WEST WORD
Community paper for Mallaig, Morar, Arisaig, Lochailort, Glenfinnan
Glenuig, Knoydart and the Small Isles

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West Word Guest Book

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If you wish to contact any of the people below regarding their geneaology enquiries, please email the editor.
We are not displaying their people's addresses on the web site otherwise they are likely to receive a lot of spam.

I came to Morar (Meoble) in 2004 looking to identify folk in my father's photographs from the late 1930s. Some of the people were eventually identified but, sadly, most had passed on of course. The kind folk who put me up at Meoble have left now. Ann Martin was a contact back then but I have not done anything since returning to NZ later that year. I went to the Agricultural Show at Camusdarach and thoroughly enjoyed the day. Hope that trombonist in the silver band is still winning tossing the sheaf! I hope one day to return to Mallaig - you are all so lucky to live in such a beautiful and historical part of the world. Kind regards.
Helen Harker (New Zealand)
18 July 2008

I appreciate this site, and I'm always looking for tidbits about M(a)cDougall lines. I can go to Archibald McDougall, married to Margaret Campbell, having a son, Donald, registered at St. Andrews Presbyterain Church, New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, in 1823. What information does the fact that some MacDougalls are Roman Catholic and others are Protestant give us? Why are there so few MacDougalls compared with other names? Do any of the facts above strike a cord with anyone? One line of questions I'm following deals with the descendents of John McDougall, blacksmith to the 82 Regiment, who received a 100 acre land grant in Merigomish, Nova Scotia. I'd be glad to hear from anyone who even has a clue that might add some clarity to these questions.
Bonnie MacDougall (Campbell Hall, New York, USA)
18 July 2008

Trying to find desendants of my grand mother Kate MacDougall, c1872,from Eigg and discovered your site.Her siblings were Ina, Jessie, Joanne, Effie,and Mary.paents John and Marion MacLean, grandparents Laclan MacDOugall and Catherine Colquhoun. Anyone with any knowledge of families then I would love to hear from you.
Caroline MacDougall MacCrone (Northampton)
18 July 2008

A fascinating read. I particularly enjoyed Stephen MacDonald's bird report. I am planning a visit to the area and it is useful to see what's going on. Best wishes.
Peter Driver (Berkshire)
4 July 2008

I was reading the Times Online Scotland news and clicked on an article on Kinloch Castle, Isle of Rum and once read could not read enough about this intriquing island community. I would love to be able to help restore the old castle. Of course, my dream trip is to visit Scotland one day and my heritage going back to the Kerr's of Ferniehurst, etc. I would fit in over there quite nicely(red hair, fair skin) as long as I didn't open my mouth. Nice to read about Humanism as well. Toodles and hopefully will hear from you soon.
Becca Kerr (Cumming, Georgia USA)
3 June 2008

Can anyone direct me to where I might find family history records for John McDonald who according to 1851 Census in Glasgow was born in Arisaig, Inverness about 1827. His parents were Ann McDonald, also born Arisaig about 1801 and Simon McDonald, deceased at the time of 1851 census
Linda Kaden
1 June 2008

My daughter & I will visit Scotland in September. As we will be taking the train ride from Ft. Williaim to Mallaig I was scouting the internet for information on your location. I found the WEST WORD and was delighted to read the articles. It beats a tourist brochure at learning the true personality and current "happenings" of the area.
Beverly Gibson-Magel (near Seattle, Washington, USA)
30 May 2008

My ancestors came from Arisaig in the late 1700's. I Love reading about the old home town
Colin W. Gillis (North Easton, MA 02356 USA)
19 May 2008

I am not long back from my third visit to Eigg, once more the hospitality was great, Donald made us work hard but it was more than made up for with Mharies magic cooking, got to be the best pinneapple upsidedown cake ever, yum.
I cant wait to sample the menu in the new bar/restaurant soon to be opened at Lageorna and take this opportunity to wish Sue and Alistair all the best, it looks great and the new bedrooms have beds to die for, I know cos i nearly died carrying them in ha ha.
I sailed from Arisaig this time, under the capable hands of Ronnie, no mammals in the water this time, but I know I will have this treat at some point.
Go to Eigg, the people will make you more than welcome and the views will chill you out and relax you for sure, I was sorry I had to leave, but will be returning soon.
June (Glenluce, South West Scotland)
10 May 2008

spent many happy years in mallaig from 1940----to1980 my mother was schooled in mallaig in the early 1900s still have some relations there yet. but getting fewer there were a lot of downies in mallaig then
Albert Downie (Fraserburgh)
9 May 2008

Just a quick reply to last month's Intenrnet Guest Book from Albert Watt-Downie, Fraserburch. He mentioned the fishing vessel "Craighaugh". Recently another mention wad made of "Silver Searcher" by Stanley Dauncan. I am the grandaughter of the man who owned both these boats and would like to give a little background to them. Grandfather comissioned the build of the "Craughough"at Forbes Yard in Sandhaven in 1914. It was scapped in 1954.
Johnan Cameron (Corpach)
1 May 2008

