WAR MEMORIALS

in INVERURIE

2014

AIM In the Centenary Year of the commencement of the Great War, the aim has been to trace the history of Inverurie War Memorial from the outset to completion. The events have been traced using newspaper reports [1] [2] but with reference to Inverurie Town Council Minutes and other sources. Cemetery visits were also made, where possible, to confirm dates and relationships. Information on the artist, Mr James Philip, who was an employee of Arthur Taylor & Co of Aberdeen, the company of monumental masons who carried out the work, is also included. Other memorials within Inverurie commemorating both World Wars have also been researched as, during the course of the project, it was discovered that there were servicemen named on those memorials whose names were not on the Town Square memorial. K Sumner

November 2014

Contents SECTION 1 – WORLD WAR I ............................................................................................................. 1

INVERURIE & DISTRICT WAR MEMORIAL 1

THE ARTIST – Mr James Philip 15

THE MODELS 15

CHURCH MEMORIALS ..................................................................................................................... 16

INVERURIE UNITED FREE CHURCH (Now West Church) 16

ST ANDREW’S PARISH CHURCH 17

ST MARY’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 19

OTHER MEMORIALS ........................................................................................................................ 20

ABERDEENSHIRE CONSTABULARY 20

ANCIENT ORDER OF FORESTERS 20

INVERURIE GARDENERS’ (Lilac Lodge of Ancient Free Gardeners. Lodge 195) 20

LOYAL ORDER OF ANCIENT SHEPHERDS 20

ST ANTHONY MASONIC LODGE OF FREEMASONS (No 154) 21

SECTION 2 - WORLD WAR II ........................................................................................................... 22

CHURCH MEMORIALS ..................................................................................................................... 23

INVERURIE WEST CHURCH – Chapel Chancel 23

ST ANDREW’S PARISH CHURCH - Chapel 24

COMMEMORATED ELSEWHERE – ................................................................................................ 25

ABERDEENSHIRE CONSTABULARY – INVERURIE 26

INVERURIE WEST CHURCH 26

ST ANDREW’S PARISH CHURCH 28

ST ANTHONY LODGE NO 154, INVERURIE 32

ST MARY’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHYARD 33

INVERURIE BASS CEMETERY 33

INVERURIE GARDENERS 43

APPENDICES .................................................................................................................................... 44

APPENDIX 1 – War Graves 44

APPENDIX 2 – Memorial Plaque (Widow’s Penny) 45

Bibliography ....................................................................................................................................... 46

1

SECTION 1 – WORLD WAR I

INVERURIE & DISTRICT WAR MEMORIAL

A selection of articles reflecting the progress of the War Memorial and Railings [1] October 9, 1916, p 4 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE’S WAR HEROES – Proposed Memorial for the Burgh At the Inverurie Town Council meeting to be held tonight the following motion by Baillie Lauder will be considered:

That the Town Council of Inverurie act along with a committee composed of co-opted members of the public in the burgh and parish of Inverurie for the purpose of designing and erecting a suitable memorial to the fallen heroes in the area belonging to the burgh and district of Inverurie and endeavour to collect funds for the same; and that the Town Council give a site on The Square somewhere between the triangle of trees there, and prepare the ground by fencing etc as may be decided by the said committee.

October 10, 1916 - Aberdeen Daily Journal – FALLEN SOLDIERS OF THE GARIOCH – Inverurie and Memorial The Inverurie Town Council last night displayed unanimity regarding the desirability of commemorating the soldiers from the burgh and district who have given their lives on service, but there was sharp division of opinion as to the procedure in materialising a project to this effect, and as to the nature and site of the memorial. Compromise ultimately was reached in the resolve to leave the decision of all the disputed points to a public meeting which will be called on an early occasion. The Council met in the Town Chamber, and Provost Skinner presided. Baillie Lauder raised the question by moving as follows – That the Town Council of Inverurie act along with a committee composed of co-opted members of the public in the burgh and parish of Inverurie for the purpose of designing and erecting a suitable memorial to the fallen heroes in the war belonging to the burgh and district of Inverurie, and endeavour to collect funds for the same; and that the Town Council give a site on the Square somewhere between the triangle of trees there, and prepare the ground by fencing, etc, as may be decided on by said committee.

The least that could be done, Baillie Lauder added, was to erect something suitable to the memory of those who had sealed their patriotism with their lives. It might be thought by some that to do as he proposed was somewhat premature in the meantime, but the sympathy of the people was very strong now, and after the war more demands would be made. Agricultural produce, again, would come down in value then, whereas agriculturalists were wealthy at present, and

they would be quite willing to contribute their quota. The money could easily be raised.

Objection was taken to the last clause in the motion with regard to the fencing, which committed the Council to any expenditure for that purpose that the proposed committee might decide, or which, alternatively, called upon subscribers in the district to pay for the fencing of a part of the Inverurie Square.

Baillie Lauder having consented to withdraw the clause specified, his motion, as curtailed was seconded by Treasurer Taylor, who said the majority of Inverurie people thought the time for some memorial was opportune. If that was so, the matter should be gone about as soon as possible. It was a reasonable request that the Town Council should give a site in the Square. It would improve its amenity.

Utility and Sentiment Baillie Eddie said he had spoken to influential ratepayers, many of whom were “dead against” putting up a memorial of stone and lime which was to cost a big sum of money. A number thought that something with more utility in it would be far more advantageous. Quite a few, too, thought that the thing ought to be left over until peace was declared. He was in favour of remitting back the motion; the Council were going rather too fast. They ought to take the ratepayers more into their confidence, and a public meeting might elicit helpful opinions and ideas.

The Provost moved a direct negative to the motion. The time for a memorial was very inopportune. It was most indiscreet, and almost indecent, to erect a memorial for a few who were fallen, and to regard those who might fall afterwards as if they did not matter. Apart from that altogether, it was pushing the thing much too far to fix upon a scheme, and elect a committee to carry it through without giving the committee any voice in what the scheme ought to be. Something that would benefit the widows and children of those who had fallen would be far more to the purpose than spending hundreds of pounds upon a memorial. If it was to be a memorial, some people thought that Inverurie Cemetery would be the most appropriate site. Baillie Eddie – I suggest a wing to the hospital. Baillie Lauder remarked that a splendid memorial – one that would beautify Inverurie and be worthy of the burgh – could be put up for £300. The Provost said his objection was not to the amount, but to going into a thing that would be of no use. Treasurer Taylor thought the Government were bound in honour to provide for all widows and orphans. The Provost – You know what the provision means.

2

Councillor Young – We have a most miserable Government. Baillie Lauder – I should be sorry if we could not go forward solidly in this matter. Provost Skinner – I object to having a particular scheme rammed down my throat. The Provost’s negative found no seconder. Baillie Eddie then moved that the matter be deferred for further consideration, and that a public meeting be called. Councillor McGregor seconded. Baillie Lauder withdrew the motion in favour of the amendment, and on the understanding that he would be at liberty to submit his proposal at the meeting decided upon, to which also would be left the co-option of the committee he had suggested, and the final decision as to the nature and form which the commemoration of the dead should take, and as to the site, if necessary.

November 2, 1916, p 6 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE MEMORIAL TO FALLEN HEROES – Public Meeting Decides

A public meeting was held in the Town Hall, Inverurie last night for the purpose of promoting a memorial to the soldiers belonging to the burgh and district who have fallen in the war. This scheme was discussed at the last meeting of the Town Council, which was evenly divided on the subject, and it was agreed to lay the matter before the electors. There was a large attendance, presided over by Provost Skinner, who was accompanied on the platform by Baillies Lauder, Rae and Eddie; Treasurer Taylor, Dean of Guild Simpson, and Councillors McGregor and Mitchell, Mr H Emslie, town clerk depute, was also present.

The Chairman explained the purpose of the meeting. The members of the Council at their meeting were, he thought, all agreed as to the late advisability of erecting something to commemorate the fallen soldiers of the burgh, but several members thought the proposal was rather premature. He himself though so.

Baillie Lauder proposed the following motion: “That this public meeting approve of erecting within the triangle of trees on the Square of Inverurie, a memorial to the men of the burgh and surrounding district who have fallen in the great war; that the Town Council be asked to grant a free site for this purpose; and that the Town Council, with nine others, be appointed a committee, with powers to add to their number, to provide for and erect a monument to be selected and duly inscribed.”

Treasurer Taylor said some 38 Inverurie men had been killed in the war. Did they not think that this proposal of Baillie Lauder’s would be a splendid idea. He thought the time had come to form a committee and raise the money (applause). At the present time Inverurie was flowing with money. He seconded Baillie Lauder’s motion.

Baillie Eddie said he was still under the impression that they could do better with the money. It wold be a good thing if they could put the money collected into something which would benefit the widows of those who had fallen, and also the men who were in poverty after having served in the war. Ex-Baillie Johnston spoke in support of Baillie Lauder’s motion. Mr Buchan said he was to move an amendment to Baillie Lauder’s motion. He did this because he thought the proposal was premature. If they agreed to Baillie’s Lauder’s motion, they were committed to it. They ought not to tie themselves down to a definite scheme. He had not come across one individual who was in favour of this memorial. (Shuffling of feet). He therefore proposed: “That this meeting resolved that it is desirable at some future time to erect a suitable memorial for those who have gone from this district to fight out battles, and that they proposed to form a committee to act along with the Town Council in this matter, and that no definite scheme be brought forward until at some future time the matter is placed before another public meeting.”

Mr T L Morrison, town chamberlain, spoke in support of Baillie Lauder’s motion. Mr John Watt seconded Mr Buchan’s amendment. Baillie’s Lauder’s motion was carried by a large majority.

The chairman protested against the meeting not giving the committee a chance of stating their views on the matter. He did so because it might lead to future action on his part. He did not want to be tied down to any particular scheme.

The following committee was then appointed from the meeting: Messrs James Adam, P W M Laing, T L Morrison, ex-Baillie Johnston, Alexander Burnett, ex-Provost Milne and Major Gray; along with the nine members of the committee.

November 22, 1916, p 3 – Aberdeen Journal – INVERURIE MEMORIAL TO FALLEN SOLDIERS A meeting of the committee recently appointed in connection with a memorial to local men who have fallen in the war was held in the Council Chamber, Inverurie, last night. Baillie Lauder was appointed convener, and several gentlemen from outlying districts were co-opted to the committee. Mr Harry Emslie, town clerk depute, was appointed secretary, and Mr T L Morrison, town chamberlain, treasurer of the fund.

It was agreed to make a house-to-house collection on behalf of the fund

December 11, 1918, p2 - Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL The Council granted permission to the committee to erect the memorial to the fallen heroes in The Square. [3]

3

April 15, 1919, p 4 – Aberdeen Daily Journal - INVEURIE AND A WAR MEMORIAL – Provost Opposes a Grant Inverurie Town Council met last night – Provost Skinner presiding.

Baillie Taylor moved that a sum of £50 be given from the Common Good towards a war memorial. He said the sum in hand was £600, and the amount required would be between £800 and £1000. Baillie Rae seconded.

Provost Skinner moved a direct amendment. He said it was illegal to take money from the Common Good unless it was to benefit the whole community. It wold take a great stretch of imagination to prove that a memorial was going to benefit the community. He said there was a division of opinion in the burgh regarding the nature of the memorial. He was quite in favour of a war memorial, but he thought that a much smaller sum than that contemplated would have been sufficient. He pointed out that at the beginning of the year there was a deficiency of £191 in the Common Good, and the year would close with a deficiency of £236. Councillor Young seconded.

Councillor Milne said he was surprised to learn that there were members of the Council who were against giving the money. He thought it was a great pity that any opposition had arisen against the proposal.

Dean of Guild McGregor spoke of the response that had been made by the community towards the fund for the memorial.

Baillie Simpson said the refusal to give the donation from the Common Good was in keeping with some of the niggardly things that had been done for those who had fought and died for them.

Appeal to the Provost Baillie Taylor appealed to the Provost to drop his amendment. He thought it would be a graceful act if he did so. Provost Skinner said he could not agree to Baillie Taylor’s suggestion. Councillor Milne asked the Provost to fall in with the majority. On a vote, the motion was carried by six to three. [3]

November 11, 1919, p 4 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – THRAWN INVERURIE – Provost Does Not Like the Two Minutes Stop Provost Skinner, Inverurie, does not think, much of today’s two minutes suspension of normal activities as a method of observing the anniversary of the armistice, and in memory of those who fell.

At a meeting of the Inverurie Town Council last night, the Provost said that he had received no intimation with regard to the King’s request to observe two minutes silence at the hour of the armistice, except that the police inspector had called upon him, under instructions from his Chief in Aberdeen, asking what arrangements were to be made. They could do nothing but request that the horn at the Locomotive

Works be blown, and have the bell rung in the Townhouse for two minutes before 11 o’clock. The public could then observe the two minutes silence if they cared. He did not think it was the sort of thing that appealed to Scottish people at all. It seemed to be a bit of a -------. A Councillor – A farce. The Provost – That’s how it strikes me. The Provost’s suggestion was agreed to.

October 12, 1920, p 6 - Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE COUNCIL’S GREETING’ MEETING The design and site of the Inverurie War Memorial, which takes the form of a kilted soldier upon a pedestal, to be erected in the Square, was approved of.

February 19, 1921, p 7 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – District News – MEMORIAL

The Inverurie Memorial Committee met in the Council chamber on Thursday evening – Major Gray presiding. The chairman intimated that the memorial was nearing completion, and that the contractor expected to have it ready for erection in June. The treasurer, Mr T L Morrison, gave a statement of the fund, which now exceeds £800, and intimated several donations from Inverurie men resident in other parts.

June 15, 1921, p 6 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL At the Town Council meeting on Monday night Treasurer Young proposed, and Dean of Guild Milne seconded, that the sum of ten guineas be granted for the preparing of the foundation for the war memorial. This was agreed to. [4]

September 19, 1921, p 3 - Aberdeen Daily Journal - INVERURIE MEMORIAL UNVEILED - Lord Kintore’s Tribute - Valour of The Gordon Highlanders

An impressive ceremonial took place at Inverurie yesterday afternoon in presence of about 8000 people, when the handsome granite monument erected in the Square to the memory of the fallen heroes of the burgh and district was unveiled by the Earl of Kintore, who paid an eloquent and touching tribute to the brave men, 164 in number, who had laid down their lives in the war.

The church service prior to the unveiling of the memorial was attended by an overflow congregation. The clergymen were the Rev James Black, the Manse; the Rev William Cruickshank UF church; the Rev T G S Presslie, Episcopal Church; and the Rev W Muir, Congregational Church.

Mr Muir preached an impressive discourse, and the praise was appropriate to the occasion.

4

The Unveiling At the conclusion of the church service, a procession was formed, headed by the ministers, and then followed the earl of Kintore, Lord Falconer, Lady Hilda Keith Falconer, Mr George Bowe, London; Provost Skinner, and the Town Councillors, and the committee including Major Gray, Convener, and Mr T L Morrison, secretary; about 200 ex-service men, and the choir, Pipers from the Depot, Castlehill, under pipe-Major McLennan, marched in the procession and played “The Flowers o’ the Forest.” Captain George Gray was in command of the ex-service men, and other officers present were Major Cameron, Captains Murray, Arbuthnot, and Laing, Lieutenants Nicol, Davidson and Duncan and Sgt-Major Gordon. Bright sunshine lent a touch of relief to a solemn and deeply impressive event in the history of the Royal Burgh.

Major Gray said they were met to unveil that memorial in affectionate remembrance of their brothers who laid down their lives in the Great War. They felt that they could never adequately express their gratitude for the sacrifice they made for them, and very cordially united in erecting that tribute to their memory as a token of appreciation of their never-to-be-forgotten services. He had the pleasure of introducing to them the Right Hon the Earl of Kintore, who had kindly honoured them by coming to unveil the memorial, and who was well known to them all for his readiness to assist in any important ceremony in Inverurie. He called on his lordship to unveil the memorial.

The Earl of Kintore then unveiled the memorial, and Major Gray read the names of the fallen, 164 in number.

Roll of Honour The following are the names of the fallen, to the number of 164:

Royal Navy – Engineers George Fullerton, Alexander Reid Simpson, and David Strachan; Petty Officer Charles McCombie, and AB Harry John McIntosh. Royal Marines – Sergt J Hendry Royal Field Artillery – Bombardier George Young, Gunners George F Lumsden, John Mearns, David H Philip, and W. F Robb; Drivers John M Aird and Robert Gammie. Royal Garrison Artillery – Corporal John Barron and Gunner Andrew G Riddell. Scottish Horse – Trooper Peter Ross. Royal Engineers – 2

nd Lieut A McL Maitland, RSM

John Watson, L-Cpl e A Brand, Pioneer Alexander T Adam, and Sapper William Bothwell. Scots Guards – Private Robert C Walker Royal Scots – Sergt John Garden, Signaller George Gall, Private George Grant. Royal Welsh Fusiliers – L-Cpl John Adam King’s Own Scottish Borderers – Privates Frank Calder and Alexander Morrison. Scottish Rifles – Privates James Bisset and George Lemmon Black Watch – Captain W Ernest Coutts, L-Cpls Barron, Gordon and John Summers, and Private James Findlay.

