPAL ELECTION - ARDROSSAN RATEPAYERS AND THE CANDIDATES
On Tuesday evening (29 October 1901) the Ardrossan ratepayer exercised 'his richts'. The Assembly Hall was packed with citizens who wanted to know what the gentlemen who desire to work for them for nothing but criticism meant to do if it pleased the electors to send them to tread the stair case carpet of Kilmahew. Councillor Harvey presided. There were also on the platform Councillors Hogarth and Guthrie, Messrs Barrie and Crawford, retiring members who desire re-election and Messrs Smith, Porter, Cree and Herbert, new candidates.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSAN CYCLE CLUB DANCE
The local cyclists dance in the Drill Hall on 22 October.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

ARDROSSAN LITERARY SOCIETY
Ardrossan Literary Society will on Tuesday evening (5 November 1901) discuss the contents of the Magazine to which members have contributed some remarkable papers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

HIGH PRESSURE GAS
Quite a number of ratepayers and gas consumers are convinced that the gas is being pressed on them a great deal too strongly. They are quite right too. Over-pressure runs up the bills.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

ERROR IN BENEFIT FUND STATEMENT
Eagle-eyed financiers who noticed as slight error in the financial statement of the benefit fund in connection with the boating accident at Ardrossan (on 9 June 1901) are herby assured that it was only a misprint.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

LAST PATIENT LEAVES ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS HOSPITAL
As the last patient left Ardrossan and Saltcoats Joint Hospital this week, it would be well to let 'that dog' loose so that a few microbes might be distributed and the hospital doctor saved from death from starvation.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

PRESENTATION TO ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE MAN
Mr Hugh Donnan who was in the Saltcoats branch of the Ardrossan Cooperative Society and is now in Uddingston has been made the recipient of a beautiful of the respect and good wishes of his coast-town friends.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT LODGE SOCIAL
The annual social meeting held under the auspices of the Ardrossan Lifeboat Lodge, number 171, Lodge of Good Templars was successfully brought off in the Templars' Hall last Friday evening (25 October 1901). Brother H Flynn, Chief Templar, presided ably and in his introductory remarks indicated that the position of the Lodge throughout the year since the last social. A very fine programme was submitted after tea. The Misses Travers sang most acceptably and Mr John Miller also contributed to the musical programme and to the enjoyment of a very large gathering as did a popular friend. Most worthy of favourable comment was the duet of the Misses Matthewson, Ardrossan, whose singing was excellent. Included in the attractive programme were gramophone selections by Mr Wilson. These were enjoyed. Miss J Becket, who gave several recitations displaying elecutionary gifts of a higher order, was most successful in the pieces chosen. The Misses Higgins also recited well, particulary the last hymn. Altogether, the entertainment was very good.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 November 1901

CLEANER WANTED FOR ARDROSSAN ACADEMY

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

MAN KILLED ON ARDROSSAN RAILWAY LINE
On Wednesday afternoon (6 November 1901), James Poland, a man over sixty years of age who was employed as a surfaceman was knocked down by the Arran express while at work on the Glasgow and South-Western line between the Harbour and Ardrossan Station. He sustained very severe injuries. He was immediately conveyed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow where he died shortly after admission.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

PRESENTATION TO MR WILLIAM BROWN, POSTMAN
On the occasion of his retiral from the postal service after a connection extending over thirty-five years, Mr William Brown was on Friday (1 November 1901) made the recipient of expressions of the respect and esteem of the postmaster and staff of Ardrossan Post Office. On that evening, a deputation presented Mr Brown with a gold-mounted walking stick, a gents umbrella and a travelling bag. The gifts were accompanied with the good wishes of the givers and Mr Brown's acknowledgement was most hearty.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

ARDROSSAN HARBOUR BUSY
Ardrossan Harbour has been remarkably busy this week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

ARDROSSAN NINETY-ONE YEAR OLD LADY VOTES FOR FIRST TIME
On Tuesday (5 November 1901), an Ardrossan lady, ninety-one years of age, took advantage for the first time of her voting rights.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY PUPILS GO TO THE GLASGOW EXHIBITION
The Academy pupils had a holiday on Wednesday (6 November 1901) and many of them spent and educative day at the Glasgow Exhibition.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

PROVOST YOUNG'S WORKMEN GO TO THE GLASGOW EXHIBITION
Provost Young, Ardrossan, with commendable generosity, gave his workmen a holiday with a day's wage on Saturday (2 November 1901) and defrayed their rail fares to Glasgow in order that they might enjoy a day at the Glasgow Exhibition.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

SUCCESSFUL DANCE ASSEMBLY
The large number of pupils who attended the dancing classes taught by Mr Barbour, Ardrossan, has a very successful assembly on Friday evening last (1 November 1901)
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