Our people came from Eigg..mother's people(Kennedys) from Canna..have been in Moidart (Fergie MacDonald's place) and Morar (Allister MacLeod's) and Mallaig (Alasdair Gillies) and Lochailort (alex Duncan's) as well in Glenuig( Angus,Iain and Allan MacDonald (the Whalers)..most recent visit 'home' was in 2004-look forward to return visit..Slante Mhath!
Jack MacIsaac (New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, Canada)
29 April 2008

Hello, I am a MacKinnon descedentliving in Oregon and learned my clan is from from the Isle of Mull. My great,great,great grandfather,John MacKinnon married Flora Campbell and sailed to Prince Edward Island Canada. Their son, Archibald married a Mary Crowley, most likely Irish and therfore Catholic and moved to New Brunswick. I think from thereon he did not have any communication with his family. How sad. I have lots of relatives in PEI that don't know of us exist. Flora and John had many children. If any one knows of these folks please email me. Your Ilse has kept better records. I have a friend in England, Tim McKinnon who's Dad ran away from the your Ilse around 1960's but he won't talk about his childhood. That cheats us-- the heirs. Cheers from The States. I hope to visit someday. I will travel to Isle of Mull On April 24th but don't think I can get to skye. Presently in a conference in Somerset,England.
Peggy Doherty (Portland, Oregon)
15 April 2008

Imagine my surprise - my father, Floyd MacDonald, born in Creignish, Nova Scotia had passed away from cancer in Jan '04 and I have been missing him as of late. I decided out of interest to search for references to him on the Internet and lo and behold I came across your on line magazine. There is a lovely article making mention of him and his trip to Scotland in the summer of '03 before he passed. My family I am sure had no idea this piece was written about him and I can't wait to show it to them. That trip was very very important to my father and his research and I am honoured that he made an equal impact on the people he was able to connect with while visiting your lovely country. I just want to thank you for publishing that information and for making a (not so little anymore) girl proud all over again of her very special dad.
Susan MacDonald (Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada)
10 April 2008

Hello everyone! Rhys has just been to visit us here in Iceland and it made me think a lot about the Small Isles. I hope you are having a great time, all of you. I am finishing my first year of my business studies here in Reykjavík at the same time as looking after lovely Ýmir who is a walking and talking happy 17 months old boy. Looking forward to seeing you all again sometime in the future. Lots of love from Ragnhild, Höskuldur and Ýmir
Ragnhild, Iceland (known as Reggie in Scotland)
7 April 2008

I believe that my ancestor Allan Mac Quarrie came from the Isle of Rum .I also have MacKinnon and MacLean ancestors.On an interesting journey to find out the facts.They were part of the highland clearences.Guess i would not be here if it had not happened.My grand-father Rufus Martin became a mover and a shaker as a railway suprintendent.His mother was a school teacher Sarah MacQuarrie.Her father Allan was born in Scotland.He ran a grist mill in Port Hastings Cape Breton and was very involved in spreading the gospel as a elder and colporteur.Is there any history of the times before 1826 that I could read?
Madeline Flewwelling Taylor (Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada)
30 March 2008

I have enjoyed keeping up with the news in Arisaig as my mum spent all her youth there...she was born in Glasgow and taken to Arisaig about 1924 or 25 to be brought up by the MacDonald family in Back of Keppoch...she had happy memories of her years in Arisaig...She died in 2004 and her wish was for her ashes to be placed in the church in Arisaig so that is where she is now..I only wish that someone from the MacDonald family had photographs of my mum and her sister Agnes, she spent every year of her adult life returning to Arisaig, only for a week, she was on holiday in 2002 with a neice, she stayed in Fort William because it was a special coach trip, they had a day trip to Arisaig, she was so excited, but that night she took a massive stroke, she spent 6 weeks in the hospital in Fort William , she never spoke again either but we allready knew that when the time came and she passed away she would be in Arisaig again. The priest at the time gave her a lovely little service and we placed her ashes in a lovely little corner on the hill..If anyone knew of my mum Mary Ann McEwan I would love to hear from them..
Moira Gray (Milton Keynes)
30 March 2008

I spent Easter weekend on the beautiful Island of Eigg, stunning scenery, friendly folk and a lovely farmhouse to stay in. A warm welcome was mine when i arrived on Eigg with my fiance. We were lucky enough to stay with Marie and Colin in Kildonnan House, which I can recomend as top class accomodation, with home cooking and great crack. I hope my next visit isnt too far off.
June McKinstry (Glenluce, South West Scotland)
26 March 2008

first visit to mallaig was in 1942. spent the next six years in mallaig. was a crew member on the fishing vessel [craighaugh] carrying herring from the outer isles. mother was schooled in mallaig from 1905 on. her name was ann forbes watt.
Albert Watt Downie (Fraserburgh)
14 March 2008

