Barrogill Mission Hall
Long before the Pulteneytown Mission Hall, later Barrogill Hall, was proposed, a Sabbath School was introduced by Wick Free Church, later Bridge Street.
The Northern Ensign of November 25th 1875 reported: -
“A Sabbath school in connection with Wick Free Church congregation and under the supervision of Mr Robertson of the Railway was opened in Wellington Street Pulteneytown on Sabbath evening. The Rev Renny attended the inaugural proceedings and 117 children attended with about 20 being found to be connected with existing Sabbath schools they were told that the object of the school was not to interfere with others and requested not to return. Of the others it is a sad fact that 46 between the age of 5 and 13 could not read! We trust this effort to reach and benefit a class in a district that has been greatly ignored will be abundantly successful.”
During the Cholera outbreak of 1832 a hospital was opened in Wellington Street and it is entirely possible that the above building was the former hospital.
In late 1884 the Office Bearers of Wick Free Church (Bridge Street) saw a need for a hall of their own in Upper Pulteneytown which they could use as a base for outreach into that community and to try to meet some of the social and religious needs. Although the fishing industry of the day brought great benefits to some, there was great deprivation and poor social conditions for many.
In September of 1885 the members of the congregation held a three-day Bazaar in the Temperance Hall in Louisburgh to raise sufficient funds for the erection of such a hall. Local lore has it that the fishermen of the day each sold a sample, or cran of herring and the proceeds went to meet the cost of the hall but that seems no more than myth and there is no record of that ever happening. There is however a record of Buckie fishermen giving the money from a nights fishing toward the cost of erecting the Roman Catholic Chapel in Wick in 1832, so perhaps events were scrambled. The cost of the New Pulteneytown Mission Hall appears to have been borne solely by the congregation.
This is how the Northern Ensign reported the event on Sept 30th 1885;
Bazaar in Wick
A Bazaar for the erection of a new mission hall in Pulteneytown was held in the Temperance Hall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday last. It is intended that the proposed hall shall, among other purposes offer accommodation for the District Sabbath School which for a number of years has met in the South Public School.
An active committee of ladies with Mrs. Doctor Banks as secretary exerted themselves to make the Bazaar a success and it may be said that there most sanguine expectations were more than realised. An immense quantity of useful ornamental work was provided, much of it by the ladies themselves and the rest contributed by friends from all parts of the country and some living in faraway lands. Many of the articles were of a more bulky and substantial character than are usually seen at Bazaars and for the disposal of these it was found necessary to issue subscription tickets.
The Temperance Hall was tastefully decorated for the occasion and when all was ready for the opening, the heavily laden and well arranged stalls presented to view one of the most attractive fancy fairs which have been seen in Wick.
As soon as the doors to the bazaar were opened on Thursday, shortly before noon, visitors arrived in large numbers and the hall was quite crowded by the time that business was formally commenced. Among those present, not including the stall holders and their assistants whose names are given below were:
The right Hon the Earl of Caithness Sir Tollemache Sinclair, Bart MP, Sir John Sinclair Bart Dunbeath and Lady Sinclair, Mr & Mrs. Barry of Keiss and Miss Goodart; Mr & Mrs Horne of Stirkoke; Mrs Bentley Innes of Thrumster, Miss Bentley Innes of Yorkshire and Mr Harry Bentley Innes; Admiral Rutherford & Mrs & Miss Rutherford and Miss Cox, Pulteney House; Rev G Renny, Wick; Sheriff Harper and the Misses Harper, Bellvue; Provost Rae, Wick; Mrs Adam of Lynegar; Mrs Phin, High Street; Mr Gilchrist, Commercial Bank; Miss Reddie Free Church Manse Pulteneytown; Mrs & Misses Robertson Elgin Villa; Mrs Grant, Gillock; Miss Lizzie Etta Grant, Killimster; Mrs James Stephen Thistle Cottage; Mr J T Reid, Wick; Mrs Meiklejohn, Halkirk; Mr, Mrs & Miss McEwen, Wick; Mr D Bremner, High Street; Miss Thompson, Lybster; Miss Stewart, Lybster; Mr &Mrs Magnus Baikie; Miss Bella Baikie, Scalesburn; Miss Cormack, Harbour Place; Rev Mr Clark & Mrs Clark, Wick Parish Church, Dr Banks, Wick; Dr Elder, Edinburgh; Dr John & Dr A Alexander, Wick; Mr & Mrs D Swanson, Wick; Mrs J M Sutherland, Wick; Mr A Sutherland SSC, Wick; Mr Shepherd, Solicitor, Wick; Misses Kirk, Wick; Mr & Mrs Gunn, and Mr John & W Gunn Sibster; Mrs Henderson Royal Hotel Thurso; Mrs Brown, Watten; Rev Mr Connon and Mrs Connon, The Parsonage; Mr A Rae, Bookseller, Mr & Mrs Nicolson, High Street; Mrs Stobie, Pulteneytown; Mr Donald Sutherland Liverpool; Miss McAdie, Union Street; Mr Scott, Noss; Mr Cormack, Solicitor; Mr C Bruce, Merchant; Mr & Mrs Nicolson, Dempster Street; Mr John Sandison, Merchant; Mrs G M Sutherland, Sinclair Terrace, Mr Barron CE; Miss Bruce, Mowat Lane; Mr Andrew Louttit, Wick; Mr & Mrs R Sinclair Union Street; Mrs Thomas Murray Thurso; Miss Keith, Thurso; Mrs Henderson Gow, Pulteneytown; Mrs D Miller, Pulteneytown; Miss Stewart, Barbara Place; Miss Gunn & Miss Bara Gunn, Union Street; Miss Geddes, High Street; Miss Miller Mowat Lane; Mrs W Brown, Rumster; Miss Mackay, Kirk; Miss Low Willowbank; Miss Steven, Trinity, Edinburgh; Miss Steven, Rose Street; Mr Robertson, Fishery Office; Misses Manson, Louisburgh; Mr & Mrs Tait Harbour Road; Mr Young, Godorich, Canada; Misses Bain, High Street; Miss Flett, Pulteneytown; Mrs J B Bruce, Hawthorn Villa; Mr & Mrs Jas. Sinclair, Coach Road; Mrs Angus, Coach Road; Mrs Dundas, Kincardine on Forth; Mrs John Sandison, Coach Road; Mr James Bremner Greenigoe Manor &c &c There were many other arrivals at a later part of the day and a complete list would include the names of the whole community.
A few minutes after twelve o’ clock noon, Rev Mr Renny announced the hundredth psalm which was sung by the audience, Miss Fraser Halkirk accompanying on the organ belonging to No 3 stall. Mr Renny then offered prayer. Mr Renny next said that he had the honour and pleasure in introducing the Earl of Caithness. As his Lordship might be said to live as much upon the ocean as on dry land and as the undertaking of the erection of a Mission Hall had in view the moral, social and spiritual welfare of the fishermen and their families, it was quite appropriate that Lord Caithness should be invited to open their fair (applause) after some other remarks Mr Renny formally introduced the Earl.
Lord Caithness said that it was his pleasant duty to attend that day to open the Bazaar which was for a very good object, namely for the erecting of a Mission Hall in Pulteneytown, he wished every success to the undertaking and as there were so many beautiful things on the stalls which no doubt they were anxious to spent their money upon, he would not further detain them but would declare the Bazaar formally opened. (Applause)
Provost Rae said that he had been requested by the ladies of the Bazaar Committee to propose a vote of thanks to the Earl of Caithness for coming there that morning at considerable inconvenience to open the Bazaar. (Applause) The ladies considered themselves highly fortunate in securing the Earl of Caithness, Lord Lieutenant of the County, on this occasion and they wished to express their very grateful thanks for his courtesy and kindness in so readily agreeing to their request. (Applause) his Lordship was always ready to do anything in his power to promote any good object either in the town or in the county, he therefore had much pleasure in proposing a cordial and hearty vote of thanks to his Lordship and while he did so in the name of the ladies of the Bazaar, he was sure it was joined in by everyone present and the community at large. (Applause) Business was forthwith commenced and large purchases were made at all the stalls. It is impossible to give anything like an idea of the character of the goods displayed for sale but in mentioning as follows the names of the ladies in charge, we shall indicate some of the leading articles which they were busy engaged in disposing of: -
No 1 Stall
Mrs Renny, Mrs A Rae, Mrs W Murray, Mrs G Gunn; assisted by Miss Gunn and Mrs Mack, Sibster, Miss Renny, Miss Cargill, Arbroath, Miss Corner Parliament Square, Misses Gunn, Dale, miss Ferguson Westerdale, Miss Miller Scrabster, Miss Horne Kirk’s Buildings, Miss Crowe Wellington Street, Miss Munro Dingwall, Miss Davidson Oldhall, and Miss Millicent Fraser Halkirk. Here was to be seen a variety of African imports, Ostrich feathers, Ostrich eggs some beautifully painted, Angora mats, Indian bronze ornaments and Indian sandalwood boxes, hand painted flowerpots for hall, and a magnificent hand painted draught screen (by Miss Crowe) curiously designed work bags, gypsy tables, camp stools, flower painted mirrors, plaques, brackets, sashes, smoking caps and a thousand things besides.
No 2 Stall
Mrs John Banks, Mrs Charles Bruce, Mrs John Sandison, Milton House, Mrs John Robertson Breadalbane Terrace, assisted by; Mrs W Bruce, Miss Cormack Argyle Square, Miss Bruce Mount Hooly, Miss Sandison, Miss Banks, Miss Arnold, Misses Georgeson Sinclair Terrace, Misses Clyne Dalemore, Miss Charlotte Baikie, Miss Maggie Corner and Miss Robertson Breadalbane Terrace.
On this stall was displayed hand painted articles of such diverse kinds as tables and cushions. The Indian curiosities included a fan of Peacock’s feathers, table covers &c several pretty Spanish water jars were in stock and among the other goods were mantle piece drapes, fender stools and blankets, toilet sets, slipper bags, newspaper racks, plaques, chrystoleum (sic) view of Edinburgh, mats, tidies and brackets in endless number and variety.
No 3 Stall
Mrs Rae, Mrs D Cormack, Mrs Barron, Mrs Nicolson Watten Cottage, Mrs J T Reid; assisted by, Misses Cleghorn, Miss Simpson, Miss Maribell MacLennan, Miss Alice Gunn Watten, Miss Fraser & Miss Anna Fraser Halkirk, Mrs Scott Noss, Miss Miller West Park, Miss Georgina Sinclair and Miss Catherine Leith.
A handsome and elaborately carved five octave organ was a conspicuous feature in connection with this stall. A place was found for it on the platform next to the stall where it attracted a good deal of attention. The next valuable article was an elegant drawing room chair. The fine arts included a pretty watercolour sketch of Loch Watten by Mr Tom Scott whose fame as an artist is now well established. We ought also to mention here the beautiful plaques hand painted by Mrs Horn of Burgie House and by Mrs Barron of Wick. There was an excellent display of ottomans, afternoon tea tables, mantle piece borders, fender stools, fire screens &c.
No 4 Stall
Mrs Alexander, Mrs R Robertson, Mrs W Cormack and Mrs Banks; assisted by Mrs Henderson West Park, Mrs Stobie, Mrs W Miller, Mrs & Miss Gill Blingery, Mrs B Leith, Mrs Scott, Noss, Miss J C Ferguson, Miss Kate MacLennan, Miss Jessie Bremner Argyle Square, Miss Kate Kirk, Miss Park Glasgow, Miss Agnes Brown Clyth and Miss Mary Leith Sinclair Terrace.
