“A considerable degree of acuteness and shrewdness is observed among the population”, wrote the Rev Peter Jolly in 1840, describing his flock in the parish of Canisbay, Caithness. Walter Ross, my x 3 grandfather, had lately been one of them. Walter – in outline He was born on 17 August 1786, the son of Hugh | more…
“He was a charming man”, said Agnes Ross to her grand-daughter. Who was she taking about? None other than Al Capone! So how did Agnes (1891-1983 née MacKenzie), an island girl from Stornoway, Lewis, come to meet the famous gangster? The link is her husband, Andrew Ross, first cousin of my grandfather, John. Andrew Ross | more…
There were several teachers in my family tree but I’m focusing on one this time: Auntie Mimie. Tomima Slater (1892-1956) Auntie Mimie was born at Gara, Orphir on 18 January 1892, the ninth child of William H Slater and Tomima Groundwater. The family was poor, work was scarce. My maternal grandfather, James, one of her | more…
