View Full Version : Caithness Monumental Inscriptions pre 1855
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when their ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
sassylass
05-May-02, 18:10
Do these volumes show who is buried in which plot in the cemeteries?
Sassy, There is a plot map for each listing - I had already checked out the one for Trostan Cemetary and is seeems to be accurate.
Hi Davie, we are wondering if there is a plot map for Ballachly. Sassy and I were there last July, and it was so overgrown, we couldnt find the family graves we were looking for.
Also wondering if there is a tiny cemetery listed, just across the River Thurso from Dale House. It doesnt seem to be on any map, but local folk remember it. Thanks for any help. Regards, Helen
sassylass
13-May-02, 06:33
I would be interested to see the layout of Ballacly. We have relatives buried there, and could not find the graves in the overgrowth. Also, we were looking for a little cemetery near Dale House, and wonder if you know where it is?
sassylass
13-May-02, 06:35
OMG we are on the same page once again sis o'mine!
Sassers, are you following me LOL
Well, at least we are on the same path here.
Here's to Ballachly in 2004, with more info and a machete.
And a shovel to find gravestones under the moss at the wee cemetery at Dale. -Helen
Helen & Sassy - There is no map given for Ballachly - "Inscriptions noted were right & left of the entrance in a rough line to back wall : not possible to examine undergrowth to extreme right & left walls". The names index shows Bain,Campbell,Doull,Dunbar,Forbes,Gray,MacGregor,M acKay,Morrison,Ramage,Renwick,Sutherland,Taylor.Th ey only listed 13 stones and note that more may be buried in the undergrowth (this was in 1980 so you will need to bring the Marines to do the digging 24 years later). If any of the indexed names is who you are looking for let me know - I can give you the inscription.
There are two cemetaries under Westerdale as follows ( not that they help much) :-
St Trostan's : Field beside the Thurso River & opposite Dale House - unenclosed overgrown mound close to field gate - no inscribed stones found.
Dale House Estate : in far corner of field on right of drive is a small square walled enclosure - no inscribed stones found.
If the correct name isnt under Ballachly let me know who it is you are looking for and approx dates and I can look through all the bits & pieces of info that I have collected.
sassylass
13-May-02, 16:04
Forbes and MacKay are our relatives in Ballacly, and would you be so kind as to look up the Bain names, too, as a friend of ours may also have kin there. Thank you Davie.
Sixth Stone on the left as you go in :-
John Bain,Clashchiby,Forse Died 17 June1853 aged 72 years,his wife Cath Gray, died 6 January 1865 aged 74 years,son James died 1 March 1879, aged 54, daugter Jane died 10 March 1845 aged 15 years. The stone erected by son Alex,Melbourne.
Fourth Stone on the left as you go in :
Don MacKay,Clashcreggan died 13 April 1848 aged 81, his wife Isabella Forbes, died January 1827 aged 50 years.Children Cath,George,Patrick ,died 'youth' and Lizzie died 7 May 1884.
There is a note in the list referring the above Donald MacKay to the book" Ministers & Men in the Far North " which starts on Page 117 and runs to page 122 - it starts off "Donald MacKay, Claschreggan, was one of whom it might truly be said that his "conversation was in heaven". The last lines in this book refer to his gravestone quoting the epitaph " he was an example of the believers in word,in conversation,in charity,in spirit,in faith, and in purity".
Quickly scanning through the pages I notice he was a native of Sutherlandshire.
If this is the correct MacKay/Forbes I can get the pages from " Ministers & Men" scanned by my m8 and sent to you.
Davie, thanks so much! Yes, we are direct descendants of Donald Mackay and Isabella Forbes. Their gravestone must be covered with moss, as I surely was standing next to the fourth on the left, after we pried the rusted gate open. Now that I know precisely where to look, we have a better chance of seeing it.
We do have a copy of the pages from "Ministers and Men of the Far North", which was amazing to read. Sounds like old Donald had quite a conversation going with God to protect him from the Devil.
Thanks again. Now let's see if Sassy types the same thing at the same time from another city. It's bad enough we show up at parties wearing the same clothes LOL
Glad to be of some help Helen. Any thing else I can do on the subject let me - it's a lot of fun. I'm back to Latheron 1765 with my own lot & I think that's as far as I will get. Doing research at the moment on a son of the 1765 Sutherlands who served in the Peninsular Wars with Wellington's army - an interesting 'sidetrack'.
I bet its St. Trostan's we are looking for. Our family had a croft on that side of the river, across from Dale House, and both gggrandparents died there. We heard from a local man who is almost 80 yrs old, that his job as a child was to clean the moss from the flat stones of the cemetery, and that there was no fence around it. Now if we can just pinpoint the mound...and bring in the Marines LOL Thanks Davie. -Helen
Helen - If it might help I can look thru all the indices in these books - it wont take long. Some of my own lot were at Newlands,Westerdale, but are buried elsewhere. Let me know the names if you think it's worth a try.
Donald Stewart died at Dale around 1845, and his wife Janet Mackay Stewart died in January of 1861, also at Dale. They had at least 13 children, most of who disappear from the census within 10 yrs, so we think they may have died young. These include Janet, Peter, Donald, Sinclair, Catherine Ross, Dorothy, Rose, Donaldina & more.
He was an army pensioner, having served in the 72nd Regiment of Foot during the Napoleonic Wars.
Thanks for checking the indices, one never knows how the puzzle pieces will fit together. -Helen
Helen - Leave it with me for a wee while. My ancestor Robert Sutherland who lived at Newlands, Westerdale was also a pensioner of the same period (42nd Foot - The Black Watch or Highland Regiment). Pensions were paid out in Thurso so its more than likely that they visited town on the same day to get the cash. It sure is a small world !.
You maybe already know but the 72nd became the 1st Battalion Seaforth Highlanders at a later date.
Helen - no trace of your Donald on a quick scan of the indices. Do you know if he was born at Dale or moved there ?. Its beddie time here but I will go thru it again tomorrow and see if I have better luck
sassylass
14-May-02, 04:18
This is very exciting...thank you, thank you davie
Small world indeed! I can picture them on their way to Thurso to get their pay, with their tartan vests on.