This stall and a supplementary table in the centre of the hall were abundantly furnished. Ottomans and ornamental tables made an excellent show and there were likewise fire screens, vase, painted flower pots, Lisbon pottery jars, chairs, fender stools, banner screens, handkerchiefs, sashes, wall panels, dolls and other articles much too numerous to mention.
Refreshment Stall
Mrs Jas. Stephen, Misses Brown Clyth, Mrs Nicol Caledonian Hotel, Miss Munro Telford Street, Miss Maggie Horne, Miss Annie Nicolson, Miss Peters London and Miss Gow.
The viands were abundant and admirably served while the tariffs were on a most reasonable scale. The bill of fare was on the table and one saw at a glance what he might have and how much he would have to pay for it. The arrangements in this department should be copied at all Bazaars.
Game Stall
Miss Bremner Argyle Square, Miss Robertson Francis Street
Grouse, Ptarmigan, Hare and rabbits represented the game section and the stall was also well supplied with poultry, butter and eggs; quality, first class and prices moderate
The Parcels Stall
Under the charge of Mr James Banks who had a busy time of it taking in and giving out parcels on the “left luggage” principle with the only difference that the payment per parcel was set at one half of what is exacted at railway stations.
Business was suspended at four o’ clock and resumed at six when the hall was crowded with visitors till closing time. The day’s drawings amounted to £406
Second Day
The doors were again opened at twelve noon, and notwithstanding the large amount of goods sold the previous day, the stalls showed no perceptible signs of depletion.
The proceedings commenced with the Rev Clark engaging in prayer. The Rev Renny said that they met in a spirit of gratitude, yesterday he had the honour of introducing the Earl of Caithness, a representative of the peers of the realm; and he had the honour now of introducing Sheriff Harper. It was right that in such an undertaking that they should have the countenance of the Law, and none could represent it better than the Sheriff. He existed for the repression of crime and this undertaking aimed at the prevention of crime and therefore they were fellow workers in the same field. (Applause)
Sheriff Harper said that Mr Renny had remarked the previous day that that was the place for business and not for speeches and therefore he would make no speech on that occasion. He would simply declare the Bazaar open and in doing so, express the pleasure which he had in being present and the strong hope that the Bazaar would be a successful one. (Applause)
Ex Baillie Bruce said that he had been asked by the Committee ladies to express their warmest thanks to Sheriff Harper for his kindness in opening the Bazaar that day. The Sheriff had not been long amongst them but he had, during the comparatively short time he had been there, manifested a keen desire to encourage every movement which had for its object the moral and social welfare of the community. In the name of the committee of management he had to offer Sheriff Harper their warmest thanks for opening the Bazaar that day. (Applause)
A large business was again done the drawings for the day amounting to £256.
Third Day
On Saturday morning the stalls had a dismantled appearance, but by the time that selling commenced, they had, by “ingenious dressing” a fairly well furnished look and value for a considerable sum of money was still estimated to be on hand.
The Rev Mr Renny offered prayer at noon and afterwards formally opened the Bazaar for the day. He then said that he thought that was the best time, rather than during the bustle of finishing up in the afternoon, to convey thanks to those to whom they were greatly indebted for the success of the undertaking. First he had to mention the committee of ladies under whose auspices the Bazaar was held. They certainly had a whole year to prepare for the work which they had done so well and though as in all voyages there might be breezes, and head winds, these were all forgotten as they came near the shore. They were also much indebted to the committee of young men who had advanced, at the beginning, a little capital and had kept up till the end their interest in the enterprise. They were also greatly indebted to those who had assisted at the stalls, not forgetting the gentleman who has so assiduously attended the parcels stall. They must also acknowledge the kindness of friends at home and abroad who had so handsomely contributed to the stalls; and thanks were of course also due to the purchasers. He had also to mention the gentleman who had so kindly added to the harmony of the proceedings by discoursing music on the piano; and he must also refer to the gentlemen who had watched during the night to see that no harm had come to the goods. Next came the doorkeepers, who, with Mr John Bruce at their head had rendered such excellent service. He must be excused for mentioning a certain gentleman whose activity, enthusiasm and good humour had done so much for the success of the Bazaar. He understood that he had won a wedding cake and he hoped that he would select one of the young ladies behind the stalls and crown the proceedings with a wedding feast; he referred to Mr George Ross. (Applause) they were also much indebted to the gentlemen who had fitted up the stalls and decorated the hall. Mr Renny then announced that the two days’ drawings amounted to £662 which with £20 in the bank made £682. They would be glad if the total came up to £800 but would be thankful to see £750. They would without doubt, have to make sacrifices in disposing of the remaining articles but that could not be avoided.
The sale then went on very briskly and by four o’ clock the whole of the goods were cleared off. The total proceeds for the three days including £20 in the bank £767.11.1 the details of the drawings are as follows:
No 1 Stall £187.15.0
No 2 145.16.8
No3 130.01.7
No4 183.05.8½
Refreshments 32.09.10½
Game 16.05.7
Parcels 2.07.7
Weighing Machine 0.09.10
Entrance Money 18.19.6
Donations ¬¬¬¬ 20.00
767.14.1
Mention should be made of the important help rendered to the Bazaar by a committee of gentlemen consisting of Messrs W Sutherland MA West Banks; (Secretary) W Nicolson, Grocer; David Tait, Grocer; George Gunn, North Public School; George J Ross, Bookseller and John Gow Pulteneytown. This committee started the enterprise with a gift of £50.
Mr Townsend, teacher of music enlivened the business in the hall by performing at intervals on the pianoforte, as on all such occasions Mr John Calder, Burgh Officer, rendered important service from the opening to the closing of the Bazaar.
It is worth noting that the amount raised away back in 1885 would be worth today (2009) £45,935.
There now follows an extract minute of the Wick Free Church Deacon’s court and their dealings with the erection of the hall, kindly transcribed by Mrs Elizabeth Henderson.
2 November 1885 Deacon’s Court Minutes
Page 63: It was reported to the Court that a suitable site for the Mission Hall presently possessed by certain members of this congregation can be obtained at the price of £51.7.9 with an annual Feu duty of £2.10- and 10/- of street money being the price they paid for it; the ground being situated at the junction of Barrogill Street with Huddart Street Pulteneytown. After consideration and information from several office bearers present the court being satisfied that no better locality could be found and that the price is reasonable agreed to accept the same and instruct Mr David Cormack Solicitor to have the necessary transfer completed in favour of the members of the Deacons Court and their successors in office.
The Court considered it advisable to associate with the members of court the following gentlemen to act along with them in carrying out the erection of the contemplated building, viz Messrs George I Ross, David Tait, John Gow, Alex Rae and Wm Sutherland who along with certain of the office bearers contributed materially to the initiation and success of the Bazaar and also five male teachers in the Mission Sabbath School Upper Pulteneytown to be elected by the teachers of the school. It was further resolved to request Mr James Barron CE a member of the congregation to join with the office bearers and committee in their efforts to complete the erection of the Hall. Thereafter it was agreed to hold the first meeting of the Committee for this object on the 13th inst in the Session Room of the Church at 8 o’clock PM
13 November 1885
Page 65: After consideration it was agreed to request Mr Barron to draw out a plan of the proposed building for a Mission Hall to hold about 500sitters and to give the estimated cost thereof but not to exceed £600. The following committee was appointed to act along with Mr Barron in preparing a rough plan or sketch of the building — which he has kindly consented to execute; the said sketch to be submitted to the general committee prior to a regular plan being prepared, viz Bailie Reiach Messrs Wm Nicolson, Donald Harrow, George I Ross, Donald Swanson and David Tait, Mr Barron Convenor.
23 November 1885
The Clerk intimated that he had received a memorandum from Messrs George I Ross and William Nicolson intimating that the promissory note they had granted for the purchase price of the ground, which the Deacon’s Court had accepted on 2nd November as a site for the Mission Hall was now due, and wished the court to settle the same and to pay the Feu duty and Street Money likewise due on the two feus. The Court instructed Mr Reiach and his Clerk on their receiving from Messrs Ross and Nicolson the documents giving them a Title** to the ground to operate upon the Deposit Receipt in the Bank of Scotland to the extent of retiring the promissory note, the amount therein being Fifty one pounds seven shillings and nine pence and paying the Feu duty amounting to Two pounds ten shillings with the street money ten shillings in all £54.7.9.
(** The first Minute in the Session book dated 1915 notes that a Title has not yet been received!)
1 December 1885
The Clerk laid before the meeting the plans for the Mission Hall prepared by Mr Barron. After consideration of the same it was agreed t approve of the plans and the same to the Committee at last meeting and to request Mr Barron to make up specifications for the work and the committee was instructed to advertise for offers.
14 December 1885
Page 68: Mr Barron read the several specification prepared by him for the Mason, Carpenter, Plasterer, Plumber and Slater Work for the Mission Hall Upper Pulteneytown. Thereafter it was agreed to request parties offering to execute the work to have their offers lodged on or before Wednesday 23rd Inst.
28 December 1885
The Clerk laid upon the table sixteen Tenders he had received from tradesmen in town for the several departments of the work in erecting and completing the Mission Hall Pulteneytown. On these being opened and read the following offers were accepted for the
Mason work and Slater works that of Messrs A & A Finlayson Builders 31 Brown Place Pulteneytown for the sum of Two hundred and Ninety-Three pounds. For the Carpenter, Glazier and Painter work that of Mr William Durrand, Joiner George St Wick for the sum of One Hundred and Ninety pounds. For the Plaster work that of Mr James Smith Plasterer Dempster Street Pulteneytown for the sum of Forty-Nine pounds and for the Plumber and Gas fitting work that of William Johnstone and Son Wick for the sum of Forty-One pounds ten shillings. The Clerk was instructed to intimate to the successful offerers that their offers had been accepted.
Mr Barron kindly offered to superintend the work while in course of execution and the following committee was appointed to act along with Mr Barron in carrying out any re-arrangement of details found necessary during the progress of the work — Dr Banks, Geo I Ross and the Clerk.
3 May 1886
Page 74: It was resolved that the inscription on the tablet on the gable of the Mission Hall shall be “Wick Free Church Mission Hall Erected 1886”. (NOTE: See page 13 of Mr Roy’s booklet— there is no mention in the Minutes of why there is no inscription on the plaque)
The subcommittee intimated that the contractor (Messrs Finlayson) for the Mason work had offered to erect a circular window in the south gable for the sum of Three pounds ten shillings. The committee were authorised to accept of this offer.
14 December 1886
Page 81: The Clerk intimated that the Sub Committee had taken offers for eighty (80) moveable seats for the Hall the lowest offer being that of Mr George McAdie viz £42.0.0 The subcommittee requested Mr McAdie to supply 10 additional seats of the same size and pattern as those offered for and at the same price. The commit likewise requested Mr Smith contractor for the plasterwork to run a cornice along the ceiling of the Hall the price to be five pence (5d) per running foot. The meeting approves of the work authorised by the subcommittee. Certain correspondence between the subcommittee and the contractor for the carpenter work was read from which it appeared that he was unnecessarily delaying the work. It was agreed to add the following gentlemen to the subcommittee and to wait upon the contractor to urge him on with the work and to take any other steps they may consider necessary, viz Provost Reiach and Wm Nicolson.
The Clerk intimated that John Macdonald Cameron Esq. MP had presented a bell for the belfry of the Hall and that he had written Mr Cameron acknowledging its receipt. The meeting records its most cordial thanks to Mr Cameron MP for this most handsome gift and instruct the Clerk to write him to that effect
Thereafter the subcommittee were instructed to obtain offers for a pavement and railing at the Hall along Huddart Street and for fencing in the vacant Feu at Barrogill Street and likewise for the pavement at south end of Hall.
