10am - last entry 4pm Donations / Membership

Gallery | People

Back to Albums

There are 258 images in our collection which match the category of People. Please select a photo to view it in more detail and to read comments from other visitors.

Showing 258 photos.

Photograph of the family of D A Ross, who can be seen on the right, taken in the summer of 1890.

Family of David A Ross

1890

My Great great great great grandfather Gordon Ross, schoolmaster, of Helmsdale. Lived 1791 - 1868. This photograph has been handed down and came to me via my Great grandmother, Elspeth Sutherland Still (nee Christian). There is a memorial to Gordon Ross in the churchyard at Helmsdale. The original photograph measures 6 x 9 cm.

Gordon Ross, schoolmaster

1868

Here is Tain's first rock band - The Rough Diamonds - pictured around 1964. The photo was taken in The Grove beside the old Post Office. From left to right we have David Ross, David Bremner, Robert Mackay and Alex Graham.

The boys were a little short of sound equipment when the photo was taken, but by 1966 they were playing regularly in Tain Town Hall and around the north. They broke up in September 1968 when the two Davids left for further education in Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Robert and Alex went on to form The Midas Touch with Stewart Macpherson.

Tain's first rock band - The Rough Diamonds

1964

A citrine jewel on a gold swivel (a fob for a waistcoat watch-chain) that belonged to my great-great-grandfather, David Mackenzie (1815-1903), who was a tenant farmer by the village of Edderton, near Tain. He was the father of eleven children, three of whom are also shown in the Image Library, namely Murdo, Charles and Jessie (my great-grandmother).

New Picture

2017

Jessie nÃ©e Mackenzie was my great-grandmother. She was born in 1854 at a farm by the village of Edderton, near Tain (Rhamore farm, aka. Rathmore). She was one of eleven children of tenant farmers, Jessie & David Mackenzie. Two of their sons, Murdo and Charles, are also shown in photographs in the Image Museum.
David Mackenzie later took the tenancy of nearby Craigroy farm, which passed to his youngest son, Robert, and then to the latterâ€™s only son, David, who held it until 2000 (but as he had no issue it passed out of the family).
On June 2nd, 1879, my great-grandmother, Jessie, wed a shepherd named John Gallie, and just two days later they embarked on the clipper ship, the â€œNelsonâ€, which sailed from the Clyde. On August 28th, it arrived at Otago on the South Island of New Zealand, where shepherds were in much demand for the sheep rearing industry, and there he became a sheep ranch manager. Unfortunately, he died aged only 27 on March 21st, 1883, from the effects of an appendicitis, and was buried in Dunedin. However, the widowed Jessie (with two young daughters) decided to return to her parental home in Edderton; and in 1895 she married my great-grandfather, Alexander MacArthur, who was a farmer in Nairnshire. Jessie died on August 8th, 1941, and was buried in Cawdor, Nairnshire.
â€“ Ian Harris

Jessie (nee) Mackenzie Edderton

2017

A photo of John B. Shivas when he was a Postman with the Tain Post Office approximate year 1955.

John B Shivas, Tain Postman.

1955 (1 comments)

Black and white postcard of Prince Albert, the future King George VI,with two friends, passing in front of C.W. Ross shop on Tain High Street. The prince who was serving with the Royal Navy at the time was on his way to play a round of golf at Tain Golf Club.

Prince Albert

1915

Black and white photograph of Gordon Maitland with Marian MacKenzie (Baby Sheriff), daughter of Sheriff MacKenzie, at junction of Manse Street and Quarry Road (later Craighill Terrace), before 1920. Gordon Maitland was a member of the Maitland family who were prominent architects in Tain for many years.

Gordon Maitland with Marian MacKenzie

1910

This is Ronnie Duncan at work in the TV workshop of DW Shivas/Wyvis Electrics. It was taken in 1969. Apart from being a TV repair workshop it also served as a drop in/general chat centre for both the worthies and notables of the town.

Ronnie Duncan

1969 (1 comments)

John Murray at work in the rear workshop of D W Shivas/Wyvis Electrics in 1969. He is repairing a Russel Hobbs kettle. I believe John spent many subsequent years working at Glenmorangie.

John Murray

2015

This is a photo of my great-grandfather, Donald Bethune, who was a blacksmith at Waterloo Place,Tain. The house and smithy are in the background.

Donald Bethune, blacksmith, hoeing turnips

1900

Glenmorangie House Cadboll c 1933.My grandfather,Donald Munro, worked as a ploughman at Cadboll and for a time lived with his wife Helen (nee Bethune) in one of the cottages attached to Glenmorangie House. This photo shows his 3 children, Jack, Helen and my father Donald (DG)sitting outside the house wall. The boys don't look too happy in their Sunday Best!!

Munro children, Cadboll, 1933

1933 (3 comments)

Hilton School c 1930? My father Donald George Munro ( known as DG) is 4th left 2nd row, my uncle Jack ( known as Jackie) 2nd left standing front row, and my aunt Helen is the 2nd left little girl in the front row.

Hilton School circa 1930

1930 (3 comments)

John Graham Macdonald, governor of Easter Ross Union Poorhouse 1870/71 â€“ 1901.
Born circa 1833, Currie, Midlothian â€“ died 24 May 1903, Berwick on Tweed. Gave up his job and moved to live with his daughter Catherine in Berwick on Tweed when his wife Agnes who was matron died in May 1901. John was a baker before enlisting for 10 years as a private in The 1st Bengal fusiliers on the 2nd June 1852. In October 1860 he was injured in the left arm by a musket ball and returned to England as unfit for duty in June 1861 where he was awarded a Chelsea Out Pension of 9d a week. He became a warder at Edinburgh prison and married Agnes Kennedy the sister of one of his fellow officers. The couple had three children in Edinburgh before taking up their position in the poor house in 1870/71 where they had a further 4 children.

Photo by W Smith & Co, photographer, Tain

J.G Macdonald, governor, E.R. Union Poorhouse

2014 (2 comments)

Pupils being shown the skeleton of a bird by their teacher in a classroom in the old Tain Royal Academy. Late 1950s or early 1960s?

TRA1- science class

1960 (2 comments)

Tain Royal Academy football team c 1960.
Back Row:1,2,3,4,5,6,
Front Row:7,8,9,10,11,12.

TRA2 - football team

1960 (1 comments)

Tain Royal Academy hockey team c 1962.
Back Row: Muriel Stenhouse (Watson),2,3,4,5,6,7,
Front Row:8,9,10,11,12.

TRA3 - hockey team

1962 (3 comments)

Tain Royal Academy hockey team c 1959-1960.
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,
Front Row:7,8,9,10,11.

TRA4 - hockey team

1960 (2 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c 1960 taken in front of the old Academy.
Back Row: 1,2,3,
Middle Row: 4,5,6,7,8,9,
Front Row: 10, 11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18.

TRA5 - class photograph

1960 (2 comments)

Rector, Mr Robert Hay, with Tain Royal Academy pupils c.1960.
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17.
Front Row: 18,19,20,21, 22. Robert Hay, 23,24,25,26.

TRA6 - class photograph

1960 (4 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c. 1964
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,
Middle Row:9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,
Front Row:18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,

TRA7 - class photograph

1964 (8 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c 1960 taken in front of the old Academy.
Back Row:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
Middle Row:8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15
Front Row:16,17,18,19,20,21,22

TRA8 - class photograph

1960

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c 1960
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,
3rd Row(standing):7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14
2nd Row(sitting):15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,
Front Row:23,24,25,26,27.

TRA9 - class photograph

1960 (1 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c.1960 taken in front of the old Academy.
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6
3rd Row(standing):8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,
2nd Row (sitting):16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,
Front Row:24,25,26

TRA10 - class photograph

1960 (2 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c 1960 taken in front of the old Academy.
Back Row:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
Middle Row:8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15
Front Row(seated):16,17,18,19,20,21,22

TRA11 - class photograph

1960 (4 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c1966, taken at old Academy.
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
2ndRow:8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16
3rd Row:17,18,19,20,21,22,23
Front Row:24,25,26. John MacLeod,27,28.

TRA12 - class photograph

1966 (8 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c.1965 taken in front of the old academy.
Back Row:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,
2nd Row (standing):9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18. Sandy MacGregor,19,
3rd Row (sitting): 20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,
Front Row:29,30,31,32,33,34.

TRA13 - class photograph

1965 (3 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c 1963
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,
Middle Row:10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19. John MacLeod,20
Front Row(sitting):21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30.

TRA14 - class photograph

1963

Tain Royal Academy teachers c. 1964
Back Row(standing) 1.Elizabeth Campbell(cardigan),2(man wearing glasses),3. Jack Paterson, 4. Neil MacArthur, 5. Mr Taylor, 6. John MacLeod, 7, 8. Bill Beaton, 9. Mr Mackay, 10. Sandy Leitch, 11. Andrew Melvin, 12, 13. Eric McDermid, 14,
Front Row(sitting):15, 16. Mrs Davis, 17. Connie ?, 18. Rector Robert Hay, 19. Miss MacLeod, 20. Miss Sheila Watson, 21. Mrs Crowther.

TRA15 - teachers photograph

1964 (12 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c 1960 taken in front of the old Academy
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,
Middle Row (standing):7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16
Front Row(sitting): 17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24.

TRA16 - class photograph

1960 (1 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c.1966 taken in front of the old Academy. Rector Arthur Smyth is standing on the left.
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5. Hugh Skinner, 6,7,
2nd Row: 8,9,10. Anne MacLeod (Christie), 11,12,13,14,15,
3rd Row:16. Rector Arthur Smyth, 17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,
4th Row(sitting):27,28,29,30,312,32,33,34,
Front Row:35,36,37,38,39,40,41.

TRA17 - class photograph

1966 (4 comments)

Tain Royal Academy football team 1959-60
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,
Front Row:8,9,10,11,12,13.

TRA18 - football team 1959-60

1959 (3 comments)

Tain Royal Academy class photograph c 1960 taken in front of the old Academy. Rector Robert Hay stands at the front of the class.
Back:1.
2nd Row(boys):2,3,4,5,6,7,8(in front of boy with glasses),9,10,11,12
3rd Row (girls)13,14,15,16,17,18,19,
Front Row:20,21,22,23. Rector Robert Hay, 24,25,26.

TRA19 - class photograph

1960

Tain Royal Academy football team 1958-59 taken in old Academy grounds.
Back Row:1,2,3,4,5,6,7 (teacher)
Front Row:8,9,10,11,12,13.

TRA20 - football team 1958-59

1958 (3 comments)

Tain Royal Academy football team 1960-61 taken in the grounds of the old Academy.
Back Row: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7(teacher), 8
Front Row: 9,10,11,12,13,14.

TRA21 - football team 1960-61

1960 (2 comments)

The photo is of the staff of Ardgay Post Office (Ardgay1) taken around 1906 just after the building was completed. The original Post Office in the village was situated at the Poplars Farm.
As far as we know the staff are as follows:
Back row left to right: Mr Ellis (local businessman at the time and owner of the PO and other new buildings in the village), David Ross (by-name - Collins), Donald MacGregor (Daisybank), 'Humpy' Duff, Hugh Ross (Ivy Cottage), Tom Ross (Ardgay Hill), Robert Ross (Oldtown-brother of Hugh), John and Bob Macgregor (Oldtown), Willie Ross (Airdens), Mr E.Taylor (Postmaster)
Front row: Miss Maclean (later became Mrs Tommy Matheson), Mrs Ellis, Miss Catherine M. MacDonald (later became Mrs Polson)

David Ross; the old postman with the white beard and stick; originally walked from Ardgay Post Office to Skibo Castle with Andrew Carnegie's mail!!