Donald Stewart was baptized at Lybster in 1769, (his father was also Donald Stewart of Lybster, and also an army pensioner) He had at least 5 sisters, all baptized in Lybster Parish, I dont know exactly where they lived.
After his marriage to Janet Mackay in 1825, they lived in various places near Wick, Pulteneytown, Louisbourgh, Newtown, then finally ended up on a farm of 2 acres at Dale in 1841. So there may be a Stewart lair near Lybster.
Take yer time dearie, they've been deed all these years, a few more wont hurt them LOL Thanks again, and Dad says thanks too. -Helen
Helen - No trace of your Donald Stewart (or Janet MacKay) in the indices. I did notice a line in "The Book of Lybster" which says "Donald Stewart was a pensioner in Lybster in 1767" - I assume thats his father who you already know about.
I have printed details of Donald Jnr & his wife off the site and will keep looking - I hate to be beat !. I am going out Dale way on my next trip home to check out the place my own ancestors were at - I will try to have a look around this St Trostans place as well.
Nil Desperandum.
Thanks Davie...yes, we have the Book of Lybster, with that page marked about Donald Stewart. That info came from the baptismal record of one of Donald(2)'s sisters.
That would be grand if you had a look for St. Trostan's. I could give you some leads on who might walk you to the spot. I can't imagine that they were buried on the Dale Estate, my gg gran was a just domestic servant there, when she wasnt digging tatties. -Helen
Helen - the world gets smaller !!. My grand-uncle was caretaker at Dale House for many years until he retired to Halkirk. This was when the Murray-Threipland family had the estate and I remember being there as a child. Even earlier (or so I am told) I was farmed out there for a few weeks and crawled around at such a speed that I was named the "blue-ar**d fly. My mammy had made me blue troosers to go over the nappies :lol: :lol: I know roughly where the cemetary is but don't hold your breath - it could be a while before I get up there.
Anonymous
06-Jun-02, 22:47
in the late 80's the community programmes of Caithness District Council undertook the listings of graveyards in the county. Someone somewhere must have these lists. They were originally in the Bruce Buildings in Sinclair Terrace, Wick.
I would be interested in any Oman or Manson heatstones in Trostan Cemetary ( the one near Shebster)
The listings for Trostan show the following Omans/Mansons :
Robert MacKenzie Manson died Greenvale Dunnet 4 December 1927 aged 69, his wife Jane Oman died Sibster Halkirk 31 March 1945 aged 85. Son Nicolas accidentally killed Pass.??, Saskatchewan 7 October 1921 aged 39.
There are 13 entries for Manson as well , I am a big bit no weel at the moment and dont have the energy to type them all in today. If the Manson/Oman above is NOT the one you are looking for can you be any more specific and I'll have another look.
Anonymous
11-Jun-02, 23:38
davie
thnak you that is the manson/oman i was looking for. another should be david manson who died in the latter part of the last century. I know there is a lot of them but it is good to have that information
thanks
No David Manson listed at Trostan. I do know that there are some stones in Trostan not in the book so it is possible he is there. The cemetary is worth a look - it's kept quite tidy and you go in thru MacKenzies farm steading to get there. (If you go remember your wellies!).
I had a look thru the Halkirk pages - there are two entries there but the dates are not right for the one you are looking for :-
David Manson,Farmer, died Achavrole,Calder, 15 December 1903 Aged 63yrs. His wife Ann Sinclair, died 14 Jan 1930, aged 74. Their daughter Elizabeth C Smith, died Canada 15 March 1922, aged 32.
David Manson,Farmer, Calder. 1 Dec 1799 to 4 Aug 1865. His wife Margaret Munro. 17 Jan 1806 to 8 Jan 1869. Erected by their son David.
Anonymous
13-Jun-02, 23:28
indeed the world is very small - your grand uncle must have been christopher - my very dear neighbour - how we miss him - he was a great old man - many laughs we had together ( and sad moments too)
Christy was indeed my grand-uncle Janette. I had not seen him for a few years but remember the last time. It was in the Royal Hotel after a funeral and he was showing off by hopping & skipping about the place. I'm sure if there had been room he would have being doing cartwheels as well !. He must have been nearly 90 then.
Ref. your David Manson - when you say latter part of the last century which one are you actually talking about. With a bit more specifics I can have a look thru all my reference books and maybe find him for you.
For example I have a David Manson who died at Brough 14 June 1899 aged 82 and his wife Jane Trotter who died at Ham 31 December 1876 aged 75. They are in Dunnet Cemetary which might tie in with your Robert Manson being at Greenside ??.
Anonymous
18-Jun-02, 01:30
the manson oman reference are my grandfather annd granny i think i can tell you more
Anonymous
01-Jul-02, 14:08
hi there all the way from New Zealand
im looking for information on the following couple:
John SUTHERLAND and Janet MACINTOSH emigrated from Caithness in 1859 to Canterbury, New Zealand.
all i know is that they had 9 children, the 6th one being my ggg-grandfather Adam. and their eldest named John (born 15 Nov 1856, Dunbeath, Latheron, Caithness, Scotland)
id love to hear form anyone that might be able to tell me anything about John and Janet or their descendants.
cheers
Richard Anderson
Alastair Banks
01-Jul-02, 22:56
Davie
Would you be able to lookup whether there's a monumental inscription for
Donald Banks or
Christina Banks ms Dunnet
after 1804 in Ratter, Dunnet?
Thanks
Alastair
Australian Capital Territory
Anonymous
04-Jul-02, 07:48
Dear Davie,
Could you look up the Meiklejohn family in the monumental inscriptions. They come down from the highlands, Namely Wick and Thurso.
Some names are John Meiklejohn, George Meiklejohn, Donald Meiklejohn, There are many buried up there I know of one grave number 91.John Mucklejohn, Mason....
Not sure of any others, can you help???
thanks Aussfm :D
Re Banks & Meiklejohn. I'm just back after a few weeks away but will get on to these in the next day or so.
Alastair,
No record of a gravestone for Donald Banks or Christina Dunnet in Dunnet/Canisbay/Corsback/Olrig/Bower Cemetaries.
Sorry about the delay in getting back to you.
Have also checked the remaining cemetaries and again no trace of these names o combination.