12 April 1887
Page 84: An account .... Messrs A & A Finlayson for extra work done at the Hall was laid before the committee when it was resolved to request the contractor to make good the following work which has been pointed out to them as being defective viz;
Spur stone on the north west corner of the Hall as being too small and split.
The Freestone corners, door and window rybats (ingoes) which are split, doorsteps in Huddart Street insufficient in quality for purpose and otherwise defective
the pointing on the east side and south end of Hall not according to Specification.
Freestone lintel of fireplace not in accordance with Specification, plastering in-goes of windows on west elevation not executed. Thereafter the committee took into consideration the delay which the carpenter is manifesting in executing his contract when it was resolved to write him stating that before resorting to ulterior measures competent to them this committee desire to know from him why he has not completed his contract. The Clerk was instructed to state to the contractor that unless the committee hear from him tomorrow it may be beyond his power to stop the proceedings indicated.
27 April 1887
There was laid before the meeting a letter from Messrs A & A Finlayson in reply to copy of minute sent to them of meeting held on 12th inst, in which they state that the defects in Freestone are not worth
mentioning. The pointing would, they state, have been done according to Specification “but we had it in a different way from what your Architect says he intended”. The work done by us is superior to Specification as we have given you keyed pointing and the Specification does not say so. We are prepared to refer all differences to arbitration and extras not in our former account will also be laid before him which we have found we are entitled to. With reference to plastering of windows, it is not in our department nor Specification. Your reply on Thursday 28th inst is requested to save further trouble.”
After consideration of the foregoing letter it was resolved that the Clerk send the following reply
Dear Sirs
Mission Hall
In reply to yours of 26th inst I am instructed to say that the Committee cannot agree with you in thinking that the defects in Freestone are not worth mentioning, on the contrary the defects are of much importance. The committee are entitled to have good workmanship and materials and have resolved to insist on having them. In regard to the pointing the Specifications are most explicit — leaving no doubt as to how the work should have been done and it therefore lies with you to make it in accordance with the Specification.
The Committee will be prepared to consider further just account for extras you may render.
The Committee decline to appoint any arbitrator as they consider the Specification and General conditions ample for their purpose and they now call on you to complete your contract in accordance with the Specification and that without delay.
In the absence of the Clerk, Mr Nicolson was appointed Clerk pro tern and instructed to sign the foregoing letter for the Sub Committee and to forward the copy thereof this evening.
9 May 1887
Page 88A letter from Messrs Finlayson Contractors for the mason work of the Hall was read when it was resolved to reply to the same as follows
Wick May 9th 1887
Wick Free Church Mission Hall
Messrs A & A Finlayson
Builders, Pulteneytown
In reply to yours of 2’ inst I am instructed to inform you that the freestone defects were pointed out to you during the progress of the work and that the freestone steps were objected to immediately after being laid down. I am also requested to state that the Architect has not yet passed any portion of your work as the same was only completed about a month ago. I am likewise instructed to direct your attention to the General Conditions in the Specification viz; “The Contractor to uphold the same for a period of twelve months after completion all to the satisfaction of the employers or any competent Inspectors they may appoint.
“The committee ascertain from the Architect that cleaning out the present pointing in the east wall and South gable cannot now be done but at considerable cost and that in the event of it being cleaned out the Specification does not state that it is to be flat pointed or plastered. The committee are desirous that this matter should be adjusted and they acquit themselves of all blame in the delay which has occurred in setting the
An immediate reply is requested.
Bottom of Page 88— Deacons Court Minute: The correspondence which had taken place between the Sub Committee of the Mission Hall and Messrs Finlayson the contractors was read to the Court when it was resolved to request the Sub Committee while adhering to the opinions laid down in their letters to make a compromise so that the account of the contractor might be settled.
14 May 1887
A letter from Messrs Finlayson on 12th inst was read and after consideration of the same it was resolved to request them to attend a meeting of this committee on Monday evening first the 16th inst to be held in the Session Room of the Church at 8 o’clock to take into consideration the matters in dispute and their account for extra work. The Clerk was instructed to intimate to Wm Durran the contractor for the carpenter that the committee have made arrangements which necessitate his delivering up the key to them not later than the 11th June next.
16 May 1887
The Minute of previous sub-committee meeting was read and approved. The Messrs A&A Finlayson Contractors were present as requested.
The account for extra work done by them at the Mission Hall which they had rendered to the committee was taken up and discussed with them.
Thereafter it was resolved to ask the Contractor to hand in an account giving credit for the following works unexecuted and deficient
1. The pointing and painting of the joints of the east wall (Huddart Street) and south gable (Barrogill Street) not being executed in accordance with specification an allowance to be made therefor.
2. The freestone lintel of fireplace being smaller than specified — difference to be allowed for.
3. The freestone ingoes of door in Huddart Street not being as specified was subject to deduction
4. The spur stone in west gable was requested to be removed and a new one furnished or an allowance to be made.
5. The two steps at the door in Huddart Street being split and otherwise defective al allowance must be made or to be replaced.
On further consideration of the account it was found that on the Upper
Walls an allowance of £2.3.3 should be deducted from the account.
The difference in value between the slate nails used and those specified
to be ascertained.
On the circular window in Barrogill Street 10/- allowed by the
contractor
31 May 1887
A letter from Messrs A&A Finlayson was read and considered when the Committee regarded the sum of 15/- allowed by the contractors in their letter for the pointing and painting not executed was quite inadequate. It was resolved to accept of a deduction of £2.2.0 for this deficient work. For the freestone lintel not in accordance with specification, 5/- instead of 3/6 to be allowed
for the defective spur stone, 10/6 or a new one to be supplied according to plan and specification. For the defective Freestone steps the Committee will accept 21/- or two new ones these to be to the satisfaction of the Architect.
With respect to the Upper Walls the Committee adhere to the sum stated to Messrs Finlayson at last meeting viz 26/9 — instead of three pounds ten shillings as charged by them. The Committee will allow for the difference on slate nails the sum of 15/-.
The respective amounts as above with 10/- allowed off circular window shows the balance due to Messrs Finlayson to be £88.18.3 and that sum the Clerk was instructed to offer them for a final settlement of their account but upon the distinct understanding that its non-acceptance shall not prejudice or affect the rights and claims of this committee and the Deacons Court or preclude the withdrawal of the offer now made.
6 June 1887
There was laid before the meeting a letter from Messrs A&A Finlayson contractors in reply to copy of minute of 31 ult. sent them.
After due consideration of the said reply and the committee seeing that the terms for a final settlement offered the Messrs Finlayson has not been accepted by them. Resolve to withdraw all previous offers made to them and not accept the offer made in their letter now before the meeting, and have to request them to proceed forthwith and put all the work pointed out to them as defective and not in accordance with the specification in a workmanlike and proper manner has had been specified.
And the Clerk was instructed to send a copy of this minute to Messrs A&A Finlayson.
28 July 1887
The Clerk laid before the meeting the following letter received from
Messrs A&A Finlayson:
31 Brown Place, Pulteneytown July 26th 1887
Sir
With reference to your letter of 1st June — after due consideration we
accept the offer made by you.
Yours Truly
A&A Finlayson (signed)
After deliberation it was resolved to pay the Messrs Finlayson the balance due them as stated in the committee’s minute of 31 May and the Clerk was instructed to pay them the same upon receipt being granted by them in full of all claims.
The account of Mr James Smith Plasterer was submitted to the meeting showing the balance due him to be twenty pounds (f20) which account was certified by the Architect as correct and the clerk was instructed to pay the sum.
5 September 1887 (Deacons Court and Sub Committee)
Page 94: It was reported to the meeting by Mr Barron that there was a probability of the Mission Hall being completed for occupancy in a few days. In which circumstances it was resolved to invite the teachers of the Pulteneytown Mission Sabbath School and the teachers of the congregational to a conference to be held in the Mission Hall on Monday evening the 19th inst at 8 o’clock with a view to arrange for services connected with the opening of the Hall; the transfer of the Mission Sabbath School from its present premises to the Hall and to deliberate upon Mission Work of the district generally. The Clerk was instructed to send an excerpt of this minute to Mr Sutherland Superintendent of the Mission Sabbath School Pulteneytown and to Mr Gunn Superintendent of the Congregational Sabbath School that they may intimate the service to their respective teachers.
7 September 1887
There was laid before the meeting a plan of the platform by Mr Barrow which the committee after examination adopted, and requested Messrs Barron and Ross to obtain an estimate for same and in the event of Mr Barron considering the offer a reasonable one to accept it and to have the work proceeded with without delay. They were also requested to obtain six chairs suitable for the platform and anterooms and likewise the other articles requisite for the anterooms. It was resolved to put up a malleable iron railing on each side of the steps in Huddart Street and a wooden gate at the north east corner of the Hall. The committee now appointed was requested to report as to the cost of building an enclosing dyke in Barrogill Street and also as to the cost of size colouring the inside walls of the Hall.
14 September 1887
The committee along with Mr Barron CE had during the day visited the Mission Hall and have examined the work executed by the carpenter Mr Durran. On examination they found the following defects viz “Defects Doors — a number of the doors are ill fitted and hung. Joints filled with putty, panels not according to plan, Locks not of specified value. Imitation hinges on outside doors too small. Stops and facings not properly dressed, full of holes and altogether too rough and untradesmanlike.
Windows — the windows are all ill fitted at opening panes and a number of them not made as specified, eyes, opening cords and fasteners too small.
Louvre ventilators on roof too small and not according to plan, Ventilator on south gable ill made and rough.
WCs — the WCs are not properly made nor as specified.
Gratings at outside doors to be fitted in”
The Clerk was instructed to write Mr Durran with a copy of the above and to ask him how he proposes to remedy the defects complained of and when the same can be completed so that he may receive the balance of the cash of the contract price of the work. And to request an immediate reply that the same may be laid before this committee tomorrow evening.
19 September 1887 — in Mission Hall, Deacons Court met in
conference with the Teachers of Pulteneytown Mission Sabbath
School, the Teachers of Wick Free Church Sabbath School and the
Gentlemen associated with the Court in the erection of the Mission
Hall
It was unanimously resolved that the Hall be granted for united evangelistic services for a few weeks beginning with the 21st of October and that these meetings constitute the opening of the Hall.
It was likewise resolved that services shall be held in the Hall every Sabbath evening and on one evening during the week. But with regard to the Sabbath evening services the Hall be offered to the North East Coast Mission should they accept of it for such. In the event of their not accepting this offer, it was agreed to arrange with them so that the hours of the respective services on that evening should not conflict. It was agreed that the Mission Sabbath School be transferred to this Hall as soon as all the appointments are completed.
Thereafter on the motion of the Moderator it was unanimously and cordially agreed to record the gratitude of this meeting to Mr Barron CE and to express to that gentleman its sincere thanks for the valuable services he has in designing the Hall — drawing the plans, providing specifications of the work for the several contractors and superintending the same while in progress. And the clerk was instructed to send an excerpt of this minute to Mr Barron.
Barrogill Hall opening
Northern Ensign Sept 28th 1887
United Evangelistic services begin on Monday first in the New Mission Hall, Pulteneytown. The merchants of Wick and Pulteneytown have agreed unanimously to shut their shops promptly at eight o’ clock (until further notice) beginning on Monday night first.