Highland Light Infantry – Sergt J Milne, Privates Logie W Dallas, William Ferguson, Alexander Murray, and William I Paul. Seaforth Highlanders – Signaller Alfred Calder, Privates George Davidson, George Maitland, John Milton, William H Russell, and Hector Strachan. Cameron Highlanders – 2

nd Lieut John H Mennie and

Private F S Beaton Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders – Privates Robert Currie and George Napier London Scottish – Corpl David Bell MM Army Service Corps – Corpl William Beattie and Private William C Dilworth Royal Army Medical Corps – Captain Patrick G Milne, Lieut William Charles, Sergts James C Dawson and Fred T Rogers, MM ; Privates W J Booth, James A Cooper, William Duncan, Douglas C Jackson, and John I Lumsden. Royal Air Force – Lieut Tom H Laing and Corpl James A Cruickshank Canadian Navy – AB James Aird Canadians – Corpl William Birse, Privates William Cassie, Charles Greig, John Jaffrey, Alexander McPherson, William Reid, John C Robertson, John Stewart and William Walker MM Australians – Sergts R S Geils and James A Maitland, Private Alexander C Young New Zealand Forces – Sergt Robert Maitland and Private William S Bruce South Rhodesia Column – Sergt John Thomson East Africa Pay Corps – Lieut R F Thomson Gordons – Captains Harry D t, and George Smith; 2

nd

Lieuts W A Davidson and William J Reid; Sergts Alexander Anderson, John P Cooper, Robert Davie MM, Thomas A Hendry, Peter Logan, William McIntosh, George Smith and Robert Walker MM; Corpls Alfred Burnett, W M Craigie, Joseph Lemmon, William Albert Morgan MM, and Charles Young; L-Cpls Alex Booth, Charles L Callum, George H Dallas, John Henry, James Jaffrey, Robert McConnachie, Alexander McGlashan, William R McGregor, Alexander McRobbie, William Mutch, William Ross, Thomas S T Sinclair, Pat M Strachan and G McHattie Walker; Privates Alexander Aitken, Leslie Alsop, George Anderson, John Anderson, John Bain, Adam Bothwell, W F Barnett DCM, James Cameron, John Cruden, Francis R Donald, William Albert Thow Duguid, Douglas W Duncan, John Duncan, Adam Geals, Arthur K Gillanders, William Grant, W R Gordon and George Hay, Piper George Hird, Privates Robert Henry, Colin C Ivers, James Kidd, Robert McGregor, James McLeod, Hector McIntosh, William McRae, William Mair, Alex Mearns and Peter Melvin, Piper Allan Milne, Privates Robert M T Murdoch, John Mutch, Tom Murison, Edward E O’Brien, John C Penny, Adam M Philip, Alexander Ross, Patrick Simpson, Alexander Smith, Alexander Smith, William Smith, a D Smith, Alexander Watt, Adam Wilson, Alexander Wilson and Robert Watt; L-Cpl G G Robertson. The Rev J Black offered the prayer of dedication

Lord Kintore’s Tribute The Earl of Kintore said the first of the very few words he would allow himself to speak must be one of sincere thanks for their kindness in allowing him to

5

take part in that moving occasion. From the people of Inverurie, from the Provost and Town Council of that royal and ancient burgh, from the far-distant past through the centuries down to this date, his family had received constant evidences of their interest and goodwill. In all their joys and sorrows they knew they could count on their sympathy. From that place he derived one of his titles, and he had the distinction of being one of their few honorary freemen. Yet, when ye looked back over the long line of association with them – in the old home yonder – he could not recall any privilege that he prized more highly than that extended to him that day.

He had unveiled a memorial most happily situated and representing the far-famed regiment the Gordon Highlanders. Those whom the memorial commemorated served with splendid fidelity their King, but the time at his disposal forbade him attempting to deal with the details, and when speaking of the Gordons he was referring to all the soldiers of his Majesty’s forces. Suffice to say that from the combined Gordon battalions – one of which it was his constant pride to remember that long ago for some time he commanded – speaking in round numbers, no less than 50,000 men served their King loyalty and zealously in the Great War, and of these speaking again in round figures 1000 officers and 28,000 men were killed, wounded or became casualties. With such a record they were proud of their regiment – none shall say us nay!

A Mighty War Machine That memorial had been provided by subscription, by the men and women of the Garioch. It had been dedicated to the glorious memory of the valiant in battle, to the memory of the men whose stern valour, by their own admission, caused them to be so dreaded by the foe. It was due to them that we had emerged triumphant from a struggle, forced upon us, against a mighty war machine controlled by the men of Prussia whose supreme object was world-domination, and whose lust was the lust for untrammelled power. But we had succeeded in upholding the sanctity of treatise and preserved our shores from invasion and our people from slavery. It had entailed the sad loss of many young lives; they had made the supreme sacrifice, they had died a soldier’s death – the finest death that any man could die, so that the old folks at home might be able to live in peace and honour. It was, indeed, sad to think of the loss of so many young lives and the sorrow it had brought to homes in that district and elsewhere, and as they had joined in their hymn of thanksgiving, so let them ever pray that the bereaved, as time went on, might find some consolation in the knowledge of what their loved ones achieved by their death, and that their grief might presently be swallowed up by pride in recollection of the men’s heroic deeds.

The Town Council would henceforth maintain that memorial so that the public might be reminded of the deeds of heroism they never would forget, and would tell the story of their soldier’s heroism to the generations following them; they died for us and in dying saved our country. It should be their highest

ambition and noblest aim to strive for truth and justice, liberty, and righteousness.

Custody of Town Council Major Gray then said he had much pleasure, in the name of the committee, in handing the memorial over to the custody of the Town Council, and requesting Provost Skinner on behalf of the community to accept it.

Provost Skinner said he had been authorised by the Town Council to accept the custody of the memorial as a sacred trust. They accepted responsibility for its upkeep and preservation in all time coming, and he trusted the memorial would serve as a reminder to themselves and future generations of how much they owed to the men whose names were inscribed on the memorial. They fought, suffered, and died in the cause of righteousness, and their names liveth for evermore.

The lament “Lochaber no more” was played by the pipers, and the buglers sounded the “Last Post” followed by the reveille.

Wreaths were afterwards placed at the foot of the memorial by Lord Kintore and others, and the service concluded with the National Anthem.

The moment, which is the work of Mr Arthur Taylor, Aberdeen is of Rubislaw granite, is 6 feet 10 inches in height, and on the top is the representation of a Gordon Highlander. On one of the panels is inscribed – “In proud and grateful memory of the men of Inverurie and district who gave their lives in the Great War, 1914-18. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we remember them.” The names of the fallen are inscribed on another panel, and the monument is an effective piece of work and an adornment to the Square of the Royal Burgh. [4]

September 20, 1921, p 3 – Letters to the Editor - INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL Sir, - In your description of above you state that the monument if 6 feet 10 inches high. The figure of the Highlander is 6 feet 10 inches high, and the whole monument, including figure, is 18 feet. – I am, etc.

T L MORRISON, Secretary Inverurie, Sept 19, 1921

November 15, 1921, p 3 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE COUNCIL AND WAR MEMORIAL – Treasurer Young’s Mite

A proposal to erect railings round the burgh war memorial gave rise to discussion at the meeting of the Inverurie Town Council last night – Provost Skinner presiding.

The motion to put up railings round the memorial, which is situated in the Square, was made by Treasurer Young.

6

Provost Skinner failed to see why that should come before the Council again when it was settled at the last meeting. Treasurer Young said he made no apology for bringing it up again. They had constituted a new Town Council who might see the necessity for erecting a railing. Ex-servicemen and relatives of the fallen had asked him to press the matter again with the town Council. It was obvious to anyone who went

Through the Square that the wreaths laid at the monument by relatives were blown all over the place. Let them carry their minds back to the Sunday afternoon of the unveiling ceremony. Provost Skinner said on that occasion that he had been authorised by the Town Council to accept the memorial as a sacred trust. They (the Council) accepted responsibility for its upkeep and preservation for all time coming. He (Treasurer Young) could not for the life of him understand how they were to preserve the monument as a sacred trust unless there was some kind of a railing to prevent its being damaged. He thought the expressed the opinion of 80 per cent of the inhabitants of Inverurie in advocating the erection of a railing.

In seconding the motion, Dean of Guild Milne said that the lower base had already been scratched, and very soon the memorial would get into a dilapidated state. Councillor Diack said he was in sympathy with the Treasurer’s motion, and asked if there was any arrangement with the Memorial Committee. Provost Skinner – There was no stipulation. Baillie Ballantyne said that when the committee asked the site the Council granted it unanimously. They gave a donation of £30, and provided the base of the memorial at a cost of £10 10s. As far as he understood, the committee had not collected all the money for the memorial yet. They should wait to see what the committee was to do. The Treasurer should be the last to urge such a thing, as it would have to come out of the Common Good, which had been greatly decreasing. All of them individually would no doubt put their hands into their pockets again, but their sense of public duty out to outweigh their personal feelings in this matter, and he moved as an amendment that no railings be erected. Baillie Watt seconded.

Wretched Common Good Provost Skinner said he was of the same opinion as Baillie Ballantyne because of the Common Good Fund, which was in a wretched state, and was going from bad to worse every year. What protection were railings from wind and stormy weather. There were no railings round the monuments in Union Terrace, Aberdeen, and they were not harmed, yet there were more passers-by than in Inverurie.

Baillie Ballantyne said he doubted the legality of providing a railing out of the Common Good.

Baillie Taylor said he would have thought that the Treasurer would have been the last to bring forward anything about the memorial. He had been appointed with others to the Memorial Committee, and had not

attended a single meeting. Did he collect anything for it? A Member – Or give?

Treasurer Young said it was perfectly true he had an invitation and did not attend. He believed the Provost also had an invitation, and did not attend. He (Treasurer Young) had contributed his mite to the Memorial Fund. Certain ratepayers had gone to the nomination meeting to question them on the point, but did not gain admission. On the vote being taken, he amendment was carried by 6 votes to 2. [4]

September 20, 1922, p 3 – Aberdeen Journal –– INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL – Letter Sir, I am disappointed to see that this memorial has not yet been completed. Why is there not a railing erected around it? It is now about twelve months since it was unveiled. Will the old committee not take the matter up? I will give my mite?

Yours, etc. A CITIZEN, Inverurie Sept 19 1922.

November 18, 1921, p 3 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – Letters to the Editor – INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL Sir, - Pardon me for encroaching on your space in reference to the arguments used at the Inverurie Council meeting against providing a railing for the monument at the Council’s (or ratepayers’) expense. The chief argument appeared to be that the Memorial Committee had not finished collecting money for it. It is perfectly well known to most members of the Council what is being collected now is to meet the deficit for the cost of the memorial. This monument was taken over by the Council without any condition or stipulation whatever attached to it. Therefore, its future upkeep and protection is in the sole charge of the Council. The Memorial Committee, to my way of thinking, ceases to have any further responsibility for it, or any jurisdiction concerning it – not even to the extent of erecting a railing around it – without the Town Council’s permission, though I readily admit that no objection would be raised against it. Another argument was that the Council had given the sum of £60 already and a free site, and also they did not charge the Memorial Committee for the use of the hall for their meetings, somewhere about 70. This may have been an extraordinary generous thing to do, a noble sacrifice to make of revenue, as the burgh is that much the poorer for it. Still, we must remember it was one way of helping to recompense the lads who were in Flanders, fighting in the cold, dirty trenches, while ---. Baillie Taylor, in a bitter vein, made a jibe at me for not attending the Memorial Committee meetings, and gave this as a reason why I should not have brought

7

up my motion. The tenor of his remarks seems to be that because it sprung from me (a very bad and wicked source) he would vote against it. Such conduct may seem very heroic. What is the result? Though I did not give personal attendance at the Committee meetings I did support the monument inside the Council Chamber always, believing that such a monument was the expressed desire or wish of the community in general. I am just bad enough to believe in democracy – the majority rule. I wish to say this: If I had acted on the Memorial Committee as a public-spirited man I would never have thrown up its work because I could not get things to go all my own way. I can always take a beating and come up again for another fight; and even support a proposal from any man if I believe it is a right and proper one. Why be so thin-skinned nowadays? I think Provost Skinner’s argument was very weak when he said the railing would be no protection from the wind and stormy weather. The railing was to protect the wreaths, etc, from being blown about across the square, and his reference to the Aberdeen monuments was quite wide of the mark, as the types of these monuments, I believe, are quite different. It the citizens want such a railing it is now for them to make the next move. I might say I have been offered £2 by each of two of the bereaved mothers if I undertook to start a public subscription for this object, but I feel it is the duty of the Council to provide out the Common Good Funds the cost of such a railing for the monument, which they have taken over as a sacred trust. – I am etc.

A F YOUNG, Kirkland Terrace, Inverurie November 16, 1921

September 26, 1922, p3 – Aberdeen Journal –- INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL - Letter

Sir, With your permission, may I point out to “Another Citizen” that not all the members of the Town Council are guilty for the non-erection of a railing around the memorial. When this matter came before the Council, it was supported by Dean of Guild Milne and myself. The blame, and if any shame, must be put on the right shoulders. Economy is a great thing nowadays. – Yours, etc. A F Young, 1 Kirkland Terrace, Inverurie, September 25, 1922.

October 14, 1922, p3 – Aberdeen Journal –INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL – Letter

Sir, As the custody of this memorial is now with the Town Council, and it is still in an unfinished sate, I hope the ratepayers will keep this in view when the heckling meeting comes round. Baillie Watt and Dean of Guild Milne, the retiring members, might be asked to give their views on why it has been left unfinished. The community want it finished, and should see to the returning men who will support it.

Yours etc. CITIZEN,

Inverurie October 13 1922.

November 14, 1922, p 6 - Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE MEMORIAL RAILING – Town Council’s Decision

The much-discussed question of erecting a railing around the war memorial in the Square at Inverurie was settled at a meeting of the Town Council last night, when it was agreed that the matter be considered by the Council in committee. Provost Taylor presided.

Treasurer Young moved – “That the Town Council erect a suitable railing around the war memorial.” He said in support of his motion that it was the third occasion on which the question had been brought before the notice of the Council, and he hoped it would be the last. There was considerable feeling among the inhabitants regarding the matter. The relatives and mothers of those whose names were inscribed upon the memorial had offered him handsome donations towards erecting a suitable railing. He noticed himself that even the wreaths which had been placed on the monument on Saturday were blown on to the Square already. These lads gave their lives for their country, and it was the Council’s sacred duty to protect the memorial. He suggested that a sum of money might be given from the Common Good Fund to meet the necessary expense.

Councillor Diack, in seconding, said it was high time something was done to prevent the wreaths from being scattered all over the plate. Baillie Angus thought that they should raise the money for the railing by some scheme, and not take anything from the Common Good Fund. He was certain the people of Inverurie would subscribe willingly to that object.

Consult the Sculptor Baillie Ballantyne was of opinion that the sculptor who erected the memorial should be consulted. He might not wish anything further to be erected. The sculptor would advise them as to a suitable design. They did not want to deface that beautiful memorial in any way. He thought the money could be raised by public subscription.

Dean of Guild Milne said he was quite in favour of the railing. He would not take the money out of the Common Good Fund. Councillor Buchan had no objection to erecting a railing. They should, however, see to it that the railing was suitable, and not an “eyesore”. They would get enough funds by public subscription. Councillor Rennie was in favour of erecting a railing. They would not find any difficulty in getting the getting funds. Councillor Young withdrew his suggestion regarding the Common Good Fund. It was not the question of finance, it was the question of the railing. He was quite willing to collect any subscriptions for the fund. Councillor Haywood suggested that the whole question be discussed by the Council in committee. Councillor Young agreed with the suggestion. Baillie Angus seconded. It was unanimously agreed that the matter be dealt with in committee. [5]

8

April 21, 1923, p 5 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – Letters to the Editor – INVERURIE MEMORIAL Sir, - I have been looking in vain for a move regarding the much-talked-of railing around our memorial. Our public men would seem to be more interested in their new golf course than protecting this sacred edifice or keeping their election pledges. – I am, etc.

TOWNSMAN Inverurie, March 31, 1923

May 2, 1923, p 8 – Aberdeen Press and Journal - MR T L MORRISON – Inverurie Chamberlain Honoured The final meeting of the Inverurie War Memorial Committee was held in the Council Chamber last night – Major Gray, chairman, presiding.

Mr T L Morrison, hon treasurer, submitted the balance sheet, which showed that the total amount collected was £1079 5s, and the expenditure £1079 5s, which was considered satisfactory.

Major Gray said that their labours as a committee were ended, and he thought they could congratulate themselves upon the result of their effort. The memorial was a handsome and effective one, and had been universally admired, and when the Town Council enclose it with a suitable railing and perhaps a green sward round it, it would do much to improve its general appearance. He wished to thank all who had in any way contributed to the success of the project.