I just tripped across your site, and have found it most interesting. I have been researching my family history for over twenty years and it has taken me to several parts of the world. I find this family to be the most interesting because i'm descended from the McDonald's of loupe.
Catherine Flora daughter of; John McDonald son of; Angus McDonald Born; 1780 Knoydart, Scotland Died; March 23, 1862 Lochiel, Glengarry, Ontario, Canada married in Scotland abt. 1812 Too; Jane MacDougal(d) dau. of; Duncan Macdougal(d) Born: Abt. 1765 (Son of; Donald (Dhouil bheg) & of; Ann McDougal(d) Born: Abt. 1771
Angus McDonald & Jane McDougal(d)left on the Baltic Merchant in 1815 with two children. Jane's parents left the same year on the Elizabeth with their other children.
After searching for marriage certificates,census returns,obits,baptism records and many contacts on the roots web board throughout the years. Bless them all for their gift of knowledge and this diesease called family history. :) From all this i have the following info:
Angus McDonald Born; Abt 1790 son of; John Ban MacDonald (Of Toirracharian) son of; John MacDonald B-Abt;1688 son of; John MacDonald son of; Duncan Ban son of; Duncan MacDonald son of; John Mor MacDonald ......
*Angus McDonald B- 1790-1862 His father did not come to Canada, that i'm aware of so i'm hoping that there are families that descend from this line, and i would love to share information with them. Angus had the following siblings that i'm aware of, and maybe some that stayed in Scotland with their parents.
Alexander, Duncan, Sally & John U.E.L -who married Jane Sutherland they had 8 children ended up in Canada as well.
Sincerely,
Debra Woodyatt (Ontario, Canada)
9 March 2008

Thank you! After a lengthy search, yours was the first website I found that gave me informaton about the "Fisherman and Little Girl" statue that greeted us at the Mallaig harbour last May! I am including some photos of it in a family video and wanted to document its significance. Now I know! Thanks again!
Gail Holmes (Denair, California, USA)
2 March 2008

A fascinating insight into life on the islands. I was drawn into the website after reading an article today in the Wales Western Mail about the Welsh couple from Carmarthenshire who have chosen to live in Canna and although I've heard of the other Small Isles, I did not know of Canna. After reading several websites, I feel I must get the ferry from Mallaig and visit the place along with my wife this summer. Eigg also looks fabulous. Good Luck
Howard Griffiths, Llanelli South Wales
30 January 2008

My brother Duncan in Auchtermuchty e-mailed the West Word to me which I have just finished reading. How I enjoyed my Uncle Gordon's reminiscences. (Aunt Bunts was my godmother). My father was Angus Findlay MacLennan.
Fiona M Oswald (nee MacLennan), Elgin, Moray
15 January 2008

hi i have intensions of visiting a few islands next year from which one is definitly the isle of rum . i have just taken up hill walking again since i was a boy when i visited quite a few islands including the orkney's , islay , gigha , colonsay to name a few i would appreciate if you could send any information on the isle of rum and the surrounding islands . i would be very grateful many thanks
John Docherty, Glasgow
14 December 2007

Hi, me and my children would like to wish you all a happy christmas and all the best for 2008. Our ultimate dream would be to move to canna and to be part of your comunity.But alas to financial burdens etc it may never be but we can dream and dream. If you are ever need a great cook and some kiddies(5 of) to expand your poulation then were here.lol
keep safe and godbless
Andrea and family, North Wales
13 December 2007

I was just browsing the Internet looking up information on my family who apparently immigrated from "The Isle of Rum" to Cape Breton Island around 1812....The common names in that particular family were....Roderick, Donald, Neil , Murdock....Anyway, we prospered & have done extremely well. I was reading an article in The Montreal Gazette a couple of years ago about the MacLeans on Rum.....& how they were trying to get some of the children to return....I found it very interesting...& in retrospect can see the "resemblence between the two lands".. Cape Breton and Mull..I even grew up in a small village called Kinloch...& now I realize where that name came from...Thanks to the Internet...
Cairine MacLean, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
4 December 2007

Hi evrybody,
together with my wifes we planning to visit to islands next summer (-08), 20 years ago I visited Isle of Mull and it was great. We are interested in history, nature´(the sea) and romantic places (fx castles) and we also like a good whisky..:-) Is there anyone who could give us any good ideas what to visit and do?
Best regards
Pelle Dahlin, Sweden
25 November 2007

Great to read your paper online to keep us up to date with everything going on in the area, we visit twice a year and stay for a week at Back of Keppoch (Kinnedar chalets), tell Jenny the sheepdog I'm missing her and I'll see her soon, thank you.
Erin Reilly (aged 8) from Kirkcaldy
18 November 2007

