ARDROSSAN GENTLEMEN PRESENT AT OPENING OF IRVINE ROYAL ACADEMY
Some Ardrossan gentlemen were present at the opening of the Irvine Royal Academy on Friday last (27 December 1901). One was the Provost.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

ARDROSSAN ARCHICTECT'S PLAN FOR KILWINNING COOPERATIVE BUILDING ACCEPTED
Mr Allan Gilfillan, architect, Ardrossan has had his plan of the proposed Co-operative Buildings in Kilwinning accepted.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

ARDROSSAN BOWLERS ENJOY NEW YEAR'S DAY GAME
Quite a number of Ardrossan bowlers had a game on New Year's Day. There was as strong wind blowing but those who turned out enjoyed themselves.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

TALK ON THE JEWS AT ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
Mr David Harvey means to tell the Talking Club and such members of the public who may care to hear him all about the Jews. The knowledge will be imparted in Saint John's Church Hall on Tuesday first (7 January 1902) at 8 pm.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

ARDROSSAN EVANGELICAL UNION CHURCH
The annual business meeting of the above body was held on Monday evening (30 December 1901) in the hall. There was a pleasant tea. The church is in a very encouraging position and, with the coming of the Reverend Mr Sharpe, has become stronger than ever. We observe that the pastor intends to carry on a series of evangelical meetings which begin on Sabbath evening first (5 January 1902) and will continue during the week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

MISHAP ON ARDROSSAN RAILWAY
On Monday evening (30 December 1901), a slight mishap occurred on the Lanarkshire and Ayrshire Railway between Ardrossan and the Pier Station when half a dozen wagons left the metals. The accident delayed the Belfast express train for some time. The train had a very large complement of passengers and the mail was a heavy one. The obstruction was expeditiously cleared away.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 January 1902

ARDROSSAN MAN FINED FOR ASSAULT
At Monday's (6 January 1902) Burgh Court, a man from Ardrossan was fined £2 for assaulting a man who came forward to wish him a happy new year.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
The Jews are an interesting people and to the members of the Talking Club who heard Mr David Harvey's paper on Tuesday evening (7 January 1902), they are more interesting than ever. It was an excellent paper
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

ARDROSSAN SHAKESPEARE CLUB
Through the courtesy of Mr Forbes Robertson, the members of the Ardrossan Shakespeare Club will at their next meeting will read For The Crown which was first presented at the Lyceum, London in February 1896.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

PRESENTATION TO ARDROSSAN ACADEMY RECTOR
On Monday last, (6 January 1902) the Rector of the Academy (shown below as the ruins of Saint Peter's School in 2002) was made the recipient of a very handsome writing desk from the scholars on the occasion of the opening for business of the new Academy. Mr Murchie, one of the senior pupils made a few appropriate remarks and handed over the desk.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

CAPTAIN MURCHIE RECEIVES NEW YEAR CARD FROM THE FRONT
Captain Murchie recently received good new year card from one of his men, Gunner Alex Mair, Ardrossan who in now serving with the Royal Army Medical Corps at the front. It consisted of three Boar coins equivalent to the shilling, sixpence and threepenny piece sewn on an envelope.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902

PRESENTATION TO MR A J RITCHIE
On Wednesday (8 January 1902), the ships in the harbour were 'dressed', the occasion being the marriage of Mr Alex J Ritchie, cashier to the Ardrossan Harbour Company. In one of the shipping offices at the harbour on Tuesday evening (7 January 1902), Mr Ritchie was entertained by a number of his friends and presented with an expression of their good wishes. Captain Shields (shown below), harbourmaster, presided genially.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 January 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
The monthly meeting of Ardrossan Town Council took place at Kilmahew on Monday evening (13 January 1902). Provost Young (shown below in the early 1890s) presided and the sederunt was composed of Bailie Hogarth and Councillors Harvey, Guthrie, Crawford, Smith and Porter. The minutes of previous meetings were approved. The first business was the fixing upon local tradesmen for Burgh work. The following is the list of those agreed upon: plumber - Charles Price, mason - Smith Brothers, joiner - R S Barbour, ironmonger - Hogarth and company, painter - Gilfillan and Son, blacksmith - McMillan and Son, slater - Hogarth and Company, posting - Mrs Avon.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN UNITED FREE PRESBYTERY TO LOSE ANOTHER MODERATOR?
Last month, Ardrossan United Free Presbytery gave its moderator to Glasgow and this month it has been asked it has been asked to give its new moderator to India.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

RECITALS AND MUSIC IN SAINT JOHN'S CHURCH HALL
An excellent programme of recitals and music has been arranged to be given in Saint John's Church Hall, Ardrossan on Sunday first (19 January 1902). Admission my be had for sixpence
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

A POEM FROM SALTCOATS TO ARDROSSAN?
A long epistle from the Saltcoats Town Clerk to the Town Council of Ardrossan which heard it read on Monday evening 13 January 1902) had a peroration that had a narrow shave of being poetry.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

MR HUGH HOGARTH'S SONS BECOME PARTNERS IN FIRM
Mr Hugh Hogarth, ship owner, Glasgow and Ardrossan, has taken into partnership his sons, Mr S Crawford Hogarth and Mr Hugh Hogarth, junior who have assisted him for about twelve and eight respectively. The designation of the firm will be H Hogarth and Sons.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

THOMAS KIRKHOPE, ESQUIRE - AN APPRECIATION BY THE SCOTS LAW TIMES
Mr Thomas Kirkhope, solicitor, Ardrossan is a native of Kilmarnock and received his education there and at the University of Glasgow. In the law classes, he took a highly distinguished position. He gained his experience in the practice of the law in Glasgow in the offices of Moncrieff, Paterson and Forbes now Moncrieff, Barr, Paterson and Company and Strang, Yuille and Cadens now Cadens, Strang and Girvan, in both of which he held responsible charges. He was one of the earliest members of the Glasgow Legal and Speculative Society and for some time held the offices of secretary and treasurer thereof. He passed as a notary in 1857 and as prosecutor in 1864. He has held various public offices among others, Procurator-Fiscal for the Burgh of Ardrossan and Saltcoats which he resigned some years ago. The only office he now holds is that of Procurator-Fiscal in the Justice of the Peace Court for the district of Saltcoats and as such he conduced many enquiries for the Board of Trade into shipping casualties until these were sent to the Sheriff Court. In local affairs, Mr Kirkhope has taken a prominent part. He was for many years a member of the Parochial Board and School Board of Ardrossan Parish and acted for a term as chairman of each. He was also for many years a Town Councilor in the Burgh of Ardrossan. Besides these offices, his legal brethren in North Ayrshire recently unanimously appointed him Dean of the Faculty of Procurators in Kilmarnock and he is also a member of Council of the Incorporated Society of Law Agents of Scotland.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL
The above body met in the Ardrossan office on the evening of Tuesday last (14 January 1902). The chairman, Mr Hugh Currie, in opening the business wished the councillors the compliments of the season. Previous to the disposal of the ordinary Poor Law business, appeals were held. The Railway Company's appeal was considered and the usual deductions increased from 22 percent to 33 1/3 percent. The question of assessing church halls was brought up by appeals against assessment imposed on local church halls. On consideration of the first appeal, Mr Gilroy held that they should be relieved and moved accordingly. Mr Bryden seconded. Mr Harvey maintained that the interpretation of the law at present was that assessments should be imposed on church halls. He moved that the appeal be dismissed. Captain Torrance seconded. On a division, the amendment was carried by seven votes to four. The other appeals were similarly dealt with. A fair amount of Poor Law business was disposed off. We understand that the question of new Council Chambers is likely to come before the Council soon.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

STEVENSTON AND ARDROSSAN PLOUGHING MATCH

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

A BEAUTIFUL FRIEND

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

T H TAYLOR DENTIST

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 January 1902

STEVENSTON AND ARDROSSAN PLOUGHING MATCH
The above match took place on the farm of Ardeer Mains on Tuesday (21 January 1902). Notwithstanding the weather, thirteen well-equipped teams put in an appearance and the quality of the work done surpassed all former occasions. The judges were Messrs Hugh Miller, Glasgow; James Chalmers, Peasehill, Kilwinning and Mr John McGill, Muirhill, Symington whose awards gave general satisfaction. After the labours of the day were over, between forty and fifty sat down to an excellent tea in the Winton Arms, Stevenston. After the inner man was refreshed to everyone's satisfaction, the usual toast list interspersed with song and sentiment was gone through and enjoyed by all. The secretary's duties were most efficiently carried out by Mr John Alexander, Ardeer Mains.
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

A GUTHRIE AND SONS - END OF SEASON SALE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

SERGEANT ALLAN MAKES ANOTHER ARREST
Sergeant Allan, in his arrest of a housebreaker on Saturday (18 January 1902) has added another to his list of smart captures.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

EGLINTON DOCK AN ASYLUM?
The Eglinton Dock is gradually being recognised as an asylum for unchartered steamboats and may soon rival the Gairlochhead.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

ARDROSSAN'S LARGEST CARGO OF IRON ORE
The largest cargo of iron ore which has ever discharged in Ardrossan came this week by the steamer Conway of West Hartlepool. There were 6400 tons of it.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

A REVOLVING BRUSH TO SWEEP THE STREETS?
The 'clauts' wherewith the streets have been attacked these recent days have not been remarkably efficacious. Might not the local authority procure a revolving brush?
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

ARDROSSAN HAS LOW CANDLEPOWER
Ardrossan is bracketed with Glasgow and Dundee in having the lowest illuminated gas power in Scotland. It is only 20 candlepower while consumers in places such as Alloa, Brechin, Montrose and Helensburgh rejoice in 24 candlepower.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

DEGREE FOR ARDROSSAN GRANDSON
It will interest Ardrossan people to learn that that Dr J Patterson Wilson, son of Mr Wilson, teacher, Johnstone and grandson of Mr Andrew Wilson, engine driver, Ardrossan has obtained the degree of D Ph from King's College, London.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

MISSION MEETING CHARITABLE DONATIONS
Mr Service of Saltcoats has handed £4 10s to Mr Craig, Ardrossan, local treasurer of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Families Association and the Lord Lieutenant's Fund for Widows and Orphans, being the proceeds of mission meetings in the Ardrossan Parish Church.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

HERALD STAFF SAY FAREWELL TO MR TOM TAYLOR
There was a full muster of the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald staff in the composing room of the printing office last Friday (17 January 1902) to do honour to one of their number about to depart for South Africa, Mr Tom C Taylor, reporter. Mr Guthrie, on behalf of Mr Taylor's fellow employees, handed to him a dressing case and an umbrella assuring him of the satisfaction the firm had always in his services and expressing the good wishes of all for his prosperity in the land of his adoption. Mr Taylor made a suitable reply. On the following evening, a select coterie yclept 'The Pitter-Patter Campers' of which Mr Taylor was himself a member, entertained him in the Railway Hotel. There was some speech-making and more singing and the presentation to the guest of a case of brushes and a pocket book. At this function, Mr David Harvey occupied the chair. On Tuesday evening (21 January 1902), the members of the Bible Class of South Beach Church met in the hall thereof with Reverend Charles Lamont in the chair to take official leave of Mr Taylor. In the course of the evening, Mr R Bryce-Orr, in the name of the members of the class, gave him a handsome travelling bag and the good wishes of his classmates. Mr Taylor's acknowledgement was suitable.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 January 1902

VISIT TO ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT
The Lifeboat Committee expect a deputation today (31 January 1902) from Caistor where the recent lifeboat disaster occurred to examine the Ardrossan boat.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 January 1902

ARDROSSAN CYCLING CLUB

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 January 1902

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
As will be seen from our advertising columns, members of this club and those interested in photography are requested to meet to consider the possibility of continuing the struggle for existence. For some time past, there has been a falling off in membership and interest. New blood and fresh enthusiasm are absolutely necessary is animation is to be restored to this once vital body. It is a pity if the club must die. Those who visited its last two annual exhibitions must have been struck with the good work done. It is also a great advantage to visitors that a dark room may be had for developing or changing plates. The Club appeals for outside support. Those who do not work may become honorary members and have privilege of attending Club lectures, lantern shows and exhibitions for the modest fee of five shillings and the ordinary member has full advantage of the dark room for 2s 6d entry and 7s 6d annual subscription.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 January 1902

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
At a meeting held on Monday (3 February 1902), it was agreed to continue the Club. With a view to making it better known to the public, it was arranged to hold an exhibition of work in the middle of March. The Club has been fortunate in fixing a lecture by Mr Walter D Welford of London for Thursday 28 February.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

ARDROSSAN PENNY SAVINGS BANK
The annual meeting of the managers of this bank was held on Saturday last (1 February 1902), Provost Guthrie in the chair. Mr Guthrie submitted the annual report, the figures of which continue to testify to the public's appreciation of the institution. During the year, 3869 deposits, amounting to £412 12s 8d and 551 withdrawals, amounting to £493 6s 2d had been made. The interest credited to accounts during the year amounted to £5 8s 9d and the sum at credit of 455 depositors at 31 December last year was £284 15s 5d. Mr Hill, who has had charge of the Savings Bank for nine years, intimated his resignation as joint treasurer and a committee was appointed to look out for a successor. Cordial thanks were accorded to Mr Hill for his invaluable services and Mr Dimmock was thanked for his attention as clerk.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

ARDROSSAN PARK CHURCH BUSINESS AND SOCIAL MEETING
Ardrossan Park Church (shown below as Church of the Nazarene in 2002) hold their annual business and social meeting in their hall tonight (7 February 1902).

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

ARDROSSAN TALKING CLUB
The Talking Club still continues to thrive. Men say that its next meeting is likely to be of extraordinary interest. Go thither.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

PRESENTATION TO MR THOMAS MILLER
On Friday evening last (31 January 1902), Mr Thomas Miller, one of the teachers in the Ardrossan Evangelical Union Congregational Church Sabbath School was met by his class and made the recipient of a handsome silver mounted walking stick with inscription. Miss Mary Millar made the presentation. The class were later entertained by Mr Miller. We might add that Mr Miller has been a teacher for over forty years and this is not the first time his services have been recognised by his classes.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

MISS MOFFAT RETIRES
Miss Moffat's resignation as a member of Ardrossan Parish School Board will be regretted by everyone. For many years, that lady has devoted a great deal of her time and abilities to the furthering of education in the district and on her initiative, many radical and necessary reforms have been carried through. Miss Moffat has earned her rest from active work and will carry with her into her retirement, hearty appreciation of all her labours and sincere good wishes for health and happiness.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

ARDROSSAN CASTLE CURLING CLUB
The Ardrossan Castle Curling Club played a twenty-one end game yesterday (6 February 1902). Two rinks took part and the following is the result of the game - William Bryce 19, George O Baird 15.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

EGLINTON ROAD DWELLINGS SOLD
On Tuesday (4 February 1902), numbers 67 and 69 Eglinton Road, Ardrossan (shown below in the early 1900s) were sold at the upset price of £900. Numbers 63 and 65, offered at £850, failed to find a purchaser. Cottages sold were bought by Mr Arthur Craig for a client. Mr James Campbell, writer, Saltcoats was the agent and Mr Bennett acted as auctioneer.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

PRUDENTIAL ASSURANCE COMPANY - ANNUAL SOCIAL MEETING OF THE ARDROSSAN STAFF
Semi-Jubilee of Mr William Gilroy, Superintendent
Last Friday evening (31 January 1902), the Lesser Town Hall, Saltcoats was the social meeting place of the superintendent and agents and sub-agents and friends of the local branch of the Prudential Assurance Company. Tea was served at four o'clock and it was such a tea as perhaps only Mrs Caldwell of the Station Temperance Hotel could purvey. At any rate, it was heartily enjoyed. At the end of it, Mr Gilroy (shown below) who occupied the chair, said that he was very pleased to see so many people at this social gathering. He had a number of apologies for absence, both from members of the staff and from friends. There was no need to mention them all particularly but it was only meet to make reference to the absence of two members of the staff who were invalided. It would cheer them in their affliction if a message of sympathy were sent to them. He did not mean to inflict an address upon them although, according to the programme, something of that sort was due from him. Regarding the work of the year, he would say, however, and with the more pleasure seeing it was his semi-jubilee of labour in the company's service, that the combined result was the highest and best they had ever recorded. Their position was sixth in Scotland for 'ordinary' and third for 'industrial' and this was in spite of the fact that the material they had to work on was not to be compared to that of the large cities and town.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.
A semi-jubilee is twenty-five years.

ARDROSSAN SCHOOL BOARD
The usual monthly meeting of the Ardrossan School board took place in the Clerk's office on Wednesday afternoon (5 February 1902). Mr Shearer presided and the other members present were Mr Morris, Mr Hill and the Reverend Mr Adamson (shown below in the early 1900s). Minutes having been read, the Board considered the case of a boy whose truancies from school and general unruliness had rendered necessary a suggestion that he be sent to an industrial school. The boy's mother was exhorted to rule him firmly in the meantime till an opening occur in one or other of the industrial schools.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN SHIPYARD AMBULANCE CLASS
The examination of this class took place last night, Thursday (6 February 1902) in the moulding loft of the Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding company. Dr A Dryden Moffat of Glasgow examined the class. All members present passed with great satisfaction both theoretically and practically. Dr Moffat highly complimented them and will have much pleasure in informing Saint Andrew's Ambulance Association as to the proficiency of the class.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

W G TODD, COAL MERCHANT

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 February 1902

FRANK A P BENNETT, AUCTIONEER AND VALUATOR

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

COTTAGES FOR SALE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

LIME-LIGHT SHOW

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION SOCIAL GATHERING
The annual social gathering of the members of the Young Men's Christian Association was held in the Harbour Street Hall on Thursday evening (13 February 1902). Among the speakers were the Reverend George Sharpe (shown below in 1901) and Mr John McPhail, Greenock. The chair was taken by Mr Hill. During the course of the evening, a programme of music and songs was gone through.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

GOOD TEMPLARS' CONCERT
A concert, under the auspices of the Good Templars' Association, was held on Saturday evening (8 February 1902). Mr Dunlop occupied the chair. Appropriate songs and recitations were rendered by Mrs Hamilton, Saltcoats; Miss Greenlees, Stevenston and Mr Adamson. Miss Wilson made an accomplished violinist. Mr Leckie acted the part of accompanist on the piano very effectively. Tomorrow night (15 February 1902), a lantern exhibition will be the attraction. A number of local views will be thrown on the screen.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

ARDROSSAN CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY LIMITED
The one hundred and twenty sixth general meeting was held in the Good Templars' Hall, Glasgow Street (shown below as the Gospel Hall in 2002) last Friday evening (7 February 1902), Mr Robert Alexander, president in the chair. There would be about sixty members present - rather a small attendance when it is considered the Society has a membership of over eight-hundred. Minutes of the previous quarterly meeting and also of committee meetings held during the quarter were, after much discussion, confirmed.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL
The Parish Council met in the Ardrossan office on Tuesday evening (11 February 1902). Mr Hugh Currie presided and the present were Messrs R Brown, A Duff, John Anderson, William Gilroy, James Bryden, J B Aitken, Harvey, Tannock, Bell and Captain Charles Torrance. After the Poor Law business had been gone through, the Clerk intimated receipt of a circular from the Scottish Office intimating the amount Government Agricultural Grant for the year to be £113 11s 3d. Several accounts were passed for payment. Mr A Duff gave notice of motion that a site for central offices be secured. This was all the business of importance.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 February 1902

IN MEMORIAM - MRS ALLAN, SOUTH AFRICA
It is with sincere regret we intimate this week the death at Klerksdorp, South Africa, of Mrs Allan, wife of Dr W Carrick Allan (shown below) and daughter of Mr James Cook, Town Clerk, Ardrossan. The sad intelligence came by cable on Tuesday (18 February 1902) and was received throughout the town and district with manifest feelings of sorrow. Mrs Allan's long connection with the town, her recent stay amongst us owing to the war in South Africa and the many estimable and attractive qualities she possessed had won for her a large and attached circle of friends. Her sorrow over the death of her only child which took place barely two months ago, found an echo here and now she too has passed away. To Dr Allan in his loneliness and to the sorrowing family, the sympathy of the public will be freely extended.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

ARDROSSAN GOOD TEMPLARS SATURDAY EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
The second of the series of pleasant Saturday Evening Entertainments promoted by the Ardrossan Good Templars was held last Saturday (15 February 1902) in their hall. Mr William Gilroy presided most genially over an audience that filled the building. The greater part of the programme was devoted to a series of lime-light views embracing bits of London, Paris, Glasgow and the immediate neighbourhood taken and exhibited by Mr George Guthrie. Considerable interest was manifested in the local views, the football scenes especially evoking appreciation. Mr Thomas Harvey kindly and efficiently manipulated the lantern. A pleasing variety to the evening's enjoyment was afforded by Mrs George Guthrie, Mr George Bailey and Mr William Clement Guthrie contributing songs and recitations, the accompanists besides a pianoforte selection being played by Mr Alec Becket. Cordial thanks were given to the entertainers and chairman.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

SALE OF PROPERTY IN EGLINTON ROAD
After a spirited competition on Saturday, those cottages, numbers 63 and 65 Eglinton Road, Ardrossan were knocked down to Mr John Crawford, Crawford Lodge. The bidding started at £400 and closed at £422 and £424 respectively. Mr James Campbell acted as agent and Mr Bennett as auctioneer.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

VOLUNTEER DANCE
To open the door of the Drill Hall (shown below in 1974) anytime between eight o'clock last Friday night (14 February 1902) and two on Saturday morning (15 February 1902) was to come suddenly in view of a scene of charm and brilliancy. Every sense received a pleasant shock. Eyes were dazzled by the light, by the whirling draperies and by the abundance of sheer beauty. Ears revelled in music, nostrils were filled with faint odours and is it needful to include the other senses? It is enough to say that this latest dance of the local Volunteers was the most successful in the history of local dances. Upwards of sixty couples took advantage of their invitations and it did seem, even to the momentary intruder, as if sixty couples could not possibly be happier. The casual eye was caught at once by the excellence of the decorations. Everywhere banners and flags and standards and every conceivable sort of bunting had been hung and the general effect was a riot of colour which dreams could not improve upon.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 February 1902

RESIGNATION OF DRILL HALL'S FIRST GYMNASTICS INSTRUCTOR
Mr Arthur Benson who has been for over thirty years instructor at the Glasgow University Gymnasium and who had been obliged to resign his appointment was the first instructor of gymnastics in Ardrossan Drill Hall (shown above in 1974).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

EDWARD MATHIESON

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

ARDROSSAN SHIPYARD AMBULANCE CLASS - PRESENTATION AND SOCIAL GATHERING
The members of the Ardrossan Shipbuilding Ambulance Class arranged to meet on Friday evening last (14 February 1902) in a social capacity for the purpose of making a presentation to Dr Macdonald. When the time arrived, the corps with that spirit of alacrity which is a distinguishing feature of their own - whether called upon to alleviate pain or participate in pleasure - turned out to a man, accompanied by members of their families and friends. The inside of the Temperance Hall which at other times is dismal and dreary was a veritable scene of splendour. Flags and banners adorned the walls and flowers here and there lent further embellishment to the room. The tables were replete with viands such as would have gladdened the heart of the most fastidious epicure.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

BURGH OF ARDROSSAN PRESENTED WITH OLD GAS AND WATER COMPANY BOOKS
Mr John Hogarth has presented to the Burch of Ardrossan the Minute Books belonging to the old Gas and Water Company. They contain much interesting data and will form an excellent source of information regarding important undertakings.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
Mr W D Welford of London will give a lecture and demonstration on Pictorial And Decorative Work in the club's premises tonight (28 February 1902) at 7.30. At the close, the Austin-Edwards prize plates will be shown by limelight.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS SOCIAL
On Friday last (21 February 1902), over a hundred members and friends met to enjoy the club's first social. The meeting was held in the Town Hall (shown below as the Masonic Hall in 2003) and presided over by Mr George Guthrie. After tea, excellently purveyed by the Co-operative Society, a programme of songs was gone through, contributed to by Mrs Mackay, Messrs James Reid, James Templeton, T Bannatyne, John Scott, John Cameron and D Morris, at the close of which the company enjoyed a dance till the small hours, Master James Barbour acting as master of ceremonies.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 February 1902

ARDROSSAN GOOD TEMPLARS' ENTERTAINMENT

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

ARDROSSAN CASTLE CURLING CLUB ANNUAL SUPPER

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

ARDROSSAN SCHOOL BOARD - NOTICE TO EMPLOYERS

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

GLASGOW AND SOUTH WESTERN AMBULANCE CLASS - SOCIAL GATHERING AND PRESENTATION
The seeker after pleasure, whatever be his taste, is sure to gratify his desire for enjoyment for the time being if he spends an evening at a railway gathering but if that gathering be of a social nature then assuredly his cup of happiness will be full. The popularity of such functions may be due to the important part that the 'line' plays in our commercial life but we really think thy owe their success to the ingenuity with which railway employees select their speakers and singers. If that be the case, then we may safely say that everyone who was present at the South-Western Railway Ambulance Social on Friday evening last (28 February 1902), after inwardly uttering a vow that should circumstances allow it, they would put in an appearance at the same gathering twelve months hence. The Town Hall, wherein the assembly met under the chairmanship of Captain Murchie at 7.30, presented a most animated appearance and fifteen minutes later, it is doubtful of a seat could have been had for love or money. After the sumptuous repast which was provided had been partaken off, the chairman addressed the audience. In opening his remarks, he said they were met to celebrate the seventh annual social gathering in connection with the Ambulance Class and judging from the programme submitted, they would, he felt assured, spend a most enjoyable evening, He thanked the committee for the honour they had conferred upon him in appointing him chairman. Probably the reason why they had done so was owing to the fact that many volunteers not connected with the railway had joined the ambulance class which caused him therefore to be indirectly connected with their corps. Continuing, he informed the audience in a jocular manner that he did not intend to inflict a punishment by asking them to listen to him for a great length of time, he only purposed addressing a few remarks. There seemed to be a boom, he said, in ambulance class socials. He noticed in that day's paper that another local corps had held their gathering the previous week and, according to the report, a few of the speakers made the assertion that their's was the best ambulance class in the vicinity. All he, the chairman, could say with reference to them was that he thought they were to a great extent deficient in modesty. (Laughter and here, hear.) One reason why the railway ambulance class was so successful was owing to the able way in which Dr Allan had conducted the class. Of all the members he had taught, no one had failed in the examination. Dr Milroy of the Saint Andrew's Ambulance Association, in his report, said it was the best class he had ever come across. Another reason for their success was due to the great interest Mr Gillies took in the class. His sympathy with the movement must have tended to stimulate the members in their work. One more cause for their prosperity he attributed to their possessing an able captain and an energetic secretary. He was sure that the members would feel they had brought the corps up to perfection. In concluding, he wished the class every success. After a few songs had been sung, Mrs Shields presented medallions and certificates to the corps. Sergeant Allan on being called upon to make the presentation said that as Dr Allan was very popular in the district, it made his task all the more easy. In alluding to the work of the class, he said that Dr Allan, in giving so much of his time on their behalf, was making a praiseworthy sacrifice. With regard to the class itself, he endorsed all the statements made by Captain Murchie. He thereafter, on behalf of the members of the Ambulance Corps, presented a beautiful silver-mounted biscuit box to Dr Allan. The Doctor, in his brief reply, said he was sure none of his hearers would expect him to say that this was the happiest moment of this life. He had more that once protested against the idea that such a recognition of his services was at all necessary. The work that the class had done was to him sufficient recompense. He had done his best, he continued, to impart the knowledge of ambulance work to the members and he was pleased his instruction was helpful in some measure. There could be no doubt that the success of the class depended more on the members themselves than on the medical tutor. He though the success they had attained was due to their own efforts. Dr Milroy had on more than one occasion assured him that the class in connection with the South-Western station at Ardrossan was the best he had ever examined. He, Dr Allan, in conclusion, quite agreed with all that had been said that evening in reference to the team. Not the least enjoyable part of the entertainment was the programme of songs which was gone through. Miss Murchie sustained the reputation she has hitherto held as a vocalist. With a clear voice and an unassuming manner, she possesses the gift of singing in a way which never fails to bring forth unstinted applause and innumerable requests for an encore. Miss Baird was enthusiastically cheered for her rendering of the Old Countree and other songs while Miss Frew contributed to the musical part of the programme in an enjoyable manner. Messrs Blane and Gillespie are undoubtedly singers of high standing if their performance be accepted as a criterion. Mr McMurray, in proposing a vote of thanks to the artists, said there had been a considerable amount of musical talent lying dormant in Ardrossan and Saltcoats, apparently waiting until the Ambulance team brought it forward. Other votes of thanks were cordially passed and a most successful gathering was brought to a close by the singing of that universal terminator of all social functions, Auld Lang Syne. A dance was held later in the evening.
Footnote: Dr Macdonald has asked us to correct the expression attributed to him in the report referred to by Captain Murchie. The words used by his were - He had no hesitation in saying that the Shipyard Ambulance was one of the best in the district. The italicised words make all the difference to the doctor's meaning.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902
'none of his hearers would expect him to say that this was the happiest moment of this life' is a reference to the recent death of Dr Allan's wife.

