Helmsdale.org

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Left by Ron ELY on 2008-04-28 16:59:17

GILCHRIST FAMILY IN HELMSDALE
I am researching my maternal Scottish roots which, currently, lead back to a Clunes GILCHRIST who we believe was born in Culgower around 1787. He was married twice and is buried with his first wife in the Loth burial ground beside some other GILCHRISTs.

An old aunt provided a note written about 1950 relating what the writer had found in a vist to Helmsdale in about 1915. He was told, he said, that 12 GILCHRIST men fought at Waterloo. But it has not ben possible to identify who these might have been or, indeed, how many returned. I am fairly sure that I have identified about four of Clunes brothers and have developed their families but none of this helps with - 'who were the parents'?

If anyone is interested in the GILCHRISTs and who, hopefully, may have some snippets of information that could take me back a generation, I'd love to hear from them.

Clunes started out as an agricultural labourer, then a crofter and finally a fish-curer living on his croft on the Garty shore at Gartymore just outside Helmsdale between the A9 and the sea!

Clunes GILCHRIST married Isobel MacKAY in 1812
They has eight children:
Ann 1813
Christian 1816
Catherine 1818 (Went to Fraserburgh and married a HOWATT)
Robert Nelson 1820 (Discovered gold in Kildonan 1868/9)
Isabella 1822 (Went to London and married a TASKER)
John 1826 (Went to Fraserburgh and married a WILSON)
Rachel 1831 (Went to Fraserburgh and married a REID)

Isobel died in 1834 and Clunes remarried in 1835 to Isabella McPHERSON
They had three further children
Hugh 1836 (Died of TB in 1859)
Roberta 1838 (Married a WATSON and took over Gartymore croft)
Jane 1841

I am happy to exchange information with any other genuine researcher.

Ron ELY (Oxford, England)

Left by Mike Gill on 2008-04-22 20:19:28

To Wendy Simpson - If you contact me, I could perhaps help with information on the Belgrave Arms Hotel.

Left by Mike Gill on 2008-04-22 20:19:28

To Wendy Simpson - If you contact me, I could perhaps help with information on the Belgrave Arms Hotel.

Left by Danielle Barry on 2008-04-22 00:48:35

Hello All, and thank you David and Maureen for this terrific site.

I am searching for POLSON's. Nathaniel POSLON born 1796 in Kildonan, is shown as a Stone Mason from Helmsdale in 1836. He is the son of Alexander POLSON and Margaret ROSS. Nathaniel married Johanna Morrison. Their daughter Margaret POLSON married Hugh ROSS.

Best Wishes

Danielle

Left by Kim Logan on 2008-04-21 03:20:10

I have several Ross’s and Campbell’s from Loth, Durness, Helmsdale Sutherland. I thought perhaps we could exchange some information if any of the below looks familiar.

For example:
Alexander Campbell Miller b. 1756 married Christian Sinclair b. 1760. Their children, all born in Loth I believe, Eupham b. 1787, William b. 1784 and Louisa Luzy b. 1782.

Louisa married Duncan Ross b. 1778 in Durness. They had Hugh b. 1815 pilot, Christy b. 1811, Alexandrina 1822, Margaret 1821, John 1811, William 1806 (he was a grocer on Dunrobin Street Helmsdale) and Alexander 1814.

Eupham (Effie) married a William Ross weaver from Saingomore. (More Ross’s hurray!!)

Hugh died in 1856.
Alexandrina married Maurice Scanlan b. 1815 Ireland
John married Margaret Findlay b. 1813

William Campbell b. 1784 married a Catherine and had two sons, Alexander 1805 and Donald 1807. Donald married Catherine Wallace b. 1819 from Rossshire. Donald stayed in Farr and was a farmer. They had several children.

Hope to hear from someone!

All the best, Kim Logan
Beautiful Vancouver Island

Left by Joan Murray on 2008-04-09 15:42:59

Good to get a minute to catch up on the site

Message for Olivia Elayne Murray:-
Saw your message recently, after being off line for a while.
If you get in touch with me direct, iI may be able to give you some info on Peter Murray

Left by Lorraine cowley on 2008-04-09 14:08:48

Left by Doreen Joohnstone [McLennan] on 2007-11-20 18:45:12.
hi my name is lorraine i know billy millar i have spoken with him, he would like to contact you and chat about life,if you reply to this message with your email or telephone number privately or on this guest book i will forward it to billy at work, thank you lorraine

Left by Veronica Schreuder on 2008-04-06 21:36:14

My grandad William Mackay was born in Helmsdale in 1927 and lived there until near the end of the war when he came to Edinburgh where he still lives. He had a brother called Thomas who has passed away.
We have been up to visit Helmsdale a number of times and I love the beautiful scenery and the people there are always very friendly. Just thought I'd leave a note to say how much I enjoyed looking through the site!

Left by Alison Caswell on 2008-03-24 10:49:51

Hello from Australia. I was overwhelmed to find a site on the very lovely Helmsdale. I fell in love with this little village when I had an overnight stay in August 1997. My husband, myself and our son hope to travel back that way later this year and have another stopover on our way to my birthplace...Kirkwall, Orkney Islands. When checking on B&B's, I was particularly looking for the one that I stayed in back in '97. I can't remember the name of it or the lovely people who ran it, but it was next door to a fairly old and lovely church. It reminded me of a house that my family lived in in Bonnyrigg (just o'side Edinburgh) for a couple of years when I was only a bairn...it used to be a manse. That's how I thought of this B&B in Helmsdale. Can anyone help solve this for me? I'd love to stay there again...

Left by Ian Mackay Hodgson on 2008-03-23 09:34:22

First of all may i say what a wonderful site this is.I was born in Huddersfield yorkshire in 1946 my mother was Barbara Mackay, she had both sisters and brothers namely John,James,May,Katie,Georgie,Jean.
My father was in Helmsdale for a time during the 2nd world war as a seargent with the RAVC i believe with many horses.I spent many school holidays in Helmsdale in the house above the harbour on Dunrobin street with my Grandfather John who is buried in the cemetry alongside my grandmother Mary.Its a long time since i was in Helmsdale but i am sure i will return soon.One of my cousins is John Macculloch born and bred in the village.

Left by Eileen rapson on 2008-03-22 18:23:50

very nice site

Left by Ellen Esseltine on 2008-03-13 22:46:11

Hi from Canada,
My friend and I visited Helmsdale last September, 2007 and stayed at the Helmsdale Hostel. Your town was the highlight of our trip to Scotland and we want to return again this summer. Would any of you know how we could reach Irene Drummond who runs the hostel? All of the phone numbers we have from hostel brochures don't seem to work. Since we've been home and done some research on your area we want to return. This website was part of the reason as we learned that we had missed a great deal of what your area has to offer. Thanks for your assistance.

Left by Charles Rapson on 2008-03-09 01:49:42

Hi David,
This is the first time I've been on the site this year. Boy it's changed and its brilliant (not that it was ever less than brilliant).
Well done. I dont get home too often these days but visiting the site is a bit like getting home.