Very interesting to read about your community! Looking forward to visiting nan Eileain next Summer! Would like to correspond with some Gaelic speakers by email!
Diarmuid Hayes, Baile Atha Cliath, Eireann
16 November 2007

Love West Word almost as much as I love Morar and district. Spent many very happy holidays from 1944 onwards and hope to spend many more. Most were at Tougal and some at Portnadoran.Have had a couple of old photographs(I took them many moons ago) published in the last 2 editions and I'm sure I have many more. By the way I am from Falkirk not Kilwinning. I have many many friends in MORAR and it feels like coming home, maybe someday it will be!!!
Fiona Scott nee McLeod, Falkirk
13 November 2007

Just finished reading West Word for the first time but not the last, very interesting.
John MacLean, Sydney, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada
5 November 2007

I worked in and around Oban as a botanical surveyor in 1999. I vowed to return soon but it never happened. How? Why? Now I have this wonderful site I'd like to keep in touch.
Claire Dines, Brighton
3 November 2007

BORN ALEXANDRIA ONTARIO CANADA PEOPLE CAME OVER 200YRS AGO FROM KNOYDART
EDWARD A MACDONALD, GERMAN TOWN TN
31 October 2007

Very sad to read about the fire in the gardens, it was a special place in Arisag. Lived in Arisaig for 5 years and it will always have a special place in my heart.
Allison Mackintosh, Grantown-on-Spey
27 October 2007

I just wanted to say a wee thank you to Ingrid and Eileen in Glenfinnan for managing to keep village news updated despite both being so busy with babies. It's lovely to be able to find out what's going on at home when I'm very far away!
Ailsa Powell, Kunming, China
25 October 2007

My mother, Susan McCourt (an orphan) was raised in Arisaig from the time she was three in the 1920's, until she was old enough to leave and travel to England to go into Service. She didn't talk about it a lot, I believe times were rather hard in those days but I remember the name Annie Fenton who I believe brought her up, and a man called John who was good to her. I wish I had pressed her more, she died in 1984. If anyone has any memories that go that far back please let me know.
Francis Joseph Reynolds, Shenington, Oxfordshire
23 October 2007

Great to read all the news - particulalry intrigued by the potential puma sightings but also the sun fish. That really is amazing I was in the Caribbean recently and saw them there! Anyway, I have photos of NW Scotland that eclipse any photos I have of the Caribbean! I have been visiting the area yearly for 20 years and really like to feel I'm keeping in touch with things as I definately don't visit as much as I would like. Can anyone givew me a job up there? I will do anything to be up there!
Simon Lane, London
16 October 2007

I photographed the otter on Mallaig harbour on Friday 5th October and was delighted to do so. Took several photos up very close as he munched his fish lunch. Back home searched on the internet to find out more and found your website...what a treat!!
Ruth Lancaster, Staffordshire
7 October 2007

Lived in Arisaig for 5 years its nice to keep up wiv the local news.
Laurie Mackintosh, Grantown-On-Spey
7 October 2007

Had another wonderful week in Mallaig in September. For the first time we had booked a place with open views to Eigg & Rhum - and they were often shrouded in cloud and mist. Oh well! It was another opportunity to get to know the area well. We had two gloriously sunny days and managed a sail out to Canna on the 'Lochnevis' - Brilliant. I'm so struck, and taken with the place I've started a group on facebook ! Lonely at the mo. - only me there. Just search for 'we love Mallaig', Many thanks to the street cleaner who gave us a cheery 6am. wave as we drove out of town. We don't get that here.
Alan Richards, Manchester - ish
29 September 2007

I continue to enjoy Westword;especially the news from Eigg. My Great-great-great grandfather came to Shelburne, Nova Scotia in the late 1700's with the Loyalists.On his discharge papers his place of residence was listed as Eigg.I had the privledge of visiting Eigg in 2004. What a beautiful Island--such friendly people. Hope to return someday before Father- Time catches me !!
Kaye Barbour, Nova Scotia
23 September 2007

As we will visit Canna in December, I like to read what's going on there these months. Your stories give a nice insight.
Carla Tavenier-Kok, Netherlands
12 September 2007

