1899 | 1900 | 1901 | 1902 | 1903 | 1904 | 1905 | 1906
Herald Files - Snippets from the Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald
January 2, 1903
Subscriptions this season to the Saltcoats Police-aided scheme for clothing for poor children total £13 18s. police inspector J Findlay is honorary secretary.
Ardrossan EU Congregational Church have re-elected Mr Vickers, president; Mr Thomas Wilson, secretary; and Mr Campbell, treasurer. Additional managers appointed were messrs Flinn, Gallacher, Carr and Galbraith and additional deacons Messrs Ramsay, Cameron, Milne and Alexander.
Rob Roy was produced on two evenings last week by the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Musical and Dramatic Society. Mr Jacobs was Rob Roy and the cast included Messrs John Anderson, Thomas Buchanan, Henry Magee, Sam Noble, Charles Magee,, Carruthers, John Bain, WG Smith, John Deacon, Thomas G Anderson, William McMurtrie, John H Kerr, masters Fred Morrison, Archibald McPherson and Alf McPherson, Misses Kate Brady, Jessie Becket, Peggy Ramage, S Dunkeld and S Quinn.
Mr Peter Murchie (son of the late Captain Murchie) of Whitefarland, Arran, who sailed for many years as captain of Burn's steamer, Buzzard, on the daylight service to Belfast, has passed his examination for the certificate of first mate in the foreign merchant service.
Sir James and Lady Bell of Montgreenan provided a grand Christmas treat for the children on the estate and others in the hall at the mains.
January 9, 1903
The new Year was welcomed in at Saltcoats in fine weather and with much enthusiasm. On New Year's day grocers and shop keepers closed at 2pm and the public houses at 5pm.
Mr Peter Kerr, Sunday School Superintendent, St John's UF Church, Ardrossan, was presented with a marble timepiece by the officer bearers, teachers and friends on the occasion of his marriage.
At Dalry there was a large crowd at the Cross to greet the New Year and the Instrumental band gave selections.
J Nelson, Kilwinning, was fourth in the final of the Powderhall handicap foot race on Friday.
January 16, 1903
At Saltcoats Town Council's meeting complaints were made of the prevalence of gambling in the town. Mr Ross said he didn't believe there was a town of the same population wherein gambling took place more than in Saltcoats. it was agreed to suggest to the County Council that two officers be appointed to cope with betting in the county.
Mr John Miller at Saltcoats Literary Society meeting gave an essay on Characters of Dickens.
Mr William Fullarton, for some time booking clerk at the G&SW Railway Station, Ardrossan, has been presented with a gold lever watch and silver cigarette case.
Mr Thomas Taylor, formerly of the A&S Herald staff, has been appointed to the Molteno News, a weekly paper published in South Africa.
So severe has been the frost in the Dalry area that the postman in the Largs Road district was unable to continue his journey after reaching Camphill Farm.
January 23, 1903
Teachers and scholars of Eglinton School, Ardrossan, presented Miss Agnes Stirrat, ex-pupil teacher with a gold brooch on her leaving Ardrossan for Leith.
The new organ in West Kilbride Parish Church was used on Sunday for the first time in the public worship of the sanctuary.
Willie Fernie, Troon Golf Club professional has been invited by the Earl of Dudley, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland to pay a visit to the Vice Regal Lodge, Dublin, for the purpose of golf from April 8.
Mrs Cree, widow of James Cree of Saltcoats, died on Wednesday at the age of 101, at Wallsend-on-Tyne. She was born in Kyleshill, Saltcoats, and was a daughter of Mr Robert McKillop whose smiddy was on part of the site now occupied by the Mission Coast Home. Her husband, James Cree was a boot and shoemaker, who had a shop in Bradshaw Street and afterwards in Dockhead Street. She went from Hayocks Farm, Stevenston, last year to stay with her son, Peter Cree at Wallsend-on-Tyne.
January 30, 1903
Mrs Lockhart, who was shop attendant to Dr Milroy, Kilwinning, has passed the examination under the Pharmacy Act and is now an APS.
Incandescent burners are to be tried on some of the street lamps in Kilwinning.
The RT Hon Graham Murray, MP is presenting a cup for competition among the Arran football clubs. There are only three properly organised teams: - Corrie, Brodick and Lamlash.
At a mock parliamentary election by Dalry Literary Association, Mr George Geddes (Liberal) was returned by an overwhelming majority over Mr Thomas Gray (Conservative).
February 6, 1903
Mr John Inglis, builder, Ardrossan is catering for local needs by erecting cottages in Anderson Terrace and a tenement in Park Road.
The first cargo of iron ore ever from Norway to a Clyde port was landed at Ardrossan this week. It was discharged from the Olaf Kyroe.
Two hundred people attended the annual Yeomanry dance in the Public Hall, Dalry, which was tastefully decorated by Mr Andrew McNeilly. The dance concluded at the late hour of 3am.
Mr James Durie Bannatyne, Caledonia Road, Saltcoats, has passed his first examination in general knowledge with a view to being indentured as an apprentice to Mr Thomas Kirkhope, solicitor, Ardrossan.
Mr JM Robertson, a Brodick man, has been selected to contest Tyneside as a Liberal at the next election.
Mr Daniel Hamilton of Arran and Glasgow, who has retired from business, was entertained by his city friends to dinner in the Windsor Hotel, Glasgow and presented with an illuminated address.
February 13, 1903
The costs of teaching staff in the following schools was:- Ardrossan Academy, £1701 11s 4d; Winton School, Ardrossan, £941 15s 4d; Eglinton School, Ardrossan, £989 11s 8d; Saltcoats School, £1345 18s 1d.
Police Sergeant John Anderson has been transferred from Dalry to Stevenston.
Mr Hugh Paton, Gogo Cottage, Largs, well-known as an auctioneer, has died in his 87th year.
The total income of Whiting Bay United Free congregation for the year was £868, an increase of £75. Church door collections were £154, an increase of £33.
Mr WSM Patrick, Dalry, has been appointed Sheriff-Clerk of Ayrshire.
At the St John's UF Church, Ardrossan, annual meeting, the financial report should the gross income to be £478 8s 5d and the expenditure £597 6s 8 1/2d, leaving a debit balance of £28 17s 3 1/2d.