All the best to the Helmies
Charles Rapson

Left by Alison Murray on 2008-03-05 10:38:22

My husband's father Duncan Murray Strachan was adopted by John and Flora Murray (maiden name Jappy). I am researching my husbands family tree and came across your website. Does anyone have any info regarding either of these families? Flora Jappy was the daughter of William and Margaret Jappy (maiden name McAulay) and she was born in Helmsdale in 1874. My late father in law changed his name to Duncan Strachan Murray, we presume because his adopted parents were called Murray. Duncan's natural birth mother was called Agnes Strachan and I have been able to research this part of the family back almost 10 generations. I would like to hear from anyone who can help.
Thank you, Alison Murray

Left by Peter Dillon on 2008-03-01 02:34:26

Any FRASER descendants left in Helmsdale?

My ancestor Barbara CORMACK had a sister Isabel / Isabella CORMACK married to William FRASER. Barbara & Isabella were sisters born at Watten parish Caithness to Alexander CORMACK & Isobel CALDER. Barbara & Isabella were 2 of 9 siblings born at Watten parish but the family members all left Watten parish.

William FRASER & Isabella CORMACK lived at Helmsdale. They had a large family as follows -

Alexander 1828-1915 a baker at Helmsdale, died Cnoc-chaisteal (House?) Dunrobin St, married Anne Gordon Innes SINCLAIR whom I think was his cousin, the daughter of Barbara CORMACK. Issue were
William 1855-1855
John 1856-1829 (1894=Elizabeth PATERSON c.1861-1934)
Isabella 1858 (1883=Alfred Mitchell WILES)
William 1860-1922 (=Sara? FRANCIS?)
Alexander 1862-1953,
James 1864-1934.
John was a druggist & chemist at Helmsdale, he & Elizabeth had issue Elizabeth Ann 1896-1967 (=Peter ANGUS), Alexander 1897-1917 KIA, James Paterson FRASER 1900-1920.


John FRASER 1829. Still alive 1891 @ Strathnaver St.

Margaret FRASER 1831. Married George YOUNG in 1849 and had issue
Anne Thomson 1851
Isabella 1853 (1875=John IVESTER, they went to Liverpool)
Margaret 1855
Williamina 1860
George 1863
Elizabeth Fraser c.1865/7 (1888=James WOTTON, they went to Liverpool)
John 1869/70
Robert c.1872.

Isabella FRASER 1833-1924. At Strathnaver St 1901.

Catherine FRASER 1836-1922.

Elizabeth (Betty) FRASER 1842-1930. Hotelkeeper, Belgrave Arms Hotel at 1891 & 1901 census. Her brother James was with her in 1891 and her brother Robert was with her in 1901. I assume that Elizabeth is the "Miss FRASER" referred to in the history section of these web pages referring to the 1892 ceremony when the the foundation stone for the harbour was laid.

William FRASER. Married Margaret? Issue
Donald R. 1866
William W. 1868
Robert J. 1869
George R1871
Frederick Simon 1873.
This family was in Lancashire but for some reaon the boys were with their grandparents William & Isabella in Strathnaver St Helmsdale at the 1881 census.

Robert FRASER 1840-1904. Was at the Belgrave Arms hotel in 1901 with his sister Elizabeth (the Hotelkeeper) and nieces Margaret & Gertrude IVESTER.

James Burns FRASER 1847/50-1904. With his sister Elizabeth at the Belgrave Arms Hotel in 1891.

One of the FRASER sons may have had a son Simon FRASER 1854/6 who married Isabella BALLENTYNE.

Anne Gordon Innes SINCLAIR was born circa 1822 at Wick parish, the daughter of John SINCLAIR & Barbara CORMACK. John SINCLAIR was the son of James SINCLAIR the chamberlain (at Thrumster House in Wick parish), son of Donald SINCLAIR the sailor, son of David SINCLAIR of Broynach.

Peter Sinclair Dillon
Christchurch, new Zealand

Left by Iain mackay (jedge) x 1 and 10 glebe terr on 2008-02-29 22:05:48

hi stumbled across web site and felt at home again. im of the innes and mackay familys. my grandfather was james (jedge) innes fisherman of 1 glebe terr my grandmother was bell innes nee cowie. my parents were george mackay who was a barman in the belgrave hotel,my mother is marie mackay nee innes who worked at hunters woolen mill in brora.i was born in 1952 in the pope hosp. if any of you know me please get in touch. thank you iain.

Left by Frank on 2008-02-22 11:01:43

According to the 1991 Census, Helmsdale is the fourth largest village in Sutherland with a population of 861. For comparison, Golspie has 1,657; Brora has 1,922 and Dornoch has the largest population of 2,128. The popluation of the whole county (which probably has more sheep than people) is only 12,810.

Left by Lorna philip on 2008-02-21 17:16:57

I have recently came to stay in helmsdale and would like to know the current population of the village. I cant find this anywhere on the net can anyone put my mind to rest.

Left by George raffan glasgow on 2008-02-18 09:24:29

great website i wish i had the resources to live in helmsdale my two kids whould love it amy and zoe a credit to my helmsdale roots

Left by Wendy Simpson on 2008-02-12 17:50:54

Hi
I am looking for any old photographs or information of the Belgrave Arms Hotel. Can anyone help, Thanks Wendy

Left by Olive thomson on 2008-02-12 16:03:55

I was born in Helmsdale in 1944. My father was in the Lovat Scouts and met and married my mother in the Faroe Isles. Mother got rooms in Strathnaver St from a lady called Mrs Henderson. After the war my Father who was a gamekeeper moved to the west coast. I have passed through Helmsdale but I would love to visit there one day. Regards Olive Thomson.

Left by ANDREW SUTHERLAND ALLEN on 2008-02-07 20:27:08

my mother martha lived here and left probably around 1955 She died 1974 I know she had a sister Betty and a brother called Andrew who i think was married to Agness i think they lived in a train station masters house ,Andrew used to be a fisherman and was keeper on a river ,thats about as much as i know. if anyone could give me any useful info it would be greatly appreciated ,, thanks

Left by Keith Ritchie Brown on 2008-02-06 01:29:08

A family tradition of the Herring Fishing in Fisherrow, Musselburgh. Led me to reading 'The Silver Darlings', by Neil Gunn. A great insight into the effects of the Highland Clearances and Press-ganging in the mid 1800s. Centred on the main character Tormad from Helmsdale I thought I'd look the "Wee place" up a delightful sight and plenty of gossip.
Regards
Keith fae Muchalls.

Left by Maga Nwaguy on 2008-01-24 10:57:02

I was sad to hear the death of William George Jappy .my condolinses go to his family. I will miss the banter down the river. a true helmsdale character who always liked a laugh and a joke

Left by Ker hamilton on 2008-01-18 10:36:44

I was sad to hear the death of William George Jappy .my condolinses go to his family. I will miss the banter down the river. a true helmsdale character who always liked a laugh and a joke.