Aussfm,
Several Meiklejohn tombstones located as under :-
LATHERON OLD CEMETARY -
John Meiklejon, died Spring Park, Thurso, 23 December 1853 aged 67, his wife Agnes Trotter died Dunbeath 16 January 1844, aged 40. Their son Alex died Queenstown, Aust. 28 July 1868 aged 36.
HALKIRK -
(Table Stone) Don Meiklejohn, Farmer, Sibster, died 30 July 1838, aged 66. His wife Barbara MacBeath, died 5 January 1836 aged 55. Erected by daughter Ann.
(Table Stone) John "Miklijohn", tenant at Miltown of Sordal, died 20 December 1781 aged 52, his wife Janet died 13 August 1819 aged 76.
WATTEN -
Don Meiklejohn, West Watten, died 18 June 1862 aged 67. His wife Mary Meiklejohn died 7 October 1860 aged 57.
George Meiklejohn, Bilbster, died 1 August 1841 aged 48, his wife Elizabeth Bremner died 15 October 1850 aged 56, daughter Isa died 15 June 1874 aged 39, son Don died 1 April 1880 aged 58.
These are the only Meiklejohns I can find with the forenames you quoted. Sorry about the delay in getting back to you.
davie, would you mind having a look for Donald Budge and Elizabeth Harper? I know they were married in Wick, but that's about all I know (I do have their children's names if you need them). They were married in Wick in 1815 and I probably passed near or before 1855.
I recently ordered a copy of their marriage record from the Registrar's office, but have yet to receive it.
Thanks, in advance, for your time and effort. :o)
G.
Can find no trace of Donald Budge/Elizabeth Harper in any of the cemetary listings.
Note that the people who compiles these lists did NOT do the following : Halkirk Extension, Latheron Extension, Olrig Extension, Thurso New Cemetary, Mount Vernon, Wick New Cemetary.
If you are carrying on with your research from Marriage Certificate right thru to Death Certificates and find out where they lived at time of death then the Council burial ground records might help - the North Highland Archive in Wick would be able to point you in the right direction on these.
Thanks for trying and thanks for the info, davie! :o)
Do you know of any cemeteries in Wick that have their archives online? I'm living overseas so searching any archives in person is just not possible right now. Someday.... :D
Anonymous
05-Aug-02, 11:23
Dear Davie thanks for the assistance very Grateful
Aussfm :D
Anonymous
30-Aug-02, 10:18
Hi davie,
Wondering if you could look up in your list a couple of names . . .
James MANSON and his wife Euphen (MALCOLM). Apparently James was born before 1701 in Watten, Caithness.
Another name if you don't mind is David MANSON born about MAY 1724 in Banks of Scowthell, Watten.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers,
Wade
NZ :)
Wade,
Sorry but no luck with the search for James Manson & his wife or David Manson in any of the indices I have. Very few tombstones are listed for burials in the late 1700's or early 1800's - perhaps they were not generally inscribed at that time or otherwise 200 years of Caithness weather has obliterated the markings. Certainly there are literally hundreds of Manson buried throughout the County but none that tie in to these dates.
Davie
Anonymous
02-Sep-02, 10:09
Davie
Thanks very much for your time!
Wade
Alastair Banks
24-Oct-02, 12:36
Hi Davie,
Would you mind looking for a Jean MOWAT, died somewhere between 1809 and 1819 and is probably buried in Wick. Jean's husband was Peter DOULL, a joiner in Pulteneytown.
Thanks
Alastair
Sydney, Australia
Alastair
No trace of Jean Mowat or Peter Doull in the listings for Wick Old Cemetary. I will have a look at the landward areas in the next day or so.
Davie
Alastair
I have checked all the indices for Jean Mowat/Peter Doull - no luck .
Whilst checking I found the following entries that may have relevance to your search re the family of Donald Banks/Christian Dunnett :
In Dunnet Cemetary
"John Shearer, Farmer, Warse, died 7 April 1871 aged 83 years.
His wife Elizabeth Banks, died 3 May 1890 aged 89.Family Elizabeth 1886?? 16 months, George 26 April 1854 aged 24, Elizabeth 4 June 1863 aged 25."
There is an obvious typographical error on the entry for Elizabeth (the First).
"George Banks, Shoemaker, Rattar, Dunnet, died 31 March 1879 aged 74".
There are many entries for Banks in the records for Dunnet & Canisbay and it may be that some of those are related to your search but no other names tie in to the dates you quoted.
Good luck with it.
Davie
Alastair Banks
25-Oct-02, 22:52
Hi Davie
Thanks for that. I'd found Peter DOULL and Jean MOWAT marrying in Thurso in 1793, three christenings in Thurso (including Ann, my 3G-grandmother) and another 3 children christened in Wick, the last being John in 1809. I was looking through the OPR the other day when I found Peter DOULL, a joiner in Pulteneytown (which was the same details given for him on John BANKS and Ann DOULL's marriage record) marrying Isobell MacBeath in 1819 in Wick.
Thanks for the information on Elizabeth and George BANKS in Dunnet. I think that they're my 3G-grand aunt and uncle. I hadn't realised Elizabeth had survived beyond 1881. I'd better see if I can find her in the census.
Best wishes
Alastair
donsimpson
14-Mar-03, 03:52
Hi Davie
I'm looking for information on my GGGgrandfather John Simpson born in Canisbay possibly Stroma.He was married to Elizabeth Sinclair in 1825.He died between 1825 and 1841.He had a son John.Any info would be appreciated.
Thanks
Don Simpson
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when their ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
Davie,
Wondered if a John HORNE or a Mary HORNE (nee CAMPBELL) appear in the listings mentioned above. I believe at one time they lived in Wick.
Thanks in anticipation :Razz
Hi Davie :)
I know this is a long shot - but I am wanting to find relatives of mine buried in Caithness. Maybe Reay?
I have included my site for anyone interested in the Mackenzie line and to see if anyone can help me. In particular I need dates for Hugh, David and Jean born about 1787 to 1798. I have come to a complete standstill with them. :(
http://mywebpage.netscape.com/margotsdream/Mackenzie.htm
I know Mackenzie is a very popular name and I could be grasping at straws - but any help with any other Mackenzies in that era would be appreciated as they could be related to me and that would then fill some gaps.
Thank you - and have a good day!