I would like to address a matter that has long been a concern of mine which was mentioned in the Knoydart article of the August issue. The debate that has always been undecided, whether the goats that are resident on the peninsula are having a negetive impact on its bio-diversity.
Well, yes, they are eating a lot of pansies and other latin named sedges, berries, even trees! So it would seem the answer is- cull them, aye!
I would say, steady on, not being without a bit of experience in the matter having been previously employed as the first Knoydart Ranger, There are other factors to be taken into consideration.
First of all, The community owned peninsula was secured by a number of bodies including the John Muir Trust and the Highland council along with other trustee's and most importantly through personal donations from the general public.
The 'Appeal' to raise funds to secure the estate, was mostly successfull due to its main attractive feature, Its wild terrain commonly known as the Rough bounds of Knoydart. Our Main strategy which was defenately a winning factor to attract donors, was its new description, 'the Last Wilderness' on all our T-shirts, press re-leases. (you wont see a mention of that now.) The JMT are now one of most active organisations in promoting and preserving wild land, infact at the first 'Wild Land' conferance ran by JMT in Pitlochry. I was privilaged enough to attend. A very interesting conclusion was made by the JMT Chairman.
'How do we determin what is Wild Land'? In his opinion, which I totaly agree, 'If Golden Eagles thrive there, then that is Wild Land'.
During my time as the ranger on Knoydart I monitored the Golden Eagle activity as much as possible and established in 2004 that the number of nesting pairs were more than could be considered normal for these territorial Birds of Prey. Not to mention the occasional visit from the wandering juvenial Sea Eagle also being tolerated.
The Goat cull? Well due to the scarce food supply during the winter months, for our last great preditor, you would think the eagles would move further east toward the more lush habitats of the Cairngorm national park, But they dont. The reason possibly is the fact that the goat herd on Knoydart predominately have thier Kids January/February time, ideal sized takeaway meals to sustain the eagles through the incubation period on the nest. Personnaly, I would prefer to see the Eagles. The exposed western coast line is a harsh environment in the best circumstances anyway, under constant pressure from the elements. Go easy on the goats and give the Eagle his day on the Rough Bounds.
The peninsula I work on at the moment has some serious bio-diversity issues, but the goat herds are thriving away,(next to the camels)
Iain Fleming, Arabian Peninsula
4 September 2007

I came to the isles of Eigg and Rum for the first time this summer, and fell in head over heels in love with the people I met and the scenery (seen both in sunshine and rain). I was also privileged enough to see my very first whales while onboard the MV Shearwater (I was tremendously thrilled); and saw so many seals--very exciting for me because the only ones I've ever seen have been in zoos. I am so ready to come back and stay for a much longer time!!! The photos I took are memorized both in my mind and heart...I was delighted to find The Road to the Isles through a Google search and know I will use it to keep tied to the isles. Thank you!
Regina M. Belt, Crystal Lake, Illinois USA
29 August 2007

My sister and I will have 19 glorious days in Scotland, beginning Sept 5 in Edinburgh. She does not use a computer and leaves all the planning to me. After reading about all Scotland has to offer for MONTHS, I am so strongly attacted to your area, I think that after several days in Edinburgh, we will head for the Highlands after claiming our rental car!
Sharon Stupp, Dallas, Texas USA
22 August 2007

Visited during August to train folks in spraying. Had a great time, my thanks to especially Gerry and all who made me welcome, Wendy for her lovely grub and Team BMJ for hospitality in their house.
Iain Craig, Kintyre
20 August 2007

I continue to enjoy reading the West Word online and after posting comments a year or so ago, I received a very nice e-mail from Steve (no last name) in London who told me that he and his wife were applying to live in Canna. They were planning to open and run a B&B there. I have not heard anymore about the outcome so perhpas Steve will read my comments and reply with an update. Steve told me that he had visited Vancouver Island 10 years ago and loved this area. I suspect that "Island people" have similar experiences and characteristics around the world. We love West Word and hope one day to visit the Small Isles. My family history originates with the MacDonalds and Urquharts from villages/towns in Aberdeenshire (specifically Tarland and Peterhead). Scotland is a unique place on earth and I always love visiting. All the best to the West Word and its readers.
Cairine Green, British Columbia
19 August 2007