Left by Onyeze Nwaguy on 2008-01-16 17:16:18

NICE LOOKING SITE ONYEZE

Left by Joan Fishwick on 2008-01-09 16:16:25

Happy New Year to you both.
I am still trying to send you photos, but I am so busy at work and the weekends are taken over.
My sister has just been over from Georgia and we talkked a lot about Helmsdale.
Joan.

Left by Neil philp, from kirkcaldy, fife. on 2008-01-08 21:42:07

My fiancee and her family had a wonderful stay in helmsdale at the weekend, where we visited a few places, most notably the bannockburn, where we had a lovely meal. My fiancee's mother sadly passed away in november last year, and we scattered some of her ashes at the banks of the river, as she had some wonderful holidays with her friends in helmsdale. We were made to feel very welcome by those who we met, special mention must go to a chap called "logie" whom me met in the bannockburn. What a character! We saw why my fiancee's mother fell in love with the village, and we will return soon.

Left by Mike cowie on 2008-01-04 15:34:37

Hi sad to say but 0n 1st january 2008 my father Francis Cowie known localy as {francie ball} Died
Buirial 1pm church of scotland Helmsdale Friday 11th january 2008

Left by Alexander Moore on 2007-12-30 11:22:38

Hello, my name is Alex and I live in Australia.

My paternal grandmother was born in Buckie on the north-east coast and lived most of her life in Portgordon. Her sister lives in a house in Duke Lane thats called 'Helmsdale' because the story that years ago, members of the family fled Helmsdale during the Clearances and named the house they built in Portgordon as a sort of remberance.

While my grannie's maiden name was Cowie [which there are plenty of on the north-east coast] her mother's maiden name was Jappy and I think they're the ones that fled from Helmsdale.
So if anyone knows any stories about the Jappy's or any Cowie's I'd be thrilled to hear about them please.
Thankyou very much and it is a great website
-Alex

Left by Angus Mackay on 2007-12-17 21:08:49

I just found this site, My folks originate from the Dale, the Mackay fishing family-so Im looking forward to a nosey round yer site. Hope theres some pics of the Jeannie Mackay load up with fish to see!!!

Left by Morven MacPherson on 2007-12-01 10:11:41

Hi there,

I would like to get in touch with Davie and/or Maureen McLeod (14 Golf Road). If anybody knows them, please pass the message on. Thanks a bunch.

Morven MacPherson
Northwest Territories, Canada

Left by Rob Flanegin on 2007-11-29 18:25:20

I have an 8 year old daughter who is home schooled. One of her assignments asked the question "Where does your street name come from?" Low and behold, its comes from beautiful Scotland. What a lovely village. Wish we could come by for a visit.

Cheers!

Left by Doreen Joohnstone [McLennan] on 2007-11-20 18:45:12

My mum belonged Helmsdale,her name was Alexanderina cowie,Ispent all my holidays as a child in Helmsdale.We stayed on the shore in a house called Castle View, with my aunt Mary Jane Cowie her nephew Billy Millar stayed with her,i had some lovely times there .Mum had sisters and brothers,Ican only remember a few of their names,Aggie,Peter [Dine]
,Bella. I hope to go up in the spring.1st time in 55years.

Left by B. Michael Rentz on 2007-11-20 16:55:56

I remember how a friend of mine and I once set up a tent at the beach as we just felt like sleeping outdoors. We were backpackers - we of course did take care, that no litter would be left. It was in 1989. The next morning we were politely asked to quit the place because some competition in shooting as part of the Games would soon start, and we´d be within the range... We panickingly grabbed all our stuff, it was very funny, in hindsight, and then went up the hill to watch the highland games which we already had been present at the other year.
I´ve always had a brillant time at Helmsdale, even though it´s just been three times alltogether. I hope I´ll be there again some time in my life.

Left by Hajo & Rosie Petersen, Schleswig, Germany on 2007-11-13 10:14:06

We are glad to be back in Helmsdale for Christmas and New Year and looking forward our visit. The new site is beautiful, carry on David.
Hajo & Rosie

Left by Margaret powrie formaly macdonald on 2007-11-07 16:09:44

i came across your site and enjoyed looking through it, it brought the memories flooding back of carefree summer holidays out playing with no worries of cars,we had such freedom to run about, living in an edinburgh tenement you can imagine how much we looked forward to going to grannies for summer holidays, grannie was annie macdonald and she lived in bayview cottage gartymore, this was between 1942 and 1950,does anybody remember donnie ,ellen,ian and margaret? if so get in touch
margaret

Left by Mark David Keith on 2007-11-01 16:31:20

Site is looking good.Senn my video on Here Edward Mackay Heavy Haulage Another one coming out soon.


Thanks

Mark David Keith
Brora

Left by Moira Michaud on 2007-10-27 23:13:16

Hi everybody,

My name is Moira, I was born and raised in Canada but my mother was born in Hemlsdale, Scotland (she lived on Glebe Terrace). Her name was Margaret Davidson Sutherland. She left Scotland in 1945 to marry a French soldier named Euclide Michaud. If anyone remembers Margaret or anyone in her family, please e-mail me. I would really appreciate hearng from you. I went to Hemlsdale Scotland in 1976 and remember Trails Grocery Store...

Bye for now

Hope to her from ye.

Moira
Cherrios

Left by Margaret Dickson on 2007-10-21 09:27:25

I have always enjoyed checking up on the latest news from Helmsdale and the new site is even better. My sisters in Australia look it up regularly too. We have many happy memories of growing up in Helmsdale.

Left by Onyeze on 2007-10-17 14:03:58

david,this is great site,i will be back sooner
best regards
onyeze

Left by Elsie Sutherland Stuart on 2007-10-09 11:12:21

My grandfather, Alexander Colin Sutherland emigrated from Gartymore in the late 1800's. He helped build the hunting lodges in the area prior to coming to the United States. He worked on the rebuilding of the State Capitol which had been burned by General Sherman during the American Civil War in Columbia, South Carolina. He was fluent in Gaelic and could recite much of the Bible in both English and Gaelic.
We visited Helmsdale in 1962 and 1980. We hope to visit in May of 2008.

Left by Duncan Macleod on 2007-09-27 16:23:25

Many thanks for the updated website. Seeing all the photos revives so many memories. It`s good to catch up on news from the `Dale. I can hardly believe its over eleven years since we left for Perth. God bless you all.

Left by Sean Sutherland on 2007-09-25 16:30:23

hi everyone me again been a while since i was on the site...lookin good as usual...i see davie macloed has written on the guest book...would that be the davie macloed who trained me at aberdeen football....if it is i would like to say a big hello to him you are an amazing coach...take care

Left by Olivia elayne murray on 2007-09-11 01:34:37

I am a second generation canadian my grangfather peter murray born 1886 kildonan,sutherlandshire,scotland .Died 1958 vancouver,british columbia.If anyone can assist me in finding some family much appreciated.peter murray volunteered in ww1 vimy ridge I could not be more proud. elayne murray.