Northern Ensign October 5th 1887
The Pulteneytown Mission Hall has now been finished and the first meeting for religious purposes was held in it on Sabbath evening last. The hall is well adapted for the purpose for which it is intended, namely a centre for evangelical work in upper Pulteneytown
The architect was Mr Barron CE who gave his services gratuitously. This generous action on his part has been recognised by the Deacons Court of Wick Free Church, which, at a meeting on the 19th ult. unanimously and cordially agreed to record their gratitude to Mr Barron “for the valuable services he has rendered in designing the hall providing specifications for the work for the several contractors and also superintending the same while in progress” and the clerk was instructed to send an excerpt of this minute to Mr Barron.
The hall will comfortably seat 500 persons and those who have tested the acoustic properties of the building say they are excellent. The first of a series of evangelistic meetings in which nearly all the ministers of the town are to take part was held in the Mission Hall on the evening of Sabbath last. The hour announced for the meeting was half past six but by six o’ clock the hall was crowded in every part and hundreds were unsuccessful in obtaining standing room. Amongst those on the platform were, the Rev Messrs Renny, Clark, Hewlett, Brown and Roberton, Rev Mr Renny presided and after the introduction services he delivered an address in the course of which he referred to the uses to which it is intended the hall shall be put. Addresses were also delivered by Rev Mr Clark and Mr Charles Houston, Draper. Meetings are to be held in the hall each evening this week commencing at eight o’ clock.
In 1902 it was thought that the hall was still too small and they built an extension comprising a small hall which was used as a primary Sunday school, a large kitchen and an entrance from Huddart Street in addition to the main door facing Barrogill Street. At one time one of the largest flagstones in Pulteney was adjacent to the front door but at some point this disappeared.
Above the front door is a large blank plaque, the local story is that the office bearers of Wick Free Church were going to inscribe Wick Free Church Hall on this plaque but this so incensed the people of Pulteney that this intention was never carried out. There is mention of this intention in the minutes of the Deacon’s court but no mention of unrest or anger in Pulteney is made either in the minutes or in the local press of the time.
The Sunday school flourished and frequent evangelical services were held by the East Coast Mission; during the week a sisterhood met. The hall was used by the Post Office to sort parcels at Christmas; Scouts and Sea Cadets used the hall at times, and there were jumble sales and concerts. During the Second World War, the Huts and Canteens Committee of the Church of Scotland used this hall and the Boys’ Brigade Hall in Oag’s Lane in Wick for the welfare of servicemen. After the war the Sunday school continued its good work under the leadership of Sinclair Lyall in the main hall while Nancy Anderson supervised the younger children in the small hall. One of the teachers was John Milne, jeweller who would to invite his class to choose one of the Psalms and to their astonishment John would repeat the Psalm from memory. On the subject of memory, later in this article there is a collection of memories of the Barrogill Hall gleaned from the message board pages of caithness.org in early 2009.
In the late 1950s and early 1960s the late John Cormack, (he of best chips in Wick fame) ran regular dances for teenagers which were hugely popular, still later in the '70s came the advent of disco-dancing. Robert Stevenson was the leader of the youth club running these events and the story goes that Lady Jessamine of Thrumster House was invited to be guest of honour at an anniversary disco and after a short speech and indulging herself with a slice of the anniversary cake, she then joined the big crowd of teenagers on the floor of the hall where she danced head and shoulders above all to Bill Hayley’s "Rock Around the Clock".
The Barrogill Hall meant many things to many people it undoubtedly served the people of Wick very well over the years and a thread of memory was opened on Caithness.org in late 2008, read what memories it brought back;
I am one of the many folk who used to go to Sunday School and attend the parties and picnics. Your bag of goodies - usually an empire biscuit, a couple of sandwiches, sometimes a sausage roll or pie out of Wildags - occasionally an old penny sweetie was in there too - but it was great everyone swapping sandwiches and bits and bobs, nothing went to waste. Even if the sandwiches were covered in sand when on the picnic folk eat them saying a little bit of dirt did not hurt anyone.
Can remember Sunday School teacher was Jennifer Mackay - now Spence.
The place used to be alive with youngsters, but when came near Christmas Party or picnic time the numbers trebled - wonder why?
I remember e' Barrogill Hall and Sinclair Lyall.
Funnily enough I was trailing through Groats from 1962 in the library yesterday and there was a picture and article about him....wish I'd read it now!
Certainly remember picnic bags, a fire in the Hall and lots of kids probably sent there to give their mum's a bit of peace for a while! That's what I call the good old days
Thank you for your memories...
Pat, I think you are much younger -.
Dirdyweeker mentions the fire... Do you mean the huge belly stove with the long chimney reaching to the roof?
On cold winter days the stove would be red hot, how we loved to sit close to it.
I think there was a kitchen and another room at the back where we would change our clothes for Plays or concerts.
On the Huddart Street side there was a flight of stairs - near Willdag Miller, and the main door was in Rutherford Street - hope I'm right.
Speaking of Willdag, on Sundays in summer, we would have ice cream made by him - you supplied your own jug, and ran furiously home before it melted !
The street was Barrogill St not Rutherford St - that’s where the Hall got its name from I believe.
Steps were on Huddart St side, through the back was where you did get changed for plays etc, there was a big room or two not sure, kitchen, toilets and a wide corridor to the steps.
Sinclair Lyall was there but I cannot put a face to him at all - sometimes you cannot remember.
Remember the pot bellied black stove that used to throw out a lot of heat - it was great when you came in cold and wet, did not take long to dry but then when you left - oh did you feel the cold, made getting home that bit faster!
Remember going to the Scouts concert there. They used a lot of the Caithness language in their sketches. Just wish I could remember. oh dear......! My sister had her wedding reception there in the 50's
The thing that sticks in my mind the most about the Barrogill Hall, is the size of the doors inside. Maybe it was because I was small at the time but to me they were huge. I also seem to remember a stage in the main hall. Loved the picnics to Dunbeath with races and the baggies. Can also remember putting streamers out the bus window. Great days
My memories of the Barrogill Hall are when it took on a different role in the month of December. It was there that the Post Office had their "Over-Flow" Sorting Office when the main sorting office in the market Square couldn't cope with all the mails during the "Christmas-Rush" period.
Jimmy Miller almost permanently unemployed (Late of Argyle Sq. & son of Neil the joiner) got a job there each year as a loader. His job was to meet the train and load the hired mails lorries we each day. I was Boss at the temporary Sorting Office at the time, when one day Jimmy asked if it was time for him to go to the station. I noticed my watch had stopped so I picked up the telephone to check the correct time
(You know ...@ the third stroke it will be four twenty-nine and three seconds etc) When I heard the time I told Jimmy to get a move on & I let him listen to the speaking-clock. Not being used to a telephone Jimmy took it in his hands cradle-like as if it were a baby and put his ear to the receiver. Then to my utter disbelief he said " She do at all ‘e time”?
Those were the days, Nancy used to the teacher, when I went Anne Macbeth and Reenie Malcolm and Mrs Munro use to help parties and trips were good
it did seem an enormous place at the time, the height of the ceiling etc. The sound of voices echoing through. It had that special feeling to it, we seldom missed a Sunday.
Do you remember when a man came from Peterhead to teach on the evils of Strong Drink?? ''You will all go to the bottom of the bottomless pit'' sort of style !!
Yes, I remember the Outings and the streamers on the bus. AND the singing! How we loved all of that. On the bus for our Barrogill Hall picnic, we always sang She'll be coming round the Mountain, with the verse, She'll be eating Willdag's biscuits!!
I totally remember going to the Barrogill hall Sunday school and all the picnics. I remember vividly singing 'rolling over, rolling over, my cup's full of running over' etc. Doing all the actions I can still see Nancy standing there with a pale blue skirt and jacket doing the actions!!
Sunday school picnics, streamers (so excited getting to put a streamer out the bus window), singing 'ye canna shove yer granny of a bus', pies, sand, being attacked by black headed gulls, plastic sandals, your best summer frock and baggies! the days of innocence eh
! This could be for another thread, but do you remember the Mission Tent coming to the Brae each summer - we sang such songs there too .... I loved it.
A friend was telling me her mother went to the Barrogill Hall as a little girl in the very early days - 1910s or before. There was a Meeting of some VIPs sitting on the platform with a huge bowl of fruit on the table in front of them. This little girl left her mother and strolled onto the platform and asked for an orange - a big treat at the time! Yes - she was given one.
Was definitely the Bridge Street church that it belonged to. We had to go to the Bridge Street church and it was the same people involved in both. Remember Mr Roy coming up to the house for his tea and cake!! We used to be well warned that when he came in we had to sit and not move or say a word. We knew fine well what would happen if we didn't
Can remember Sinclair Lyall and the other ladies who were Sunday school teachers - memory coming back now and I do think it was the Bridge Street church as when Andrew Roy first came to Wick he used to come there and help with the youth groups before he got the ball rolling for the one below the Bridge St church.
Remember all the sales of work, tables set for sitting down to tea and cakes too.
Playing badminton in the halls
Dances used to be held there too - before the Academy School changed into the Assembly Rooms and dances changed to being held there with all the big groups of the day coming up
Went to the hall on a Sunday afternoon to learn the good way, I remember waiting for the lady Nancy to put the money in the meter so we could get lights and heat for when we went in, got good memories of singing away and getting told stories about the loaves and the fish, the water and the wine.
That was in the mid to late seventies. It was Sunday school on the Sunday morning, Barrogill hall in the afternoon for me. my whole day Sunday was religion!
Think it finished not long after that.
I remember going to a Co-op treat in the hall in the mid 1940s. We had a go as you please concert (do your own thing) community singing then juice and baggies, ah sweet memory of life!
I don’t remember the actual age when you could go to the B.H. but every child in Pulteney was expected to join sooner or later. ''Is that bairn going till e Barrogill Hall yet?'' would be asked of the mother.
I remember introducing a little boy of about three, and after attending for a few weeks we arrived a bit late one particular Sunday. Sinclair Lyall I think was in full flow, and as wee Donald and I walked down the length of the hall to the front row, the eager boyagie could wait no longer and shouted oot ''For Christ's sake, Amen '' he was a quick learner and had the hang of it already! I turned bright pink as everyone giggled, but no comment was made from the Platform! Donald's Rite of Passage is forever marked on my memory.
In the late 1950s John Cormack ran record hop style dances for teenagers on Monday nights, they were very popular at the time.
Whilst speaking to an old Wick friend on the phone yesterday, of course I mentioned the Barrogill Hall and we had a good old blether with plenty giggles. She reminded me that it was never a concert at the B.H. but a..........
SOIREE !! or ........ A CAFE CHANSON !! she's right of course.
I can just remember the bairnies saying " Are ye comin' till e cafe chaansaan e nicht?"
Mind you they were great evenings with wonderful talent.
My friend also asked if there was a bell, she recalls a bell ringing for Sunday school in the early days - I don’t remember such a bell - do you?
Yes, I can remember the bell ringing - running up Barrogill Street to get in before bells stopped and the doors closed.
I don't think I made many trips over to 'Poltney' from the Wick side when I was young but I do remember going to a few parties, or socials as we called them, in the Barrogill Hall. I think they might have been put on by the Scouts. That was likely the late 50's or early 60's.
When I was talking on the phone with my cousin in the States yesterday, he was telling me that the Apex Jazz Club was going in the 60's and he played with them there.
The Barrogill Hall certainly made a big impression on all who posted their memories on the “org.” There are of course many other memories, some remember playing badminton in the hall and suddenly in the middle of the game the lights would suddenly go out and someone would have to run to the electric meter and put in another shilling.
Of all the memories, the greatest testament of all to the success of the hall was given by a Wicker, (or should we say a Poltney loon) when he was called up to the Army and was asked "What's your religion?" he answered "Barrogill Hallie."