Ardgay Post Office c.1906

1906

I believe this picture shows my grandfather William Thomson together with his brother and three sisters probably taken around 1910. From left to right they are Mary (May); William; Janet (Jenny); Jane (Jean); James. Their parents Alexander and Mary Thomson ran the Railway Hotel from 1908 until 1927 having previously run the Masons Arms in Dingwall. Alexander died in 1909 after which Mary , assisted by her sister Annie Cowper ran the hotel until she retired to Glasgow. May was Dux of Tain Royal Academy in 1922 however she died whilst still a student at Edinburgh University in 1924.
Robin Baker

The Thomson Children c.1910

1910

This picture was provided by Kate. Names have been provided by Jo Mackenzie. She suggests this picture was taken c.1950.

Back row l-r:David Vass from Shandwick, Roddie Mclennan (Mandy Rhind's dad), David (Tag's son), Archie MacRae, Iain MacPherson, John McAngus (Helen Fisher's brother)
Front row l-r: Johnny Vass,Frank Ross Andrew Ross (Rita's son), David Clark (Hilton,I think) , don't know the last one but think it could be Donnie Patience ,Hilton.

Kate came back with these names which agree up to the last two.What do you think?

Balintore Rovers FC (probably in the 1950s)
Back row, l-r: David Vass (Shandwick), Roddy Maclennan (Fearn), David (Skinner? Balintore), Archie Macrae (Balintore), Iain Macpherson (Balintore), John MacAngus (Balintore)
Front row, l-r: Johnny Vass (Balintore), Frank Ross (Hilton), Andrew Ross, James Robb (Shandwick), Donnie Vass (Shandwick )

Seaside Rovers, Balintore

1950 (2 comments)

Carnival Queen and Attendants
l-r: June Patience (now Skinner), Janette Wood (now Paterson), Dinah Wood (now Macdonald)

Carnival Queen and Attendants at Balintore

1950

Ken Drage (Relief Excise Officer), Rhoda Hood, Ivy Walker and Ron Simpson (Relief Excise Officer) at Hill of Tain on a picnic, Easter 1952.

Picnic on Tain Hill, Easter 1952

1952

Ron Simpson (Relief Excise Officer), Ivy Walker (Secretary to Sheriff's Clerk, Alec McTavish) and Rhoda Hood (a keen member of Tain Dramatic Society, along with her sisters, Connie and Dorothy) walking up Hill of Tain on a picnic outing Easter 1952. Stagcroft is visible behind the walkers. Ken Drage (Relief Excise Officer) is taking the photograph.

Going to Hill of Tain, Easter 1952

1952

Photo taken approximately 1955 - 1956. The occasion could be the recognition for years of service with the Post Office by Hugh Grant or it may be marking his retirement.
Front Row: ? , Post Master, Post Mistress, Post Master from Dingwall, ? .
2nd Row from Right to Left: Far right John B. Shivas, Margaret Ross,
Bertie Macdonald, Elizabeth Macmillan, Joyce Allen,

Tain Post Office and GPO Staff

1965 (2 comments)

Approximate Year Photo Taken 1955 - 1956
Occasion: Recognition for Years of Service or Retirement for Hugh Grant.
Post Master from Dingwall shaking hands with Hugh Grant.
Left to Right: ?, Hugh Grant, John B. Shivas, Post Master from Dingwall,
Bertie Macdonald.

Tain Post Office Retirement/Long Service

1965 (5 comments)

This photograph shows Tain Royal Academy Orchestra in 1966/7. Violin tuition was introduced the previous year. The names provided by Gregor Laing are as follows:
Back row from left
? Grant, Alisdair Williamson, Gordon Forbes, Ian Stewart, George Mackenzie, ?, Ian Macgregor, Gregor Laing, Peter Johnstone, Trish Gardiner.
Middle
Edith Mackay, Joyce Brewster, Stefan Pater, Robin Richardson, Kay Sutherland, Valerie Sutherland.
Front.
Liz Campbell, Oona Ross, ?, ?, Hilda Porter, Agnes Gardiner, Sheila ?, Audrey Campbell

Can anyone fill in the missing names?

Tain Royal Academy Orchestra 1966/7

1966 (14 comments)

This picture was taken at harvest time on one of the Arabella holdings in 1946. Mrs Jean Macdonald (nee Ross) is seen with her sister Molly (married name Ferguson) to her left , her daughter Margaret (later Macleod) on her right and surrounded by a group of prisoners of war who were helping with the harvesting. In 1919 the Land Settlement (Scotland) Act extended the powers of the Scottish Board of Agriculture & Fisheries so they could buy farms and divide them as appropriate into small holdings which returning forces men could take up. This led to the sub-division of some former large farms, including in Easter Ross, in the 1920s & 1930s. The Arabella small holdings were part of this scheme. Other places in Easter Ross where Dept. of Agriculture small holdings were created were - the Arboll area near Inver; and an area near Fearn.Local resident Ian Wallace and Tain & District Museum are currently working on a project about the Arabella area in general and the holdings in particular. If anyone has any information about these or any other similar holdings in Easter Ross please contact us at info@tainmuseum.org.uk

POWs helping at Arabella

1946 (1 comments)

Although not a native of Tain, Ronnie Duncan was a well known Tain personality and lived most of his life in Tain. He is seen here plying his trade as an electrician, repairing one of the early TV sets in Donnie Shivas's workshop which was on King Street. He was a keen golfer and was for a time Secretary of Tain Golf Club. a member of Lodge St Duthus and amateur poet.
This image was scanned from one of George Hamilton's slides - another local personality and businessman. It was probably taken in the late 1950s/early 1960's.

Ronnie Duncan, Electrician

1960 (2 comments)

We believe this picture of a float was constucted by the Tain Scouts as part of the Tain Carnival of c1946/7. They are obviously making a social/political commentary. In the background is the old Co-op stores at the top of King Street, now occupied by Mr. Shafi's drapery business. Attached to this building on the left we can see the old bakehouse now long gone. This bakehouse was, among others, owned at one time by James Robertson, baker, who was Provost of Tain 1921-24. The last private baker to use it was Alexander before it was taken over by the Co-op.

Scout's Float, Tain Carnival, 1946/7

1946 (1 comments)

John Mackay (1842-1913), seen in the garden of his home at Harfield House in 1909, was, we believe, a Road Surveyor in Tain. He also previously lived at Aldie House.

John Mackay, Hartfield House

1909

This picture, possibly taken in the 1950s shows four well known Tain businessmen enjoying a relaxing game of cards. George Hamilton had a draper's busines, first in the High Street, then in King Street (where Brambles Coffee Shop is today). Hector (

Canasta Party

1950 (8 comments)

This is taken from a slide by George Hamilton and shows Alistair Macdonald in his Provost's robe posing in the Council Chamber. He was Tain's Provost from 1954 till 1958 and was proprietor of the Tain Laundry and Lemonade Works, hence the nickname

Provost Alistair Macdonald - The Soda King

1956

This picture shows the Governor and Matron (Mr & Mrs John Fraser) and two other staff outside the central house around which the Easter Ross Union Poorhousewas built. It was completed in 1850. ( Prior to the the 1843 Scottish Poor Law, Parochial Boards had organised poor relief and made decisions as to who received it and how much.) Staff consisted of a Governor, a Matron, and Medical Officers and Servants. The number of the latter two varied. Most of the food, an entirely vegetarian diet was grown on land (eventually amounting to 21 acres) owned by the Easter Ross Union. This part is now a private home and the rest of the buildings have been demolished. See also Picture #407

Easter Ross union Poorhouse (Arthurville)

1910 (1 comments)

Another picture from the Easter Ross Union Poorhouse - see also Picture #406 Our information says c 1910 but this may be an earlier photograph. It shows a row of staff at the back with some of the residents in the two front rows. The number of inmates rose from about 32 at the 1841 Census to 78 by the 1891 census going down again to about 40 in 1901. As can be seen, residents varied in age from babes in arms up to 70+. Sometimes there were whole families staying there at a time and there might be up to about a dozen or more of school age. They came mainly from the parishes of Easter Ross but occasionally from further afield. On later death certificates (1920s) the address is given as 20 Scotsburn Road instead of the Easter Ross Union Poorhouse.

Arthurville (Poorhouse) Residents

1910 (2 comments)

This dramatic picture shows Neil D Forbes' garage going up in flames c1950, perhaps earlier. Given the close proximity of the petrol pumps the consequences could have been very serious. It was situated near the foot of Scotsburn Road and part of the concrete base on which the pumps stood can still be seen beside the pavement where the flower bed is close by.
The picture also shows part of the wall which surrounded

Garage Fire, Scotsburn Road

1950 (3 comments)

In the Aldie Burn forest area a few hundred yards north of the ruins of Culpleasant and off the track leading to the ruin of Causewayend (GR 742798), a small granite gravestone bears the following inscription –

GEORDIE/ THE FAITHFUL FRIEND AND COMPANION/ FOR ELEVEN YEARS OF JOHN DEWAR/ KILLED BY A ROAD HOG NEAR PERTH/ 9TH AUG. 1928/ SERVED WITH THE 3RD BAT. THE CAMERONIANS/ 1917-18 For further information about John Dewar see Picture #297

Geordie's Grave

2008

There is a brass plaque in the St Duthus CollegiateChurch in Tain which bears the following inscription, “To the glory of God and in undying memory of Dr. Elizabeth Ness Macbean Ross who voluntarily gave her life during the European War, to help the typhus stricken Serbian soldiers and died in the Military Hospital, Krasgujevtz, Serbia, 14th February, 1915. This tablet has been erected, and hospital beds endowed in Serbia, by public subscription, in remembrance of the noble life and sacrifice of one whose home was for many years in Tain.”

Elizabeth Macbean Ross qualified as MB and Ch.B at Glasgow University in 1901. For most of her home life was spent in Tain. Not content with being one of the few qualified women doctors of her day, this remarkable woman had a varied, albeit fairly short, career much of it pursued under her own steam.

She is seen here in naval uniform during her spell as a ship's surgeon. For more information on this remarable lady, see the Clan Ross Section of our website.

Dr Elizabeth Ness Macbean Ross

1910

William Tavish Mactavish (b. 1845, d. 1915) was a solicitor in Tain. He was the son of Alexander Mactavish, solicitor in Inverness. This picture was taken by William Smith, photographer in Tain, probably c1900-1910. Mr Mactavish is shown here with his wife (seated) and 3 sisters, the Misses Humphrey. Mrs. Mactavish was also a Humphrey. William's son Alexander (Alick) carried on his father's practice in Tain. See Picture #400.

Mr & Mrs W T Mactavish

1900

Alexander (Alick) Mactavish, seen here teeing off on the first tee at Tain Golf Club, was the solicitor son of Willaim T Mactavish, also solicitor in Tain (see Picture #399). This picture may have been taken in the 1920's when his prowess as a golfer was at its height. He was Secretary of the club from 1934-1952, Captain in 1929 and President 1957-58. Along with one or two other low handicappers of that time , he was one of the club's characters who saw no need for expensive golf equipment but played in his normal working clothes.