February 20, 1903
The Ardrossan and West Kilbride Farmers' Societies are now amalgamated. Mr Arthur Craig, Ardrossan and Mr Dewer Paton, West Kilbride , are joint secretaries.
Saltcoats Public Hall was practically filled on Monday evening when the Fisk Jubilee Singers gave a programme.
A children's performance of Rob Roy was given in the Stevenston Conservative Club Rooms. Principal members of the cast were: Masters D Murray, W Brodie, W Ritchie, A McIntosh, Steel, Misses J Stewart, J McIntosh and Boyd. At intervals, the brothers McPherson performed Highland dance.
Through the kindness of Mr and Mrs Grant of Monkcastle, the tenantry and servants were entertained to their annual supper and dance on Friday evening. Over 50 were present.
February 27, 1903
The memorial stone for the new EU Congregational Church building, Ardrossan, was laid on Saturday by Captain John Smith. The collection taken was £110.
Several vessels have been storm-bound at Ardrossan this week. The Glen Rosa (G&SW Railway Steamer) made her usual passage to Arran on Thursday but the Marchioness of Lorne (the Caledonian Railway Steamer) did not face the storm.
A Lamlash man, 23 year-old Mr DC Shaw, chief officer of the Clan McPherson, took charge of a boat, with other three members of the crew, to search for an apprentice who had fallen overboard. Tremendous seas were running and all four took a great risk in manning the boat. They failed to find the lad. Mr Shaw's father was at one time piermaster at Lamlash.
Irvine Burgh School Board have decided that, as far as Irvine, Golf Club are concerned, the employment as a caddie of a boy of school age in school hours would result in prosecution by the board of parent, player and caddie master.
March 6, 1903
Captain John Pugh of Ardrossan is given high credit along with officers and crew for bringing the SS Egremont Castle into Mahe (?) after the fire had burned in the ship for 14 days. The chronometer had been destroyed by explosion and for six days the ship was under the guidance of a Waterbury watch.
The Victorian Temperance Institute, Stevenston, built by the Hope Lodge of Good Templars at a cost of about £700, was formally opened on Saturday afternoon by Mrs Laidlaw, Ardeer House.
Kilbirnie Royal Blue Dramatic Association performed Guy Mannering on three evenings last week. The male members of the group included Messrs William Dunlop, Malcolm Reid, Frank Watt, WR Matthews, John Clark, Frank Fraser, John S Knox, Robert Shaw, John Miller, John Howie, Harry Dunphie, General Gray, James Crossan jnr and Master Andrew Fotheringham.
March 13, 1903
The casting vote of Provost Guthrie, Saltcoats Town Council decided for the first time to advertise the town as a holiday resort. the following advertisement is to be inserted in one Scottish and seven English newspapers daily from April 1 until August 31:- "Scotland - Saltcoats, Ayrshire; magnificent sea bathing; lodging-houses of every description. Apply Wallace, printer." The estimate cost will be about £25.
Saltcoats Town Council have asked that Saltcoats Post Office be kept open until 9pm for six months of the year instead of until 8pm, the current arrangement.
A 6700-ton cargo being discharged at Ardrossan harbour is said to be the largest that has ever come to this country.
At the annual social of Landsborough United Free Church, Saltcoats, The Rev WDM Sutherland, the minister of the congregation, mentioned that in a few hours it would be exactly four years since the birth of his boy - the fist born in a Free Church manse in Saltcoats.
March 20, 1903
Mr Michael Murray, fish merchant, Saltcoats, has received by cable intimation of the death of his son, Mr James Murray in a railway accident at Crowley, Louisiana, USA.
The female school of industry building in Dalry has been purchased at £815 by Blair Lodge of Freemasons.
Mr Patrick RM Macaulay, son of the Rev RS Macaulay, Irvine, and a former dux of Irvine Royal Academy, has gained the medal in the Honours class in Political Economy at Edinburgh University.
Mr William Tait, second son of Mr George Tait, teacher, Saltcoats, has been appointed to be head of the Jewish Mission in Alexandria, Egypt, in connection with the Church of Scotland.
A 26-ton casting, a record, was made in Ardeer Foundry last Saturday.
March 27, 2003
Mr George Tait, elder son of Mr Tait, schoolmaster, Kyleshill, Saltcoats, has been made a Burgess and Guild Brother of the City and Royal Burgh of Glasgow. He is in the General Post Office and served in the Boer War with the Telegraph Battalion of the Royal Engineers.
A handsome tenement block of dwellings houses has been erected in Lynn Street, Dalry, to the order of Mr James Barr. In Dalry also a three-storey tenement has been completed in Garnock Street to the order of Mrs James Cameron, CE, and another block of tenement houses for Mr Allan Boyle is nearing completion. In spite of these erections, the demand for houses is still considerable.
Among the Ayrshire pupil teachers who have passed the King's Scholarship Examination are James J Aitken, Dalry; John McCartney, Dalry, and David R Glen, Glengarnock. The candidates qualifying under special articles included AK Aitken, Beith Academy, and Mr FR Blair, West Kilbride.
There was a "boom" in Kilbirnie in emigration to Canada of young men. Sailing with the Laurentian from Glasgow tomorrow are Hugh Fyfe and William G Carson for Winnipeg and John Davies, Andrew Kay jnr and George Knox (who is returning) bound for British Columbia.
April 3, 1903
The death has taken place of Mr Archibald Robertson, who was tenant of the farm of High Feorline, Arran, for about 55 years, he was 83 years of age.
Mr John Sheddon-Dobie, Morishill, Beith has died at the age of 84. He travelled abroad and wrote many books.
During last week Ayrshire had four outbreaks of swine fever involving the slaughter of 30 animals.
A memorial cross has been placed on the chapel of St Andrew's Episcopal Church, Ardrossan, in memory of the late Rev Robert Mordue.
County constabulary changes include:- William Meiklejohn, Kilwinning to Patna; William McGregor, Largs to Darvel;
William Muir, Darvel to Kilwinning; Alexander Beaton, headquarters to Largs.
The Rev P Clarkson, Kilwinning, was ordained as minister of Sinclairtown United Original Secession Church, Kirkcaldy on Tuesday.