The Northern Ensign of November 25th 1875 reported: -
“A Sabbath school in connection with Wick Free Church congregation and under the supervision of Mr Robertson of the Railway was opened in Wellington Street Pulteneytown on Sabbath evening. The Rev Renny attended the inaugural proceedings and 117 children attended with about 20 being found to be connected with existing Sabbath schools they were told that the object of the school was not to interfere with others and requested not to return. Of the others it is a sad fact that 46 between the age of 5 and 13 could not read! We trust this effort to reach and benefit a class in a district that has been greatly ignored will be abundantly successful.”
During the Cholera outbreak of 1832 a hospital was opened in Wellington Street and it is entirely possible that the above building was the former hospital.
In late 1884 the Office Bearers of Wick Free Church (Bridge Street) saw a need for a hall of their own in Upper Pulteneytown which they could use as a base for outreach into that community and to try to meet some of the social and religious needs. Although the fishing industry of the day brought great benefits to some, there was great deprivation and poor social conditions for many.
In September of 1885 the members of the congregation held a three-day Bazaar in the Temperance Hall in Louisburgh to raise sufficient funds for the erection of such a hall. Local lore has it that the fishermen of the day each sold a sample, or cran of herring and the proceeds went to meet the cost of the hall but that seems no more than myth and there is no record of that ever happening. There is however a record of Buckie fishermen giving the money from a nights fishing toward the cost of erecting the Roman Catholic Chapel in Wick in 1832, so perhaps events were scrambled. The cost of the New Pulteneytown Mission Hall appears to have been borne solely by the congregation.
This is how the Northern Ensign reported the event on Sept 30th 1885;
Bazaar in Wick
A Bazaar for the erection of a new mission hall in Pulteneytown was held in the Temperance Hall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday last. It is intended that the proposed hall shall, among other purposes offer accommodation for the District Sabbath School which for a number of years has met in the South Public School.
An active committee of ladies with Mrs. Doctor Banks as secretary exerted themselves to make the Bazaar a success and it may be said that there most sanguine expectations were more than realised. An immense quantity of useful ornamental work was provided, much of it by the ladies themselves and the rest contributed by friends from all parts of the country and some living in faraway lands. Many of the articles were of a more bulky and substantial character than are usually seen at Bazaars and for the disposal of these it was found necessary to issue subscription tickets.
The Temperance Hall was tastefully decorated for the occasion and when all was ready for the opening, the heavily laden and well arranged stalls presented to view one of the most attractive fancy fairs which have been seen in Wick.
As soon as the doors to the bazaar were opened on Thursday, shortly before noon, visitors arrived in large numbers and the hall was quite crowded by the time that business was formally commenced. Among those present, not including the stall holders and their assistants whose names are given below were:
The right Hon the Earl of Caithness Sir Tollemache Sinclair, Bart MP, Sir John Sinclair Bart Dunbeath and Lady Sinclair, Mr & Mrs. Barry of Keiss and Miss Goodart; Mr & Mrs Horne of Stirkoke; Mrs Bentley Innes of Thrumster, Miss Bentley Innes of Yorkshire and Mr Harry Bentley Innes; Admiral Rutherford & Mrs & Miss Rutherford and Miss Cox, Pulteney House; Rev G Renny, Wick; Sheriff Harper and the Misses Harper, Bellvue; Provost Rae, Wick; Mrs Adam of Lynegar; Mrs Phin, High Street; Mr Gilchrist, Commercial Bank; Miss Reddie Free Church Manse Pulteneytown; Mrs & Misses Robertson Elgin Villa; Mrs Grant, Gillock; Miss Lizzie Etta Grant, Killimster; Mrs James Stephen Thistle Cottage; Mr J T Reid, Wick; Mrs Meiklejohn, Halkirk; Mr, Mrs & Miss McEwen, Wick; Mr D Bremner, High Street; Miss Thompson, Lybster; Miss Stewart, Lybster; Mr &Mrs Magnus Baikie; Miss Bella Baikie, Scalesburn; Miss Cormack, Harbour Place; Rev Mr Clark & Mrs Clark, Wick Parish Church, Dr Banks, Wick; Dr Elder, Edinburgh; Dr John & Dr A Alexander, Wick; Mr & Mrs D Swanson, Wick; Mrs J M Sutherland, Wick; Mr A Sutherland SSC, Wick; Mr Shepherd, Solicitor, Wick; Misses Kirk, Wick; Mr & Mrs Gunn, and Mr John & W Gunn Sibster; Mrs Henderson Royal Hotel Thurso; Mrs Brown, Watten; Rev Mr Connon and Mrs Connon, The Parsonage; Mr A Rae, Bookseller, Mr & Mrs Nicolson, High Street; Mrs Stobie, Pulteneytown; Mr Donald Sutherland Liverpool; Miss McAdie, Union Street; Mr Scott, Noss; Mr Cormack, Solicitor; Mr C Bruce, Merchant; Mr & Mrs Nicolson, Dempster Street; Mr John Sandison, Merchant; Mrs G M Sutherland, Sinclair Terrace, Mr Barron CE; Miss Bruce, Mowat Lane; Mr Andrew Louttit, Wick; Mr & Mrs R Sinclair Union Street; Mrs Thomas Murray Thurso; Miss Keith, Thurso; Mrs Henderson Gow, Pulteneytown; Mrs D Miller, Pulteneytown; Miss Stewart, Barbara Place; Miss Gunn & Miss Bara Gunn, Union Street; Miss Geddes, High Street; Miss Miller Mowat Lane; Mrs W Brown, Rumster; Miss Mackay, Kirk; Miss Low Willowbank; Miss Steven, Trinity, Edinburgh; Miss Steven, Rose Street; Mr Robertson, Fishery Office; Misses Manson, Louisburgh; Mr & Mrs Tait Harbour Road; Mr Young, Godorich, Canada; Misses Bain, High Street; Miss Flett, Pulteneytown; Mrs J B Bruce, Hawthorn Villa; Mr & Mrs Jas. Sinclair, Coach Road; Mrs Angus, Coach Road; Mrs Dundas, Kincardine on Forth; Mrs John Sandison, Coach Road; Mr James Bremner Greenigoe Manor &c &c There were many other arrivals at a later part of the day and a complete list would include the names of the whole community.
A few minutes after twelve o’ clock noon, Rev Mr Renny announced the hundredth psalm which was sung by the audience, Miss Fraser Halkirk accompanying on the organ belonging to No 3 stall. Mr Renny then offered prayer. Mr Renny next said that he had the honour and pleasure in introducing the Earl of Caithness. As his Lordship might be said to live as much upon the ocean as on dry land and as the undertaking of the erection of a Mission Hall had in view the moral, social and spiritual welfare of the fishermen and their families, it was quite appropriate that Lord Caithness should be invited to open their fair (applause) after some other remarks Mr Renny formally introduced the Earl.
Lord Caithness said that it was his pleasant duty to attend that day to open the Bazaar which was for a very good object, namely for the erecting of a Mission Hall in Pulteneytown, he wished every success to the undertaking and as there were so many beautiful things on the stalls which no doubt they were anxious to spent their money upon, he would not further detain them but would declare the Bazaar formally opened. (Applause)
Provost Rae said that he had been requested by the ladies of the Bazaar Committee to propose a vote of thanks to the Earl of Caithness for coming there that morning at considerable inconvenience to open the Bazaar. (Applause) The ladies considered themselves highly fortunate in securing the Earl of Caithness, Lord Lieutenant of the County, on this occasion and they wished to express their very grateful thanks for his courtesy and kindness in so readily agreeing to their request. (Applause) his Lordship was always ready to do anything in his power to promote any good object either in the town or in the county, he therefore had much pleasure in proposing a cordial and hearty vote of thanks to his Lordship and while he did so in the name of the ladies of the Bazaar, he was sure it was joined in by everyone present and the community at large. (Applause) Business was forthwith commenced and large purchases were made at all the stalls. It is impossible to give anything like an idea of the character of the goods displayed for sale but in mentioning as follows the names of the ladies in charge, we shall indicate some of the leading articles which they were busy engaged in disposing of: -
No 1 Stall
Mrs Renny, Mrs A Rae, Mrs W Murray, Mrs G Gunn; assisted by Miss Gunn and Mrs Mack, Sibster, Miss Renny, Miss Cargill, Arbroath, Miss Corner Parliament Square, Misses Gunn, Dale, miss Ferguson Westerdale, Miss Miller Scrabster, Miss Horne Kirk’s Buildings, Miss Crowe Wellington Street, Miss Munro Dingwall, Miss Davidson Oldhall, and Miss Millicent Fraser Halkirk. Here was to be seen a variety of African imports, Ostrich feathers, Ostrich eggs some beautifully painted, Angora mats, Indian bronze ornaments and Indian sandalwood boxes, hand painted flowerpots for hall, and a magnificent hand painted draught screen (by Miss Crowe) curiously designed work bags, gypsy tables, camp stools, flower painted mirrors, plaques, brackets, sashes, smoking caps and a thousand things besides.
No 2 Stall
Mrs John Banks, Mrs Charles Bruce, Mrs John Sandison, Milton House, Mrs John Robertson Breadalbane Terrace, assisted by; Mrs W Bruce, Miss Cormack Argyle Square, Miss Bruce Mount Hooly, Miss Sandison, Miss Banks, Miss Arnold, Misses Georgeson Sinclair Terrace, Misses Clyne Dalemore, Miss Charlotte Baikie, Miss Maggie Corner and Miss Robertson Breadalbane Terrace.
On this stall was displayed hand painted articles of such diverse kinds as tables and cushions. The Indian curiosities included a fan of Peacock’s feathers, table covers &c several pretty Spanish water jars were in stock and among the other goods were mantle piece drapes, fender stools and blankets, toilet sets, slipper bags, newspaper racks, plaques, chrystoleum (sic) view of Edinburgh, mats, tidies and brackets in endless number and variety.
No 3 Stall
Mrs Rae, Mrs D Cormack, Mrs Barron, Mrs Nicolson Watten Cottage, Mrs J T Reid; assisted by, Misses Cleghorn, Miss Simpson, Miss Maribell MacLennan, Miss Alice Gunn Watten, Miss Fraser & Miss Anna Fraser Halkirk, Mrs Scott Noss, Miss Miller West Park, Miss Georgina Sinclair and Miss Catherine Leith.
A handsome and elaborately carved five octave organ was a conspicuous feature in connection with this stall. A place was found for it on the platform next to the stall where it attracted a good deal of attention. The next valuable article was an elegant drawing room chair. The fine arts included a pretty watercolour sketch of Loch Watten by Mr Tom Scott whose fame as an artist is now well established. We ought also to mention here the beautiful plaques hand painted by Mrs Horn of Burgie House and by Mrs Barron of Wick. There was an excellent display of ottomans, afternoon tea tables, mantle piece borders, fender stools, fire screens &c.
No 4 Stall
Mrs Alexander, Mrs R Robertson, Mrs W Cormack and Mrs Banks; assisted by Mrs Henderson West Park, Mrs Stobie, Mrs W Miller, Mrs & Miss Gill Blingery, Mrs B Leith, Mrs Scott, Noss, Miss J C Ferguson, Miss Kate MacLennan, Miss Jessie Bremner Argyle Square, Miss Kate Kirk, Miss Park Glasgow, Miss Agnes Brown Clyth and Miss Mary Leith Sinclair Terrace.