Alick Mactavish Tees off at Tain

1925 (1 comments)

Provost William Ross is seen here congratulating Grace Ross on the occasion of her 90th Birthday. They are standing in the doorway of her house, Kilrenny, in Queen Street.

Provost Ross, who had a jewellry shop in Tain, is holding the famous hat which he always wore earning him the nickname of

Mrs. Grace Ross, Kilrenny

Date unknown (2 comments)

This large granite boulder lies near Glenmorangie Distillery on the left hand side of the A9 road going north from Tain. It had been carried to this spot during the Ice Age and left behind when the ice melted. As you can see, it bears the inscription,

The Walter Scott Stone, Morangie, Tain

Date unknown (2 comments)

We hope that someone can help us identify the people in this image of an unknown family group. All we know is that it was taken in Tain in 1901. Wendy Atkinson who owns the original photograph has given us the following information which may or may not be related to the people in the photograph

Her grandmother, Joanna Ross Macdonald, was born in Tain and her great grandfather was a Hugh Ross Macdonald. Hugh was the son of a William Macdonald and Elizabeth Ross. William had a drapery business in Tain before he died in 1835. Wendy's mother spent her childhood holidays in Tain.

Family Group, Tain, 1901

1901 (4 comments)

Photo of Dr Elizabeth Ness Macbean Ross in Bakhtiari costume taken in about 1909. She was born in Tain in 1878 and studied medicine at Glasgow University graduating in 1901. For several years she was the local doctor on Colonsay and Oronsay and left in 1907 to go to Iran. She worked with the Bakhtiari tribe in the Zagros Mountains in the west of Iran, with long periods out of contact with other Europeans, and wrote a book about her time there. She worked her way home from Iran as a ship's doctor, srudied tropical medicine in London, went to Japan on the Glenlogan as the first woman doctor on a liner and died of typhus in 1915 while working as a military doctor in Serbia. She is buried there at Kragujevatz.

Dr Elizabeth Macbean Ross in Bakhtiari costume

1909

Inspite of the double exposure and the large crack this photograph (probably taken in the 1920's) is a fine record of an interesting by-gone scene. Donnie Shivas's uncle (known as

Double exposure - Royal Hotel / Sturd

1925

This photo of Balnagown staff was taken in 1890 with part of the castle as a backdrop. it shows 3 footmen , 8 housemaids, the head Housekeeper, Mrs Barogain (far left), and the Butler Mr James Allan (far right). The photo was donated to the museum by Mrs Cleverley, Alness, daughter of the Butler.

Staff in front of Balnagown Castle

1890 (4 comments)

Lealty House was opposite Ardross Castle and was occupied by the Munro family till 1848, when they agreed to exchange it for Rockfield, near Portmahomack at the request of Sir Alex. Matheson of Ardross, presumably because he did not want anyone living in such close proximity to the castle. This photo was taken in !921 when members of the Munro family were revisiting their old home. By 1985 it had no roof and the fairly extensive adjoining steadings had been destroyed. See also Picture #192 - Finlay Munro and the Lealty Stone

Lealty House

1921 (1 comments)

This photograph of Tain Pipe Band was taken during their first outing after the war at the Victory Parade on Tain Links in June, 1946.

Back Row, L to R - Pipe Major, S Innes; Duncan Mackenzie; Kenneth Stewart; George Ross; William Morrison; Christopher Skinner; George Robertson;
Front Row, L to R - Norman Mackenzie; Alex Macdonald; Lachlan Gallie; Frank Birnie.

Tain Pipe Band, 1946

1946 (3 comments)

The above watercolour was probably painted sometime during the 1920-30s, possibly by a pupil or teacher of the then Royal Academy of Tain as the contributor's aunt was an Art teacher there during the period c1915-45. If anyone knows anything about this picture, in particular the person (C Johnston) who painted it, please get in touch.

Watercolour from Tain by C Johnston

1925 (2 comments)

This Scottish Country Dancing class was run by Agnes Macrae.
Back Row L to R - Wilson Davidson, Tina Cormack, Rosemary Munro (Mackenzie), Henry Sharp, Jess Dunbar, Nellie Murray, Jim Ross, Katy Sharp, Joyce Allan, Elizabeth MacMillan
Front Row L to R - Jana Mackay. Agnes Macrae. Margaret Fox, Elizabeth Macdonald, Dolly Macdonald, Cathy Carmichael, Betty MacMillan.

Tain Country Dancing Class

Date unknown

This relatively harmless looking gentleman called William Grant, a sailor from Portmahomack, is reputed to have cut a cross (X) on an old lady's forehead because he blamed her for poor catches. He sibsequently ended up in jail in Tain.

Old Portmahomack Sailor

Date unknown

This scene from the kitchen in the Duthac Centre, Tain, shows members of Tain Over 60's Committee who are about to serve turkey and trimmings to Over 60's club members eagerly awaiting in the adjoining lesser town hall. With them are professional chef, Raymond Cameron, (striped apron)and his amateur

Tain Over 60's Christmas Lunch c1978

1978 (2 comments)

Town Clerk, Hugh Munro, (to the left) and Provost Hay are pictured checking through the details of the programme for the 9th Centenary Celebrations in 1966.

Hugh Munro and Bob Hay

1966

Pictured inside Tain Laundry Dry Cleaning Department are (right) proprietor Alastair Macdonald and manager, Douglas Walker. Mr Macdonald had previously owned a lemonade factory in Tain and was known as the

Douglas Walker and Alastair Macdonald

1966 (5 comments)

This formidable group of Tain Lady golfers taken outside the clubhouse possibly around 1960 is made up as follows:-
Back L to R - Rachel Ross (mother of Ian

A Bevy of Lady Golfers

1960 (1 comments)

Shown here outside the Parish Church in Queen Street are (L to R) Miss Jessie Stewart, Mrs Tibbie Jones and Mrs Chrissie Fraser. The occasion may have been the wedding of Anne Holmes (Baxter). Mrs Fraser was the the mother of John Fraser (of garage and drama fame), mother-in-law of Joyce Fraser. Mrs Jones was John Fraser's sister. Jessie Stewart lived in Scotsburn Road.

Three Grand Old Ladies

Date unknown (3 comments)

This photograph of a cartoon appears on the front of a visiting card produced by Tain photographer William Smith. The sign on the building to the right seems to say

Cartoon characters

1890

Alex Morrison of Morrison's, Tain, constuction company, and John Fisher Ross (Area Manager, Morrison's) are pictures with the sun dial donated by Alex Morrison for the newly constructed Rose Garden. The garden was created as part of Tain's 9th Centenary celebrations in 1966.
Picture, courtesy of the Scottish Field magazine.

Presentation of Sun Dial, Rose Garden, 1966

1966 (2 comments)

Charles James Embleton, seen here with his father, George Embleton, served on HMS Exeter as a stoker while it was engaged in the Battle of the River Plate against the German ship the Graf Spee during WWII. The Embleton family lived in Fountain Road, Tain. Charlie, as he was known, was later presented with a silver tea service and gold wristlet watch from the town to commemorate his part in such an epic incident. The tea service was returned to the town a few years ago and is currently in the museum's keeping.

Stoker C J Embleton, RN

1940

Murdo Mackenzie was born in Rhamore, Edderton in 1850, son of a small tenant farmer on the Balnagown Estate. He was one of many Scots who took apart in the great cattle rearing industry in the Great Plains of North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some merely became cowboys but others played a leading role in the large cattle companies, a number of which were registered and organised from Scotland. Murdo featured in several associations but is best known as the manager of the giant Matador Land & Cattle Company based in Texas. He held this post from 1891 to 1911 and again from 1922 to 1937. His two sons and a nephew were also involved with this company. More information about this interesting subject and Murdo's part in it can be found in

Murdo Mackenzie, "Cattle King"

1920 (12 comments)

This is one of several views we have of the house owned by the Anderson family in South Bonar. The Andersons owned a sawmill, the pier, local fishings and held land in the area. This picture shows Mrs Anderson with her daughter Mina who became Mrs Fergus McLeod of the Balnagown Arms in Ardgay. See Picture #55

Anderson's House, South Bonar

Date unknown (5 comments)

The Grove is situated off Cunarder Lane (which links the High Street and Kirksheaf Road). This picture was taken before part of the grounds were used for the existing Post Office car park. It is currently owned by the Arthur family. Shona Arthur's father, Alex Macleod (

The Grove, Tain

Date unknown (22 comments)

We think this picture dates to 1914-15. The sign says

Williamson's Show Rooms, Petley Place, Tain

1914 (18 comments)

This picture we think was taken late 1950's early 1960's.
Back L to R - Jim Hay, Alfie Gray (Scoutmaster), Duncan Mackenzie, David Geekie
Front L to R - David Munro (father of Neil Munro, Sports Shop), Billy Grant (Grant's bakery).

Tain Scouts c1960

1960 (3 comments)

Rev. MacAlpine (left) and Rev. Kinsella conducting a Dedication Service on the opening of the New St Duthus Cemetery, adjacent to the bowling green. Also in the picture are Provost George Cameron and Councillor George Ferguson who himself later became Provost. On the right, with his back to the camera, is Angus Macleod, reporter.

New St. Duthus Cemetery, Dedication

1962 (2 comments)

The Queen Mother is seen conversing with Mr & Mrs Rhind (parents of Councillor Alasdair Rhind) in Tain High Street during her visit to Tain for the opening of the Dornoch Bridge. She is being escorted by the Lord Lieutenant Sir Roderick Stirling. Mrs Rhind was a very active participant in Easter Ross affairs.

Queen Mother in Tain, 1991

1991

Photographed on the steps of The Grove in Tain are some of the Tain Amateur Dramatic Society after winning the Rose Bowl trophy at the Scottish Community Drama Association Division Finals c1956/7.
Back L to R - Ian MacGregor, Elma Stenhouse , Bert Halliday
Front L to R - Wattie Louden, Connie Hood, Ian Chisholm

Tain Amateur Dramatic Society's Winning Team

1956 (2 comments)

Peter Alexander Cameron Mackenzie became the Count de Serra Largo. After coming to Tain, he lived in Tarlogie House and both he and his wife took an active part in the life of the Tain area. They are seen here with their children - Cecil, Percy, Lionel, Raoul, Zsa Zsa, Maimie and Edward. This is one of a number of photocopies from the family album given to the museum by a grandson of the Count.

Count de Serra Largo & Family, Tarlogie

Date unknown (4 comments)

This William Smith studio photo would probably be taken around the end of the 19th/ beginning of the 20th Century. It shows 3 generations of Chisholms -

"Old Chisholm, the baker", Tain

Date unknown (17 comments)

Gordon Maitland (of the Maitland firm of architects) is seen here with Marian Mackenzie at the junction of Quarry Road and Manse Street (before Craighill Terrace was built). Ms Mackenzie was known as

Gordon Maitland and "Babe" Sheriff

Date unknown

The only information we have about this well is what is said on the front of the post card on which it appears i.e.

Dr Aird's Well, Kilmuir Easter

Date unknown (4 comments)

Harry Munro grew up in Ardross but was a policeman in Tain during the late 1960's and early 1970's. He was known as

Harry The Horse

1980 (4 comments)

This Golden Wedding celebration was held in the Hayes Hall, Invergordon. The couple went to live at Cullisse Farm on Hogmany, 1949, where Pat worked until early retirement due to illness, after which they continued to live at the farm. Pat died in January 2004.