A memorial window in Dalry West Parish Church, erected by Dr William Sloan, Dalry, in memory of his wife, was dedicated last Sunday.
April 17, 1903
Saltcoats Town council decided by a majority to change the name of Old Raise Road to Victoria Road.
The juvenile singing class of Trinity Church, Saltcoats, rendered a cantata, Flora's Festival, in the church. Mr Fredrick Kerr was the conductor.
At a gathering in Stevenston Public School on Friday 160 book prizes were presented to the children who were successful in the bulb growing competition. Special medal prizes were presented to master Wm Craigan and Miss Peggy Small, a silver badge to Master E Forester and silver card cases to Miss Boyd and Mr Mackie, Teachers.
At Dalry Castle Show the winner of silver medal for the best animal in class was A Craig, Ryesholm. In the horse classes, J Crawford, Beith, was first for the best female.
Mr John Alec Doctor, son of Mr John Doctor, Cross, Beith, has passed his first professional examination at Glasgow University.
April 24, 1903
The death is announced of Mr Archibald Robertson, Burnside, Rutherglen, and formerly of Ardeer Cottage, Stevenston and Braehead House, Saltcoats.
Mr Thomas McGuire, coastguardsman, Ardrossan, has received £25 through the Board of Trade for the salving of the steamer Rachael, which went ashore near Ardrossan Harbour in dense fog.
At Mr Hugh McKinnie's juvenile dance assembly in the Town Hall, Saltcoats, pupils who gave exhibition dances included Masters D Watt and R Webster, Misses Dickie, Doran, A Clark and R Watt.
John McCartney, West End, Dalry, has been appointed to the Shearer Bursary (Glasgow University).
The degree of MA was conferred on Mr John Boyd Orr, West Kilbride, at the Glasgow University graduation ceremony on Tuesday.
Mr James Mair, James Tyre and David McFarlane, West Kilbride, sail for Canada on Saturday.
May 1, 1903
The death has taken place of Mr John Barbour, Ardrossan, at the age of 38. he was well known in the town and was prominent in sport.
Sergeant Campbell, attendance officer, Ardrossan School Board, has received an appointment at Sydenham near London.
Mr F Hannah's violin and mandolin pupils gave a concert in Saltcoats Town Hall. Solo items were given by Masters D Paton and J Kirkwood, Mr F Hannah and Mr JS Smith, Miss M Blair and Miss F Morton. The vocalists were Misses J McNiven, Gertrude Bremner, and Messrs AW Neil and Matthew A Quinn. Mr AM Arnott was accompanist.
Presentations were made to Mr Macrea of Ardrossan Academy staff on the eve of his departure for South Africa. Gifts were handed over from the staff and the girls from class VII.
Constable Stark has been transferred from Kilbirnie to Saltcoats and constable Robert Shearer from Cumnock to Kilbirnie.
Mr Hugh Harvey Felton, son of Mr John Felton, headmaster, Ladyland School, Kilbirnie, has won the medal in pathology and the Monteith Bursary at Glasgow University.
May 8, 1903
Ardrossan Model Yacht Club sailed a race with the Paisley club at Paisley, the home club winning by seven points to three.
The local men and yachts taking part were Harry Hughes, Ardrossan (Madge); Alex Blair, Saltcoats (Defender); James Barbour, Ardrossan (Lex); A McLean Jnr, Ardrossan and Archie Hughes , Ardrossan (Nan).
Mr William Thomson, chief clerk of the Post Office at Dunoon, has been appointed postmaster at Lochmaddy, North Uist. Mr Thomson, who is the son of Mrs Thomson, caretaker of the Town Hall buildings, Ardrossan, entered the postal service as a telegraph messenger in Ardrossan in 1885.
Mr Robert W Watt of the Clydesdale Bank, Ardrossan, has passed the Institute of Bankers' Associates Examination.
Miss Annie Wilson has been presented with a gold bracelet by Trinity Church Saltcoats, in recognition of her 18 years service.
George Stevenson, Saltcoats, former pupil of Ardrossan Academy, has been awarded the Atkinson Bursary at the Glasgow and West of Scotland Technical College.
May 15, 1903
Lieut The Hon William Montgomerie, Scots Greys, the second son of the Earl of Eglinton, was fatally injured while tent pegging at Stellenbosch, South Africa. he was accidentally pierced in the side by the point of his sword and he died from his wound the following day. he was 20 years of age.
John Pllu, Saltcoats, who was one of four in a tugsail boat which was capsized at Irvine on Friday evening, was drowned. He had been for many years a bogey-runner at Ardeer Factory.
Saltcoats Town Council have fixed an annual allowance of £3 to the Firemaster and £1 10/- to his deputy. For attendance at fires, the rates will be:- for not more than four hours, firemaster, 15/-; deputy, 12/6; firemen, 10/-; for each extra hour, firemaster, 2/-; deputy, 1/6; firemen, 1/-.
Ardrossan Harbour Company have made the following appointments:- Mr David Reid of Messrs Keydens, Strang & Co, writers, Glasgow, to be secretary; captain Shields, harbourmaster, with full managerial control; Mr John Craig, traffic superintendent and Mr AJ Ritchie, cashier
May 22, 1903
One of Stevenston's oldest residents, Mr Robert Stirrat, bootmaker, died on Saturday.
There is wild talk of the railway companies putting on three steamers for the Ardrossan-Arran Monday morning traffic this summer.
Mr Robert Allan, on the occasion of his departure for Canada, was presented with gifts by Ardeer Church Choir and Musical Association. At a social in the Winton Arms, Stevenston, John Frew and Alexander Harris, John Mckeechan and Campbell Ballantyne were given presentations on leaving for America.
A fine specimen of an adder or viper, 17 inches long, has been captured near the banks of the River Garnock where the Bombo merges into the river at Dalry. This is the first of its kind to be found in this district. It is in the possession of the Dalry naturalist, Mr Archibald Shanks of Mount Pleasant.
A New York telegram states that Mr John Muir of Messrs John Muir & Son, tanners, Beith, who is on a visit to the States, is said to have sold the American rights of the process whereby tanning pigskins are made available as a substitute for rubbers for tyres. The figure given is £1,000,000.