Left by Evelyn Mackenzie on 2007-09-07 18:54:15

On behalf of Helmsdale Community Council I would like to thank you David and Maureen for all your hard work. This is a wonderful site you have done the village proud. The site has gone from strength to strength thanks to your efforts, keep up the good work.

Chairman
Helmsdale Community Council

Left by Joan Fishwick on 2007-08-29 15:14:17

I just want to say thank you because through your Guest book I am now in contact with my relative Ray Harrison, whose parents Harry and Esther lived in Kildonan, Harry was the gardener for the grand house.
I am still trying to find photographs for you and will forward them when I have more time.
Work takes over!

Left by JEAN DEAN on 2007-08-26 10:55:57

I am the great grand daughter of ALEXANDER SUTHERLAND who was born 1 October 1861 in Helmsdale, Kildonian, Sutherland. He married CATHERINE FRANCES ROBERTSON on 29 December 1887 in Glasgow (she died 23 May 1899 in Glasgow). They had 4 children - CHRISTINE, WALTER, JANET MILLER SUTHERLAND AND WILLIAM SUTHERLAND.
Janet is my grand mother - she was botn in Glasgow on 9 April 1893.
I am visiting Helmsdale 11-16 September to trace the family tree and if anyone can help would be most welcome to visit me at the Navidale House Hotel - thank you Jean Dean

Left by John Howard on 2007-08-26 04:06:15

Having spent a couple of years in Helmsdale, I would like to say how much I enjoy keeping up with 'the news' via your website. Previously, in the mid 80's I lived in Spinningdale for 3-years.

I now live in the mountains of Costa Rica, which is very different, but I have fond memories of Helmsdale.

Those interested in gold panning may be interested in the website for a mine I have in Canada. In the mid 1980's, SELCO - the mining division of British Petroleum Resources Canada - spent $500,000 on diamond drilling at the site. This was a prime grizzly bear location - my favorite animal - and mining and the building of roads through the forest would have devastated this, otherwise, unique ecosystem. Fortunately, I was able to buy the land and all the minerals and thus prevent any further exploration and mining. Thus, the bears can hibernate in peace and awaken to a new year.

The website is: www.pan4gold.com

Anyone from Helmsdale and area who wants to enjoy the tropical mountains and monkeys and colourful birds at my site here in Costa Rica will shortly be able to do so - nearing completion is an 'encampamento' where visitors can stay free of charge and explore the jungle and wild waterways that pour off the mountain, including a 3-hour trek to the far side of the property where there is an 80-metre (260-feet) waterfall. The climate is near perfect, the land being at 6,000 feet - never too hot and never too cold. My website has not been updated recently but has basic information:

www.frontiercostarica.com

I reply to all e-mails though it may not be quickly as I only come out of the mountains once every few weeks!

Left by Susan Paterson on 2007-08-22 20:17:38

Well what can I say we had a great time in Helmsdale, Pity It rained for the games on Saturday but we stayed to the end, dispite the rain. my daughter Natalie was chuffed to have her photo taken with Colin Jackson, what a great laugh he was, even though he nearly got hit with a flying haggis. We enjoyed our meals in the Bannock, Belgrave and our strawberry pavlovas in the La Mirage Excelent.We stayed with the Olivers at the Kintyre B & B and made very welcome. Our dogs Teri and Angus enjoyed too,especially playing with Bert the jack russel and the ducks.The people were very friendly and my husband Dave was pleased once again to meet up with Hector McPherson, thanks for a great weekend.

Susan Davie and Natalie Paterson.

Left by Robert Sinclair on 2007-08-22 10:41:39

This is my first visit,enjoyed it very much,will have to come back when I have more time,I am am ex Thurso boy but came to Australia in 64,like to keep in touch with the old places so wenjoyed all the photos,found two photos that I have photocopies of,the one outside an old hotel with horses,I always thought it was a hotel out here?maybe someone knows where it is,anyway thanks for this web site have saved to favorites,will be back Robin

Left by Granny Jackson's on 2007-08-20 01:20:45

Hope you all enjoyed the Games!

We found it amazing that many of he visitors to the Games stayed o the end! Well done! At least one thing can be said...the rain was consistent!

The link below will take you to some videos and photos taken by Granny Jackson's at the Helmsdale Highland Games.

http://www.grannyjacksons.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=22&chapter=30

Left by Shane MacDonald on 2007-08-16 00:29:35

Please pass on a hello to my cousin "Rocket Ron" Ron MacDonald and my email address to maintain contact.

My grandfather (born in Stornaway) lived in Helmesdale with parents and family then moved to Australia when I think he was about 17 to pursue a job hunting rabbits on remote Stations (as he told me, he thought he would have fun shooting them but it was a plague so had to use clubs and dig them out, not fun, very hot). His younger brother John followed. Both successfully establised farms. Both died of heart attacks.

I understand my Dad's (Ian) first cousin Ron MacDonald is still living in the old family house up on the hill South of the village centre.

Best regards
Shane MacDonald
Melbourne, Australia

Left by Kathleen MacTaggart on 2007-08-14 09:15:03

Hi David, What a great web site. I have spent most of this wet day going over things for the games, and then went to get a coffee when I sat down at the computor i went roaming through the site just great. My son from Cumbernauld is on the second you tube video. I see loth has nothing maybe people would like to send you some things on Loth to let them see the views from this lovely place

Left by Helen Cowie on 2007-08-13 19:35:04

I still keep track of whats going on in Helmsdale. Left in 1980 and still visit quite often

Left by Granny Jackson's on 2007-08-13 13:38:11

Granny Jackson's - Purveyors of the Finest Confectionery - is looking forward to meeting the everyone at the Highland Games on Saturday. Here's hoping for a successful, dry and sunny day! Shop online @ www.granyjacksons.com and add yourself as a friend on MySpace @ www.myspace.com/grannyjacksons

Left by Colin Sharp on 2007-08-07 14:53:22

In reply to Susan Paterson, i think your great gran stays up the hill from my gran as she stays in navidale too

Left by Susan Paterson[Fraser] on 2007-08-03 20:06:25

I have been coming to Helmsdale for many years, last year was the 1st year we hadn't been up. My great gran Nellie Ross stayed at HillHouse Navadale, my gran was Mally Waugh[Ross]. My dad was Wull Fraser His brothers Sandy& Mac Fraser. Sheila Elliot[Fraser] his sister had the croft at Navadale until it was sold last year. My husband Davie and my daughter natalie and I are coming up this year for the Highland Games, can' wait. 1999 and 2002 i won the ladies haggis hurling, looking forward to trying again this year.

Left by Colin Sharp on 2007-08-02 10:55:25

Not been to Helmsdale in years, used to be up every year with my dad (Ian Sharp) his step mum is Magaret Sharp, looking at coming back up either this year or next for the highland games, see geordie is chieftan this year, what a laugh he is.