OLD WOMAN DISAPPEARS FROM ARDROSSAN
On Wednesday week (26 February 1902), an old woman of the age of seventy left her home in Ardrossan and mysteriously disappeared. On becoming aware of her absence, her friends communicated with the police but as yet, no trace has been found of her whereabouts. For some time, she was resident in Cheshire.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

GOOD TEMPLARS' DRAMATIC ENTERTAINMENT
The weekly entertainment in connection with the Ardrossan Lodge of Good Templars came off on Saturday evening (28 February 1902). Great interest was taken in the proceedings as was made manifest by the large audience which had assembled some time before the commencement. The first item on the programme was a comedy entitled A Kiss In The Dark during the run of which the audience were, at short intervals, entertained to demonstrations of the caculatory act. The plot hangs on a threadbare subject that has done duty as a basis for plays from time immemorial, namely two men and a woman. The acting of the piece was rather weak but the faults were fully retrieved in a the other farcical sketch Paddy And The Ghost. In this, the audience was kept convulsed with laughter from start to finish and, no doubt, many were disappointed when the end came. Numerous songs and recitations were rendered before the close of the entertainment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
On Friday last (28 February 1902), Mr Walter D Welford, FRPS, London gave a most interesting lecture to the members of the club. The subject was Pictorial And Decorative Work On Austin-Edwards Films And Warwick Plates. The lecture was racy and instructive, Mr Welford making a point of humorously illustrating the advantages and disadvantages of different ways in which amateurs worked. He warned against rule-of-thumb working, the taking of pictures without artistic and pictorial consideration of the subject. "The sharp print was not necessarily pictorial and the less sharp print might be. Do not crowd too much into a picture - make the main object dominant, all others and everything else secondary to the main object. Avoid figures, male or female and animals in landscape pictures. Do not make the negative suit a given paper but choose a paper to suit the negative." These are a few of the many points Mr Welford put forward for consideration. At the close of his paper, the Prize Austin-Edward slides were shown by limelight. The collection is a specially fine one and embraces landscapes, sea-scapes and figure studies.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 March 1902

THE ART OF ILLUSION IN ARDROSSAN

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB EXHIBITION OF PHOTOGRAPHS

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

NEW GAS MAIN
A new gas main is to be laid from the Cross to the Stanley Burn along South Crescent.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

SHIP SPRINGS LEAK
Last Sunday (9 March 1902), a coasting steamer sprang a leak in the harbour and had to be beached. A rivet had come out of her.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

COURSE OF SERMONS
A course of sermons for the present day on the Christian Evidences is announced by the Reverend Mr Adamson, Ardrossan. The opening topic is the existence of God.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

ARDROSSAN CASTLE CURLING CLUB
Last night (13 March 1902), the members of the Ardrossan Castle Curling Club made merry in the Eglinton Hotel. An excellent supper, excellent singing and speeches no less in excellence made thoroughly enjoyable a social gathering of which we hope to give a more satisfactory account next week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

SAINT JOHN'S LODGE OF FREEMASONS
The annual dance of Saint John's Lodge of Freemasons on Friday last (7 March 1902) was most successful. Seventy couples took part and the Drill Hall was tastefully decorated by Sergeant-Major Ferris and Brother Ramage. Mr Campbell was purveyor and Leckie's band furnished the necessary music.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB
This club is now making rapid progress. The committee has had several meetings at which the arrangements for the coming season have been discussed and are now nearing completion. With such capable men as Captain Shields, Captain C Murchie and Mr George Alpine as officers of the executive, there need be no fear of the result. The club is already patronised by the Honourable Thomas Cochrane, member of parliament (shown below in the early 1900s) and many of the prominent and influential gentlemen of the town and neighbourhood. It is hoped that the public will do their utmost to encourage such a healthy, intelligent, instructive and moral recreation. The committee hope to be still further assisted by gentlemen who will have the opportunity within a few days of becoming honorary members and also ordinary members of whom there is a goodly number. Great interest has already been aroused as is shown by the number of cups, medals and prizes presented to the club. There is at present on the stocks quite a fleet of yachts being built by members, the first of which, a five-rater, is now on exhibition in the window of Mrs Breckenridge, Glasgow Street. It is intended to hold a public meeting shortly at which it is hoped as many as possible of those interested will be present. Any desirous of becoming members of the Ardrossan Model Youth Club should communicate with the secretary, Mr A McLean, 29 Harbour Street, Ardrossan.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

ARDROSSAN UNITED FREE PRESBYTERY - CALL AT LAMLASH
A meeting of the United Free Presbytery of Ardrossan was held in the church at Lamlash on Monday last (10 March 1902) for the purpose of moderating in a call to Mr R S McLachlan, preacher and at present assistant to Dr Bannerman, Perth. Mr Lamont, Saltcoats, who had been appointed to preach and preside, made allusion during the course of the opening services to the sudden death that had taken place the previous evening of the Clerk of Presbytery, the Reverend William MacKenzie of West Kilbride. The audience, to most of whom apparently the event was unknown, seemed deeply moved by the melancholy announcement.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

LINES RESPECTFULLY INSCRIBED TO SAINT BRIDE'S CONGREGATION, WEST KILBRIDE
     Let not despair your bosom rend nor suffer grief to cloud the brow
     Though from your midst Death's icy hand has rudely torn your pastor now
     Though much you feel his absence yet you would not have him always stay
     Where sin doth every step beset and sorrow dims life's brightest day
          It is the Master's will, ah! this falls on the ear like music sweet
          It is the Master's will, let us submit with resignation meet
          Love saw it fit - let that suffice - to call him from his labours here
          Far, far away beyond the skies to fill a nobler, higher sphere
     His voice, that late with rapture thrilled and taught you in fair virtue's ways
     Think not that voice is hushed and stilled, it sings his great Redeemer's praise
     His eye that sweetly kindly, beamed with pride on you, his little flock
     Think not that gentle eye is dimmed though now you see and feel it not
          Oh no, from his bright home above with those who have the goal attained
          Who sing of God's redeeming love that hath for them the victory gained
          A cloud of unseen witnesses that eye still beams as lovingly
          And as you run the Christian race looks on with tenderest sympathy
     Let this sweet thought your minds possess and stimulate and cheer you on
     With greater zeal and eagerness to press until the prize be won
     He watches with solicitude, he waits a welcome to extend
     To all the pure, the blest, the good that presseth onward to the end
          Thomas Allardyce, Ardrossan
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

SALTCOATS MERCHANTS TO PLAY ARDROSSAN MERCHANTS
One who signs himself A Baker, send us the following. As the merchants are to have a holiday on Wednesday, 19 March, I think a football match might be arranged from that date between Saltcoats and Ardrossan merchants. Any of the local clubs would give them the use of their pitch for the day with use of nickers and jerseys and a collection could be taken and handed over to the club. The following team could be got to line up for Saltcoats - 'Joey' Miller; J Jackson and R Aitken; J Andrews, J Leitch and J Craig; Maule, Howie, J Wilson, H Crawford and Chips. Our friend adds The above team is a light one and I am sure they will not disgrace themselves. With such a sprinter as Jim Wilson to lead them on, the forwards should make a good show. I trust this will waken up the merchants in Ardrossan and Saltcoats to provide an afternoon's amusement on the date mentioned above.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 March 1902

ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT LODGE OF GOOD TEMPLARS
This night (21 March 1902), the lecture on behalf of the Camera Club will be delivered in Ardrossan Town Hall. The subject is The Art Of Illusion with over one hundred lantern views.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

LIBERAL ASSOCIATION MEETING IN ARDROSSAN
The delegates to North Ayrshire Central Liberation Association hold their half-yearly meeting in Ardrossan tomorrow (22 March 1920).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT LODGE OF GOOD TEMPLARS
The usual Saturday evening entertainment in connection with the Ardrossan Lodge consisted last week (on 15 March 1902) of songs and recitations, interspersed with two or three cornet solos and a short lecture on the evils of strong drink, delivered no doubt for the special edification of an inebriated individual who had inadvertently found his way into the Temperance Hall. The vocal part of the entertainment was excellent and cornet solos such as were rendered by Mr Fowler would undoubtedly prove a great attraction if the committee could only see their way to provide such fare each Saturday.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT LODGE OF GOOD TEMPLARS

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

WEST KILBRIDE MINISTER REMEMBERED IN ARDROSSAN
Reference of an appropriate nature to the death of the reverend Mr Mackenzie, West Kilbride was made last Sunday (16 March 1902) by the minister of Saint John's, Ardrossan and at the close of the service, the Dead March in Saul was played on the organ.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 19022

PAVEMENT WANTED FOR WINTON STREET
Winton Street folks would be immensely pleased if Ardrossan Town Council would lay, or cause to be laid, a concrete pavement on both sides of this street between Glasgow Street and Winton Lane and also a causeway across the Lane. This, says a correspondent, should have been done long ago considering the number of people who live in Winton Street (shown below in 2002) and also the fact that there is a school there.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN SHOPKEEPERS 3 - SALTCOATS SHOPKEEPERS 1
Teams representing Ardrossan and Saltcoats shopkeepers played a football match at Winton Park on Wednesday (19 March 1902), honours resting in favour of the former by three goals to one.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

SEAMAN JAILED FOR THEFT
A seaman was on Tuesday (19 March 1902) charged with having stolen a watch and chain belonging to the skipper of the Excelsior. Information of the theft was lodged at the Police Office (shown below in 2003) on Monday afternoon (18 March 1902) and in less than an hour after the theft, the accused was in custody. Bailie Goodwin sent him to prison for fourteen days.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
The annual meeting of this club was held on Monday night (17 March 1902). The secretary's report showed an improving state of matters, several new ordinary and honorary members having joined. Office-bearers for next year were then appointed - president, Mr Thomas Guthrie; vice-presidents, Messrs William Young junior and William Fotheringham; secretary, Mr J M Comrie; treasurer, Mr Thomas Harvey; committee Messrs George Kinnear, J Gibson, J Turner, D Gemmell, Robert Young and Dr McClymont. The show of club work opens on Wednesday first (26 March 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN HEARSE SOCIETY
The annual meeting of the Ardrossan Hearse Society was held in the treasurer's office on 14 March, Mr John Harvey in the chair. The treasurer's statement for the year was read showing a balance on hand after meeting all liabilities of £41 13s 7d. It was reported that the hearse had recently been overhauled and repainted at considerable expense and that it was now in thorough good order. The office-bearers and committee were reappointed for another year, Mr Hugh B Gilfillan;s name being added to the committee. A vote of thanks was passed to Mr John Smith for his services as auditor.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902

ARDROSSAN CURLING CLUB SUPPER
In the Eglinton Hotel (shown below in the early 1960s) last Thursday evening (13 March 1902), there were sounds of merriment. The Curling Club were there - and they supped. Computed roughly, half a hundred gentlemen surrounded the tables in that upstairs room and they were half a hundred gentlemen in great humour, enthusiastic in enjoyment. Mr Fleming had purveyed for them a supper abundant and delectable and they brought to it an appreciative appetite. Mr Alexander Wood presided and the croupiers were Bailie Hogarth and ex-Bailie Smith. The tables cleared, the chairman introduced the toast list by asking the company to drink the health of the King and Queen. In the answer to that call, there was a sufficiency of loyal fervour and the roof rang as the National Anthem was vigorously voiced.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 March 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARRAN PLACE SALE OF FURNITURE



            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902
The photos of Arran Place above were taken in the early 1900s and 2006.

WANTED MAN ARRESTED IN ARDROSSAN
On Saturday night (22 March 1902). a labourer, who has been wanted by the police for about sixteen months, was arrested in Ardrossan by a constable who met him on the street and promptly took him into custody. The labourer was convicted in his absence at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court sixteen months ago for contravening the Poaching Prevention Act at West Kilbride and was sentenced to twenty days imprisonment. He was taken to Ayr jail.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB EXHIBITION
The Camera Club exhibition is now going strong. Let it be visited.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

NO MORE REGATTA IN ARDROSSAN
There shall be no more regatta in Ardrossan. Public apathy has killed it.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

TALKING CLUB GOES SILENT
The Talking Club will put a stop to its garrulity for the season in the Eglinton Hotel tonight (28 March 1902). There will be a supper to assist in the silencing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB CONTINUES
Despite the general exasperating indifference to its welfare, the Model Yacht Club seems likely to thrive for a season. We understand that racing fixtures are even now arranged.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB TO VISIT DENNISTOUN CLUB
Some members of the local Model Yacht Club have been invited by the Dennistoun Club to look them up at their place and they mean to go on Saturday (29 March 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ARDROSSAN HARBOUR VERY QUIET
The harbour has been phenomenally quiet of late. These are the days, indeed, when the tugboat goes a-wandering in search of the ships that pass in the night and comes back empty-handed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ENTERTAINED TO DINNER
The Reverend Dr James C Russell, Moderator-Elect of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland and brother to Mr A Russell of Castle Craigs, Ardrossan has been entertained to dinner by the Presbytery of Kintyre.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ARDROSSAN BANKER MOVES TO LONDON
Mr Paterson, accountant in the Union Bank, Ardrossan has received an appointment in the London office. During his stay in Ardrossan, Mr Paterson made a number of friends who, while regretting his departure, rejoice with him in his promotion.
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

PRINCES STREET CROSSING NEEDS REPAIR
There is yet no improvement in the crossing between the Union Bank and the Station Buildings in Princes Street (shown below in 1974). As the Council have agreed to the crossing, it may be presumed that the question of repairing it is being diligently deliberated.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

A MOST GENEROUS GIFT TO SAINT ANDREW'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH, ARDROSSAN
Last week, Mr Lewis Porter, Justice of the Peace, of Elsing House, Ardrossan handed to the Reverend R Mordue, rector of the church, the sum of £400 to build the tower of the church. On Tuesday last (25 March 1902), this very generous offer was gratefully accepted by the Vestry, Lord Eglinton being in the chair. At the same meeting, Mr Lewis Porter junior, architect, Ardrossan was appointed to draw up plans and specifications and to see the work carried out. We have no doubt but this promising young architect will erect a tower of strength and beauty which will enhance greatly the appearance of this already beautiful church (shown below in 2002).

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

ARDROSSAN, SALTCOATS AND STEVENSTON CHORAL SOCIETY - LAST CONCERT OF THE SEASON
The Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Choral Society gave their second and last concert for the season in Saltcoats Town Hall on Tuesday evening (25 March 1902). They rendered Mendelssohn's Elijah and to offer more than bald statement, to garnish it with criticism, to add to it, indeed so much as conventional particularities, seems almost sacrilege. It is, in truth, a cruel thing that one who has brought an understanding ear and a not too sophisticated heart to a concert such as Tuesday's should have to write his impressions of it - for all the world as though it were a football match - and to set them forth in the dispassion of cold print. To revel in good music is to abhor the very notion of discussing it. To criticise it is like rising from one's knees to dispute the efficiency of prayer yet the voice of custom is stronger than the still, small voice of conscience and a review of the Choral concert must here an now be penned.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB
The Ardrossan and District Camera Club of late so passé, so decrepit, is beginning now to signs of rejuvenescence. To give a fillip to the welcome change, Mr George Guthrie delivered a lecture on The Art Of Illustration under the auspices of the club in the Town Hall, Ardrossan last Friday night (21 March 1902). Mr Thomas Guthrie, solicitor, occupied the chair and introduced the lecturer in a brief and gracile speech. Thereafter followed, for eye and ear, a simultaneous entertainment of no inconsiderable order. The lecture had been carefully prepared and, if one gave thought to the immensity of the subject, was sufficiently comprehensive and the limelight illustrations were enjoyable. They, assuredly, were chosen well and in a general way were representative of the growth of illustrative art. This week, the club have opened to the public an exhibition of photographs or more correctly, of photographic pictures, by some seven of the members. It is an interesting show and obscurely situated though the club is, it is worth one's while to drop in of an evening and to scrutinise the some-and-seventy exhibits. Some of the photographs are prize-winners and they are indeed as altogether excellent as were many of the exhibits in the great Glasgow exhibition. Certainly, if this little show is in any way representative of the work being done by the Camera Club - and presumably it is - the exhibitors are deserving of popular encouragement. We recommend the exhibition to all who have any interest in photography. These are the names of the gentlemen whose work is on the walls - Messrs John Comrie, John C Guthrie, Fotheringham, Thomas Guthrie, Ritchie, Kinnear and Craig but surely a club with a membership of over thirty should be able to boast of more than seven working members. The Camera Club is somewhat peculiar in this respect.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

CUSTOMS CHANGES AT ARDROSSAN
At short notice - no more than a week - Mr William Stevenson, Collector of Customs here, has been ordered to take up duty at Inverness. This is, for Mr Stevenson, a stroke of luck for the change is promotional and it is an advance of which many men, older in the service if less valuable to it, may well be envious. In his new position, Mr Stevenson will have infinitely greater scope for his energies and to him that increase of scope will be wholly and heartily congenial. The Customs District of Inverness, which includes the island of Lewis, is of course much larger and much more important than at Ardrossan and it is a district wherein an energetic man, if he be astute and as keenly alive to the possibilities of his position as is Mr Stevenson, can hardly fail to bring himself into enviable prominence. The Inverness District indeed is facile princeps amongst all the Customs coast sections of Scotland and, in these circumstances, nothing but congratulation is offerable to Mr Stevenson. It is now close upon five years since first he came to Ardrossan, to be precise on 5 June 1897. At that time, Ardrossan was under Greenock and Mr Stevenson came here as first-class Collector. In January 1899, the dignity of Ardrossan as a port was officially enhanced and Mr Stevenson's position as Collector was accordingly improved. On the first day in April 1899, the port was freed from the supervision of Greenock and again the position and responsibility of Mr Stevenson gained greatly in importance. Now his period of service in Ardrossan comes to and end on Monday 31 March and on the next day or the next again, he enters on his duties in the north. Of Ardrossan and of the conditions under which he has worked these eight-and-forty months, Mr Stevenson has no words that are not kind and complimentary. His relation with other officials at the Harbour have ever been of the most cordial sort and he speaks with special appreciation of the Harbour manager and of Captain Shields and so it goes without saying that while we are glad to hear of his merited advancement in the service, there be many who will regret he and they must part. For ourselves, we need hardly say that our most cordial good wishes are with Mr Stevenson. His successor is Mr Edgar Marrable, at present superintendent at Brixham, South Devon. Mr Marrable has had experience at Lowestoft, Glasgow and Newhaven at which port he served under Mr Bates a former collector at Ardrossan and for a short time was in the secretary's office in London. Before going to Brixham, Mr Marrable was superintendent at Ramsay, Isle of Man. Ardrossan will be Mr Marrable's first collectorship and if the mantle of some one of his predecessors such as Mr Henderson, Mr Muir or Mr Bates should fall on him, we will have no reason to regret the appointment. It is one of the proud boasts of Ardrossan that at least three of our collectors are holding important offices in the civil service while others are slowly but surely climbing the ladder of preferment in their wake. We look to Mr Marrable to give further emphasis to the reputation of the port and we can assure him of a hearty welcome when he takes up his residence among us.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

CLUTHA VILLA FOR SALE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 March 1902

CLUTHA VILLA SOLD
Clutha Villa, Montgomerie Street, Ardrossan, the property of Mr Robert Hogarth has bee purchased proivately by Mr G O Baird, draper.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

MISS GULLAN'S PUPILS' RECITAL
This event, than which there is none more popular in the district, comes off on Friday of next week (11 April 1902). It is superfluous to say a single words in its praise. The difficulty hitherto has not been so much in prevailing upon the people to go as to find accommodation for everyone who desires to be present and the attractiveness of this year's programme will prove as magnetic as ever. There are promised scenes from Little Women, Cross Questions and Crooked Answers, Alice In Wonderland, The Cricket On The Hearth, Cinderella and Mrs Willis's Will. Miss Gullan had produced excellent results since establishing classes in this district and we look forwards to this year's recital with anticipations of a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

COUNCILLOR PORTER BOUND FOR QUEENSLAND
Councillor Lewis Porter, Ardrossan, accompanied by Mrs Porter, leaves today (4 April 1902) for Marseilles where he will join the P & O steamer for Queensland. The trip is taken in the combined interests of pleasure and business. As is generally known, Mr Porter is largely interested in the gold mines of Queensland. He is chairman of three companies - the West of Scotland, the Scottish Gympie Freehold and the Scottish Gympie Consols and is a director in the famous Scottish Gympie and the recently-formed Marodian. One of Mr Porter's objects in going abroad at this time is to make himself thoroughly acquainted with the position of affairs, to acquire a knowledge of his companies' concerns at first hand so as not to be wholly dependent upon the reports from resident engineers. He reckons he will spend at least two months in Queensland and on the way home, hopes to give himself the pleasure of visiting Hong Kong, Canton, Shanghai, Yokohama, San Francisco and the principal cities in America. Councillor Porter expects to take up his municipal duties in October and meanwhile, the best wishes of his constituents go with him in his journey round the world.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB
The Camera Club will have a limelight display of upwards of two hundred slides in their premises, Princes Street, Ardrossan on Monday (7 April 1902) at eight o'clock. There is a probability of an enlarging lantern being purchased by the Camera Club. Intending members please note.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

SANDY SOUTH CRESCENT
When the wind is in the west, the passer-by cannot distinguish the roadway from the green at the south end of South Crescent. Everywhere is sand.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

PRESENTATION OF FORMER COLLECTOR OF CUSTOMS
The superlative modesty of Mr Stevenson, lately Collector of Customs in Ardrossan, prevented anything in the nature of a public presentation to him on the occasion of his departure. The Customs staff, however, gave him a very handsome silver cigarette case and the best of their good wishes.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

ARDROSSAN JUVENILE RECHABITES
A social meeting of the Montfod Castle Tent of Juvenile Rechabites was held in the Templars' Hall on Wednesday evening (1 April 1902), Brother John Blair, superintendent, presiding. There was a large turnout of members and a number of adults manifested their interest in the youngsters by attending the meeting. Brother Davies, Kilbirnie, a member of the District Executive was present and delivered an interesting address. Not the least important of the proceedings was the presentation of a beautiful silver watch, the gift of Brother John Green, the assistant Juvenile Superintendent of the Tent to Sister Janet Fingland as a recognition of her having been the means of introducing most new members during the year. It is worthy of note that Sister Fingland also gained the second prize given by the District for the same object. The prize was a handsome gold badge and Brother Davies, in fitting terms, handed over both articles to the successful member. Brother Robert Baillie junior returned thanks on behalf of Sister Fingland. Afterwards, a series of limelight views were thrown on the screen, the pictures being illustrative of the story, The Way To Heaven. Brothers R Baillie and P Kerr, assisted by Mr J P Brown, manipulated the lantern. The social was a most enjoyable one and the usual votes of thanks were accorded at the close.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB ANNUAL MEETING
The annual meeting of the members of Ardrossan Bowling Club (shown below in 2010) was held on Tuesday evening (1 April 1902) in the Eglinton Hotel. Mr William Martin, president, presided over a good turnout of members. In the course of a few remarks, the chairman mentioned that the Club's lease of the green had now almost expired and that arrangements for renewal were in progress and would shortly be completed. In the absence of Mr Robert Paterson, secretary, who has left the town to fill and important position in London, Mr Thomas Guthrie read the annual report which showed that the Club had had a very successful year in many respects. The financial report was also submitted. The income for the year was £128 2s 5d and the disbursements £112 11 4d which shows a credit balance of £15 11s 1d to be carried forward. The thanks of the Club were accorded to Messrs Paterson and E Wallace, treasurer, for the excellent reports given in and also for their services during the year. The appointment of office-bearers was then proceeded with. The Earl of Eglinton was again appointed patron. Mr Martin, retiring president, moved that Captain Torrance be elected president for the year which met with the unanimous approval of the members. Mr Thomas Wallace's appointment to the position of vice-president was cordially received. Both gentlemen expressed their thanks to the members for the honour conferred on them with the assurance that they would do all in their power to further the interests of the Club during the coming year. Mr Hugh Gillespie was appointed secretary and Mr E Wallace, treasurer. The committee are Messrs John Barr, William Martin, Thomas Guthrie, F H Gillies, John Comrie, William Davidson, D B Haining, William Tannock and James Allison. The auditors are Messrs Thomas Harvey and George Kinnear. The skips were chosen as follows - Captain Torrance, Dr Macdonald and Messrs John Allison, William Gilroy, E G Stewart, William Tannock, W Anderson, J M Comrie, D Gillies, John Barclay, William Brown, Charles Campbell and John Lambert. Several recommendations from the members to the committee were discussed at length. A vote of thanks to the chairman closed the meeting.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 April 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ASSISTANT CEMETERY KEEPER WANTED

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

GAS LIGHTING AT ARDROSSAN STATIONS
Incandescent gas lighting is being introduced at the principal stations throughout the Glasgow and South-Western Railway system. At Ardrossan, it has served only to enhance the reputation of the station as a loafing resort.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

ARDROSSAN-SALTCOATS INTER-VEHICULAR SERVICE
The Ardrossan-Saltcoats inter-vehicular service has again commenced. Shopkeepers in the neighbourhood of the jebus' stance are complaining of the language and the general disturbance made by some of the drivers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

MUSICAL SUCCESS FOR ARDROSSAN TEACHER
In the recent school examinations held in Glasgow in connection with the Associated Board of the Royal Academy and Royal College of Music, London, Miss Annie Aitken, Dalry and Miss Margery Stewart, Ardrossan, pupils of Miss Henderson, 6 Crescent, Ardrossan, succeeded in obtaining certificates in pianoforte playing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

IBROX DISASTER SHILLING FUNDS
We shall be pleased to receive, acknowledge and forward to the Funds instituted by our Glasgow contemporaries, The Evening News and The Evening Times, any donations our readers may desire to give towards the relief of the sufferers through the disaster of Saturday last (5 April 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902
The Ibrox Disaster happened on 5 April 1902 at Ibrox Park, now Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. Following the collapse of a stand, twenty-five supporters at a Scotland v England match died and 517 were injured.