May 29, 1903
The Jubilee issue of the Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald recalls memories of the olden times. It is stated there is residing in Stevenston a Saltcoats man who assisted to distribute the handbills announcing the first issue of The herald.
The towers of the new EU Church in Glasgow Street, Ardrossan, are nearly finished. There is in the course of building just now a tower of another kind - the chimney stack of the new gasworks.
Business at the harbour is on the boom again. Both docks are comfortably filled, are as also, and consequently, the public bars.
Thanks to the energy of County Councillor William Adams, the road leading from the Wellington Hotel, West Kilbride, to the Public School is now open for traffic and it is claimed to be one of the greatest ever improvements made in this Parish.
Beith Football Club have applied for admission to the Scottish Combination.
On Wednesday evening about 5 o'clock fire was observed to have broken out in the bakehouse in Main Street, Dalry. The flames seemed to have been caused by spontaneous combustion.
June 5, 1903
An illuminated address was presented to Messrs Arthur Guthrie & Sons, publishers, Ardrossan, on the occasion of the Jubilee of the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald.
The death has taken place of the Rev Angus Stewart, senior minister of Whiting Bay Church.
At the close of the Teachers' Saturday Drawing Class held in Ardrossan Academy Mr RB Ririe was presented with gifts by the members of the class, Mr WD Kerr made the presentation.
Mr John G Lyon, BA, headmaster of West Kilbride Public School, has been elected president of the Ayrshire branch of the Educational Institute of Scotland.
Mr Alex Penman, who has been stationmaster at Kilwinning on the Caledonian Railway for the past 7 1/2 years, has been transferred to the stationmastership at Kilbirnie.
June 12, 1903
Councillor Guthrie was appointed junior Bailie of Ardrossan Town Council.
Saltcoats Town Council have agreed to spend £6 per week in providing a band during the month of July.
At a public meeting in the Lesser Town Hall, Saltcoats, it was resolved that a burgh instrumental band be formed and a subscription list be opened.
Mr J Duff, a member of Ardrossan Parish Council, states that the four children whose birth notices appear in the first issue of the Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald 50 years ago, June 1, 1853, are still alive and have attained their 50th birthday. They are: Mr George Park, Boglemart Street, Stevenston; Mr William Gray (in USA), Mrs Colquhoun (Scott), Govan; and June Gilmour (Park) (in USA).
A novelty in the form of a Lithuanian Theatre gave an entertainment for Poles at Glengarnock on Saturday and was well attended.
Mr John Blair, WS, the well-known Edinburgh lawyer, whose death is announced, was a native of Dalry, He was Dalry's benefactor in the matter of a public park.
June 19 1903
The daylight service between Ardrossan an Portrush opens on June 23 with the SS Azalea. Return fares: cabin, 14/-; steerage, 6/6d. Ardrossan - Belfast sail are: cabin, 9/6d.; steerage, 4/-.
Mr Allan McNeill late foreman in the Ayrshire Steel Foundry, who is leaving for Polmont, was presented with gifts at a social in Saracen's Head Hotel, Saltcoats. Mr MacNaughton made the presentation and the following were vocalists:- Messrs G Allan, J Bertram, R Cameron, AW Bone, R Kinnier, W Templeton, W Brown, J Templeton.
The Minstrels, the Merry Mascots are doing good business in Saltcoats.
At the annual excursion of the employees of Ayrshire Foundry, Stevenston, the following were among the winners of firsts in the races:- Schoolboys - William Craigen; Schoolgirls - Lizzie Graham; other races - John Rodger, Mrs John Rodger, A Murray, George Allan, J Hamilton, D Harvie, Sam Higgins,; five-a-side football winners:- Alex Yuille, Thomas Cassidy, James Reid, Andrew Paton and Peter Turner.
At Glengarnock bowling green the Cunninghame Medal was won by the following rink:- James Macbride, Andrew Kerr, James Brodie and Robert Ferguson, Lochend (skip).
A memorial window erected by the congregation in Kilwinning Parish Church in the memory of the Rev William Lee Kerr was unveiled last Saturday.
June 26, 1903
Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston merchants had an outing at Keswick on Wednesday per corridor train. The homeward journey commenced at 7.45pm and all got to their destinations some time after one o'clock.
On Tuesday afternoon on board the Glen Sannox, a little boy named James Young of Kilwinning, was kicked on the head by a horse and sustained a severe wound.
It is rumoured in the Troon that the Duke of Portland has refused The Warren for a golf course, but is willing to give Lochgreen Park, which is however regarded as too small for an 18-hole course.
The West Kilbride School Board have intimated to the Parish Council that they require £875 for the year, £75 more than last year.
Beith Instrumental Band have secured a month's engagement at Saltcoats on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays.
Mr James Walker, dental surgeon, Saltcoats, advertises that the charge for extraction by his "easy method" will be 2/-. The charge for ordinary extractions with or without cocaine 1/-.
July 3, 1903
The first prosecution under the bylaws made by the County Council for the suppression of betting was brought this week in the JP court in Kilmarnock. A betting agent, or bookmaker, was fined 50s or 15 days imprisonment. the fine was paid under protest.
A correspondent calls attention to the practice of the carriage-hirers plying between Ardrossan and Saltcoats charging more than the understood fare. Twopence is the recognised fare.
The presentation of prizes to Ardrossan Academy pupils took place in the town Halls, Saltcoats, on Tuesday. Mr Spottiswood presented the prizes and the medallist were John Gibson and Janet Reid, Elocution prizes were gained by
Esther Stitt, Maggie Kirkwood and Bessie Sweet. The medallists at Saltcoats Public School was Alex Gibson, a brother of the Academy Dux.
Kilwinning School Board have decided to open an infant school at Lyleston and have appointed as teacher Miss Jeanie Stewart, of the infant department of the Public School.
The officers of the Channel Squadron who were permitted to use the golf links at Lamlash have offered the club a present of a carriage clock to be competed for, as an acknowledgement of the kindness shown to them.
July 10, 1903
Cricket and football are being indulged in on the sand at Saltcoats these evenings and the comment is made; "It may be that someone will yet be brained by a cricket ball."