Proceeding, Major Gray said they were much indebted to the hon secretary and treasurer, Mr T L Morrison, whose untiring labours during all these months they appreciated more than words could tell, and they thanked him sincerely for the amount of time and trouble he had taken in seeing the movement he had so much at heart brought to a successful termination. The members of the committee were unanimous in wishing to recognise in some matter his labour of love, and in their name he had pleasure in asking Mr Morrison to accept an enlarge photograph of himself as a mark of their appreciation of his splendid services.

The photograph, which is handsomely framed, bears the following inscription:

Presented to T L Morrison Esq JP Town Chamberlain

By the Inverurie War Memorial Committee

April 1923

Mr Morrison, in reply, thanked the committee for their handsome gift. He could assure them that when he accepted the position of secretary and treasurer he did so without the hope of fee or reward. When he was approached by the originator of the scheme, the late Baillie Lauder, to undertake the work, he felt that he wanted to do something for those who were fighting

their battles for them. They had succeeded in erecting a memorial which was worthy of their heroic dead.

On the call of Councillor Rennie, Major Gray was thanked for his services as chairman.

August 1, 1923, p 3 Aberdeen Press and Journal –Inverurie Square - Letter Sir – I note that the Council are to rail in and lay out the Square in grass at a considerable cost. Have the Council power to do so?

I am, etc. INQUIRER Inverurie July 31, 1923.

October 17, 1923, p 3 - Aberdeen Press and Journal – Inverurie Square Railing – Letter

Sir – I have followed with great interest the correspondence in your columns anent the above subject, and I quite agree with the point raised by “Ballot Box”. Let the forthcoming Town Council election decide the issue “for or against.” Possibly the matter is now foo far gone for that course, as I have seen by your advertisement columns, estimates are now asked for the railing and are to be in no later than the 17st in.

Still, I think, under the circumstances, the best possible and wisest course for the Town Council to adopt is to delay acceptance of the offers and to proceed very cautiously here, for I know that this thing is very unpopular with a very large section of the inhabitants; yes, even with some ex-public men who have weight and influence in the burgh. Although the Council may “de jure” proceed with this project (rail in the Market Square), in spite of protest, I say, would it be a wise thing to force the legal aspect of it against the wishes of the ratepayers? I think there are times when a Town Council must waive their own opinions and desires for the wishes of their constituents.

Personally, I have held out against the expenditure all along, as I knew it was not what the people wanted. I felt the Council was upon dangerous ground in proceeding with it, going much too far in the matter. The inhabitants gave the Council an indication of what they would like – namely, a small, simple railing for the memorial. If they had gone on with that this matter would have been amicably settled without any controversy or any expense to the ratepayers.

This thing does not look well for those councillors who objected to anything being contributed towards the War Memorial railings on the ground of economy and now endorse an expenditure in figures of £500. There is a rough storm coming, I fear – with breakers ahead – for those councillors who have not become “more sensible” during the past year.

Yours etc A F YOUNG Inverurie Oct 13, 1923.

9

October 23, 1923, p 4 – Aberdeen Press and Journal – INVERURIE AND A RAILING – Advice from Aberdeen

Most cities and burghs have a burning question at municipal election time, and at Inverurie the problem is the question of erecting a railing round the War Memorial in the Market Square. The original proposal was to place the railing round the memorial itself – the cost to be borne by voluntary subscription – but now the scheme has been extended, and the Town Council have approved by a majority, the erection of a railing round the Square on which the memorial stands, the cost to be borne by the rates.

This decision came in for some criticism at the nomination meeting held in the Town Hall last night, at which Provost Taylor presided. The retiring candidates are Baillie Valentine, Treasurer Young, Dean of Guild Diack, and Councillor Watt. The "Black Budget." Provost Taylor said that, after protracted consideration, the Council had approved a modified plan with regard to the war memorial railing scheme. It was now proposed to erect a railing inside the trees in the Square, to sow grass in the enclosed space, and to place a pavement round the outside the trees. The cost the railing would be £125 17s, and the pavement £77 18s Id, and the maximum rate that would be necessary would be ¼d per £1 for 30 years.

Treasurer Young, submitting the financial statement, said the accounts were not so bright and rosy as they would have liked; in fact, might describe it as their “black budget." The Common Good account, however, was improving, and they had effected a reduction of £78 4s 2d in their debt in that connection, which now stood at £741 3s. They hoped, with rigid economy, to further reduce that debt by £100 next year. The total rates for the current year were 4s 11¼d, increase of 4¼d over last year, owners having to pay 1s 9

3/8d

and-occupiers 3s 17/8d.

The following candidates were them nominated, and addressed the meeting: —Alex Burnett, Stonelea, Port-Elphinstone; Treasurer Young, Alexander Runcie, Westfield Gardens; John A. Rae, North of Scotland Bank; Dean of Guild Diack, and Baillie Valentine,

With regard to the memorial railing, Treasurer Young said he had all along been against the proposal to rail in the Square, as he thought the proposed small railing round the memorial itself was quite sufficient. The other scheme was too costly, and the majority, of the ratepayers wanted a small railing. (Applause.) With regard to the question of electric light, they would have observed that the current had not come yet, and there must be something wrong with the sparking plug. (Laughter.)

Dean of Guild Diack said the big railing round the Square would enhance the amenity of the town, and it was a pity there had been so much discussion over such a solemn matter. (Applause.) Baillie Valentine said, had twice voted against the smaller scheme, because he thought it would detract from the beauty of

the memorial. He had been the prime mover calling the services of Dr Kelly, Aberdeen, to advise them on the matter, as he did not think the Council was competent to judge. Dr Kelly had advised them to nothing rather than proceed with the small scheme, and that the big scheme would be a vast improvement. He (Baillie Valentine) had also had a talk with Mr J M Aitken, ARSA, Aberdeen, who also stated that the big scheme would prove a great amenity and asset to the burgh. For that reason had been converted to it, although at first he thought was too costly. He estimated that the rate would only one-fifth of a penny for 20 years, or 2d per annum a £10 rental.

No Use for a Council? On questions being invited, Mr A Grant asked Baillie Valentine why Dr Kelly had been called in without the consent of the ratepayers. Baillie Valentine—Because he is an expert. Mr Grant —But you represent the ratepayers. Baillie Valentine—Yes, but you don't want to have a referendum on every question that comes before the Council. If you do, what is the use of having Council at all? (Applause.) Ex-Dean of Guild Milne —It was the flowery nature of Dr Kelly's plan that took your fancy. (Loud laughter.) Baillie Valentine said that if he wanted legal advice he would go to lawyer, and if he desired advice anything artistic or architectural he would go to those who knew about these matters. (Applause.) Mr John Mutch — Is the big railing protect our memorial? Baillie Valentine—No, beautify it. Surely you don't think anyone would damage it. (Applause.)

December 11, 1923, p 8 – Aberdeen Press & Journal – INVERURIE’S RAILING PROBLEM – Baillie Young on Warpath – Advised to drop election heroics

Lively passages occurred at the meeting of the Inverurie Town Council last night – Provost Taylor presiding – when Baillie Young moved that the Council rescind its motion and cancel the orders made regarding the erection of the railing round the Square, and proceed with a railing for the War Memorial alone. Baillie Young said that although the motion was in his name, it was really the ratepayers’ motion. Prior to the municipal election, at which he was a candidate, he visited most of the ratepayers and most of the voters in the burgh, and they asked him, in the event of his being returned, to do what he could to get the motion rescinded, and stop the erection of the railing round the Square. As far as he could gauge the feeling of the people – and he thought he was a good judge – he found that 90 per cent of the inhabitants of Inverurie objected to the railing going round the Square. He was almost certain that if a plebiscite were taken they would find his analysis to be pretty nearly correct. He tabled a motion at the special meeting of the council, when they were considering the offers, that they defer acceptance of the offers until the nomination meeting. The whole of the inhabitants were against the scheme, but were practically unanimous that a small railing should be erected round the monument. If the Town

10

Council insisted on going ahead with the scheme there would be trouble. It was the chief plank in his election programme, and that was the reason why he got such a magnificent vote of 1078. It was this railing that threw Baillie Valentine out of the Town Council. At the heckling meeting, the only regret there seemed to be amongst some of the people was that the Provost was not seeking re-election instead of the Treasurer, because he would have got the same push as Baillie Valentine. Provost Taylor – very comforting. Electors’ Determination Continuing, Baillie Young said he did not put it as a threat, but he knew that they were determined that all supporters of the scheme be cleared away from the council table. The ratepayers would contribute willingly and generously to a small railing round the monument. They knew well a petition was likely to come before the Sheriff, which would be contested in Aberdeen. It rested with them whether they were to fight the ratepayers with their own money. They should fight them with their money as individuals, but not as a corporate body. Councillor Runcie seconded. Provost Taylor moved the previous question, and gave a history of the scheme from October, 1921 when Baillie Young proposed that a railing should be erected round the monument. When they decided in June to proceed with the cheaper scheme for a triangular railing round the trees in The Square, with an adamant pavement, part of the work to be done by the burgh workmen, they were unanimous, and there was not a single dissenting voice. Baillie Young threatened them with legal difficulties, and he talked about a petition and about 90 per cent of the inhabitants being against the scheme. How did he know? They had 2000 odd voters. Did he say he knew 90 per cent of them? It was a piece of presumption to say that 90 per cent were against the scheme. If they agreed to a thing and then a member wanted to overturn the decision of the Council at the next meeting, it seemed to him that the business of the community would never go on at all. He thought it absurd, and he was surprised at Baillie Young, a sensible man who knew business well, after agreeing in June to the scheme, to come forward with another motion. Drop the Heroics Councillor Rennie seconded, and said the memorial had been long enough in the gutter, and now that the election was past they might drop the heroics and go on with the business of the Council. Baillie Young said he did not object at the June meeting because he was anxious to get unanimity. He had disapproved of the big railing all along, and said so before Dr Kelly at that meeting. On the vote being taken, Provost Taylor’s amendment was carried by 5 votes to 3. A letter was read from Mr John Munro, advocate, 9 Crown Street, Aberdeen, asking for information regarding the railing, and the authority on which the

Council were acting, so that he could advise his clients – Baillie Young and other ratepayers. Mr John Kellas, town clerk, said he had given him the required information. [5]

January 30, 1924, p 3 – Aberdeen Press & Journal – Letters to the Editor – RAILING IN SQUARE AT INVERURIE

Sir, - May I crave your indulgence in again bringing this matter before the ratepayers. A petition was largely signed by ratepayers, protesting against the erection of a railing round a certain area in the Square, on the plea of economy. Baillie Young is now busy trying to get an interdict to stop the work, and questions the Town Council’s authority. He has likewise collected, or been promised, several hundreds of pounds to fight the cause. Do the ratepayers realise what this is going to cost them? The railing is made, and will have to be paid. The Square is being laid out, and the work will have to be paid. Baillie Young threatens to take the matter to the Court of Session, and the Town Council, who represent the ratepayers, will have to defend their actions. Should Baillie Young win, they will have his expenses as well as their own to pay. They will get no railing, but have to pay for it.

If Baillie Young is sincere in his cry for a reduction in the rates, why not get this sum eh has collected and pay for the railing:- Yours, etc

EX-SERVICE Inverurie, Jan 29, 1924

January 31, 1924, p 5 – Aberdeen Press & Journal – Letters to the Editor - RAILING IN SQUARE AT INVERURIE

Sir – “Ex-Service Man’s” letter is too late in appearing. If it had come about two years ago it might have been considered, and done some good. Regarding his PS. As my name has been connected (locally) with having some responsibility in the matter of a flock of sheep resting in the square yesterday, when wreaths were damaged by the sheep on the memorial, I wish to say that I had no responsibility of any kind in this matter. I was quite ignorant and innocent of any arrangements being made for the sheep to be put on the Square. But I wish to state that it is not the first time sheep resting there have nibbled at the wreaths. I brought the Council’s notice to this, and with other happenings, that was why I advocated and supported a small railing more than two years ago of the memorial. Yours etc, A. F. Young Inverurie Jan 30, 1924.

***** Sir – I wonder if those misguided persons responsible for the wanton desecration of the Inverurie War Memorial are to-day feeling proud of their

11

achievement. What of the feelings of those whose dear ones, names are inscribed on the monument, and whose sacred wreaths have been ruthlessly destroyed? How do the ex-Service Men regard this insult to their former comrades? Surely they are the people who matter.

Yours, etc. 6th GORDON

Inverurie Jan 30, 1924.

February 2, 1924, p 4 - Aberdeen Press & Journal – INVERURIE SQUARE RAILING – Ratepayers Sue Council – Interdict Sought in Sheriff Court

Considerable feeling has existed in Inverurie for some time over the decision of the Town Council to erect a railing round the Square in front of the Town Hall instead of, as was first suggested, round the war memorial alone. It has been known that a number of people in the burgh have been going round the ratepayers obtaining signatures to a petition protesting against the decision of the Council, and futile efforts were made to have the decision reversed. The controversy was taken a step further yesterday, when interdict was sought in Aberdeen Sheriff Court by several ratepayers. They were William Milne, Ury place, Inverurie; Alfred F Young, 1 Kirkland Terrace, Inverurie; William Bennet, Glenburnie, Inverurie; and William Grant, Margaret Cottage, Inverurie. The pursuers asked the court to declare that the triangular piece of ground known as the Market Square, Inverurie, in front of the Town House, is the common property of the inhabitants; that the town Council are not entitled to enclose that piece of ground or obstruct or occupy it in any way that will defeat or impede the pursuer’s rights; and to interdict the defenders accordingly, meantime granting interim interdict for the taking down of the railing and the removal of all materials used in its construction. Mr John Munro, advocate, Aberdeen, represented the pursuers, and Mr George Duncan, advocate, Aberdeen, appeared for the defenders. A Public Place In their condescendence the pursuers averred that the piece of ground was vested in the Magistrates in perpetuity for the use and enjoyment of the inhabitants. It had from time immemorial been open to the inhabitants for holding public meetings, fairs and markets, and for recreation and public purposes generally, and the Magistrates had no right to enclose it so as to prevent access to the inhabitants of the burgh. Mr Munro submitted that he was entitled to interim interdict on his averments on the authority of a case in the House of Lords. Sheriff Laing – Why do the Council want to enclose the ground? Mr Munro – I don’t know. Mr Duncan – He knows perfectly well, as one of his clients was a party to it originally.

Mr Munro said he had heard that the original proposal was that a railing should be placed round the war memorial in the Square, and to that everyone was agreeable. Later, however, the proposal to enclose the whole Square with a railing was brought up, and notwithstanding a strong protest by 90 per cent of the inhabitants, the Council proceeded with the work of erection. He understood that the railing was partially up, and that they were going on with it every day.

Mr Duncan said he was informed that no part of the railing was yet erected. Mr Munro – If that is so, there will be all the less difficulty in preventing the railing being raised after the question has been decided. (Laughter).

A Case in Point Mr Munro then cited a case – Graham against the Magistrates of Kirkcaldy – which had been before the House of Lords. In that case the Town Council of Kirkcaldy proposed to erect municipal stables on a piece of ground which had been part of the common property of the inhabitants, and interdict had been upheld. Mr Duncan asked that the application be refused. He referred to what he called the extraordinary terms of the crave, which were such as he had never seen in court. How his lordship could “interdict the defenders accordingly” passed his comprehension, because any decree of interdict must be drawn up in very precise terms. He assured the Sheriff that no portion of the railing had actually been erected, although the ground had been prepared.

The Sheriff asked if Mr Duncan would be prepared to give an undertaking not to erect the railing before lodging his defences. It would simplify matters greatly if the hearing took place after the defences were in.