Margot - from windy Wellington - New Zealand
Davie,
Do not know much about this couple - if I didn't know better I'd swear they didn't exist.
They had a daughter Johanna Campbell HORNE chr/born 28 August 1821, near Wick, Caithness.. apart from her marriage in Edinburgh in 1844 have been unable to trace this couple. The birth date comes
from information Johanna left behind - but have not found her in any christening OPRs.
John was supposedly in the East India Company.
This is all I know about John HORNE and Mary CAMPBELL... so wondered if they may appear in any burial registers/lists you have?
Thanks in anticipation
Pam
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when their ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
Davie,
Wondered if a John HORNE or a Mary HORNE (nee CAMPBELL) appear in the listings mentioned above. I believe at one time they lived in Wick.
Thanks in anticipation :Razz :confused :confused
I need help finding my famliy deaths.
John Phimester Married Christina Sutherland no dates at all and another is Alexander Phimester (Pre 1888)Married to a Willimina Laird Dunnet(b.6 may 1863 in Canisbay)
Thanks
Rachelle Clayton
Canada
Hi Davie,
Wondering if you are able to help me with a list of all McKays buried in Caithness Cemeteries between 1870 and 1900. Sorry, I know this is a big task, but it would really help me in my search for my Scottish ancestors. You can email me on veronica_paul2002@yahoo.com.au
Thanks in anticipation
Veronica Brown
:o) :eek:
G'day Davie
Just found this message and hope you are still looking up Caithness Cemeteries. I am trying to find the William Manson who married Ann Gair around 1800. They had both passed on by the time their son William Manson married Agnes Ross at Berriedale Inn, Caithness in 1859 but can't find any death certificates etc. William (the son) was a farmer at the Inn. William and Agnes emmigrated to Australia in 1864 so I am trying to find my ancesters. I have details of the Aussie Mansons should anyone be interested. Can you help please???
Cheers, Lynnette :D
Robinson Manson
07-Feb-05, 18:54
The listings for Trostan show the following Omans/Mansons :
Robert MacKenzie Manson died Greenvale Dunnet 4 December 1927 aged 69, his wife Jane Oman died Sibster Halkirk 31 March 1945 aged 85. Son Nicolas accidentally killed Pass.??, Saskatchewan 7 October 1921 aged 39.
There are 13 entries for Manson as well , I am a big bit no weel at the moment and dont have the energy to type them all in today. If the Manson/Oman above is NOT the one you are looking for can you be any more specific and I'll have another look.
Davie,
I was just going through your posts and saw the above. I am quite sure that the people mentioned are my grandfathers parents. He was born George Manson on June 21 1889 in Framside. The birth was registered in Halkirk on July 6, 1889. in the parish records I believe.
His parents are listed as Robert Manson, quarry labourer and Jane Manson (Oman), who were married in Halkirk on September 3rd, 1880.
What I'm curious about is you mentioned a son, Nicholas. Did your sourse mention any other children? Also, do you know of any other online sources that I might use to trace further back.
Regards,
Robinson
I am wondering if you have any information on any Simpson's that are in the Canisbay area. My ggggrandfather was a Matthew Simpson who married a Margaret Wat(t)er in and around 1742. His father was a William Simpson married to Margaret Waters, Matthew was born around 1711. Anything you can find on any Simpson's is greatly appreciated. They seem to be an elusive bunch!
Thanx so much for any help you can give
Jackie Miller
Canada
lassieinfife
05-Mar-05, 09:39
hi..
any info on a Jasper Sutherland 1799>1881 Latheron/upper clyth, his wife Jane/Jean Gunn?
also any detail of the McPherson family from same area who lived Newlands latheron
My GGG Grandmother was Jane (or Jean) Wares Bruce, wife of James Bruce. She died at Pulteneytown 2 April 1864. It's a long shot (I doubt any of them had headstones) but I'd appreciate you checking whenever you have the time.
Thanks in advance,
Dixie Cutler
Davie I wonder if you can help me - I am really stuck with John MacDonald and his wife Jean Paterson - there is no trace of them since their daughter's marriage in 1842,
Latheron. This daughter was born abt 1826
I understand John had served in the Army- he may be down as Pensioner .
Many thanks
SD
Does Davie, or whoever had the 4 volumes of cemetery inscriptions still online? I am new to this area and I am looking for Mowat(t)'s who might be buried in Canisbay - mostly early records up to the early 1800's if any such monuments exist.
Thanksjavascript:emoticon(':D')
javascript:emoticon(':D')
Rich Nichols,
Greer, SC, USA
Hi Davie
I am looking for the plot of john dewar sutherland i think he is buried in wick cemetery
can you help?
thanks zena
lynn prow
29-Jun-05, 12:39
Hi
Where do you buy the above. I am in Australia have lots of ancestors on family tree from Caithness. I thought if I was able to get a copy it may help my research. Are they available on cd or in books. I am looking for Clynes, Millers, and hoped the above may help my research.
thanks for reading email
Lynn ps my mum living with me is a Clyne
id love to hear form anyone that might be able to tell me anything about John and Janet or their descendants.
cheers
Richard Anderson
John and Janet married 8th Feb 1856 in Dunbeath when he was 30 and she was 24.
Johns parents were David Sutherland and Margaret Gunn, they married 16 March 1821
and lived at Achavroal Dunbeath.
Here is the 1841 census for the household:
District: 5 Folio: 0 Page: 8
Address: Achvroal
SUTHD. David M 44 Farmer Caithness
SUTHD. Margt. F 42 Caithness
SUTHD. Jane F 17 Caithness
SUTHD. John M 15 Caithness
SUTHD. Margt. F 13 Caithness
SUTHD. James M 11 Caithness
SUTHD. Donald M 6 Caithness
SUTHD. Jemima F 2 Caithness
In the 1861 census David and Margaret and their daughter Margaret still lived there along with a Mary 20 and a William 7.
hugh ross
30-Jun-05, 02:09
Lynn
You can get them from Amazon. Search for Caithness Monumental
Hi Lynn
Caithness Monumental Inscriptions (Pre-1855): Vol 1 , 2, 3 and 4
by A.S. Cowper, I. Ross
I found this site in Australia which has the 4 vols listed but don't know how the price compares with UK. http://www.gould.com.au/
Scottish Monumental Inscriptions Pre-1855 Caithness Vol. 1
A. Cowper | Book | 142pp | 1992 | SCG017 | $29.50
Burial Grounds covered are: Canisbay, Canisbay Extension, Dunnet, Corsback, Olrig, Bower.