Left by Richard Paxman on 2007-08-01 19:41:22

Ross & Pope ancestors from Helmsdale

My Great great great great grandfather was Alexander “Sanny” Ross of Wester Helmsdale and tacksman of Navidale, mentioned by Donald Sage in his wonderful book about Sutherland and Caithness - Memorabilia Domestica. Sanny Ross is believed to have come from Ross-shire, however he married a good local girl in Williamina Pope, aunt of General George Pope, the benefactor of the Pope Hospital in Helmesdale. I would be interested in making contact with anyone who shares my interest in the Ross and Pope families.

Richard Paxman
Richard@oceanbroadband.net

Left by Sandra Barnes(nee Dodd) on 2007-07-20 21:46:49

Hello David and Maureen,
What a great Web site. I have just been reading through the Guest Book and have come across a relative of mine Quillen Foley. I have sent him an email and hope to hear from him. I left Helmsdale when i was 16 and went to work in London and i do try and visit Helmsdale every year. My brother Stewart Dodd has a house in Helmsdale and we are coming up for the Highland Games so i am hoping to meet up with some old pals. My parents are buried in the village so i will always return to Helmsdale as long as i have a breath in my body. I still keep in touch by phone and letter to Katie and Barry Mckay who are great friends of our family. Thanks again I love to look at the old photos and regards to any of my old school pals. If any of them have read this i would love to hear from them. Regards Sandra.

Left by Graham Williams on 2007-07-08 12:13:22

Sue and I were saddened to hear of the death of Nancy Sinclair. We have stayed in Brora on a number of occasions and it has always been a pleasure to visit La Mirage with the immaculate Nancy in attendance.
Our sympathy goes to all her family, particularly Don
Graham and Sue Williams

Left by David Mason on 2007-07-03 15:51:38

The official unveiling of the Emigrants Statue

By the Rt Hon Alex Salmond, First Minister of Scotland

In Couper Park, Helmsdale

On Monday 23rd July 2007, at 3.00pm (ceremony to commence at 3.30pm)

Left by Davie MacLeod on 2007-07-02 07:04:00

I wonder if there is any way of requesting if any of your viewers from Helmsdale have any knowledge of working or being a patient at Cambusavie Hospital whilst it was a "fever" hospital. I am particularly interested in
the period 1950- 1954.

Any information will be treated with respect and confidence.

Davie MacLeod

Left by Lorna Settle on 2007-06-23 22:32:32

I have really enjoyed looking through your website. My mum, Patricia Sutherland (B 1948) was brought up in Kildonan along with her brother Donald. Her father Ian was gamekeeper for Kildonan Lodge. I have visited Kildonan and Helmsdale many times and will be returning again in August 2007 with my mum and my little boy so that he can see where Gran grew up. Really hoping we can still have access into Kildonan church. Would be lovely to see some photos of Kildonan on the site.

Left by Sandra Barnes on 2007-06-23 15:08:46

This is a very interesting site. I used to live in Helmsdale so it is nice to read all about it. I was sorry to read about Nancy, she was a great friend of my Grans' Annie Cormack.

Left by Cliff PIke on 2007-05-30 23:21:41

Sad to announce the death today of one of Helmsdale's best known faces, my Great Aunt - Nancy Sinclair.

Most people will know and remember Nancy as the Barbara Cartland lookalike who was famous for her larger than life outlook, her kind nature and her wonderful hospitality at La Mirage restaurant in the village.

May she now rest in peace alongside Dally.

Left by Joan Fishwick on 2007-05-24 16:20:48

I returned to Thurso in March for my 40th Weding anniversary and naturally stopped of in Helmsdale.
Lovely memories.
My sister now living in Georgia, USA was born in a nursing home in Helmsdale,my Father taking my Mum from Kinbrace one very windy winter night, and he could not return to me as trees had fallen down on the narrow road.
If anyone remembers me or my family please email me in Wigan. I was Joan Speakman Father station master in Kinbrace in the late 50's - Harry Speakman. I would love any photos of Kinbrace or Helmsdale for my Father to take ovver to USA in July (he is now 85) to visit with my sister.
thank you. Joan.

Left by Onno Doelman on 2007-05-22 07:13:47

I've never been in Helmsdale, but that will change in June.
According to this perfect website, Helmsdale seems to be a very nice and welcoming village which hopefully will, if everything goes as planned, welcome in the near futere two people from the Netherlands.
We want to start a new life in beautiful Scotland, where there's still space and fresh air.
We're very interested in the Othin House on Dunrobin street, so we will take a view in June.
Could someone please tell me more about Othin House, its history and what kind of place it is.
The information of the real estate agent is a kind of summary, so all information is welcome.
Thanks a lot and maybe we'll meet in June.

Left by Andrew innes on 2007-05-11 16:16:18

Keep up the good work david ... great site and lots of work put onto ta ... nice youtube.com of cass

Left by Tom (tommy) cowie on 2007-05-08 12:58:56

i stumbled on your site during my lunch break and it was really great to see so many people and old buildings which were so familiar when i was growing up in the village (1953 to 1973). i remember your wife maureen - think she was in my brothers (curly) class in school - i may be wrong though. keep up the work - it's a great site - will have a trawl through my old photo's and see if there are any worth sending to you

Left by Stewart mackay on 2007-04-21 21:01:47

my granfather jack mackay died last year. he was a son of helmsdale it was in his heart until the end. he married pat mackay whilst in the scotsgaurds just after the war and settled in chertsey, surrey. i cannot claim to be a scot but i am a mackay. i have never been fortunate to visit my homeland but i will bring my son also called "jack" mackay to the land my grandad held so dear.

till then, helmsdale.

stewart mackay (29)
addlestone surrey

Left by Jackie smith on 2007-04-16 16:47:04

very nice web-site.
my name is jackie smith and my grandmother, sally brown (1896), was raised by christina (munro) durning of helmsdale. my family may not be blood relatives of the munro’s, however, my grandmother considered them to be her family and had many fine memories in the area.

christina’s parents were george and margaret (mccaskill) munro. george was a tenant farmer. christina married a hugh durning and had three children of her own, margaret 1884), hugh (1886), and christina (1891), all raised in clydebank. the children would visit the highlands in the summer. christina (mother) died in 1930. christina (daughter) was a highland dancer. i don’t believe any of her children had children, but am not sure about hugh. hugh may have worked on the farm in the early 1900’s and also may have moved to the us.
margaret worked for singer in clydebank for many years.


christina (1851) had siblings: william (1854), george (1858), and margaret (1865).
i believe that margaret married a george gray and had several children, james (1890), barbara (1891), john (1892), margaret (1895), and georgia (1897)
i believe william had a daughter helen.

if you are related or have any information, pictures etc. on the munro/durning/gray family, i would appreciate your help as i am trying to figure out why christina raised my grandmother, and what her life was like before she moved to the u.s.

thank you,


jackie smith
snipehunter@msn.com

Left by Fiona mackay on 2007-04-11 22:22:46

i enjoyed this site because it reminded me of how beautiful helmsdale is and its not just a boring village it showed me that if you looked close enough youll find what your looking for but along with that you cant judge a village by looking at it just like you cant judge a book by its cover

Left by Nicola crowie on 2007-04-06 20:08:43

very interesting site,i enjoyed the old photos. my grannys' cousin sarah elizabeth macnicol married lewis murray in 1914.he was from caen,son of john murray and barbara gunn. i was looking to see if i could find out anything about his family.