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB
A love of things nautical is one of the inherent characteristics of the Briton. From the days of his youth, he shows a fondness for maritime vessels which increases as a rule with the advent of years. His interest is, to a great extent, centred in yachts and if circumstances do not allow of his possessing a real full-sized vessel, he will at least endeavour to possess one in miniature. To such an extent of popularity has the fascinating sport of yacht racing reached that almost every town and village which can boast of a pond or is situated near the seaside has one or more model yacht clubs. Ardrossan is not one of the few exceptions and we feel sure from the public interest taken in the meeting held on Friday evening (4 April 1902) in connection with the club, that it will achieve still greater success and popularity. Round the interior of the Templars' Hall where the meeting was held were displayed a variety of yachts from the ancient steamship-shaped hull of the America to the modern and up-to-date keel of Shamrock II. Great interest was taken in all the models. Captain Shields, in the course of a short address, said they would like to see a greater interest taken in this healthy and invigorating sport. Yacht building, he said, tended to develop and cultivate the ideas and imaginative talents that might be dormant in many young men.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

MUSICAL SUCCESS FOR ARDROSSAN TEACHER
In the recent school examinations held in Glasgow in connection with the Associated Board of the Royal Academy and Royal College of Music, London, Miss Annie Aitken, Dalry and Miss Margery Stewart, Ardrossan, pupils of Miss Henderson, 6 Crescent, Ardrossan, succeeded in obtaining certificates in pianoforte playing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 April 1902

BIG IMPORTS AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
Import business has been big this week at Ardrossan Harbour.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB SUBSCRIPTION
Ardrossan Bowling Club annual subscription has this year been fixed at sixteen shillings.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

ARDROSSAN SOUTH BEACH TENNIS CLUB
Ardrossan South Beach Tennis Club opened the season's play on Saturday (12 April 1902). There is a large membership and the financial position, as well as the playing powers of the club, is strong.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

THIRTY DAYS OVER FOOTBALL ARGUEMENT
Princes Street presented an animated appearance on Wednesday evening (16 April 1902). Crowds from all quarters flocked thither to witness a display of fisticuffs by two young men who had quarrelled over the respective merits of their favourite footballers. The struggle was fast and furious but happily, the ubiquitous policeman appeared on the scene with the result that both combatants ere somewhat ceremoniously march off to 'durance vile'. Both were sentenced to thirty days imprisonment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

MR E J HILL LEAVES ARDROSSAN
Many in Ardrossan and district will learn with regret of the early removal from the town of Mr E J Hill of the Bank of Scotland (shown below as the Community Education Office in Princes Street in 2003) For twelve years, Mr Hill has been resident among us and in that time has won the regard and appreciation of a large circle of friends. Both Mr and Mrs Hill have largely interested themselves in the religious life of the community. The Young Women's and Men's Christian Associations owe their present facilities for active Christian work to their helpful and practical cooperation and every movement that aimed at improving the moral and social condition of the people had their willing support. In other directions, Mr Hill will be missed. For several years, he has been the mainstay of the Savings Bank, a useful institution which is likely to collapse unless a few local gentlemen, like-minded with Mr Hill, see their way to take an interest in its management. He is also a member of the School Board and by his colleagues is highly esteemed for the manner in which he discharges his share of the onerous duties. In a quiet and unostentatious way, Mr Hill has made his presence felt for good in the town and in many departments, his place will not be easily filled. We understand that Mr Hill is retiring from the service of the Bank and that he intends settling at Cramond Bridge, Midlothian.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

ARDROSSAN HOUSEBREAKERS
At a pleading diet of Ayr Sheriff Court on Tuesday (15 April 1902), two men were charged with having broken into a house in the North Crescent, Ardrossan on 3 April. The accused, in forcing an entrance into the house, broke glass to the value of about £3 and thereafter appropriated a considerable amount of money. The sheriff sentenced both to three months imprisonment with hard labour. It may be mentioned that the local police cleverly executed the capture and all the stolen property was recovered.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

ARDROSSAN BURGH COURT
A commission agent, belonging to Stevenston, was charged Ardrossan Burgh Court on Monday (12 April 1902) with having committed an assault. From the evidence given, it appeared that the accused sold a clock on the instalment system to the complainer, a woman residing in Ardrossan. On 9 April, he called for part of the payment and on being refused it, he attempted to take possession of the clock, at the same time assaulting the complainer. The charge was found proven and a fine of ten shillings was imposed, the alternative being seven days imprisonment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 April 1902

SHAKESPEARIAN RECITAL

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

ARDROSSAN AND THE CORONATION - SPECIAL MEETING OF ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL
To discuss, inter alia, the steps to be taken locally for the meet celebration of the coronation, the Town council met in Kilmahew (shown below as the former Burgh Chambers in 1978) on Tuesday evening (22 April 1902). Provost Young presided. Bailie Hogarth and Messrs Harvey, Guthrie, Crawford and Smith were also present. By way of commencement, Provost Young asked whether the matter had in any way taken shape. He supposed that amongst other things, they would arrange to have church service. Bailie Hogarth did not think church services would do any good. His idea was that any money which the Council might be disposed to spend should be expended for the public good. Mr Smith asked whether it would not be advisable to form a committee from the Town council, the Parish council and the School Board. The Town Council might agree to the spending of £15 to £20 from the Common Good Fund.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

COMMON GOOD FUND CONTRIBUTES TO CORONATION FESTIVITIES
Ardrossan's Common Good Fund is to be drawn upon to the extent of £25 in honour of the Coronation festivities. A generous public are expected to supplement this sum besides decorating their dwellings by day and illuminating them by night.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

DANCING CLASS CLOSES WITH A BALL
Mr Fotheringham brings his dancing class to a close by a ball in the Assembly Hall (shown below as The Rovers Club in 1974) tonight (25 April 1902). It is, as a rule, a pretty sight.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

ARDROSSAN SAND LIKE SALTCOATS
The drifts of sand on Ardrossan's South Crescent pavement this week were reminiscent of Montgomerie Crescent, Saltcoats in the pre-esplanade days.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

BOWLING SEASON STARTS
The bowling season will commence on the Ardrossan Green at 3.45 pm on Saturday (26 April 1902) and on the Saltcoats Green at 3.30 in the same afternoon.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

ARDROSSAN SWIMMERS
A number of Ardrossan boys were seen to be disporting themselves in the briny the other day. This assuredly has more significance than any amount of Meteorological Office reports.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

EDUCATION?
First small boy on the street to passing chum - "Wurs yins gaus tae play a fitba' match th' day?". Second small boy - "Whut yins?". First boy again - "Yon yins. Same's we lickit afore.". Not very creditable specimens of the Education Code!
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB
Amateur photographers who are wise and yet are not members of the Camera Club should note the fact that the Camera Club are possessing themselves of enlarging apparatus. New members are invited to participate in the advantages of the acquisition.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

MISS PEGGY BENNETT
In our notice of Miss Gullan's recital last week, the name of Miss Peggy Bennett was inadvertently omitted in the list of entertainers. Miss Bennett's elocutionary gifts are known to an Ardrossan audience and on the evening of the recital, she more than sustained her reputation.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE SOCIETY OPENS PREMISES IN BARR STREET
The Ardrossan Cooperative Society has just opened handsome premises in Barr Street (shown below in the mid 1910s) for the better display of its stock of house furnishings. Plans have been passed by the Dean of Guild Court for the extension of the Society's bakery and fleshing department at the rear of the central premises in Glasgow Street.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

MR G WALLACE JOHNSTON
Mr G Wallace Johnston, a young gentleman locally connected, is with Mr F R Benson's company this week at Stratford-on-Avon. It will be news to many that Mr Benson made his first public appearance in a theatrical performance upon the platform of the Assembly Hall, Ardrossan some twenty-one years ago.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

DESTRUCTIVE FIRE IN ARDROSSAN - OILSKIN FACTORY GUTTED

The forenoon of Wednesday (23 April 1902) was a forenoon of excitement. Rumour went into the obscure parts of the town with a tale of fire at the Oilskin Factory and soon a multitude had gathered in the vicinity of the burning building. At first, the large edifice had but the appearance of a houseful of smoke, a kind of smoke-prison from whose chinks there issued an overflow of fumes. Soon, however, the issuing smoke increased in volume. It sweated through the slates, it oozed out through the bricks and stone of the masonry yet for a while, no flame was visible. From the inside came the sound of cracking fire and fierce, increasing heat then gradually, despite the energy of the fire brigade who ceased not to ply their ineffectual hose, the internal holocaust broke through. For a moment, nothing but huge clouds of black, billowing smoke came forth but soon the black clouds took a lurid tinge and then, suddenly, a great portion of the roof fell in and a glory of red flames leapt up emancipated. From that moment, it was seen that the whole interior was ablaze. Everything but the four stone walls was burning and all but they were quite past hope of saving. Within an hour, the place was gutted. There is no knowing how the fire originated. It was first discovered on one of the upper flats by a sailmaker who noticed smoke ascending through a ventilator connected with the drying room. He gave the alarm at once but so quickly spread the conflagration, so highly inflammable was everything within the factory that not the speediest nor the best equipped of fire brigades would have availed anything at all. As it was, the local fire brigade, with their puny hose and ridiculous water pressure, did their level best. They helped to save, at least, the abutting building on the west wall of the factory. All day, the interior of the factory continued to burn and in the night time, with the red glare showing through the blank window spaces and the other gaps caused by the collapse of masonry, the whole building brought to mind the fearful appearance of Alloway Kirk, what time Tam O'Shanter saw the witches dance. The building was the property of the Ardrossan Harbour Company but had been tenanted for four years by Mr Angus McLean and the brothers Savage, partners of the Ardrossan Oilskin Company and used for the manufacture of oilskin and sailcloth. The company had a large number of orders on hand and this fact, apart from the regrettable throwing idle of the work-girls, makes the occurrence of the fire peculiarly unfortunate. It will be no easy matter to find at once suitable premises for the recommencement of business and the company will doubtless experience a loss in their ability to fulfil contracts. Furthermore, it is doubtful whether the company's insurance policies will cover the loss of stock and time. The only accident which occurred happened to a girl named Mary Ramsay. It appears that after the fire broke out she made her way into one of the rooms to secure some articles of clothing which she had deposited there and on her return, was severely burnt about the face and arms.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 April 1902

FOUR MEN BURNED TRYING TO RESCUE GIRL
Four men sustained severe burns at the factory fire last week under somewhat heroic circumstances. It appears that the quartet, who are employees of the Harbour Company, entered the burning building for the purpose of rescuing a girl believed to be inside. After a short search, however, it was discovered she had made her exit sometime previously, apparently scatheless.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

INCREASING TRADE AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
Exports as well as imports are increasing rapidly at Ardrossan Harbour (shown below in the early 1900s). It is to be hoped that the inevitable falling-off will not be soon.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

RARE COPPER ORE CARGO AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
A cargo of copper ore, a comparatively rare import, has come this week to Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

ARDROSSAN BURGH WATER CART STARTS FOR SEASON
The Burgh water cart commenced work for the season last Saturday (26 April 1902) to the inexpressible delight of the bare-footed small boy.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

STEAMER TO BE LAUNCHED FROM ARDROSSAN
The Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company will launch another coasting steamer in the course of a few weeks. Finished, the boat will go to France.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB PROGRAMME POSTPONED
The opening cruise of the Ardrossan Model Yachts will not take place tomorrow (26 April 1902) as arranged. Notice will be given of the fixture when the racing programme has been completed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

ARDROSSAN AMBULANCE TEAM TAKE THIRD PLACE
At the Cooperative Ambulance Competition held in Glasgow on Saturday (26 April 1902), the Ardrossan team comprising A Munro, P McCallum, R Andrews, John Frame and W Brown, captain secured third place with 253 points.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

IS 12.30 PM IN THE AFTERNOON?
A considerable number of Ardrossan people were chagrined to find on Wednesday (30 April 1902) that 12.30 pm is in the afternoon. The railway companies had advertised cheap fares to Glasgow by the forenoon trains and those tardy ones who elected to travel by the 12.30 were astounded and grieved when the full fare was asked.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

HACKNEY CARRIAGE DRIVERS APPEAL
At the Burgh Court on Monday (28 April 1902), the hackney-carriage drivers of Ardrossan and Saltcoats appealed to the magistrates to rescind the decision come to some time ago disallowing vehicles to ply for hire in any part of the town excepting Hill Street (shown below in 2005). After due consideration, the presiding magistrates decided to uphold the bye-laws.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

DRUNK ARRESTED
An obstreperous drunk was at a late hour on Wednesday night (30 April 1902) in Princes Street (shown below in the mid 1910s) giving expression to his thoughts in language somewhat unparliamentary and as he showed a decided disinclination to desist even at the bidding of a policeman, he was ignominiously marched, or rather carried, to a place of incarceration. The sequel to his bout was an offer of thirty-four day in jail or a fine of £3.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

FAST SAIL BY ARDROSSAN CAPTAIN
The Lady Wentworth, a four-masted steel ship commanded by Captain Murchie of Ardrossan, arrived at Queenstown on Wednesday last (30 April 1902) from San Francisco, having covered the distance in the remarkable short period of 103 days. This is said to the second fastest passage of the season and Captain Murchie, who is known to be a hard-headed, fearless Scotsman is to be congratulated on his seamanship.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

ARDROSSAN AND THE CORONATION
The public meeting which was advertised to take place in the Town Hall last night (1 May 1902) was not, by any stretch of the omagination, to be called a success. Altogether, some thirty people, including members of the Town Council, assembled in the Hall. At the outset, Provost Young regretted that the audience was so small. He could do no more than repeat the resolution of the Council to give the sum of £25 from the Common Good. He supposed he might intimate that subscription sheets would be left in shops and in the banks and the people would do something towards the raising of a fund. A large audience would, however, have betokened some sort of public interest in the matter. Suggestions were then invited but these came not generously and none of them were in any sense original. The general feeling appeared to be that a demonstration would take place on the Castle Hill and that the poor of the Burgh be 'treated'. The probable difficulty of securing a band exercised some minds and to set these minds at rest, Mr J R Smith opined that fiddles and a dance would be enjoyable enough. Ultimately, on the suggestion of Provost Young, it was agreed to make the Town Council an acting committee with power to add to their numbers. We understand the subscription sheets will be left at banks and shops and lie open for contributions till Friday 9 May.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

SHAKESPEARIAN RECITAL
There is matter for cynical reflection in the fact that a really large number of people assembled in the Town Hall on Tuesday (29 April 1902) to hear a Shakespearian recital. Here, however, is not the place for such reflection. It is enough gratefully to record the fact that the audience was indeed considerable. It was appropriately so - better that many should get pleasure than a few for certainly Miss Minnie M Williams' recital of As You Like It was a pleasurable, a thoroughly enjoyable entertainment. At the outset, she drew no sympathy. She spoke rapidly in a dull staccato. One felt her alien but that changed. Her tones took warmth, she became more generous of inflection and then, little by little, slowly but very certainly, the artist in her was revealed. You thawed, you melted. In the end, you honestly admired.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

LAUNCH AT ARDROSSAN
On Saturday afternoon (26 April 1902), there was launched form the yard of the Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company, the new screw steamer River Tay built to the order of the River Tay Steamship Company, Liverpool. The christening ceremony was performed by Mrs Ronald of Liverpool before a small assemblage of spectators. The vessel which is of the raised quarterdeck type and is constructed to carry 600 tons deadweight, is registered 100 A1 at Lloyds, special survey. Its dimension are as follows: between perpendiculars - 165 feet; moulded breadth - 25 feet 6 inches; moulded depth - 11 feet 3 inches. Messrs Hutson and Son Limited, Glasgow will supply the engines.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB DIAMOND JUBILEE YEAR
The diamond jubilee year of Ardrossan Bowling Club was ushered in on Saturday last (26 April 1902) under most favourable weather auspices. The opening game was the usual one of President v Vice President. Visitors were not so numerous this year as formerly owing to the fact that neighbouring clubs were having their initial game but notwithstanding, five links a side were played. The green was in capital order, thanks to the care bestowed upon it by the club's most efficient greenkeeper. With regard to the diamond jubilee, it is intended to celebrate this event at a later date.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 2 May 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN CUSTOMS OFFICER GRANTED A COMMISSION
Since coming to Ardrossan, Mr E Marrable of His Majesty's Customs, has been granted a commission as Paymaster in the Royal Naval Reserve, bearing date for seniority, 18 February 1902 by the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

LET THERE BE LIGHT
The populace of Ardrossan and Saltcoats who go out at nights have literally to walk in darkness. Do we not possess an official who has the authority to issue the injunction Let There Be Light. Even though summer be upon us, this is by no means the land of the midnight sun.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

ARDROSSAN LADIES' CLOTHING SOCIETY
Mrs John Hogarth, The Garth (shown below as Abbotsford Nursing Home in 2002) begs to acknowledge, on behalf of the Ardrossan Ladies' Clothing Society, the receipt of £2 as part proceeds of Miss Gullan's recital.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

DEATH IN A RAILWAY TRAIN
A sad fatality was reported to the Ardrossan Police on Tuesday morning (6 May 1902). While the train which arrives at Ardrossan about 6.50 was on its way from Saltcoats to South Beach Station (shown below during refurbishment in 1986), the occupants of one of the compartments were alarmed to find that one of their number, a working man, had suddenly taken ill. Before any assistance could be rendered, the man succumbed. On the arrival of the train at Princes Street Station, the Police were communicated with and through their efforts, the deceased was identified as John McGlannachie, an iron worker employed in Stevenston. It appears that he left Ardrossan with the 5.30 am workmen's train but becoming unwell on reaching his destination, he resolved to return home. The cause of death is believed to be failure of the heart's action. The deceased, who was seventy years of age, was a widower and resided with his son in Princes Street.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 9 May 1902

LABOURER SENTENCED FOR BEING DRUNK
A labourer, residing in Montgomerie Lane, imbibed rather much liquor on Saturday evening (3 May 1902) with the result that his flow of rhetoric was considerably lacking in gentility. Consequently, on Monday morning (5 May 1902), be was brought before the Bailie who offered him ten days quietude in Ayr jail or, as an alternative, to pay a fine of fourteen shillings.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

PRESENTATION TO MR AND MRS HILL
On the afternoon of Friday last (9 May 1902), a deputation consisting of Reverend McGilchrist, Provost Young, Provost Guthrie, Mr J R Smith, Mr John Adams and Mr Guthrie waited upon Mr and Mrs Hill at their residence, the Bank of Scotland, Ardrossan. The object of the visitation was to ask Mr and Mrs Hill's acceptance of some tangible token of Park Church congregation's esteem and regard on the occasion of their departure from the town. In making the presentation, Mr McGilchrist said the purpose of the deputation was to give some expression to the feelings of members and friends in Park Church on the occasion of Mr and Mrs Hill's leaving the town.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

FATALITY AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
An accident, resulting in the death of James Kay, a dock labourer, occurred on board the steamship Balmoral in Ardrossan Harbour early on Wednesday morning (14 May 1902). The deceased was engaged, along with others, in loading a cargo of sleepers and while standing by the foremast, a huge log, which was being lowered into the vessel by means of a crane, struck Kay on the head and breast, crushing him at the same time against the mast. Death was almost instantaneous. The deceased, who resided in Raise Street, Saltcoats, leaves a widow and four of a family.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 16 May 1902

PRESENTATION TO MR COLIN MORRISON
It was a most entertaining company which met in the Commercial Hotel on Friday evening (16 May 1902) to do honour to Mr Colin Morrison, late foreman in the engineering department of the Shipbuilding Company on the occasion of his leaving Ardrossan. The proceedings took the form of a smoking concert. Evidently, the shipyard employees believe that what is worth doing at all is worth doing well. At least, one could not but come to that conclusion on beholding the handsome silver hunting lever watch that was bestowed on Mr Morrison as a parting gift. Their appreciation of him, however, even went further than that as was shown by the charming gold brooch provide for Mrs Morrison. After the usual toasts were honoured, Mr McTaggart made the presentation. He was sorry, he said, that the presentation had to be made inasmuch that it signalled Mr Morrison's removing from their midst. They all sincerely regretted his going away but nevertheless that did not detract from their wish that prosperity and success would follow him. Mr Morrison, in briefly replying, expressed his thanks for the presents given to him and his wife. They would always remind them, he said, of the happy time spent in Ardrossan. He also greatly esteemed the kindness they had shown him while he was amongst them. During the course of the evening, numerous songs were rendered by members of the company. Messrs J and R Nairn supplied the articles.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

ARDROSSAN PAVEMENTS BETTER THAN SALTCOATS'?
He who walks on such days as yesterday on Saltcoats' pavements learns to have a greater appreciation of the pavements of Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

KEEP MOVING, HACKNEY DRIVERS
According to the Ardrossan magistrates, circumstances greatly alter cases. If a hackney carriage driver stands his vehicle in Princes Street, he is liable to be brought before the bench and mulcted in the sum of £2 but, on the other hand, if he drives up and down the street, even for a whole day, he does so with impunity.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

BROAD ARDROSSAN ACCENT
A paragraph appeared in this column some weeks ago referring to an imaginary conversation carried on between two Ardrossan boys concerning football. This was intended to show up the shockingly broad accent of the rising generation hereabouts, the so-called 'lower-ten'. The other extreme in the way of accent may be heard in the streets of London, something after the Kelvinside affected style of conversation, prevalent there a year or two ago and which was shown up in the Glasgow Press.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

ARDROSSAN MAN INJURED AT VLEIPLAATZ
The casualty list issued by the War Office on Saturday (17 May 1902) contains the name of Senior Troop Sergeant John McDowall as having been wounded at the fight at Vleiplaatz on 12 May. McDowall was a member of the First Ayrshire and Galloway Royal Artillery Volunteers (Ardrossan Company) and joined the 58th Company Imperial Yeomanry in March 1901 thereafter accompanying them to South Africa. He is a son of Mr D McDowall, High Boydstone. A later communication from the War Office stares that the would is only slight.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

ARDROSSAN VOLUNTEER INSPECTION
What has been described on many hands as the smartest Volunteer turnout ever beheld in Ardrossan was witnessed on Wednesday evening (21 May 1902) when the First Company of the First Ayrshire and Galloway Artillery marched to The Inches (shown below in 2003) where they underwent their annual inspection. Considerably over ninety per cent of the volunteers took part under the command of Captain Murchie. On the arrival of Colonel Dobbs, R A, the inspecting officer, a general salute was given after which the corps gave an exhibition of manual firing followed by gunnery practice with plug shell. Meanwhile, another detachment engaged in repository drill, dismounting and mounting the guns by parbuckling. Colonel Dobie thereafter addressed the men. He complimented them on their smart appearance but at the same time expressed regret that the number on parade was less than he had witnessed last year. The gun exercise he considered very good although he thought the gun raising might have been carried out with more celebrity. Some practice, however, would easily remedy that fault. The corps afterwards returned to the Drill Hall where refreshments were provided. Gold and silver badges were presented to the successful competitors in the Morris Tube Competition which was held during the winter. The winners were Sergeant Dodds, Gunner Neill, Corporal Crawford, Bom. Kentley, Gunner Steedman and Gunner Anderson. Sergeant Ferris presented a badge to Gunner Knox who had made the highest score in shooting. The decrease in the number at inspection as compared with last year is accounted for by the fact that a number have since gone to the front.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 23 May 1902

COMMERCIAL BAR AND RESTAURANT

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

BOOKSTALL FOR SOUTH BEACH STATION
The importance of South Beach Station is to be enhanced by the erection there of a bookstall.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

STEAMSHIP'S TRIAL TRIP
The steamship River Tay which was launched from the Ardrossan Shipbuilding Yard about a four weeks ago will undergo her trial trip today, Friday (30 May 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

ARDROSSAN TELLER MOVES TO PAISLEY
Mr George Kinnear, teller in the Ardrossan branch of the Bank of Scotland, has received an appointment in the company's service at Paisley.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

NURSING ASSOCIATION FOR THE SICK POOR OF ARDROSSAN
On behalf of the Nursing Association for the Sick Poor of Ardrossan, Miss Russell begs to acknowledge a donation of £1 15s from the local Cycling Club per Mr Robert Shaw, Saltcoats.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

LAIRD WEIR'S ESTATE PASSES TO CAPTAIN HUGH AULD
The estate of Kirkhall, Ardrossan, for so many years associated with the late Laird Weir has with the death of his sister, Mrs Young, passed into the hands of Captain Hugh Auld, Ardrossan Road.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

ARDROSSAN UNITED FREE PRESBYTERY
Ardrossan United Free Presbytery had honourable mention at Tuesday's (27 May 1902) meeting of the Assembly when it was referred to as first among the increasing Presbyteries to the Sustentation and Augmentation Fund. It had an advance to its credit of £133 19s.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

LAUNCH AT ARDROSSAN
On Thursday afternoon (29 May 1902), there was launched from the Ardrossan Shipbuilding Yard the screw steamer Arvor built to the order of Messrs E Marcescge and Company of Lerient. The vessel is of the raised quarter deck type. The dimensions are length 170 feet, breadth 27 feet, moulded depth 12 feet 6 inches. She will be propelled by triple expansion engines supplied by Messrs Bow McLaughlan and Company, Glasgow.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

BOATING FATALITY AT ARDROSSAN
On Friday evening last (23 May 1902), a harbour employee named William Kane met his death by drowning. The unfortunate man set sail in a small boat from the harbour and about three-quarters of a hour after he had gone, cries for help were heard proceeding from the direction of the Horse Island (shown below in 2011). Immediately, three men went out to ascertain the cause of the distressing cries and when a short distance from the island, they came across the boat in which Kane had gone off, drifting and empty. On the rocks were found his clothes. It was assumed he had landed and that after a short lapse of time discovered that his boat had drifted whereat he attempted to regain it by swimming out. A search was made therefore made and the body was discovered about one hundred yards from where he had evidently entered the water. The deceased, who was thirty-two years of age, resided in Glasgow Street.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902
An appeal for funds for the mother of William Kane was estanlised later.

ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE SOCIETY EXCURSION
On Wednesday (28 May 1902), the employees of the Ardrossan Cooperative Society Limited accompanied by their wives, sweethearts and one or two others, had their annual day's outing. Their destination was Inverkip. The company left the central premises per brakes between eight and nine o'clock with rain falling heavily but as they proceeded on their journey, the blue sky appeared and occasional showers were the order of the weather during the outward journey. Inverkip was reached shortly after twelve o'clock. A hall being secured, lunch was served. Thereafter, the company separated here and there. After dinner, they gathered on a field rented for the day and there they did enjoy themselves. Tired and worn-out, they deserted the field and attended again to the inner man, after which a start was made for home which was reached in safety under the illumination of the stars. The arrangements of the committee were worthy of commendation.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 30 May 1902

FIFTIETH YEAR OF THE ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS HERALD
Today's issue of the Herald is the first of its fiftieth year.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

ADDER IS A PROMENADING ATTRACTION
The Adder is responsible for the Harbour becoming Ardrossan's promenading place on fine evenings.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

SALTCOATS AND ARDROSSAN POSTER?
It is suggested that the Burgh authorities of Saltcoats and Ardrossan should jointly bear the cost of an illuminated poster showing the beauties of the two towns and their attractions as seaside resorts. Such posters are put up in prominent places in some of the principal towns of the United Kingdom and by this means induce some visitors to the district. Such a suggestion is well worthy of consideration.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

PRESENTATIONS TO MISS HARRIET McCALLUM
On the occasions of her approaching marriage, Miss Harriet McCallum, Glasgow Street, Ardrossan, was made the recipient of a number of handsome presents. Last week, the workers in Allison's dressmaking department presented her with a silver cake-basket. On Sunday morning last (1 June 1902), the monitors of the Children's Sabbath Morning Meeting asked her acceptance of three volumes by different authors while on Wednesday (4 June 1902), a deputation from the teachers of the Park United Free Church Sabbath School waited on Miss McCallum at her home and presented her with a marble timepiece. Each present was conveyed to Miss McCallum with a few kind words expressive of the best wishes of the givers for her future happiness.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

PEACE CELEBRATIONS IN SALTCOATS AND ARDROSSAN
To most people in Saltcoats and Ardrossan, the news of peace was first received per newspaper at the breakfast table and it was not long after the earliest breakfast to be sure - not long after the workman's chota hazri - that a rejoicing people set about the hunting out of flags. Soon, the whole vista of Glasgow Street and Princes Street, Ardrossan were made gay with bunting and in Saltcoats, many buildings, in particular the residence of the Town Clerk, were speedily decked out with flags. Ardrossan Harbour too had changed from its normal dinginess to a gay condition of which fluttering colours were the chiefest features. Every ship, foreign as well as British, made use of all its bunting. Later in the day, regiments of boys began to parade the streets, singing and battering tin cans and these demonstrations endured until the fall off night. All day too, preparations for a bonfire on the beach were being made and at dusk, a tolerable stack of lumber had been piled on the shingle, ready to be set alight. Once fired, the stack blazed merrily. The glare of it was visible a long way off and the general aspect of it, seen near at hand of at a distance, was impressive and memorable. Another bonfire had been kindled on the Castle Hill but that was a less significant affair, the crowd preferring to regard the greater blaze upon the beach. In Saltcoats, the evening demonstrations were not numerous. The Fair most probably attracted the bulk of the attention. Provost Guthrie, however, had the front of his residence prettily illuminated with Chinese lanterns, the sheen of which was visible a long way off.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS SECRETARY TO RETIRE?
We have been informed Mr James Wallace, the energetic secretary of the Ardrossan Winton Rovers has lately signalled his intention to resign office. Should this be true - and we have no reason to doubt our informant - it goes without saying that the Rovers will be the losers as in Mr Wallace they were fortunate in having the services of a faithful secretary. Untiring in his efforts, Mr Wallace has always had the best interests of the club at heart and the fact that this has been the case since the formation of the club, his retiral from the secretaryship is regretted by the Rovers. We express the hope of many of the members that Mr Wallace will reconsider his decision and, for the sake of the club, continue to render his valuable services for, say, another season at least.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 6 June 1902

SUPPRESSION OF PUBLIC BETTING
At Ardrossan and at Saltcoats Town Council meetings, in common with most similar assemblies in the county, a byelaw recommended by the County Council for the suppression of public betting was discussed. At Ardrossan, the matter was given serious consideration of the whole Council for at least some minutes. At Saltcoats, it was remitted to the magistrates. Well, nobody could probably object to the procedure in either case, although one might wish that the Saltcoats Council had deemed the matter worthy of lengthier comment and more decided action.
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

RUSSIAN STEAMER IN ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
A Russian steamer arrived in the Eglinton Dock yesterday (12 June 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

HOOLIGANS CATAPULT SEA-BIRDS
The latest hooligan practice at the Harbour is the catapulting of sea-birds.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

SMA' BOATS AT THE INCHES
The 'sma' boats' are again at The Inches but twenty 'sma' boats' do not make a summer.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

ISLE OF MAN SERVICE STARTS
The Isle of Man service started this week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

ABERDEEN MERCHANTS TRAVEL THROUGH ARDROSSAN
A large party of Aberdeen merchants took a trip to the Isle of Man on Monday (9 June 1902). They travelled to Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

ARDROSSAN BUILDERS FINED
At a Dean of Guild Court held in Ardrossan on Wednesday (11 June 1902), two local builders were fined each £2 for erecting buildings not in accordance with plans passed by the Court and a further £1 1s each for allowing the houses to be occupied before authority was granted by the Burgh.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