Scottish Monumental Inscriptions Pre-1855 Caithness Vol. 2
A. Cowper & I. Ross | Book | 184pp | 1992 | SCG018 | $35.00
Burial Grounds covered are: Wick (Old), Keiss, Thrumster, Ulbster, Watten, Dunn (Old Hall).
Scottish Monumental Inscriptions Pre-1855 Caithness Vol. 3
A. Cowper & I. Ross | Book | 152pp | 1992 | SCG019 | $25.00
Burial Grounds covered are: Brims, Thurso (St Peter's Church), Trostan (Westfield), Crosskirk, Reay (Old), Reay (New), Achreny, Dalnawillan, Dirlot, Dorrery, Halkirk, Spittal (St Magnus), Skinnet, Westerdale.
Scottish Monumental Inscriptions Pre-1855 Caithness Vol. 4
A. Cowper & I. Ross | Book | 120pp | 1992 | SCG020 | $25.00
Burial Grounds covered are: Latherton (Old), Berridale (Old), Berridale (New), Braemore, Tout-Na-Goul, Mullbuie, Mid Clyth, Camster, Ballachly, St Triduana.
UK : www.Amazon.co.uk have them to order at £5.50 or £6.00 per book plus postage.
Tricia
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when their ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
Hi Davie
Do the listings show any Harpers or Banks. I am looking for a Donald Harper died 10/3/1887 aged 78. His wife Janet Banks died 22/2/1884 aged 75. Donald's parents were Donald Harper & Elizabeth Forbes. Janets parenst were Mangus Banks & Isabella Leith. Any info would be fab
Hi Davie
Do the listings show any Harpers or Banks. I am looking for a Donald Harper died 10/3/1887 aged 78. His wife Janet Banks died 22/2/1884 aged 75. Donald's parents were Donald Harper & Elizabeth Forbes. Janets parenst were Mangus Banks & Isabella Leith. Any info would be fab
I don't know that Davie is still around Maria, he hasn't posted since 2002.
I can't find Donald or Janet in the Monumental Inscriptions for Wick, I have them on the 1841, 1851 and 1881 census returns if that would help.
I don't know that Davie is still around Maria, he hasn't posted since 2002.
I can't find Donald or Janet in the Monumental Inscriptions for Wick, I have them on the 1841, 1851 and 1881 census returns if that would help.
Hi Fred
Thank you for looking in the Monumental Inscription, pity they are not there. The census information would be great.
Many thanks
Maria
Davie, I wonder if your listings could solve a problem I am stuck over. John Bremner (Brimner) married a Catherine Bain in 1804 and had 4 children between 1805 and 1811. Later ie 1812 a John Bremner (with son Alexander ) was the husband of Henrietta Sinclair but with no word of what had happened to Catherine and the 3 younger childen Janet, Donald and John.
They were living in Sarclet or Wick town. Would you have a listing for Catherine and the children.
I am holding my breath.
Regards Marion
Hi,
I wondered if you could be so kind as to see if there is a M.I. for a Janet Campbell? As far as I know she was born 24.3.1800 and died Aug 9 1850 (aged 50). She was married to a William Brock from Thurso. Any information appreciated
Hi,
Janet and Wm. Brock are buried in Thurso: St. Peter's Church.
Janet Campbell 9.8.1850 aged 52, husband Wm. Brock farmer, son James 16.1.1851 aged 23 (w. Mary Graham 12.1.1851 aged 25.
Mary.
Thanks for that! I'm sure these are the right ones as they had a son James, and his wife, who died at that time. What I'd really like to find is the parents of William Brock and Janet Campbell, but am unsure how to proceed/where to look next. Any suggestions gratefully received!
Thanks again for the quick response and for the interest shown!
[QUOTE=marionq]Davie, I wonder if your listings could solve a problem I am stuck over. John Bremner (Brimner) married a Catherine Bain in 1804 and had 4 children between 1805 and 1811. Later ie 1812 a John Bremner (with son Alexander ) was the husband of Henrietta Sinclair but with no word of what had happened to Catherine and the 3 younger childen Janet, Donald and John.
They were living in Sarclet or Wick town. Would you have a listing for Catherine and the children.
Hello Marion.
I checked the MI'S for Wick and I can't find an entry for Catherine Bain.
Maybe you have this info. from the 1841 census,
Piece: SCT1841/43 Place: Wick-Caithness Enumeration District: 7
Civil Parish: Wick Ecclesiastical Parish, Village or Island: -
Folio: 0 Page: 7
Address: Sarclet
John 70 occ. Labourer
Henrietta 60
John 20 occ. Fisher
Elizabeth 18
James 15
Andrew 12
Mary.
I'm sure these are the right ones as they had a son James, and his wife, who died at that time. What I'd really like to find is the parents of William Brock and Janet Campbell, but am unsure how to proceed/where to look next. Any suggestions gratefully received!
Hi,
Happy to be off some help. Now I have checked the IGI and found a birth for a Janet Campbell 22 March 1798 Thurso parents James Campbell & Christian Gray which is a possiblity as two off Janet's children were named James and Christian, off course you would have to try and verify this. I found the family on the 1841 census for Thurso. If you wish you can email and I'll try and see if I can find anymore info. for you. Genealogy is my hobby and I am always willing to help.
Regards Mary
Hello again,
I have just checked the 1881 census and found your William Brock living at Rose Street, Thurso, he is living there with with his second wife Christina, daughter Elizabeth 26 and son Malcolm 22.
This means you can get his death certificate which will give you the names of his parents. In 1881 William gave his age as 74 which made him born 1807, now this ties in with the his age on the 1841 census, address is also the same.
On Scotlands People web site there is death for a Wm. Brock in 1884 in Thurso b. 1807 so I would say this is your man.
http://www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk
Mary
Thanks Mary, yes I do have that. I keep hoping someone has come up with some new source of material and to be honest Fred found me some info a while ago. My brain must be going soft because I thought this was a different source - clutching at straws. The problem is probably that prior to 1855 when people died they often tried to avoid death taxes by not registering the death and I guess if a wife and 3 children died they would have a lot to think about and a lot of expense so registering would be avoided if at all possible.