ARDROSSAN MAN WINS PRIZES AT ENGLISH TUMBLER CLUB SHOW
At the English Tumbler Club show held at Birmingham on Wednesday (6 November 1901), Mr John Brown, Ardrossan, won three first, one second and a fourth prize, including a fifteen guinea challenge cup for long-faced tumblers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

ARDROSSAN MUNICIPAL ELECTION RESULT
With seven candidates for four seats, Ardrossan was mildly excited on Tuesday (5 November 1901). There was quite a stir in the vicinity of the polling station throughout the day. The weather was good. Considerable interest was taken in the contest, the man in the street recognising that the retiring councillors who sought re-election has some rivals for honours. Canvassing was actively carried on by most of the seven who were Mr George Barrie, Mr James Goodwin and Mr Archibald Crawford, retiring members; Mr J R Smith, Mr Lewis Porter, Mr W Craig and Mr J Herbert, new candidates. Between 6 and 8 pm, business was somewhat brisk
A fair crowd of fair dimensions awaited the result of 'the count' and the announcement of the figures was received with the usual cheers. The ratepayers had placed the candidates in the following order:
J R Smith 507
Archibald Crawford 346
Lewis Porter 292
James Goodwin 251
George Barrie 206
William Craig 167
J Herbert 76
There was considerable surprise that Mr Barrie was unplaced. For many years, he has given to the work of the Council earnest and devoted effort. When the Council meets to elect magistrates and rearrange committees, it will be composed of William Young, Provost (shown below left in the early 1890s); John Harvey; F A P Bennett; John Hogarth (shown below right in the early 1890s); G C Guthrie; J R Smith; Archibald Crawford and James Goodwin. Ex-Bailie Smith, who did not seek re-election at this time, partnered ex-Bailie on the magisterial bench. The new members, Messrs J R Smith and Lewis Porter, are men of whose business ability there can be no question and if the ratepayers of Ardrossan have lost true and tried men, they may assure themselves of having secured good men to fill their places. The Burgh affairs in several directions have reached the point the utmost care and ability on the part of our municipal administrators is a necessity.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

MISSIONARY MEETING IN ARDROSSAN
A missionary meeting of more than ordinary interest is announced to be held in Saint John's Church, Ardrossan on Thursday first (14 November 1901). The speaker, Mr J Love Tindal is not unknown to local people, having had a business connection with Saltcoats some few years ago. We trust the Women's Missionary Association, under whose auspices the meeting is being held, will be rewarded by a large and appreciative audience.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901

ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE SOCIETY LIMITED
The one hundred and twenty fifth general meeting of the above Society was held on Friday evening (1 November 1901) in the Good Templars' Hall, Mr Robert Alexander presiding. The attendance was large and the meeting, which lasted for nearly three hours, was a lively and interesting one. The minutes of the last quarterly meeting and minutes of committee meetings held during the quarter were passed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 November 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

ROBERT BARBOUR JUNIOR

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

IN MEMORIAM - JOHN BOYD, BUILDER, ARDROSSAN
On Tuesday (12 November 1901), there was laid to rest in Ardrossan Cemetery (in the grave shown in the photographs below), one who was largely identified with the making of the town. For forty-five years, Mr John Boyd was one of its prominent citizens, deeply interested in its welfare and actively engaged in raising memorials of its progress. His life was busy one. He well earned the few years of rest and contentment which he was spared to enjoy and when on Friday night (8 November 1901), the call came to him he entered upon his voyage into the Unseen without a struggle save that regret which all must feel at the thought of leaving loved ones behind. Mr Boyd was born in Ardrossan on 24 November 1824. His family was one of the oldest in the town. After completing his schooling, he served his apprenticeship to the mason trade with his father and along with his brother William, took his first contract, number 6 Crescent, in 1846. Between that date and 1852, Mr Boyd wrought as a journeyman for short periods in Glasgow and Greenock but from 1852 to 1897, he carried on business as a builder in Ardrossan, Arran and district. When we remember that Ardrossan had only been six years previous to 1852 erected into a Burgh and that the railway was not acquired by the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company until 1854, that three of the banks in town were opened subsequent to 1857 and that, with the exception of the New Parish Church, that year also witnessed the erection of the first of the other four churches, we can form some idea of the part that Mr Boyd played in the development of the town. He was the contractor for the development of the Town Buildings, the foundation stone of which was laid in 1858 and he it was who built the Independent, Saint John's, Park and Episcopal Churches. Further evidence to his abilities as a builder is witnessed to by the Public School and Seafield. In Arran, he did a considerable amount of work for the estate. In fact, he was as well known throughout the island as in Ardrossan. Beside building the Parish and Free Churches in Whiting Bay and the Free Church in Lamlash, he built a large number of private dwellings. As an employer, he was highly respected by his workmen and among other builders, his opinion always carried considerable weight. In the midst of his building operations, Mr Boyd found time to serve on the Council and take a prominent part in local pastimes. He was a councillor for twenty-seven years during which time his practical knowledge and sound common sense were of inestimable value in forwarding projects beneficial to the town. After the death of Provost Barr, Mr Boyd was elected president of the Castle Curling Club for successive years and took a prominent part in all the games and matches. Bowling was also a favourite exercise with him, his membership with the Club dating as far back as 1858. In politics, Mr Boyd was a Liberal by conviction and never hesitated to express his opinions on the questions of the day. His last public appearance was on the day of the general election in October last year when he visited the polling booth and recorded his vote for Mr Williamson. The United Presbyterian Church had his practical sympathy from the time of its erection and his death thins still further the ranks of the few now left to tell the story of its inception and its early struggles. Apart from his business and public qualities, Mr Boyd was a most estimable man. There was a warmth in his handgrip and a friendliness in his smile that bespoke a generous nature. The memory of him is fragrant and we pay this tribute to his worth in appreciation of his good qualities and in remembrance of many pleasant applications.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901