Golden Wedding, Pat & Lalla Swanson

1999 (3 comments)

The picture shows Pat Swanson of Culisse Farm with one of the farm horses, either Cherry or Queen in the early 1950's. See also Picture #326

Horse and Cart, early 1950's

1952

Here we see some of the young talent around in the Fearn area in the 1960's. The occasion is either a Youth Club or School Dance taking place in Fearn Hall.
L to R - James Tate, ?, Walter Munro.

Youth Dance, Fearn, 1964/5

1964

Murdo MacFarlane was a teacher at Hilton School during the 1960's. He is seen here with an unidentified pupil near the front entrance to Hilton School. A few years after this picture was taken, he emigrated to Canada.

Murdo MacFarlane, Hilton School

1964 (7 comments)

This shows a paper conservator working on a document found at the bottom of a box in the cellar of the museum store. The document, which was a list of the magistrates and councillors of Tain from 1680 to 1720, was badly damaged at the edges and too fragile to unfold. It was conserved using a new technique in which a paper solution was bonded to the damaged edges by vacuum suction, which meant that none of the surviving writing was obscured. When conservation was complete the document was stable and robust enough to be handled and transcribed. The transcription is available in the Tain burgh records section of the document library on the main website. The conservation work was funded by the Tain Common Good Fund and the Scottish Museums Council.

Conservator at work

2003

Card produced by William Smith in 1855 advertising his latest photographic service. He was pretty up to date - the collodion process was introduced in 1850. He mentions having built a glasshouse. Unfortunately we do not know where this was, although his studio was right opposite the building that is now the museum on Castle Brae.

William Smith's business card

1855

The late, great, and dearly loved founder of the museum, Rosemary Mackenzie, on one of her Tuesday mornings in the museum store. We spent a lot of time laughing.

Rosemary Mackenzie

2002 (6 comments)

Appearing in this group of senior pupils are:-

Back Row L to R - Ian Lennox, Roddie Macleod, Duncan MacLennan, James Fraser.
Middle Row - Jenny Hamilton, Anna Macleod, Heather Denoon, Lewis Fraser, Helen Campbell.
Front Row - Christie MacLennan, Jean Nicol, Margaret Hamilton, Margaret Mackay, Jean Hay, Shona Macleod, Dorothy ross.

Tain Royal Academy, Classes 5 & 6, 1948

1948 (1 comments)

Back Row L to R - Jenny Hamilton, Margaret Patience, Lisbeth Urquhart, Jessie Millar, Jean Hay, Evelyn Clunis (Capt.) Ena Mackintosh, Jean Nicol, Shona Macleod, Lewis Fraser.
Middle Row - Cissie MacLennan, ?, Margaret Hamilton, Audrey Holmes, Bharrie Macleod, Jean Ross, Morna Hay.
Fron Row - Christine Fraser, Helen MacGregor, ?, Anne Graham, ?Eliz. Buchanan.

1st Tain Coy. Girl Guides, 1946

1946 (5 comments)

George, with his wife Belle, had a draper's business in King Street, Tain. He was also a keen mason and one of the founder members of Tain and District Museum. He is seen here enjoying an outing to Portmahomack with a fellow resident of Duthac House. Tain.

George Hamilton and Mrs Oliver

Date unknown (1 comments)

Dr Horne was a well known and respected doctor in the Tain practice in the days before the current health centre was built. She is seen here relaxing in her home in Scotsburn Road.

Dr. Marion Horne

Date unknown (3 comments)

Miss Rosa succeeded as Chief of Clan Ross on the death of her elder sister in 1957. She was born at Balnagore, Fearn. Her grandmother was heiress to the line of both Pitcalnie and Ross. Miss Rosa who subsequently took the name of Ross along with her family name of Williamson, died at her home, Ord House in Tain, at the age of 99 years on 24th March, 1968.

She retained all the old family documents, most of which are now in Edinburgh, and was the last of the Pitcalnie Rosses. On her death, the Chiefship and armorial dignities passed to the house of Shandwick.

Miss Rosa Williamson Ross, Pitcalnie

1961 (3 comments)

We have no actual date for this line-up of four horsemen with their cart load of logs. It could possibly be the 1930's or even later. The rolling stock behind the carts includes 5 open trucks, a cattle truck, a closed van, a gurrd's van and one passenger coach. In the middle background is the slaughter house. The names John Ross, carter, and Davie Cowie are written on the back of this photgraph but with no indication where they are positioned.

Goods yard, Tain Station

1935

These proud looking lads make up a Tain Juvenile team who in 1947 won the Pieraccini Cup. This cup was provided by Leo Pieraccini, the founder of The Chocolate Shop, confectionery and cafe, in Tain High Street. ( See Picture #253 ) It was one of many things Leo did to encourage the local youngsters to participate in sport.

Back L to R - Simon Urquhart, Rod Macleod, Billy Skinner, Derek Young, Gregor Munro
Front L to R - Jim Hay, J Corbett, David Mitchell, Gordon Mitchell, John Ross, Graham Munro

Tain Juveniles Football Team, 1947

1947 (7 comments)

This line up shows the players, coaches and officials who were part of Tain St Duthus FC set up in 1947.

Back L to R - Lachie Gallie, Jock Corbett, Neil Ross, Hamish Reid, Hugh Aird, Peter Henderson, Archie Forsyth, Ronnie Stalker, Harry Sutherland
Front L to R - George Douglas, Hamish sutherland, Gordie Matheson, Allan Dundas, Uisdean Ross, Hugh Macdonald

St Duthus FC, 1947

1947 (1 comments)

This picture of football playing Easter Ross Veterans gives a good illustration of the old leather football and boots used in days gone by.

Back L to R - Ken Moir, Wm Ross, Joe Ross, Geo. Macdonald, R Garrow, H Mackenzie
Front L to R - W Macpherson, Ron Corbett, D Beaton, J Tarrel, W Budge

Easter Ross Veterans FC, July 1949

1949

Tain Silver Band

Tain Silver Band, 1946

1946

This picture depicts Lawrence Benson surrounded by his Harem in a

Tain Carnival Concert, 1949

1949

This wonderful action photo shows Mrs Jessie Mackay just pipping Mrs Sybil Findlay in the Married Women's Race, part of the Carnival activities on the Links in 1949. How many of their modern counterparts could manage to look so athletic and perform in such cumbersome clothing?

Married Women's Race, Tain 1949 Carnival

1949

This group of Highland Dancers took part in The Tain 1949 Carnival. It includes Shirley Strachan - bottom right - and illustrates how both costumes and hairstyles have changed since then.
Full list - Back L to R - Alix Tulloch, Isobel Ross, Joan mcLean, Etta Munro. Front L To R - Mary Mackintosh, Shirley Strachan.

Group of Highland Dancers, 1949

1949 (5 comments)

A John Shivas, Land Surveyor and Auctioneer, appears frequently in the Burgh Accounts from c1880 into the early 20th century (later accounts are held elsewhere than the museum). It seems highly likely that the John Shivas shown in the photograph is the one referred to in our accounts. He was employed by the burgh for tasks such as

John Shivas

1905 (4 comments)

Captain John B W Dewar lived in Harperfield House, Sandilands, Lanarkshire, but frequently came to Tain and had many associations with the area. He would stay in the Royal Hotel but also either at Culpleasant or nearby when taking part in shooting. In this vicinity, there is a grave complete with granite gravestone, dedicated to

Captain J B W Dewar

1925

This picture shows four gentlemen all sharing the surname Munro, although not necessarily related. They are - L to R - James, John, Robert (Lord Alness, MP and Lord Advocate), W T Munro (Town Clerk).

Four Munros

1920

This much revered and long lived citizen of Tain was born in Rosskeen in 1813 but moved to Tain in 1830 and remained till he died in 1911. He was a leading public figure both in religion and in public life, being a councillor for 42 years and a magistrate for 32 years.

Bailie Alexander Wallace

1900

Mrs Munro (maiden name, Burnett) was the mother of Tain Museum founder Rosemary Mackenzie. She was the daughter of the scupltor who made the bust of Kenneth Murray, part of the Murray Monument in the High Street. She came to Tain as an art teacher and married W J Munro who was County Clerk.

Mrs W J Munro, Alderbrae

1920

This view shows, to the left middle, the cemetery around the ruined chapel of St Duthus: to the right middle the golf clubhouse. The buildings in the centre background are chicken hatcheries owned by Commander Reggie Stone. and beyond that are the rifle ranges (the

View looking NE from Tain

1950

C W Ross(Charlie) had a stationers and booksellers business. It was in what is now part of Ross the Chemist (to the left hand side as you enter). He lived in Esther Place. He was also the Registrar for Tain and a keen photographer. He produced many post cards from his own photographs. Any of the images in this image library with the catalogue number 0152 are taken from an album of his photographs. His youngest and only surviving son, Bruce Ross, lives in Perth, Australia.

CW Ross

1940 (6 comments)

This newspaper photograph shows the scene inside the old Tain Academy grounds during the 1948 Tain Carnival when Lewis Fraser was Carnival Queen (see also Picture #11). The gates of the academy can be seen in the background. The Heralds at the head of the procession are Archie Faulkner and wattie Louden.

Tain Carnival Crowd Scene

1948

Pat Swanson thinks this ph0to showing Benny Bremner sprinkling slipperine on the floor in preparation for the Nigg Badminton Club Dance, was taken c1963. For those not familiar with the practice, slipperine was, as the name suggests, used to make the dance floor slippy. The art was to sprinkle sufficient to allow the dancers to glide across the floor but not too much as to be dangerous.

Benny Bremner, Nigg

1963 (5 comments)

According to Pat Swanson, the stores counter at Tain Motors was used as a bar for the employees New Year holiday break up celebrations. Davie Ross was the car salesman and Tommy Rostock, the Garage Manager. He did not say to what extent the two are posing for the camera. If not, it looks as if the photo was taken well on into the celebrations.

Davie Ross and Tommy Rostock, New Year, 1966

1966 (2 comments)

This photograph of the

Tattie picking, Culisse

1956 (4 comments)

Pat Swanson performing in his school concert in 1957

School Concert

1957 (1 comments)

This group of senior pupils are photographed in the school grounds along with the headmaster, Mr Hutt, and an unknown lady teacher.

Senior class, TRA c1910?

1910 (3 comments)

This group of councillors are posing with the Forth Railway Bridge in the background during a fact finding trip related to housing development.
L to R: Mr Cowie (Burgh Surveyor); ? Ross; Harry Miller )Regional Councillor); Bobby Sellar; Rev. Kinsella; Donald Davidson (Town Clerk); George Ferguson (Provost).

Tain Councillors

1960 (2 comments)

An early photo of Scotsburn lodge in Scotsburn Road. The gentleman standing at the doorway is John Gallie.

Scotsburn Lodge c 1907

1907

This photo of Andrew Carnegie, the millionaire and philanthropist and one time owner of Skibo Castle, was taken aboard his yacht somewhere in the Cromarty Firth.

Andrew Carnegie

1910

This is a lovely photo of a group of barefooted boys playing about in the garden of a large house, possibly Balnagown Castle, and being closely observed by a passing family or staff member. The picture doesn't have the photographer's name on it but it may have been taken by William Smith. As well as being Tain's photographer and stationer, he also started a Ragged Sabbath School in 1858 and was involved in running it for many years. The pupils were occasionally invited to Balnagown for tea as a treat.