ARDROSSAN FARMERS SOCIETY - ANNUAL CATTLE SHOW
The annual show of horses, cattle et cetera, under the auspices of the above society took place in a field adjoining South Beach Station yesterday (12 June 1902). Weather conditions were by no means of the best, the day being dull and occasionally rainy. A considerable number of people, townsfolk as well as farmers, turned out, however, and in this respect at least, the exhibition was hardly behind former years. Entries, too, were fairly numerous and generally of a high standard. Much of the stock shown comprised prizewinners at other and larger gatherings. As usual, the arrangements were under the able direction of Mr Arthur Craig, the energetic secretary of the society and it must be said that such success as does attend the show in these degenerate days is very largely due to his efforts.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB v WEST KILBRIDE BOWLING CLUB
The return fixture between West Kilbride and Ardrossan came off last Friday (6 June 1902) on the green of the latter club. In the earlier stages of the game, rain fell which had the effect of making the turf a little stiff. At half-time, the visitors had a substantial lead and it looked as if they were going to repeat the 'dose' administered a fortnight previous. Matters, however, took a different turn and, as the appended scores will show, Ardrossan come out on top being twenty-two shots up. Over the two games, West Kilbride have a clear majority of twenty shots.
Ardrossan West Kilbride
Captain Torrance 36 - T Mathieson 12
J M Comrie 19 - J Wilson 18
John Allison 17 - P Jack 15
William Gilroy 13 - J Oliphant 22
D Gillies 16 - R Craig 19
William Tannock 25 - A Jack 18
126 104 majority 22 shots
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL
The monthly meeting of the Parish Council was held on Tuesday evening (10 June 1902). After the minutes had been approved of, a letter was read from the Local Government Board recommending the Council to increase the allowance given to widows on the roll who had young children at home if, under the circumstances, the mothers would be able to attend the children instead of going out to work and leaving them in the care of neighbours. A few of the members of the Council greatly approved of the recommendation. The clerk said the Ardrossan Parish Council were far ahead of others in the matter of giving relief. The chairman said the annual visit to the Asylum and Poorhouse would take place on 19 June if members found that date convenient. Captain Torrance expressed the hope that the trip would be carried out on economical lines and that there would be nothing stronger to drink than milk or water (laughter).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB
Last week, the above club wrought two events off their somewhat big programme. On Thursday evening (5 June 1902), the opening cruise was sailed over the club course when a goodly number of yachts turned out and an interesting match was witnessed by the many spectators who lined the piers and other places. Commodore Shields was in command and started the yachts from commodore ship at the lighthouse (shown below in 2011) on a triangular course of six hundred yards. Mr Harry Hughes' Alasca was first at the home mark. The match on Saturday (7 June 1902) was one of three races for the club Cup over the same course with a distance of 1800 yards. Saturday forenoon was dull, cold and threatening with slight showers and the prospects of a yacht race were anything but bright. However, as the day wore on, the sun, as if he were wont to smile approvingly on the efforts of the popular Model Yacht club, shone brightly forth with warmth and beauty and lit up the hay in golden glory. At 3.36, the yachts were slipped from the Commodore in pairs in the following order.
Rambler, 10 rater - Blair, Saltcoats
Snarley Yow, 10 rater - A McLean, senior
Alasca, 10 rater - H Hughes
May, 10 rater - A McLean, junior
Petral, 5 rater - A Hughes
Glanre, 10 rater - T McMurtrie, Saltcoats
Dakoto, 5 rater - A Allan
Mr Samuel Black and Mr D McPherson were acting officers on board the Commodore. It was a broad reach to the lee buoy and in the feintest of feint airs the yachts made slow progress and got pretty much mixed up. A vein of southerly wind came across the bay and the best to the windmark mark put more life into their yachts and the spirit of those who sailed them. A run home to the Commodore completed the first round. The second round ended with the following results.
Alasca, H Hughes - 12 points
May, A McLean, junior - 6 points
Snarley Yow, A McLean, senior - 3 points
Petral, A Hughes - 11 points, 3 rater
On Saturday (14 June 1902), the race is for the silver challenge medal presented by Mr James Barbour and promises to be an interesting one.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

ARDROSSAN SCHOOL BOARD
The Board met on Thursday 12 June. Present were the Reverend R Mordue, presiding, the Reverend W Rossie Brown, Provost Guthrie and Mr Morris. The treasurer submitted estimates of income and expenditure for the current year after consideration of which it was resolved to intimate to the Parish Council that the amount required to be raised by means of school rate was £4500, being the same as for last year. On the motion of Mr Rossie Brown, it was unanimously resolved to appoint the Reverend William McGilchrist, Park Church, Ardrossan, a member of the Board, in succession to Mr Hill. This was all the business of importance.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 13 June 1902

CHARLES GALLAGHER

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - A DESERVING CASE
The members of the Ardrossan Young Men's Christian Association desire to thank their fellow townsmen for the generous response to the appeal on behalf of Mrs Kane whose son was drowned under such sad circumstances at the Horse Island on 23 May. The sum realised amounts to £46 13s 10d. Should any who may have been overlooked desire to contribute to the fund, they would oblige by sending their donation to the treasurer, Mr John Turner, 153 Glasgow Street or any of the members of the Association.
I am et cetera
Alexander MacMillan, Secretary
YMCA Hall
Ardrossan
18 June 1902
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902
William Kane was drowned on 23 May 1902.

POST OFFICE ARRANGEMENTS FOR CORONATION DAY
The Post Office officials in Ardrossan have given notice that the postal and telegraph arrangements shall be the same as on Sundays. There will be only one delivery of letters and parcels by postmen, commencing at 7.10 am. The Office will be open to the public from 9 am to 10 am for the sale of stamps, registration of letters and telegraph business only. There will be only one despatch of letters on that day which will take place in the afternoon. Friday 27 June will be observed as an ordinary bank holiday. There will be only one delivery by postmen, commencing at 7.10 am. The Office will be open throughout the day for parcel post and telegraph business including telephone trunk service, delivery of private box and Poste Restante letters, express delivery of letters and parcels, registration of letters and sale of stamps. Despatches of letter and parcel mails will be made as usual. Letters arriving during the day cannot be given out to callers residing in the town district.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902

CORONATION SERVICE IN SAINT JOHN'S CHURCH
In connection with the Coronation, a public service is announced to take place in Saint John's, Ardrossan. Special items of praise are being rehearsed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902

CORONATION DISPLAYS IN SHOP WINDOWS
With us in Ardrossan, there is at least to be a church service on Coronation Day and after all, some of the drapers and upholsterers are showing Coronation stuff in their windows. We are not absolutely disloyal.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902

CIRCUS PARADE IN ARDROSSAN
The horny handed son of toil had his midday meal-hour gladdened yesterday (19 June 1902) by the passage through Ardrossan of a circus procession.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902

ARDROSSAN DRY DOCK AND SHIP BUILDING COMPANY GETS ORDER FOR TWO STEAMERS
The Ardrossan Dry Dock and Ship Building Company have booked an order for two light draught coasting steamers for a South of England firm.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902

LAIRD LINE EMPLOYEES ENJOY A TRIP ON THE AZALEA
The employees of the Laird Line were on Saturday (14 June 1902) entertained to a trip on board the company's steamer Azalea which commenced sailings from Ardrossan to Portrush on Tuesday. The party included, among others, Lord Angus Kennedy and Messrs Wallace and Macreadie of the Ailsa Shipbuilding Company, Troon, Captain Shields, Ardrossan and representatives from various railway and steamship companies. The voyage was made from Greenock to Loch Goil then down the Firth as far as Toward Point. Fortunately, the weather was comparatively good and an enjoyable day was spent.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 20 June 1902

WEDDING PRESENT FOR MISS JEANIE FULLERTON
Last Tuesday evening (24 June 1902), Miss Jeanie Fullerton was made the recipient of a handsome biscuit barrel along with two Bibles on the occasion of her marriage from the Ardrossan Parish Church Sabbath School teachers. Mr McMurtrie, the superintendent, made the presentation.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

FIRE IN ARDROSSAN
A fire, which happily was not of a serious nature, occurred on Saturday afternoon (21 June 1902) in the premises occupied by Mr J R Smith, agent for the Glengarnock Iron and Steel Company, situated at the corner of Montgomerie and Princes Streets. The flames broke out in a coal bunker but before they had secured a foothold, the alarm was given and the fire brigade were quickly on the scene. In a short time, the fire was subdued but although little damage had been done, the floor above suffered from the effects of being flooded with water. The premises were covered by insurance.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

POSTPONMENT OF CORONATION IMPACTS ARDROSSAN
The news of the King's serious illness and the consequent postponement of the Coronation reached Ardrossan very early in the afternoon of Tuesday (24 June 1902). The weather that day was very bright and rapid progress was being made in the decorating the town anent Thursday's (26 June 1902) happenings. In the forenoon, there was no thought that all these preparations were in vain. The greater part of Princes Street was swathed in vivid cloths and some houses in the Crescent (shown below in the early 1910s) - notably those of the Honourable Thomas Cochrane and Mr Leask - were very gay with flags and other ornaments and when the sad, the disappointing tidings came at first, there was no immediate desire to interrupt the work of decoration. It was not until the evening when the postponement of the Coronation was seen to be inevitable that the work of putting up more bunting was actually stopped and the taking of it down commenced. By Wednesday morning (25 June 1902), much - perhaps the most of it - had disappeared. The first building to be stripped of its gay trappings was the Town Hall which the Council had ordered to be decorated in a most lavish manner. A consultation of Magistrates took place on Wednesday morning and it was agreed to recommend that all the decorations should be removed immediately. The only fixed event for Thursday had been the building of a bonfire on the Cannon Hill. Arrangements had also been made by Mr Porter, Elsing House for an elaborate display of fireworks. These events have naturally been postponed. Yesterday, the public works and all the shops were closed and the Reverend Mr Adamson conducted an intercessory service in the Saint John's Church in lieu of the Coronation service which had been previously announced.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

MASSIVE WAGES FOR CREW AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
Something like £700 was paid away in wages by the crew of a steamer which arrived in Ardrossan Harbour this week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

WINTON SCHOOL EXAMINATION
Winton School (shown below in 2007) was closed on Monday (23 June 1902). How auspicious was that day! How appropriate its warm sunshine, its bright, blue sky! A holiday is ever more desirable when the commencement of it is thus blessed with the weather of the ideal summer and it must have been that to the youngsters who emerged on Tuesday (24 June 1902) from the comparative slavery of school, the liberty of the immediate future was as a golden dream. At any rate, the closing ceremonies at the Winton School were carried out under the presidency of the reverend W Rossie Brown, with a zest which drew much of its inspiration, not so much from an appreciation of the good things of the moment as from anticipation of yet better things to come. Every class, from the infants to the most advanced, performed their duties readily and with an obvious enjoyment in the doing of them which was inspiring to see. The infant department was disposed of first. In the large classroom devoted to it, many ladies, parents presumably of the little scholars, watched the doings of the class and those doings were worth watching. The very tiniest pupils went through drill exercises in the most admirable way, so carefully, so thoroughly were they trained. Particularly excellent was an exercise with parasols, a very pretty, pleasing exhibition and the singing was good too. In an adjoining room were shown samples of the little pupils' handicraft - examples of needlework and of brush-drawing.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

EGLINTON SCHOOL MIDSUMMER EXHIBITION
That yearly event which is interesting to both teachers and scholars alike - the midsummer exhibition - came off at Eglinton School (shown below in 1972), as in several Board schools, on Monday (23 June 1902). There was a large gathering of parents and relatives of the children besides members of the School Board. The class which received most attention from the spectators was the Infant Department. Not only had the little ones received teaching in the elements of learning but they were also trained in singing and reciting and the exhibition they gave in both these subjects was really marvellous. Indeed, it may safely be said that no pains have been spared on the part of the teachers concerned in bringing the young ones to a high standard of efficiency. Not the least noticeable feature of the exhibition given was a display of military drill with miniature rifles. The other classes seemed to be all well up in the subjects taught them, especially grammar, which subject boys as a rule have a decided aversion to. Indian club swinging is also an art which in Eglinton School is evidently receiving much attention. Reverend Mr Adamson, previous to the prizes being presented, congratulated the teachers on having so successfully carried through their work.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

DISAPPOINTING JUNO
The Juno disappointed a large crowd of intending trippers yesterday (26 June 1902) by not calling at Ardrossan Pier but this has been a week of disappointments.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

MORE RATES FROM ARDROSSAN RATEPAYERS?
Ardrossan Parish ratepayers have not yet seen the end of the school building projects. A further addition to the Academy is contemplated.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

WINTON ROVERS TO PICNIC IN LOCHWINNOCH
Ardrossan Winton Rovers Football club forsake the football field tomorrow (28 June 1902) for the Calder Glen, Lochwinnoch. The occasion is their second annual picnic.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

ARDROSSAN BOATS BUSY
The advent of summer has given a rather sudden fillip to the steamboat traffic from Ardrossan. Yesterday (26 June 1902), the Belfast boat, the Portrush boat and the Arran boat has each passengers to give the pursers regular employment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

NEW GLASGOW TO ARDROSSAN TRAIN SERVICE
Beginning on 1 July, the service between Ardrossan and Arran will be augmented and a new express train will leave Glasgow (Glasgow and South-Western) for Ardrossan Pier at 1.55 pm on Saturdays.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

ANYBODY WANT A FIGHT?
A boisterous drunk, who was evidently affected by the heat on Wednesday evening (25 June 1902), divested himself of jacket and vest in Princes Street (shown below in the mid 1910s). He then struck an attitude after which he proceeded to demonstrate that he was prepared to strike anyone who came within measurable distance of his fist. As no one accepted the challenge, however, he wandered off, much to the relief of peace-loving pedestrians.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 27 June 1902

BUSY TRAIN FROM GLASGOW TO ARDROSSAN
Now that the holiday season is in full swing, the 9.10 am train from Saint Enoch's to Ardrossan bids fair to be the heaviest that steams out of the South-Western Railway terminus.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 July 1902

COMMEMORATIVE SERVICES IN SAINT JOHN'S CHURCH
Special services commemorative of the congregational history will be held in Saint John's United Free Church, Ardrossan on Sunday first (6 July 1902) when the preacher is the reverend J J Glen-Kippen, BD of Pitcairngreen.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 July 1902

DISCHARGED PRISONERS' SOCIETY
Mr P Fraser McKenna does not see why Ardrossan, Irvine and Cumnock, all of which contribute many prisoners to Ayr Gaol, should not help to keep up the funds of the Discharged Prisoners' Society as well as the charitably-disposed in the county town.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 July 1902

BARQUENTINE SOLD
We understand that the iron barquentine now lying in Ardrossan Harbour has been sold to Mr R Boustead of Saltcoats. Much is to be spent on the repairing and rejuvenating of the vessel which, after being reclassed, will sail under the French flag. There is a possibility , we believe, of other orders coming hitherwards from France.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 July 1902
A barquentine is a sailing vessel with three or more masts.

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS FOOTBALL CLUB PICNIC
The second annual picnic in connection with the Winton Rovers Football Club took place on Saturday last (28 June 1902), the destination this year being Calder Glen. Splendid weather prevailed and a happy company, numbering between thirty and forty, left about 9 am. per Mrs Allan's well-appointed char-a-banc. After a most enjoyable drive, Lochwinnoch was reached in good time and the party proceeded to a field overlooking the Glen where ample justice was done to the good things set down. A pleasant time was afterwards spent in football, dancing et cetera and later in the afternoon, tea was served. The return journey was commenced about 7 o'clock and, although the weather became somewhat colder, it did not in any way affect the cheeriness of the trippers, every one of whom arrived home apparently well satisfied with the day's outing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 July 1902

ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE PRESENTATION TO MISS MARY BARR
On the evening of Monday 23 June, Miss Mary Barr, who has served for some time as cash girl in the Ardrossan Cooperative Society's central shop, was presented with a very handsome black marble timepiece to mark the occasion of her marriage. The presentation was made in the Society's office by John P Brown, manager, and Mr William Ford, head salesman, acknowledged the gift on behalf of Miss Barr.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 July 1902

A RAILWAY CHANGE - PROMOTION OF MR SIMPSON
The news that Mr Simpson (shown below), Caledonian Station-master at Ardrossan has been appointed superintendent of the Goods Department of the Caledonian Railway Company at Dumfries will be pleasing to his many friends. Ever since he came to this neighbourhood upwards of thirteen years ago, Mr Simpson has been on the best of terms with all with whom business brought him into contact. He has been respected by all who knew him and, although he took no part in public affairs, he is known of in not a few. Thirty years have gone since Mr Simpson first joined the railway service. He was little over ten years of age at that time and it was in the goods department at Grangemouth that he commenced his career. For sixteen years, he worked on in that place, rising step by stop until in the end, he was chief clerk of the department. Then the Lanarkshire and Ayrshire Railway was opened in 1883 and Mr Simpson was appointed first Station-master at Saltcoats, a position which he filled very acceptably for five years. At the end of that time, he was shifted to Ardrossan and here for the past eight and a half years, he has remained. It must be said that the business of the company has prospered at Ardrossan under his regime for, to say truth, both the passenger and the mineral traffic have increased by fifty per cent since he came. That is a record good enough for any man and it sufficiently eloquent as to Mr Simpson's efficiency as a comptroller of railway business. With the Harbour Company and all the merchants of the district, his relations have ever been most cordial and it goes without saying that to these people, Mr Simpson's advancement will seem but the proper reward of merit. Hundreds of applications for the post at Dumfries were submitted which makes the fact of Mr Simpson's election the more significant.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 4 July 1902

NEW JUSTICES OF THE PEACE FOR AYRSHIRE
On the recommendation of the Right Honourable the earl of Eglinton and Winton, Lieutenant of Ayrshire, the following names have been added to the Commission of the Peace for the County.
   Robert Gemmell, 6 Portland Road, Kilmarnock
   George Dunlop, Struan Villas, Portland Road, Kilmarnock
   John Wylie MB, CM, 10 London Road, Kilmarnock
   Alexander Robertson senior, Pegn Villa, Dean Terrace, Kilmarnock
   Samuel Galbraith, Cumnock
   James Cochrane Highet, Williamfield, Miller Road, Ayr
   Alexander Parker, West Road, Irvine
   Carl Olof Lundholm, Ardeer, Stevenston
   William Sneddon, MD, Stevenston
   William Graham of Crosbie, West Kilbride
   Alexander Boyd, Turnberry, Pollockshields
   John Thomson Howat, colliery manager, Kilwinning
   John Hogarth, banker, Ardrossan (shown below)
   
   Andrew Patrick, Greenbank, Dalry
   George Lammie, Grangemuir, Prestwick
   William Mackie, Troon
   John Morris, bank agent, Largs
   William Wilson, Castlehill, Ayr
   Francis Henry McFadin, brigade surgeon, 10 Park Circus, Ayr
   Quintin Macadam of Dinwoodie by Ayr
   James Stirling of Foulton, Cairnhill, Hurlford
   Peter Jeffrey Mackie of Corraith, Ayr
   George McKerrow, MB, CM, Barns Street, Ayr
   William Kennedy, Doon Villa, Ayr
   James Nisbet, Weirston Cottage, Kilwinning
   John Cunningham, MB, CM, Stewarton
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 July 1902

PRESENTATION TO MR AND MRS E J HILL FROM THE YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
On Wednesday evening (9 July 1902), a large number of ladies and gentlemen assembled in the Young Men's Christian Association Hall to witness the presentation of 'tangible tokens of esteem' from the Young Men's Christian Association to Mr and Mrs E J Hill. Mr Galloway of Kilmeny (shown below as the Hotel Kilmeny in the 1970s) presided and was accompanied on the platform by Mr and Mrs Hill, Reverend Mr McGilchrist, Reverend Mr Adamson and Mr Russell. Tea was served to the assemblage at have past seven, the which being over, Mr Galloway rose to speak. When he first heard, he said, that Mr and Mrs Hill were to leave Ardrossan, he felt as if a great calamity had come over the whole district. Ever since they had came amongst the people of Ardrossan, they had attached themselves to every good work with a zeal which had been an inspiration to not a few.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 July 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

SAILINGS FROM ARDROSSAN TO DUNDALK AND NEWRY
On Thursday next (17 July 1902), sailings will be commenced from Ardrossan to Dundalk and Newry and will continue during the Fair holidays.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 July 1902

ORDERS FOR FOUR COASTING STEAMERS
The Ardrossan Dry Dock and shipbuilding Company Limited have just booked orders for four coasting steamers. Three of the steamers will be built for English firms and one for a Scotch firm.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 July 1902

HACKNEY CARRIAGE DRIVERS FINED
On Monday (7 July 1902), two hackney carriage drivers residing in Saltcoats appeared at Ardrossan Burgh Court charged with having allowed their vehicles to stand in Princes Street to the annoyance of shopkeepers and the obstruction of traffic. Mr Kirkland, writer, who appeared for both the accused, questioned the relevancy of the charge but the bench repelled the objections and evidence was led. Eventually, the charge was found proven and a fine of 10s was imposed, the alternative being seven days imprisonment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 July 1902

MODEL YACHTING AT ARDROSSAN
Last Saturday (5 July 1902) witnessed the seventh event of the local club wiped off the racing programme under weather conditions charming and delightful to visitor and spectator. The racing fleet of yachts was greatly augmented by the addition of seven boats for the Paisley Model Yacht club. Thirteen yachts entered for honours, their sterling value averaging £5 each, and long before the hour of starting, the spacious bay presented one of the best picturesque scenes - so far as model yachting goes - ever witnessed in the annals of its history. Scattered over the bay in rich profusion, the yachts, like so many swans, glided gracefully and swiftly over the surface of the water, their white sails glinting in the sunlight and the crews perspiring in the sweltering heat of the sun. The snap-shot photographer was in evidence and doubtless many beautiful pictures were taken of the miniature racing machines at and about the starting line. The inter-club match was arranged for before the printed programme of the local yacht club was published and fortunately for all concerned, a better day could not have been desired. A call from the Commodore brought the yachts to the line. Commodore Captain Shields (shown below) and Vice-Commodore Captain C Murchie were officers for the day. Mr D McPherson looked after the numbering and timing of the boats. At 3.45, six of the thirteen yachts crossed the line to a beautiful start.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 11 July 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

HIGHER SCHOOL FOR GIRLS PHOTO

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

TO QUARRIERS AND OTHERS

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

ISLE OF MAN STEAMERS
Two steamers will leave Ardrossan for the Isle of Man today (18 July 1902), one in the forenoon and one in the afternoon.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

EIGHT STEAMERS FROM ARDROSSAN TO IRELAND
Messrs G and J Burns will sail eight steamers to Ireland from Ardrossan today (18 July 1902) and five on Saturday (19 July 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

AWARD FOR ARDROSSAN ARTILLERYMAN
Gunner Allan McNeil of the Ardrossan Company of Artillerymen has been awarded an Long Service Medal.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

THE PRIME MINISTER OF FUN
The Prime Minister Of Fun by Mr W F Frame offers a happy night to the people of Ardrossan on Monday 4 August.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

PRESENTATION TO MR HOLMES
On Wednesday evening (16 July 1902), Mr Holmes was entertained by a number of friends in Ardrossan on the occasion of his marriage and presented with a handsome marble timepiece. Mr R L Alpine, in a neat and witty speech, made the presentation to which Mr Holmes suitably replied. A happy hour was afterwards spent in song et cetera.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

PASTOR JACOB PRIMMER AT SOUTH BEACH
Pastor Jacob Primmer held his annual conventicle of the South Beach, Ardrossan, last Monday evening (14 July 1902). He was accompanied by the Reverend William MacDougall the 'martyr' of Coatbridge and a large crowd assembled on the beach to hear Mr Primmer's address. He severely criticised Professor George Adam Smith's recent book on Old Testament inspiration and Professor Dods's work on the Pentateuch. He strongly condemned the alleged Ritualistic movement in the Scottish Presbyterian Churches and Roman Catholics in general and the Pope in particular were subjected to some very severe strictures.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

FROM PULPIT TO PRISON
Reverend W C McDougall of Coatbridge is due to give his lecture From Pulpit To Prison at South Beach Green on Sunday afternoon (20 July 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - WINTON ROVERS FOOTBALL CLUB
Ardrossan, 7 July 1902
Sir
A meeting of members and committee of the above club was held in the Templars' Hall on 28 June for the purpose of electing a new committee and hearing reports on last season's work. Owing to the small turnout of members, it was agreed to postpone the meeting until 11 July. I would some of the committee to inform me why this meeting was not held or if they intend to have any meeting this year. If they intend to follow the latter course, I think it is time the members were taking the matter in hand and appointing a new committee as until there is one, the team cannot be harmoniously and prosperously carried on. Hoping the committee will take notice and call a meeting soon,
I am et cetera
Member
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 18 July 1902

COATBRIDGE MARTYR ADDRESSES ARDROSSAN AUDIENCE
The Reverend Mr MacDougall, the Coatbridge 'martyr' gave a recital of his doing in prison to an Ardrossan audience last Sunday (20 July 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 1902

JUNO NOT AVAILABLE
Yesterday (24 July 1902), the Juno again disappointed many intending trippers both at Troon and Ardrossan and a relief steamer was not available.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 190

NINE RELIGIOUS MEETINGS IN ONE EVENING
Along the beach, between Winton Circus, Saltcoats and Arran Place, Ardrossan, nine religious meeting were being held at the same time on Sabbath evening last (20 July 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 190

EGOTISTIC PREACHER?
Street preachers, as a rule, are not gifted with an over-abundance of modesty but the evangelist who, when referring to a friend of his on the South Green the other night said "a young fellow like myself - very smart" was surely pressing himself in the words of an egotist.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 190

ISLE OF MAN STEAMER BUSY
Passenger traffic to the Isle of Man continues to be very heavy and tonight (25 July 1902) will probably witness the departure of a large crowd of weekenders.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 190

ISLE OF MAN STEAMER BUSY
Passenger traffic to the Isle of Man continues to be very heavy and tonight (25 July 1902) will probably witness the departure of a large crowd of weekenders.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 190

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - SAILINGS FROM ARDROSSAN
Sir
It is true that there is no Clyde port south of Greenock from which it is possible to enjoy so excellent and so varied a service of pleasure sailings as at Ardrossan but, praiseworthy as that service is, one feels, especially at this season, that frequenter sailings down the Firth so far, say, as Girvan and the Craig, would be very largely taken advantage of. Meanwhile such a sail is wanted. People who come from Glasgow have little wish to sail up the Firth and the occasions on which the Juno sails southward are too infrequent to be satisfactory. I am certain that did either of the steamboat companies arrange a daily sailing to the Craig and Ayr and Girvan during July and August, the venture would not be unpredictable.
I am et cetera
Glasgow Tripper
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 190

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - ADVERTISEMENTS ON LAMP POSTS
Sir
I think it is a wise decision of the Ardrossan Council to have direction boards, which are purely advertisements, removed from the lamp posts. In a short time, we would have every pillar decorated with signs such as 'This way to the Refreshment Bar' and 'To the right for Pierto Ghishleri's Ice Cream Saloon', 'Straight on for genuine salt water baths'. Certainly, we might have been relieved of rates altogether if, by a farming process, the Council extracted a fee from each post possessor but what astonishes me now is that although the resolution was passed for immediate removal, the Adder and Portrush boards still remain and, wonderful to relate, one board made a midnight flitting from pillar to pillar. Who gave permission for this and why have the Council's orders not been carried out?
I am et cetera
Anti-Sign
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 25 July 1902

CHIMNEY SWEEPER FINED FOR ASSAULT
At Ardrossan Burgh Court on Monday (28 July 1902), a chimney sweeper was charged with assault. On Saturday evening (26 July 1902), he accused two neighbours of being instrumental in sending his son to a reformatory and in the quarrel that ensued, be assaulted them. A sentence of twenty-one days imprisonment was passed, the alternative being a fine of 30s. This is the chimney sweeper's ninth conviction.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

NEW ARDROSSAN HARBOUR COMPANY DIRECTOR
Mr David Laidlaw, Ardeer House, was yesterday (31 July 1902) elected a director of Ardrossan Harbour Company.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

GLASGOW EXCURSIONISTS VISIT ISLE OF MAN
About 1500 Glasgow excursionists were in the Isle of Man last week. Nearly all of these travelled via Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

ARDROSSAN ARTILLERYMEN GO TO BUDDON
It is to be hoped there will be no declaration of war against Great Britain next week. The Ardrossan Artillerymen go off to Buddon tomorrow (2 August 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

ARDROSSAN GREETS COLONIAL PREMIERS
Ardrossan turned out in considerable numbers to greet the Colonial Premiers and showed their welcome by cheering promiscuously the party from Ardeer as they went on board the Glen Sannox.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

THISTLE SALUTES COLONIAL PREMIERS
The Laird Line steamer Thistle, laden with excursionists from Portrush arrived at Montgomerie Pier on Monday (28 July 1902) just as the Glen Sannox with the Colonial Premiers on board was leaving, The Thistle sounded her horn by way of salute and the Glen Sannox responded. The same train that brought the distinguished party to Ardrossan served to convey the Portrush passengers rapidly to their destinations.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

ARDROSSAN RATES RISE
Ardrossan ratepayers will have reason to scan their next assessment with more than usual interest. The figures are higher, a matter of well nigh five pence per pound additional, no less being required to make both ends meet.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