A fancy dress cycle parade in Saltcoats, on Saturday evening, in aid of the proposed public brass band attracted only some 50 cyclists. They were accompanied by Beith Brass Band and Nobel's Fire brigade. The collection amounted to £22 3s 6d.
The new slaughterhouse at West Kilbride appears to be a building of architectural pretensions. it is known locally as "the palace."
On arrival of the Belfast boat train at Mongomerie Pier on Monday evening........
July 17, 1903
A boy named Andrew Stevenston McKelvie was drowned in a pool known as the Lion at Glengarnock.
Ardrossan stone-masons have gone on strike for an increase of 1/2d per hour, making the rate 9 1/2d per hour.
miss Jeanie Auld, LLA, daughter of Dr Auld, Kilwinning, has obtained the degree of MB Ch.B at Glasgow University.
Kilbirnie East United Free Church, as enlarged and improved, was opened for public worship on Friday evening by the Rev Principal Salmond, UF College, Aberdeen.
For the first time in history the Scottish Juvenile Football Cup was won by an Ayrshire club. Vale of Garnock Strollers on Saturday beat Carron Thistle 1-0 in the final on the ground of Ashfield FC, Glasgow.
John McInnes, MPS, has acquired the business of chemist and druggist carried on in the Medical Hall, 51 Main Street, West Kilbride, for the past 15 years by Dr Macarthur.
At the National Rose Society show in Glasgow, Mr Archibald junior, Middleton, Dalry, won third in open class for all amateurs for 12 distinct blooms.
July 24, 1903
The first race meeting of the Stevenston Whippet Club took place at Kerelaw Mains on Saturday in the presence of a big turnout. it was pronounced the finest afternoon's sport ever witnessed in the district. Among the heat winners was Mr Frew's (Stevenston) Spider.
At the examination of the Trinity College of Music, London, the following pupils of Kilwinning Public School have passed the taken home honours:- masters Hugh Douglas and Andrew Stewart. They were pupils of Mr S Scott.
At Beith FC amateur sports Dalry carried off majority of the honours.
The following Beith pupils have been recommended for the five County bursaries of £4 each for attendance at Beith Academy:- Geo Short, Bartleholm; WA Caldwell, Townhead; Hugh Hall, Wardrop Street; Alex Lamont, Winton Place; W Wilson, king's Road.
West Kilbride's Gas Light Coy's profit for the year was £314 and a 5 per cent dividend was declared.
Mr Frank Watt, the former International footballer, was third in a walking race fro Kilbirnie to Largs.
July 31, 1903
On Monday morning a train from Ardrossan carrying 500 passengers from the Isle of Man steamer Tynwald, on arriving at St Enoch Station, Glasgow, crashed into the terminal buffers with terrific force. Fifteen people were killed and many injured.
On Saturday Dalry Co-operative Society celebrated its semi-jubilee and a new drapery department was inaugurated.
Mr R Graham, cabinetmaker, Dalry, was presented with an easy chair by his fellow workers at the Ayrshire Cabinet Works to mark the occasion of his marriage.
On Wednesday last Gateside School, Beith, was formally handed over to the School Board by the Rev IG Sutherland, chairman of managers. The dux of the school is Janet Robertson and the second dux Gertrude Ritchie.
Kilbirnie's annual summer holiday took place on Saturday. A Co-operative excursion to Edinburgh by special Caledonian train was patronised by 900 passengers.
August 7, 1903
A Donaldson liner with a cargo of iron ore had to be turned away from Ardrossan because the harbour was too busy.
The rainfall for July in Saltcoats was 3.93 inches.
At West Kilbirnie golf course. J.A.F. Henderson defeated T. S. Johnston in the final of the Crauford Cup. J.R. Gardner won the monthly medal competition with a net score of 80.
Mr James Kirkwood Campbell, Saltcoats, has been awarded third prize of £2 from students' fund, in Scots song competition in connection with the Athenaeum School of Music.
At the annual meeting Dalry Juniors F.C. it was reported that the club had played 32 matches, won 15, lost 13, draw 4, scores 96 and lost 75. The club has a deficit of £10 16s 10d.
I.O.G.T. , Kilwinning, made presentations to Bros, H Bennet and Arch. Brodie, who are emigrating to America.
Mr John Smith, 16 South Crescent, Ardrossan, who has attained his jubilee as an elder of the U.F. Church of Scotland and of the congregation of St John's Ardrossan, has been presented with an illuminated address.
Master Robt. Law, son of Mr Wm. Law, Barrholm, Kilbirnie has won a free scholarship at Irvine Royal Academy and a bursary of £5 tenable for two years.
Mr and Mrs Wm Moir, Eglinton Street, Beith, celebrated their golden wedding on Wednesday. They were married at Ardrossan where Mr Moir was a joiner with Mr Robert Drape and have resided in Beith for forty years.
August 14, 1903
At a meeting of Ardrossan Town Council a proposal was submitted from Irvine Town Council that Ardrossan should join with Irvine and other burghs of North Ayrshire for the purpose of obtaining a Provisional Order to provide a joint electric tramway for the district. Ardrossan Town Council replied that they could not see their way to join the proposal. Saltcoats Town Council has agreed to appoint a committee to attend at Irvine if requested. Kilwinning Town Council are considering the matter.
The Bill Constituting a joint board for the Irvine Water Works received Royal Assent on 11th inst.
Under the auspices of Ardrossan Town Council, and in aid of local Nursing Association and a fund to organise a burgh band, an alfresco concert was held in Holm Plantation. The artists, secured by Mr Walter Freer, were all known and there was a large turnout.
Alan Riddock, aged 22, who served as a grocer with Mr Wm. Hamilton, general merchant, Whiting Bay, was drowned on Tuesday while bathing.
Kilbirnie Parish Church, after additions, alterations and repairs was re-opened on Sunday. The collections at the day's services totalled about £100.
Last Saturday Ardrossan Winton Rovers and Kilwinning Thistle made there bow in junior circles when the opened the North Ayrshire Junior League programme at Blacklands Park, Kilwinning. Rovers won 2-1.
August 21, 1903
At a cycle parade on behalf of the Saltcoats Burgh Band fund £14 was collected.