Left by Sean sutherland on 2007-03-24 22:34:18

hi again wondering if any body is goin to get in touch with me or not please email me

Left by Jimmy munro on 2007-03-21 11:40:48

great site. been to helmsdale twice to visit my aunt audrey and uncle stewart munro. beautiful place.

Left by Donald main on 2007-03-18 20:00:33

born in glebe terrace, helmsdale in 1941. father john,was in the war serving in the scots guards.grandfather alex often took me fishing in the jlc (boat). any of the main or cowie (cousins) family please get in touch.

Left by Terri baston nee etheridge (john) on 2007-03-16 23:31:06

left by terri baston nee etheridge (john) on 2007-03-16 23:23:58

i have read through the guest book, love seeing old photos of the town and old family friends, i would love anyone who has any pictures of my father, john etheridge, when he was growing up to please post them on the website or send to my email account. i would be greatful for any stories also.
thank you very much in advance,

terri baston
eb4751@bris.ac.uk

Left by Sean sutherland on 2007-03-04 21:56:37

hi scotland my name is sean sutherland i dont know if any of you will remember me.my sisters name was anna dawn sutherland she moved to canada and i moved with her for any one who would like to contact me or my sister my email is scotty_scotland69@hotmail.com

Left by Joan fishwick(nee speakman) on 2007-02-14 16:12:51

your site showing helmsdale is very interesting. i lived at the station house, kinbrace in the 50's. my father was the stationmaster, and i have wonderful memories of living there, expecially when i saw the station house, now a private home.
above the station office i had my play room. many hours of pretend play up there.

Left by Elaine rapson on 2007-02-13 14:34:45

i was delighted to see photos of my late husband edward rapson in the "helmsdale family photos" section. i still miss him dearly. kindest regards to all his family in helmsdale from all his family in thurso.

Left by Catriona miller on 2007-02-08 14:25:27

this is a really good site. i only moved a few miles north to dunbeath. often have a look on here to see what's happening as even though i'm not far away, i still lose touch with what is happening.
love reading the guestbook!

Left by Michael hilton on 2006-12-17 21:37:20

hello
greetings from manchester hope all who know me and andrew have a great christmas see you all in may, hi to james margaret jean and richard of torrish estate

Left by Christine mcdonald on 2006-12-14 04:40:04

greetings from new zealand. are there any sutherlands in helmsdale who are descended from hector sutherland - born abt 1812 - whose son alexander emigrated to new zealand in the 1860s. hector was a boatbuilder. can't wait to visit your beautiful town in search of our family roots.

Left by Lisa pearse on 2006-11-08 14:59:05

forgot email!!

Left by Lisa pearse on 2006-11-08 14:52:08

well where do i begin!! helmsdale has been stuck in my mind for 4 years...on travelling up to john o'groatson the a9 we came along round the bend to the most beautiful place i have ever seen and i fell totally in love...now remarried my husband and i would love one day to buy a plot of land and build our home in scotland..he has his ideas and i definately have mine!!! i would love to fill my dream and live in helmsdale if anyone knows of anyone in the future who would be interested in us aquiring apart of their land could you let me know...we have started the ball rolling and have today put our house on the market so we can save like mad to have enough money to buy the land outright so please can anyone keep me informed must and utterly greatful!!!
lisa

Left by Donald logie on 2006-11-07 14:23:11

this is a great site and always cheers me up when i am working abroad. the guys i work with agree and it gives me great pride when i show them where i live and the people i know. well done to everyone involved.
left by donald logie nov 7 2006

Left by Elaine anderson on 2006-11-04 17:25:08

mckay family history/tree?
i have been researching my family tree and discovered that john mckay was married to jessie bannerman in 1862,john was a joiner and carter. john's father was william mckay from west helmsdale. any further information on the mckay family would be a great help.
this site has given me so much helpful information and an insight as to the life of my ancestors. many thanks, elaine

Left by Martin murray on 2006-10-01 13:09:39

i really enjoyed the look into the past and will hopefully pay a visit in the near future. i was looking for anything i might find regarding my grandfather (papa) sinclair campbell. i did not see him in any photos but they do open your eyes to the past.
my regards to the locals.
hopefully see you soon.

Left by Ann hampson on 2006-09-26 04:45:15

my grandparents were robert and minnie scott nee polson. robert was a well known shepherd and won many cups at the sheep dog trials. their last address was 9 golf road helmsdale.

my great grandfather was william polson brother of john polson mentioned in scattered helmies. john emigrated to new zealand in 1862. one of his descendants adair polson genge has written a fascinating book about the polson family history in new zealand.

my aunt mary hodson nee scott died in london recently aged 97 she was born at duible.a wonderful lady.
ann hampson in gosport hants

Left by Terri baston nee etheridge on 2006-09-25 19:46:23

i am the grandaughter of the late arthur & marion etheridge of stafford street.daughterof the late john etheridge,nieceof donnie & jean etheridge of helmsdale ,eddie & rena etheridge brora.;daisy & stan taylor of southampton.cathy & olon lynch usa

Left by Ann hampson on 2006-09-16 16:47:14

john george diefenbaker who was prime minister of canada1957 to 1963 was the great grandson of a george bannerman from kildonan who emigrated to canada about 1812.george had a son john who married flora campbell their daughter called mary flora bannerman married william diefenbaker and had the famous son! my great great grandmother was a bannerman from helmsdale could i be related? fame at last! ann hampson

Left by Lynda greaves (nee bowie) on 2006-09-05 14:01:18

thanks for the photos of inness family my new found cousins, james, cathel and andrew. james and i have been catching up on family members and i enjoyed my look around helmsdale, i now feel closer to my new family. australia doesn`t seem so far away and i hope to one day visit scotland and see where donald bowie (pop) was born and bred. thanks again, will visit the site again. lynda

Left by Quillen foley on 2006-09-03 02:39:57

in doing some family research i found your site. i visited my granfather james cormack at his home they called black muir,in helmsdale in 1970. he was son of alexander cormack (my great grandfather) who also had a brother danial both helmsdale residents. he was born in 1898 in navidale. my mother said they lived by the beach and worked navidale farms. he came to america after wwi after residing in the bronx for awhile they moved to grenwich, conneticuit. but moved back to helmsdale in the mid 60's. he took the last voyage of the queen mary out of ny city to go home. he lived there for several years before returning to us in california where he passed away in 1981. i enjoyed looking at the old pictures. the one on the 9th page the 2nd one down with the 3 men on the ship deck. anyway the guy to the left looks the way my grandpa did as i remember him.i remember him telling the story of the beached whale. he had alot of trinket and souvenior things that he found on that beach. when he moved back to the states some time in the 70's he resided in the santa barbara area of california over looking the ocean a familiar view for him. thankyou i enjoyed my visit quillen foley