ARDROSSAN HARBOUR COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENT
The net revenue of the Ardrossan Harbour Company for the half-year ending on 15 May was £5520 13s 3d. Yesterday (31 July 1902), a dividend of 4 1/2 per cent was declared on the Preference Shares, the sum of £2145 18s 3d being carried forward.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

EVANGELISTIC MEETINGS ON SOUTH BEACH GREEN
The evangelistic meetings conducted by the Reverend Mr Powers on South Beach Green during the week have attracted large audiences. Mrs Powers has created a favourable impression by the manner and character of her addresses.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

ARDROSSAN ASSESSMENTS
At a special meeting of Ardrossan Town Council held on Tuesday evening (29 July 1902), it was resolved after careful consideration of the balance sheet to impose the following assessments for year 1902-1903 - Police, 1s 3d, the same as last year; Public Health, 5 1/2 d, one half payable by owner and one half by occupier, an increase of 1d; Roads and Streets, 4d, an increase of 1d; Water, 10d, as last year. In addition to these, a special sewer rate of 2d, on half payable by occupier and one half by owner and sewer assessment under Police Act, 1/2 d.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 1 August 1902

CORONATION SERVICES IN ARDROSSAN NEW PARISH CHURCH

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

EXPENSIVE ARDROSSAN GAS
Troon Town Council show a consideration for users of gas for trade purposes which Ardrossan Town Council might imitate. The rate in Troon is less by 10d per 1000 cubic feet than to ordinary customers. In Ardrossan, there is no difference.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

FIREWORKS DISPLAY
The lieges may look forward to a rare display of fireworks on Monday night (11 August 1902). In the absence of Mr Lewis Porter of Elsing House, Miss Porter and the Messrs Porter have arranged for carrying out the programme originally intended for 26 June.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

CORONATION DAY CRUISE
Mr James Baird Thorneycroft, chairman of the Ayrshire Coalowners' Association, honours Coronation Day by inviting a large party to a cruise on the steamship Carrick from Ardrossan Pier.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB
Owing to the enormous steamer traffic at the Glasgow Fair holidays, the matches of the above club were held over till the 31 July when the race for Mr Hugh Paton's prize was run over the usual triangular course. There entered for the race six boats, namely Dakota - William Milne, Rambler - Alexander Blair, Alasca - H Hughes, Ina - A McLean senior, Snarley Yow - A McLean junior and Petrel - A Hughes. The yachts were slipped at 7.19 pm in a crisp breeze of northerly wind and quickly got scattered. Some nice handling was put in especially in inward work and they finished in the following order - Ina, first prize; Rambler, second prize; Alasca, third prize; Snarley Yow; Petrel and Dakota. The second race for the Club Cup was sailed on Saturday last (2 August 1902) when only four yachts entered, namely, Petrel, A Hughes; Ina, A McLean senior; Snarley Yow, A McLean junior and Alasca, H Hughes. There was a very strong wind blowing and a heavy sea running during the race and some difficulty was experienced in handling the boats. The times were - Ina 4 hours, 28 minutes, 7 seconds; Snarley Yow 4 hours, 29 minutes, 50 seconds and Petrel 4 hours, 37 minutes, 9 seconds. Alasca did not finish and Ina was disqualified for taking the wrong course. Both matches were in the hands of Mr James Barbour who, ably and efficiently discharged the duties of commodore. A race will be sailed on Saturday (9 August 1902) for a prize presented by Mr William Guthrie, Club patron.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

DOES HE READ THE NEWSPAPERS?
A speaker at a meeting held recently in Ardrossan mentioned that although he regularly read the Glasgow Herald and other papers, he did not believe a word that was in them. In the same breath, he referred to the reports anent the Coronation celebrations but how he had come to the conclusion that there was to be such a thing as a Coronation unless he did read the newspapers is known only to himself.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

ARDROSSAN HARBOUR BUSY
This week, there has been a full and busy harbour at Ardrossan. Sleepers in great quantity have gone for the making of the Cape to Cairo Railway. Two vessels have brought cargoes of Newfoundland iron ore. Several loads of Spanish ore have come in. Pit props have been imported and besides the usual coasting trade in limestone, coal and pig iron, a considerable amount of bunker coal has thundered down the tips.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

APPLE THIEVES FINED
Apples at one time played a prominent part in the history of the universe. That part of history repeated itself to a small extent last week two Ardrossan boys found access to a garden in the North Crescent (shown below in the early 1900s) and commenced to fill their pockets with the forbidden fruit. Unfortunately for them, a policeman appeared upon the scene and subsequently they appeared at the Burgh Court where they were fined 5s and 2s 6d respectively.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - EVENING CRUISES FROM ARDROSSAN
Sir
Looking over the steamer programme for August which is published by the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company, I have been surprised to find how greatly favoured in the matter of evening cruises are some of the Clyde ports compared with Ardrossan. During this month, for example, there are no fewer than thirteen evening cruises from Ayr and five from Troon while Ardrossan is permitted only one. Why should this be so? It is admitted, to be sure, that Ayr is a much more populous place than the other two but it is doubtful if Troon is any more important than Ardrossan which, of course, includes Saltcoats in this connection. Certainly, the Railway Company are not less likely to make a revenue from such cruises out of Saltcoats and Ardrossan than out of Troon and it remains to be shown why the last-named resort should receive favours which the other two do not.
Yours et cetera
Cruiser
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 8 August 1902

PROMOTION FOR ARDROSSAN POLICE SERGEANT
Sergeant Allan of Ardrossan police force has received an appointment as Inspector of Police in Ayrshire. He joined the police force over twenty years ago in Perthshire and for the last fourteen years he has served in various towns throughout Ayrshire. He will probably remain in Ardrossan and carry on his duties from that centre.
            Glasgow Herald, 12 August 1902

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
The usual monthly meeting of Ardrossan Town Council was held at Kilmahew on Monday evening (11 August 1902). Present were Provost Young presiding, Bailie Hogarth and Councillors Crawford, Guthrie and Harvey.
    Glasgow And South-Western Railway Company Crossing
        A letter from the Company was read stating that the matter complained of was being looked into by the
        Superintendent of the Line.
    Crescent Green
        The Clerk read a letter from Mr Stevenson in which he said that as soon as he had seen Mr Vernon, he
        would communicate further with the Council
    Passage Between Montgomerie Street and Glasgow Street
        A letter was read from the Caledonian Railway company stating that the application of the Town Council
        anent above had been submitted to the directors but the latter regretted that they could not see their
        way to comply with the Council's request.
    Burgh Surveyor's Report Book
        The Burgh Surveyor reported that the condition of the iron fence at Arran Place was unsatisfactory. To
        repair it, the sum of £2 15s would be required.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 August 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN COOPERATIVE SOCIETY LIMITED
The one hundred and twenty third quarterly meeting was held on Friday last (8 August 1902), Mr James Barbour in the chair. The attendance of members was unusually small. The report by Mr Gordon, auditor from the Scottish Wholesale Society, bore high testimony to the excellent condition of the Ardrossan Society's books. The quarterly report and balance sheet showed that the cash drawings for the thirteen weeks had amounted to £9367 11s 8d, an increase over the corresponding quarter of last year of £1350 3s 4d. The net profits for the quarter after allowing for interest on share and loan capital, amounted to £1374, allowing a dividend on purchases of 3s and 1s 6d per £ to members and non-members respectively. During the quarter, the membership has increased by forty-eight, a considerable proportion of the new members being residents of Saltcoats. There are now 963 members on the roll. The following were elected to the Board of Management - Messrs A Brodie, J Armour, J Travers and H Hickey. Donations of £1 were given to the Cooperative Festival Fund and the Ardrossan Horticultural Society.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 August 1902

THE CORONATION OF KING EDWARD
If the celebrations in Ardrossan of the King's crowning (on 9 August 1902) had in the nature of it anything unique, it was the simplicity thereof. Decorations only distinguished the day. There was no official celebration, nothing in the nature of sports or of a procession or of a banquet or of a treat to the poor. Ardrossan modestly stood back. It thrust itself not forward amongst the townships which sought demonstratively to express their loyalty - its modesty restrained it. It refrained from any outburst of impulsive zeal and in this aspect of its official inactivity, probably Ardrossan stands alone. To be sure, the lack of demonstration, other than such demonstration as bunting may be said to make, was not attributable to any neglect on the part of the authorities for now months have passed since the Council made an articulate, if somewhat ineffectual, appeal for the wherewithal to celebrate the occasion fittingly. The response to that appeal is a matter best left undiscussed at this time of day though it were meet enough to recall the circumstances when Ardrossan's remissness in regard to Coronation rejoicings is the theme of scribes. With it all, however, Ardrossan did valiantly in the matter of flags. Those who came suddenly to town saw first, most probably, the gaiety of Princes Street. There, decorations were numerous enough and sufficiently beautiful to please the King's most rabidly loyal subject and they were tastefully arranged. Almost the whole of one side of the street was draped gorgeously in blue and white and gold and red and purple and maroon and here and there were gay scabbards overhead from eaves to eaves across the thoroughfare and from the tops of not a few building, ensigns and Union Jacks strained in their halyards in the breeze. The Town Hall was simply decorated. Gorgeous hangings were around it and all the windows of it were draped in brightly coloured cloths. The Bank of Scotland building was also decked out with drapery and flags and looking down Harbour Street, it was possible to see Stewart's Temperance Hotel was not behind hand in the matter of decorated exterior. The Eglinton Arms Hotel was also made conspicuous by the red, white and blue about its windows and the corner building opposite was very tastefully swathed in divers decorations. Many of the houses in Montgomerie Street displayed a profusion of flags. Kilmahew, of course, was very gaily decked. Its comparative isolation gave it the more imposing an appearance. At the Crescent, there was much to admire. Almost every house had a display of bunting, modest or magnificent, and it is not too much to say that in some cases, there was more flag than house, the buildings being almost obscured. There was comparatively little decoration about the Pavilion but the residences of Mr Leask, Mr Hogarth, Mr Porter, Mr Galloway and Mr Laughland were specially noticeable. Mr Leask, Mr Hogarth, Mr Galloway and Mr Laughland made use of flowers as well as flags in their respective schemes of decoration and it would be hard to say in which case the effort was the more successful, the display the most effective. Apart from these decorations, there was no outwards token of the loyalty of the Ardrossan people till on Monday evening (11 August 1902), a pyrotechnic display was given from Elsing House. That saved the situation for Ardrossan. A multitude of people gathered on the Green opposite the residence of Mr Porter about nine o'clock and it was not long thereafter when the first of the fireworks was set off. For two hours, the display continued with brief intervals and during that time, many fine rockets were despatched skyward. Sometimes, a bright white illumination lasted for some time when the house stood forth from the surrounding darkness seeming in its eugarniture of brilliant draperies, a sort of fairy palace. At eleven o'clock, the crowd gradually dispersed after a few words by Mr Mordue and the singing of God Save The King. The only other illuminations in Ardrossan were the big E R at the Pavilion and sundry coloured lights at and in the neighbourhood of the clock in Princes Street.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 15 August 1902

RAILWAY ACCIDENT
Ardrossan Harbour on Saturday evening (16 August 1902) was the scene of a railway accident which happily was not of a very serious nature. About nine o'clock, shunting operations were suspended on the Glasgow and South-Western railway to allow of the main line being kept clear for passenger traffic. Through some misunderstanding, the driver of a pug engine and goods trucks drove on to the line and failed to notice the Kilmarnock train which had been stopped between number one Harbour Cabin and Princes Street Station with the result that he crashed into the rear of it. A number of the passengers sustained a severe shock but all were able to proceed to their destination.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

ARDROSSAN BURGH COURT
On Monday (18 August 1902), before Provost Young and Bailie Hogarth, a vagrant was charged with having stolen five and a half heads of wool from a milliner's shop in Glasgow Street (shown below in the early 1900s) on Saturday (16 August 1902). A little girl gave evidence to the effect that while waiting in the shop on the day in question, the prisoner entered and lifted the wool from the shelf and then decamped. After drawing the attention of the shopkeeper to the act, both followed the woman into a close where the wool was subsequently found. After further evidence had been led, the woman was found guilty and sentenced to thirty days imprisonment. An old man aged 75 and residing in Saltcoats pleaded guilty to having been found drunk and incapable on Saturday afternoon (18 August 1902). He reminded the bench, amidst laughter, that it was Coronation Day then. The accused was dismissed with an admonition.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

TWO DAY TRIP FROM ARDROSSAN TO PORTRUSH
Excursionists taking the two day trip across to Portrush see a wonderful lot in that short time. Leaving Ardrossan any day at 10 am by the steamship Azalea or Cedar, they reach Portrush at 3.30 pm. After a turn round the town, an electric tram takes them to Dunluce Castle and the Giant's Causeway where they may spend an hour or better still remain overnight at one of the hotels there and car it to Carrick-a-rede, the famous rope bridge, returning to Portrush in time for the steamer. They will in this way cover 250 miles of most interesting scenery by land and sea at a small cost and return satisfied with their outing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

LAMP POST OR CYCLE POST?
The lamp in front of the Post Office in Princes Street is occasionally requisitioned as a substitute for a cycle stand. At one period on Saturday last (16 August 1902), there were no fewer than eleven machines resting against it.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

DRUNK FINED TEN SHILLINGS
A drunk who was making things lively in Ardrossan on Saturday night (16 August 1902) threatened to 'go for' a policeman. The result was that he appeared at the Burgh Court on Monday (18 August 1902) and was mulcted in the sum of 10s.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

FRENCHMAN LOSES £5
A Frenchman who lost £5 about Ardrossan Harbour one day last week tried to drown his sorrow in drink. For this, he was taken into custody and eventually was brought up at the Burgh Court. By this time, he had regained the lost money but with the fine of 5s he had to pay and the sum he             Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

GREVILLE VERNON FINDS SMALL DINGY
Yesterday morning (21 August 1902), the tug boat Greville Vernon picked up about five miles west of Ardrossan a small yacht's dingy with rowlocks, oars, anchor, boathook and a quantity of cable. The boat was half waterlogged but was otherwise in good condition. Presumably, it had drifted away from its moorings.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

ARDROSSAN TO PORTRUSH SERVICE CONTINUES
It is intended to continue the direct service of steamers between Ardrossan and Portrush until the end of September.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

FINES AT ARDROSSAN BURGH COURT
At Ardrossan Burgh Court on Monday (18 August 1902) before Provost Young, a labourer was charged with having on 9 August stolen a quantity of coal from a railway wagon in the harbour. In tendering a plea of not guilty, the accused said he found the coal in a wagon containing iron ore which he was unloading. As he was supposed to clear out the wagon, he intended taking the coal home. After evidence for the prosecution had been given, the charge was found proven and a penalty of £1 with the option of fourteen days imprisonment was inflicted. Three men were convicted of fighting and committing a breach of the peace on Saturday evening (18 August 1902). A fine of 14s was imposed on each, the alternative being ten days imprisonment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

ARDROSSAN PARISH POOR
The Clerk to the Parish Council has just issued his report on the poor for the year ending 15 May. The following is an abstract.
Registered poor on the roll at 15 May 1902 - 43 males, 93 females, 136 total, 69 dependants
The Registered poor are located as follows.
  Resident in the Parish - 15 females, 58 males, 71 total, 48 dependants
  Resident in other Parishes - 9 females, 15 males, 24 total, 19 dependants
  Resident in Poorhouse - 9 females, 6 males, 15 total, 2 dependants
  Lunatics in Asylums- 12 females, 12 males, 24 total, 0 dependants
  Lunatics boarded out - 0 females, 2 males, 2 total, 0 dependants
Of the total number of all classes chargeable at 15 May, 18 are children - 13 orphans, 4 separated and 1 deserted - compared with 15 orphans and 4 separated at 15 May 1901. The aliments paid weekly during the year to the registered outdoor poor amounted to £18 18s 6d as compared with £18 1s 6d for the previous year. There were 223 applications for relief made by 104 males and 119 females with 163 dependents. Of these applicants, 35 were born in the parish, 129 in other parts of Scotland, 5 in England, 51 in Ireland and 2 foreign. The applications of those resident in the parish were disposed of as follows - 48 received outdoor relief, 69 were offered poorhouse 54 accepting and 15 declining, 3 sent to asylums, 10 granted medical relief, 43 granted lodgings, 3 referred to other parishes, 6 refused, 4 withdrawn and 5 sent to parents.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

ANNUAL TRIP OF ARDROSSAN, SALTCOATS AND STEVENSTON MERCHANTS TO LOCHGOILHEAD ON THE NEPTUNE
There was a large company on the deck of the steamer Neptune as she left Ardrossan Pier on Wednesday morning (20 August 1902) on the popular excursion of local merchants. A fresh north-west breeze with a cold sting in it made a sheltered corner a desirable refuge but as compensation, there was a clear atmosphere, fleecy clouds high overhead and the peaks of Arran revealed in brilliant sunshine. Swiftly, the Neptune steamed along the Firth, passing the north end of Arran, the island of Inchmarnock and entering the Kyles of Bute. The hills afforded shelter from the wind and with smooth water and in sunshine, the beautiful scenery of this locality was witnessed under the most favourable circumstances. A white-sailed yacht occasionally glided past and there was a ripple of excitement as the Columba, Lord Of The Isles and the new turbine steamer King Edward came into view. Rothesay was reached somewhere about noon and a number of passengers landed there. Passing by numerous yachts at anchor in the bay, the Neptune proceeded on reaching Lochgoilhead at about 1.30. All went ashore and dispersed, some for hill climbing while others went round by the loch or explored the beautiful valleys. The return journey was commenced at 3 pm. Rothesay was reached at 4.45 pm and the steamer left again at 6.30. The stay at Rothesay was an agreeable break in the journey. The trip was altogether a most enjoyable one. There was some good singing, a band supplied music and the fore deck was utilised for dancing. On reaching Ardrossan about a quarter to eight, a special train conveyed the excursionists to their destinations. With so successful a trip, the arrangements of the committee, it need scarcely be added, gave the greatest satisfaction.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

ARDROSSAN SHIPBUILDING
The Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company have booked an order for a first-class coasting steamer to be built on behalf of a Glasgow firm. The same company recently booked orders for four vessels of a similar type.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 22 August 1902

MEN WE KNOW - FRANK BENNETT, AUCTIONEER

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 August 1902

PRESENTATION TO SERGEANT McDOWALL
On Tuesday evening (26 August 1902), Sergeant McDowall, who returned the other day form active service in South Africa, was the guest of the Sergeants' Mess at supper in the Drill Hall. In accordance with Sergeant McDowall's wishes, the gathering was limited and came off very quietly. Sergeant-Major Wyllie occupied the chair and Captain Murchie and Lieutenant Stewart were also present. After and excellent supper, the chairman called upon Captain Murchie to make the presentation which consisted of a very handsome dressing case. In presenting the gift to Sergeant McDowall, Captain Murchie explained how the present function would have taken place before the Sergeant's departure for South Africa had he been able to get away from Woolwich, as did most of the others, before embarkation. Captain Murchie then expressed the pleasure they all felt in seeing the Sergeant back amongst them again after his trying experiences at the front. Replying Sergeant McDowall thanked his comrades for the gift and Captain Murchie for the kind words with which he presented it. He then gave a brief narrative of his experiences in South Africa, relating how he had been wounded and taken prisoner and then released. Concluding, the specially thanked Captain Murchie for the testimonial he had given him, a testimonial which had the means of his retaining his Volunteer rank of Sergeant in the active service corps.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 August 1902

ARDROSSAN MAN APPOINTED SANITARY COLLECTOR AT KROONSTAD
Mr John Adams, younger son of Mr John Adams, burgh collector, Ardrossan, has been appointed Sanitary Inspector at Kroonstad.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 August 1902

ARDROSSAN PASSENGERS GREET THE KING ON HIS VISIT TO SCOTLAND
Among the first to greet the King on his arrival in Scottish waters on Tuesday last (26 August 1902) was the steamship Azalea having on board a large number of passengers from Ardrossan to Portrush. The vessel had been taken five miles off her usual course in the hope of meeting the Royal Yacht and everyone on board was delighted with the comparatively near view obtained of the King and Queen. A banner had been prepared with the words upon it 'Welcome To Scotland' and this was held out by two of the lady passengers. The Azalea saluted and the King lifted his cap in response to the cheers of passengers and crew.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 August 1902

A MEAN ARTIFICE
At Ardrossan Burgh Court on Tuesday (26 August 1902), a vagrant was convicted of soliciting alms from street passengers in Princes Street on the previous evening (25 August 1902). It appeared that the accused when accosted by a policeman had his right arm bound up in a sling and was singing hymns. Not being satisfied with the story told him regarding a shocking railway accident in which the accused, needless to say, played a very important part, the policeman led him off to the police station where it was discovered that the bandages were only put on to attract the attention of sympathetic passers-by. For a period of thirty days, the authorities in Ayr Prison will provide the man with less congenial work than hymn singing.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 August 1902

ARDROSSAN FLOWER SHOW
The Ardrossan Horticultural Society held their annual Fruit and Flower Show in the Drill Hall on Thursday (28 August 1902). Notwithstanding the a universal complaints made by the horticulturalists as to the unsatisfactory nature of the season, the entries for the local show were almost up to the average. Probably the show tables - both that of Mr Laughland and Mr Russell - were never worthier of sincere admiration, Each was a veritable 'dream', in feminine parlance, and the arrangement of both was highly creditable as examples of good taste. Mr Laughland's composition of palms and ferns and hydrangeas and other flowering plants was particularly admirable. Another noteworthy exhibit was the display of roses and cactus dahlias by Mr Hugh Dickson, florist, of Belfast. The roses were wonderfully fine from the dark Victor Hugos and Duchess Of Bedfords to the most delicate tea roses. The rest of the show, the less eye-catching plants, the fruit and vegetables, were all worthy of examination.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 August 1902

INADEQUATE LIGHT AT ARDROSSAN FLOWER SHOW
Visitors to Ardrossan Flower Show on Thursday evening week (28 August 1902) complained of inadequate light and of groups of talkers preventing free access to the stands.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

MEN WE KNOW - CAPTAIN R SHIELDS

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

ARDROSSAN FREE PRESBYTERY
The United Free Presbytery of Ardrossan met on Tuesday forenoon in the Hall of Saint John's United Free church, the Reverend Mr McGilchrist, moderator, in the chair. The minutes of the last meeting were read and adopted. Reverend Mr McIntyre reported that the committee deputed to draw up an address for presentation to the King on the occasion of his recovery had given the address to the Clerk who, he understood, had forwarded it to the proper quarter. The Clerk, Reverend R B Andrew, said that a reply had been received from the Secretary for Scotland, Lord Balfour of Burleigh, acknowledging receipt of the address and also intimating that it would be laid before the King in due course. The Clerk said they had been unable therefore to fix a date for the ordination in Kilbirnie West Church owing to the schedule not having been forwarded in time. Mr Ross and he, as the deputation appointed by the Presbytery, met the congregation of the church who seemed unwilling to give £160 as a minimum stipend. A letter from the United Free church authorities in Edinburgh was read granting leave to proceed with the ordination and fixing the salary at a minimum of £160.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB - ANNUAL TOURNAMENT
Under most excellent weather auspices, the annual tournament, confined to members, was opened on Saturday last (30 August 1902). The entries this year did not come up to those of former years, there being only forty-eight names given in. This fact did not in any way rob the tournament of any of the enthusiasm of those taking part as each of the games was fought out to the finish with a keenness which was easily discernible. A pleasing feature this year is the number of members who have fought their way into the first sixteen, a position which they had not previously attained. The prizes which are being completed for are, as usual, provided by members and friends of the club.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

CONSTABLE STRATH MOVES FROM ARDROSSAN TO PRESTWICK
Constable Strath of the Ardrossan Police Force has been transferred to the Prestwick Constabulary.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 29 August 1902

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY EVENING CONTINUATION CLASSES
The youths of the district will have noted that the Evening Continuation Classes in Ardrossan Academy open on Monday week, 15 September.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

DUCHESS OF HAMILTON LATE
The Duchess of Hamilton 'funked' the heavy sea on Wednesday afternoon (3 September 1902), delaying her journey to Arran till the evening.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

NEW EVANGELICAL UNION CHURCH TO BE BUILT
At a meeting of Ardrossan Evangelical Union congregation on Monday (1 September 1902), it was resolved to proceed with the erection of new church on their site in Glasgow Street. The contracts amount to over £3000.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

BUSY TRAINS
Monday morning (1 September 1902) saw an exodus of excursionists from Ardrossan and Saltcoats. So crowded were the railway trains that third class ticket holders had no compunction in entering first class carriages.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

EVANGELICAL UNION CHURCH CHOIR EXCURSION
The choir of Ardrossan Evangelical Union Church held their annual excursion on Wednesday (3 September 1902). The venue was Ayr but although the weather was of the worst description, the trippers found means to make the outing a success.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

TENT MISSION MOVES TO HALL
What was to have been a Tent Mission under the auspices of the Ardrossan Young Men's Christian Association has been changed to a Hall Mission. Arrangements had been made for the erection of a tent belonging to the Ayrshire Christian Union in the old school playground in Glasgow Street but the storm of Wednesday (3 September 1902) played havoc with the Tent, then stationed at Whitletts, rendering it of no use. The meetings will consequently be held in the Association's Hall.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY CONTINUATION CLASSES
The following are the results of the Science and Art Examinations in April and May.
   Freehand Drawing
      First Class - William Stevenson
      Second Class - Annie Adams, James Conn, William Conn, Alexander Crawford, Jeanie Hughes, Maggie Milne and Margaret Taylor
   Model Drawing
      Second Class - Annie Adams, James Conn, Hawthorn Lauchlan and Flora Paton
   Blackboard Drawing
      First Class - Annie McRoberts,
      Second Class - Annie Adams, Maggie Campbell, Alexander Crawford, Maggie Milne, Flora Paton, Isabella Watson, Agnes Wells and Marion Wilson
   Geometrical Drawing
      First Class - William Stevenson
      Second Class - Catherine Cunningham
   Machine Construction - Advanced Stage
      First Class - William Stevenson
      Second Class - James Fullarton, John McGill and William Smith
   Building Construction - Advanced Stage
      Second Class - Andrew Service
   Chemistry - Elementary Stage
      First Class - Jeanie Hughes
      Second Class - Mary Gates
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 September 1902

NEW UNIONIST CLUB BUILDINGS

The above illustration gives a more or less adequate conception of the new Unionist Buildings which have been erected on the west side of Princes Street, Ardrossan, between the Glasgow and South-Western Railway station and the Baths and which are to be opened today (12 September 1902) by the honourable Thomas Cochrane, member of parliament. There can be little doubt that the new club rooms constitute a marked improvement in this part of the town. The architecture of the buildings is pleasing. The walls are of brick, roughcast and finished with redstone dressings while the roof, to have an artistic ensemble presumably, is of green slates. The rooms which consist of a billiard room for three tables, a reading room with bay window to Princes Street, a committee room, a lavatory and three apartments for the janitor - are conveniently arranged, all finished neatly and all heated by a system of hot water pipes. Mr Hugh Thomson, Saltcoats, was the architect for the building, his design having been selected in a competition. The following were the contractors - John Inglis, builder; Robert Frew, joiner; John Lambert, plumber and heating engineer; James Allison, slater; Murray and McCallum, plasterers and John Gilfillan, painter.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 September 1902

ARDROSSAN SCHOOL BOARD
The monthly meeting of Ardrossan School Board was held on Tuesday afternoon (9 September 1902). The members present were Mr Shearer, chairman; Reverend Mr Mordue; Reverend Rossie Brown; Reverend Mr McGilchrist and Provost Guthrie. A few applications from pupils desirous of being exempted from further attendance at school were considered. With one exception, exemption orders were granted. Mr Shearer gave notice of motion to the effect that all defaulters or applicants for exemption appear in future at a special meeting and not at the statutory monthly meeting. The officer reported that there were two cases of scarlet fever in Ardrossan and six in Saltcoats and as a consequence, twenty-one children were absent from school. The number of pupils on the rolls of the schools at date was 2280.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 September 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ANNUAL INSPECTION OF ARDROSSAN WATER WORKS
The annual inspection of Ardrossan Water Works by the Provost, Magistrates and Town Council took place yesterday (11 September 1902). It had been arranged that, besides the ordinary routine of inspection, a ceremony should take place at the site of the new works but owing to the engineer's inability to be present, this part of the programme had to be abandoned. At two o'clock, the inspecting party set out from Kilmahew, driving direct to the new works at Busbie Muir (shown below in 2008) where operations have already been commenced. Arrived there, the company, after remarking on the admirable nature of the site, adjourned to one of the offices which have been temporarily erected on the scene of operations and, over cake and wine, made and hearkened to some timeous oratory.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 September 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN GOLFER BREAKS RECORD
Mr Fleming of Ardrossan established a new record for Bogside Golf Course on Saturday last (6 September 1902) with a sensational score of 73 which beats the former record held by Mr W Reid by one stroke. Mr Fleming played with one of the new American Haskell balls.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 September 1902

NORWEGIAN SAILOR FINED FOR ASSAULT
On Monday evening (8 September 1902), a Norwegian sailor employed on the Peter Jebsen which is lying at Ardrossan Harbour committed and assault on the first officer of that vessel. At the Burgh Court on the following day, he was fined £1 with the option of fourteen days imprisonment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 September 1902

AMERICAN SAILOR FALLS INTO ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
An American sailor named Charles Smith, employed on board the steamship Cousins Arbib, fell into Ardrossan Harbour on Monday evening (8 September 1902). Fortunately in falling, he caught hold of a rope and managed to keep himself afloat until some labourers, who had witnessed the mishap, came to his rescue.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 September 1902

THE LASCARS ARRIVE IN ARDROSSAN
The Lascar crew of the Clan Cameron, having already achieved a mead of notoriety by going out on strike in Glasgow, made Tuesday (9 September 1902) night hideous after their arrival in Ardrossan. It may be proper to speak of the quiet-footed Lascar but the mouth of him is indeed what the French call horriplatante.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 September 1902
According to Wikipedia, a Lascar was a sailor or militiaman from the Indian subcontinent or other countries east of the Cape of Good Hope, employed on European ships from the sixteenth century to the beginning of the twentieth century.