The inscription on the gravestone is:
Erected by John Boyd, builder, in memory of his daughter, Jane Drape who died 29 September 1870 aged 6 years
the above John Boyd died 8 November 1901 in the 77th year of his age
Jean Barker Drape, his wife, died 24 July 1920 died in the 90th year of her adage
their son Robert Drape Boyd, late agent Royal Bank of Scotland, Kilmarnock died 18 September 1931 aged 73 years
Mary Boyd eldest daughter of the above John Boyd died 18 April 1945, aged 85 years
Annie Jardine Boyd youngest daughter of the above John Boyd, died 20 May 1952, aged 81 years
Jane Kerr of Sanquhar died 26 June 1888, aged 80 years

GALE CAUSES ACCIDENTS TO SCHOOLCHILDREN
Tuesday's gale was responsible for a number of slight accidents to school children in Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY BICYCLE SHED
The roof of the bicycle shed at the Academy was lifted from its fastening on Tuesday morning and spread over the front lawn.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY LEAVING CERTIFICATES
On Tuesday (12 November 1901), in the presence of some of the Board members, a large number of Ardrossan Academy pupils were presented with their leaving certificates which they had gained.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

MODEL YACHTS IN ARDROSSAN
The model yachts which are being fitted out in Ardrossan just now are numerous and beautiful. Mr John Black, Ardrossan has a nice metal-built craft ready for rigging.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

ORGAN RECONSTRUCTION IN NEW PARISH CHURCH
The organ of Ardrossan New Parish Church is about to undergo a thorough reconstruction at the hands of Messrs Ingram, Hope, Jones and Company, Hereford. The additions include the introduction of a patent tubular pneumatic action and the work is expected to be completed by Christmas.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

IMPROVED BATHS SOUGHT
Ardrossan ratepayers seem to favour swimming baths or at least some improvement on the bathing facilities. It may interest them to know that through the agency of the London Schools Swimming Association, 20000 youngsters in the metropolis have become proficient swimmers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL
The resignation of Mr Frank A P Bennett from the Council was, though not by any means inevitable, the somewhat natural result of his treatment by his fellow members. There cannot be two opinions as to his right over a bailieship and the election of others over his head must have been unpleasant. No coherent reason was given at the Council meeting for the abandonment of the 'seniority' rule, a rule which holds good in almost every well-conducted Council. All the same, Mr Bennett could afford to be magnanimous. Mr J R Smith gives promise of considerable controversial activity and there can be no doubt that he will be an acquisition to the Council. His enquiry into the condition of the gas accounts on Monday evening (11 November 1901) was searching and timeously so. Apparently, he means to have no fear of taking a decided stand against the anachronisms wherewith as a community we are burdened. Mr Lewis Porter, too, is likely to be of some public service. Bailie Hogarth ought to be congratulated on the success on his effort on behalf on the settlement of the long-mooted question of printing the Council minutes. It was ridiculous that the Council should have been content at this time of day with the antiquated and quite unserviceable method of having the minutes read by a clerk. Now indeed, it looks as if we have a Council which proposes to progress.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL
This Council held their last monthly meeting for the present term of office on Tuesday night last (12 November 1901) in the Saltcoats office, Mr Alexander Hamilton, chairman, presiding. There were also present Messrs Robert Brown, James B Aitken, Captain Torrance, William Gilroy, William Tannock, David Bell, John Anderson, James Bryden, Hugh Currie, Edward Markie, John Norris and Bailie Miller, also Mr Ritchie, clerk and inspector. The minutes being read and approved and the regular business disposed off, the chairman addressed the meeting in the following terms. Gentlemen, tonight, the present Parish Council are met virtually for the last time. It occurred to me that at this meeting we might look back on the work of this and previous Councils and I have gathered together a few statistics myself and also through the aid of Mr Ritchie, our clerk.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