Left by Les fraser on 2006-08-29 06:02:04

love the old photos.my mother is margaret mary mackay who was born helmsdale in the pope hospital in 1938.my grand parents,were robert and margaret mackay who lived in 24 gartymore.i myself visted helmsdale in 1980 where i met marion raffan and son who gave us tour of the old house.would love to here from anyone that new my family kinds regards les fraser

Left by David mason on 2006-08-23 18:51:37

hi ruth, if you can email me i will send the images to you as attachments. regards, david mason

Left by Ruth reynolds on 2006-08-23 15:35:31

hello

we have bought "skylight house" in dunrobin street, and plan to move there in about 7 weeks. skylight house is the old co-op building. we notice that there are a few old photographs of the co-op as it was then, and we would love to have copies of them to frame and hang in skylight house. i think it would be very fitting to have photographs showing the house as it once was.

please can you tell me who i contact in regard to asking if it is possible to obtain/buy copies of these photographs?

i regularly visit your website, it is goldmine of information and has helped us a great deal!

thank you

ruth reynolds

Left by Fred webster on 2006-08-23 08:37:18

i miss the family in helmsdale and look forward t our next vist.

Left by Norrie flannigan on 2006-08-17 11:01:15

a great web site. my parents kived in bonar bridge and i was born in helmsdale in the pope maternity hospital in 1951. i have only visited the town once since but can feel another, longer, visit coming on!

Left by John hunter on 2006-08-15 18:52:51

i thought the site was brilliant,im looking forward to visiting the area,even thinking of moveing up there,it looks as there is community spirt lacking in other places,im a scott from the lowlands,and ive allways wanted to stay in a lovely place like helmsdale,god i hope your listening,and grant me my wish.

Left by Shona currie (nee sutherland) on 2006-08-13 23:35:24

the helmsdale web site is great and brought back some fond memories. about 30 years ago, when i was aged about 10, i used to visit helmsdale, when on holiday in embo, to see my great aunt nellie. i cant remember the street name where she lived but see to recall it was at the back of the village. also visited some of my dad's (jackie sutherland) cousins- a large family by the name of cowie i believe (they lived in the same street as aunt nellie. having come accross your web site by chance, i really must visit again!

shona

Left by Elizabeth gair on 2006-08-08 15:51:49

i was amazed at the polson letter .i paid for a serch on my family and found a ann polson married an alexander mackenzie west helmsdale
their grandson adam mackenzie born 1853 lotherton west helmsdale sailed to new zealand in 1877 with his wife and baby
adams wife returned to england around the 1890s
a widow i cannot find adams death
isabella was his wife she was isabella birnie watson from pitsligo the daughter of william watason and elonor munro
born 1859

elizabeth gair nee mackenzie

Left by Mrhood on 2006-07-31 10:42:37

i'm italian and i was in holiday in helmsdale in the '97, in the youth hostel i have meet my german girfriend, now we are happy married and with a wonderful child.
thanks helmsdale!

Left by Alan & delyth north wales on 2006-07-26 21:10:06

while recently travelling to the orkneys with my work, my wife and i had the good fortune of staying in helmsdale, and enjoying what must be the best fish & chips on the planet from le mirage, cheers.

Left by Edward on 2006-07-25 03:56:15

enjoyed a lot!

Left by Barbara gilbert on 2006-07-22 16:11:39

enjoyed reading history of helmsdale. am ancester to william bannerman macdonald (b: 1813) in helmsdale - married marion margaret murry (b:1815)moved to nova scotia around 1846 - they had 11 children - gave each child middle name of bannerman. name given to his grandfather for bravery in ???war. is there anyone that can help me find information regarding his parents and /or grandparents and what life was like in helmsdale in the early years. thank you for any help.
barbara gilbert, usa

Left by Mark almond on 2006-07-16 23:22:14

great nephew to jimack,geordie,reenie and janet sutherland,grandson to betty.

Left by Nick davies on 2006-07-10 06:50:02

i live in sydney australia and on the 19th june came to helmsdale for a week of salmon fishing. i have never been to the north of scotland or fished for salmon before but the memory will stay with me for ever!

the hospitality from the helmsdale people (particularly in the bridge and la mirage) was great and a bonus of a 16 pound salmon made my trip very special. thanks also to nancy and don.

i think my waistline is recovering from the excess of good living, but who could resist?

it was a long trip to the uk and a long drive up to helmsdale but i would do it again tomorrow, given half a chance. i would again have to rely on johnny hardy to help me with my fishing techniques! he told me that his singing and joke telling was all a part of the deal - thanks johnny for holding my hand..literally!

i look forward to coming back before too long

Left by Nigel turner on 2006-07-09 17:56:04

hi,
loved looking at the old photo's, i was looking to find my great aunt nellie ross, she lived there around 1930-40, or so my mum thinks, memmories are a little vague. my mum went there by train at age 14....a 24-hour journey from the midlands. she remembers getting off the train in the village and then having a short ride in a taxi to nellie's house. i dont suppose you have any contacts who might be able to establish any dates, relatives (angus i believe was one) or further information, many thanks and again congratulations on a wonderful website.
nigel

Left by Mike spark on 2006-07-07 13:15:28

my son sean robertson moved up to helmie last year from perth .iwould like to thank all the teaching staffat the primary school and for all the locals for making him feel welcome,thanks again.

Left by George on 2006-07-05 09:14:20

what a great site

Left by Mark david keith on 2006-07-03 19:33:11

i love the old photos and helmsdale is second best


mark jnr

Left by Jennifer lienig on 2006-07-02 17:51:27

my name is jennifer lienig, from switzerland, and i do have a little question, i hope you can help me.
i used to write emails with my penpal called william macconnor, he's from kildonan. he started a world journey last summer and promised to write me and he wanted to be back in december. as there happened many bad things in this year, i'm worried about him, as he hasn't written anything to me.
unfortunately i only know his name and that he's from kildonan. his father does have a pub i think, and will plays the bagpipes, i don't know in what kind of a band though.

i really want to know if he's fine, if he maybe lost my address or if he's jsut fed up with writing, who knows. so, do you have any idea how i can find his address or how i can find someone who might know the pub or even will himself?
it would be great to hear from you, kildonan seems to be too small to have an own homepage.

best wishes,
jenny

Left by Elaine smith on 2006-06-30 21:18:36

dear david
i hope that it was you who outbid me on a helmadale postcard on e-bay the other day. if so, please display it on the website to compensate for my loss.
best regards
elaine

Left by Shug taylor on 2006-06-24 12:57:45

hope to make it up this year so cliff pike can buy me a dram in the beer tent, or any one else for that matter, great web site always enjoy having a nose so i can tell my mother in law(moira munro nee sinclair) whats going on in her native village.