My name is Donna Collins, and 25 years ago, when I was 9 years old, in 1982. My family and I decended upon Morar for the most fonderful and memorable holiday I will ever remember. Infact, due to my mother falling seriously ill 4 years later, it was the last holiday I ever had. There were four of us,.. My Great Grand Mother,.. My Grand Mother,.. Mother and myself,.. Wee lassie with long blonde hair,,., We stayed in the little white but-n-ben cottage across the bay from the village. The one with the tin roof, Outside Loo, sheep all around and slugs up the wall.
The villagers took pitty on us due to our circumstances, namely the house was in a dreadful state for any house, let alone a holiday cottage, dirty bed linen from the previous holiday mekers and unwashed pots and pans in the sink didn't make for a good start. Let alone the sodden Mattresses and huge slugs crawling up the damp and mouldy walls.
Getting there was fun too, £40 Taxi fare from Fort William (1982 remember,.. would be equivilant to £120 today !!! ) Because the Trains were on Strike !, We had saved up for 4 years for the holiday, and had to keep another £40 incase they trains went on strike again, they did ! So we had a very meagre holiday, and had to make our own fun.
Mr. & Mrs Johnstone, only 50 yards away, were wonderful people, and helped up emensley. The whole village made us feel as though we had always been there. Mr. & Mrs Johnstone had two Grand Sons who tried to show me how to hunt for slow worms, without success, and were excellent artists, and painted two pictures of a hawk and an eagle for us to take away. We still have them, and I often wonder what they are doing today. No doubt, have a family of their own.
I remember also with great fondness the old gravedigger, (looked a bit like Seth Armstrong to me then ) He had suffered a very sad tradgedy only a few weeks before, his Grand Daughter had drowned at Morar falls when she had been out with her auntie. The auntie was deaf and didn�t hear the little one fall in or cry out, and by the time she realised what had happened, it was too late. Every time he saw me, tears welled up in his eyes, as he said I looked exactly like her. And warned my mother not to let me anywhere near the waters of the falls.
Shepherd Ronnie was another great friend, he invited us to the village cheildh on our last night of our holiday. We had a great time. I would love to know if he is still alive, for from that day I always wanted to play the Bagpipes, and I did. I became a member of my Local Pipe Band, and played in it for 15 years. I still play the pipes, but on my own now at various functions.
The Lady at the Post office was also most kind, giving us all sorts of advice about the area and events we could go to. The station master who one day let me open one of the road gates,.. Well he helped me,. But it was great !
And of course the old shop, which I understand is no longer there. I wonder if anyone remembers, two days after the Hyde Park Bombing in London, a RAF Jet flew right over the top of the shop, almost hitting it, and went straight up to try and avoid it. Everyone in the shop fell to the floor, one woman screaming. Me the wee dafty, just stood there, wondering why everyone was curled up in a ball,.. I was just intent on getting my chocolate !
I would dearly like to know if anyone I have mentioned is still alive? Mr & Mrs Johnstone, Shepherd Ronnie, The Grave Digger, The post Office Lady, The Station Master, The Pottery Lady with the Big Fuzzy Hair ! It would be lovely to find out.
My Great Grandmother died sadly over 15 years ago now,. But my Gran and Mum are still here, and are hoping to come back up to Morar within the next few weeks !! Only over night as Gran doesn't like travelling these days.
I also wonder if anyone remembers me or the Family who stayed in the But-N-Ben in the Hot Summer of 1982 ?
And what happened to us and what am I doing now?. Well 4 years after our holiday, mum fell seriously ill, they thought it was M.S, but could not diagnose her right for 10 years. Eventually they confirmed it was M.E.,,, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but by that time she had lost her job, and I was looking after the family,.. After leaving school tried a few jobs, but ended up becoming self employed, as a Comedy Entertainer, knows as Gladys Chucklebutty. I travel all over the country doing my comedy shows. Maybe one day I can do one for the lovely people in Morar. I also own a 80 Acre farm, which is both arable and some sheep and Cattle. I remember a lot of what Ronnie Told me.
So if any one out there remembers us, or knows if any one is still alive that I mentioned.,, PLEASE get in touch. I'd love to know !!! Thank you. Kindest Regards,
Donna Collins (Now aged 34), from Dunbar
15 August 2007

I am exchange teacher from Nova Scotia, Canada and currently teaching in Edinburgh. I just finished reading an article from your March 2001 issue entitled "A Little Geneology" by Allan MacDonald. He spoke of meeting Rick Grace from Nova Scotia who is related to me and the family of "Simon's People". I hope to be in the Mallaig area within the next month and was wondering if anyone from my family tree would be interested in meeting and exchanging information. Thanks!
Mary MacDonald, Halifax, Nova Scotia/Edinburgh
14 August 2007

I am very much enjoying your site and the marvels of the internet in looking up the place of my ancestry. I wonder if any MacLellans/McLellans still reside in Morar. My maternal grandfather (born 1894 in Canada) had ancestors from Morar. He married a Mary Catherine Chisolm and died here in 1982.
There were two brothers, Angus and Archibald MacLellan, sons of Neil who came from Morar in 1804 to Antigonish County, Nova Scotia (N.S.), Canada. Angus was in South River, N.S. and then moved to Inverness County, Cape Breton. I noticed on a picture of my great grandfather Angus's grave in N.S. that his name was spelled McLellan, although my family styles their name "MacLellan". Thanks,
Maureen Strickley, Canada
12 August 2007

I am researching McEachan/McEachern that left Arisiag, Scotland in 1791. Your newspaper keeps popping up and I am really enjoy reading it. I hope to visit your area next year.
Donald (son of Ronald) and Christian McEachan (various spellings, depending on who is recording the documents) left Arisaig, Scotland and settled in Cape George, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada. I was the 7th generation to grow up at Cape George. Though I am making progress tracing my line in Nova Scotia, I am having difficulty making a connection in Scotland. Do you have any suggestions on where to look?
Any suggetions on where to stay in Arisaig or what to see? My Dad is a fisherman. I am trying to convince my Mom and Dad to visit Scotland with my sister and I. Is there a fishermen from the area willing to take him out fishing for a day? I am hoping that would convince him to take the long plane ride across the ocean. We are planning to visit in August, 2008. He fishes lobster, tuna, scallops, groundfish, etc.. He is an in-shore fisherman with his own boat and gear.
I know you must receive plenty of requests. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Keep up the great work on the paper.
Donna MacEachern, Quebec, Canada
10 August 2007