Children's games

1890 (2 comments)

Photo of a smartly dressed young man leaning against a boat while lighting his cigarette. Location unknown - possibly west coast? Unfortunately the registration letters on the boat are illegible. This is one of several photos of the same occasion, which seems to have been an outing with a lady friend.

Young man by boat

1900

This picture was taken during a ceremony of planting a tree to commemorate King Edward VII's Coronation in the park below the churchyard. It shows a town council group (which includes A Ross; Provost Fowler; Baillie Gallie; Wm Ross; A MacDuff ross; Baillie Wallace) watched by a substantial crowd. This is a scene which is completely changed. The park is now overshadowed by trees and bushes and the thatched buildings in the background together with the building whose gable shows on the right hand side with its fine wall and arched gateway have all disappeared.

Planting King Edward VII's Coronation Tree

1902

This William Smith photograph of members of the Balnagown staff in the service of Sir Charles Lockhart Ross shows, on the left, a Mr Calder and, seated, the butler, James Allan. Also included is a Mr Munro (to the butler's left?) who is reputed to have later been murdered in America.

Balnagown Staff c1900

1900 (6 comments)

This group of four salmon fishers from Hilton are shown displaying an unusual catch - a giant sun fish whose normal habitat would be Pacific waters. This was caught by them at Dornoch in 1931. Does anyone know the identities of the fishermen?

Hilton Salmon Fishers

1931 (2 comments)

Belle-Anne MacAngus, mother of Dolly Macdonald, is seen here holding 6 speldings threaded on a spit through the

Belle-Anne MacAngus, curing fish

Date unknown (3 comments)

This group enthusiastically wielding forks,and rakes are as follows:-
L to R - Bert Macdonald; Hamish Ross, Alick Ferguson; ? Smith from Tarlogie; Jock Fraser; Mr Campbell; Thompson Smart; J Urquhart; W Douglas; T Tulloch; Ian Chisholm; Bob robertson; ?D Mackay; W Mackenzie; Ian Ross

Tain Public School, gardening class, 1937

1937

Edderton drama club taken at the drama festival at Tain. From left: Mary Bain, Andrew Dryden, Mrs Russell, Hugh

Edderton Drama Club

1966

Harry Munro and his family, who emigrated from the Tain area to Ontario in 1865. When Harry married Christina McBain in 1861 he was a wood saw miller at Hilton of Tain. Their two oldest children were born in Tain, the others in Canada.

The identities, left to right, are:
Back: Ann (Annie), Alexander (Alex), Margaret (Maggie)
Centre: Hugh, Harry Munro (Father), William (Will), Christina McBain
Munro (Mother), Joseph (Joe)
Front: Helen (Nell), Isabelle (Belle)

Harry Munro and family

1888

This was taken outside the Chocolate Shop, which my grandfather Leo Pieraccini ran, in 1932, and from left to right the subjects are;
Peggy Shearer; Hugh Duff; Nellie Findlay with Ida Donnachie; Leo Pieraccini; Bobby MacLean;

The Chocolate Shop

1932 (32 comments)

This photo of an early motor car was probably taken in Stafford Street, Tain near where Fox and McLean had their garage.
L to R - Morrison (banker); Dr Gilles; CW Ross; Baillie D Macleod; WJ Munro (Rosemary Mackenzie's father); Alex Forsyth.
Can anyone identify the make of car and verify the date?

1920's Motor car?

1920 (4 comments)

This firm was established in 1812. This photo taken in 1922 shows their High Street premises situated where the Royal Bank of Scotland building now stands replacing this building which was burnt down in 1957. ( see Picture #21) Wallace & Fraser continued in Castle Brae in a rather reduced form (in the building now occupied by Brown's Art Gallery). The array of goods in the windows give some idea of the

Wallace & Fraser, Ironmongers

1922 (10 comments)

Here we see John Ross of Aldie Mill demonstrating turning grain in October 1963. The mill eventually closed in 1971. It was renovated and opened in 1996 as a tourist attraction and operated as such for a few years before being converted into a house.

John Ross, Aldie Mill

1963 (1 comments)

Compared to Picture #249 the style of the windows and the clothing would suggest this photo shows the shop at a later date. There are also marks/holes in the stonework which could be where the fixtures shown in picture 249 were attached. The grills have also gone and the pavement appears to have been laid with Caithness flagstones. Note the much larger sign and the wicker hampers - probably awaiting collection and possibly containing clothes going off to Pullars for drying or cleaning. Although the sign is gone the shop is known to still have been a Pullars agent while trading under the name George Henderson.
the sign on the window is advertising

George Henderson, general draper c1910?

1910

Gordon Maitland (wearing the bowler hat) was one of the Maitland family of architects who were responsible for many of the fine buildings of Tain built in the latter part of the 19th and early part of the 20th Centuries. He was the grandson of the founder, Andrew Maitland, and worked in the business for over 20 years before leaving for Paris in the 1920's to take up sculpture. Also in this group, taken outside St Duthus Memorial Church is Dan Mackenzie (Dan

Gordon Maitland c1920?

1920

Tain Royal Observer Corps posing with awards won in 1957 - the Recognition Cup and the Written Exam Cup.
Back row L to R - Tom Ross; Billy Grant; Dan Patience
Middle row L to R - Isobel Ross; Margaret Robertson; David Robertson; Doris Ferguson; Mr Caginard; Rosemary Burgess; Billy Louden; Alex Tulloch; Ellen Macleod
Front row L to R Steven Burgess; Kenny Ferguson; James Fourbister

Tain Royal Observer Corps, 1957

1957 (1 comments)

This group of staff outside D Thomson & Co's workshop (in Scotsburn Road?) includes W Fraser and Andrew Ross, 3rd and 4th from left respectively.

D Thomson & Co, Tain

Date unknown (5 comments)

This photo of Tain character, Kirsty Macdonald was taken by David macleod in 1910. It is said she earned 2d a drill for hoeing turnips. The story is told that after being certified dead by Dr Kennedy that when the

Kirsty Macdonald, Ross Street, Tain

1910 (1 comments)

This picture was taken outside Wilhaven House, Portmahomack.

Standard car - driver D Mackay

Date unknown

This post card is postmarked

"Davie Gogie"

1906 (1 comments)

This Christmas post card incorporating these two Tain characters is postmarked

Colin "Clink" and "Rory Toe"

1905

This view of the Murray Monument which stands in Tain High Street was taken by Tain photographer, William Smith. The monument was erected in 1879 to the memory of Kenneth Murray of Geanies, a provost of Tain, by public subscription.

Murray Monument

1890 (2 comments)

The King's Causeway is said to have been built by the people of Tain for James IV when they heard he was coming barefoot on pilgrimage to the shrine of St Duthac. Most of the line followed by the causeway is now occupied by a more modern road surface but part of the original road was left out at a bend, the newer road taking a straighter course. The picture shows part of this being cleared by Tain Academy pupils (Alison Napier in the front middle) in the mid 1970's. Maps still mark part of the road which eventually joins up with Hartfield Road as

The King's Causeway

1975

Back Row - ?
Middle Row L to R - J Macmillan, Alex Ross, Beatrice Shand, Peggy Patience, Alex Skinner, Margaret Ross, Bertie Macdonald, Jim Macmillan, Morag Cattanach, Hugh Grant
Front Row L to R - Margaret Fox, Elizabeth Macmillan, Enid Tree, Mr Souter (Post Master). Cathana Ross, Lizzie Anderson

GPO & Telephone Exchange Staff

1945 (3 comments)

This view of the funeral procession for King Edward VII shows the procession marching down Tain High Street. Included in the group is the Scout troop with Hector Mackenzie the Scout leader (Mrs Bunty Fialka's Father).

Funeral Procession of King Edward VII, May 20,1910

1910

This shows the Edderton Dramatic Society who performed MacBeth. The play was produced by K.M.Cameron from Balblair in 1900. There were two Crans and five Airds in the production.

Dramatic Society, Edderton

1900

This postcard of the wedding of Dr James Tocher and Chrissie Ross was taken outside the St Duthus Collegiate church Tain.
The best man is David Ross (Chemist), one of the bridesmaids is Mary Mitchell (Wight) and the small boy is Raeburn Robertson.

Wedding, Dr Tocher.

1910

This picture postcard is of the wedding of George Hamilton and Isobel Sinclair. The bridesmaids are Margaret and Lily Sinclair.
Mr and Mrs Hamilton had a clothes shop in King Street for many years, where Brambles coffee shop is now.

Wedding of George Hamilton.

1925 (2 comments)

Can anyone give us any information on this wedding photo taken outside the Royal Hotel Tain?

Royal Hotel wedding.

1930 (1 comments)

This photo is of the St Duthus football team in 1963.
Back row L to R. Christopher Grant ,Sandy Sutherland, Ally Macgregor, Donnie Macleod, Charlie Ross, Gordon Mitchell, Jockie Urquhart, Jockie Stout,
Front row L to R. Aeneas Urquhart, Sandy Adams, Tom (?) Ross, Ernie Ross, Dan Findlay.

St Duthus football team 1963.

1963 (2 comments)

This photo is of the Laundry ladies football team.
Back row L to R. Florrie Duncan, Nellie Skinner, Nan Holmes, Lily Graham, Meg Ross, Annie Findlay.
Front row L to R. Alice Sellars, Nan Fraser, ? , Dora Johnstone, Maggie Michael.
The laundry was demolished and is now developed for housing.

Laundry Ladies football team.

1940 (2 comments)

This is the funeral of Commander Wolfe-Murray ( see Picture #214). Despite it being such a wet day a reasonably large number of the public have turned out to witness the cortege led by fair sized contingent of navy personnel, indicating that Commander Wolfe-Murray was held in high regard.

Naval Funeral

1930 (2 comments)

This is one of a number of portraits of interesting Tain characters taken by Tain photographer William Smith. Unfortunately we have no details about him other than his by-name.

Davie Blow

1870

Commander Philip Wolfe-Murray was a descendent of Wolfe of Quebec in Canada. He lived at Knockbreck House and wrote a book on wild fowling in Easter Ross. See also Picture #215

Commander Wolfe-Murray

1910 (2 comments)

We do not have the exact date of when this presentation took place in the Royal Hotel but it was while David Geekie was Provost so between 1945-49. The presence of Alastair Macdonald Proprietor) and Douglas Walker (Manager) suggests she was retiring from Tain Laundry.
L to R - Alf Gray, Minnie Gallie, Douglas Walker, Alastair W Macdonald, Mrs Macdonald, C MacLean (Tessie), Provost Geekie, June Geekie (later to become Mrs Douglas Walker), Mrs Geekie.

Presentation on retirement to Tessie MacLean

1947

This photo of club officials and others was taken outside the club house.
L to R - Bob Laing (Secretary), Mrs Mackie, Mrs Alex Fraser (Ladies' Captain), Mrs Perrins (Ardross, of Lee & Perrins fame), W J Munro (Captain, Rosemary Mackenzie's father), Andrew Mackie (Headmaster, TRA).