This stall and a supplementary table in the centre of the hall were abundantly furnished. Ottomans and ornamental tables made an excellent show and there were likewise fire screens, vase, painted flower pots, Lisbon pottery jars, chairs, fender stools, banner screens, handkerchiefs, sashes, wall panels, dolls and other articles much too numerous to mention.
Refreshment Stall
Mrs Jas. Stephen, Misses Brown Clyth, Mrs Nicol Caledonian Hotel, Miss Munro Telford Street, Miss Maggie Horne, Miss Annie Nicolson, Miss Peters London and Miss Gow.
The viands were abundant and admirably served while the tariffs were on a most reasonable scale. The bill of fare was on the table and one saw at a glance what he might have and how much he would have to pay for it. The arrangements in this department should be copied at all Bazaars.
Game Stall
Miss Bremner Argyle Square, Miss Robertson Francis Street
Grouse, Ptarmigan, Hare and rabbits represented the game section and the stall was also well supplied with poultry, butter and eggs; quality, first class and prices moderate
The Parcels Stall
Under the charge of Mr James Banks who had a busy time of it taking in and giving out parcels on the “left luggage” principle with the only difference that the payment per parcel was set at one half of what is exacted at railway stations.
Business was suspended at four o’ clock and resumed at six when the hall was crowded with visitors till closing time. The day’s drawings amounted to £406
Second Day
The doors were again opened at twelve noon, and notwithstanding the large amount of goods sold the previous day, the stalls showed no perceptible signs of depletion.
The proceedings commenced with the Rev Clark engaging in prayer. The Rev Renny said that they met in a spirit of gratitude, yesterday he had the honour of introducing the Earl of Caithness, a representative of the peers of the realm; and he had the honour now of introducing Sheriff Harper. It was right that in such an undertaking that they should have the countenance of the Law, and none could represent it better than the Sheriff. He existed for the repression of crime and this undertaking aimed at the prevention of crime and therefore they were fellow workers in the same field. (Applause)
Sheriff Harper said that Mr Renny had remarked the previous day that that was the place for business and not for speeches and therefore he would make no speech on that occasion. He would simply declare the Bazaar open and in doing so, express the pleasure which he had in being present and the strong hope that the Bazaar would be a successful one. (Applause)
Ex Baillie Bruce said that he had been asked by the Committee ladies to express their warmest thanks to Sheriff Harper for his kindness in opening the Bazaar that day. The Sheriff had not been long amongst them but he had, during the comparatively short time he had been there, manifested a keen desire to encourage every movement which had for its object the moral and social welfare of the community. In the name of the committee of management he had to offer Sheriff Harper their warmest thanks for opening the Bazaar that day. (Applause)
A large business was again done the drawings for the day amounting to £256.
Third Day
On Saturday morning the stalls had a dismantled appearance, but by the time that selling commenced, they had, by “ingenious dressing” a fairly well furnished look and value for a considerable sum of money was still estimated to be on hand.
The Rev Mr Renny offered prayer at noon and afterwards formally opened the Bazaar for the day. He then said that he thought that was the best time, rather than during the bustle of finishing up in the afternoon, to convey thanks to those to whom they were greatly indebted for the success of the undertaking. First he had to mention the committee of ladies under whose auspices the Bazaar was held. They certainly had a whole year to prepare for the work which they had done so well and though as in all voyages there might be breezes, and head winds, these were all forgotten as they came near the shore. They were also much indebted to the committee of young men who had advanced, at the beginning, a little capital and had kept up till the end their interest in the enterprise. They were also greatly indebted to those who had assisted at the stalls, not forgetting the gentleman who has so assiduously attended the parcels stall. They must also acknowledge the kindness of friends at home and abroad who had so handsomely contributed to the stalls; and thanks were of course also due to the purchasers. He had also to mention the gentleman who had so kindly added to the harmony of the proceedings by discoursing music on the piano; and he must also refer to the gentlemen who had watched during the night to see that no harm had come to the goods. Next came the doorkeepers, who, with Mr John Bruce at their head had rendered such excellent service. He must be excused for mentioning a certain gentleman whose activity, enthusiasm and good humour had done so much for the success of the Bazaar. He understood that he had won a wedding cake and he hoped that he would select one of the young ladies behind the stalls and crown the proceedings with a wedding feast; he referred to Mr George Ross. (Applause) they were also much indebted to the gentlemen who had fitted up the stalls and decorated the hall. Mr Renny then announced that the two days’ drawings amounted to £662 which with £20 in the bank made £682. They would be glad if the total came up to £800 but would be thankful to see £750. They would without doubt, have to make sacrifices in disposing of the remaining articles but that could not be avoided.
The sale then went on very briskly and by four o’ clock the whole of the goods were cleared off. The total proceeds for the three days including £20 in the bank £767.11.1 the details of the drawings are as follows:
No 1 Stall £187.15.0
No 2 145.16.8
No3 130.01.7
No4 183.05.8½
Refreshments 32.09.10½
Game 16.05.7
Parcels 2.07.7
Weighing Machine 0.09.10
Entrance Money 18.19.6
Donations ¬¬¬¬ 20.00
767.14.1
Mention should be made of the important help rendered to the Bazaar by a committee of gentlemen consisting of Messrs W Sutherland MA West Banks; (Secretary) W Nicolson, Grocer; David Tait, Grocer; George Gunn, North Public School; George J Ross, Bookseller and John Gow Pulteneytown. This committee started the enterprise with a gift of £50.
Mr Townsend, teacher of music enlivened the business in the hall by performing at intervals on the pianoforte, as on all such occasions Mr John Calder, Burgh Officer, rendered important service from the opening to the closing of the Bazaar.
It is worth noting that the amount raised away back in 1885 would be worth today (2009) £45,935.
There now follows an extract minute of the Wick Free Church Deacon’s court and their dealings with the erection of the hall, kindly transcribed by Mrs Elizabeth Henderson.
2 November 1885 Deacon’s Court Minutes
Page 63: It was reported to the Court that a suitable site for the Mission Hall presently possessed by certain members of this congregation can be obtained at the price of £51.7.9 with an annual Feu duty of £2.10- and 10/- of street money being the price they paid for it; the ground being situated at the junction of Barrogill Street with Huddart Street Pulteneytown. After consideration and information from several office bearers present the court being satisfied that no better locality could be found and that the price is reasonable agreed to accept the same and instruct Mr David Cormack Solicitor to have the necessary transfer completed in favour of the members of the Deacons Court and their successors in office.
The Court considered it advisable to associate with the members of court the following gentlemen to act along with them in carrying out the erection of the contemplated building, viz Messrs George I Ross, David Tait, John Gow, Alex Rae and Wm Sutherland who along with certain of the office bearers contributed materially to the initiation and success of the Bazaar and also five male teachers in the Mission Sabbath School Upper Pulteneytown to be elected by the teachers of the school. It was further resolved to request Mr James Barron CE a member of the congregation to join with the office bearers and committee in their efforts to complete the erection of the Hall. Thereafter it was agreed to hold the first meeting of the Committee for this object on the 13th inst in the Session Room of the Church at 8 o’clock PM
13 November 1885
Page 65: After consideration it was agreed to request Mr Barron to draw out a plan of the proposed building for a Mission Hall to hold about 500sitters and to give the estimated cost thereof but not to exceed £600. The following committee was appointed to act along with Mr Barron in preparing a rough plan or sketch of the building — which he has kindly consented to execute; the said sketch to be submitted to the general committee prior to a regular plan being prepared, viz Bailie Reiach Messrs Wm Nicolson, Donald Harrow, George I Ross, Donald Swanson and David Tait, Mr Barron Convenor.
23 November 1885
The Clerk intimated that he had received a memorandum from Messrs George I Ross and William Nicolson intimating that the promissory note they had granted for the purchase price of the ground, which the Deacon’s Court had accepted on 2nd November as a site for the Mission Hall was now due, and wished the court to settle the same and to pay the Feu duty and Street Money likewise due on the two feus. The Court instructed Mr Reiach and his Clerk on their receiving from Messrs Ross and Nicolson the documents giving them a Title** to the ground to operate upon the Deposit Receipt in the Bank of Scotland to the extent of retiring the promissory note, the amount therein being Fifty one pounds seven shillings and nine pence and paying the Feu duty amounting to Two pounds ten shillings with the street money ten shillings in all £54.7.9.
(** The first Minute in the Session book dated 1915 notes that a Title has not yet been received!)
1 December 1885
The Clerk laid before the meeting the plans for the Mission Hall prepared by Mr Barron. After consideration of the same it was agreed t approve of the plans and the same to the Committee at last meeting and to request Mr Barron to make up specifications for the work and the committee was instructed to advertise for offers.
14 December 1885
Page 68: Mr Barron read the several specification prepared by him for the Mason, Carpenter, Plasterer, Plumber and Slater Work for the Mission Hall Upper Pulteneytown. Thereafter it was agreed to request parties offering to execute the work to have their offers lodged on or before Wednesday 23rd Inst.
28 December 1885
The Clerk laid upon the table sixteen Tenders he had received from tradesmen in town for the several departments of the work in erecting and completing the Mission Hall Pulteneytown. On these being opened and read the following offers were accepted for the
Mason work and Slater works that of Messrs A & A Finlayson Builders 31 Brown Place Pulteneytown for the sum of Two hundred and Ninety-Three pounds. For the Carpenter, Glazier and Painter work that of Mr William Durrand, Joiner George St Wick for the sum of One Hundred and Ninety pounds. For the Plaster work that of Mr James Smith Plasterer Dempster Street Pulteneytown for the sum of Forty-Nine pounds and for the Plumber and Gas fitting work that of William Johnstone and Son Wick for the sum of Forty-One pounds ten shillings. The Clerk was instructed to intimate to the successful offerers that their offers had been accepted.
Mr Barron kindly offered to superintend the work while in course of execution and the following committee was appointed to act along with Mr Barron in carrying out any re-arrangement of details found necessary during the progress of the work — Dr Banks, Geo I Ross and the Clerk.
3 May 1886
Page 74: It was resolved that the inscription on the tablet on the gable of the Mission Hall shall be “Wick Free Church Mission Hall Erected 1886”. (NOTE: See page 13 of Mr Roy’s booklet— there is no mention in the Minutes of why there is no inscription on the plaque)
The subcommittee intimated that the contractor (Messrs Finlayson) for the Mason work had offered to erect a circular window in the south gable for the sum of Three pounds ten shillings. The committee were authorised to accept of this offer.
14 December 1886
Page 81: The Clerk intimated that the Sub Committee had taken offers for eighty (80) moveable seats for the Hall the lowest offer being that of Mr George McAdie viz £42.0.0 The subcommittee requested Mr McAdie to supply 10 additional seats of the same size and pattern as those offered for and at the same price. The commit likewise requested Mr Smith contractor for the plasterwork to run a cornice along the ceiling of the Hall the price to be five pence (5d) per running foot. The meeting approves of the work authorised by the subcommittee. Certain correspondence between the subcommittee and the contractor for the carpenter work was read from which it appeared that he was unnecessarily delaying the work. It was agreed to add the following gentlemen to the subcommittee and to wait upon the contractor to urge him on with the work and to take any other steps they may consider necessary, viz Provost Reiach and Wm Nicolson.
The Clerk intimated that John Macdonald Cameron Esq. MP had presented a bell for the belfry of the Hall and that he had written Mr Cameron acknowledging its receipt. The meeting records its most cordial thanks to Mr Cameron MP for this most handsome gift and instruct the Clerk to write him to that effect
Thereafter the subcommittee were instructed to obtain offers for a pavement and railing at the Hall along Huddart Street and for fencing in the vacant Feu at Barrogill Street and likewise for the pavement at south end of Hall.