Town Council’s Case After a consultation with Provost Taylor, Inverurie, Mr Duncan said his clients preferred that the matter should be disposed of at that sitting of the court. Sheriff Laing – I will hear you, but you must not assume that I shall dispose of the case at this stage. If I don’t get the undertaking I may be tempted to grant interim interdict until the defences are lodged. Mr Duncan then asked if his lordship had the terms of the Burgh Police Act in view in making that statement, and Sheriff Laing admitted that he had not, but did not think it was too much to ask that erection should be delayed. Mr Duncan thought he could satisfy the court as to the powers of the Magistrates on the matter. The only authority which Mr Munro had brought up did not enter into account, as it took place prior to the passing of the Burgh Police act, which gave the Magistrates certain statutory powers. Reviewing the circumstances of the dispute, Mr Duncan said that in 1918 the war memorial was erected inside the triangular piece of ground known as the Square, which was at present surrounded by trees. Mr Munro contended that that piece of ground was a public thoroughfare, where the public might walk and congregate. The court must, however, keep in view the exact powers of the Magistrates in regard to such

12

spaces, and in that connection section 14 of the Burgh Police Act 1908 conferred on the Magistrates the powers “to lay out any street,” and under section 4 of the 1892 Act, the word street included square. A Scandal and Disgrace What the Magistrates proposed to do was not to shut out the public from their place, but to lay out the ground as they had power to do. It was at present enclosed by lines of trees, and there was, therefore, no passage for wheeled vehicles. It was a space where the public might walk and congregate, and there was no proposal to prevent anything of the kind. The ground was to be suitably laid out to form a proper setting for the war memorial, to which enclosure the public would have free access just as before. It would prevent the unseemly things that had been going on in that burgh during the last few days. Sheriff Laing – What do you mean by unseemly things? Mr Duncan said that he was referring to the fact that flocks of sheep had been driven unnecessarily up to the war memorial and allowed to eat the wreaths laid down at the foot of it. Such behaviour was a scandal and a disgrace in any respectable community. Sheriff Laing – Who did it? Mr Duncan – My information is that it was done by three of the pursuers who are in court at the present moment. Mr Munro – I cannot allow that to pass unchallenged. My clients have already written a letter denying any share in the incidents. In conclusion, Mr Duncan said that the matter had not been sprung on the inhabitants. The scheme was approved of by the Town Council in June last with the advice of Dr Kelly, Aberdeen. At the Council meeting, at which the resolution was passed, Mr Young, one of the pursuers, was present. Proceeding to read from the minute of the meeting, Mr Duncan said that the Council unanimously approved of the scheme. Sheriff Laing interrupted at this point, stating that that minute was not before him. All he knew about the case in a documentary sense was contained in the initial writ of the pursuers, which prima facie would establish a case for interim interdict. A Guarantee After some discussion, Mr Duncan agreed to lodge defences within six days, and Sheriff Laing fixed the hearing for Saturday, 9

th inst.

Mr Duncan, However, wold give no guarantee of stopping the work of erection, but said he did not think the ground would be ready in time for the railing to be put up. He guaranteed, however, that the railing would not be erected before Saturday. Sheriff Laing – If I refuse interdict, do you contemplate erecting it on the Sunday? (Laughter). Mr Duncan – I don’t think they will go that length in Inverurie. Mr Munro (doubtfully) – I don’t know. (Renewed laughter).

February 11, 1924, 2 – Aberdeen Press & Journal – INVERURIE RAILING INTERDICT – Baillie Young’s Position Further debate in the action by the Inverurie ratepayers to interdict the Inverurie Town Council from erecting a railing enclosing the burgh square and war memorial was heard in the Aberdeen Sheriff Court before Sheriff Laing on Saturday. The Sheriff will give his decision today. He expressed the hope that nothing would be done in the meantime. The ratepayers who are seeking the interdict are Wm Milne, Ury Place, Inverurie; Alfred F young, 1 Kirkland Terrace, Inverurie; William Bennet, Glenburnie, Inverurie; and William Grant, Margaret Cottage, Inverurie. The pursuers asked the court to declare that the triangular piece of ground known as the Market Square, Inverurie, in front of the Town House, is the common property of the inhabitants; that the Town Council are not entitled to enclose that piece of ground or obstruct or impede the pursuers’ rights; and to interdict the defenders accordingly, meantime granting interim interdict for the taking down of the railing and the removal of all materials used in its construction. Mr John Munro, advocate, Aberdeen represented the pursuers, and Mr George Duncan, advocate, Aberdeen, appeared for the defenders. Mr Duncan said that defences had been lodged, and it was now simply on the question of interim interdict. He claimed that the crave be refused as the works complained of had been resolved on by the defenders, the tenders accepted, and the work largely carried out. He went on to trace the history of the movement from 1918, when the secretary of the War Memorial Committee asked the Council to take over the custody of the memorial. Reading the Council minutes he showed that Baillie Young, one of the pursuers, was the first to move that a railing be put round the monument. On the first occasion he got no seconder, and, on the second, his motion was defeated. The Sheriff Surprised On his bringing it up a third time, the Council discussed it in committee, and Baillie Young moved that they instruct the architect to draw up alternative plans for a railing round the monument, and one round the trees in the square as a kerb. Sheriff Laing – This is one of the pursuers? Mr Duncan – The leading pursuer. Sheriff Laing – It is extraordinary. Continuing, Mr Duncan said that Dr Kelly’s services were enlisted, and he strongly recommended enclosing of the triangle. Baillie Young moved in April last that they do not proceed with the larger scheme, but was defeated. In June the decision was unanimous. Mr Duncan quoted several cases of a similar nature from the records, and said that on these authorities that was not a case in which interim interdict could be granted. The law clearly was that where works have been resolved on, carried out within the knowledge of

13

the pursuers, when they have allowed expense to be incurred when it could have been perfectly possible for them to bring their interdict earlier and stop the proceedings, the court would not intervene in granting interim interdict. There was no question as to what the law on that point was. The claim should have been made in October, when the contracts were accepted. The Town Council had exercised their powers under the Burgh Police Act, 1903, in a proper and orderly way. These resolutions were come to at public meetings, and everybody in Inverurie knew everything about it. They had all seen the work going on. They had plenty of time to stop it before the expenditure began. Sheriff Laing – I suppose Baillie Young is entitled to change his mind. Even distinguished politicians do. Not Baillie Young Alone Mr Munro said he did not see that any advantage could be gained by refusing interim interdict, because if the erection of the railing was illegal, the pursuers would be entitled to have it taken down. This was not a case of Baillie Young alone objecting. Any citizen was entitled to object, and there were four pursuers in this case. It was not the case that the work had been commenced as the result of a unanimous resolution. At the Town Council meeting in October, according to the minute, the Provost moved that tenders for the railing and the paving be accepted. Treasurer Young moved as an amendment that nothing further be done in the matter until after the municipal election. Councillor Watt seconded, but the motion was carried by 7 votes to 2.

All this, however, was beside the point. He held that, according to law, the Town Council had no right to exclude the public from a piece of public property by erecting a railing round it. The Sheriff said that, according to the information put forward by the defenders, the erection of this railing did not mean exclusion. Case to be Fought Out Mr Munro said it was practically exclusion. In the present condition of the ground there was room for free access from one side to the other, both for pedestrians and vehicles. When they held markets, the place was congested as it was. The case, he said, was going to be fought out, and what the pursuers asked at the present stage was that the court should step in and prevent further expenditure. He averred that a ratepayer was entitled to have the work stopped at this stage. Replying to a question by the Sheriff, Mr Munro said that what Treasurer Young was the first to propose was that a railing should be erected round the War Memorial only. Mr Duncan, answering the Sheriff, said that there was no chance of the defenders voluntarily postponing further work in the matter until the case was decided, because they had already accepted the tenders.

The Sheriff – I suppose they are hopeful that when the erection is complete, the place will look so charming that all opposition will be withdrawn. (Laughter) The Sheriff said he would issue his judgement on Monday.

February 20, 1924, p 6 – Aberdeen Press and Journal – INVERURIE RAILING CASE – No Interim Interdict – SHERIFF’S HINT TO PURSUERS

Sheriff Laing has issued his interlocutor in the Inverurie Square railing case in which four ratepayers sought interim interdict against the Inverurie Town Council in respect of the proposed erection of a railing round the Square in front of the Town Hall instead of, as was first suggested, round the war memorial alone. The pursuers asked the court to declare that the triangular piece of ground known as the Market Square, Inverurie, in front of the Town House, was the common property of the inhabitants, and that the Town Council were not entitled to enclose it, or obstruct, or occupy it, in any way that would defeat or impede the pursuers’ rights.

Too Long a Delay

Sheriff Laing has refused to grant interim interdict, and has appointed the case to be sent to the adjustment roll. In a note attached the Sheriff says:- As it may be desired to take an appeal at this stage, I shall briefly state the grounds upon which I have reached that conclusion. The defenders, as the Town Council of the Royal Burgh of Inverurie, possess, in virtue of the Burgh Police (Scotland) Acts, wide powers over the streets which for administrative purposes are vested in them. I refer to sections 128 and 129 of the Burgh Police (Scotland) Act, 1892, which give them power to raise, lower, alter and form streets in such manner as they may think fit, and to section 14 of the Burgh Police (Scotland) Act, 1903, which, in conjunction with Section 4 (31) of the foregoing Act of 1892, gives them power to lay out the centre portion of any street or square in shrubbery or pleasure ground, provided, of course, that sufficient space is left open at each side for carriageway and pavements. As the Market Place or Square would appear to be part of the streets or squares vested in the defenders for the purposes referred to, I think that at this stage, I must assume that in carrying out the contemplated scheme, they are not acting beyond their statutory powers. I, of course, express no opinion upon the question whether, on the assumption that the Market Place or Square “has from time immemorial been open to the inhabitants for holding public meetings, fairs and markets, and for recreation and public purposes generally.” The statutory powers which the defenders enjoy would justify their carrying out the proposed scheme, which the pursuer’s allege would change the character of the Square, but which the defenders maintain would in no way interfere with the uses referred to.

14

As the Town Council minutes show, the proposal to carry out the proposed scheme has been before the community since December, 1922, and so far as the documents in process indicate, the final resolution reached on 18th October last to proceed with the scheme does not appear to have met with any public manifestation of disapproval or opposition until the present proceedings were initiated on 30th January last. Indeed, two of the pursuers would seem at one stage to have been not unfavourable to the carrying out of the scheme. At the Town Council meeting of 18th October, 1923, offers for the construction and laying down of the adamant paving and the making and erecting of the railing were accepted, and prior to the commencement of these proceedings the concluded contracts were carried out. As stated in the defences, expenditure to the amount of £400 has been incurred, and the contractors are now ready to lay down the paving and erect the railing, the ground for which has already been prepared. The fact that all this was publicly carried out without any opposition being raised is an element unfavourable to the granting of the interim interdict. “At Own Risk” It is stated that the pursuers ask for “interim interdict only against the defenders enclosing the piece of ground in question with an iron railing as proposed.” As I assume that on this footing, the defenders will – whether interim interdict as restricted is or is not granted – proceed with the completion of their scheme, it seems to me that, having regard to the considerations referred to, the most expedient course in the interest of the community is to allow the scheme as a whole to be completed. As a suitable setting for the war memorial approved of by so competent a critic as Dr Kelly, its appearance as an artistic whole may possibly disarm public criticism. I desire to add two observations. The defenders must of course keep in view that my refusal to grant interim interdict must not be regarded as having any bearing upon the ultimate decision of the case, and in proceeding with the completion of the scheme they might bear in mind that “the rule of the law of Scotland is pendente lite nihil innovandum; and whatever party chooses to do after the matter is litigious, he does at his own risk.” My further observation is this: It is unfortunate that this public controversy should have arisen in connection with the natural desire to carry out a scheme designed to enrich – by means of appropriate and tasteful surroundings – the impressiveness of the war memorial. Accordingly I venture to suggest to the pursuers whether, having regard to the whole circumstances, reconsideration of their present attitude might not be to the interest and advantage of the community and in consonance with public sentiment. Agent for pursuers – Mr John Munro, advocate; for defenders – Mr George Duncan, advocate (for Mr John Kellas, town clerk, Inverurie).

March 1, 1924, p 4 – Aberdeen Press and Journal – INVERURIE RAILING DISPUTE – Interdict Action Dropped The action raised by certain ratepayers of the burgh to interdict the Inverurie Town Council from erecting a railing enclosing the burgh square and the memorial which came before the Aberdeen Sheriff Court recently, has been abandoned. The pursuers have lodged a minute with the sheriff clerk abandoning the action and agreeing to pay expenses. The ratepayers who were seeking the interdict were William Milne, Ury Place, Inverurie, Alfred F Young, 1 Kirkland Terrace, Inverurie, William Bennet, Glenburnie, Inverurie and William Grant, Margaret Cottage, Inverurie. [5]

15

THE ARTIST – Mr James Philip

September 12, 1941, p 3 – Aberdeen Press and Journal – ARTIST IN GRANITE

It was Mr James Philip, 2 Fraser Street, Aberdeen, who cut in granite the statute of King Edward which stands at the corner of Union Terrace. He has many other pieces of beautiful sculpture work in this medium to his credit.

Mrs Philip and he today celebrate their golden wedding. For fifty years Mr Philip was a granite cutter with Mr Arthur Taylor, granite merchant, Jute Street, Aberdeen. Besides the statue of King Edward VII, Mr Philip cut the lion at the War Memorial and the statute of the soldier which forms part of the Inverurie War Memorial. Mr Philip is particularly proud of the Inverurie statue, which is an exceptionally fine bit of cutting. Mr Philip was also responsible for cutting the Titanic memorial at Liverpool.

Mr and Mrs Philip were married at Bucksburn. A native of Woodside, but brought up in Bucksburn. Mr Philip is seventy-one years of age. Mrs Philip, who is seventy, belongs to Belhelvie.

September 14, 1951 p 8 – Evening Express – ON EVE OF DIAMOND WEDDING – Aberdeen Man’s Skill as Granite Cutter

Mr James Philip – one of the most renowned of Aberdeen’s granite cutters, whose statues throughout the country will perpetuate his name in the trade – and his wife, will celebrate their diamond wedding tomorrow. As Mrs Philip has been in poor health for some they, they will celebrate the occasion quietly at a tea party which a few friends and relations will attend at 92 Provost Rust Drive, Northfield, where they are now living with their youngest son. Mr and Mrs Philip were married in Bucksburn on September 12, 1891. At that time Mr Philip was twenty-two and had been yielding a mall and puncheon cutting granite for five years in the yard of Mr Arthur Taylor in Jute Street, Aberdeen. His bride, a Belhelvie girl, was twenty on her wedding day. Proved His Skill During his first year at work Mr Philip had to walk the four miles from Bucksburn to Jute Street, but when the suburban train service was inaugurated in 1887 he travelled by it for 3/- per month. Soon after his marriage he began to prove his skill as a granite cutter. Many pieces of his early work are to be found in North-east cemeteries.

It was his statute of King Edward VII, which stands at the corner of Union Terrace and Union Street – one of Aberdeen’s landmarks, which brought wide recognition of his talent. He worked for fourteen months on this statue.

Mr Philip, however, believes that the best piece he has done was the Inverurie War Memorial. Such was his renown that he was lent out by his firm to sculptors all over Britain – and spent several months carving the famous Titanic memorial erected at Liverpool thirty years ago. Mr Philip still talks with most pride, however, of the granite work he did in the national memorial to Nurse Edith Cavell in Cornwall. Now and then he takes a walk to see the lions on the Aberdeen War Memorial or those in Duthie Park and Hazlehead which he made. He retired in 1936. Mr and Mrs Philip had a family of three sons and one daughter – of whom two sons survive.

THE MODELS

September 17, 1951, p 3 - Evening Express – Bonaccord Gossip

What the “Evening Express” mentioned the other day about the notable granite statues cut by that skilled Aberdeen craftsman, Mr James Philip, recalls that Inverurie’s war memorial, one of his masterpieces, had a city policeman for its model. The imposing figure of the kilted Highlander in fighting kit was designed from photographs specially posed for by Constable David Ross, Annfield Terrace, who retired from Aberdeen City Police some years ago.

October 1, 1951, p 3 – Evening Express – Bonaccord Gossip

Two Models Since I wrote the other week about the Inverurie War Memorial and Mr David Ross, former Aberdeen policeman, whose photographs served as a preliminary model for the state, I have learned that another Aberdeen man shares with him the honour of being a model for the memorial. He was the late Mr David Pickard, a veteran of the Gordon Highlanders. Mr Pickard posed for Mr Fred George, the sculptor

Mr George points out, however, that the figure on the memorial is in no sense a portrait of either Mr Ross or Mr Pickard.

16

CHURCH MEMORIALS

INVERURIE UNITED FREE CHURCH (Now West Church) December 30, 1920, p 6 - Aberdeen Daily Journal - Unveiling and Dedication Ceremony

The memorial tablet erected in the vestibule of the Inverurie UF Church in memory of the man connected with the congregation who gave their lives in the War was unveiled yesterday at the morning service. The memorial takes the form of a tablet in cast brown, architectural in design, the character of which is Celtic. The centre panel is devoted to the inscription and the names. Above the inscription in the semi-circular head of the tablet, is the Celtic Cross. The service was conducted by the Rev William Cruickshank, MA who based his address on the words, “They loved not their lives unto the death.” He said they were met to commemorate the members of that church who gave their lives in the war. It would argue the basest ingratitude if they did not erect some permanent memorial of their sacrifice, acknowledging what they owe to them and seeking to perpetuate their memory. There was something inevitably sad about the unveiling of a memorial. A memorial was an attempt to commemorate those who had died. Doubly sad was it when the memorial was erected to those who, glorious as was their end, were taken from them in the full noontide of their strength, and whose sun went down while it was yet day. But there was another side which made their hearts glow with pride when they think what these men did. They died for their country, truth and honour, for the cause of good faith and ordered liberty. They died that never again should the wholesale crime of war devastate and lay waste the

earth. If they were to keep faith with their dead they must put forth every effort to end war. The League of Nations ought to command their whole-hearted support.

The tablet was unveiled by Captain Kellas. The names were then read, the Last Post was sounded, and the dedication prayer was offered. Following this the Dead March in “Saul” was played. The service of praise was in harmony with the occasion.