PUBLIC SALE OF HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

MEN WE KNOW - JAMES MUTTER OF MEIKLELAUGHT

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

STEAMER GOES ASHORE
The steamer White Head, a frequent visitor at Ardrossan, has gone ashore three miles to the south of Tobermory.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

TRIP TO AYR RACECOURSE
On Wednesday (17 September 1902), a number of Ardrossan and Saltcoats residents made Ayr Racecourse the venue for the day.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY EVENING CLASSES
Students were numerous at the opening of the evening classes in Ardrossan Academy on Monday (15 September 1902). More may still enrol in all departments.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

ARDROSSAN MODEL YACHT CLUB LAST RACE OF SEASON
The Model Yacht Club have the last race of the season tomorrow (20 September 1902) when competition for the Club Cup presented by Commodore Captain Shields will take place.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

ARDROSSAN BOWLING GREEN CLOSED
Ardrossan Bowling Green will be closed for the season on Saturday week (27 September 1902) and on 7 October, the members and friends will sup together in the Eglinton Arms Hotel.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

BARON STEAMERS
The Baron fleet of steamers, so successfully managed by Messrs Hugh Hogarth and Sons, consists of nine vessels, all named after Scottish nobles holding the Baron degree in our peerage.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

ARDROSSAN HOLIDAY
Fifty country towns and burghs as well as Ardrossan went on holiday on Wednesday last (17 September 1902). That is probably why the Rue-de-Sauchiehall had such an overcrowded appearance from morning onwards.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

SPECIAL SERVICE OF PSALMS
We understand that, at a special service of psalms to be held in Saint John's, Ardrossan on Sunday evening (20 September 1902), the tunes sung will be taken from a collection used in Scottish churches early in the last century and containing many of the once favourite 'repeating' tunes.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

ARDROSSAN BURGH COURT
At Ardrossan Burgh Court on Saturday (13 September 1902), a labourer residing in Montgomerie Lane was convicted on a charge of committing a breach of the peace in his father's house that morning. Nine previous convictions having been recorded against him for similar offences, a sentence of twenty-one days imprisonment was passed. On Monday (15 September 1902), before Provost Young, a hackney carriage driver pleaded not guilty to a breach of the Burgh By-laws. The indictment bore that the accused allowed his horse and vehicle to stand in Princes Street on Thursday (11 September 1902) for a longer time than was necessary in picking up passengers. After evidence had been led, an agent for the accused stated that the prosecution had altogether failed to prove the charge inasmuch as that the indictment had not read 'Princes Street, Ardrossan'. For all he knew, the offence might have been committed in Princes Street, Edinburgh. The court repelled the objection, however, and the charge was found. A fine of 7s 6d was imposed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

ARDROSSAN PEACEBREAKERS
To commit a breach of the peace, either in their own house or outside, seems to be a favourable form of diversion with some people in Ardrossan. No fewer than five persons have been charged with the offence at the Burgh Court within the past fortnight.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

IN MEMORIAM - REVEREND ROBERT MORDUE, ARDROSSAN
The Reverend Robert Mordue, Rector of Saint Andrew's Episcopal Church, Ardrossan died at his residence on Wednesday night (17 September 1902). To many, this announcement will come as a shock. Less than a week ago, the reverend gentleman was moving in and out among his people, to all appearance in his wonted state of health. It was on Sabbath morning (14 September 1902) that he was seized by the illness to which he succumbed four days later. In a very literal sense, it may be said, Mr Mordue died with the dust of battle on him. His last sermon, on the text 'Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory' - words, which have in the light of after events, a strange significance, had been written and was only waiting the living voice. The pause, indeed, between the summons and the answer was but long enough to allow of those near to him to give further proof of their love and affection. He died in harness and his record of work done is clean and clear. Mr Mordue was born at Killingworth, Northumberland forty-nine years ago. He was the eldest of a family of twelve and early in life, revealed the bent of his mind. After spending some years at a school in Durham, he entered Edinburgh University and from there passed into the Theological College. In 1882, he was appointed Incumbent to Saint Andrew's Church so that twenty-one years of his comparatively brief life have been spent in Ardrossan. Saint Andrew's was his first and only charge and the work he accomplished on its behalf in these years testifies better than words can do to the conscientiousness and thoroughness with which the Rector has discharged the responsibilities solemnly laid on him by the Right Reverend, the Bishop of Glasgow and Galloway. It was no light task for a young man of twenty-eight years. A debt rested upon the church, the building was lacking in many of the accessories which are reckoned helpful to worship and there was no parsonage. In 1887 and again in 1895, bazaars were successfully carried through and it is largely to Mr Mordue's own credit that he had the satisfaction in later years of seeing church and parsonage of debt. We can recall the pardonable pride with which he was wont to refer to the generosity and enthusiasm of 'my people' in supporting him in his efforts. It was also due to Mr Mordue that an Episcopal Church costing £800 has been planted in Dalry and a Mission Station established in Irvine. For several years after his settlement in Ardrossan, he visited these places and also West Kilbride on Sunday afternoons for the purpose of conducting religious services. While the welfare of Saint Andrew's Church and its congregation had the chief place in Mr Mordue's interests, he was not unmindful of the claims which the community had upon his special qualifications as an educationalist. He joined the School Board some six years ago and in numerous ways, he has given proof of his peculiar fitness for the work. He had high ideals of what was essential to qualify our boys and girls for the battle of life and he possessed in an eminent degree, the gift to carry out his ideals, even to minute details. After the Academy was transferred from a committee of subscribers to the School Board, Mr Mordue took in hand its reorganisation and equipment and the rapid progress which it has made as an educational centre, not only in local esteem but in County and Education Department appreciation, is largely the result of Mr Mordue's efforts. His death is a distinct loss to the educational interests of the community. In many other ways, Mr Mordue made friends. He was genial to everybody, leal-hearted to those who shared his inner thoughts, and 'un bon camarade' to his associates, all of whom will cherish pleasant memories of 'the parson'. Mrs and Miss Mordue have the sincere sympathy of the public in their great loss. Today, Friday (19 September 1902), an opportunity is offered in the Church to all who may wish to look for the last time upon the face of the departed. The interment takes place on Saturday afternoon (20 September 1902) and will be public. A choral service will be held in the Church at three o'clock in the afternoon after which the funeral cortege will proceed to the cemetery in the following order - Choir and Officiating Clergy, Hearse, Relatives and Members of Vestry, Cadet Corps in Uniform, Pupils of Ardrossan Academy, Teachers of School Board, General Public and Private Carriages.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 September 1902

THE LATE MR MORDUE'S FUNERAL AND SPECIAL SERVICES
Neither in Saltcoats nor Ardrossan has there ever been a sadder day than Saturday (20 September 1902). Truly enough, both towns may be said to have mourned on that day and the grim greyness of the sky seemed to suggest that Nature herself was in sympathy with the day's doings. On that day, they buried the remains of Robert Mordue. Sad thought it was that, less than a week before, this man for whom the best part of two communities mourned sincerely, had walked, healthful and energetic upon the fair earth that was now ready to receive what death had left of him. Well might the sky lower sombrely, well might the very air seem grief-laden, chill and disconsoling! By half past three of the afternoon, a great congregation had assembled in Saint Andrew's Church. Every class of the community was represented in that congregation, every religious sect. Here, surely, were proof enough that the dead had been a reputable man, a man beloved, a man favouring no special class of society, a big-hearted man, withal a man of God. To be in that church on that day was indeed to be impressed. For all the crowd, quietness, nigh absolute stillness prevailed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

ARDROSSAN AND PORTRUSH SERVICE
The steamship Azalea makes her closing run for the season on Saturday first (20 September 1902), returning from Portrush on Monday (22 September 1902). Special excursion fares are announced for the trip.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902

MEN WE KNOW - C J SHEARER

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902

ARDROSSAN HARBOUR BUSY
An unusually large number of sailing craft have been in Ardrossan recently.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902

SIR GEORGE WHITE PASSES THROUGH ARDROSSAN
Sir George White (shown below in 1900) of Ladysmith fame passed through Ardrossan on Wednesday night (24 September 1902) on his way from Balmoral to Belfast.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902
More information on Sir George White can be seen by clicking here and here.

FIRST SOD OF BUSBIE WATERWORKS CUT
On the occasion of the cutting of the first sod of Busbie Waterworks on Monday last (22 September 1902), Provost Young, Ardrossan, was presented with a handsome silver salver by Mr W R Copland, engineer, for the undertaking.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902

ARDROSSAN MAN BUYS SALTCOATS PUBLIC HOUSE
We understand Mr Matthew Back, Ardrossan, has purchased the public house in Saltcoats known as Klondyke from the trustees of Mrs Lundie. Provide a transfer of licence is granted, he will take possession on 3 October.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902

GLASGOW MAN APPEARS AT ARDROSSAN COURT
A Glasgow man was arrested at Ardrossan on his way to Ireland and charged at the Police Court with making reckless use of firearms. He travelled by the Caledonian Railway from Glasgow and when near Neilston, he fired several shots from a six-chamber revolver. They man also maliciously cut the strap of the carriage window. Bailie Hogarth sent him to prison for thirty days without the option of a fine.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902

SALVATION ARMY TORCHLIGHT PARADE
The junior soldiers of the Ardrossan branch of the Salvation Army had a torchlight parade through several of the streets of the burgh on Wednesday night (24 September 1902), headed by Captain Webber. They afterwards marched to the hall in Princes Lane where a programme of part songs and recitations was gone through to the enjoyment of those present.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 September 1902

ANTI-VACCINATION MEETING
It is proposed to hold an anti-vaccination meeting in Ardrossan or Saltcoats on Friday 17 October.

MINISTER'S SON'S PUBLICATION
We are indebted to Mr David McCall, son of the much esteemed minister of Ardrossan New Parish Church for a copy of an interesting publication - the Annual Report of the Department of Education of the North-West Territories, Canada.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 October 1902

RUNAWAY HORSE
Considerable excitement was caused in Ardrossan on Saturday evening (27 September 1902) by a horse which had broken loose from a vehicle, bolting through the streets. The animal belonged to a local cab-hirer and was being driven along the North Shore when it became uncontrollable. After struggling to get free, it broke the shaft of the vehicle and galloped back towards Montgomerie Street, leaving the driver on the roadside with the wreckage of the machine. On reaching the south end of Princes Street, the horse broke through the gates at the railway crossing which at the time were closed and galloped on towards Saltcoats. When opposite the Roman Catholic Chapel in Ardrossan Road, its feet became entangled amongst the trappings and the horse fell exhausted and bleeding. Many people and children narrowly escaped being knocked down by the animal in mad flight.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 October 1902

ARDROSSAN BOYS' BRIGADE TO BE RESUSICATED?
A proposal is afoot to resurrect the Ardrossan Company of the Boys' Brigade and, with the view of testing public feeling on the matter, a meeting of all interested in the movement is called for Monday evening first (6 October 1902). Everything is at hand but enthusiasm. There are boys to be drilled, carbines to drill with and a good hall to drill in. What is lacking is a committee of local gentlemen, convinced that the Brigade is a means towards a good end who are prepared to take a personal interest in the weekly meetings.
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 October 1902

SERIOUS ACCIDENT AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
A youth named John Brackenridge was the victim of a serious accident which occurred at Ardrossan Harbour on Saturday night (27 September 1902). Along with some companions, he was waiting the arrival of the Arran steamer and while amusing himself in a railway goods van, he failed to observe a train load of wagons which were approaching. Brackenridge was knocked down on the rails and a wagon passed over his arm, almost severing it from the body. After he received medical attention, he was removed to Kilmarnock Infirmary.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 October 1902

ARDROSSAN LIBERAL ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING
The annual general meeting of the members of this association was held last Friday (26 September 1902) in the Reading Room of the Club. There was a fair turnout. Mr C J Shearer, president, occupied the chair. Mr Robert Bradley, secretary and treasurer, read minutes of the last general meeting and also the report and statement and financial statement for the year just closed. The report and statement were unanimously adopted and Mr Bradley received a suitable acknowledgement for his service in the capacity of secretary and treasure. The following office-bearers were appointed for the ensuing season - honorary president, Mr Joseph Russell, Seafield; president, Mr C J Shearer; vice-presidents, Messrs John Allan and William Tannock; secretary and treasurer, Mr Robert Bradley and a committee of twenty. Delegates to North Ayrshire Central Liberal Association are Messrs C J Shearer, William Guthrie, J Allan, W Tannock, G O Baird, W Gilroy, R Bradley, R Craig and J Barclay. A vote of thanks to the chairman closed the meeting. The new session has been entered on and those desiring to become members can be enrolled with Mr Bradley, secretary, 157 Glasgow Street or at the Club.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 October 1902

ADDER END OF SEASON DANCE
According to popular report, the dance which marked the end of the Adder's season at Ardrossan had an effect even more than usually demoralising on the heads of some of the ladies who attended it.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 3 October 1902

NO ADDER DANCE
We understand there was no dance in connection with the end of the Adder's season. The gathering which gave rise to a paragraph in last week's issue had no official countenance whatever.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

SUICIDE IN ARDROSSAN
Shortly after six o'clock yesterday morning, an employee of the Harbour Company discovered the body of a man on the shore between The Inches and Ardrossan Harbour. Lying by his side was a six-chambered revolver, five of the chambers of which were loaded, the other containing an empty cartridge. Information having been lodged with the police, they made an examination of the body when they found that a bullet had penetrated the heart. The deceased, who appeared to be about thirty-five years of age, was respectably dressed. Later in the day, the body was identified as that of a man belonging to Newmilns. It appears that the deceased man was a commercial traveller but for some time previous to his committing suicide had been out of work. The body was subsequently taken charge of by relatives.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

MEN WE KNOW - PROVOST YOUNG, ARDROSSAN

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

TRANSFER OF LICENCE
The transfer of Klondyke public house licence was granted to Mr Hugh Beck, Ardrossan at a Justice of the Peace Court held in Saltcoats on Friday (3 October 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

GREETIN' MEETIN'
We are requested to state that there is a very strong feeling in town that the Council should have their annual meeting with the ratepayers before nomination day. The sooner the better. The greetin' meetin' is on Monday night (13 October 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

HARBOUR EMPLOYEE INJURED
An employee of the Ardrossan Shipbuilding Company, while at work on a vessel in the Dry Dock on Tuesday (7 October 1902), had one of his eyes severely injured by chips from a bolt he was engaged cutting striking it. He was removed to the Glasgow Eye Infirmary.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

MR ROBERT WYLLIE RETURNS TO ARDROSSAN
Mr Robert Wyllie returned to Ardrossan last night (9 October 1902) from South Africa. It is known to his more intimate friends that he rendered good service to his country during the South African war as one of the Royal Horse Artillery. Since he left Ardrossan, Mr Wyllie has met with a number of novel experiences and is certain to receive a hearty welcome.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

MUNNOCH RESERVOIR
The Munnoch road has always been a popular resort of Ardrossan people in their Saturday afternoon and Sunday walks. Additional interest is now found in the operations of the contractor for the new waterworks. Boundary fencing, the removal of turf and other signs of progress enable the visitor to form some idea of the position and size of the reservoir that is to be there, some two or three years hence. A clachan of navvies' houses and workshops now occupy a place on the roadside.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

ARDROSSAN BOWLING CLUB ANNUAL SUPPER
The Ardrossan Bowling Club supped on Tuesday evening (7 October 1902) in the Eglinton Arms Hotel. The function, whereat the presentation of prizes won on the green during the season customarily takes place, is always a merry one and the turnout on Tuesday night augured well for an evening's enjoyment. The doughty president of the Club, Captain Torrance, occupied the chair and Messrs Tom Wallace and Mr F G Gillies acted as croupiers. A very excellent supper was served which over, a comprehensive toast-list was entered upon by the chairman who voiced the usual loyal sentiments. To the toast of the Army, Navy and Reserve Forces, Mr John Lambert replied briefly and aptly then Mr Tom Wallace, eloquent as ever, proposed The Ardrossan Bowling Club.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

HERRING FISHING NEAR ARDROSSAN
This week vast shoals of herring appear to have taken up their abode in the waters in the immediate vicinity of Ardrossan. Close on two hundred smacks have been engaged fishing between the Horse Island and the Cumbraes and on the last two days, the harbour at Ardrossan has been well-nigh filled with fishing boats which spend the day in shelter after having discharged their night's catch. During the day, numbers of sea-booted, bronzed fishermen, many of them talking in the Gaelic, walk about the streets thus giving an unaccustomed appearance to the town. Great quantities of fish are taken in at Winton Pier, salted, packed and railed to Glasgow and elsewhere. We understand it is something like eighteen years since a like fishing took place off Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902

THE EXPLOSION AT ARDEER - A FATALITY AND ITS EFFECT
At twenty minutes after five on Tuesday evening (7 October 1902), a loud report startled almost everyone in the greater part of North Ayrshire, filling them with apprehension of a calamity. In the neighbourhood of Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston, people instantly turned their eyes in the direction of Messrs Nobel's Ardeer factory and the appearance of a dense convolving cloud of smoke over the site of the factory confirmed the fear that a disaster of some sort had there taken place. Straightaway, many people set out from the three towns towards the explosives works. From Stevenston, in particular, where the majority of the explosives workers reside, a vast crowd of all ages hurried towards the gate of the factory, eager to learn what sort of accident had happened, where and how, if possible, it had taken place and whom it had victimised. None knew how many might be killed and not a few were the hearts that beat quickly in sore apprehension as the crowd hurried to receive the news. There was much relief when it was announced that only one man had been killed. Sympathy took the place of fear in the breasts of most and compassion for the relatives of the one victim was everywhere sincerely expressed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 10 October 1902
This is the opening paragraph of a longer report.

NEW EVANGELICAL UNION CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, ARDROSSAN

The above is an illustration of the new Evangelical Union Congregational Church about to be erected in Glasgow Street, Ardrossan, for the congregation of the Reverend George Sharpe. Since Mr Sharp's ministry commenced, the attendance in the present church (shown below in Bute Place in 1974) has been so large that the old building has proved quite inadequate and in other ways, is very unsuitable for the congregation. It was, therefore, some time ago resolved to purchase the Old School in Glasgow Street. The site had a frontage of 63 feet and a depth of 156 feet from back to front. The school had been built on the rear portion of the ground thus enabling the new church to be built on the front playground and the school connected with it to as to be utilised as a meeting hall and for Sabbath School purposes. The church to be erected will seat 500 on the ground floor inclusive of the space set aside for the choir and about 170 will be accommodated in the end gallery to be erected at a later date when funds permit. The building is to be 43 feet 6 inches wide inside the walls and 82 feet 6 inches long and there will be a Ladies Room, Manager's Room, Vestry and other accommodation. The building is to be roofed with arched steel principals having a height from the floor of 35 feet. The hewn work of the front elevation will be of stone from Ballochmyle Quarry while the rear part of the structure, being hidden by surrounding tenements, is to be absolutely plain. The architect of the new building is Mr T P Marwick, 43 York Place, Edinburgh and the following are the successful offerers - mason, Quinton Wilson; joiner, Robert Barbour; plumber, J Lambert; slaters, J Hogarth and Company; plasterers, Murray and McCallum; steel roof and standards, P and W McLennan; asphalt, Adam Loch; glaziers, G Lindsay and Company and seating, Bennet Furnishing Company. The estimated cost exceeds £3000. A commencement will be made immediately with the erection of the church.

                        Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

ARDROSSAN BOYS BRIGADE RESTARTS
Ardrossan boys are expected to muster in force in the Drill Hall tonight (17 October 1902) at 7.30. The Brigade makes a start.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB
The Camera Club is now in full winter swing. On 24 October, a demonstration will be given on Platinotype printing and on 3 November, the president will give his lecture on Switzerland, illustrated with over one hundred lantern views. Through the kindness of Mr Wallace, chemist, the Club have an enlarging lantern on their premises.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

STORM-BOUND VESSEL AT ARDROSSAN
Early on Wednesday morning (15 October 1902), shortly after the gale which passed over the western part of Scotland had sprung up, the Nova Scotian ship, Savona, bound for Glasgow with timber, anchored about two miles off Saltcoats. The vessel, whilst coming up the firth, mistook Stevenston furnaces for the Cumbrae Head Light and only when they were within two miles of the shore did the crew notice the error. During the day, the vessel was in much danger of slipping its anchor but the Ardrossan lifeboat lay alongside to render assistance if necessary until the storm had abated somewhat. In the afternoon, three of the Savona's crew were taken ashore in the lifeboat.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

ARDROSSAN CASTLE CURLING CLUB
The annual general meeting of the Ardrossan Castle Curling Club was held in the Eglinton Hotel last Friday evening (10 October 1902), Mr Alexander wood, president, in the chair. The auditor's report was submitted and books and funds were found to be in a satisfactory condition. The following office-bearers were elected - patron, The Earl of Eglinton; patroness, The Countess of Eglinton; president, Alexander Wood; vice-president, John Hogarth; chaplain, Reverend J D McCall; representatives, John Crawford and Alexander Wood; secretary and treasurer, William Bryce; committee, James Bell, George O Baird, William Craig, R Torrance, William Brown, D Gemmill, John Maclean, John Crawford, D B Haining, James Goodwin, James Stewart and John Hogarth; skips, John Maclean, John Crawford, William Brown, William Craig, James Goodwin, R Torrance, D H Haining and William Bryce.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

ARDROSSAN PARISH COUNCIL
The monthly meeting of Ardrossan Parish Council was held in the Ardrossan Chambers, Glasgow Street on Tuesday evening (14 October 1902). The Inspector was instructed to invite offers for the supplying of coals to those receiving relief. Bailie Miller moved that a committee be formed to carry out arrangements in connection with the building of new central Chambers. The Chairman said the Council had never agreed what sort of building they were to have erected. Councillor Duff seconded the motion. Councillor Gilroy suggested a committee composed of the whole Council be formed. Councillor Harvey objected to the proposal. He would not be a member of the committee. Councillor Bell, amidst laughter, moved that they appoint no committee. Councillor Tannock said he would have been pleased to second Mr Bell's amendment but he was afraid they had gone too far now to retract. Councillor Gilroy suggested that Councillor Bell add the words 'in the meantime' to his amendment. Eventually, it was agreed to appoint a committee.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

MUNICIPAL ELECTION
The retiring councillors in Ardrossan are William Young, Provost; John Hogarth, Bailie and F A P Bennett. In Saltcoats, they are Alexander Guthrie, Provost; Robert Blakely, Bailie and William Mather. The election day is Tuesday 4 November. Nominations require to be lodged by Tuesday 28 October and withdrawals are optional up till Thursday 30 October. Ardrossan voters' roll contains 1294 names of which 248 are females. Saltcoats has a total based on last year's register of 2063 voters, 673 of whom are females.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
There were no valedictory speeches at the meeting of Ardrossan Council on Monday night (13 October 1902) - at least not in the prescience of the reporters. Later on, we understand, Provost Young indicated that his services might again be placed at the command of the ratepayers - services, it need hardly be said, of considerable practicable value in view of the large expenditure, between £25000 and 30000, involved in the new gas and water undertakings. Mr Bennett will not return to the Council in the meantime. He retires solely on the score of health. Municipal work is congenial to him and by his years of office, Mr Bennett has placed the town under a debt of gratitude. We but express the hope of all the ratepayers that in the early future, he will again occupy a seat at the Council table. Baillie Hogarth has yet to intimate his decision. We trust he will allow himself to be nominated and that the town will continue to have the benefit of his counsel and guidance.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

HARBOUR-MASTER GIVES PARTY
On Monday evening (6 October 1902), Captain Shields, harbour-master, entertained the children of the harbour officials to tea and music. A party numbering about forty sat down to tea and forty people never enjoyed themselves more heartily. The occasion was by way of celebrating in anticipatory fashion the forthcoming wedding of Miss Shields.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

CAPTAIN SHIELDS' DAUGHTER MARRIES COLLECTOR OF CUSTOMS
Yesterday (16 October 1902), Miss Shields, daughter of the genial and popular Harbour-Master at Ardrossan, become the wife of the Collector of Customs, Mr Edgar Marrable. The wedding, which took place in the New Parish Church, was a very brilliant one although indeed the lateness of the season and boisterous nature of the weather might well have restrained some of the exuberance of garniture which commonly distinguishes at least the feminine element at functions of the kind but the weather seemed hardly to affect either the arrayment of the humour on anyone concerned. Here was a happening which popular sentiment, if nothing else, had predestined for a happy termination and so approving and so participatory was the public attitude towards the whole function that the state of the barometer gave no one any serious thought for there has been seldom, if ever, been a local wedding in which so much popular interest was evinced. Miss Shields has always been everybody's friend. Every class in the community has been the better for her smile and it was inevitable that when the day of all her life which had the brightest dawn arrived, there should not be lacking a multitude of those who were eager to share some of the joy of it with her. Anyway, the great popularity of Miss Shields and the pleasing reputation which Mr Marrable had won for himself since coming to Ardrossan made it certain that their marriage would be a great success - and a great success it was. Long before the hour fixed for the commencement of the service, many of the guests had taken up their places in the church and by the time the bridal party arrived, not an empty seat was to be had. A very tasteful decorative scheme had been carried cut in the church, the pulpit, the organ and the choir seats being decked with masses of green foliage with palms and ivy and with profusion of white flowers, some of them orange blossoms and some of them chrysanthemums. Altogether the effect in the subdued light of the church was very charming. Soon after half past three, the bridal party arrived. The bride was beautifully arrayed in a dress of pale ivory satin, trimmed with chiffon and lace and with a yoke of lace and her general appearance, with the bridal veil and orange blossoms, was charming in the extreme. The bridesmaids - Miss Copp, cousin of the bride and Miss Ella Young - wore cream satin dresses trimmed with chiffon and great black picture hats, the ensemble with the groom's gifts, which were exquisite gold and pearl pendants and with their bouquets of pink carnations being wholly admirable. Mrs Shields, mother of the bride; Mrs Copp, the bride's aunt and Mrs Marrable, the groom's mother were all present, all of them clad in elegant dresses of black silk. Before the arrival of the bride, Mr Lawson, the accomplished organist of the church played three appropriate pieces of music and The Voice That Breathed et cetera was in the course of being sung when the bridal party moved up the aisle to the platform where the ceremony was to take place. Thereafter, the Reverend Mr McCall (shown below) engaged in prayer and then the choir who were specially in attendance sang the anthem O Perfect Love. After that, the marriage ceremony took place, the Reverend Mr McCall being the officiating clergyman. The rest of the service was mainly choral. At the end of it, the bridal party having left the church, the guests adjourned to the Eglinton Hotel where they were entertained by Captain and Mrs Shields. The presents received by Miss Shields were very numerous and very beautiful. They came from every corner of the country and the officials at the Harbour were not behindhand in showing their appreciation of the Harbour-master's daughter and their participation in her happiness. Early in the evening, the newly-wedded pair set out from Ardrossan, none knowing whither. The bride went away in a charming costume of blue frieze cloth with figured silk collar and a hat trimmed with blue velvet to match.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 17 October 1902

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB
The first meeting of the Camera Club for the season will take place in the Club room tonight (24 October 1902) when there will be a demonstration of platinotype and a paper by Mr J Rogers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 October 1902

ARDROSSAN GROCER HAS CANADIAN APPLES
Messrs McKellar have evidently secured a corner in Canadian apples and their place has quite a Hallowe'en look already. He will be a happy boy who secures one of the three-quarter of a pound apples in a 'dook'.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 October 1902

SEAWEED FOR THE FARMS
On Friday (10 October 1902) and Saturday (11 October 1902) of last week, the road between Ardrossan and Seamill (shown below in 2010) was crowded with carts carrying seaweed from the seashore to the farmlands in the vicinity. Evidently, the ill wind which travelled across the firth on the two previous days did somebody good.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 October 1902

POPULAR SATURDAY EVENING CONCERTS
The first of what may be a series of Saturday Evening Concerts at popular prices will be given in the Assembly Hall, Ardrossan, tomorrow (25 October 1902). Good talent has been engaged and an excellently varied programme is offered. The venture is deserving of encouragement.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 October 1902

BOYS' BRIGADE -ARDROSSAN COMPANY
The opening meeting of this company last Friday evening (17 October 1902) was attended with an encouraging amount of success. Forty-seven names were given in and the manner in which the boys performed their initial drill, at the command of Sergeant Major Ferries, augured well for the success of the movement. Captain Thomas Harvey is to have the assistance of Mr Alick Leask and Mr Jack Alpine as lieutenants.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 24 October 1902

COTTAGE BUILDING APPROVED
At a Dean of Guild Court held in Ardrossan on Monday (27 October 1902), application was made for permission to erect a semi-detached cottage in Barrie Terrace, Ardrossan (shown below top in 2008) at an estimated cost of £1000. Another application for the erection of a similar cottage at Caledonia Road (East), Ardrossan (shown below bottom in 2002) also valued at £1000, was submitted. Both were granted.