Ardeer Foundry sent 11 wagons of ingot moulds (more than 80 tons) to Calcutta this week.
At an angling competition at the Dams, Beith, the winners were: 1, John Richardson; 2, W Duncan; 3, Alex Crawford.
In bowling matches this week Saltcoats beat West Kilbride 65-64, and West Kilbride beat Fairlie 57-56.
August 28, 1903
In the final of the Vice-President's prize at on Ardrossan bowling green, WS McDowall beat William Brown, by 21-14.
Bro W Murdoch was presented by Saltcoats Total Abstinence Society with a writing desk on the occasion of his leaving for Canada.
William Reid has established a new record for Ardeer golf course, 69, his homeward score was 32.
The pupils of Mr S Stewart Scott, Kilwinning, Miss Ferguson and Mr John Douglas, officiated at the Parish Church organ last Thursday.
Robert Paisley, who was a public servant of Kilwinning for 27 years, died on Sunday.
In the final of the championship of Kilbirnie Ladeside Bowling Club, Hugh Hamilton beat William Fyfe jnr 21-13.
September 4, 1903
Dr Andrew Carnegie visited Kilmarnock on Saturday. he laid the memorial stone of a new school, Loanhead School, and received the freedom of the burgh.
Realiance beat Shamrock III in the series of yacht races for the America Cup, winning three of the races.
A Burns statue will be erected at Hartford Conn, at a cost of 7000dollars.
At Stevenston School Board meeting it was intimated that over 70 percent of the entrants for the Leaving Certificate examination had been successful. The boys who passed were:- Jas Watson; Wm. McColl, Wm. Steel, A. Allison, David Kirkwood, Alex Hamilton, James Jamieson.
Mr Joseph Smith of Barrhill Farm, Kilwinning, was found dead on Thursday afternoon in a field between Torranyard and the farm. It appears that on his road home the previous evening he had missed his footing and fallen, his head striking a stone. he was in his 79th year.
At the first annual conversazione of the employees of D Lamlash, Mr Donald Mackelvie, who presided, said the firm commenced in 1830.
A Young man, James Stewart, slater, in the employment of Hall & son, Irvine, while engaged repairing the roof of a building at Laird's blockwork, was fatally injured. Part of his clothing caught on a revolving shaft.
Beith had a triple victory on Saturday. The Volunteers won the Ayrshire Challenge trophy for rifle shooting, the Beith Instrumental band was second in the Dumfries band contest and the football team topped the combination by defeating Morton A by 5 goals to 1.
September 18, 1903
A petition signed by 23 ratepayers craving permission for Seaside Rangers Football Club to play on the public park was considered by Saltcoats Town Council. It was stated that the council could do nothing so long as Mr Wylie's lease of the ground continued and Mr Ross's motion that the petition be granted was defeated by 6-2.
Ardeer Golf Club are taking steps to procure ground north and south of the private railway to Ardeer Factory for the formation of an 18 - hole course.
On Saturday H Hughes, playing a Springvale Eagle ball, drove the second green (207 yards) on Ardeer golf course.
Mr William Begg has been appointed a teacher in Kilwinning Public School in place of Mr David Conn who leaves to enter on his studies at Glasgow University.
Glengarnock leads the way in electric lighting. The Iron and Steel Works were the first in the district, if not in North Ayrshire, to introduce the light , and now it has been installed by Glengarnock Public School.
Dalry United Free Church choir, Kilbirnie, mad a presentation to Mr D Ballantyne, who has retired after being choirmaster for over 30 years. Mr Hugh Watt handed over the gift.
September 25, 1903
A handsome new memorial window has been placed in the New Parish Church, Ardrossan. It is in memory of James Moffat and his wife, Anne Johnston, also his sister, Jessie Moffat and was erected by Mr and Mrs Moffat's daughters.
Disgraceful scenes were enacted at Blacklands park, Kilwinning, last Saturday, during the football match between Kilwinning Eglinton and Maybole.
A new football club has sprung up in Stevenston, The Ardeer Rovers.
The grocers of Ardrossan intimate that from October 1 until the end of April they close their places of business at 7pm. (Saturdays at 10pm).
McLean's Irish Produce Store will be opened at 11 Barr Street, Ardrossan, on Thursday first.
An Ardrossan man, Mr Alexander Brodie, observing his dog sniffing peculiarly at a spot near the new gasworks, searched the spot and found in a hole a gold bangle, a gold bracelet and two medals. The articles were found to be part of the proceeds of a robbery committed in South Beach district three years previously.
October 1,1903
Mr John Glen, who had charge of the machine department in the Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald office, died on Sunday at the age of 69. he was for many years an elder in Landsborough United free Church, Saltcoats.
The death took place on Thursday last of Mr Alexander Love, writer and procurator-fiscal, Beith.
Ardrossan Dean of Guild Court has passed for the erection of a fish-curing establishment for Mr J Reid at Barclays Yard, Ardrossan Harbour.
The golden wedding of Mr and Mrs Hugh Cowan was celebrated on Monday evening at Lonsdale, paisley. both Mr and Mrs Cowan were born in Stevenston.
By the casting vote of Provost Young, Kilwinning Town Council decided to shelve for another year the question over the gasworks.
Kilwinning Bowling Club's prizewinners for the season were Messrs A Speir (championship), J Muir, A Frew, J Paterson, R Crawford, J Stewart, A McIlroy, J Agnew, W Gemmell and A Johnston.
Mr James Walker, baker, has been awarded a third prize in the International Exhibition. The money value of the prize is £10 with an additional £1 to the foreman Mr Robert Reid.
Davies-of-the-Mill Farm, belonging to Mr Robert Reid, Townhead, Beith, has been sold to Mr Dalziel, Kilmarnock.
October 9, 1903
Ardeer Golf Club has decided to to proceed with the laying out of a new 18 hole golf course on the land to the north and south of the private railway belonging to Ardeer factory. W Auchterlonie, St Andrew's favourably reported on the conditions of the ground. The Ardeer Club was formed in 1880 by the late Archibald Robertson and others.
A short leet of two, Mr Blackman, Beith and Mr Wiseman, Glengarnock, has been selected for the appointment of organist and choirmaster of the East UF Church, Kilbirnie.