Marion
Thanks a lot for that. Will have to check this out!
Thanks Mary, yes I do have that. I keep hoping someone has come up with some new source of material and to be honest Fred found me some info a while ago. My brain must be going soft because I thought this was a different source - clutching at straws. The problem is probably that prior to 1855 when people died they often tried to avoid death taxes by not registering the death and I guess if a wife and 3 children died they would have a lot to think about and a lot of expense so registering would be avoided if at all possible.
Marion
No there were no taxes, they just didn't keep a record of deaths. A Minister wasn't needed as with a christening or marriage and there were a lot of graveyards scattered about. In the Statistical Accounts for Latheron they didn't even know how many people had died let alone who they were.
I think it's possible that someone who died in one of the frequent epedemics in Wick could have been burried in the graveyard on the south of the town opposite where Lidles is now perhaps in communal graves. I don't know for sure but on the maps made later in the 1800s the fever hospital is right next to the cemetery so I suspect that in the early 1800s they isolated anyone who was sick on the outskirts of town and that the cemetery was started to cater for them.
http://www.graven-images.org.uk/temp/fever.jpg
HI Mary, ED2005 and I are researching the same family. We did get William Brock's Death Record and it shows his parents. The problem I am having with it is the Death was registered one of his sons from the second marriage and I'm not sure that the information is accurate, since we can't seem to locate the people. Could you elaborate on the process that the registrar would have used to record a Death? Did he take the information from the person registering the death, which was the practice in the US, or would he have look the information up in the Birth and Marriage registers. The reason I ask this is that in William Brocks Death Record, it mentions both marriages and under Christian Ross's name it says "Illegitimate". I thought that was odd, I wouldn't think that the youngest son would be privi to that type of information about his mum, and figured that the Reigistrar got it from some where else. He also has accurate information about Williams 1st Marriage. Any light you can shed on this would be greatly appreciated.
HI Mary, ED2005 and I are researching the same family. We did get William Brock's Death Record and it shows his parents. The problem I am having with it is the Death was registered one of his sons from the second marriage and I'm not sure that the information is accurate, since we can't seem to locate the people. Could you elaborate on the process that the registrar would have used to record a Death? Did he take the information from the person registering the death, which was the practice in the US, or would he have look the information up in the Birth and Marriage registers. The reason I ask this is that in William Brocks Death Record, it mentions both marriages and under Christian Ross's name it says "Illegitimate". I thought that was odd, I wouldn't think that the youngest son would be privi to that type of information about his mum, and figured that the Reigistrar got it from some where else. He also has accurate information about Williams 1st Marriage. Any light you can shed on this would be greatly appreciated.
HI,
To answer your question about accurate information. The registrar takes the information from the person registering the death, in some cases the information is not accurate which I have come across a couple of times in my research,when the son registered his mother's death he got the christian name of his grandmother wrong.
Is it the parents of William that you can not locate?. I couldn't find a birth for Wm. on IGI or Scotlands People, so I presume they did not register his birth.
Regards
Mary
William Brock is the one I am questioning. I assumed that they didn't register his birth either because I couldn't find it on IGI. But I also couldn't find his parents Marriage on IGI Either. Which make's me wonder if they came from somewhere else. I thought the Marriage would have had to have gotten registered, but I am not as familiar with my Scottish historical customs as I should be. Was it a Law back then? I know in 1855 the law took effect and we have much better records as a result.
What could the possible explainations for this be? Why wouldn't they have registered the Birth or the Marriage? Was this common? Just looking for insite and background.
I've ordered the Monument Inscription Book 3 so I can look them up when I get it. I'll also have to see if there are any death on IGI.
Thanks for all your help.
What could the possible explainations for this be?
Was his mother a Miller?
William Brock is the one I am questioning. I assumed that they didn't register his birth either because I couldn't find it on IGI. But I also couldn't find his parents Marriage on IGI Either. Which make's me wonder if they came from somewhere else. I thought the Marriage would have had to have gotten registered, but I am not as familiar with my Scottish historical customs as I should be. Was it a Law back then? I know in 1855 the law took effect and we have much better records as a result.
What could the possible explainations for this be? Why wouldn't they have registered the Birth or the Marriage? Was this common? Just looking for insite and background.
I've ordered the Monument Inscription Book 3 so I can look them up when I get it. I'll also have to see if there are any death on IGI.
Thanks for all your help.
Hello,
William Brock gave his birth place as Thurso in the 1851 & 1881 Census, like I said it was not compulsary to register a birth,marriage or deaths before 1855 in Scotland. I'm afraid you won't be able to get any death records on IGI.
Here is the details on the 1881 Census for Wm. Brock and family:
Dwelling: Rose St
Census Place: Thurso, Caithness, Scotland
Source: FHL Film 0203402 GRO Ref Volume 041 EnumDist 1 Page 32
Marr Age Sex Birthplace
William BROCK M 74 M Thurso, Caithness, Scotland
Rel: Head
Occ: Carter
Christina BROCK M 67 F Canisbay, Caithness, Scotland
Rel: Wife
Elizabeth BROCK U 26 F Thurso, Caithness, Scotland
Rel: Daur
Malcolm BROCK U 22 M Thurso, Caithness, Scotland
Rel: Son
Regards
Mary.
Fred,
Yes she was a Miller, her name was Catherine Miller. We got that along with the Name Donald Brock as his father off of the Death Certificate. I want to find an additional source for this information because the Death was registered by one of his sons from the second marriage and I'm not sure that the information is accurate, since we can't seem to locate the people and tie them all together.
Any insite you may have on this subject would be greatly appreciated?
Doug
Fred,
Yes she was a Miller, her name was Catherine Miller. We got that along with the Name Donald Brock as his father off of the Death Certificate. I want to find an additional source for this information because the Death was registered by one of his sons from the second marriage and I'm not sure that the information is accurate, since we can't seem to locate the people and tie them all together.
Any insite you may have on this subject would be greatly appreciated?