            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

ACCIDENT AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
While assisting in the loading of a cargo of sleepers on the steamship Songa on Wednesday afternoon (29 October 1902), John McTavish, a harbour employee, was struck by a log which fell while being hoisted into the vessel and sustained severe internal injuries. He was removed home and medically attended to.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

STEAMSHIP AGROUND NEAR ARDROSSAN
On Sunday morning (26 October 1902), the steamship Oberon, bound from Carrickfergus to Bowling with a cargo of salt, was driven ashore between Ardrossan and Seamill. When near the island of Pladda, a rope on board the vessel was washed overboard and became entangled in the propeller which was rendered unworkable. Sail was then hoisted but owing to a string wind that was blowing, the vessel was eventually driven ashore. On Tuesday morning (28 October 1902), at full tide, the Oberon was floated and brought to Ardrossan where it was repaired and discharged its cargo. It is a very strange coincidence that the small steamer Oberon should have met with her accident so very near the spot where the barque Oberon went ashore and that about the same season of the year, too. Both came to grief, too, peculiarly enough, through becoming unmanageable and drifting before the wind and tide. They alike shared the subsequent good fortune of getting off without serious damage.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902
The other Oberon was grounded on 10 November 1899.

ARDROSSAN'S NEW EVANGELICAL UNION CHURCH
On Monday morning (27 October 1902), the old schoolyard in Glasgow Street was the scene of an interesting ceremony, namely the cutting of the first sod preparatory to the commencement of building operations in connection with the new Evangelical Union Church (shown below in 2007). Shortly after nine o'clock, about one hundred spectators had gathered to witness the proceedings. After the company had sung the hymn Oh God Our Help In Ages Past, the Reverend Mr Sharpe read a passage of scripture and then offered up prayer. Previous to the commencement of operation, a photograph of the Reverend gentleman with shovel in hand was taken and, as natural, the small boy who was there in large numbers, made himself self-conspicuous by edging his way to the front of the crowd. In lifting a few shovelfuls of soil, Mr Sharpe said "I consecrate this ground to the office of the Lord in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost.". Another photograph was taken and after prayer, the company dispersed.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

YOUTH STEALS MONKEY
At Ardrossan Burgh Court on Thursday (30 October 1902) - Bailie Hogarth on the bench - a youth, residing in Saltcoats pleaded not guilty to a charge of theft. It appeared that the accused had gone on board the steamship Songa in Ardrossan Harbour the previous day and appropriated a monkey, the pet of the vessel which he found disporting itself in the cook's galley. He managed to get away unseen with the animal in his possession but eventually the police was communicated with and the youth was tracked to Saltcoats. On arriving there, the police found he had gone to Irvine and they followed him. At Kilwinning Station, the accused was observed with the monkey in his arms but he immediately dropped it on seeing his pursuers and bolted off. He was arrested, however, and conveyed back to Ardrossan. The charge was found proven and a fine of 7s 6d with the alternative of five days imprisonment was imposed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

THE TWO LITTLE DRUMMER BOYS
The Two Little Drummer Boys should make up for the want of an election in Ardrossan on Tuesday (4 November 1902). It will be staged in the Assembly Hall.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

SWITZERLAND AT ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB
Mr Thomas Guthrie will discourse upon Switzerland on Monday night (3 October 1902) to the Camera Club and exhibit upwards of one hundred Swiss views.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

SAINT ANDREW'S CHURCH RECTOR'S ENGAGEMENT
An engagement is announced between the Reverend Alexander Copeland MA, Rector of Saint Andrew's, Ardrossan and Violet W S McAlester, youngest daughter of Lieutenant-Colonel Somerville McAlester of Loup and Kennox.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

TWO VESSELS NEARLY READY AT ARDROSSAN
Two vessels which are being built in the Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Yard are nearing completion and will be ready for launching within a few weeks. The steamer Deloraine, on which extensive repairs have been made, left for Troon in the early part of the week.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

HMS BENBOW AT ARDROSSAN
HMS Benbow, the Clyde guardship, left the Tail of the Bank on Wednesday (29 October 1902) and proceeded down the firth to Ardrossan where she dropped anchor outside the harbour. Later in the day, the vessel steamed round to Irvine Bay, returning to Ardrossan waters on the following morning.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY IN ENCYCLOPAEDIA BRITANNICA
That the Government Education Department had evidently noted the good work being done in Ardrossan parish may be inferred from the fact that the Ardrossan School Board was one of those singled out to give evidence before the Royal commission on Physical Training. Another favourable sign is the reference made to the Academy in the new Encyclopaedia Britannica.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

FAST SCHOONER
We translate the following from a French provincial paper, the Phare De La Loire - The Robert Boustead of Nantes, which left our rivers on 8 October, arrived in London on Tuesday morning 14 October, having made the voyage in less than six days. The Robert Boustead is a schooner belonging to Mr Boustead of Saltcoats which was overhauled in Ardrossan and set sail thence over two months ago.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

TRESSPASSERS ON RAILWAY
On Friday last (24 October 1902), two employees of the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company, says a correspondent, were busy taking the names and addresses of trespassers near Ardrossan South Beach Station. As at times on that day, the offenders were there by the half-dozen - and some got off without being button-holed - it would be interesting to know how many names were booked. The Company has since informed the parties that if they are again found trespassing, they will be prosecuted forthwith. All this and more for the want of a footbridge across the line to join Seton Street with Barrie Terrace and thus provide a direct road between the upper part of Ardrossan and the neighbourhood of South Beach Station. Has the Town Council no power in this matter?
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902
A footbridge, shown below in 2013, was eventually built, certainly before the 1950s, connecting Seton Street and Barrie Terrace via Anderson Terrace and Park Road.

NO MUNICIPAL ELECTION IN ARDROSSAN
Ardrossan scorns the excitement of a contest. There was no demand for nomination papers and at 4 pm on Tuesday (28 October 1902), only the necessary three had been lodged, to wit - William Young, engineer; John Hogarth, banker and George Barrie, coal merchant. Mr Barrie takes the place of Mr Bennett and having served his apprenticeship in former Councils, may be depended on readily to acquire an understanding of affairs.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

FINED FOR FAILING TO PROVIDE EDUCATION
At a Justice of the Peace Court held in Ardrossan on Tuesday afternoon (28 October 1902), four men were charged with having committed a contravention of the Education (Scotland) Act by failing to provide their children, a son in each case, with elementary education. All were convicted and fines ranging from 5s to 15s were imposed, besides expenses.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

SATURDAY EVENING CONCERTS
Seldom is an Ardrossan audience so well entertained as was that which gathered in the Assembly Hall last Saturday (25 October 1902) on the occasion of the first of a series of Saturday evening concerts and seldom in any entertainment, however good it may be, patronised by such numbers as was this one. Long before the first item on the programme was entered upon, every seat in the hall was occupied and latecomers had to content themselves with standing room. The organisers of the concerts have made an auspicious start and it rests with them whether the entertainments are to become a popular Saturday evening feature in Ardrossan. Should they continue on the same lines on which they commenced, there is little doubt but the Assembly Hall will become quite inadequate for the purpose and no surprise need be expressed if many, of necessity, require to be turned away from the doors. Of those who contributed to last Saturday's programme, Miss May Seymour probably received the warmest reception, Her banjo solo was loudly encored but in her sand dance, the plaudits were even more pronounced and proportionally prolonged. A 'coon' song which the same lady rendered was well received. Annie Laurie is always a prime favourite with concert-goers and when rendered with such exquisite taste as it was by Miss Ethel Walker, it never fails to find the audience anxious for the singer's reappearance. Earlier in the evening, Miss Walker showed herself to be a talented vocalist by her rendering of Auld Scotch Songs and The Flight Of Ages. On the completion of teach song given by Mr A Murray, he received an ovation which was well merited. A concert without a comic singer generally fails to be an attraction, consequently much of the success of this entertainment was due to Mr James Wilford whose humorous pieces brought down the house. Professor Ogilvy Orr, who gave a ventriloquial sketch, kept the audience in roars of laughter with his witticisms, many of which were hugely enjoyed because of their allusion to local celebrities. The next concert takes place on Saturday 8 November when Mr J Bowie, tenor, and Madame Craigie, contralto, will appear.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 31 October 1902

MEN WE KNOW - REVEREND WILLIAM McGILCHRIST

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

RAILWAY GUARD HAS ARM BROKEN
An Ardrossan goods guard in the employment of the Glasgow and South-Western Railway Company, had his arm broken by a passenger train at Dalry last Friday evening (24 October 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

HOUSEHOLDERS NOT LIABLE FOR MONEY STOLEN FROM METERS
Penny-in-the-slot meter hirers, of whom there are a considerable number in Ardrossan, will derive some comfort from a recent decision in the law courts to the effect that householders are not responsible form money stolen from such meters unless guilty of negligence.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

ARDROSSAN CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY PRESENTATION TO MR JAMES DICK
On Thursday week (23 October 1902), Mr James Dick, vanman to the Ardrossan Co-operative Society Limited, Saltcoats District, was made the recipient of a dinner set and timepiece by the employees and a few Saltcoats members. Mr William Ford, head salesman, made the presentation. Mr Dick replied.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

ARDROSSAN CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY MEETING
The one hundred and twenty ninth quarterly meeting of the above Society was held on Monday evening (3 November 1902). Mr James Barbour senior, president, presided. There were about fifty members present, rather a small representation when it is taken into consideration that there are nearly one thousand on the roll. The balance sheet having been read, the chairman went over the different headings and, there being no questions of any importance asked relating to it, it was unanimously passed. The sales for the quarter amounted to £10205 15s 3d, the highest in the history of the Society, showing an increase over the corresponding quarter of last year of £1647 8s 1d. The net profits, after allowing for interest on share and load capital, amounted to £1507 8s 2d which allows a dividend of 3s per £ to members and 1s 6d to non-members on their purchases. For four seats on the board of management, eight members were nominated and on a vote being taken, the following were elected - Messrs P S McLauchlan, James Armour, John Barbour and Allan McNeill. On the motion of Mr John Yuille, Saltcoats, it was agreed to hold the next quarterly meeting at Saltcoats. A motion to hold a soiree in connection with the Society was negatived by a large majority. The other business was of a routine nature.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF GOOD TEMPLARS SOCIAL GATHERING
Last Friday evening (31 October 1902), a large company assembled in the Good Templars' Hall, Glasgow Street, on the occasion of a social gathering being held by the Lifeboat Lodge of the Independent Order of Good Templars. After tea had been served, an excellent programme of songs and recitations were gone through. Those who contributed to the evening's entertainment were Miss A Becket, the Misses Johnston and the Misses Matthewson as also Messrs Quin, Roy, Wellwood and J Hutchison.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

SMACK SUNK NEAR ARDROSSAN
On Friday afternoon (31 October 1902), shortly after the fishing smack Mary, of Rothesay, had left Ardrossan Harbour on its way to the former port, it encountered a heavy sea. When about a quarter of a mile to the west of the harbour, the waves swept over the vessel and, the hatches being open, it was not long before it sank. Two of the three men on board succeeded in getting into the small boat belonging to the smack but the third had to cling to a spar. The accident was witnessed by a pilotman at the harbour who lost no time in launching a boat and proceeded to the assistance of the unfortunate men. The vessel lay in a position dangerous to incoming and outgoing vessels and on Tuesday last (4 November 1902), it was blown up by means of dynamite. Through the good offices of the Shipwrecked Mariners Society, two of the crew were provided with passes to Rothesay.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

BLASTING A WRECK - AN INTERESTING OPERATION
This week, the harbour officials at Ardrossan, under the guidance of Captain Shields, harbour-master, undertook to remove from the fairway the submerged wreck of the jigger which foundered just outside the harbour last Friday (31 October 1902). Lying where it did, the sunken vessel was a danger to traffic and especially to incoming steamers who would probably know nothing of the obstruction so it was decided to get the wreck removed as speedily as possible and, as a first attempt, the tug-boat was engaged to pull the jigger out of the fairway by means of a rope attached to an up-sticking mast. This attempt, however, only resulted in the pulling of the mast out of the vessel so firmly was the latter embedded in sand at the bottom. Captain Shields then took with him a diver who went down to examine the wreck and to find whether or not it would be possible to remove her without having recourse to dynamite. The first descent was unprofitable as the diver had been quite unable to find the wreck in the semi-darkness underneath. Going down a second time, however, he discovered the unfortunate jigger and on returning to the surface, reported her position as one which would require an explosion to alter effectively so on Tuesday (4 November 1902), Captain Shields went out once more, taking this time two divers and some charges of dynamite. A slight swell was coming in from the south and as the boats lay above the sunken vessel, they rolled and bobbed continually. First of all, the divers were got into their special and peculiar clothes - a very tedious operation. Each was swathed in many thick woollen garments and was then assisted into the waterproof suit. That done, each had his big brass helmet with its window at either side and one at the front and its indispensable air-pipe screwed tightly at his neck and his brass-bound boots were fixed firmly to his feet before he was ready to descend. As soon as the helmets were put on, those in charge of the air-pumps had to commence working their machines and one could hear the hissing issue of the waste air through its proper channel in the diving outfit. When all was ready, the divers clambered one after another to the ladder at the stern of the boat and, moving slowly and ponderously in their weighty clothes, stepped rung by rung till the waters overwhelmed them and the air commenced to bubble up. It is a strange experience to look for the first time at the descending figure of a diver and it is an experience which has no element of envy. Until the bottom has been reached, the life-line and the air-pipe are carefully payed out and, of course, they must continue to be let out or taken in according to the movements of the diver at the bottom. On Tuesday, both the divers spent some time underneath in examination of the wreck before they signalled for the charges of dynamite to be let down. When the signal was given, the explosive which was merely crammed into an old paint can, was lowered and the connecting electric wires to effect the explosion were payed out until the canister was properly placed by the men at the bottom of the sea then the divers came once more to the surface and the boats were removed to a safe distance from the imminent explosion. By one swift movement, the electric circuit was completed and instantly, a loud report sounded and the air shuddered with the shock. A great commotion of the water could be seen above where the charge had been laid and ere long, timbers of all sorts - fragments of the jigger - commenced to appear on the surface. Great pieces floated up as if some unseen hand were busy throwing up the material piece by piece. In a moment, where there had been nought but the grey billowing sea, appeared a great quantity of floating wreckage, planks, beams, straw beds, cabbages and a vast amount of smaller chips. Several other blasts were carried out in the same manner until no considerable portion of the sunken ship was left.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

A PRIMITIVE ACADEMY
At the time of which this sketch speaks (probably around 1870), the town of Ardrossan was not the active shipping centre it is today. The triangle of schools built of red and white sandstone that now compose the School Board was non-existent. Instead of these noble specimens of architecture, other three sanctums of learning adorned the streets of the village. Two of them were in Glasgow Street while the third - and most certainly the least - had its headquarters in Princes Lane and was known as Jimmy Gemmell's. As we have no immediate concern with the first two named, it were better merely to say in passing that Hyslop's Academy was the rendezvous for children of the supposed well-to-do while Graham's seemed to exist for those whose monetary position was not quite so apparent. Gemmell's sanctum came in the rear, despised of the other two, and the scholars of the Glasgow Street schools would as soon have thought of playing in a pig-sty as holding converse with Gemmell's scholars. Caste, in these days, was as pronounced in the little town as it is in far-off India and I daresay it still exists. The writer had the misfortune - he would rather call it fortune - to belong to the 'submerged tenth' school and remembers with feelings somewhat mixed of the boycott Gemmell's boys - it was only a boys' school - had to submit to at the hands of the aristocrats of Glasgow Street. I should hope that the boys of today exhibit a more generous spirit towards each other even although one boy's father may have a few rooms more in his house than another. The mind in those days was not the measure of the man but we have made much intellectual headway since that epoch of stinted breadth of vision. Gemmell's Academy now belongs to the things that were. No archaeologist exists who can point you to its remains for it is wholly non est and not a tablet or stone marks the spot where it once held sway. Railway extensions required that the old seat of learning should be sacrificed and, no one demurring, the spot that one knew it knows it no more. Education bills and Carnegie bequests and many other scholastic movements provide food for reflection to the man whose rude education over thirty years ago was compromised of the primitive training that schoolmasters of the type of Dominie Gemmell could bestow. Whether our present system of elaborate instruction is conducive to the production of a better type of citizen, we will not venture to inquire into but content ourselves by observing that the tendency to outwards decoration and display is one of the great and crying evils of this twentieth century. It would take the pen of a Dickens to portray faithfully the Dominie Gemmell and his sanctum of learning and one feels as if committing an act of sacrilege in thus bringing into metaphorical life reminiscent of a forgotten feature in Ardrossan history but after all was it interesting? For the scholars whose fortune it was to undergo the Gemmell curriculum, the answer comes back from both hemispheres emphatically - no! The writer has not had the good fortune to fraternise with any of his contemporaries these many years but if any of them should read these lines, whether it be in the homeland, colonies, Pacific or other coast, he sends them greetings and best wishes for happiness and earthly prosperity. He clearly recollects them as he writes but alas, many have gone the way of all the earth. The Princes Lane schoolhouse had originally been dwelling houses of the but-and-ben type and several of these - probably three - with their partitions levelled, constituted the Academy. There was only one room and it was scantily provided with anything in the nature of decoration. On the floor, at different angles, were long desks with unbacked seats on both sides and a row of ink bottles running up the centre about a yard apart. The wood in the neighbourhood of the ink bottles - the bottles were held in a round receptacle cut out of the wood - was as black as the ace of spades while the desks themselves would have done credit to any Old Curiosity Shop. The only other furniture was the master's little desk, a blackboard and a dilapidated-looking map of the world on the wall behind the desk. No recollection of any other adjunct to the surroundings comes to the memory unless a large fireplace of the real old-fashioned type with enormous perpendicular ribs. The windows were those extant before the conversion of the houses into a school. The panes were very small and of a bluish tint with here and there a knotty pane that showed evidence of imperfect manufacture. When I say that this place was entered by a battered-looking old door that might have had its last coat of paint before the Christian era, I have said all that there is to say about it except that it opened with a sneck. The schoolmaster himself was a man of some force of character, a fine old head covered with thick grey hair showing a forehead of great intellectuality, clean shaven with a strong chin that lay in the peaks of a Gladstone character, somewhat softly laundered. His jaw was heavy and his mouth was indicative of will-power, only relieved by occasional glances from eyes that could, when in the mood, be soft as those of a gazelle. The nose was a somewhat prominent adornment of the face. Of no particular recognised form, it was neither an acquiline nor a Roman but was of such respectable dimensions as to give ample accommodation to a pair of spectacles that had a prominent home on the bridge. If you add to these particulars a man of medium height, wearing an old and baggy suit of tweeds, the coat of which was of the two-tailed kind, a wide-awake hat, a big black cravat of merino tied into a bow and a wincey front, you have a pretty exact likeness of the schoolmaster. The scholars were a medley crowd and might number anything between seventy and a hundred. Their names one remembers so well and their faces too and one wonders how they all managed in life's battle and how many of them survive. There were Archie, Adam, Jake, Neil, Ben, Jimmy, Bob, Duncan, Malcolm et cetera et cetera and where those who survive have pitched their tents is a difficult question to answer. The dominie had been a sea captain trading in foreign parts but as his hair commenced to change its hue and old age dragged his footsteps, he bethought himself of a more congenial occupation. Being somewhat of a scholar, as learning went in those days, he opened his academy in Princes Lane and taught with a fair measure of success the rudiments of education. To this training, he combined the teaching of navigation and many young sailors were indebted to him for a knowledge of logarithms that enabled them to become shipmasters on their own account. Saltcoats and Ardrossan have been prolific in an especial degree and probably the influence of the retired skipper had much to do in shaping the course of many of its scholars. Every Friday afternoon it was his wont to take us on an imaginary trip on the old map that hung on the wall behind his desk. These voyages of the imagination had a magnetic power over the lads that frequently spent itself in the real and no features of the school had such a pleasant prospect for the scholar as theses weekly voyages to lands across the seas. The black and disreputable appearance of the map as it hung with rollers almost detached did not diminish one iota the real enjoyment felt by the listeners. Perhaps the stone fights that Gemmell's boys had with Hyslop's and Graham's scholars were the most interesting feature of our outdoor enjoyment. The two Glasgow Street schools lay at the foot of the Cannon Hill which was the rendezvous and as our position gave us a key to the situation, the Glasgow Street aristocrats had perforce to seek shelter wherever they could find it. Our Spion Kop was unassailable and on every occasion the spoils fell to the Princes Lane warriors. Often the gasworks gasometer was in danger. Many stones found a resting place on its top and probably some of them remain to this day. No constabulary prowled the town in those days and it was no difficult matter to evade either Joseph of the town or John of the harbour. They both rest now, bless their bones. Neither Joseph nor John was a bad friend to the boys as was evidenced at Hallowe'en time when old boats and tar barrels were stolen. It is questionable if the boys of today get as much out of their outdoor sports as did the boys of thirty years ago and more. We sometimes think they do not but it is difficult to look at like with the same optics as viewed the world over as quarter of a century ago. These days are gone, never to return but during all these years of struggling they have been a pleasant memory and bring back thoughts of many happy days spent at the primitive seat of learning under the able, if somewhat stern, dictatorship of the old nautical schoolmaster. Before the advent of the School Board, the dominie had paid his debt to nature and was thus spared the humiliation that come to many old-fashioned educators of the rising generations, consequent on the beginning of an extended and more perfect curriculum. No more those games of rounders, shinty and hi-spy and gone are the days when the farmers' carts, laden with turnips, carrots and other appetising produce, came through the streets to the station from all parts of the West Kilbride and Largs district, Ardrossan being the nearest station. The loads, when they reached Willie Crawford at the Goods Station, were invariably lighter than when they left the farm, for Ardrossan boys did not disdain a good turnip in those days of long ago. So many luxuries abound now that farm produce has a comparatively safe passage through the very smallest villages and railways have changed the whole aspect of human endeavour. Pity it is that the old academy of learning does not remain for then some scholar who had gone into the world and become famous would probably have put a tablet on the old building so that those who ran might read. As it is, our memory must be the tablet.
J S
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 7 November 1902

PRINCES STREET CROSSING REPAIRED
Congratulations are due to the Streets Committee for having made a start with the repairing of the crossing in Princes Street (shown below in 1974).

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

A HILL PLACE NUISANCE
At the meeting of the Town Council held at Kilmahew on Friday evening last (7 November 1902), the Clerk read a memorial signed by all the residenters at Hill Place (shown below in 2009) complaining of an unwholesome and unpleasant escape of gas. A great many cases of sore throat had occurred in the neighbourhood and the cause, there could be little doubt, was the pollution of the atmosphere by the said sewer gas. The Burgh Surveyor made a suggestion for the remedy of the matter and it was agreed to carry out his suggestion.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

STEAMSHIP DAMAGED AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
On Wednesday forenoon (12 November 1902), the steamship Turtle of Glasgow, whilst changing docks, ran into the pier at the entrance to the Old Dock and damaged one of her plates.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

STEAMSHIP TOWED INTO ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
The steamship Templemore of Londonderry was towed into Ardrossan Harbour on Friday morning (7 November 1902) owing to the piston rod having broken whilst the vessel was passing up the Firth.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

WELL-GROOMED SHIP ARRIVES AT ARDROSSAN
The ship Lindisfarne which arrived at Ardrossan this week with a cargo of nitrate of soda from South America, is a wonderfully well-groomed craft, if the phrase is permissible in connection with a ship. Considering the length of the voyage, her condition, even from an aesthetic point of view, was very creditable to the officers and crew.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

COLLECTION FOR PENNILESS SKIPPER
Through the kindly exertions of Coastguard Maguire, a few pounds were raised in Ardrossan and presented to the penniless old skipper of the smack Mary that foundered off the Harbour the other day.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

DESERTER ARRESTED IN ARDROSSAN
On Monday (10 November 1902), the Ardrossan police effected the arrest of a deserter from the ranks of the Royal Artillery. He was conveyed to Ayr where he was detained until the arrival of an escort from his regiment.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

INACCURATE ESTIMATE
When an expert engineer estimates the cost of an undertaking at £12000 and it works out at from £16000 to £18000, as has been the case with Ardrossan Gasworks, it is not to be wondered at if public confidence is shaken in him.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

ARDROSSAN SERGEANT DIES IN SOUTH AFRICA
There has been received this week news of the death at Standerson, South Africa, from enteric fever, of Sergeant W S Thomson, Royal Field Artillery, a native of Ardrossan. The deceased, who was well-known here, was when a youth employed in the Royal Bank of Scotland and subsequently in the office of Messrs Hogarth and Company, Princes Street. In February 1896, he joined the army and in December 1900, was sent out to South Africa. At the close of the war, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant having been for some time previously Acting Quarter-Master Sergeant. Much sympathy has been extended to Sergeant Thomson's bereaved mother who resides in Lamlash. Mr James Tyre, draper, is a brother-in-law to the deceased.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

SATURDAY EVENING CONCERT
The second of a series of Saturday Evening Concerts was given in the Assembly Hall, Ardrossan, last Saturday (8 November 1902). Although the audience which gathered on this occasion was not quite so enthusiastic as at the former entertainment, it was every whit as large. The artistes of first importance, as one might have judged them to be by the applause which accorded them, were Madame Craigie and Mr J W Bowie. The former gave a rendering of Cam' Ye By Atholl? and The Dear Little Shamrock, both of which elicitated loud requests for an encore. Mr Bowie's tenor voice in Mona and I Loved A Bonnie Lassie was heard to great advantage. Both these vocalist also gave a humorous duet, the pith of which was Where Does All The Money Go?. Miss Sheila Deans who, considering her youth, was not an unimportant acquisition to the number of entertainers, made a decided hit with her 'coon' songs. Miss May Seymour has hitherto proved herself to be a thorough master of the banjo and the applause with which she was greeted on making her appearance with the instrument made it apparent that the audience were aware of the fact. The comic of the evening was ably impersonated by Mr Jack Henri. Mr Henri is of the Harry Lauder school of comedians and although he may not have attained the success of the latter, it must be said that there is little to choose between the merits of both. During the course of the evening, Miss Nellie Justice acted the part of accompanist. The next concert takes place in December.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

CALEDONIAN AMBULANCE COMPETITION
The Ardrossan team has no reason to be ashamed of the position it took in the competition on Saturday last (8 November 1902) in the competition for the Caledonian Railway Company's Challenge Cup. Nineteen teams entered and Ardrossan came out fourth, only six points separating it from the winner, Buchanan Street Goods. The following shows the relative positions of the four highest teams.
                            Oral  Bandages  Transport
Buchanan Street   97           82              98
Perth                     92           82            100
Saint Rollox          96           79              98
Ardrossan             94           80              97
As indicative of the progress that is being made in ambulance study, the winning team's points are eleven higher than last year. Ardrossan was represented by John McDonald Frame, captain, Gilbert Clark, John Sim, Peter McCallum and Thomas Tervet and their more than creditable position is largely due to their instructor, Dr Macdonald.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

LIGHTS O' LONDON

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 14 November 1902

LIGHTS O' LONDON
Who has not seen The Lights o' London, the interesting drama from the pen of Mr George R Sims, will have an opportunity f witnessing it tomorrow evening (22 November 1902) in the Assembly Hall. The company which presents it, Mr W T Rushbury's, is already well-known in Ardrossan and nothing need be said of its capabilities. The play is at one moment humorous, the next pathetic and abounds in perilous adventures, hairbreadth escapes and curious surprises such as are sure to delight the melodrama-loving public.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS CAMERA CLUB
On Monday evening (17 November 1902), Mr J Peat Millar, Beith, delivered what proved to be one of the most interesting lectures given under the auspices of this club. Subjects For The Camera was the title chosen and the slides thrown on the screen were highly entertaining. Included among them was the much-commented-on photograph taken by Mr Millar of an evicting cuckoo. Mr Thomas Guthrie presided over a fair audience.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