Left by Margaret bruce on 2006-06-14 08:35:47

was wandering through some web pages and came across your village.my children`s ancestors, the bruce family originated from helmsdale back in the 1840`s through their father.they went to s.aust. by boat and there are many bruces living in this region of australia.

Left by Charles and julie on 2006-05-24 11:14:14

we have enjoyed looking at the webpages and as we are visiting scotland in september, staying at inverness for 6 nights, we will make one of our days a visit to helmsdale. the photos are lovely so hope the weather is good so we can use our camera to take back memories!

Left by Pat leonard-coventry,west midlands on 2006-05-17 15:38:18

spent some happy times around helmsdale and the strath while working @ dounreay on contract - in fact just missed out on buying a property @ marrel but i shall keep trying

Left by Jessica hopgood on 2006-05-11 20:36:01

i think that it is really interesting what happens in helmsdale and also and can see some things that my grandma has been doing, marydudgeon.

Left by Amy peters on 2006-05-11 12:11:39

my great aunt lives here and her daughter used to own the la mirage chippie. its well cool

Left by Martin briscoe on 2006-04-30 17:32:41

i was reading the report in your newsletter about the visit to the raf chain home radar station at loth. i wonder if anyone locally knows anything about the raf chain home low radar station at navidale. some of the buildings are still there but there is a report in one book (rdf1) that it used the roof of the navidale hotel for a time, probably before the main site was built - does anyone know more about this. i take it that the structure on top of the hill above there is nothing to do with the radar station?

martin briscoe

Left by Ellie gunn on 2006-04-16 01:18:54

thanks for the photos and information about helmsdale. i am planning a visit in late july 2006 and hope to wander up the river. perhaps i'll send some photos when i get home. ellie from oregon, usa

Left by Sophie wyllie on 2006-04-12 10:12:59

i lived in portgower with family in 2001,we moved in 2003 i went to school in helmsdale with my sister mollie . we would like to hear from anybody who were our friends.hear are a few names of some people ,audrey pearson,amy mc cloud,clair loggie,abby rhona and anybody elts that new us.please get in touch sophie and mollie.xxx

Left by Mark david keith on 2006-04-05 20:10:42

very good:) keep up the good work

Left by Brian blair on 2006-04-05 10:24:13

hi,

wonderful website, a great resource. my mother's family lived at caen in the early 20th c and my g granfather was river watcher. my aunt "mime" lived in helmsdale all her days and i have spent many a happy holiday there and now my children do too. my mum still has cousins living in helmsdale and it will always be a special place for me. i bet you have had a good snowy 2006 so far!

Left by Margaret warren formerly cowie on 2006-03-20 21:30:37

great website - well done!

my cousin margaret (durn) cowie (seine net queen) is in old photos 2 as are my parents - james (jimmon) cowie and bessie cowie (a fisherman's ball) and not his brother sander and wife teenie as stated.

my auntie mabel cowie lives in the village also some of my cousins. if granny margaret cairns was formerly cowie she is probably one of my cousins. angela bates (cowie) is my twin.
thanks

Left by Andrew sutherland allen on 2006-03-20 17:17:32

my mother martha lived here and left probably around 1955 i know she had a sister betty and a brother called andrew who i think was married to agness i think they lived in a train station masters house ,andrew used to be a fisherman and was keeper on a river ,thats about as much as i know. i have few memories of this place ,i visited in 1966 with my mother, and am thinking of visiting in the summer if anyone could give me any useful info it would be greatly appreciated ,, thanks

Left by Mark thomas on 2006-03-20 00:40:55

cold, damp, wet and miserable. waited 5 mins and the sun came out!! warm, dry and smiling again!!
area of 4 seasons in a day- beautiful when the sun is shining- stay in the pub when its not!!
friendly locals.
great- ill be back!

Left by Annonomous on 2006-03-14 18:49:27

come on the helmie

Left by Angela cowie now bates on 2006-03-12 15:41:05

ileft helmsdale in 1963 my father was jimmon cowie my auntmabel cowie still lives in the village asdo many of my cousins.the website is marvellous

Left by Naomi macleod on 2006-03-12 13:16:09

hi what information do you have on the mcleod family of helmsdale my grannie is from there but she relocated to australia after second world war and it's mcleod family mc she married another macleod (mac) out here in australia but all her sisters and brothers stayed in scotland. thanks naomi macleod

Left by Mandy cairns on 2006-03-07 18:30:20

hiya all ma cousins and family in manchester jst writing this 2 show use we have seen your messages....liam i added u on msn...so hopefully tok 2 ya soon!

love yas all
missing u loads
mandy xx

Left by Liam cairns on 2006-03-02 21:34:18

i rote a letter and none ov the cairns family have got back to me so could you please ask the to get back to me thank you liam cairns p.s. love you loads granny and uncle andrew and auntie helen and kids

Left by Liam cairns on 2006-02-27 18:50:52

i would like my granny margreat cairns to please write back to me and i would like my uncle andrew cairns to get mandy billy and andrew and kevin if any of them have msn messenger please add my contact so i could keep in touch with you (liam_mufc@hotmail.com)

Left by Hollie cairns on 2006-02-23 17:53:45

i have been looking on the site and i am just wondering if you can send me a copy of any photos ao the cairns family i am margret cairns granddaughter and i would really like some old photos of my dad as you might no he is not with us any more god rest his soul! i love my dad and just want some more photos of him when he was younger thank you so much.
if you need any info please contact margret cairns.

Left by Keifer cairns on 2006-02-22 21:08:57

i would like to say hi to all my family.and i would like to say hi to granny margaret cairns and andrew cairns and helen p.s plz get back to me

Left by Alan wales on 2006-02-22 16:53:25

great site lovely part of the world see you in july for great fishing

Left by Gareth cairns on 2006-02-22 10:35:09

i like ur web sight coz i normally go to my grannys up in helmsdale shes called margret cairns i was looking on your family photos and there are non of the cairns"s so if u could try and get some pics of them i would be greatful thanks

Left by Shaun squire on 2006-02-17 19:42:18

excellant site ,very informative living in somerset england and coming up in march on holiday,to view houses with the intention of moving to your wonderful village,looks very friendly place to live with my family.once again great site.

Left by Eleanor ronald (nee bremner) on 2006-02-15 13:58:06

very interesting and informative website.

Left by Irene jones on 2006-02-02 14:45:31

thank you david for a look into my grandfathers past. granddad, thomas tulloch was born in helmsdale in 1874 so this has been a wonderful experience for me to read about the history, view the photographs and take me back in time. i will be back again to visit your very informative website on helmsdale.

Left by Victoria on 2006-01-30 14:15:09

great job david - the site looks really brilliant. and thank you for all the additional work you've done on the timespan website which is looking fantastic.

Left by Brian on 2006-01-30 11:57:01

congratulations, on a very good information site, thanks

Left by Alistra on 2006-01-28 14:52:02

good to see the guestbook working again

Left by Cathel on 2006-01-27 23:22:36

good to see the guestbook back looking forward to checking it out ..well done david