12 April 1887
Page 84: An account .... Messrs A & A Finlayson for extra work done at the Hall was laid before the committee when it was resolved to request the contractor to make good the following work which has been pointed out to them as being defective viz;
Spur stone on the north west corner of the Hall as being too small and split.
The Freestone corners, door and window rybats (ingoes) which are split, doorsteps in Huddart Street insufficient in quality for purpose and otherwise defective
the pointing on the east side and south end of Hall not according to Specification.
Freestone lintel of fireplace not in accordance with Specification, plastering in-goes of windows on west elevation not executed. Thereafter the committee took into consideration the delay which the carpenter is manifesting in executing his contract when it was resolved to write him stating that before resorting to ulterior measures competent to them this committee desire to know from him why he has not completed his contract. The Clerk was instructed to state to the contractor that unless the committee hear from him tomorrow it may be beyond his power to stop the proceedings indicated.
27 April 1887
There was laid before the meeting a letter from Messrs A & A Finlayson in reply to copy of minute sent to them of meeting held on 12th inst, in which they state that the defects in Freestone are not worth
mentioning. The pointing would, they state, have been done according to Specification “but we had it in a different way from what your Architect says he intended”. The work done by us is superior to Specification as we have given you keyed pointing and the Specification does not say so. We are prepared to refer all differences to arbitration and extras not in our former account will also be laid before him which we have found we are entitled to. With reference to plastering of windows, it is not in our department nor Specification. Your reply on Thursday 28th inst is requested to save further trouble.”
After consideration of the foregoing letter it was resolved that the Clerk send the following reply
Dear Sirs
Mission Hall
In reply to yours of 26th inst I am instructed to say that the Committee cannot agree with you in thinking that the defects in Freestone are not worth mentioning, on the contrary the defects are of much importance. The committee are entitled to have good workmanship and materials and have resolved to insist on having them. In regard to the pointing the Specifications are most explicit — leaving no doubt as to how the work should have been done and it therefore lies with you to make it in accordance with the Specification.
The Committee will be prepared to consider further just account for extras you may render.
The Committee decline to appoint any arbitrator as they consider the Specification and General conditions ample for their purpose and they now call on you to complete your contract in accordance with the Specification and that without delay.
In the absence of the Clerk, Mr Nicolson was appointed Clerk pro tern and instructed to sign the foregoing letter for the Sub Committee and to forward the copy thereof this evening.
9 May 1887
Page 88A letter from Messrs Finlayson Contractors for the mason work of the Hall was read when it was resolved to reply to the same as follows
Wick May 9th 1887
Wick Free Church Mission Hall
Messrs A & A Finlayson
Builders, Pulteneytown
In reply to yours of 2’ inst I am instructed to inform you that the freestone defects were pointed out to you during the progress of the work and that the freestone steps were objected to immediately after being laid down. I am also requested to state that the Architect has not yet passed any portion of your work as the same was only completed about a month ago. I am likewise instructed to direct your attention to the General Conditions in the Specification viz; “The Contractor to uphold the same for a period of twelve months after completion all to the satisfaction of the employers or any competent Inspectors they may appoint.
“The committee ascertain from the Architect that cleaning out the present pointing in the east wall and South gable cannot now be done but at considerable cost and that in the event of it being cleaned out the Specification does not state that it is to be flat pointed or plastered. The committee are desirous that this matter should be adjusted and they acquit themselves of all blame in the delay which has occurred in setting the
An immediate reply is requested.
Bottom of Page 88— Deacons Court Minute: The correspondence which had taken place between the Sub Committee of the Mission Hall and Messrs Finlayson the contractors was read to the Court when it was resolved to request the Sub Committee while adhering to the opinions laid down in their letters to make a compromise so that the account of the contractor might be settled.
14 May 1887
A letter from Messrs Finlayson on 12th inst was read and after consideration of the same it was resolved to request them to attend a meeting of this committee on Monday evening first the 16th inst to be held in the Session Room of the Church at 8 o’clock to take into consideration the matters in dispute and their account for extra work. The Clerk was instructed to intimate to Wm Durran the contractor for the carpenter that the committee have made arrangements which necessitate his delivering up the key to them not later than the 11th June next.
16 May 1887
The Minute of previous sub-committee meeting was read and approved. The Messrs A&A Finlayson Contractors were present as requested.
The account for extra work done by them at the Mission Hall which they had rendered to the committee was taken up and discussed with them.
Thereafter it was resolved to ask the Contractor to hand in an account giving credit for the following works unexecuted and deficient
1. The pointing and painting of the joints of the east wall (Huddart Street) and south gable (Barrogill Street) not being executed in accordance with specification an allowance to be made therefor.
2. The freestone lintel of fireplace being smaller than specified — difference to be allowed for.
3. The freestone ingoes of door in Huddart Street not being as specified was subject to deduction
4. The spur stone in west gable was requested to be removed and a new one furnished or an allowance to be made.
5. The two steps at the door in Huddart Street being split and otherwise defective al allowance must be made or to be replaced.
On further consideration of the account it was found that on the Upper
Walls an allowance of £2.3.3 should be deducted from the account.
The difference in value between the slate nails used and those specified
to be ascertained.
On the circular window in Barrogill Street 10/- allowed by the
contractor
31 May 1887
A letter from Messrs A&A Finlayson was read and considered when the Committee regarded the sum of 15/- allowed by the contractors in their letter for the pointing and painting not executed was quite inadequate. It was resolved to accept of a deduction of £2.2.0 for this deficient work. For the freestone lintel not in accordance with specification, 5/- instead of 3/6 to be allowed
for the defective spur stone, 10/6 or a new one to be supplied according to plan and specification. For the defective Freestone steps the Committee will accept 21/- or two new ones these to be to the satisfaction of the Architect.
With respect to the Upper Walls the Committee adhere to the sum stated to Messrs Finlayson at last meeting viz 26/9 — instead of three pounds ten shillings as charged by them. The Committee will allow for the difference on slate nails the sum of 15/-.
The respective amounts as above with 10/- allowed off circular window shows the balance due to Messrs Finlayson to be £88.18.3 and that sum the Clerk was instructed to offer them for a final settlement of their account but upon the distinct understanding that its non-acceptance shall not prejudice or affect the rights and claims of this committee and the Deacons Court or preclude the withdrawal of the offer now made.
6 June 1887
There was laid before the meeting a letter from Messrs A&A Finlayson contractors in reply to copy of minute of 31 ult. sent them.
After due consideration of the said reply and the committee seeing that the terms for a final settlement offered the Messrs Finlayson has not been accepted by them. Resolve to withdraw all previous offers made to them and not accept the offer made in their letter now before the meeting, and have to request them to proceed forthwith and put all the work pointed out to them as defective and not in accordance with the specification in a workmanlike and proper manner has had been specified.
And the Clerk was instructed to send a copy of this minute to Messrs A&A Finlayson.
28 July 1887
The Clerk laid before the meeting the following letter received from
Messrs A&A Finlayson:
31 Brown Place, Pulteneytown July 26th 1887
Sir
With reference to your letter of 1st June — after due consideration we
accept the offer made by you.
Yours Truly
A&A Finlayson (signed)
After deliberation it was resolved to pay the Messrs Finlayson the balance due them as stated in the committee’s minute of 31 May and the Clerk was instructed to pay them the same upon receipt being granted by them in full of all claims.
The account of Mr James Smith Plasterer was submitted to the meeting showing the balance due him to be twenty pounds (f20) which account was certified by the Architect as correct and the clerk was instructed to pay the sum.
5 September 1887 (Deacons Court and Sub Committee)
Page 94: It was reported to the meeting by Mr Barron that there was a probability of the Mission Hall being completed for occupancy in a few days. In which circumstances it was resolved to invite the teachers of the Pulteneytown Mission Sabbath School and the teachers of the congregational to a conference to be held in the Mission Hall on Monday evening the 19th inst at 8 o’clock with a view to arrange for services connected with the opening of the Hall; the transfer of the Mission Sabbath School from its present premises to the Hall and to deliberate upon Mission Work of the district generally. The Clerk was instructed to send an excerpt of this minute to Mr Sutherland Superintendent of the Mission Sabbath School Pulteneytown and to Mr Gunn Superintendent of the Congregational Sabbath School that they may intimate the service to their respective teachers.
7 September 1887
There was laid before the meeting a plan of the platform by Mr Barrow which the committee after examination adopted, and requested Messrs Barron and Ross to obtain an estimate for same and in the event of Mr Barron considering the offer a reasonable one to accept it and to have the work proceeded with without delay. They were also requested to obtain six chairs suitable for the platform and anterooms and likewise the other articles requisite for the anterooms. It was resolved to put up a malleable iron railing on each side of the steps in Huddart Street and a wooden gate at the north east corner of the Hall. The committee now appointed was requested to report as to the cost of building an enclosing dyke in Barrogill Street and also as to the cost of size colouring the inside walls of the Hall.
14 September 1887
The committee along with Mr Barron CE had during the day visited the Mission Hall and have examined the work executed by the carpenter Mr Durran. On examination they found the following defects viz “Defects Doors — a number of the doors are ill fitted and hung. Joints filled with putty, panels not according to plan, Locks not of specified value. Imitation hinges on outside doors too small. Stops and facings not properly dressed, full of holes and altogether too rough and untradesmanlike.
Windows — the windows are all ill fitted at opening panes and a number of them not made as specified, eyes, opening cords and fasteners too small.
Louvre ventilators on roof too small and not according to plan, Ventilator on south gable ill made and rough.
WCs — the WCs are not properly made nor as specified.
Gratings at outside doors to be fitted in”
The Clerk was instructed to write Mr Durran with a copy of the above and to ask him how he proposes to remedy the defects complained of and when the same can be completed so that he may receive the balance of the cash of the contract price of the work. And to request an immediate reply that the same may be laid before this committee tomorrow evening.
19 September 1887 — in Mission Hall, Deacons Court met in
conference with the Teachers of Pulteneytown Mission Sabbath
School, the Teachers of Wick Free Church Sabbath School and the
Gentlemen associated with the Court in the erection of the Mission
Hall
It was unanimously resolved that the Hall be granted for united evangelistic services for a few weeks beginning with the 21st of October and that these meetings constitute the opening of the Hall.
It was likewise resolved that services shall be held in the Hall every Sabbath evening and on one evening during the week. But with regard to the Sabbath evening services the Hall be offered to the North East Coast Mission should they accept of it for such. In the event of their not accepting this offer, it was agreed to arrange with them so that the hours of the respective services on that evening should not conflict. It was agreed that the Mission Sabbath School be transferred to this Hall as soon as all the appointments are completed.
Thereafter on the motion of the Moderator it was unanimously and cordially agreed to record the gratitude of this meeting to Mr Barron CE and to express to that gentleman its sincere thanks for the valuable services he has in designing the Hall — drawing the plans, providing specifications of the work for the several contractors and superintending the same while in progress. And the clerk was instructed to send an excerpt of this minute to Mr Barron.
Barrogill Hall opening
Northern Ensign Sept 28th 1887
United Evangelistic services begin on Monday first in the New Mission Hall, Pulteneytown. The merchants of Wick and Pulteneytown have agreed unanimously to shut their shops promptly at eight o’ clock (until further notice) beginning on Monday night first.