ARDROSSAN LIFEBOAT EXERCISE
Ardrossan Lifeboat was exercised on Tuesday (18 November 1902) under the supervision of the new district inspector, Lieutenant Basil Hall, RN.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

ARDROSSAN SHIPBUILDING COMPANY LAUNCH
It is expected that he launch of another steel screw steamer will take place from the yard of the Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company on Saturday (22 November 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

STEAMER RETURNS TO ARDROSSAN FOR REPAIRS
The steamer Ranza of London which left Ardrossan on Friday (14 November 1902) for Memel broke down shortly after leaving and was forced to return to the harbour for repairs.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

YOUTH INJURED AT NEW ARDROSAN GAS WORKS
A youth named Galloway, employed at the new gas works, sustained severe injuries on Tuesday ( 18 November 1902) by falling from a plank which was raised some distance from the ground.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

LECTURES AT SAINT JOHN'S CHURCH
The first of the series of Saint John's Church course of lectures comes off on Monday (24 November 1902) when Mr George C Guthrie will exhibit one hundred and forty slides illustrative of his lecture on The Art Of Illusion.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

IRON ORE BROUGHT FROM NEWFOUNDLAND TO ARDROSSAN
Upwards of 15000 tons of Newfoundland iron ore are in course of being discharged at Ardrossan Harbour meanwhile. Three steamships, all belonging to the same Norwegian company have brought the ore.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

MR JAMES MUTTER ADDRESSES LORD PROVOST OF GLASGOW
Mr James Mutter (shown below) of Meiklelaught, as president of the Glasgow Consular Corps, conveyed the respects and congratulations of the representatives of foreign countries resident in Glasgow to the Lord Provost of the City on Monday (17 November 1902). He did so in a happily-expressed speech.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

ARDROSSAN MAN TO STAND FOR ELECTION IN PAISLEY
Mr John Moffat who has been unanimously adopted as Unionist candidate for Paisley, is a son of the late Mr John Moffat, Ardrossan and nephew of Miss Moffat. He is about twenty-four years of age and was educated at Cheam, Eton and Cambridge where he is said to have made a special study of mathematics, chemistry and political economy. He pitted himself against Mr Asher, the member for Elgin Burghs at the last election and has undertaken no easy task in setting himself to capture Paisley.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

CAPTAIN ARCHIBALD MACDOUGALL
Captain Archibald MacDougall of Terrabus, Port Askaig, Islay whose death we noted last week was a notable figure. In Islay, Troon, Ardrossan and all along the Ayrshire coast, no mariner was better known and respected. For sixty years, he sailed on these shores and for fifty-four years acted as master. Descended from a race of shipbuilders and mariners, he settled first at Laphroaig and afterwards at Port Ellen, he early joined his father on trading expeditions. At eighteen, he commanded his father's vessel, the Margaret and latterly the schooner Texa, built to his order at Ardrossan. This vessel he commanded till his death. He is the last as he was among the best of that class of trader who did the carrying business between Islay and the mainland. Of more than average intelligence and knowledge, of commanding presence and strong personality, he will be long remembered by all who came into contact with him. He is succeeded by his son Archibald as master of the Texa.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - THE WAYS OF OUR POLICE
Ardrossan
19 November 1902
Sir
Kindly allow me to ventilate a little grievance which I had to submit to last night (18 November 1902). I was accosted by Inspector Allan and requested to step into his office (shown below top in 2003) for a few moments. I complied with his request and he informed me that a complaint had been made to him. Some drunk man had behaved improperly in view of some children on the high road near Parkhouse Farm (shown below top in 2004) - this, remember, a full fortnight ago and the complaint was made yesterday. I unfortunately had been imbibing rather freely at the time and he suggested that I might be the party. I resembled closely the man of whom he had a description and he also reminded me that a drunk man might do many a thing and not know of it. Now I maintain what's not in a man will not come out of him, be he drunk of sober and it was little credit to the police to produce a man on these unjust grounds who turned out to be the man wanted. A complaint of this class, taking place fourteen days after the offence, should never have been entertained by the police at all unless the complainer was in a position to give a name and address or point out the offender to the police. Why, the man who committed the offence might have been a tramp and a hundred miles away by this time. I was detained at the office for over an hour, pending the arrival of complainers who, on seeing me, at one said I was not the offender. Inspector Allan then bade me goodnight, saying I left without a stain on my character et cetera. I must say that Inspector Allan was courteous and gentlemanly in the matter. This morning, I have had an interview with my agent on the subject and I trust that there will be no more requests on such flimsy grounds to step inside the office of our respected Inspector of Police.
I am et cetera
Hard Liner


            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

LAUNCH AT ARDROSSAN - A NEW DEPARTURE
On Saturday forenoon (15 November 1902), the steamship Constance, which has been built to the order of the Rapid Transport Company Limited of London, was launched from the yard of the Ardrossan Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company. As the vessel left the ways, she was christened in the usual manner by Miss Constance L Coates, the little five-year-old daughter of Captain W H Coates, one of the managing directors of the Rapid Transport Company. After a ceremony, Miss Coates was presented with a handsome gold bracelet as a memento of the occasion by Mr Robertson of the Ardrossan Shipbuilding Company on behalf of himself and his co-directors. The Constance has been constructed to an exceptionally high specification and is capable of carrying 180 to 200 tons on a very light draft. In order that she may take the ground without injury when loaded, she had been fitted with special deep floors and two substantial rubbers. As one of the special features in the policy of this company is the care which will be bestowed on the cargo, no pains have been spared in the design and workmanship on the holds and hatchways. The vessel has been built with bilge keels and the usual belting as also a large hatchway and a powerful steam winch for the rapid handling of cargo. The engines will be built by Messrs Menzies of Leith under the supervision of Mr D Smaile, Glasgow. The Constance is the first of a fleet of similar steamers with which the Rapid Transport Company intend to establish a regular and fast service between the Thames and Medway ports.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 21 November 1902

IN MEMORIAM - MISS MOFFAT, ARDROSSAN
For more than half a century, the name of Moffat has been linked with Ardrossan. Away back in the thirties of the last century, James Moffat, superintended the making of the branch railway connecting Ardrossan with Glasgow and which was completed in 1840. In 1843, John Moffat, so long honourably connected with the Harbour, began his visits as engineer of the Wet Docks and to his untiring efforts, the present day prosperity of Ardrossan is largely due and now, it is our painful task to record the death of the remaining Moffat link with the town. Miss Moffat died at her residence here in the early hours of Wednesday morning (19 November 1902) after but a few hours of unconscious illness. It was in keeping with the strenuous energy which has been characteristic of Miss Moffat's whole life that she was shopping on Monday (17 November 1902) in thoughtful remembrance of young friends at the coming Christmastide. That evening, the trouble fell upon her that ended in death. It is impossible to name any movement in Ardrossan during these long years which aimed at the wellbeing of the town and the welfare of its inhabitants which had not Miss Moffat's sympathy and practical encouragement. Not only were her own sympathies always in the direction of assisting laudable schemes and in promoting the happiness of other people but since 1882, in which year Mr John Moffat died, her life was largely devoted to realising his ideals. To this end, she identified herself with many social and ameliorative movements in the west of Scotland and even in Glasgow with its long roll of active lady workers, Miss Moffat of Ardrossan was a tower of strength to not a few money-making enterprises. If any one department of public work engrossed Miss Moffat's time and energy more than another, it was in the training in industrial pursuits and in housewifely duties the girls of the parish. For years prior to the appointment as a member of the School Board, she interested herself in these departments of school work and it is a striking testimony to the manner in which she carried through her schemes that she retained to the very end the esteem and respect of the teachers and the scholars. In February last, "with feelings of the deepest regret", Miss Moffat resigned her position on the Board owing to the state of her health. Apart from her labours in educational and philanthropic directions, Miss Moffat took a broad and intelligent grasp of local and imperial questions. She formed her own conclusions and was always able to state her views with clearness and decision. One felt in the presence of Miss Moffat the truth of Goldsmith's saying "The is some irresistibly pleasing in the conversation of a fine woman, even though her tongue be silent the eloquence of her eyes teach wisdom.". Ardrossan has had only one Miss Moffat. Her life in now an affair of the past - the memory of it is still with us.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 November 1902

MR WALTER BENTLEY IN ARDROSSAN
On Tuesday evening (25 November 1902), Mr Walter Bentley's company staged The Bank Of England in the Ardrossan Assembly Hall before a fairly large audience. The play was such as interest all who care to watch the unfolding of mysteries, the tracking of deep-dyed villains and the ingenuity displayed by Sherlock Holmes-like detectives in following up the clues which all evil doers leave behind them for the benefit of the police. Mr Walter Bentley (shown below) played the part of the famous detective and the other characters were in capable hands.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 November 1902

THE LIGHTS O' LONDON
On Saturday evening (22 November 1902), a large audience gathered in the Assembly Hall, Ardrossan when Mr W T Rushbury's company presented Mr George R Sims' now famous drama The Lights o' London. The play, which was in capable hands, was well received, the audience appearing to follow it throughout with deep interest.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 28 November 1902

ARDROSSAN SCHOOL BOARD
The monthly meeting of this Board was held on Wednesday (3 December 1902). The members present were Mr Shearer, chairman; Reverend Rossie Brown; Provost Guthrie and Mr Morris. The attendance officer submitted a list of pupils attending the various schools under the Board, showing numbers on the roll to be as follows
Eglinton School - 459
Winton School - 454
Saltcoats School - 846
Ardrossan Academy - 381
It was agreed to purchase sixty cartloads of ashes, twenty for each of the Ardrossan school playgrounds. The question of increased accommodation at the Academy was continued until the next meeting. The chairman said they were all aware that there was a vacancy on the Board since the lamented death of the Reverend Mr Mordue. The time had now come when they would have to take steps to fill up the vacancy and he had come to the conclusion that the best thing they could do was to ask Mr Robertson, manager of the Ardrossan Shipbuilding Company to join their ranks. Provost Guthrie said he was pleased to second the motion. He was acquainted with Mr Robertson and he knew him to be a thoroughly straightforward gentleman. Taken all in all, he thought they would have a very good member in Mr Robertson. A letter was read form Mrs Mordue intimating her resignation as teacher under the Board as for the end of the year. This was all the business of public interest.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

MR ROBERTSON JOINS ARDROSSAN SCHOOL BOARD
Mr Robertson of the Ardrossan Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company has been appointed a member of Ardrossan Parish School Board.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

ARDROSSAN WINTON ROVERS DANCE
The members and friends of the Ardrossan Winton Rovers Football Club - to the number of about fifty couples - dance in the Town Hall tonight (5 December 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

MISS GULLAN AND FRIENDS AT SAINT JOHN'S HALL
Miss Gullan and friends appear at Saint John's Hall on Monday evening (8 December 1902). Latecomers will have to be content with standing room if even that.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

LEAK AT MUNNOCH RESERVOIR
During the past month, a somewhat serious leak burst out in the Munnoch Reservoir Dam (shown below in 2010) and caused the loss of forty million gallons of water, this quantity having to be run off before the level of the burst was reached.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

CELESTIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Celestial photography will form the theme of Dr Alexander Morgan's lecture in the Park Church, Ardrossan (shown below as the Church of the Nazarene in 2002) tonight, Friday (5 December 1902). The lecture and limelight illustrations warrant a large audience. In Park Church, the evening will be both profitably and pleasantly spent.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

UNFORTUNATE SHIP
The ship Savona that lay off Ardrossan for a couple of days on account of stress of weather has had a series of misfortunes since leaving the Clyde. In the course of being towed to Cardiff, she had to seek safety in Belfast Lough. After that, she had to run into Kingstown Harbour on account of the prevailing gales and now she had had to run back to Holyhead, the hawser of the tug which had her in two for Cardiff having parted.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

PRESENTATION TO MR THOMAS GRAY
Mr Thomas Gray, a former employee of the Ardrossan Cooperative Society Limited, was the recipient on Wednesday evening (3 December 1902) of a handsome travelling case, the gift of his late fellow workers and friends. The presentation took place in the boardroom. Mr John P Brown, manager, presided and Mr David Moffat, head of the fleshing department, in a few fitting sentences, handed over the gift. Mr Gray has gone to fill a situation under Uddingston Cooperative Society.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

ARDROSSAN AND SALTCOATS SICK NURSING ASSOCIATIONS
The Ardrossan and Saltcoats Sick Nursing Associations have had divided between them the sum of £25, the gift of Mr George Morton, the new proprietor of Montfode estate, as a personal donation from Mrs Morton and himself. It is a pleasure to record such a handsome recognition of local institutions. Any who may desire to follow Mr Morton's example, though it may be to a lesser degree, may rest assured that the money will be well and wisely spent.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

ARDROSSAN CASTLE CURLING CLUB ARE ALMONERS
The Ardrossan Castle Curling Club are now in the happy position of being almoners to the poor. A somewhat dreary law case in which they were interested parties has been settled and they have become trustees for a sum amounting to about £400 from the estate of the late Provost Barr. (shown below in the late 1870s). The interest on this gift will yield £12 per annum at least and after meeting the cost of a medal as stipulated for by the donor, the balance of ten guineas will be at the disposal of the Club for disbursement.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

FORTY SIX THOUSAND MILES UNDER THE UNION JACK
This is the attractive title of a lecture to be delivered in Ardrossan Assembly Hall next Friday (12 December 1902) by Mr W M Oatts of Glasgow. The lecture is under the auspices of the Young Men's Christian Association and the proceeds are for local Association work.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

ARDROSSAN CAPTAIN'S ROUGH PASSAGE
Captain John Nichol junior, Ardrossan, skipper of the barque Duns Law arrived at Hull on Monday (1 December 1902) from Vancouver with a cargo of wheat after a somewhat eventful voyage. When the Duns Law left British Columbia in May last, it had to encounter adverse winds which prolonged its passage considerably. The weather was at its worst when the barque was off Cape Horn and the lands as far as the eye could see was covered with snow while the cold was intense. The Duns Law called at Queenstown for orders and when approaching that port, Captain Nichol had to exercise great caution on account of a strong gale which was blowing. The Cork Examiner, in referring to the Duns Law's arrival at Queenstown, remarks that its commander had a trying experience on this his first voyage as captain but that he safely steered his barque through all its difficulties. Captain John Nichol is a son of Captain Nichol, Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

FALL FROM A TRAIN
Last Friday evening (28 November 1902), shortly after the 7.15 train from Saint Enoch's had left South Beach Station, the railway officials observed a man lying on the ground, apparently injured. He was removed to the waiting room and it was observed that he had received serious injuries to his face. The police having been communicated with, they had him removed to the police station where he was medically attended to. Subsequentally, he game the name of Alexander Smith, a clerk, residing in Glasgow.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - ARDROSSAN'S NEW INDUSTRY
Trevalyan Hotel
Leeds
2 December 1902
Dear Sir
As an Ardrossan man who has been out of it for a few years, it is very gratifying to find you have a new industry in the place. In a large shop in Boar Lane here, I notice a special line of ladies' jackets all bearing the label 'Real Ardrossan Tweed'. It made me quite proud of my native place and I look forward to seeing a similar label in the windows of some of our Scottish City shops on my return.
Yours truly
Ardrossanian
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 December 1902

ARDROSSAN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
The Town Council of Ardrossan met in Kilmahew on Monday evening (8 December 1902). Provost Young presided and the others present were Bailie Hogarth and Messrs Harvey, Guthrie, Crawford, Smith and Barrie. Minutes having been approved, the Clerk read a missive letter from the Convention of Royal Burghs asking the Council to appoint a Commissioner and an Assessor to attend the convention and Conference in April next. Provost Young moved that Bailie Hogarth be the Commissioner to attend the Convention. Mr Crawford seconded. There were no other nominations. Bailie Hogarth and the Clerk will therefore attend the Convention next April. Mr Harvey as convener of the Works Committee reported that the Committee had opened the offers for work to be done in connection with the drain at Church Place (shown below in 2002) and now recommended the council to accept that of Mr John McLean which was the lowest. Of course, the Committee had power to go on without submitting the matter to the Council but they had felt that too much money was involved to act on their own responsibility. He moved the adoption of the report. Mr Crawford seconded. Agreed to.

Mr Harvey then said the Council would remember the discussion about a nuisance caused by sewer gas at Hill Place (shown below in 2002 and 2009) which took place at the last meeting. Well, the Inspector made an estimate of the cost of putting the matter right and found it to be much greater than he had originally supposed. In these circumstances, the Committee felt they would not be justified in proceeding further without authority from the Council. Mr Shaw would be able to give them an estimate for an alternative scheme whereby the nuisance might be remedied. This scheme was for carrying the gas away by means of a vertical shaft thirty feet high. The Burgh Surveyor said the probable cost of carrying out the scheme he himself had thought of, that is, of leading a four inch fire-clay pipe from the sewer up the hill to the ventilating shaft already on the top of the hill, a distance of sixty five lineal yards, would be £8 2s 6d. He had also made enquiry about a lamp-post ventilator and had received from Glenfield and Kennedy Limited, Kilmarnock, a sketch and the quoted price of such a shaft. This scheme would cost ten guineas. Mr Crawford said it seemed to him that something must be done. Mr Barrie moved that the Glenfield system be adopted. The Burgh Surveyor suggested delay till he should receive an offer for a similar vertical shaft from the Elmbank Foundry Company. Mr Harvey said he visited Hill Place along with the Surveyor and his own opinion was that the fire-clay pipe system which could be carried out by the Surveyor and which was cheaper was the better of the two. Mr Barrie said what they wanted was the most effective method of obviating the nuisance irrespective of what it might cost.


            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902
The ventilator was installed in 1903 and is shown in the photos below, taken in 2005.

EXPENSIVE DRINKS
At Saltcoats Justice of the Peace Court, a labourer of Harbour Lane, Ardrossan was fined 25s or ten days imprisonment for obtaining drink from two Saltcoats hotel keepers on Sunday (7 December 1902). He falsely represented to them that he had travelled from West Kilbride.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

RUSSIAN CARGO AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
A cargo of Russian pig-iron and scrap iron arrived at Ardrossan Harbour and besides large imports of iron ore, a great deal of timber is presently coming into the dock.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

PARK CHURCH SALE OF WORK
Park United Free Church, Ardrossan, hold a sale of work on Thursday first (18 December 1902) with the object of raising money on behalf of the Women's Foreign Mission. Our advertising columns announce the fact and here we commend the sale to the attention of our readers.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

SALE OF WATCHES, CLOCKS AND JEWELLERY

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

CHRISTMAS CAKE AND CANDY SALE

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

ARDROSSAN PENNY BANK

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

ARDROSSAN CAMERA CLUB
At the Camera Club on Monday evening (8 December 1902), Mr J M Comrie gave a demonstration of the development of Velox prints by the brush and dish methods. There was a fair attendance of members and the demonstration, which was both interesting and valuable, was watched with close attention. At the end of the proceedings, it was announced that the Club had become possessed of a lantern and cylinder and would now be in a position of displaying slides made by the members more frequently than heretofore.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

WINTON ROVERS SOCIAL AND DANCE
The members and friends of the Ardrossan Winton Rovers Football Club met in a social capacity in the Town Hall last Friday evening (5 December 1902) when Mr George McKellar, honorary president presided over a happy gathering of between forty and fifty couples. A substantial tea having been partaken of, songs were rendered in good style by several of the company. At the close of the programme, the chairman, in the course of a few appropriate remarks, complimented the team on their record for the present season. Of fifteen matches played, nine have been won, three drawn and three lost while they have scored forty-five goals with twenty-four against. A very enjoyable dance followed at which Master James Barbour was master of ceremonies. Excellent music was supplied by Roy's quadrille band from Stevenston and a most successful function came to a close in the early hours.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 December 1902

LANTERN LECTURE AT YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
Mr William M Oatts, late secretary to the Glasgow Branch of the Young Men's Christian Association, lectured to a large audience in the Ardrossan Assembly Hall on Friday evening (12 December 1902). The subject of his remarks was a trip round the world and entitled Forty-Six Thousand Miles Under The Union Jack. The lecture was illustrated by means of a lime-light lantern with photographs taken in various parts of the world. Mr J Galloway, Kilmeny, occupied the chair. In introducing Mr Oatts, he promised the audience an interesting lecture. The Ardrossan Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA), he said, had much reason to be grateful to Mr Oatts for coming there that night to lecture to them. At the outset, the lecturer exhibited on the screen photographs of various YMCA branches after which the audience were introduced to such historical spots in India as the Cashmere Gate and Cawnpore Memorial et cetera. From there, Ceylon, Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand were visited in turn, Botany Bay, Sydney Harbour, Collins Street, Melbourne and Dunedin being among the many scenes depicted. A photograph of a Maori family, snapped in the New Zealand bush, seemed to instil particular interest. After some picturesque spots in the New Zealand Alps had been shown, the journey was resumed from Vancouver to Niagara via the Canadian Pacific Railway. A photograph of Liverpool Docks was followed by that of a thatched cottage in the Island of Arran which appropriately finished the series of views. The lecturer was attentively followed by the audience in his reminiscences of the tour and at the close, on the motion of Mr Galloway, was awarded a vote of thanks.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

LANTERN LECTURE AT YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION
Mr Charles Taylor of Glasgow Street, Ardrossan has passed his examination for first mate with flying colours.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

SALTCOATS AND ARDROSSAN LIBERAL CLUBS MEET AT BILLIARDS
A billiards match between the Liberal Clubs of Saltcoats and Ardrossan will take place in the Ardrossan Club Rooms on Saturday afternoon (20 December 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

ARDROSSAN-BOUND STEAMSHIP DIVERTS TO BRODICK BAY
The steamship Sunbeam, bound for Spain to Ardrossan with a cargo of iron ore, had to put into Brodick Bay on Sunday evening (14 December 1902) owing to the fierceness of the gale.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

ARDROSSAN-BOUND STEAMSHIP DIVERTS TO GREENOCK
The steamship Magpie was unable to enter Ardrossan Harbour on Tuesday morning (16 December 1902) owing to the heavy sea. She proceeded towards Greenock where the passengers were landed.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

ARDROSSAN LAWN TENNIS CLUB DANCE
Ardrossan Lawn Tennis Club had a most successful dance on Friday last (12 December 1902). Saltcoats Town Hall was for the nonce a bower of art and happiness.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

MR LAIDLAW LECTURES IN SAINT JOHN'S HALL
Mr Laidlaw of Ardeer lectures in Saint John's Church Hall on Monday evening (22 December 1902). Mr Laidlaw has the gift of making his lectures popular and interesting.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

ARDROSSAN SHIPYARD BUSY
The local shipyard has for a considerable time been extremely busy. Very nearly all the available space for keel-laying has been taken up and the number of vessels in the stocks is larger than at any time these many days. The two small steamers for the Rapid Transit Company of London which were launched a few weeks ago have been boilered and have made their trial trips, the result in each case being eminently satisfactory to everyone concerned. The Ardrossan Shipbuilding Company have one or two ships well-nigh ready for the water and we doubt not that there are commissions enough to fill up their places in the yard.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

ARDROSSAN SAVINGS BANK
Depositors in this Bank are requested by advertisement in this issue to return their passbooks in order that they may be balanced for the year. It will facilitate the work of the joint treasurers if this request is promptly attended to.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19 December 1902

TO ADVERTISERS AND CORRESPONDENTS
Arrangements have been made for publishing next week's issues of the Herald on Thursday morning (1 January 1902). Advertisers and correspondents will oblige by sending their communications so as to reach us by Wednesday 31 December.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

NEW FOUNDRY IN ARDROSSAN?
They say that a new foundry will be ere long started in Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ATTRACTIVE SHORTBREAD
A windowful of shortbread in Princes Street is presently much of an attraction for the infantile Arab.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ARDROSSAN-BOUND STEAMER TOWED TO ISLE OF MAN
The steamship Latchford which was this week due at Ardrossan Harbour with a cargo has been towed into Peel, Isle of Man, disabled.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

LAST CARGO OF THE YEAR?
Surely the last cargo of sleepers for the season has now arrived at the Eglinton Dock. The Ranza came in on Wednesday night (24 December 1902).
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ARDROSSAN-BOUND STEAMSHIP DIVERTS TO GLASGOW
The big Donaldson liner, of which men have been speaking as an imminent arrival at Ardrossan has passed on to Glasgow instead.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

LITTLE WORK DONE AT ARDROSSAN HARBOUR
Little work was done in the harbour yesterday (25 December 1902), the storm and the feeling that Christmas is not a working day having much to do with the fact.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ILL WIND BENEFITS ARDROSSAN DRY DOCK COMPANY
The Ardrossan Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, busy repairing damage done by the recent storm, are proving the proverb about the ill wind.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

MARY REPAIRED IN ARDROSSAN SHIPYARD
A number of the workmen in the shipbuilding yard were busily employed on Sunday (21 December 1902) in repairing the bows of the Mary, a Glasgow vessel which sustained damage on a voyage from Bilbao to Ardrossan.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ARDROSSAN BUTCHER BUYS PEN OF SHEEP
Mr Harvey, butcher, Ardrossan, purchased at Ayr the other day a pen of first-prize and champion sheep. The price paid was very high but Mr Harvey considers he has got value for his money.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

MIGNIGHT MASS
The usual midnight service took place in the Roman Catholic Chapel (shown below in 1901) on Christmas Eve when a large congregation, including not a few Protestants, attended. An unusually able sermon by the assistant priest was a feature in the service.

            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902
The Roman Catholic Chapel was - and still is - in Ardrossan Road, Saltcoats. In 1902, it served the towns of Saltcoats, Stevenston, Ardrossan and West Kilbride.

ARDROSSAN LIBERALS BEAT SALTCOATS LIBERAL AT BILLIARDS
Ardrossan Liberals 1169 - Saltcoats Liberals 850. Such was the result of the billiards match played in the Ardrossan club on Saturday last (20 December 1902) between eight players a side representing the clubs. Out of the eight games, Ardrossan won seven.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

CHRISTMAS AT THE POST OFFICE
That the Christmas card is gaining in popularity no one who has studied the postal statistics issued at the close of each festive season will deny. Each year, the Christmas traffic at most of the Post Offices throughout the country constitutes a record as compared with that of previous years. In Ardrossan Post Office, the number of letters and parcels dealt with during the past week has been much in excess of the amount received and dispatched at any previous Christmastide. A considerable number of Christmas postcards - which are ordinary pictorial postcards containing seasonable greetings - helped to augment the contents of the postmen's bags. The innovation has to all appearance caught on and although it may not supersede the Christmas card, there is no doubt but that it will be quite long-lived.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ARDROSSAN POST OFFICE - NEW YEAR'S DAY ARRANGEMENTS
On New Year's Day, Ardrossan Post Office will be open only for the sale of stamps and telegraph and telephone work. There will be only one delivery by postmen which will take place at 8 am. There will be no dispatches of mails from 7.30 am till 4.45 pm after which the usual dispatches will be made.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

RECORD PASSAGE FROM CANADA TO ARDROSSAN
The ship Almedia, which is presently discharging in the Eglinton Dock, has made a record passage from Canada, the voyage being accomplished in nineteen days. For a sailing vessel, this is a very exceptional achievement and is possible only when the weather is throughout of the most favourable description. The Almedia was hove to on one day only during the voyage.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY PRESENTATION TO MISS CRAIG
On Wednesday afternoon (24 December 1902), the staff of Ardrossan Academy presented Miss Craig, West Kilbride with a dressing case and accessories complete. Mr Butters, the rector, in making the presentation referred eulogistically to Miss Craig's long connection with the Academy, both as pupil and teacher and expressed the hope, shared by all, that success would attend her in her new sphere. Mr Turnbull, on behalf of Miss Craig, replied.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ARDROSSAN ACADEMY TEACHERS' SOCIAL FUNCTION
The Eglinton Hotel in Ardrossan was on Friday evening last (20 December 1902) the scene of the second annual social function of the Ardrossan Academy teachers and their friends. The rooms were tastefully decorated. Songs, recitations and games were interspersed between the items of a lengthy dance programme. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was spent. Mr Macrae was an indefatigable master of ceremonies. The refreshments were served in Mr Fleming's usual excellent style.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902

ROWDY CONCERT IN ARDROSSAN
An incident which had its amusing side was witnessed at a concert held in Ardrossan recently. A youth, much under the influence of liquor, was beguiling the time between the exit of one artiste from the platform and the appearance of the next by shouting in a stentorian voice "Ladies and gentlemen, yez doesn't know a good song when ye see it.". For a time, the ladies and gentlemen thus addressed - particularly the ladies - heeded him not but when it became apartment that the interruptions would only cease with the finish of the programme, a well-meaning individual, disinclined to put up with the rowdy one's conduct, rose up and with clenched fists made straight for the interrupter. Immediately, a bevy of young women got in the way and with menacing threats, dared him to advance. The peacemaker, not having bargained on this, retired and the drouthy one continued his shouting with increased zest, knowing that his personal safety was assured so long as he could depend on his valiant bodyguard of fair admirers. This is an instance of the evil influence of a woman's devotion.
            Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 December 1902