On the closing game on West Kilbride Bowling Green, the president's side (R Craig, JC Jack, J Oliphant and R Foote) beat the Vice-president's (A Gray, Jas Wilson, A Jack and D Paton) by 90 to 82.
In recognition of the esteem in which Mr Alexander Paiman, Caledonian Railway stationmaster at Kilbirnie and late of Kilwinning, was held, he was honoured by a gathering of Kilwinning gentlemen in the Eglinton Arms Hotel.
Saltcoats Literary and Debating Society has elected Mr John Miller, ex-secretary as president for the session.
In a quoiting match at Reddance, Dalry (Wm Sloan and John Gray) beat Howwood by 25 to 24.
October 16, 1903
Kilwinning Co-op Society's new £7000 building in main Street was formally opened on Saturday following a procession round the town comprising nearly 1000 persons and led by Dalry Brass Band.
A West Kilbride note says: This is the most backwards harvest since 1872.
In Saltcoats Literary Society's debate, "Free Trade" won the vote.
Dalry School Board agrees that books be supplied to pupils in the sixth and supplementary classes.
Miss Orr, late of Bank Street, Kilbirnie, has disposed of her news agency business and departed for Australia.
October 23, 1903
As a sequel to the railway disaster at St Enoch Station, Glasgow, on July 27, when 16 passengers in an Ardrossan - Glasgow train were killed and 22 injured, Henry Northcott, the driver of the engine, was charged with having driven the train into the station at an excessive rate of speed so that it collided with the terminal buffers. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty.
The news of the death of Mr John McDonald, pit oversman, who was overcome by afterdamp at Mossblown Pit, was received with deep regret in Stevenston. he distinguished himself by his heroic work at the Auchenharvie Pit disaster. the funeral was one of the largest ever seen in Stevenston.
The new gasworks of the burgh of Ardrossan were yesterday formally opened. Provost Young turned on the gas and the company thereafter drove to the old gas works which was formally declared closed by the Provost who locked the door.
the new church erected in Glasgow Street, Ardrossan, for the EU congregation of the town was opened on Friday when dedicatory services were held, the preacher being the Rev Ambrose Shepherd, Glasgow. A series of services were held throughout the week.
October 30, 1903
The Beith Hibs FC, in their replayed Scottish Juvenile Cup tie with Oakvale at Kilmarnock, were leading 3-1 when the crowd broke in and one of the visitors was pursued by a mob and had to be escorted to the station by four policemen.
Ardrossan Model Yacht Club have secured a piece of ground close to Celtic Football Club's park, and plans are being prepared for the construction of a model yacht club.
Sergeant Major Ferris, drill instructor of Ardrossan Volunteers, has been presented by officers and men , along with other friends, with a gold watch to mark his leaving Ardrossan. Mrs Ferris was given a brooch studied with pearls.
To an office bearer of Saltcoats Literary and Debating Society, who wrote to Mr George Bernard Shaw asking him to lecture to the Society some time during the winter, GBS replied : "You are not far off. My terms for such a journey merely to amuse a literary society would be about £50,000. You should have caught me when I was in Scotland the other day."
Mr RM Blackwood, Beith, has been appointed organist and choirmaster of the East United Free Church, Kilbirnie.
The memorial stone of Dreghorn EU Church building was laid on Saturday by Hon Thomas Cochrane, MP Under Secretary for Home Affairs. The Rev T McRobert presided.
November 6, 1903
At Stevenston Parish Council Mr Mitchell asked what was the cause of the town clock not striking the hours and the clerk replied - the wire rope broke and nearly brought down the church steeple.
Messrs Fullarton, Chrystie, Goodwin and Harvey were elected for Ardrossan Town Council and Messrs T Miller, PW Hunter and H Arnott for Saltcoats.
Successful candidates in Kilwinning Municipal Election were : John Andrew, 323; William McQueen, 323; James Smith, 322, Unsuccessful were; John McQueen, 319; William Muir, 318; Robert Auld, 217.
At a social gathering of all the workers connected with Landsborough UF Church, Saltcoats, the musical programme was rendered by Messrs Richardson, McIntosh and Gillon, the Miss Colville, McLaughlin and McBride and Mrs Raphael. Mr R Muir composed a hymn.
Arran Conservatives have congratulated Mr Graham Murray on his election to the Secretaryship for Scotland and propose to entertain him to luncheon.
November 13, 1903
Councilor Crawford was appointed bailie by Ardrossan Town Council, and Saltcoats Council elected Councillor Donaldson as bailie and ex-bailie Miller as Police Judge (the first time such an appointment has been made for Saltcoats).
At Ardrossan Town Council meeting Mr Christie complained about the discreditable state of the voters' roll. It was agreed to call the attention of the assessor to the number of errors in it.
Mr John Wilson, hairdresser, Glasgow, who won first prize and championship at Belfast Dog Show with his well-known mustard Dandie Dinmont dog, Kelvin Jack belongs to Ardrossan and 24 years ago was on the Herald staff of employees.
The new Licensing Act comes into operation on January 1, 1904. Irvine and Saltcoats are the only two burghs in the Northern District of Ayrshire that will have separate licensing courts.
Mr Patrick Comrie has been appointed clerk and treasurer to Dalry School Board in succession to his late father.
Mr John Walker of Waterside, Irvine, one of the youngest members of Irvine Golf Club, went round Bogside course recently, equalling the record. he is the third Bogside man to record that score.
November 20, 1903
The co-partnership of Archibald Duncan & Co, family grocers, etc, 39 Princes Street, Ardrossan, of which Archibald Duncan and John Duncan are the subscribers, has been dissolved and the business will be carried on by Archibald Duncan. The witnesses in the petition are:- bells Blair, draper, Saltcoats and Maggie McBride, draper, Saltcoats.
Mr Bruce, gardener, Seafield, Ardrossan, was winner of a handsome silver cup at Beith Chrysanthemum Show.
There has been a revival of the infantile game of marbles in Ardrossan but older players than boys are taking part.
New Parish Church, Ardrossan, after an overhaul, will be opened on Sunday when the recently appointed assistant, the Rev J Kirkland Cameron, will make his debut.