Northern Ensign October 5th 1887
The Pulteneytown Mission Hall has now been finished and the first meeting for religious purposes was held in it on Sabbath evening last. The hall is well adapted for the purpose for which it is intended, namely a centre for evangelical work in upper Pulteneytown
The architect was Mr Barron CE who gave his services gratuitously. This generous action on his part has been recognised by the Deacons Court of Wick Free Church, which, at a meeting on the 19th ult. unanimously and cordially agreed to record their gratitude to Mr Barron “for the valuable services he has rendered in designing the hall providing specifications for the work for the several contractors and also superintending the same while in progress” and the clerk was instructed to send an excerpt of this minute to Mr Barron.
The hall will comfortably seat 500 persons and those who have tested the acoustic properties of the building say they are excellent. The first of a series of evangelistic meetings in which nearly all the ministers of the town are to take part was held in the Mission Hall on the evening of Sabbath last. The hour announced for the meeting was half past six but by six o’ clock the hall was crowded in every part and hundreds were unsuccessful in obtaining standing room. Amongst those on the platform were, the Rev Messrs Renny, Clark, Hewlett, Brown and Roberton, Rev Mr Renny presided and after the introduction services he delivered an address in the course of which he referred to the uses to which it is intended the hall shall be put. Addresses were also delivered by Rev Mr Clark and Mr Charles Houston, Draper. Meetings are to be held in the hall each evening this week commencing at eight o’ clock.
In 1902 it was thought that the hall was still too small and they built an extension comprising a small hall which was used as a primary Sunday school, a large kitchen and an entrance from Huddart Street in addition to the main door facing Barrogill Street. At one time one of the largest flagstones in Pulteney was adjacent to the front door but at some point this disappeared.
Above the front door is a large blank plaque, the local story is that the office bearers of Wick Free Church were going to inscribe Wick Free Church Hall on this plaque but this so incensed the people of Pulteney that this intention was never carried out. There is mention of this intention in the minutes of the Deacon’s court but no mention of unrest or anger in Pulteney is made either in the minutes or in the local press of the time.
The Sunday school flourished and frequent evangelical services were held by the East Coast Mission; during the week a sisterhood met. The hall was used by the Post Office to sort parcels at Christmas; Scouts and Sea Cadets used the hall at times, and there were jumble sales and concerts. During the Second World War, the Huts and Canteens Committee of the Church of Scotland used this hall and the Boys’ Brigade Hall in Oag’s Lane in Wick for the welfare of servicemen. After the war the Sunday school continued its good work under the leadership of Sinclair Lyall in the main hall while Nancy Anderson supervised the younger children in the small hall. One of the teachers was John Milne, jeweller who would to invite his class to choose one of the Psalms and to their astonishment John would repeat the Psalm from memory. On the subject of memory, later in this article there is a collection of memories of the Barrogill Hall gleaned from the message board pages of caithness.org in early 2009.
In the late 1950s and early 1960s the late John Cormack, (he of best chips in Wick fame) ran regular dances for teenagers which were hugely popular, still later in the '70s came the advent of disco-dancing. Robert Stevenson was the leader of the youth club running these events and the story goes that Lady Jessamine of Thrumster House was invited to be guest of honour at an anniversary disco and after a short speech and indulging herself with a slice of the anniversary cake, she then joined the big crowd of teenagers on the floor of the hall where she danced head and shoulders above all to Bill Hayley’s "Rock Around the Clock".
The Barrogill Hall meant many things to many people it undoubtedly served the people of Wick very well over the years and a thread of memory was opened on Caithness.org in late 2008, read what memories it brought back;
I am one of the many folk who used to go to Sunday School and attend the parties and picnics. Your bag of goodies - usually an empire biscuit, a couple of sandwiches, sometimes a sausage roll or pie out of Wildags - occasionally an old penny sweetie was in there too - but it was great everyone swapping sandwiches and bits and bobs, nothing went to waste. Even if the sandwiches were covered in sand when on the picnic folk eat them saying a little bit of dirt did not hurt anyone.
Can remember Sunday School teacher was Jennifer Mackay - now Spence.
The place used to be alive with youngsters, but when came near Christmas Party or picnic time the numbers trebled - wonder why?
I remember e' Barrogill Hall and Sinclair Lyall.
Funnily enough I was trailing through Groats from 1962 in the library yesterday and there was a picture and article about him....wish I'd read it now!
Certainly remember picnic bags, a fire in the Hall and lots of kids probably sent there to give their mum's a bit of peace for a while! That's what I call the good old days
Thank you for your memories...
Pat, I think you are much younger -.
Dirdyweeker mentions the fire... Do you mean the huge belly stove with the long chimney reaching to the roof?
On cold winter days the stove would be red hot, how we loved to sit close to it.
I think there was a kitchen and another room at the back where we would change our clothes for Plays or concerts.
On the Huddart Street side there was a flight of stairs - near Willdag Miller, and the main door was in Rutherford Street - hope I'm right.
Speaking of Willdag, on Sundays in summer, we would have ice cream made by him - you supplied your own jug, and ran furiously home before it melted !
The street was Barrogill St not Rutherford St - that’s where the Hall got its name from I believe.
Steps were on Huddart St side, through the back was where you did get changed for plays etc, there was a big room or two not sure, kitchen, toilets and a wide corridor to the steps.
Sinclair Lyall was there but I cannot put a face to him at all - sometimes you cannot remember.
Remember the pot bellied black stove that used to throw out a lot of heat - it was great when you came in cold and wet, did not take long to dry but then when you left - oh did you feel the cold, made getting home that bit faster!
Remember going to the Scouts concert there. They used a lot of the Caithness language in their sketches. Just wish I could remember. oh dear......! My sister had her wedding reception there in the 50's
The thing that sticks in my mind the most about the Barrogill Hall, is the size of the doors inside. Maybe it was because I was small at the time but to me they were huge. I also seem to remember a stage in the main hall. Loved the picnics to Dunbeath with races and the baggies. Can also remember putting streamers out the bus window. Great days
My memories of the Barrogill Hall are when it took on a different role in the month of December. It was there that the Post Office had their "Over-Flow" Sorting Office when the main sorting office in the market Square couldn't cope with all the mails during the "Christmas-Rush" period.
Jimmy Miller almost permanently unemployed (Late of Argyle Sq. & son of Neil the joiner) got a job there each year as a loader. His job was to meet the train and load the hired mails lorries we each day. I was Boss at the temporary Sorting Office at the time, when one day Jimmy asked if it was time for him to go to the station. I noticed my watch had stopped so I picked up the telephone to check the correct time
(You know ...@ the third stroke it will be four twenty-nine and three seconds etc) When I heard the time I told Jimmy to get a move on & I let him listen to the speaking-clock. Not being used to a telephone Jimmy took it in his hands cradle-like as if it were a baby and put his ear to the receiver. Then to my utter disbelief he said " She do at all ‘e time”?
Those were the days, Nancy used to the teacher, when I went Anne Macbeth and Reenie Malcolm and Mrs Munro use to help parties and trips were good
it did seem an enormous place at the time, the height of the ceiling etc. The sound of voices echoing through. It had that special feeling to it, we seldom missed a Sunday.
Do you remember when a man came from Peterhead to teach on the evils of Strong Drink?? ''You will all go to the bottom of the bottomless pit'' sort of style !!
Yes, I remember the Outings and the streamers on the bus. AND the singing! How we loved all of that. On the bus for our Barrogill Hall picnic, we always sang She'll be coming round the Mountain, with the verse, She'll be eating Willdag's biscuits!!
I totally remember going to the Barrogill hall Sunday school and all the picnics. I remember vividly singing 'rolling over, rolling over, my cup's full of running over' etc. Doing all the actions I can still see Nancy standing there with a pale blue skirt and jacket doing the actions!!
Sunday school picnics, streamers (so excited getting to put a streamer out the bus window), singing 'ye canna shove yer granny of a bus', pies, sand, being attacked by black headed gulls, plastic sandals, your best summer frock and baggies! the days of innocence eh
! This could be for another thread, but do you remember the Mission Tent coming to the Brae each summer - we sang such songs there too .... I loved it.
A friend was telling me her mother went to the Barrogill Hall as a little girl in the very early days - 1910s or before. There was a Meeting of some VIPs sitting on the platform with a huge bowl of fruit on the table in front of them. This little girl left her mother and strolled onto the platform and asked for an orange - a big treat at the time! Yes - she was given one.
Was definitely the Bridge Street church that it belonged to. We had to go to the Bridge Street church and it was the same people involved in both. Remember Mr Roy coming up to the house for his tea and cake!! We used to be well warned that when he came in we had to sit and not move or say a word. We knew fine well what would happen if we didn't
Can remember Sinclair Lyall and the other ladies who were Sunday school teachers - memory coming back now and I do think it was the Bridge Street church as when Andrew Roy first came to Wick he used to come there and help with the youth groups before he got the ball rolling for the one below the Bridge St church.
Remember all the sales of work, tables set for sitting down to tea and cakes too.
Playing badminton in the halls
Dances used to be held there too - before the Academy School changed into the Assembly Rooms and dances changed to being held there with all the big groups of the day coming up
Went to the hall on a Sunday afternoon to learn the good way, I remember waiting for the lady Nancy to put the money in the meter so we could get lights and heat for when we went in, got good memories of singing away and getting told stories about the loaves and the fish, the water and the wine.
That was in the mid to late seventies. It was Sunday school on the Sunday morning, Barrogill hall in the afternoon for me. my whole day Sunday was religion!
Think it finished not long after that.
I remember going to a Co-op treat in the hall in the mid 1940s. We had a go as you please concert (do your own thing) community singing then juice and baggies, ah sweet memory of life!
I don’t remember the actual age when you could go to the B.H. but every child in Pulteney was expected to join sooner or later. ''Is that bairn going till e Barrogill Hall yet?'' would be asked of the mother.
I remember introducing a little boy of about three, and after attending for a few weeks we arrived a bit late one particular Sunday. Sinclair Lyall I think was in full flow, and as wee Donald and I walked down the length of the hall to the front row, the eager boyagie could wait no longer and shouted oot ''For Christ's sake, Amen '' he was a quick learner and had the hang of it already! I turned bright pink as everyone giggled, but no comment was made from the Platform! Donald's Rite of Passage is forever marked on my memory.
In the late 1950s John Cormack ran record hop style dances for teenagers on Monday nights, they were very popular at the time.
Whilst speaking to an old Wick friend on the phone yesterday, of course I mentioned the Barrogill Hall and we had a good old blether with plenty giggles. She reminded me that it was never a concert at the B.H. but a..........
SOIREE !! or ........ A CAFE CHANSON !! she's right of course.
I can just remember the bairnies saying " Are ye comin' till e cafe chaansaan e nicht?"
Mind you they were great evenings with wonderful talent.
My friend also asked if there was a bell, she recalls a bell ringing for Sunday school in the early days - I don’t remember such a bell - do you?
Yes, I can remember the bell ringing - running up Barrogill Street to get in before bells stopped and the doors closed.
I don't think I made many trips over to 'Poltney' from the Wick side when I was young but I do remember going to a few parties, or socials as we called them, in the Barrogill Hall. I think they might have been put on by the Scouts. That was likely the late 50's or early 60's.
When I was talking on the phone with my cousin in the States yesterday, he was telling me that the Apex Jazz Club was going in the 60's and he played with them there.
The Barrogill Hall certainly made a big impression on all who posted their memories on the “org.” There are of course many other memories, some remember playing badminton in the hall and suddenly in the middle of the game the lights would suddenly go out and someone would have to run to the electric meter and put in another shilling.
Of all the memories, the greatest testament of all to the success of the hall was given by a Wicker, (or should we say a Poltney loon) when he was called up to the Army and was asked "What's your religion?" he answered "Barrogill Hallie."