THIEVES ARRESTED WITHIN TWO HOURS
Between Monday night (11 November 1901) and Tuesday morning (12 November 1901), two cases of housebreaking - or rather shopbreaking - occurred in Ardrossan. It was found that the tobacconist's premises in Princes Street occupied by Mrs Wilson had been entered from a back window, the thieves breaking the window, releasing the snib and then breaking the shutter. Property of considerable value had been taken including two watches, two gold chains, two rings, some money, cigarettes et cetera. The ice-cream shop in Princes Lane had also been broken into in a similar manner and a quantity of chocolates, cigarettes and sweets stolen. Information was lodged with the police about nine o'clock on Tuesday morning. Two hours later, Sergeant Allan and Police Constable Cameron arrested in Glasgow Street, Ardrossan a couple of youths in connection with the burglaries. On being searched, the prisoners were found to be in possession of almost all of the property stolen. On Wednesday (13 November 1901), the youths, both labourers slightly over seventeen years of age, were conveyed to Kilmarnock and at the Sheriff Court were sentenced to imprisonment for forty days. That the culprits were under arrest and the stolen property recovered within two hours of alleging of the information is a matter for satisfaction and reflects considerable credit on the local police. One of the labourers was also charged with theft from an automatic machine at the Harbour but the charge was departed from.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 November 1901

ARDROSSAN VOLUNTEER ARTILLERY DANCE
The Sergeants and local Artillery Company had a most enjoyable time last Friday evening (15 November 1901). The Drill Hall was gay. The dance was a great success and master of ceremonies Ferris contributed not a little to that success.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 November 1901

MADAME BENNETT'S CONCERT
As will be seen from our advertising columns, we are to have a visit on Saturday first (23 November 1901) in the Assembly Hall of Madame Bennett's Concert Party. Madame herself is known all over Scotland as being one of the best music teachers. She brings with her a most talented company including that great entertainer Charlie Williams who is recognised as being the greatest big boot dancer on the stage also Nellie Bolton, a charming serio and dancer. The other members of the company are all well-known favourites therefore there should be a good turnout to welcome this talented company.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 November 1901

ARDROSSAN CYCLING CLUB DANCE
Members and friends of the local Cycling Club dance tonight (22 November 1901) in the Drill Hall.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 November 1901

MODEL YACHTS CHALLENGE MEDAL
Tomorrow afternoon (23 November 1901), at 2.30 pm, the model yachts entered for the race for the Challenge Medal will sail for the trophy. The course is to be laid from Montgomerie Pier and will be a triangular one, two hundred yards each leg. Some very fine boats are entered. Mr Angus Maclean has built a beautiful and splendidly-finished craft, which is entered for the race, the other competitors' models belonging to Mr John Black, Mr H Hughes junior, Mr A Allan and Mr John Watson. A very interesting contest should be witnessed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 November 1901

EVANGELICAL UNION CONGREGATION CHURCH - INDUCTION OF REVEREND GEORGE SHARPE
On the morning of Sabbath last (24 November 1901), the Reverend George Sharpe whom the congregation of the Evangelical Union Congregation Church, Ardrossan had called from Chateaugay, New York to be their pastor was inducted to the charge. Reverend T MacRobert, Dreghorn occupied the pulpit at the morning service and preached to a large congregation.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

IN MEMORIAM - JAMES TYRE, DRAPER, ARDROSSAN
The late Mr James Tyre, a well-known figure has been taken from our midst this week and Ardrossan people at home and abroad will note with regret the passing away another of those worthy men who were identified with the development of the town during the last half century. Mr James Tyre, draper, died on Wednesday evening (27 November 1901) aged eighty-seven years and eight months. A native of West Kilbride, he went to Glasgow in early life and served his apprenticeship to the drapery trade in Simpson's well-known establishment at the corner of Jamaica Street. About the year 1844, he came to Ardrossan and started business in premises where the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Station now stands. About fifty years ago, he removed to the part of Princes Street in which his business is presently being conducted and built up a first-class trade. He was a member of the Established Church, a member who for long took an earnest and active interest in its work. Public matters received also from him a share of his time and energy and for several terms, he occupied a seat at the Council table. He was highly respected by all. The funeral will be a public one and takes place tomorrow afternoon (30 November 1901) at 3 pm. Mr Tyre came from a family noted for longevity. Of eight members of that family, two of whom are still living, two of whom are still living, the total ages amount to 664 years - truly a remarkable figure.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

James Tyre's gravestone is shown below. The inscription is:
Erected by James Tyre in memory of his daughter, Elizabeth Potts died 15 June 1862 aged 6 years and 4 months
Anne Barclay Tyre died March 1875 aged 17 years and 3 months
the above James Tyre died 27 November 1901 in his 88th year
Margaret Bain, wife of the said James Tyre died 8 September 1914 aged 80 years
his son, Alexander Bain died at Manila, P I, died 4 April 1932 aged 68 years
James's brother Hugh Tyre on died 23 September 1884 aged 74 years is commemorated on an adjacent grave
.