At the congregational Manse, at Glen Sannox, Arran, the Rev Alan McDougall was presented with a purse of sovereigns to mark the completion of the 25th year of his Ministry in Sannox.
Kilbirnie Ladeside beat Ardrossan Celtic 4-0 in an Ayrshire Cup-tie at Ardrossan. Robbie Dobbie was the best forward on the field, Dom McIvor the best half and Larry McDonald the better goalkeeper.
At a social gathering Thomas Steel, the popular outside right of Kilbirnie Ladeside received a marriage presentation. Mr Robert Partridge, secretary, handed over the gift.
November 27, 1903
The third annual poultry and pigeon show at Saltcoats was described by judges and breeders alike as "the best poultry show that has ever been in Scotland". here were 704 entries. Notable among the prizewinners was the Earl of Rosebery who, with eight birds exhibited in the poultry section, obtained two first prizes, three seconds, one third one fourth and on hc certificate. The cup in the pigeon section was won by Mr John Reid, Stevenston, and among principal winners were messrs Reid, Saltcoats, and Davis, Ardrossan.
Three fatalities took place in the district during the past week. Robert Brown, an old employee of Ardrossan Harbour, was fatally injured while working at a winch in connection with the sluice gates; Charles Hutton (28) employed as a baker with Ardrossan Co-operative Society, accidentally fell into the Old Dock and was drowned; and Mrs Maggie Gillon or Rodgers, 5 Arthur Street, Saltcoats, was fatally burned through her clothes catching fire in her home.
Members of the League of the Cross, Saltcoats, staged a play the Shamrock and the Rose. members of the cast included messrs H Kelly, D Whyte, M Reilly, C McCulloch, j Pettigrew, P Keenan, N Coyle, J Leckie, J McCourt and F Connor; and Misses A Milgrew, S Bonnar, L Smyth and M Murray.
Mr James Love upholsterer, King's Road, Beith, sailed last Saturday for South Africa. he has accepted a situation with a cabinet-making firm in Port Elizabeth, where Messrs W Stevenson and John Kerr, also of Beith, are engaged.
Mr Whiteford, Kilmory Public School, Arran, has been presented with a Davenport desk by the children of the school on his leaving to take charge of the public school in Roxburgh.
Dalry School Board have appointed Mr RW Barr, MA to an assistantship in the Higher Department of Dalry Public School at a salary of £100 per annum.
December 4, 1903
The first annual supper and dance of Kilbirnie Ladeside Football Club was held on Friday in the King's Arms Hall and over 70 were present. Mr Hugh Purdie, treasurer replying to the toast of the club, said they were at present leaders of the Scottish Junior Football League and were in the last eight of three cups.
At the Mill Pond on Wednesday Ardrossan Castle Curling Club members played for the Provost Barr Medal. The winners were W Brown's rink.
The death has taken place of Mr Henry Mellon, headmaster of St Mary's RC School, Saltcoats.
Mr Robert Paton, a native of Dalry, has died at Port Jarvis, USA., where he was residing with his daughter, Mrs Elizabeth Elder. He was a well known violinist. America has been his home since 1870 but he made frequent visits to Dalry.
At Stevenston Savings Bank the sum received from depositors during the past year was £267 6s 10d and £94 1s 9d was paid to depositors.
400 boxes of herrings were sent from Fairlie to Glasgow.
Mr David Kerr, Park Farm, Beith, has removed to Town Farm, Kilwinning.
December 11, 1903
There is an alarming increase in criminality in Ardrossan. Six boys were at court on Monday on various charges. One nine year old "highwayman" who knocked down a boy of four years and stole a purse containing 3d was sent to an industrial school for seven years.
A meeting of railway men at Ardrossan agreed to form a local branch of the Amalgamated Society of railway Servants. Twenty one members were enrolled.
The following were on Sunday ordained elders in Erskine Church, Saltcoats; Messrs William Hamilton, John Hogarth, David Melville and John Portsons. The number of elders is 13, the highest in the history of the congregation.
A Roman Catholic chapel is to be built in the sandhills at Auchenharvie, Stevenston. It will be called St John's.
West Kilbride Parish Church Young Men's Guild have presented two pocket bibles to Messrs William and Archibald Montgomery on the occasion of their leaving Meadowhead to take over the tenantship of a farm in Essex.
Stevenston Liberal Association have elected the following office bearers:- The Rev A Morris Moodie and Messrs J Morrison, P Reid, A Wilson jnr and A Banks jnr.
December 18, 1903
At a meeting of Ardrossan United Free Presbyterian, the Rev Charles Lamont, South Beach Church, Saltcoats, intimated that, in the matter of the call to him by Dingwall congregation, he felt he would rather in the meantime continue to labour in his present sphere.
M John Miller, mason, Raise Street, Saltcoats, whose death took place on Wednesday, was one of the best draughts players in the district.
In a debate at Saltcoats Literary Society's weekly meeting on Saturday, Messrs RW Watt and A Stirrat supported Preferential Tariffs and Messrs G Tait and A Taylor spoke for Free Trade. Free traders won the vote by seven to six.
At Stevenston Rechabites' annual social, Bro William McBrown, CR presided, Bro John Scott, secretary, reported that the membership had increased to 200 and their tent was the fifth largest in Ayrshire.
Levoch Cottage, Gateside, Beith, has been sold for £175.
A well-known footballer with Beith FC and Abercorn FC, James Beggs has died at the age of 24.
Mr Robert Thomson, late draper and inspector of poor, Kilbirnie, has died at the age of 87.
December 25, 1903
Mr Albert Beard has been appointed Collector of Customs at Ardrossan in place of Edgar Marable promoted to Barrow.
During the year the sum deposited in the Saltcoats Penny Savings Bank totalled £610 8s 10d. The sum due to depositors at the close of the year was £279 5s 4d. 522 accounts are open.
An old property in Bridge Street Kilbirnie, belonging to Mr Robert Logan has been acquired by Mr James Crawford, baker, for the erection of the bakehouse and shop.
In a billiards match Ardrossan Liberal Club defeated Ardrossan Unionist Club by 5 games to 3 and a majority of 115 points.