The memorial tablet is of chaste design, and bears the following inscription: “In memory of the men of this church who gave their lives in the Great War, 1914-1919” –

Alexander T Adam Fraser Beaton William J Booth Adam Bothwell William Bothwell Alfred Burnett James Cooper William Dilworth Douglas Duncan William Duncan Thomas A Hendry

Harry D Laing Thomas H Laing George F Lumsden John I Lumsden Alex McL Maitland Robert Maitland Robert McConnachie Robert McGregor William R McGregor Wm J Reid John Robertson

William A Ross Patrick Simpson Thomas S T Sinclair Robert Skinner *

i

Alexander Smith Hector Strachan Alexander G Young Charles Young George G Young

“Their name liveth for evermore”

17

ST ANDREW’S PARISH CHURCH

October 25, 1921, p 6 - Aberdeen Daily Journal INVERURIE HEROES – Parish Church Memorial Unveiled – Professor Baird’s Tribute A memorial service and dedication and consecration of a communion table to the memory of the members of the congregation who fell in the war was held in the Parish Church, Inverurie, on Sunday evening. There was a large congregation, and those who took part in the service were the Rev Professor Baird, Aberdeen University; the Rev James Black, and the Rev M J McPherson, Bourtie. Professor Baird, in the course of an eloquent sermon, said the communion table erected in the church would not only enable the people to

remember the death of Christ on the Cross of Calvary, but it would be a reminder to those who come after us, who know of the great war only as an event in history, to keep ever green the memory of our glorious dead, who made the supreme sacrifice that we might live. The communion table bears the following inscriptions: “To the Glory of God and in loving and grateful remembrance of the men connected with Inverurie Parish Church, who gave their lives in the Great War, 1914-1919. Nee Tamen Consumebatur. Their Names Liveth for Evermore.”

Names of the Fallen John Adam James Aird John M Aird Alex Aitken Alex Anderson John Bain Wm F Barnett John Barron Wm Beattie David Bell Wm Birse William Grant Charles Greig Alexander Grubb * George Hay George Hird Douglas C Jackson James Jaffrey John Jaffrey John Joss * James Kidd James Leith * George Lemmon Joseph Lemmon Peter Logan Charles McCombie James McLeod John McKillops * Alexander McPherson William McRae Alexander McRobbie William Machray* William Mair George Maitland James A Maitland Alexander Mearns

John Mearns Peter G Melvin Allan Milne Pat G Milne John Milton W Albert Morgan Alexander Morrison Chas D Morrison * Alexander Murray John Mutch George Napier Edward E O’Brien James Bisset William S Bruce Alfred Calder Charles L Callum James Cameron William Cassie William Charles John P Cooper W Ernest Coutts Alexander L Cowie * W M Craigie John Cruden James A Cruickshank Robert Currie George H Dallas Logie W Dallas Robert Davie W Adrian Davidson James C Dawson Francis R Donald John Duncan Alexander Faskin James Findlay Alexander Fowlie

George Fullerton George Gall Robert Gammie Charles Gault Adam Geals Barron Gordon W R Gordon Edward Grant * George Grant William P Paul David B Pearson * John C Penny Adam M Philip David H Philip Alexander Prosser William Reid William Fred Robb John Robertson W G R Robertson * John Roger Fred T Rogers William Ross William H Russell John Sim * Alexander R Simpson Alexander Smith Alexander D Smith Alexander Spence * Alexander Stuart * Pat M Strachan John Thomson R F Thomson Adam Wilson Alexander Wilson Robert C Walker William Walker

The choir rendered the anthem “For all those,” the congregation remained standing.

18

Obligation to the Dead Professor Baird, in his dedicatory address, said that although the present generation did not need any material reminder of the greatness of heroism and sacrifice of the fallen, they wanted to make sure that their children would keep ever before them the memory of the sacrifices made in the terrible years of war. It was their most sacred obligation to the memory of the dead that they should make sure that the great war would be the war that would end all wars, and make such appalling sacrifices no longer called for. Yet, they already heard people speaking glibly about another war; they heard more and more of class bitterness and class antagonisms, and every now and then there rose the raucous cry of the blood thirsty revolutionary who would overthrow all things. To achieve the abolition of war would be the most worthy memorial they could erect in honour of their dead.

Very appropriately, their memorial was a Communion table, which must ever be to them a perpetual sign of their belief in the resurrection of those who had died. In years to come, when they received from that table the bread, which was the body of Christ broken for them, they would be reminded of the bodies of the dead broken for their sakes, and as they received the wine, the symbol of Christ’s blood, they would be reminded that their sons, by their cross of sacrifice, had won for them another victory. Death could not divide them for the love of their dead sons. At the close the “Dead March” was played by Mr J A Freeman, organist. The Communion table, which is the work of Messrs Brown and Son, Union Street, Aberdeen, is of finely carved oak, bearing on brass plates on the front panels the inscription and names of the fallen.

.

19

ST MARY’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

June 21, 1920, p 6 - Aberdeen Daily Journal – DEDICATION OF MEMORIAL TABLET – SERVICE AT INVERURIE A dedication service in connection with the war memorial tablet erected last week in St Mary’s Chapel, Inverurie, to the memory of the nine members of the congregation who gave their lives in the war was held by the rector, the Rev T G S Presly, in St Mary’s Church, yesterday forenoon. The opening hymn, “O God our help in ages past,” was sun, and the form of service was the usual one followed on such occasions, and was concluded by the singing of the hymn, “For all the saints who from their labours rest.”

The tablet is of Kemnay granite, surmounted by a cross and palm trees, bearing the following inscription – “To the grateful memory of the members of this congregation who fell in the war, 1914-16 –

William Ferguson William McIntosh Robert Henry Harry John McIntosh John Mitchell Henry Hector George McIntosh Colin Campbell Ivers George Grant Robertson

George Smith.

Their name liveth for evermore.”

20

OTHER MEMORIALS

ABERDEENSHIRE CONSTABULARY

In honoured memory of the following members of the ABERDEENSHIRE CONSTABULARY who died for

King and Country during the Great War 1914-1919

Sgt A L Cowie – 6th Gordons +

ii

Sgt D B Pearson – 4th Gordons + L/Cpl J Dingwall – Scottish Horse L/Cpl G Gray – Scottish Horse Tpr W Alexander – Scottish Horse

Bomdr G M Shepherd – RFA

“Their name liveth for evermore”

ANCIENT ORDER OF FORESTERS

February 17, 1921, p 7 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – INVERURIE MEMORIAL UNVEILED

A special meeting of Court Keith-hall (No 9199) of Ancient Order of Foresters was held in the Town Hall, Inverurie, last night – Hon Bro ex Baillie Low presiding. The roll of honour of the members who made the supreme sacrifice in the war, was unveiled by Hon Bro the Rev James Black, and dedicated by Hon Bro the Rev William Cruickshank. The roll contained the names of 17 brethren. The ceremony, which was most impressive, was attended by a large company of relatives of the fallen.

INVERURIE GARDENERS’ (Lilac Lodge of Ancient Free Gardeners. Lodge 195) September 24, 1920, p 6 - Aberdeen Daily Journal -– Unveiled and Dedicated

The members of the LilacLodge (BOFG) met in the Town Hall, Inverurie, yesterday, when a roll of honour, which included the names of the members of the lodge who gave their lives in the war, was unveiled. WM Bro James Cooper presided, and he was accompaned by DWM Bro Britcher, Aberdeen and Bro Meldrum, Aberdeen who represented the District Executive. Hon Bro the Rev James Black opened the meeting by prayer,and thereafter Hon Bro Baillie Taylor unveiled the roll of honour. The names inscribed on the roll were read by Baillie Taylor and are as follows:

Alexander Diack * James A Maitland George W Fullerton Alexander Peter * George Maitland Patrick Simpson

There was a large attendance of the members present, including the whole of the branch executive and several honorary members.

LOYAL ORDER OF ANCIENT SHEPHERDS

July 1, 1920, p 7 - Aberdeen Daily Journal - LOAS MEMORIAL UNVEILED AT INVERURIE

The Banks o’Urie Lodge, LOAS held its half yearly meeting in the Town Hall, Inverurie on Tuesday and was honoured by a visit of the District Executive, consisting of Pte CSJ Mutch, DPCS, J Leslie PPCS, W Knowles, District Treasurer W Leith, W Beaton, A Chatham, J Cruickshank, F Thomson, a Davidson, RC Hall, G Mellis, J Milne, A Low and A Masson. The Pro CS called upon the Rev James Black, Lodge Chaplain to unveil a roll of honour of the members who made the supreme sacrifice in war. The roll of honour bears the following names:

Alexander Aitken Robert McGregor George Anderson James McLeod James Bisset Edward O’Brien George Hay David H Philip George Hird Adam M Philip John Leslie * John Robertson James Lyon * Alexander Smith Alexander Mearns Adam Wilson Allan Milne Alexander Wilson

Sister M Carnie was presented with the 16

th prize

from head of Order for introducing members by PPCS Bro W Knowles

21

Bro Jas Brander was presented with a framed PM certificate for passing twice throug the chairs by DPCS, James Leslie.

ST ANTHONY MASONIC LODGE OF

FREEMASONS (No 154)

October 5, 1921, p 3 - Aberdeen Daily Journal –- INVERURIE MEMORIAL – Unveiling of Masonic Roll of Honour

At a monthly meeting of St Anthony Lodge of Freemasons (No 154), Inverurie held on Monday evening, a roll of honour of the members of the lodge who made the supreme sacrifice in the great war and of those who served was unveiled by Bro Colonel Farquharson RWPGM in presence of a large attendance of members of St Anthony and sister lodges, Bro R Dufton Scott RWM presided.

The ceremony opened with the singing of the 23rd

Psalm, after which Bro the Rev A Anderson, Daviot, chaplain, read the Scripture lesson. After the unveiling ceremony, Bro the Rev James Black RWDGM offered the dedicatory prayer. The names of the fallen were read by Bro John Low LPM and “The last Post” was sounded by Bro John Robertson.

The names of those who fell were:

Capt H D Laing Spr John Forsyth * Sergt J A Russell * Spr J A Joss* Lce-Cpl John Adam Pte J C Robertson

The roll of honour of those who served numbered 145 of whom 6 were killed. The memorial is the work of Mr George Robb, Aberdeen, and the Masonic design is most effective.

Courtesy of St Anthony Lodge

22

SECTION 2 - WORLD WAR II Newspaper items relating to World War II Memorials [1] September 15, 1945, p 6 – Aberdeenshire Events – Inverurie – Town to Have a Roll of Honour

Baillie Bothwell said at the Town Council that while considerable provision was being made for me returning from the forces, they must not forget the man who would not come back, the men who had given their lives in the cause of freedom. He suggested that a list of all such men be drawn up, and that their names be inscribed on the Roll of Honour on the present War Memorial at the Square. The Council unanimously approved that the names of our local heroes be fittingly commemorated.

October 11, 1946, p5 - Aberdeen Press & Journal – Public Notices - Parish of Inverurie – ROLL OF HONOUR

The Town Council of Inverurie propose compiling a ROLL OF HONOUR of Men and Women normally resident in the Burgh and Parish of Inverurie who GAVE THEIR LIVES during the World War, 1939-45. All Relatives and Friends of those in all Services, including the Merchant Navy, who fell in the war are invited to send the NAMES and full details to the TOWN CLERK, 4 High Street, Inverurie, on or before 31st October, 1948

August 25. 1948, p 5 – Public Notices - Estimates – Royal Burgh of Inverurie – WAR MEMORIAL

Tenders are invited for Cutting of Panels on the existing War memorial and the insertion of additional names therein. Forms of specification and further particulars may be obtained from the Burgh Surveyor at the Town House, Inverurie, who will point out the work

G D KELLAS, Town Clerk

November 12, 1950

Unveiling of 1939-45 War Memorial [6]

23

CHURCH MEMORIALS

INVERURIE WEST CHURCH – Chapel Chancel

April 24, 1950, p 8 – Aberdeen Press & Journal – INVERURIE WEST CHURCH REMEMBERS The Inverurie West Church memorial and chancel to the memory of those who gave their lives in the two great wars were dedicated by the Rev Dr W W Gauld, Queen’s Cross Church, Aberdeen, at the morning service yesterday. The devotional part of the service was conducted by the Rev w Cochrane, minister of the church.

Among those present were the Provost, magistrates, councillors and town officials, representatives of the local branch of the British Legion, and a company of the Royal Artillery from Gordon Barracks, Aberdeen. Mrs M Crichton, Edinburgh, widow of the Rev Dr A H Crichton, former minister of the church, also attended.

1935-1945

ROBERT W ADDISON * WILLIAM BOLTON FREDERICK DEANS

RODERICK HENDERSON ANDREW M McINTOSH ROBERT McKELVIE ANDREW PATTERSON ALEXANDER B REID ARTHUR ROBERTSON NORMAN ROSS * NORMAN J SHAND

CHARLES STEWART * LEONARD G GRANT*

24

ST ANDREW’S PARISH CHURCH - Chapel

STEPHEN S ANGUS

JAMES R LINDSAY *

ALEXANDER BARRON RONALD G LINDSAY * ROBERT BIRSE FRANK J MATHERS

ANTHONY M BISSET ALEXANDER McHARDY JAMES A CAMPBELL DAVID H PICKEMAN WILLIE R CARDNO ANGUS B ROBERTSON JAMES S CLARK DAVID SKINNER ERNEST W CRAIG BENJAMIN J STRACHAN WILLIAM W DAVIE DONALD A THAIN ARTHUR GOVE * STANLEY I THOMSON GEORGE GREEN GEORGE G YOUNG WILLIAM LAWIE

JAMES MILNE

Their names liveth for evermore

September 29, 1945, p 6 The People’s Journal - Aberdeenshire Events – Inverurie – POLISH SOLDIERS’ GESTURE A bronze memorial plaque presented by Polish soldiers quartered in the burgh was unveiled at the morning service in the South Parish church. The plaque bears the inscription: - “Gifted by the Protestant soldiers of Poland who found the place of God and Christian Fellowship in this church during their exile – 1945.”

The service was conducted by Rev Inglis M Black, minister of the church, assisted by Captain Terdor Stoy, brought Ferry, padre to the Protestant Polish soldiers.

Address was given by Rev I M Black, and the plaque was dedicated by Captain Stoy.

After the unveiling by Cpl Ludwik Hydzieczck, the Polish National Anthem was played. The plaque was draped by the Polish flat surmounted by the Union Jack. The interpreters during the service were Mrs John Sim and Miss Edith M McKenzie. At the evening service an address on “The Church in Poland” was given by Captain Stoy. [2]

25

COMMEMORATED ELSEWHERE – Name Other Memorials

Addison, Robert W Inverurie Bass West Church WW2

Anderson, George Edmond St Mary's Churchyard

Black, Henry P Inverurie Bass

Black, William J Inverurie Bass

Cowie, Alexander L St Andrew’s Communion Table Aberdeenshire Constabulary

Cruickshank, James Inverurie Bass

Diack, Alexander Inverurie Gardeners

Duncan, Alex Smith Inverurie Bass

Findlay, Alexander W Inverurie Bass

Forbes, Kenneth Wm Inverurie Bass

Forsyth, John St Anthony Lodge

Gove, Arthur St Andrew’s Chapel

Grainger, Douglas Inverurie Bass

Grant, Edward St Andrew’s Communion Table

Grant, Leonard G West Church WW2

Grubb, Alexander St Andrew’s Communion Table

Joss, John A St Andrew’s Communion Table St Anthony Lodge

Kelty, G W Albert Inverurie Bass

Leith, James St Andrew’s Communion Table

Leslie, John LOAS

Lindsay, James R St Andrew’s Chapel

Lindsay, Ronald G (NB Roland) St Andrew’s Chapel

Lyon, James LOAS

Machray, William St Andrew’s Communion Table

Matheson, John A Inverurie Bass

McKillops, John St Andrew’s Communion Table

Mearns, William Mellis Inverurie Bass

Morrison, Charles Davie St Andrew’s Communion Table

Murchison, Iain Raymond Inverurie Bass

Murrison, John Inverurie Bass

Pearson, David B St Andrew’s Communion Table

Peter, Alexander Inverurie Gardeners

Robb, Tom Inverurie Bass

Robertson, William GR St Andrew’s Communion Table

Ross, Jimmy Inverurie Bass

Ross, Norman West Church WW2

Russell, James A St Anthony Lodge

Scott, James Inverurie Bass

Shearer, William Inverurie Bass

Sim, John St Andrew’s Communion Table

Skinner, Robert West Church WW1

Smith, Alexander Inverurie Bass

Spence, Alexander St Andrew’s Communion Table

Stewart, Charles St Andrew’s Chapel

Stuart, Alexander St Andrew’s Communion Table

Sutherland, Duncan Inverurie Bass

Walker, Edward Inverurie Bass

Webster, Stanley Inverurie Bass

26

SERVICEMEN WHOSE NAMES APPEAR ON MEMORIALS WITHIN INVERURIE, INCLUDING THOSE

COMMEMORATED ON INVERURIE BASS HEADSTONES, BUT WHO ARE NOT RECORDED ON THE

INVERURIE WAR MEMORIAL

ABERDEENSHIRE CONSTABULARY – INVERURIE

See Cowie & Pearson in St Andrew’s WW1

INVERURIE WEST CHURCH

WW1

Name Robert SKINNER

Date of Birth C 1898

Date of Death 03/10/1918

Age 22

CWGC Son of Charles & M Skinner, Upper Inver, Monymusk, Aberdeenshire

Rank Private

Regiment 13th Black Watch

Serial No 315706

Enlisted Inverurie

Place of Death France

Cemetery Unicorn Cemetery, Vendhuile, Aisne

Ancestry.co.uk Enlisted Inverurie

Newspaper

Aberdeen Daily

Journal

31/03/1919, p3

MONYMUSK WAR MEMORIAL

Missing since July 1918, believed dead, Robert Skinner, son of Mr Charles

Skinner, Upper Inver.