Club Officials, Tain Golf Club, 1928

1928 (1 comments)

We think this presentation of the Macdonald & Muir Highland Queen Pairs Trophy took place in either 1958 or 1959.
Back Row - Donald Strachan (baker), Gordon Smart (Manager, Glenmorangie distillery), (Macdonald & Muir Representative?)
Middle Row - Bob Beveridge (accountant), Bob Hislop (manager, Commercial Bank), Donnie Mackenzie (manager, Lochbroom grocery store), Dr Robin Graham
Front Row - Ian MacGregor (assistant manager, Glenmorangie), Andrew Gardiner (chemist), Neilie Robertson (barber), Bob Lindsay (manager, Co-op Drapery)

Highland Queen Pairs Presentation, Tain GC

1958 (2 comments)

We believe this rather fine elderly gentleman was a shepherd at Balcherry in the Fendom. Any further information will be welcome.

Old Gillanders, Fendom

1890 (1 comments)

John George Gallie was a

John George Gallie

1910 (16 comments)

This William Smith post card is taken from an oil painting by Fiddes Watt.
Alexander Wallace was born in Nonikiln, Rosskeen parish, in 1813. He came to Tain in 1830, was a councillor for 42 years, a magistrate for 32 years, a member of the Free Church for 68 years and a founder of Wallace & Fraser, Ironmonger. He died in Tain in 1911. It was said of him

Baillie Alexander Wallace

1880 (3 comments)

The picture for this Post Card showing a group of travelling people, possibly on The Links or the Fendom was taken by C W Ross.

Travelling Family

1910 (1 comments)

The couple are photographed in their living room surrounded by family photos and mementoes. Mr Munro was known as

Mr & Mrs Munro, Fendom

1920 (10 comments)

Inspector Cameron would have been employed by the Police Commissioners who were responsible for policing matters in the burgh. The Police Commissioners were mainly made up of burgh councillors and baillies and included the Provost and the Dean of Guild. They were abolished in 1900 when they and the Burgh Council were replaced by a single Town Council.

Inspector Cameron, Tain

1880 (7 comments)

The man with this fine team of horses is William Ross of Moor Farm. He was the winner in the Harness Class at the ploughing match held at North Glastullich in 1936. His was one of 70 pairs of horses on the field. William was the uncle of Alistair (

Ploughing Match, North Glastullich

1936 (3 comments)

The man sitting in the churchyard of Nigg Parish Church was a beadle called Jasper Vass. He is supposed to be pointing to what was known as the

The Parish Church, Nigg

1900 (3 comments)

The gentleman furthest left at the front with the large brass instrument is J Fraser (Coachbuilder) and the gentleman third from the right at the front is W Fraser (Cabinetmaker) also holding a brass instrument.
For further details of the Oddfellows see Picture #69

Tain Oddfellow's Band

1890 (1 comments)

The Lealty Stone was a

Finlay Munro and the Lealty Stone

1950

This post card was published by Urquhart, Dingwall and Tain. It is postmarked

Opening new Golf Course, Tain, 1911

1911

Back row - L to R - John Ross, Richard Hart, David Ross, John Skinner, Ian Macrae, Philip MacPherson, David McNicol
Middle Row - Barry Finlayson, Andrew Vass, Ian Marshall, Mary Munro, Margaret Christie, John Mackay, Kenneth Meek, Fraser Ross
Front Row - Anne Paul, Morma Sutherland, Catherine Mackenzie, Angelica Edwards, Elizabeth Macleod, Sheila Johnston, Gwendoline Smart

Class 3A, TRA 1963

1963 (3 comments)

This picture was taken outside the shop of D W Shivas electricians, which is now the premises of T G Smart.
L to R : Irene Christie, Margaret Macandie, John Murray, Mrs Gregory, Annella Mackenzie.

Shivas staff

1965 (1 comments)

This picture shows Irene Christie after being presented with the sports cup By Rev. A G Macalpine at the annual Tain Parish church Sunday school sports and picnic at Portmahomack. Included in the photo are L to R: Roy Urquhart, Billy Urquhart: Bart Henderson (with glasses): Sandy Macalpine (next to Mr Henderson: Elizabeth Macleod: ?.

Sunday School sports cup presentation

1958

This Post Card of Ardgay was published by James Moir, Chemist & Stationer, Bonar Bridge. It is postmarked

Ardgay

1946 (8 comments)

The ghillie in this photo, taken near Deanich Lodge in the early 1920's, is Hector Macleod (1860-1941), Great Grandfather of contributor, Ross Macleod. The figure in the doorway is Hector's youngest son - Ross's Grandfather. At the time Deanich was part of the Balnagown Estate but the area is now the Alladale and Deanich Estate.
See also Picture #179

Ghillie at Deanich Lodge

1920 (2 comments)

This Post Card has no details of the publisher and has no writing on the back. However someone has written

Invercharron House, Ardgay

1940 (22 comments)

Stereoscopic portrait photograph of Lady Ross of Balnagown with viewer, taken in about 1870. It consists of two images of Lady Ross taken from slightly different angles, mounted in an ornately carved wooden box with an integral viewer patented by Mascher of Philadelphia in 1852.

Lady Ross was Rebecca Barnes, the second wife of Sir Charles William Augustus Lockhart Ross and mother of Sir Charles Henry Augustus Frederick Lockhart Ross, the last of the Lockhart Rosses. After her husband died in 1883 she managed the Balnagown estate until the young Sir Charles was 21 in 1893.

Lady Ross had a stormy relationship with her son, who was determined to oust her from Balnagown Castle when he came into his inheritance. He eventually brought legal proceedings against her for mismanagement of the estate, setting off on a lifelong career of litigation against those he felt had wronged him.

Lady Ross of Balnagown

1870 (1 comments)

Patricia Burnley Ellison of Louisville, Kentucky, a renowned American beauty, became the second wife of Sir Charles Ross of Balnagown in 1901. This picture was taken by a photographer called Klauber in Louisville in about 1900.

Sir Charles, born in 1872, married three times. His first marriage to Winifred Berens was dissolved in 1897. During his subsequent marriage to Patricia Ellison he was cited as co-respondent in numerous divorce proceedings before she divorced him in a blaze of publicity in 1930. His last marriage, in 1938, was to his American secretary, Dorothy Mercado, who inherited Balnagown after his death in 1942.

Patricia Ellison (Lady Ross)

1900

Photograph of Dorothy Mercado, who became the third wife of Sir Charles Ross of Balnagown in 1938, taken on board the Queen Mary. Sir Charles was based in North America for much of his adult life and Dorothy Mercado was his American secretary. His previous two marriages had been to Winifred Berens in 1893 and Patricia Ellison in 1901. Both ended in divorce.

After Sir Charles' death in 1942, the third Lady Ross inherited the castle and estates which were heavily encumbered with debt. Attempts by her and later by her second husband to run the estates as a sporting venture were not a great success and by the late 1960s much of the estate had been sold and the castle itself was in a state of decay. The castle and what remained of the estate was bought by Mohamed al Fayed in 1972.

Dorothy Mercado (Lady Ross)

1938 (16 comments)

Photograph of Sir Charles Ross of Balnagown at Eton in the late 1880s. Sir Charles was born in 1872 and attended Eton and Cambridge. He was a keen sportsman and while at Eton designed and patented his first rifle. At Cambridge he had the distinction of being the first married rowing blue, having married against his mother's wishes shortly after his twenty-first birthday.

Sir Charles Ross at Eton

1890 (7 comments)

This picture was taken outside Rosehill House in 1902. The people in the photo were the parents of a Mr George Murray.

Rosehill.

1902 (4 comments)

This picture shows Hartfield House which was designed by Tain architect Maitland. In front of the house are Mr Ross, standing and Miss Fortune in the carriage.

Hartfield House

1910 (1 comments)

This W Smith photo shows a group of painters including Roderick Macleod, James (Big Urquhart ), Hugh Ross, R Macleod, James Mackenzie (Jeemack).

Painters R Macleod & son.

1910

William Smith (1824-1906) was a highly skilled and innovative photographer who throughout his long career photographed the scenes, occasions and people of his day and has left us with a vivid record of 19th century life. When he first moved to Tain he had a bookseller and newsagent business in the High Street then later had his studio and shop in Castle Brae. He was a church elder and became involved in all sorts of charitable work, most notably the Tain Ragged school.
There are a number of examples of his photos in this image library.

William Smith, Bookseller and Photographer

1870 (4 comments)

Unfortunately we have no date for this event but a cut down version of this Post Card picture also appears in an album of photos compiled by William Ross, Jeweller and Watchmaker in Tain who lived in the latter part of the 19th and the first part of the 20th centuries. Two names have been written on the back -

Hare Shoot at Strathrory

1910 (1 comments)

This well known Tain character was affectionately nicknamed

Dan MacIntosh, Bell Hanger, Tain

1940

This photo taken looking up King Street is of the first motor cycle combination to appear in Tain. Sitting in the sidecar is Charlie Ross; the man in the middle is Alex Forsyth, Alisdair Kinghorn's maternal grandfather. It is interesting to note how the appearance of King Street is now much altered especially on the left hand side. The steps, which can be seen in the background between the two men standing, have now gone. They led into a house occupied by an Alex Fraser (

Early motor cycle combination

1910 (2 comments)

This photo shows George Ross harvesting oats with a scythe at his croft at Redburn near Edderton.

Harvesting at Redburn farm.

1930

George Ross,

Harvesting at Redburn Farm 2

1930

This picture, a gift from Mrs W Ross, Cromartie Gardens, Tain, shows ten crew members with Fire engine GLE 3 and equipment in Market Street.

Tain Fire Brigade

1930 (3 comments)

This photograph, gifted by Balnagown Estates, shows the workshop where Sir Charles Ross worked on his inventions.

Workshop of Sir Charles Ross

1900 (10 comments)

This picture shows a Sea Plane of the Royal Naval Air Service taking off from the estuary of Tain River. The river bank is lined with spectators and part of the suspension footbridge can be seen to the right-hand side of the photograph. Although not dated, it possibly relates to the earlier half of the twentieth century. See Picture #81

Seaplane on Tain River

1910 (1 comments)

This picture shows a group of motor cycles outside D. Mackay`s St Duthus Cycle and Motor Works in Sutherland Street. The group comprises five single motor-bikes and two motor-cycle combinations; the sidecar on one of these is of basket construction.

Cycle Works, Tain

1910

A group of mechanics and others showing a new Hudson motorcycle.

Group at D Mackenzie's garage.

1930 (1 comments)

This is a group of senior pupils taken in the grounds of the old academy, which is now Duthac House.
L to R - Back row - Roddie Maleod, Hugh Murray, Calum Campbell, Ian Forbes, Murdo Macleod, David Duff, Bruce Ross
Fourth Row - John Macdonald (Balnagore), Peter Mackenzie, Donald Mather, Ian MacArthur, Robert Mackenzie, Uisdean Ross, Alasdair Mackenzie, Hunter Denoon, David Ross
Third Row - Tibbie MacRae, Ida Fraser, Elizabeth MacMillan, Marjory Fraser, Sheila Munro, Isobel Miller, Annabel Ross, Jana Mackay
Second Row - Jessie Ross, Kathleen Montgomery, Janet Tough, Marjorie Reid, Maisie Forsyth, Margaret Macleod (Retta), Margaret Macleod, Phemie Murray, Marion Watson
Front Row - Alex MacMillan, Sandy Ross, Jack Forsyth, Margaret Shand, Dorothy Cameron, Margaret Mackinnon, David J Ross (Hilton), James Davidson

Tain Royal Academy 1937

1937 (3 comments)

This photograph was taken by Moffat photographers of Princes Street, Edinburgh, and shows the Moderator of the Church of Scotland (Dr Aird) standing beside a heavily-carved sideboard.