I have been trying to trace info on my husbands family who were originally from Arisaig. GGF Duncan and GGM Annie. They had 2 sons and 3 daughters, one son Peter married Ivy Davies in Leigh on Sea, they had a son Clarence born 1929 in Polygon Southampton and died in tragic accident in 1967. This was my husband Eddie's father and his mother was Rose Tweedell who died in 1996. If anyone has any info at all on the above family I would be so grateful for any help...I seem to be unable to find anything at all, yet my own family tree I can get back to 1770!! So frustrating. Many thanks even for reading this
Christine MacDonald, Horsham, West Sussex
1 August 2007

I am here for a week in Arisaig, at the hotel, engaged in research about the Catholics in the Highlands in the late 17th and 18th centuries--the penal times. My research actually started with the effects of the Penal Laws in Ireland, which were put into place after the Treaty of Limerick was broken. We've just come from Speyside, where we visited Scalan. The internet lead me to your wondeful community paper, a wonderful blend of past and present times and a vision of a possible future. Congratulations! I know how difficult it is to keep a website like yours going strong. I look forward to the next issue.
Sheila Crowell, Montclair, New Jersey
31 July 2007

Read West Word online every month. I enjoy learning about what has happened in the various areas. My family and me will be staying in Arisaig this month and are looking forward to the highland games. Lets hope the sun will be shining.
Lynn Reid, Glasgow
13 July 2007

I have just finished reading lucy irvine's book 'faraway' and seemed to sense some distant connection with that name. this prompted me to look up sam and matt humphrey who i remember lived at knoydart. i see from the website that you now have a son, felix - congratulations sam and matt. russ and i are still in beechworth, australia, with our 3 girls - a far cry from ICU at brighton.
Vanessa Crosby, Beechworth, Australia
13 July 2007

Researching the family of Malcolm Nicholson and Christina Wood. Malcolm, born 1834, son of Murdoch Nicholson and Euphemia MacCrimmon, was a shepherd or gamekeeper on Rhum: in the 1871 census at Kinloch and in 1881 at Kilmory. Christina Wood born about 1846 was the daughter of James Wood and Jessie Munro. Interested in any further information on these families (have already seen the MacCrimmon family history site) and in contacting other descendants. Thank you very much!
Carolyn, Canada
1 July 2007

I am trying to do a little research on Canna. My father's family came from there. They moved to Greenock around about the Great Depression. My grandfathers name was John James Steele (as was my fathers) and he had brothers named Sanny, Lachie and Neally (Alexander, Lachlan and Neil I presume). My last living relative on Canna was named Morag who died in the 1990's. I think that she lived there all her life there and died in her 90's. Perhaps someone will remember her. My husband and I hope to include Canna in an upcoming holiday. My grandfather used to take my father with him to the island during the school holidays until the start of WW2. Kind regards
Fiona Clark, Wollongong, Australia
27 June 2007

I'm interested in your reference to a Neil MacQuarrie. My great-grandfather was a Neil MacQuarrie. His father was Charles MacQuarrie, but we don't know where he came from. We think he married a Sarah MacLean whose family was from Rum. The men of the MacLean family fought in the war of 1812 in Canada. She and Charles emigrated to Nova Scotia around the mid 1820s. I wonder if there is a connection.
Margaret MacQuarrie, Victoria, B.C. Canada
26 June 2007

I just learned about this publication on a visit to Morar hunting for ancestors. I wish I had met Allan and Elizabeth MacDonald, your genealogy experts, but I have sent an e-mail to them. I did meet Ronnie MacLellan and his wife Mary. Great publication!!
Gary MacLellan, Canada
22 June 2007

I visit Arisaig and the Small Isles every year, I so look forward to a trip on the Sheerwater, experiencing all the wild life, views and good walking particularly An Sgurr which has the best views in the world from the top on bright clear day. There was a saga to entertain us this year in the Arisaig Hotel it was 'The mystery of the illusive chef' who never arrived, I wonder if he ever did?
Simon Hook, West Malling, Kent
15 June 2007

Long live Glenfinnan! Home of the great and glorious fictional characters Connor and Duncan Macleod. A place I wish very much one day to be able to visit.
Sharon Marie Shepherd, St. Louis, Missouri
7 June 2007