ARDROSSAN COOPERATORS' SUPPER AND DANCE
The directors and employees of the Ardrossan Cooperative Society Limited had an enjoyable supper and dance in the Town Hall, Ardrossan on Wednesday night (27 November 1901). Mr Robert Alexander, president, occupied the chair and there were about eighty present. The hall had been specially decorated for the occasion and looked exceedingly bright as the company sat down to a first-class supper which was served in first-class style by the Society's purveying department under Mr Ewing. In his opening remarks, the chairman alluded to the fact that the Society was now thirty-one years of age. Recalling the occasion of its birth, he spoke of the efforts of Mr Thomas Miller who was still a member and who had striven so loyally at the time to convince the community of the advantages of cooperation by borrowing a rule book from a neighbouring Society and calling a meeting in which was then known as Gemmell's School, Princes Lane.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN CYCLING CLUB DANCE
The Cyclists' Dance in the Drill Hall last Friday night (22 November 1901) was enjoyed by a company of between forty and fifty couples.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

ARDROSSAN SOLICITOR BECOMES MEMBER OF INCORPORATED SOCIETY OF LAW AGENTS OF SCOTLAND COUNCIL
Mr Thomas Kirkhope, solicitor, Ardrossan has been selected a member of Council of the Incorporated Society of Law Agents of Scotland.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

SABBATH SCHOOL PRESENTATION
On the occasion of his marriage, Mr James Glendinning was made the recipient of a teacher's bible and hymnary by the Sabbath School teachers of Saint John's, Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
The Talking Club invites all intelligent men to its first meeting in the hall of Saint John's United Free Church, Ardrossan on Tuesday evening (4 December 1901) at eight o'clock. The concentration camps will be discussed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

PRESENTATION TO MR WILLIAM BROWN, POSTMAN
It has been arranged that the town's presentation to Mr William Brown, retired postman shall take the form of silver watch and parcel of sovereigns. It will be made in the presence of subscribers on Wednesday afternoon (5 December 1901).

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB
In the presence of a good number of very interested spectators, the first race was held under the auspices of the local Model Yacht Club. The first race was started off Montgomerie Pier last Saturday afternoon (23 November 1901). Mr Charles Murchie, vice-commodore and Mr Samuel Black acted as umpires. Six boats entered and there was some interesting sailing. The Challenge Medal presented by Mr James Barbour was not, however, awarded on Saturday owing to a misconception of the sailing regulations. The Club held a meeting on Tuesday evening (4 December 1901) when it was decided that he match for the Medal will come off next season, probably in the month of March. Meanwhile, the Club is setting about improving its position and it is more than likely that the beginning next season will find it in an excellent position both as to membership and yachts.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

ARDROSSAN YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION SOCIAL
A very successful series of meetings in connection with the Young Men's Christian Association, Ardrossan will be brought to a close by a social on Monday night (3 December 1901). Helpful addresses will be given by Mr E J Hill, chairman, Mr Peden and Mr Gellatley and interspersed with these will be solos and hymns.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 November 1901

SAINT JOHN'S AND PARK CHURCHES JOINT MISSION WEEK

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

ARDROSSAN CASTLE CURLING CLUB RECORDS SYMPATHY WITH MRS BOYD
At a meeting of Ardrossan Castle Curling Club on Wednesday week (27 November 1901), the Club expressed and decided to record its sympathy with Mrs Boyd and family on the bereavement they have sustained in the death of Mr John Boyd, one of the oldest members of the Club and who, prior to his death, was its honorary president.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

ARDROSSAN CASTLE CURLING CLUB LEGACY
The Ardrossan Castle Curling Club has been found entitled to an handsome bequest. The circumstances are a little peculiar and of considerable local interest. The late Provost Barr of Ardrossan (shown below in 1878) who was for many years a prominent and enthusiastic member of the Club bequeathed by his will to the president and office-bearers of the Club two five percent guaranteed shares of £100 each of the Glasgow and South-Western Railway to be held by them and their successors in office in trust for the purpose of applying the income thereof to the extent of £1 5s yearly in purchasing an annual medal for annual competition by the members of the Club and to the extent of £8 15s in purchasing coals for distribution among such poor or deserving widows resident in Ardrossan as they might select.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