Reverend Dr Aird

1870 (5 comments)

This photograph shows a senior class outside Tain Royal Academy c 1930's ?.
L to R Back row - Robert Mackintosh, Ian M Ross (Meccano), John Vass, Peter Thompson, Hugh Robertson (Coatbridge), Andrew Ross (Sooyan) Harry Tresise, Andrew Fox, Walter Ross
Third Row - Hamilton Cormack, Willie Ross (Guillaume), Tommy Russell, Donald Maclean, Donald MacArthur, Ray Collie, Gregor Macleod
Second Row - Cathy Dundas, Joyce Mann, Betty Shand, Dorothy Tresise, Jessie Munro, Eleanor Macdonald, Alicia Ross, Kate Vass, Flora Mackay, Eileen Mackay, Ella Paterson
Front Row - Andrew Gardener, ? Ewen, Alex Corbett, David Stalker, Wattie Gardener, Andrew Munrow, ? Mackenzie, Donald Fraser, Hamish Sutherland (Porky)

Tain Royal Academy

1935 (6 comments)

A pipe band leads the parade down the High Street during the town's celebrations on Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, 1897. In the background, between the banners, the right hand part of a large floral arch erected for the occasion can be seen, showing the words

Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee

1897

This picture of the laying of the foundation stone at Carbisdale Castle is taken from an old post card addressed to

Laying the Foundation Stone, Carbisdale Castle

1900

This picture showing a group of Councillors (in top hats) and General Woolcoombe is taken at the corner of the High Street and St Duthus Street. Part of the Royal Hotel can be seen on the RHS. The occasion was part of the celebrations for George V's Coronation.
L to R - T Macleay, JR Strachan, T Wooley, Macdonald Whyte, Jas. Urquhart, WW Mackay, Donald Ross, Wm. Ross, Jas. Nicol, Provost Maitland, J Cormack, General Woolcoombe, WJ Macdonald.
Does anyone know anything about General Woolcoombe?

King George V's Coronation Day

1911 (1 comments)

This picture shows a group of fisherman in front of the bothy, being paid by Alex Cormack.

Tain Salmon fishing station

1895

This group taken at the ploughing match at Morangie farm includes the following people - James Ross ; Jack Campbell ; L Pieraceini ; D Peters ; George Christie ; Malcolm Munro ; Bruce Ross ; P Davidson.

Ploughing match at Morangie farm.

1930

This picture shows a group of workers in front of Glenmorangie distillery - L to R - Davie Cowie - Jock MacAngus - Willie John Bett - Archie Finlay - Don ? MacAngus - Alex Sangster - Jimmy MacAttie - Standing - Jimmy Forsyth - George Ross - Willie Bird - Harry Wood - Sitting - Relief Exciseman ( Thomson ? ) - C W Tresise -G L Smart - Billy Munro - Sitting in front - Billy Banks -Willie Ross.

Glenmorangie distillery.

1937 (3 comments)

This picture shows a group of pupils at Tain public School c 1929 -Back Row L to R -? -George ? Sangster - ? - ? - ? - ? - ? - Second Back Row - Belle Holmes - Louisa Gordon - Irene Embleton - Jean Louden - Christian Pirie ( Lovie ) - ? .-Third back Row - May Ross - Rosie Sinclair ( Mrs Bird ) - Ivy Ross - Elise Grant - Chrissie Campbell - Margaret Shand . -Front Row - James Ross - Bruce Ross - Jackie Ross ( Coogan ) - Ian Ross John Munro ( Ducky ) - Roddie Macleod - Jack Forsyth.

Tain Public School.

1929

The present Tain Royal Academy in Scotsburn Road replaced the one in Academy Street, which opened in 1813. The opening ceremony of the new Tain Royal Academy in 1969 was conducted in the new assembly hall by A Mackenzie, MP.

Opening Of New Tain Royal Academy.

1969 (3 comments)

This picture shows a group of pupils in the grounds of the old Tain Royal
Academy with their teacher Agnes Macrae.
L to R - Back row - Raeburn Robertson - Donald Mackenzie ( St Vincent ) -Alick Macrae - ? - Colin Mcnaughton - Stanley Ross .Middle row - Dodie Ross - ? - Winnie Ross - Miss Macrae - Gwen Mustard - Nanna Bethune - Front row includes - Angus Sutherland - Percie Howie .

School group 1914

1914 (2 comments)

This stall was one of several fundraising efforts in the late 1980's. It was manned by volunteers and Trustees.
Behind the stall - L to R - Carol Macdonald, Kathleen Dallas, Mairi Macleod, Rosemary Mackenzie. In front of the stall - Kathleen Rhodes (Curator).

Tain Museum Street Stall

1990

This picture shows a group of staff and members of the public in front of R K Dawson's shop in the High Street. The shop was later taken by the Collie family also tailors and even later became part of Strachans the bakers now Harry Gows.

Group in front of R K Dawson, clothier

1900 (1 comments)

This picture shows staff and members of the public in front of the shops W urquhart, painter and decorator, and Grant & Co, general store.

Two High Street shops

1900 (3 comments)

Back Row L to R - John Cormack, Iain Campbell, ?, A Corbett, Jack Munro, Colin Mackenzie, Robert Reid, Hugh Mackenzie (Hilton),
Third Row L to R - JD Corbett, Gregor Ross, Donald Cameron, James Munro, John Mackenzie, Jackie Mackenzie (Portmahomack), J Ross (Inver)
Second Row L to R - Isabel Mackintosh, ?, Ruby Lowen, Jessie Mackay (Inver), Olivia Rattray, ?, Laura Macdoald
Front Row L to R - Helen McCracken, Mary Fox, Alice Johnstone, Elsie Nicholson

TRA Senior Pupils, early 1930's

1932 (3 comments)

Back Row L to R - ?, John Mackay (Hilton), Douglas Pyle, ?, Walter Ross (Rockfield), ?, ?, Hugh D Ross (Tain), ?, ?, John Macdonald (Tain)
Third Row L to R - Mr Forbes (English), ?, ?, Jenny Macdonald (Tain), Kate Ross (Tain), Cathy Dunbar (Tain), Elaine Ross (Tain), ?, Pinky Christie (Nigg), ?, Etta Munro (Tain), ?, Dilys Wallace, Mr Reid (Classics)
Second Row L to R - Bella Ross (Tain), Mairi Herd (Tain), ?, ?, Catrion Mackenzie, Miss Barbara Mackenzie (Modern Languages), Mr Mackie (Rector), ?, ?, ?, Jenny Macleod (Tain), ?, Annie Campbell (Fearn Schoolhouse)
Front Row L to R - Rainy Calder, J Mackenzie (manse), ?, ?, Mary Gardiner, Hala Collie, ?, ?, ?

TRA c1926

1926 (2 comments)

This photograph, dated 1947/48, shows members of Tain Dramatic Society in costume for a production of `Mains Again`. It was taken outside the Duthac Centre (Town Hall then) - old entrance. Members are named on the back of the photograph.
Charlie Green, James Mackenzie, David Ferguson;
Andrew Melvin;
Ian Chisholm, Catherine Dunnet, George Bennifer(?), Gladys Embleton, Gordon Crawford, Connie Hood, Douglas Stacker(?), Greta Ross, Willis (Rae?), Don MacAskill;
Wattie Louden, Duncan Mackenzie, Donnie Macleod

Tain Dramatic Society

1947

Tarlogie House was one of a number of large houses in or near Tain.

Tarlogie House

1900 (17 comments)

This is a group of strawberry pickers, around 1899-1900, in a field which used to be opposite the railway station. It was part of a nursery belonging to WG Holmes, Seed Merchant. The nursery mainly grew strawberries and fruit trees eg apples. pears, plums. It later became a football field and was known as Coronation Park. It is now a depot for a construction firm.
Standing at back L to R - Macrae or Campbell (?), Janet ? (Knockbreck St). WG Holmes, Alick Munro (Mounteagle), Bob Stenhouse, Mrs Macdonald, William Munro, George Oman, George Graham, Angus Hepburn; group of three at LHS - ? Graham, George Mackenzie )former General Manager of British Linen Bank), Willie Holmes; group of four in middle - Roddie Ross, Andrew Ross, Andrew Gallie, Tom Mackenzie; Two at RHS - ? Cameron, ? Urquhart.

Strawberry pickers

1899 (4 comments)

This picture shows Nigg Primary pupils in 1925. The teacher was Annetta Mackenzie MacIntosh (1902-1960), daughter of Robert John MacIntosh and Annie Munro, London House, Invergordon.

Nigg Primary School

1925 (3 comments)

This picture shows a large wooden derrick erected to tap underground water at Brucefield farm, near Portmahomack, around 1911/12. George Gill may be one of the gentlemen on either side of the bore hole.

Drilling for water, Brucefield

1911

A junior class in Tain Public School (now Knockbreck Primary) some time in the 1920's.
Back row: ?, John Sutherland, ?, ?, ?, Ian Ross (Tinny), ?, George Davidson (Paddy), ?
3rd row: Babs MacCulloch, Rosemary Munro, Helen MacCracken, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?
2nd row: Chrissie Dyce, ?, ?, Nannie Bethune, Rachel Ferguson, Morag Sutherland, Christine Ross, ?, ?, ?, Margaret Ross, ?
Front Row: Far Right - Rae Collie

Tain Public School

1925 (2 comments)

This picture shows Gordon Maitland who was the nephew of Andrew Maitland, and helped him in his Architectural business in Tain.
In the 1920's Gordon left Tain to become a sculptor in Paris, where he died in 1933.

Gordon Maitland

1905

This photo was taken possibly in the early 1930's outside G Urquhart, Butchers in the High Street. It shows L to R: Jean Christie, Dave Urquhart, Barbara Munro(Mrs Urquhart). In the window are cuts of meat and pies with two hanging lamb carcases. This family firm owned two butcher shops (the other one in Portmahomack), operated a van round serving the Edderton, Inver, Portmahomack and Rockfield areas and also owned the Burgage farm. George Urqhuart was Forbie Urquhart's grandfather, Dave Urquhart was his uncle and son of George. Forbie Urquhart ran a drapery, clothing and haberdashery business in Lamington Street.
Next door to the left was Robert Collie, Tailor, and next to that was Strachan, Baker. All three premises are now part of the Gow bakery chain's Tain shop.

George Urquhart Butchers

1930 (1 comments)

John Gallie & Co operated as grocers in Tain during the early part of the 20th century. There were two shops - one in Market Street and this one in Stafford Street. The business was later taken over by Donald Leitch. The photograph shows Mr Leitch on left, with members of Staff. The building to the left is the Carnegie Library.

John Gallie & Co, Grocer

1940 (7 comments)

The picture shows a large group, including RAF and Home Guard, gathered in front of the Royal Hotel to be addressed by Provost William Fraser. The year is 1941 or 1942.

Service Personnel, Tain High Street

1941

Tom Scott, a sheep farmer from Sutherland, is pictured in Tain High Street.

Tom Scott, sheep farmer

1950

The photograph shows Mr & Mrs Murray outside Lily Cottage in Manse Street. The cottage still stands, although the porch had to be rebuilt after it was demolished by a lorry.

The back of the original photograph bears hand written comments by a Margo Lauchlan, born in Gtaeshead 1902, and possibly one other. One comment indicates that the photograph was taken by a Kenneth Munro about 1890.