Hi folks,
I AM WRITING A FICTIONAL BOOK BASED IN YOUR AREA AND WOULD LIKE SOME HELP
Some of you may remember me. In June 2003 I visited your West Word editorial team with 5 other members of a soon to be published local paper, 'The North Glasgow People'. We met in the Morar Hotel. I have been writing for many years and especially enjoy producing community newspapers.
We stayed some days based in Arisaig B&B's. I stayed and with Alex and Mary-Ann Gillies' B&B in Roshen View - and have recommended them to friends since. I also learnt much from Ann Martin in Arisaig, who I see has contributed to the latest issue of West Word.
Your lovely communities had a big impact on me. We all had a great dance night in the Arisaig Hall, visit to Eigg, etc. Anyway, shortly after that visit I had to take over full time care of my 4 young children as my ex couldn't cope - and so I am living down here in London.
I am writing a fictional novel for teenagers, and the main setting is Morar, the beach and Loch, Arisaig and Mallaig. I really need to make everything as factually correct as is possible. As such I intend to visit for a holiday with my children and some friends in late August. For me it would be a fact-finding mission though.
I really want to advertise the area for tourism, which is an easy job. I would also like to talk to any experts on animal life in the area and those with knowledge of Loch Morar and the hills on it's far side, or any experienced local ramblers. I have also been catching up on recent West Word material online, which is invaluable - thanks all - looking forward to meeting up with some of you in August.
Please phone 0208 426 4347 (I will phone back) or contact WestWord editor Ann Martin and she will give you my private e-mail address.
Steve Masterson, Harrow, London
6 June 2007

Excellent reading. Grew up in Mallaig & nice to see the local news.
John Bruce, Romford
2 June 2007

I love this site. I traced my family roots some years ago to the area of Mallaig and since then everything I can find from this area fascinates me and fills me with wonder and awe
Deborah Roberts, Pinnacle, NC USA
1 June 2007

I haven't seen the actual Newsletter, but congratulations on a great website. I've spent many happy holidays on the West Coast and on the Islands - Skye and North Uist are particular favourites!
Tony Dyson, Kinross
30 May 2007

I was once a boy who was taken to scotlands west coast highland on the banks of the loch shiel. achnanellan next to acharacle as i remember can it be possible to email me any info pictures on the place now.
Ramon Carlos Wilson, Hull
27 May 2007

Excellent presentation, full of interesting articles,news and contacts.I look forward to reading future issues.
Alan Brockie, Renfrew
25 May 2007

We're staying in Morar in early June at Jim and Audrey MacEachen's Sandholm Cottages. We really enjoying reading the West Word and getting ourselves into the local news and history. Keep up the good work!
David Macdonald, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
23 May 2007

Folk singer/songwriter Angie Wright has teamed up with superb guitarist Nick Allmark and they are looking for small intimate venues at which to perform. Some of you may remember Angie she has sung at late-night session in the tearoom on Eigg, and at the Tearoom on Muck and has gigged on Rum. Angie has also guested at many folk clubs and major festivals throughout the UK as a solo performer or as half of Taggart and Wright. Nick Allmark has made several short tours in New England as well as appearing at many venues throughout the UK. Nick is the organiser of the successfull Singer Songwriter Festival held each year at the Taybank Hotel in Dunkeld. Both Angie and Nick have CDs available. They are available for August 3rd - 9th 2007 otherwise please consider dates in 2008. They are happy to appear for a share of the takings rather than a fixed fee. If you are interested in booking them please contact me to dicuss details.
Yours in Folk, Rob Wright - Click here for contact details

Looking forward to visiting Eigg in July
Mario Kiakowski, Stirling
20 May 2007

My ancient relatives came from Arisaig (Jon Ban Gillis & Angus Gillis MacDonald) around 1775 ? I would love to read the local newspaper and see what my relatives are doing...
Colin Gillis, North Easton, MA, USA
14 May 2007

I look forward each month to your publication appearing on the web.I follow with particular interest the news from Eigg as my Mac Donald ancestors came from Sandavore. I had the priviledge on visiting the village on two occassions during the past two decades. Hoping to do another trip.
Donald Barbour, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia Canada
11 May 2007

Cool site I'm originally from fort william I am now a published poet please feel free to visit my website at www.freewebs.com/hippychic2001/ my poetry is modern and describes social and emotional issues.
Heather MacLeod Nee Hardie, Inverness
April 2007

saw the otter approx 6pm easter weekend, it came from the beach, ran across the road and went up behind the two tenements around the kyber, it raced up through the undergrowth for about 40 feet and then disappeared out of site
kenny macpherson
15 April 2007

Researching the history of the two Tillicoultry lads who were awarded VC at Loos. Your 2003 article very interesting on Charles Lyons. The original letter home from Pollock VC states very clearly that "another fellow volunteered to accompany me" while the official citation claims that he was alone. Confusion or, better propaganda? I don't know. Pollock clearly states that originally, he was not alone. Very interesting article
Gerry Docherty, Tillicoultry
5 March 2007