Doug
The IGI have the parish record:
WILLIAM BROAKE OR MILLER
Male
Event(s):
Birth:
Christening:
02 APR 1807 Thurso, Caithness, Scotland
Death:
Burial:
Parents:
Father: DONALD BROAKE Family
Mother: CATHARINE MILLER
They also have a submitted record with the spelling Brooke which adds that the birth was at Ormley.
Originally Posted by Fred
Thank You Fred. This is most helpful.
Doug
Hi
I am new to the forum, is it possible to look at the inscriptions by surname?
If so I am looking for James Ferguson born about 1790. His marriage is transcribed as Farquharson. His death would be in Thurso or Wick between 1820-25.
Many thanks
Jean
Hi
I am new to the forum, is it possible to look at the inscriptions by surname?
If so I am looking for James Ferguson born about 1790. His marriage is transcribed as Farquharson. His death would be in Thurso or Wick between 1820-25.
Many thanks
Jean
Wick Parish Church
James Farquar[son], treasurer of the Bible Society, died in 1824 aged 69.
Wife Christian Steven died [?]7th August 1822 aged 52.
Son James, student, died 12th July 1822 aged 22.
George Farquar, schoolmaster.
Thank you very much for replying so quickly unfortunately it is mine. this is the info I have
James Ferguson/Farquharson married 1816 Wick
Catherine Horne
I have found a Catharine Horne marrying in 1825 and wondered if James had died as can't find him anywhere. If so it would be after birth of last child 1820
Jean
Hi,
I was wondering if you could help me please I'm looking for the burial of a Margaret Bain nee Bruce she died between 1841 and 1851 and her husband William Bain who died in1857 both in the wick area. Thank you for any help in this matter.
yvonne
Hi,
I was wondering if you could help me please I'm looking for the burial of a Margaret Bain nee Bruce she died between 1841 and 1851 and her husband William Bain who died in1857 both in the wick area. Thank you for any help in this matter.
yvonne
I can't see anything.
There are a one or two flat stones just say William Bain but no Margaret Bruce that I can see.
Hi Fred,
Thank you so much for trying for me.
yvonne
Hi -sounds wonderful- I'm looking for William Henderson m Isobell Jack in Westerdeal Halkirk 1784- their sons Donanl and John emigrated to Canada c 1817- however I believe the parents remained in Halkirk- I hope you can find info re these persons
Hi -sounds wonderful- I'm looking for William Henderson m Isobell Jack in Westerdeal Halkirk 1784- their sons Donanl and John emigrated to Canada c 1817- however I believe the parents remained in Halkirk- I hope you can find info re these persons
Can't see them.
DanielleFromDownUnder
26-Jun-06, 13:54
Thank you for the kind offer. Would you be able to check for the following individuals (I am not sure which areas fall within Caithness or Sutherland?):
Donald MATHESON died 26 Nov 1826 Lairg.
Nathaniel POLSON died 18 Apr 1870 in Parish of Stornoway
Alexander POLSON died pre 1841 possibly in Kildonan area born c1770
and finally
Margaret ROSS nee POLSON died 24 Jul 1877 in Pultneytown
With much thanks
Danielle
Thank you for the kind offer. Would you be able to check for the following individuals (I am not sure which areas fall within Caithness or Sutherland?):
Donald MATHESON died 26 Nov 1826 Lairg.
Nathaniel POLSON died 18 Apr 1870 in Parish of Stornoway
Alexander POLSON died pre 1841 possibly in Kildonan area born c1770
and finally
Margaret ROSS nee POLSON died 24 Jul 1877 in Pultneytown
With much thanks
Danielle
There's only Pultneytown in Caithness and 1877 is a little late for the Monumental Inscriptions which mainly covers pre 1855 inscriptions. After 1855 deaths had to be registered so people can get a copy of the death certificate.
DanielleFromDownUnder
27-Jun-06, 11:26
Thanks very much for the quick reply.
Best Wishes
Danielle
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when their ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
I am trying to find the death of James Campbell husband of Christina Sutherland
JAMES CAMPBELL was alive approx 1858 when his son James was conceived, he died before 22 Feb 1861 when Christina remarried.
I have them living at Bank Row Wick Census 1851
Christina and her new husband were living in Thuster Wick Census1861
Sylvia
DanielleFromDownUnder
08-Jul-06, 14:56
Hi Again
Would it be possible for you to check for some of the following individuals all of Wick Caithness, I am not sure if the dates are too early or if the information I have is too vague:
Finella COGHILL (wife of John ROSS) born 1735 Thuster Wick is the daughter of William Coghill and Margaret Sutherland.
Also
John POLSON and Margaret MULLIKEN married 1760 in Wick. Death dates unknown.
With thanks
Danielle
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when t
heir ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
I have a grandmother buried somewhere in caithness she lived in thurso rd wick her name was Christina and her husband was called james can you help because i am getting nowhere
maureen smith
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when their ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
I forgot to say that my grandmothers name was christina miller and james miller
maureen smith
I have a grandmother buried somewhere in caithness she lived in thurso rd wick her name was Christina and her husband was called james can you help because i am getting nowhere
hi Maureen
The Monumental Inscriptions books only list the graves of people born before 1855.
Hi Davie,
your offer of a look up is just too hard to resist. Thank you in advance. I have Florans/Florence Manson (nee Calder,) she was baptised Dec 1749 in Bower ,daughter of Lourence Calder. She married William Manson(Bridgend) in 1770.( Her daughter Magdalen Innes is buried at Olrig.) I have no idea where they lived and I am at a brickwall . I have downloaded a will from SP for a Lawrence Calder in Moray in 1761 ,husband of Mary Mackintosh. It mentions 3 children but no names or sex.Are any of these names on your lists?Florence had a sister Kaithren c 1747. William I have no information on. I am hoping if I'm lucky enough to have a transcipt of a grave it may give me some clues to follow.
Thank you again
Cheers
Rhandy (Australia)
Rhandy, I had a check in the MIs for Caithness and found nothing, I'm afraid. Do you have the inscription on the Magdalen Innes stone already, btw?