Lily Cottage

1890

This picture copied from a post card was given to the museum in 1985 with an accompanying note which states the scene is as the donor remembered it 70 years earlier. The turret in the middle foreground is that of Dunskaith House which is now demolished. Other information provided was that the cottage above the turret was occupied by a George Gibson and his two sons; on the right is the Ferry Inn and back left is Craig Lodge. The white spot beside, middle left edge is the white box marking the 1st tee of the old Nigg Golf Course.

Cromarty (Nigg) Ferry

1915

This picture of the staff of Scotsburn House taken around 1900 gives an idea of the number of people employed in such houses and thus the large number of people in service generally at that time. The small boy is Donald (Doey) Macdonald and his father is the gamekeeper (with gun), father and grandfather respectively of Kenneth Macdonald, formerly of Arabella, currently living in Scotsburn Road, Tain.

Staff at Scotsburn House

1900

This picture of the Smithy at Culnaha was taken sometime during WWI. The blacksmith (holding the horse's hoof) was called Holmes. His son is to his right and the three girls are his grand-daughters. The soldier was from one of two big army camps nearby and the pony was from the YMCA hut(?).

Culnaha Smithy, Nigg

1914 (31 comments)

This group of curlers (possibly members of Logie Easter Curling Club) at an unknown location (possibly Loch Eye) includes the following people - William Ross, Pitmaduthy; James Ross, Balblair; Bob the Gravedigger (

Curling Group

1902

This group of 41 people are dressed in fancy costumes for a biblical play. The Missionary Lighthouse Group was a girls' association started c. 1900 by a Miss Macdonald who had wished to be a missionary. It was carried on by Margaret MacBean Ross and later restarted by Jane Macbean Ross at Everest, Knockbreck Road, Tain.

Missionary Lighthouse Group

1913

This postcard was posted from Inverness on Oct. 3rd, 1912, to a Miss Lily Mackenzie, Dudley Castle, Winchcombe, Gloucestershire. It shows Rory Macdonald known as

Rory Toe

1912 (2 comments)

Tain Scottish Dance Band with the cup they won at the Top Town Competition in Inverness in 1966.
L to R. John Pirrie, Charlie Ross, George Pirrie, Ali MacGregor.

Tain Scottish Dance Band

1966

This Church was built towards the end of the 19th century (1890-91) and was designed by a local firm of architects, Andrew Maitland & Sons. Its Gothic style with traceried windows and galleries etc. makes it very different from most Scottish churches. It was originally built for the Free Church who later united with the United Presbyterian Church to form the United Free Church in 1900. Today it is the Parish Church of Tain.

United Free Church (now Parish Church)

1910 (4 comments)

In this interior view of Anderson's saw mill, Andrew Anderson is the gentleman, back left, with the beard.

Anderson's Saw Mill, South Bonar

1880 (16 comments)

This picture shows the large workforce used to build Gruinyards Lodge. It is a Maitland designed building. Andrew Anderson, Bonar saw mill, Picture #55 is 8th from the left holding paper (plans?).

Gruinards Lodge, Strath Carron

1880 (11 comments)

These three gold miners are standing against the backdrop of the gold mining village used during the Strath Kildonan Gold Rush 1865-66.

Gold Mining, Kildonan, Sutherland

1865

St Mary's Well was a fresh water spring lying between the high and low watermarks on the Blarliath shore and could be accessed at low tide It was reputed to have health giving properties, especially for curing consumption. This tinted photograph shows Georgina Macdonald, probably some time in the 1930's. She frequently collected water from the spring and is supposed to have built the stone surround. The site of the well can still be located today by the presence of three large blocks of stone, one of which is seen behind Georgina. It has been claimed that these blocks were originally part of pillars marking the entrance to Tain Castle garden.

St Mary's Well

1930 (1 comments)

Edderton House, overlooked the Dornoch Firth but was demolished in the 1950's. It was part of quite an extensive estate. The house's last owner was a Mr Knight, Underwriter, London. The clocktower shown in the picture still stands

Edderton House

1900 (3 comments)

With the horse and cart are Alex and Bella (nee Ross) Fraser, of 11 Main Street, Inver. Alex was born in 1844 and died in 1927. Bella was born in 1850.

Bringing home firewood, Inver

1900 (1 comments)

This post card showing troops being given a send off by relatives, friends and other well-wishers as they left by train for the front was taken during the First World War (1914-18). It was not posted to anyone but someone has written on the back

Troops leaving from Tain Station

1916 (2 comments)

This post card shows the unveiling of Nigg War Memorial by Sir Robert W Brodie, DSO,MC (in uniform). Also in the picture are the Rev Mr N D Mackay, Nigg, Mr John Grant, Saddler, Mr James Munro and Mr William Ross.

Unveiling of Nigg War Memorial

1920 (1 comments)

The boy on the tricycle is Lachie Gallie who was a message boy for Alexander's bakery located in Gladstone Buildings, King Street. The following is written on the back

Message boy on baker's delivery tricycle

1933 (5 comments)

This photo shows the RAF contingent during the VE Day Parade along the High Street in May, 1945. Provost Fraser is taking the salute flanked on either side by halberd bearers.

RAF VE Day Parade

1945 (3 comments)

This group comprises members of the St Duthus Lodge which was founded in 1761. In the front row (from L to R) are - William Ross, James Maitland, Baillie Wallace, James Munro, Canon Cameron. The Swordbearer (front R) is

Freemasons, St Duthus Lodge (No.82)

1900 (2 comments)

This picture of a group of Sutherland crofters was taken at the foot of a croft known as Leslie's croft (location unknown), just after they had been released from Dornoch Jail. They had been arrested for resisting eviction orders. The long horns were used by the women to summon the men back to the croft when the Sheriff's men were spotted coming up the glen. They are mainly members of a family called Calder.
Back (L to R) - John Calder, John Matheson, William Calder, Robbie Calder, Walter Chisholm.
Front (L to R) - Neil Calder, Mrs Ross, Massie Mackay, George Munro.

Sutherland Crofters

1880 (6 comments)

This picture was taken after the inauguration ceremony of George Ferguson as Provost. From L to R are Alex MacMillan, Chairman, Clydesdale Bank, George Ferguson, Provost, AGD Cameron, former Provost, Robert Hay, former Provost. Alex MacMillan was chosen to open Tain's Celebrations on the occasion of Queen Elizabeth's Golden Jubilee, June 2002, being the only surviving Freeman of Tain.

Four Freemen of Tain

1970

This group photo is taken at the entrance to the old Town Hall in Tower Street (later used as a cinema and currently awaiting renovation) following the Freedom of the Burgh Presentations to Sir Arthur Bignold, MP, and Colonel James Alex. Francis Humberston Stewart Mackenzie of Seaforth in 1907. Sir Arthur is probably the white bearded gentleman at the front with Lady Bignold beside him. Colonel Mackenzie could be the gentleman in spats leaning against the balustrade. Also in the picture are various councillors, baillies and other dignatories (including the Countess-Dowager of Moray and Sir Kenneth Matheson, Bart. of Lochalsh) and leading businessmen. A cake and wine banquet took place afterwards in the Royal Hotel.

Freedom of the Burgh, Sir Arthur Bignold

1907 (4 comments)

A sepia photo by William Smith, Photographer, Tain, of the interior of the workshop, in Upper King Street, of a skilled cabinet maker called Danny Thompson. Thompson did all the wood work when Morangie House was built for the Gallies in 1903 and presented them with a carved wooden chair, similar to the one in the picture, as handsel or moving in present. On the left of the picture is W Fraser (father of Donald) who later bought the business.

Danny Thompson's Workshop

1895 (2 comments)

A photograph of the front of Balnagown Castle as it looked just over a century ago (1901) taken by William Smith, Photographer, Tain. Note the heavily ivy covered walls.

Balnagown Castle

1901 (10 comments)

Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Tain Town Council members in front of the Tolbooth during the celebrations to mark Tain's 9th Centenary as a Royal Burgh in 1966.
Council and wives - L to R - W Macleod, Mrs Macleod, Alasdair Macdonald, Mrs Macdonald, , Provost Hay (also Rector, Tain Royal Academy), Calum Kennedy. The Queen Mother is talking to Connie and Alex. Morrison.

9th Centenary Celebrations

1966 (1 comments)

A group of council roadmen posing with a roadroller in the background.
Driver:- J Robertson Foreman:- Willie Graham
Workmen (L to R) - J Duff, J Graham, W Williiamson (Bowley), ?, George Ross (Redburn).

County Council Roadmen

1930 (1 comments)

Frank Mackenzie Ross is seen here signing the roll during his inauguration as Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia in Canada - a post he held from 1955 to 1962. Frank Ross was born and brought up in Tain and was given the Freedom of the Burgh in 1963.

Frank Mackenzie Ross, Lieut. Governor, BC

1955 (3 comments)

A number of Tain's dignataries and noted citizens along with engineers and burgh workmen are shown at St George's well , near Culpleasant during the 1910 annual inspection of the Burgh's water works. These works established in 1871 provided Tain with an abundant and pure water supply for many years.
R to L - Councillor T Wooley, Wm MacGill, Geo. Gunn, JR Strachan, T Macleod, J Nicol, Baillie Robertson, Provost Fowler, Baillie J Gallie, J Cormack, Donald Ross, D Macleod.

Inspection of Burgh Water Works

1910 (1 comments)

Mrs Ross (`Tinnie`) of Stafford Street, Tain, is planting a tree in st Andrews Road to commemorate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II on 2nd June 1953. Mrs Ross lived in a house on the site of the present youth cafe.

Tree Planting Ceremony

1953 (4 comments)

A group of Tain Laundry workers taken in 1924.
L to R. Back Row - MK Macdonald, G Forsyth, M Ross, A Forbes, C Macrae, N Chrichton, L Strachan
L to R Front Row - L Sangster, K MacAllister, Mrs Hendry, Mrs T Ross, Mrs Anderson, C Tessa Maclean

Tain Laundry Staff

1924 (1 comments)

This shows the planting of a tree in the collegiate churchyard in Tain to mark Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887. The group consists of members of the town council, some of whom are wearing masonic aprons. Provost James Vass is standing to the right of the tree holding a small ceremonial spade. Although the tree itself is no longer there, a cast iron commemorative collar which fitted on the trunk is in the museum collection, and one of Dr Vass's descendants has the engraved ceremonial spade.

Left to right: Mr Dan Munro (chemist), Sergt ? (caretaker of the church), Mr Gordbrand (Culnaha), Rev Fraser (Fearn), Mr Edward Matheson (Volunteer), Mr White (coal merchant), Mr John Mackenzie (town clerk), Mr Andrew Maitland (architect), Rev Colin Macnaughton (Tain), Bailie Donald Duff, Mr WJ Macdonald (sheriff clerk), Rev Hutcheson, Provost Vass, Sheriff Mackenzie, Dr Kennedy, Bailie William Ross, Mr Fraser (Mayfield), Mr Duncan Cameron (Commercial Bank).

Jubilee tree planting

1887 (4 comments)

The 1948 Tain Carnival Queen (Lewis Fraser) is pictured in front of the Royal Hotel along with her attendants and some of the children taking part in the Fancy Dress competition. Several proud parents/interested spectators can be seen in the background.

Tain Carnival Group

1948 (5 comments)