Memorial

Aberdeen City & District Roll of Honour

GNSR Memorial Aberdeen Railway Station

Inverurie West Church

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 56438567

Commemorated

Monymusk Churchyard [7]:

Erected by Margaret SKINNER in loving memory of her husband CHARLES L.

SKINNER late farmer, Upper Inver, Monymusk d. Roseseat, Wartle 3 Feb 1929

aged 64; son CHARLES d. Upper Inver, Monymusk 4 Aug. I908 aged 7½; son

ROBERT killed in action in France 3 Oct. 1918 aged 22; above MARGARET

SKINNER d. 20 Donmouth Road, Aberdeen I5 Feb. I949 aged 78; daus. EMILY

d. 18 Feb. I959 aged 55; AGNES d. 18 Apr. 1965 aged 66.

27

WW2

Name Leonard Gordon GRANT

Date of Death 23/08/1948

Rank Pilot

Regiment Royal Air Force

Place of Death Scotland - Kinloss

Memorials Inverurie West Church - Chapel Chancel

Findagrave No 138214331

Newspaper

Press & Journal,

25/08/1948, p 1

(photo)

Killed at Kinloss – Pilot Leonard G Grant, son of Mr and Mrs W G Grant, 45

Middlemuir Road, was one of the eight airmen who lost their lives when the Lancaster

bomber crashed on Kinloss Aerodrome on Monday.

Burial

Inverurie Bass:

In loving memory of our dear son, LEONARD GORDON GRANT, Pilot RAF, killed in

Flying Accident 23 August 1948 aged 23; also his father, WILLIAM GEORGE GRANT

who d 5 Sept 1969 aged 91; and his mother, HELEN WEBSTER MURRAY who d 23

May 1977 aged 92; their dear dau HAZEL BROADHURST who d 27 Jul 1989 aged

61.

+++++

Name Norman ROSS

Date of Death 02/11/1942

Age 26

CWGC Son of Frederick Ross and of Williamina Ross (nee Reid); husband of Jean Ross

(nee Webster), of Inverurie, Aberdeenshire.

Rank Serjeant

Regiment Gordon Highlanders

Serial No 2876194

Place of Death Egypt

Cemetery El Alamein, War Cemetery

Memorial

Inverurie West Church - Chapel Chancel

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 55972194

Newspaper

Press & Journal,

18/11/1942, p 3

Roll of Honour:

ROSS – Killed in action in the Middle East in November 1942, Sgt Norman Ross,

husband of Jean M Webster, 23a Falconer Place, Inverurie, and youngest son of Mr

and Mrs R Ross, “Hamewith”, Sauchen.

+++++

Name Charles STEWART

Date of Death 1943

Rank Private

Memorial West Church Chapel Chancel

Newspaper

People’s Journal,

06/03/1943, p8

(photo)

Pte Charles Stewart, husband of Mrs C Stewart, 35 George Square, Inverurie, killed

in action.

LOYAL ORDER OF ANCIENT SHEPHERDS

Name John LYON

Memorial Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds

+++++

Name James LESLIE

Memorial Loyal Order of Ancient Shepherds

28

ST ANDREW’S PARISH CHURCH

WW1

Name Alexander Lonie COWIE

Date of Death 07/06/1918

Age 36

CWGC Husband of Elizabeth Anderson Cowie, "Oakville," Falconer Place, Inverurie.

Rank Sergeant

Regiment Gordon Highlanders 1st/6th Bn

Serial No 266348

Place of Death Germany

Cemetery Berlin South West Cemetery VII. F. 3.

Memorials

Aberdeenshire Constabulary - Police Scotland, Inverurie. [8]

St Andrew's Parish Church Communion Table

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 18597791

Aberdeen

Constabulary War

Memorial

“Sgt Alexander L Cowie, 6th Gordon Highlanders. Sgt Cowie joined the Police in

1907 and was stationed in Cults, Kingswells, Fraserburgh and Oldmeldrum. At the

time of his death he was the Officer at Kintore.” [9]

Newspaper

Aberdeen Free

Press, 05/07/1918

p2

ROLL OF HONOUR – Fallen in Action

Sergeant Alex L Cowie, Gordon Highlanders, (died of wounds in a prisoners’ camp in

Germany), was, before enlisting, policeman at Kintore, where his widow resides.

+++++

Name Edward GRANT

Date of Death WW1

Memorials St Andrew's Parish Church Communion Table

+++++

Name Alexander GRUBB

Date of Death WW1

Memorials St Andrew’s Church Communion Table

+++++

Name John A JOSS

Date of Death 23/12/1917

Age 34

CWGC Son of John & Catherine L Joss, 52 Forest Avenue, Aberdeen.

Rank Sapper

Regiment Royal Engineers, 552nd Army Troops Company (Aberdeen)

Serial No 408199

Place of Death France

Cemetery Bethune Town Cemetery, Pas de Calais

Memorial

St Andrew’s Communion Table

St Anthony Lodge

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 56165707

Newspaper

Aberdeen Daily

Journal

23/12/1919, p 1

In Memoriam

JOSS – In ever loving memory of John Anderson Joss, RE, killed in France, 23rd

December, 1917 – Inserted by his Mother, 52 Forest Avenue, late 16½ Bank Street.

+++++

29

Name James LEITH

Date of Death WW1

Memorials St Andrew’s Communion Table

++++

Name John McKILLOPS

Date of Death Bef 28/05/1918

Memorials St Andrew’s Church Communion Table

Stranraer War Memorial (?)

Newspaper

Aberdeen Daily

Journal

28/5/1918, p 5

District Casualties: INVERURIE

Pte John McKillops, Gordons (missing), was before enlistment manager of the

Inverurie branch of the Dundee Equitable. He belongs to Stranraer.

+++++

Name Charles Davie MORRISON

Date of Death 09/04/1917

Age 32

CWGC Son of Mr & Mrs John Morrison, Railway Gate House, Inverurie;

husband of Annie Morrison, Thorn Cottage, West High Street, Inverurie

Rank Private

Regiment Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment) 11th Battalion

Serial No 76259

Place of Death Belgium

Cemetery Ypres

Memorial

St Andrew’s Parish Church Communion Table

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 12041997

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass [10]: 3/255

In loving memory of JOHN D MORRISON beloved husband of Annie Davie d at Watt

Crescent 11 Nov 1927 aged 72 yrs, also of his sons Charles DAVIE Killed in Action 9

Apr 1917 aged 32 yrs, JAMES d in Toronto 10 Mar 1920 aged 33 yrs, also ANN

McINTOSH widow of C D Morrison d 13 Aug 1929 aged 49 yrs, JOHN d 1 Mar 1932

aged 52 yrs, also the above ANNIE DAVIE d 30 Apr 1937 aged 52 yrs, also ANNIE

dau of the above d 2 Dec 1938 aged 50 yrs, also MARY dau of the above d 24 Oct

1957 aged 75 yrs, also ANNIE dau of C D MORRISON who d 13 Dec 1937 aged 23.

Interred in Grove Cemetery.

+++++

30

Name David B PEARSON

Date of Birth c 1892

Date of Death 17/06/1916

Age 24

CWGC Adopted son of Catherine Glennie Pearson, 14 Jasmine Place, Aberdeen.

Rank Serjeant

Regiment Gordon Highlanders, 4th Battalion

Serial No 3369

Place of Death France

Cemetery St Pol Communal Cemetery Extension, Ps de Calais

Memorial

Aberdeenshire Constabulary - Police Scotland - Inverurie [8]

St Andrew’s Parish Church Communion Table

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 56207941

Other David Bannerman Pearson joined the Aberdeenshire Constabulary in 1912 and

served at Inverurie and Cults

Newspaper

Evening Express

18/06/1917, p 2

In Memoriam:

PEARSON – In affectionate and loving remembrance of our dearly beloved son and

brother, No 3369 Sergeant David B Pearson, Gordon Highlanders, who died of

wounds on 17th June, 1916, at 12

th Stationary Hospital, France, aged 24 years and

11 months – deeply mourned.

Verse

Inserted by his sorrowing Parents and Sister, 14 Jasmine Place, Aberdeen.

+++++

Name John SIM

Date of Death WW1

Memorial St Andrew’s Parish Church Communion Table

+++++

Name Alexander SPENCE

Date of Death WW1

Memorials St Andrew's Parish Church Communion Table

+++++

Name Alexander STUART

Date of Death WW1

Memorials St Andrew's Parish Church Communion Table

31

WW2 – Chapel Memorial

Name Arthur GOVE

Date of Death 02/07/1944

Age 27

CWGC Son of Alexander and Mary Ann Gove; husband of Georgina Gove, Aberdeen

Rank Private

Regiment Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, 7th Battalion

Serial No 2882465

Place of Death France

Cemetery Rannville War Cemetery, Calvados

Memorial

St Andrew’s Parish Church Chapel

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 56096128

Newspaper

Press & Journal, 19/07/1944, p4

Killed in Action: Pte Arthur Gove (27) whose wife and two sons reside at 61½ Loch

Street, Aberdeen, has been killed in action. The youngest son of Mrs Gove, 45

constitution Street, Inverurie, and of the late Mr Alexander Gove, Culter, he was

serving with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders.

+++++

Name James Robb LINDSAY

Date of Death 12/09/1944

Age 28

CWGC Son of Mr & Mrs John Lindsay;

husband of Alexandrina Lindsay, Blackburn, Aberdeenshire

Rank Private

Regiment Gordon Highlanders, 2nd Battalion

Serial No 2885144

Cemetery Singapore

Memorial

Scottish National War Memorial

Singapore Memorial

Findagrave No 56223438

Newspaper

People’s Journal

06/12/1944, p4

(photo)

On Torpedoed Transport:

Gordon Highlander on board the Japanese transport torpedoed in September,

reported missing. Pte James R Lindsay is the husband of Mrs Lindsay, Fullerton

Cottage, Kintore, and son of Mr and Mrs J Lindsay, Balquhain Cottage Pitcaple. He

is twenty-eight. A brother in the RAF was killed six months ago. Four other brothers

are serving.

+++++

Name Roland George LINDSAY

Date of Death 03/06/1944

Age 26

CWGC Son of John Gordon and Helen Ann Lindsay, Pitcaple, Grampian

Rank Sergeant / Wireless Operator (Air)

Regiment Royal Air Force

Serial No 531950

Cemetery Malabo Cemetery, Bioko, Equatorial Guinea

Memorial St Andrew’s Parish Church Chapel

Scottish National War Memorial

Newspaper

People’s Journal

16/06/1944, p4

(photo)

Died on Air Operations:

Sgt Roland George (Dod) Lindsay, RAF, who lost his life during air operations, was

the fourth son of Mr and Mrs J Lindsay, Balquhain Cottages, Pitcaple. Sgt Lindsay

was twenty-six years of age and had eight years’ service with the RAF. Mr and Mrs

Lindsay have given six sons to the Services.

32

ST ANTHONY LODGE NO 154, INVERURIE

Name John FORSYTH

Date of Death 20/04/1917

Age 26

Rank Sapper

Regiment Royal Engineers - Railway Operating Division

Serial No 238323

Place of Death UK - Oldmill Hospital, Aberdeen

Cemetery Burial - Springbank Cemetery, Aberdeen - Sec E 197

Memorial

Aberdeen City & District Roll of Honour

St Anthony Lodge No 154,

Inverurie Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 133557471

Newspaper

Evening Express

20/04/1917, p 3

Roll of Honour:

FORSYTH – At Oldmill Military Hospital, Aberdeen, on the 20th inst, Sapper John

Forsyth, RE, aged 26 years (late of Inverurie Locomotive Works), second beloved

son of James and Margaret Forsyth – deeply regretted. Funeral on Monday, 23rd

inst, at 3 pm from Reservoir Cottage, Mannofield, to Springbank Cemetery. Friends

please accept this (the only) intimation and invitation.

+++++

JOSS, JA – See St Andrew’s

+++++

Name James Alexander RUSSELL

Date of Death 05/08/1917

Age 30

CWGC Son of Alexander and Eliza Keith Russell, 68 Rose Street, Aberdeen

Rank Sergeant

Regiment Royal Army Medical Corps, 1st

/2nd

Highland Field Ambulance

Serial No 303091

Place of Death Belgium

Newspaper

Evening Express

13/08/1917, p 2

Roll of Honour:

RUSSELL – Killed in action on 6th August, Sergt James Russell, RAMC beloved son

of Mr and Mrs Russell, 68 Rose Street, Aberdeen, late of NC Co Ltd, aged 30 years.

Cemetery Gwalia Cemetery, Poperinge, West-Vlaanderen

Memorial

Aberdeen City and District Roll of Honour

St Anthony Lodge No 154, Inverurie

Scottish National War Memorial

Findagrave No 11404917

33

ST MARY’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHYARD

Name George Edmond ANDERSON

Date of Death 25/05/1943

Age 22

Rank Sergeant

Regiment Royal Air Force

Serial No 624878

Place of Death Burma

Cemetery Singapore Memorial

Newspaper

Press & Journal,

28/4/1946, p 4

(photo)

Sergeant Lost in Burma in 1943:

Mr and Mrs R J Anderson, Strathbeg, Pitfodels, have been informed that their

youngest son, Sgt George Edmond Anderson, RAF, who was posted missing three

years ago, is now officially presumed to have lost his life in May 1943.

Sgt Anderson, who was a wireless operator-air gunner, was among airmen who

failed to return from a bombing raid in Burma.

At that time he was twenty-one years of age and had been in the RAF since shortly

before the war. He was a former pupil of Aberdeen Grammar School and of George

Watson’s College, Edinburgh.

Memorial St Mary's Episcopal Churchyard, Inverurie

Findagrave No 56211275

Commemorated

In loving memory of CHRISTINA DUNCAN, wife of R J Anderson, Milton of Fintray

1885-1937 and of their son GEORGE EDMOND RAF 1921-1943 killed in action in

Burma; also the above ROBERT JOHN ANDERSON 1882-1967

INVERURIE BASS CEMETERY

WW1

Name Henry P BLACK

Date of Death 01/07/1916

Age 24

CWGC Son of Mrs Isabella Black, late of Brander Library, Huntly, Aberdeenshire, and the

late Peter Black.

Rank Private

Regiment Highland Light Infantry

Serial No 14941

Place of Death France

Cemetery Thiepval, France

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/402

In loving memory of PETER BLACK ex Sgt. Aberdeenshire Constabulary d.21 July

1918 aged 64, his wife ISABELLA PATERSON d.5 May 1935 aged 74. Their family:

MARY d.16 Mar. 1900 aged 12, WILLIAM J killed in France 16 May 1915 aged 26,

HENRY P killed in France 1 July 1916 aged 24, ALEXANDER d.26 Sept.1932 aged

42, ANNABELLA ELIZABETH d.25 Sept.1942 aged 44.

Memorial Findagrave No 15272515

Sibling William J BLACK

+++++

34

Name William John BLACK

Date of Death 18/05/1915

Age 26

CWGC Son of Mrs Isabella Black, late of Brander Library, Huntly, and the late Peter Black

Rank Lance Corporal

Regiment Scots Guards

Serial No 11643

Place of Death France

Cemetery Le Touret, Pas de Calais, France

Commemorated Inverurie Bass: 2/402

(See brother Henry P Black)

Memorial Findagrave No 15272515

+++++

Name James CRUICKSHANK

Date of Death 24/07/1915

Age 19

CWGC Son of James & Louisa Cruickshank, Auchnagatt, Aberdeenshire.