PARK CHURCH ORGANIST APPOINTMENT
Mr Robert Adams has been appointed organist to the Park Church, Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

COUNTY CONSTABULARY BALL
A County Constabulary Ball take place ere long. Three Ardrossan 'bobbies' will be there.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

EVANGELICAL UNION CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOUR SOCIETY
The Ardrossan Evangelical Union Congregational Church Christian Endeavour Society had a pleasant social last Friday evening (29 December 1901).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

ARDROSSAN YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
A social meeting under the auspices of the Ardrossan Young Men's Christian Association was held on Monday evening (2 December 1901). It was enjoyable and very profitable.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

KIMBERLEY MINES APPOINTMENT
Mr W Reid, son of Mr W Read, Ardrossan and a native of Beith leaves for an appointment in the Kimberley Mines tomorrow, Saturday (7 December 1901). Mr Reid has taken a notion of the life out there since his visit as an Ayrshire yeoman.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
There was a pleasing, large attendance at the first meeting of the Talking Club in Saint John's Church Hall on Tuesday evening (3 December 1901) although considering all things, it might easily have been larger. However, there is every likelihood that the Club will be successful opening, as it does, its doors to everyone. The discussion on the concentration camps was spirited and even oratorical and we are pleased to note that when the decision of the meeting was requested, the rational and Liberal view of the question was overpowered by no more than one vote. Next Tuesday evening (10 December 1901), the vexed question of the House of Lords will be discussed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

ARDROSSAN PARISH SCHOOL BOARD
The above body met on Wednesday afternoon (4 December 1901). The C J Shearer presided and Miss Moffat, Reverend R Mordue, Reverend W Rossie Brown, Mr E J Hill and Mr John Morris were present. From the minutes, it appeared that he Board had agreed to increase the salary of the headmaster of the Academy by £25 as from last September and £25 from September next. The officers' reports showed the average attendance at the schools for the month to have been - Eglinton 389, 88%; Winton 396, 87%; Saltcoats 709, 88%; Academy 3216, 91%. The Board fixed the holidays for the schools - Christmas Day, one week to include New Year's Day, one week in spring to include the Glasgow Spring Holiday and six weeks in summer. The schools will therefore be closed on Christmas Day and also from Monday 30 December till Monday 6 January. This was all the business of public interest.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
The Town Council met in Kilmahew on Monday evening (9 December 1901). Provost Young presided and Bailie Goodwin and Councillors Bennett, Guthrie, Harvey, Crawford and Smith were also present. The Clerk read a communication regarding the Convention of Burghs which will take place at Edinburgh on 1 April 1902. It was requested that Ardrossan Town Council should appoint two representatives, a Commissioner and an Assessor to be present and that they should prepare a memorandum of such matters as they would wish to have discussed by the Convention. Mr Guthrie moved that Provost Young and the Clerk be appointed delegates After some discussion the motion was unanimously upheld. A letter from the Town Clerk of Govan craved the support of the Ardrossan Council for a movement to place Burghs on the same footing as the County Council in disputes arising from a wish to extend the boundaries of any Burgh. As it is, the County Council, should they oppose such an extension have the right of appealing to the Court of Session against the decision of the Sheriff. Burghs have not the right and the Govan Council purpose taking steps to ameliorate this condition of affairs. It was agreed to support the movement. The Burgh Surveyor submitted plans for Barrie Terrace, the proposed new road. These plans had been sent by Lord Eglinton's surveyor for the approval or disapproval of the Council. The Burgh Surveyor had some objections to them. They did not coincide with certain arrangements already made by the Council, especially in the matter of drains. Mr Crawford said it was hard lines to be at so much expense to put in a main drain only to find the general plan altered to suit the convenience of another party. Mr Guthrie asked whether the Council had any right to object to the plan and was informed that they had. Bailie Goodwin gave it as his opinion that they had certainly the right to object as the drain had been laid down in accordance with the instruction they had received at first. Mr Bennett said that the drain had been laid down in accordance with a different plan altogether and in the circumstances he thought the proper thing to do was to adhere to the original plan. Provost Young opined that they should instruct the Burgh Surveyor to go over the old plans and the new and, comparing them carefully, find out to what extent they are dissimilar. Mr Bennett moved that the committee meet with the Earl's surveyor and explain to him their disapproval of the more recent plans. Bailie Goodwin seconded. This was agreed. Mr Harvey, referring to the decision of the Council at the last meeting not to change the name of Eglinton Street at the request of the residenters there, said he did not understand at the time that all inhabitants of the street were in favour of the change. Now he found that there were many arguments in favour of it and he himself was disposed to give it his support. The change was an important one to the residenters though it meant nothing at all to the Council. People objected to the word 'street' because it affected the selling of houses. It was easier to sell houses which were located in a 'road' because that word signified a more suburban neighbourhood than did 'street' and for the same reason, it affected the summer letting of houses. There was no likelihood of anything but cottages and villas being built in Eglinton Street and if, in view of these arguments, the people wished to have it renamed Eglinton Road, he thought the Council should agree to the alteration. He moved to that effect. Mr Guthrie seconded. Mr Bennett supported the motion which eventually was carried.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