If you want to see if there is anything on Calders in Moray, have you tried
http://libindx.moray.gov.uk/mainmenu.asp
Hi Davie,
thank you for looking for me. I went to the link and it gave me Lawrence
and Mary. Might be mine, but no Florence, but will keep it...just in case. Magdalen's grave I have a photo of as Jamie S was kind enough to send me lots of piccis of it. Kingetter sent me piccis of where she was born at Tansfield. I am getting quite a collection. The only marriage I can find for Lauarence (sic) Calder in Kentown? is to Kathren Calder from Strath of Bylbther? July 4 1730.
Thanks again Davie.Cheers
Rhandy
Bonnie Parker-Duke
26-Nov-07, 02:33
Davie,
Thank you for offering! I'm looking for a grave/death date for Alexander Farquhar b. 23 August 1835. Latheron, and his wife Margaret Harper Farquhar, unknown birthdate and place. I have no clue when either of them died. I would appreciate any help you could give me.
Thank you.
Bonnie Parker-Duke
ronald paul mac donald
01-Apr-08, 10:53
Hi we found hereunder but as we are looking for pre John Mac Donald buried here born 1753 died march 3 1840 hoping you can help.
Ronald Mac Donald
Research into the background of William MacDonald of Navidale, one of the heroes of the Land League, through Census records and parish registers finally linked three tombstones, two at Dalnawillan and one at Kildonan. William's father, John, and his grandfather, John Macdonald of Achscoroclate, a noted Caithness cattle drover, are buried at Dalnawillan. Grandfather Macdonald was married to Barbara Gordon, a daughter, of Alexander Gordon, tacksman of Dalcharn, and his wife Isabella Sutherland and of the Strathuilligh Sutherlands. Barbara Gordon had a sister, Ann, who married John Gordon of Saluschraiggie. Later Ann possessed a sheep farm in Caithness. Her daughter, Isabella, was William Macdonald's mother so that his parents were cousins. A tombstone at Kildonan records William's great grandparents - the tacksman of Dalcharn and his Sutherland wife: on the same stone is William's mother Isabella. Sage in Memorabilia Domestica recounts how Ann Gordon made tea by putting a pound of tea into a gallon of water and seasoning it with butter, pepper and salt.
If the offer of help is still there, I would love to know where any Brocks from Thurso are buried. I have actually visited St Peters and Mt Vernon in Thurso and got a few clues, but perhaps I missed a few... I don't know if there are any other cemetaries in Thurso.
Blacksmith
18-Sep-08, 08:56
Caithness Family History Society (CFHS) is at present working with the Scottish Family History Society (SFHS) on a project to transcrible all memorials in Scotland.
The CFHS has just printed our first booklet, this transcribes all the memorials in the Keiss first cemetery, which is available in local outlets. Our next will be printed shortly on Watten's first cemetery. Our aim is to have in print the transcriptions of all Caithness memorials.
vanessajw
30-Sep-08, 17:56
I am looking for Kennedy ancestors in Canisbay, does your MI book list any Kennedys near or in Canisbay area, or Olrig, or Brabster parishes? If so I would be most interested as according to a genealogist records cease in the area before 1760 and it's this period 1760-1800 I am looking for.
Bonnie Parker-Duke
01-Oct-08, 05:22
Davie,
I am looking for the grave of David Harper b. 5 Feb 1799 in Wick and died sometime between the 1841 and 1851 censuses. He was farming at Bilbster at the time of his death. His wife was Barbara Robertson Harper but she and her family emigrated to Canada after David's death. I'm looking for David's death date and any other information available and am wondering if you can tell who may be buried near him. I'm looking for possibly children of a previous marriage of either him or his wife as the 1851 census lists grandchildren who are listed as McBeath and Sutherland but I have no idea who their parents were.
I'd appreciate any assistance.
Bonnie Parker-Duke
Magnolia, Arkansas
I am looking for Kennedy ancestors in Canisbay, does your MI book list any Kennedys near or in Canisbay area, or Olrig, or Brabster parishes? If so I would be most interested as according to a genealogist records cease in the area before 1760 and it's this period 1760-1800 I am looking for.
A few Kennedys in Canisbay, mostly wives, but none with birth dates before 1801 that I can find. One in Olrig but after 1800.
Some of those in Canisbay are from Brabster.
You want to give names?
Davie,
I am looking for the grave of David Harper b. 5 Feb 1799 in Wick and died sometime between the 1841 and 1851 censuses. He was farming at Bilbster at the time of his death. His wife was Barbara Robertson Harper but she and her family emigrated to Canada after David's death. I'm looking for David's death date and any other information available and am wondering if you can tell who may be buried near him. I'm looking for possibly children of a previous marriage of either him or his wife as the 1851 census lists grandchildren who are listed as McBeath and Sutherland but I have no idea who their parents were.
I'd appreciate any assistance.
Bonnie Parker-Duke
Magnolia, Arkansas
The only David Harpers in Wick Old Cemetery are outwith the 1841-1851 dates, I'm afraid.
Bonnie Parker-Duke
02-Oct-08, 15:26
Thank you anyway. It was a stab in the dark!
Bonnie
ronald paul mac donald
23-Oct-08, 15:12
I have just got 4 volumes of listings for (I think) all cemetaries in Caithness so if anyone needs to check out where and when their ancestors are buried let me know and I'll try to help. :eek:
hi davie hope you van help !!!!Iam looking for as quoted hereunder !!!
we found hereunder but as we are looking for pre John Mac Donald buried here born 1753 died march 3 1840 hoping you can help.
Ronald Mac Donald
Research into the background of William MacDonald of Navidale, one of the heroes of the Land League, through Census records and parish registers finally linked three tombstones, two at Dalnawillan and one at Kildonan. William's father, John, and his grandfather, John Macdonald of Achscoroclate, a noted Caithness cattle drover, are buried at Dalnawillan. Grandfather Macdonald was married to Barbara Gordon, a daughter, of Alexander Gordon, tacksman of Dalcharn, and his wife Isabella Sutherland and of the Strathuilligh Sutherlands. Barbara Gordon had a sister, Ann, who married John Gordon of Saluschraiggie. Later Ann possessed a sheep farm in Caithness. Her daughter, Isabella, was William Macdonald's mother so that his parents were cousins. A tombstone at Kildonan records William's great grandparents - the tacksman of Dalcharn and his Sutherland wife: on the same stone is William's mother Isabella.
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