Rank Private

Regiment Gordon Highlanders, 1st Battalion

Serial No S/9701

Place of Death Belgium

Cemetery Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery, Belgium

Aberdeen

University Roll Of

Honour 1914-1919

(Photo)

CRUICKSHANK, JAMES: Corporal, 3rd Battalion Gordon Highlanders; son of James

Cruickshank, merchant ; born Fyvie, 22 August 1896 ; educated at Inverurie

Academy, where he carried off many prizes; entered the University (3rd Bursar in

Arts), October 1914. In April 1915 he enlisted in the 3rd Battalion Gordon

Highlanders, and proceeded with his Battalion to Belgium in June. About a month

later he died of wounds received in action near Ypres, 22 July 1915. [11]

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass, 2/424:

In loving memory of MARY LOUISA dau. of JAMES CRUICKSHANK d.1 Dec.1903

aged 4, his son JAMES killed in action in France 24 July 1915 aged 19. Above

JAMES CRUICKSHANK d.10 July 1950 aged 72, his wife LOUISA TAYLOR d.31

Jan.1968 aged 91. MARY S. CRUICKSHANK dau. of JOHN CRUICKSHANK d.20

Aug.1958 aged 78. JOHN CRUICKSHANK Colporteur, Pitcaple d.27 June 1912

aged 57, his wife MARGARET CASTLE d.16 Jan.1940 aged 87.

Memorial Findagrave No 10772948

+++++

Name Alexander Smith DUNCAN

Date of Death 29/06/1916

Age 41

Newspaper

Evening Express

15/05/1917, p 3

Acknowledgements:

DUNCAN – Mrs Duncan and Family return sincere thanks to all friends, and specially

the teachers and scholars of Inverurie Academy and Public School, for the

expressions of kind sympathy extended to them in their recent sad bereavement. –

Homely Cottage, Inverurie.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: Sec 2/071:

In loving memory of JAMES DUNCAN beloved husband of ANNIE WATT d Homely

Cottage, Inverurie 6 May 1917 aged 61. His dau. EUPHEMIA wife of ALEXANDER

NIVEN d Thorn Cottage, Inverurie 23 May 1912 aged 27, his son ALEXANDER

SMITH fell in action 29 June 1916 aged 41. Said ANNIE WATT wife of JAMES

DUNCAN d Homely Cottage, Inverurie 26 Dec.1925 aged 71. Also MARGARET

eldest dau. of above d Aberdeen 16 July 1949 aged 66. JAMES d.3 Dec.1960 aged

74 – interred in Wellshill Cemetery, Perth. (Dearly beloved by BELLA & GEORGE

Canada.)

+++++

35

Name Kenneth William FORBES

Date of Death 26/10/1917

Age 19

CWGC Son of William & Jessie Forbes, 69 Nimrod Road, Streatham, London.

Rank "C" Coy. 3rd/14th Bn. posted to 2nd Bn Gordon Highlanders

Regiment London Scottish

Serial No 511753

Place of Death Belgium

Cemetery Tyne Cot Memorial, Zonnebeke, West-Vlaanderen, Belgium

Newspaper

Aberdeen Daily

Journal

27/12/1918, p 1

PUBLIC NOTICES:

GORDON HIGHLANDERS – Can any 2nd

Battalion men repatriated give

INFORMATION as to the fate of Private KENNETH FORBES, London Scottish,

attached to No 5 Platoon, B Coy, above Battalion, missing since the attack of

Gheluvelt on, 26th October, 1917. Any news will be gratefully received by his father,

W Forbes, 69 Nimrod Road, Streatham, London, SW 16.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 1/285

Sacred to the memory of ALEXANDER FORBES, Baillie in Inverurie, d 14.9.1822

aged 81, and his wife Margaret Simpson d 22.9.1819 aged 42; also their family

Alexander d 22.11.1819 aged 13; Anne d 11.8.1820 aged 20; Janet d 22.6.1871

aged 68; James d 16.7.1873 aged 63, and his wife Jane Henderson d 16.2.1900

aged 94. Sacred to the memory of Margaret Stephen, wife of William Forbes,

Aberdeen d 17.11.1881 aged 73, also the above William Forbes d 20.8.1886 aged

78; their daughter Anne d 15.12.1890 aged 38; Margaret d 6.11.1917 also James,

their son d 25.1.1922.

Sacred to the memory of Alexander Forbes MD, Aberdeen, son of William Forbes, d

30.8.1880 aged 38, and of his children Annie and Alexander who died in infancy,

also Maria Scott Moir, wife of the above d 28.2.1908 aged 63.

Sacred to the memory of KENNETH WM FORBES, Grandson of Alexander Forbes

MD, Private in the London Scottish Regiment who was missing at Gheluvelt,

26.10.1917, aged 19.

Memorial Findagrave No 11946728

+++++

Name Douglas R GRAINGER

Date of Birth C 1890

Date of Death 2510/1918

Age 28

CWGC Son of the late Robert & Jane Grainger, Aberdeen;

husband of Helen Robertson Grainger, 79 High Street, Inverurie

Rank Private

Regiment Highland Light Infantry

Serial No 25273

Place of Death Iraq

Memorials Basra Memorial

Findagrave No 12985050

Newspaper

Evening Express

26/11/1918, p 2

Roll of Honour:

GRAINGER – Killed in action on 25th October, 1918, Private Douglas Robert

Grainger, HLI, aged 28 years, dearly beloved husband of Helen Robertson, Old

Bourtie Cottage, Inverurie, and late of Chapel of Garioch.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/022

Erected in honoured remembrance of Pte. DOUGLAS R.GRANGER killed in action

in Mesopotamia 26 Oct.1918 aged 28. 1 line text.

+++++

36

Name George William Albert KELTY

Date of Birth 03/08/1894

Date of Death 03/10/1918

Age 23

CWGC Son of Mr & Mrs John M Kelty, 38 Mount Street, Aberdeen

Rank Second Lieutenant

Regiment Royal Air Force, 11th Squadron

Serial No 175318

Place of Death France

Memorials Bagneux British Cemetery, Gezaincourt

Findagrave No 138235959 & 56543590

Newspaper

Evening Express

07/10/1918, p3

Roll of Honour:

KELTY – Killed on October 3, 2nd

Lieutenant G W A Kelty, Royal Air Force, aged 23

years, beloved son of Mr and Mrs John M Kelty, 38 Mount Street, Aberdeen. Deeply

mourned.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/036

Sacred to the memory of G.W.ALBERT KELTY Sergt Lieut. Royal Air Force killed in

action 3 Oct.1918. Also ALICE ELIZA & ARTHUR d.in infancy.

+++++

Name William MACHRAY

Date of Death 12/10/1917

Age 22

CWGC Son of William and Christian Machray, Clyne, Whiterashes, Aberdeen. Native of New

Machar, Aberdeen.

Rank Serjeant

Regiment Royal Scots, 12th Battalion

Serial No 27959

Place of Death Belgium

Cemetery Tyne Cot Cemetery

Memorial

St Andrew’s Parish Church Communion Table

Robert Gordon’s College Roll of Honour

Findagrave No 10837384

Ancestry.co.uk UK Army Roll of Honour, Vol 3, p181 (Photo)

Newspaper

Evening Express

23/07/1917, p 2

DCM – Sergeant Wm Machray

Sergeant William Machray, Royal Scots, the older son of Mr William Machray, Clyne,

Newmachar, has received the Distinguished Conduct Medal. He was serving his

apprenticeship with Messrs Mitchell and Watt, chartered accountants, 210 Union

Street, previous to joining the army.

Newspaper

Evening Express

19/11/1917, p 3

Roll of Honour:

MACHRAY – Killed in action, on the 12th October, Sergeant William Machray, DCM,

Royal Scots, aged 22½ years, eldest and dearly beloved son of William Machray,

Clyne, Newmachar.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/548

In loving memory of WILLIAM MACHRAY farmer in Clyne, Newmachar d.19

Nov.1933 aged 69. His son Sergeant WILLIAM MACHRAY DCM, Royal Scots fell in

action 12 Oct.1917 aged 22½ - interred in Tyne Cottage Cemetery, Ypres.

CHRISTINA ANDERSON wife of said WILLIAM MACHRAY d.26 May 1950 aged 86.

Their 2nd son GEORGE MACHRAY d. Pinner 22 June 1978 aged 79.

+++++

37

Name William Mellis MEARNS

Date of Birth 07/12/1884

Date of Death 01/01/1915

Age 32

CWGC Son of William & Mary A Mearns, 22 Bewick Road, Gateshead

Rank Surgeon

Regiment Royal Navy

Place of Death Lost at sea in English Channel on "HMS Formidable"

Ancestry UK, De Ruvigny's Roll of Honour, 1914-1919, Vol 1, p 250

Newspaper

The Manchester

Courier

04/12/1915, p1

SECOND LIST ISSUED BY THE ADMIRALTY

List of Missing Officers:….

Surgeon William Mearns, MB

Memorials

Chatham Naval Memorial, Kent

Keithhall

Findagrave No 14376606

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 1/330

In memory of BENJAMIN MEARNS, farmer, Neilsbrae, Fintray who d 9 Mar 1884

aged 75, and his wife CATHERINE BAXTER who d 22 Jul 1889 aged 85, and their

daughter JANE who d 1 Oct 1861 aged 1861 aged 25, and their son BENJAMIN who

d 23 Nov 1887 aged 43, also their son GEORGE, famer Isaacstown, Keith-hall who d

16 Dec 1915 aged 82, also WILLIAM MELLIS MEARNS, Surgeon, RN b 7 Dec 1884

who lost his life by the sinking of HMS Formidable 1 Jan 1915, also KATHERINE

MEARNS b 15 May 1886, d 18 Mar 1919, children of Dr William Mearns, Gateshead

and grandchildren of Benjamin and Catherine Baxter Mearns, also of JANE

BAXTER, wife of the above George Mearns who d at Balbithan 5 Jul1924 aged 77,

also of the above Dr WILLIAM MEARNS, youngest son of Benjamin Mearns Sen

who d at Ecclestone, Darlington 4 Apr 1926 aged 76. Also of CATHERINE BURR,

wife of the above Benjamin Mearns JP who d at Aberdeen 12 Apr 1929 aged 77.

Other Medals sold with biography

+++++

Name Iain Raymond MURCHISON

Date of Death 20/05/1915

Age 19

CWGC

Son of Donald and Annie Murchison, Brae Cottage, Keith Hall, Inverurie. Native of

Auchindoir, Aberdeenshire.

Headstone document – address Mr D Murchison, Brae Cottage, Keithhall

Rank Private

Regiment Gordon Highlanders, 7th Battalion

Serial No 639

Place of Death France

Cemetery Hazebrouck Communal Cemetery, Nord

Memorial Findagrave No 56489381

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 3/292

In memory of DONALD MURCHISON, gamekeeper, Keithhall d 3 Jul 1934, his sons,

THEODORE CASH d at Crathes 8 May 1898, IAIN-RAYMOND d in France 28 May

1915, also his wife ANNIE McKENZIE who d 5 May 1964.

+++++

38

Name John Skelton MURRISON

Date of Birth 14/04/1893

Date of Death 03/09/1918

Age 32

CWGC Son of Elizabeth Murrison, 44, St. Swithin's Street, Aberdeen, and the late John S.

Murrison.

Rank Private

Regiment Canadian Infantry, 10th Battalion

Serial No 883559

Place of Death France

Ancestry.co.uk

Canada, War Graves (Circumstances of Casualty), 1914-1918

“Died of Wounds” – Whilst advancing with his Company along the sunken road at

Cagnicourt, on September 2nd

1918, at about 11.00 am, he was wounded in the left

thigh and abdomen. He was taken to the Regimental Aid Post and evacuated to No

42 Casualty Clearing Station, where he died the next day.

Memorials Aubigny Communal Cemetery Extension - Findagrave No 56154325

Canadian Virtual War Memorial

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 1/207

Erected by Elizabeth Adam in loving memory of her husband George McCURRACH

who d 1872 aged 34 yrs, also of their daughter ANNIE who d 1878 aged 16 yrs, also

of their son REV WILLIAM ADAM, aged 31 yrs and his wife CLARA NOVELLA

SCHOLEY aged 31 yrs, Missionaries in China who were massacred in the Boxers’

Rising 1900 and are interred in the cemetery at Hsin Chou, also their da JANE

PHILIP who d 1 Jan 1906 aged 39 yrs, also the above JANE PHILIP who d 1 Jan

1906 aged 39 yrs, also the above ELIZABETH ADAM who d 1 Dec 1924 aged 86 yrs

and her beloved dau ELIZABETH, widow of John Murrison who d 29 May 1942 aged

87 yrs, whose dearly loved son, JOHN, fell in Flanders Sept 1918 aged 32 yrs.

+++++

Name William G R ROBERTSON

Date of Death 04/05/1916

Age 31

CWGC Son of William & Catherine Falconer Rennie Robertson, 21 Kintore Place, Aberdeen.

Rank Private

Regiment Gordon Highlanders, 4th Battalion

Serial No 3657

Place of Death Wharncliffe War Hospital, Sheffield

Cemetery Inverurie Bass Cemetery

Memorials St Andrew’s Parish Communion Table

Findagrave No 75728737

Newspaper

Evening Express

05/05/1916, p 3

Roll of Honour:

ROBERTSON – At Wharncliffe War Hospital, Sheffield, on the 4th May, Private

William G R Robertson, Gordon Highlanders, late of Mayfield, Inverurie. Funeral on

Monday, the 8th May, at 12 noon, from the house, 21 Kintore Place, Aberdeen, to

Joint Station, thence to Inverurie Cemetery. Inverurie friends please meet on arrival

of train at 2.6 pm. This the only intimation and invitation.

Gravestone

Inscription

Inverurie Bass: 2/554

In loving memory of CATHERINE FALCONER RENNIE wife of William Robertson

late of Maryfield Inverurie who d at Aberdeen 11 Jan 1914 aged 59 yrs, also of their

son Pte WILLIAM G R ROBERTSON 4th Batt Gordon Highlanders who died of

wounds at Sheffield 4 May 1916 aged 31 yrs, the said WILLIAM ROBERTSON who

d 25 Jan 1932 aged 79 yrs, also their dau CATHERINE ANN who d 12 Nov 1964

aged 82 yrs.

+++++

39

Name James SCOTT

Date of Death 18/05/1918

Age 22

CWGC Son of James & Jane Scott, Police Station, Huntly, Aberdeenshire.

Rank Private

Regiment Gordon Highlanders, 6th Battalion

Serial No 266165

Place of Death France

Cemetery Maresquel Churchyard near North corner, Pas de Calais

Memorial Findagrave No 50585168

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/029

Erected by JAMES SCOTT ex Police Inspector in memory of his sons FREDDIE d.5

Sept.1904 aged 5, JAMES 6th Gordon Highlanders accidentally drowned while

bathing 10 May 1918 aged 22 – interred Maresquel, France. His son GEORGE

ALEXANDER d.13 Nov. 1944 aged 43 – interred Abbey Park Cemetery, Stoke

Newington, London. The said ex Police Inspector JAMES SCOTT d.11 July 1945

aged 81, his wife JANE REID NICOL d.26 Jan.1960 aged 86.

+++++

Name Alexander SMITH

Date of Death 03/07/1916

Age 37

Rank Private

Regiment Highland Light Infantry, 15th Battalion

Serial No 27123

Place of Death France

Cemetery Serre Road Cemetery No 2, Somme

Findagrave No 56092823

Ancestry HLI enlisted Insch- SNWM

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/344

Erected by Mrs SMITH’s family in loving memory of JAMES SMITH Rothney, Insch

who was called home 23 Sept.1898 aged 61. His sons JOHN ANDERSON

missionary d. Insch 10 May 1901 aged 30, PETER d. Crosshill, Ayr 21 Feb.1902

aged 27 – interred at Prestwick Churchyard. Said Mrs. SMITH d. Insch 8 Sept.1907

aged 63. ALEXANDER killed in action in France July 3rd

1916 aged 37, their dau.

ELIZABETH d.17 Aug.1937 aged 68.

+++++

Name Edward WALKER

Date of Death 01/08/1917

Age 24

CWGC Son of Alexander and Jane Walker, Kincardine O’Neil, Aberdeenshire. Born at

Chapel of Garioch, Pitcaple

Rank Private

Regiment Army Service Corps, 72nd

Field Bakery

Serial No S4/157489

Place of Death Tanzania

Cemetery Morogoro Cemetery

Findagrave No 56396856

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 3/319

In loving memory of ALEXANDER WALKER, late of Hillhead Pitcaple who d at the

Bakery Kincardine O’Neil on 27 Dec 1934 aged 78 yrs; also his son EDWARD Pte

RASC who d in East Africa on 1 Aug 1917 aged 24 yrs buried in Morogoro Cemetery

Tanganika, also our dear mother JANE MIDDLETON beloved wife of the above

Alexander Walker d at 29 Watson Street, Mrs on 15 Jan 1953 aged 95 yrs, also their

son ALEXANDER who d 5 Feb 1973 aged 92 yrs, also their dau MARY JULIA who d

10 Jul 1980 aged 91 yrs; and their dau BEATRICE who d 26 Dec 1980 aged 80 yrs.

40

WW2

Name Robert William ADDISON

Date of Death 16/06/1944

Age 29

CWGC Son of Frank and Jane Addison, of Ballater, Aberdeenshire.