WINTRY OUTLOOK FOR ARDROSSAN
The outlook from Ardrossan this week, especially westward, is decidedly wintry.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

UNITED FREE PRESBYTERY MODERATOR
Reverend Arnold Boyd, Dalry, is moderator of the United Free Presbytery of Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
The Talking Club of Ardrossan was at it again on Tuesday evening (10 December 1901) but didn't see its way to abolish the House of Lords.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

MR HARVEY REAPPOINTED
Mr Harvey has been reappointed to represent Ardrossan Parish Council in the Northern District Committee of the County Council.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL CHAIRMAN
Mr Hugh Currie, Ardrossan, has been elected chairman of that happy company, the Ardrossan Parish Council for the coming year.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

LET BYGONES BE BYGONES
Councillor Bennett's resolution to let bygones be bygones is commendable. His reappearance at Kilmahew on Monday evening (9 December 1901) was a welcome one.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

ARDROSSAN MODERATOR ACCEPTS CALL TO GLASGOW
Arran has lost a good minister and Ardrossan United Free Presbytery a moderator by the Reverend James Kennedy's acceptance of a call to Glasgow.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

PRINTED COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
The printed minutes at the Council meetings certainly accelerate the business but it is not to be said that the general output of talk is thereby much diminished. It may even be increased.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

PRESENTATIONS AT VOLUNTEER ARTILLERY
At a pleasant 'smoker' held by the non-commissioned officers of the local Company of the Volunteer Artillery on Tuesday evening (10 December 1901), Sergeant W Dodds was presented with a beautiful walking stick in token of appreciation of his services as secretary of the Sergeants' Dance and ex-Sergeant McMillan was presented with a pipe and case on the occasion of his retiral from the corps.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 December 1901

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - ARDROSSAN TRAMWAYS AND DAILY ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS HERALD
Sir
It is to be hoped these tramways will be carried on in the interests of the general inhabitants. There should be a joint committee of the various town and county councils to look after the general working and property. The plant and cars should be built and maintained within the local districts. This would cause work and wages to the inhabitants and thereby provoke better local trade. The inhabitants should look after their own trade and not let it be seized on behalf of American syndicate millionaires or German millionaire bands of profit-hunters. There is one thing much needed among the crowded boats and seaside crowds of health-seekers and among the crowds on the top of the new cars when they exist and that is an evening daily Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald.
Yours et cetera
Rasie
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 1901

ARDROSSAN UNITED FREE PRESBYTERY VACANCIES
There are two vacant charges within the bounds of Ardrossan United Free Presbytery at present.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 19011

ARDROSSAN SCHOOLS CLOSED DUE TO ILLNESS
Eglinton School and Winton School, Ardrossan are closed until 6 January owing to measles and whooping cough.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
Go to the Talking Club next Tuesday evening (24 December 1901) if you wish to have your ears tickled. Mr Angus McLean will do the tickling.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY EVENING CLASSES
Ardrossan Academy evening classes closed this week for the first part of the session which has so far been very successful. Compared with last winter's session, the attendance register shows an increase of 100 pupils, in all 123. Work will be resumed on 6 January.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 1901

ARDROSSAN, SALTCOATS AND STEVENSTON CHORAL AND ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY CONCERT
Before a large audience, this Society gave its first concert for this season on Tuesday evening (17 December 1901). Punctuality is one of the good points of these concerts and with such very full programmes, this virtue is a necessity much appreciated by those coming from a distance. Among the performers, there seem to be many new faces, not only in the chorus but also in the orchestra.
Yours et cetera
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