Rank Private

Regiment Gordon Highlanders

Serial No 2885659

Place of Death France

Cemetery Ranville, Calvados, France

Newspaper

Press & Journal,

10/07/1944, p 3

Roll of Honour:

ADDISON – Killed in action in June, 1944, Pte Robert W Addison, Gordon

Highlanders, second son of Mr and Mrs Frank Addison, Craiguise, Ballater. Deeply

regretted.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 3/130

In loving memory of ROBERT WILLIAM 1st Gordon Highlanders, son of Frank and

Jane ADDISON fell in action in France 16 Jun 1944 aged 29 yrs, interred in Ranville

Cemetery, and of their daughter JEAN who d in infancy, and the above FRANK

ADDISON who d at Craiguise Ballater 10 Mar 1950 aged 68 yrs, and the above

JANE LESLIE or ADDISON who d at Ballater 3 Oct 1958 aged 68 yrs.

+++++

Name Alexander William FINDLAY

Date of Death 19/01/1944

Age 44

CWGC Son of George & Elizabeth Findlay;

husband of Margaret Porter Findlay of Kalamunda, Western Australia.

Rank Private

Regiment Australian Infantry

Serial No WX8874

Place of Death Thailand

Cemetery Kanchanaburi Military Cemetery [12]

Findagrave No 36225045

Memorial Scottish National War Memorial

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/140:

In loving memory of GEORGE FINDLAY d.27 July 1910 aged 40, his wife

ELIZABETH ROBERTSON d.5 Sept.1932 aged 57. Their daus. JANET

ROBERTSON d.12 May 1908 aged 3, GEORGINA HELEN MURRAY d.26 Aug.1917

aged 8. Their son ALEXANDER W FINDLAY AIF d in POW Camp, Japan 1944.

+++++

41

Name John Anderson MATHESON

Date of Birth C 1920

Date of Death 08/09/1944

Age 24

CWGC Son of John & Janet Matheson, Aberdeen.

Rank Able Seaman

Regiment Merchant Navy, “SS Empire Heritage” (Cardiff) [13]

Memorials Tower Hill Memorial, London – Findagrave No 15239608

Scottish National War Memorial

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 3/574

In memory of JESSIE C McMILLAN beloved wife of William Ririe d at Cambus,

Barclay Road, Inverurie 27 Sept 1947 aged 73 yrs, also her grandson JOHN A

MATHESON, lost at sea 8 Sept 1944 aged 24 yrs, also the above WILLIAM RIRE,

retired stationmaster d 28 Dec 1957 aged 82 yrs also their eldest dau AGNES

ALLAN d 23 Oct 1961 aged 63 yrs.

+++++

Name Tom More Thomson RO+BB

Date of Death 29/04/1942

Age 24

CWGC Son of William J Robb & Marion More Thomson Robb, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire

Rank Lance Corporal

Regiment Royal Corps of Signals, IV Corps

Serial No 2336383

Place of Death India

Memorial Delhi War Memorial – Findagrave No 22914289 & 138282008

Scottish National War Memorial

Newspaper

People’s Journal

06/06/1942, p 5 with

photo

Aberdeenshire Events – INVERURIE

GALLANT RESCUE RECALLED BY DEATH OF LOCAL SOLDIER

L-Cpl Tom M t Robb, Royal Corps of signals, second son of Mr and Mrs W J Robb,

70a High Street, has died at Jubbalpore, India. He enlisted over two years ago, and

on going abroad was transferred to the Indian Corps of Signals. He was 24 years of

age.

L-Cpl Robb was the central figure in a gallant rescue in December 1940. The official

record of the incident reads – “On 18th December the water truck of the Divisional

Signals skidded and overturned, crashed through a hedge, and came to rest in a

very precarious position upside down, overhanging a broad ditch in which there was

from six to ten feet of water.

“The two occupants of the truck were injured and in a dazed and semi-conscious

condition. Driver Robb, who was following hard behind the water truck, immediately

went to their assistance. While other people were hesitating what to do owing to the

precarious position of the truck, he jumped into the ditch and succeeded in rescuing

the two occupants. But for the prompt action of Driver Robb, the driver of the truck

would undoubtedly have been drowned.

Before joining up L-Cpl Robb was employed with Messrs John Gray & Son, motor

hirers, Bucksburn.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 3/117

In memory of IAN STEWART ROBB, from his fellow workers at Mugiemoss Mills 28

February 1940. IN MEMORY OF TOM ROBB, Royal Corps of Signals d In India 29

Apr 1942.

+++++

42

Name James ROSS (“Jimmy”)

Date of Birth C1920

Date of Death 25/05/1940

Age 20

CWGC Son of James & Elsie Ross, Aberdeen.

Rank Gunner

Regiment Royal Artillery, 56 Medium Regiment

Serial No 891949

Place of Death France

Ancestry UK Army Roll of Honour 1939-45

Memorial Dunkirk Memorial – Findagrave No 17071128

Scottish National War Memorial

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 2/335

In loving memory of WILLIAM GALL d 20 Aug 1944 aged 76, also his beloved wife

AGNES DYCE d 29 Oct 1944 aged 76, also their beloved dau ANNA LOBBAN d in

Dundee 10 Jan 1940 aged 40, also their two children LIZZIE JEAN and George who

d in infancy, also their beloved dau ELSIE d 30 Sept 1981 aged 86, dear wife of

JAMES ROSS d 22 Sept 1959 aged 66 and mother of JIMMY killed in France 1940

aged 19.

+++++

Name William SHEARER

Date of Death 02/07/1943

Age 28

Rank Sergeant - Pilot U/T

Regiment Royal Air Force, 620 Squadron

Serial No 1361268

Place of Death UK - Chedburgh, Suffolk

Cemetery Inverurie Cemetery – Findagrave No 75729095

Memorial Scottish National War Memorial

Newspaper

People’s Journal

14/02/1941, p9

Inverurie Family’s Find Record:

Mr & Mrs Alex Petrie, 22 George Square, Inverurie, have a family of eight – six sons

and two daughters. Apart from Lindsay, the youngest boy, who is still at school, five

sons, one daughter, and two sons-in-law, are all doing their bit in the war effort. Their

names are as follows: Left to right – Nurse (Mrs) Shearer, daughter, John, RAF;

James, Gordons; Douglas, RAF; George ATC (aged 17); and Harold Petrie, Home

Guard (aged 15); WILLIAM SHEARER, RAF, son-in-law; John Jamieson, HAC, son-

in-law.

(Photographs of abovenamed across foot of page.)

Newspaper

Press & Journal

06/07/1943, p3

Roll of Honour

SHEARER – Killed on active service in July 1943, Sgt Wm Shearer, RAF, aged 28,

beloved husband of Jessie Ann Petrie, 53 Jasmine Terrace. Funeral on Wednesday,

7th inst at 2.30 pm, from 22 George Square, Inverurie (the residence of his father-in-

law), to Inverurie Churchyard. All friends respectfully invited.

Gravestone

Inscription

Inverurie Bass: 3/538

In loving memory of WILLIAM SHEARER RAF VR beloved husband of Jessie Petrie,

accidentally killed at Chedburgh, Suffolk 2 Jul 1943 aged 28 yrs. Also the above

JESSIE PETRIE d 16 Oct 2010 aged 94 much loved parents of Bill. Also to the

memory of ALEXANDER PETRIE d 1 Apr 1970 and his wife JESSIE STUART d 1

Feb 1984 also their son JOHN d at Winnipeg 22 Mar 1989 beloved husband of Mary

Cran.

+++++

43

Name Duncan SUTHERLAND

Date of Death 2210/1942

Age 22

CWGC Son of Alexander MacAulay Sutherland and Maggie Andrina Sutherland, of Inverurie,

Aberdeenshire.

Rank Blacksmith 4th Class

Regiment Royal Navy - HMS Adamant

Serial No C/MX 72864

Place of Death Kenya

Cemetery Mombasa (Mbaraki) Cemetery, Nyeri Central – Findagrave No 23se9575

Memorial Scottish National War Memorial

Grave Ref Prot. Service Plot. Row G. Grave 47

Newspaper

People’s Journal

07/11/1942, p 8

(photo)

Leading Seaman Duncan Sutherland, Artannes, Inverurie, accidentally killed abroad.

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 3/462

In loving Memory of ALEXDANDER Mc SUTHLERLAND dearly loved husband of

Maggie Mulligan d 20 Jul 1957 aged 65 yrs, also their son DUNCAN, accidentally

killed on HMS Adamant 22 Oct 1942 aged 22 yrs, interred at Mombasa, also the

above MAGGIE MULLIGAN d 13 Apr 1985 aged 87 yrs.

+++++

Name Stanley WEBSTER

Date of Death 23/04/1944

Age 19

Place of Death Germany

Commemorated

Inverurie Bass: 3/318

In memory of ALEXANDER WEBSTER, beloved husband of Catherine Ewen who d

5 Sept 1936 aged 79 yrs, also our dear grandson SGT STANLEY WEBSTER who

lost his life on air operations over Germany 23 Apr 1944 aged 19 yrs, the said

CATHERINE EWEN d 22 May 1956 aged 82 yrs.

NB Findagrave No 138285665 (grandparents)

INVERURIE GARDENERS

Name Alexander DIACK

Date of Death 17/06/1917

Rank Corporal

Regiment Gordon Highlanders 6th Battalion

Serial No 266099

Place of Death Belgium

Cemetery Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial – Findagrave No 11989703

Memorials Inverurie Gardeners

+++++

Name Alexander PETER

Date of Death 16/4/1919

Age 25

Place of Death Aberdeen

Memorial Inverurie Gardeners

Findagrave No 138288404

44

APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1 – War Graves

August 23, 1918, p 6 - The People’s Journal, THE GRAVES OF OUR HEROES

The Imperial War Graves Commission announce that they are prepared to receive texts, or inscriptions, now; that the cost will be 3½d per letter, subject to alteration; that the text is restricted to 66 letters to prevent overcrowding and too minute detail’ that the money is not to be sent until they ask for it’; that they purpose, in time, to make a photograph of each grave for the relatives. There must be many to whose feelings it would be consoling to see a text of their own choosing on the grave of their dead soldier, and they should make their choice and send it to the Commissioners soon.

December 7, 1918, p 3 – Western Daily Press, Bristol – IMPERIAL WAR GRAVES – INSCRIPTIONS ON HEADSTONE The Imperial War Graves Commission understand that there is some uncertainty in the mind of the public as to the inscriptions that will be placed on the headstones in the war cemeteries, and they hope that the following statement will make the matter clear to all who are interested.

On each headstone there will be inscribed the appropriate religious symbol, which will be, for instance, the Cross for Christian and the sign of David for Jewish graves ; the badge of the regiment or other unit to which the officer or man belonged; and his name, rank, regiment and date of death. The Governments of the different States of the Empire have decided that they should bear the cost of providing these headstones and inscriptions.

In addition, however, relatives will be allowed, if they so desire, to have inscribed, at their own cost, a short text or verse chosen by themselves.

It would appear that some misapprehension has arisen as to the limitations imposed on these personal inscriptions. The matter was carefully discussed at the last meeting of the Commission, when it was recognised that considerations of space made it essential that the inscriptions should not be more than three times in length. Moreover, the Commission, as the authority responsible for the cemeteries, felt bound to reserve to themselves the right of rejecting proposals that for one reason or other were plainly unsuitable. But, subject to these conditions, the Commission wished it to be clearly understood that they had no desire to exercise any censorship in a matter in which they fully recognised that personal feelings should be in every way respected, and that they were anxious to give all possible considerations to the wishes of relatives in regard to the words which were to be inscribed on the memorials of their dead.

It may be further pointed out that in laying down the principle that the personal inscriptions should be in the nature of a text or prayer, the Commission wished to indicate the general character of the words which would be found most suitable for the purpose. There is no intention of limiting them to quotations

from the Bible or the Prayer Book [1].

45

APPENDIX 2 – Memorial Plaque

(Widow’s Penny)

March 20, 1918, p 2 – Aberdeen Daily Journal – MEMORIAL PLAQUE FOR NEXT-OF-KIN – SUCCESSFUL COMPETITORS

In the competition for designs for a memorial plaque to be presented to the next-of-kin of members of his Majesty’s forces who have fallen in the war the following awards have been made:

£250 to “Pyramus” (Mr E Carter Preston, Sandon Studios Society, Liberty Buildings, School Lane, Liverpool) whose model is selected for reproduction. £100 to “Moodie” (Mr Charles Wheeler, 2 Justice Walk Studies, Chelsea) £50 each to “Sculpengro” (Mr William McMillan, 14a Cheyne Row, Chelsea); “Weary” (Sapper G D Macdougald, 207290, 1 Council Chambers, Beaconsfield, Bucks); and “Zero” (Miss A F Whiteside, Kensington Studies, 8 Kelso Place, SW).

The King has been pleased to approve the design.

June 21, 1919, p5 – Aberdeen Daily Journal - IN MEMORY OF THE FALLEN – Issue of Memorial Scroll The memorial scroll for the next –of-kin of those who have fallen in the war is now being issued. The memorial plaque will be issued later.

An official statement issued yesterday says:

Consequent on the decision to issue a memorial plaque and scroll to the next-of-kin of those who have fallen in the war, the Secretary of the War Office announces that the work of distributing the scroll has now begun. In the case of officers, the scroll will be distributed from the War Office; in the case of other ranks, from the Record Office of the unit concerned.

The concurrent issue of the plaque has not been found possible owing to the necessity of building of a special factory for its manufacture, and it has not been thought desirable to delay the issue of the scrolls pending completion of the arrangements for manufacturing and distributing the plaque. A further announcement will be made when the plaques are ready for distribution.

The scroll is of thick paper, in the form of a rectangle, approximately 11 5-16 inches long by 7 7-16 inches wide. It bears the following inscription: -

He who this Scroll commemorates was numbered among those who, at the call of King and Country, left all that was dear to them, endured hardness, faced danger, and finally passed out of the sight of men by the path of duty and self-sacrifice, giving up their own lives that others might live in freedom. Let those who come after see to it that his name be not forgotten.

This is followed by an inscription of the soldier’s name and regiment. The whole inscription is surmounted by a device, including the Royal Arms in colour, with the King’s initials.

The scrolls will be accompanied by the following letter from Buckingham Palace over the King’s signature.

I join with my grateful people in sending you this memorial of a brave life given for others in the great War.

The scrolls will be distributed as they become ready, and no special application for them should be made as, in view of the large number involved, it is impossible to say when their issue in individual cases may be expected.

46

Bibliography

[1] Thomson, DC, “British Newspaper Archive,” BrightSolid, 2014. [Online]. Available:

https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/account/logout. [Accessed May 2014].

[2] Leng, J, The People's Journal (Aberdeen, Banff & Kincardine), John Leng & Co Ltd, Bank

Street, Dundee.

[3] Inverurie Town Clerk, “Inverurie Town Council Minutes,” in AS/Aivr/1/1/16, Inverurie, 1916.

[4] Inverurie Town Clerk, “Inverurie Town Council Minutes,” in AS/Aivr/1/1/17, Jul 1920 - 26 Oct

1922.

[5] Inverurie Town Clerk, “Inverurie Town Council Minutes,” in AS/Aivr/1/1/18, 1922-1926.

[6] Garioch Heritage Society, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

[7] J. M. Shewan, Monumental Inscriptions for Monymusk Churchyard, Aberdeen: Aberdeen &

North East Family History Society, 1986.

[8] Scottish Military Research Group, “The Scottish War Memorials Project,” [Online]. Available:

www.scottishmilitaryresearch.co.uk. [Accessed July 2014].

[9] Grampian Police Pipe Band, “Aberdeenshire Constabulary War Memorial,” [Online]. Available:

http://www.grampianpolicepipeband.com/news/stories/2008/027.html. [Accessed July 2014].

[10] A. I. Ingram, Monumental Inscriptions for Inverurie Cemetery, Riley, Dunn and Wilson Ltd,

1998.

[11] University of Aberdeen, University of Aberdeen Roll of Service in the Great War 1914-1919,

Aberdeen: Aberdeen University Press, 1921.

[12] Findagrave Misc Contributors, “Find A Grave,” [Online]. Available:

http://www.findagrave.com/index.html. [Accessed May 2014].

[13] G. Helgason, “uboat.net,” 1995. [Online]. Available: http://www.uboat.net/index.html.

[Accessed May 2014].

[14] Wikimedia Foundation, “Wikipedia.org,” The Free Encyclopedia, [Online]. Available:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Plaque_(medallion). [Accessed July 2014].

[15] SNWM Trustees, “Scottish National War Memorial,” Registered charity No SC009869,

[Online]. Available: www.snwm.org/. [Accessed May 2014].

[16] British Listed Buildings, “Kaimhill Crematorium,” BritishListedbuildings.co.uk, [Online].

Available: http://www.britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/sc-50178-kaimhill-road-kaimhill-funeral-home-

forme. [Accessed July 2014].

[17] Commonwealth War Graves Commission, “CWGC: Commonwealth War Graves

47

Commission,” [Online]. Available: http://www.cwgc.org/. [Accessed May 2014].

i * Not on Inverurie War Memorial ii + Also on St Andrew’s Chapel Memorial