THE LATE MR ANDREW LECKIE, ARDROSSAN
Mr Andrew Leckie who died on Saturday last (14 December 1901) came of a good old Saltcoats family who have for a few generations past supplied townsfolk with the staff of life. Mr Leckie was well-known as a musician of some ability and may be regarded as the pioneer organist in this district. In the early seventies, he constructed a pipe organ entirely with his own hands and this instrument he fixed up in the Evangelical Union Church here. Mr Leckie was also an enthusiastic Volunteer and as such was an excellent shot. He was Lieutenant in the local Rifle Corps and was present at the Edinburgh Review in 1861 as bugler. Among his possessions was a key bugle of rare antiquity. Mr Leckie leaves a widow and family who have the sympathy of friends in their bereavement.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
Councillor Crawford's address on Socialism And Christianity at the Talking Club on Tuesday evening (17 December 1901) was exceedingly clever and exceedingly explicit. Naturally, it provoked a great deal of discussion, the views of the members being much at variance. Next week, Mr Angus McLean will have something to say about local social problems, a subject which itself should draw many people to the hearing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 December 1901

ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS BUSY AT CHRISTMAS TIME
Christmas Eve found the Saltcoats streets and the Ardrossan thoroughfares busy indeed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

CHRISTMAS MORNING AT ARDROSSAN POST OFFICE
To wish a postal official 'A Merry Christmas!', savours of sarcasm; to wish him a 'lively Christmas' is altogether unnecessary. He will have a lively time in any case. Ardrossan Post Office at about seven o'clock on Christmas morning was, like all British Post Offices then, a very busy place, a much busier place than any could imagine. It must be remembered that at Ardrossan, the mail for the big portion of Arran is dealt with and what that means on a Christmas morning was abundantly evident on Wednesday (25 December 1901). The Arran folks may have their little differences and squabbles when they've nothing else to do about religious matters, for instance, but those of them on the mainland don't forget their friends on the island at Christmas and New Year time. One would not attempt to guess the contents of some of the bulky parcels which went to Arran on Wednesday. They had a very substantial appearance, most of them. Before seven o'clock on Wednesday morning, the Arran mail had monopolised six or seven very capacious hampers and there were more to follow. In short, it was a record Christmas mail for the Arran via Ardrossan route. The local mail was the heaviest yet dealt with both on Christmas Day and the day preceding it.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

CHRISTMAS CHORAL SERVICE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ROYAL NATIONAL LIFEBOAT INSTITUTION

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

GOOD GAS COKE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ARDROSSAN GOOD TEMPLARS
Ardrossan Good Templars meet tonight (27 December 1901) to prove that Templars can enjoy themselves too at this time of year.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

GLEN HEAD REFLOATED
The steamer Glen Head, a frequent visitor to Ardrossan was stranded at Rebal last week but subsequently floated and was brought into that harbour.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
The Talking Club will not meet next week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

GOOSE CLUB DRAW
The season of the Christmas lottery has come again and the Ardrossan Glasgow and South-Western Railwaymen's Goose Club draw came off on Tuesday evening (24 December 1901). There were good prizes.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ARDROSSAN NAUTICAL STUDENT'S SUCCESS
Mr Andrew B Clark from Ardrossan, a student from Captain Tait's Nautical Academy, Oswald Street, Glasgow has passed with credit for Master (Foreign Trade) before the local Marine Board.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

REPORTS OF MIXED WEATHER
At eight o'clock yesterday morning (26 December 1901), according to the Caledonian Railway report from Ardrossan in the Evening Times, the wind blew from the north and there was a frost. According to the Glasgow and South-Western Railway report, the wind was north-westerly and the weather was fresh.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ARDROSSAN HARBOUR BUSY
Ardrossan Harbour, like other Scottish harbours, is busy just now. The Christmas holidays in England cause shippers to send the boats north. Other boats will be kept out of Scotch ports, however, when the harbourmen in this 'North Countree' are bringing in the new year.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ANOTHER DEGREE FOR ARDROSSAN ACADEMY SCIENCE MASTER
Mr John Edwards, M A, science master in Ardrossan Academy, has added the degree of B Sc of London University to his already numerous qualifications. High credit must be granted to Mr Edwards for the attainment of this most valuable degree especially in view of the fact that, at the same time, he was engrossed with his duties at the Academy.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
The Talking Club will not meet next week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY CONVERSAZIONE
On Friday last (20 December 1901), a most successful function, the first of its kind, took place in the Academy when the Academy teachers received a number of their friends in conversazione. During tea, short addresses were given by Mr Mordue, convenor of the Academy Committee and Mr Butters, the rector, welcoming the new departure as likely to form a social link between former pupils, teachers and members of the staff. Thereafter, the company adjourned to the entertainment rooms where a very pleasant time was spent in games, recitation, song and dance, all of which were most enthusiastically entered upon. While the draping spoke volumes for the decorative taste and aesthetic culture of the ladies, the arrangements and organisation reflected the highest credit upon Mr Edwards who acted as master of ceremonies. The purveying had been entrusted to Mrs Black, Saltcoats and was carried out in such an effective and efficient style as ensured the success of what now forms a precedent for gatherings of such a kind in educational circles in Saltcoats and Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 December 1901