16/1/20
LEWIS DISTRICT COMMITTEE - INFECTIOUS DISEASE - TOLSTA
There was submitted a letter from the Scottish Board of Health, dated 19th November, 1919, requesting to be furnished with a further report with regard to the outbreak of diphtheria at North Tolsta. With regard to the proposal to erect a small hospital near the Nurse's Cottage at Tolsta, the Board state, that they will be glad to learn the result of the Local Authorities inquiries in this connection and they draw attention to the fact that an arrangement of this nature will involve the employment of another Nurse.
A report by the Sanitary Inspector on the subject, with his estimate of the cost of a small hospital with the necessary furnishings, would cost from £350 to £400. The Clerk read the reply, which he had forwarded to the Board and the Committee approved of same.
The Committee decided to make no recommendation on the subject of the proposed hospital, until a report is received from the Medical Officer for the Lewis Hospital.

FISHING NOTES
Two of the local small boats are out tonight (Monday) with their nets. There are about 150 Drifters tonight on the Tolsta Sands and the view they present is magnificent, the whole bay being a crescent of brilliant lights.

TIMELY HELP
Mr. Allan Murray, who some time ago had his house destroyed by fire, has received a special Grant of £20, from the Association of Highland Societies, Edinburgh. He has also received very substantial subscriptions from the villages of Back and Tong.

WEDDINGS GALORE
Several Tolsta couples have recently married. John MacKay, 2 North Tolsta and Annie Nicolson, Hill Street; Torquil MacDonald, North Tolsta and Margaret Graham, 9 North Tolsta; Donald MacDonald, Tong and Annie MacMillan, Glen Tolsta; Donald MacIver, Borve and Bessie Morrison, 15 North Tolsta; Donald MacKenzie, Benside and Isabella Nicolson, Hill Street.

DIPHTHERIA
The disease still continues to break out here and there through the village. The last case is one of the local Bursars in the Nicolson Institute, who was home for Christmas holidays. The parents of many of the children in the Infant classes are withholding their children from school, on account of diphtheria scare. The Education Authority has distempered and painted the main school buildings and outhouses. They have also in contemplation the overhauling of the Infant School buildings. We understand the village people have written to the Central Authorities to urge upon them to get at the operative source of the trouble.

23/1/20
WEDDING BELLS
At 28 North Tolsta, on 15th January, Murdo MacDonald, 16 North Tolsta, was married to Murdina, youngest daughter of Widow Donald MacIver. Rev. R. MacKenzie, Back, officiated.

TOLSTA - NESS ROAD
Much progress is being made on the construction of this road in spite of the unfavourable weather experienced during this Winter. Much blasting had to be done through the rugged rocks between the Garry and Amhuinn na Cloich. The road at some places here is so near the sea cliffs, that most of the rocks blasted fall into the sea. In the course of a few days a large number of the work-people will have crossed Amhuinne-na-Cloich.

SOIREE
The children attending the West Coast Mission Sunday Class, conducted by Nurse Stewart, had their annual soiree on Friday, 9th January. The following ladies helped Nurse Stewart during the evening:- Miss Crichton, Stornoway and Misses Christina Macleod, H. MacLeod, J. Thomson and A. M. MacLean. After tea was served with a plentiful supply of cake and buns, the children sang several Hymns and several of the little ones recited portions of Scripture. Mrs. Cameron addressed the children in Gaelic and solos were sung by some of the ladies present. All are indebted to Mr. John Duff, the Organising Secretary, for his kindly interest in the welfare of the district. This year he again sent an ample supply of cakes.

6/2/20
LOCAL NOTES
Dr. Innes, a Specialist from the Board of Health, is at present making investigations locally to get at the operative source of the trouble of diphtheria, which has been recurring with such frequency during the last five years. Most of the children temporarily withheld from School have returned during the past two weeks.

LOCAL NOTES
This has so far been in reality a Winter of storms and rain, snow and wind. The storm on Sunday week was one of the severest experienced here for some time. There was considerable minor damage done to property. At Garry, the roof was torn off the house built by the Contractor for the men working at the road. The house is to be repaired at once.
On Friday last, a Back boat after hauling the lines in the Broad Bay, could not battle against the storm; so she had to run for Tolsta, but, could not manage to land at the pier there owing to the heavy seas. There was then nothing for it, but allow her run round Tolsta Head, where she was almost swamped several times. The boat looked like a shell on the crest of the waves over the Tolsta Sands as she ran bare masted to the mouth of River Garry, where with some difficulty she managed to land safely. Local people who had seen the boat in Broad Bay, ran across to Garry, where they were of much assistance to the crew at the time of landing.

19/2/20
TUESDAY'S GALE
Like many other parts of Lewis, this village suffered severely from the storm of Tuesday, of last week. More than half of the houses are built 300 feet above the level of the sea and where these houses had a southern frontage, the force of the wind was so terrific,that several families had to leave their homes and others were practically imprisoned in their houses, for if the front door was once opened, the roof was sure to lift off. The School and several other buildings suffered severely from the effect of the storm.

DIPHTHERIA
There have been no fresh cases for the past ten days. In the local schools jotters have been substituted for slates and the pupils are having a gargling parade daily. There is some hope that the district may be cleared of this troublesome disease during the course of the year.
Murdina, the eldest child of Mr. Torquil Campbell, 34 North Tolsta, died in the Stornoway Infectious Diseases Hospital, on Sunday, 15th February. The deceased was 7 years of age. She had an attack of diphtheria of a very virulent type and there had not been much hope of her recovery from the beginning. Mr. Campbell's other children are at present in hospital and we understand they are progressing favourably.

12/3/20
VILLAGE NOTES
Last week Col. Lindsay, accompanied by Mr. Colin J. Maciver, visited the district. They have consented to allow the allotment holders to have the plots on the Farm as in former years. Several of the local people are applying to Lord Leverhulme for houses. There is so much congestion in this district that new houses are much required and we hope the people will soon have them.

19/3/20
GRAMOPHONE ENTERTAINMENT
On 4th March, Mr. Dunlop, Messrs. MacAlpine's Manager, gave a gramophone entertainment to the school children of the village. The main hall of the school was crowded, over 200 being present, including several adults. All present enjoyed themselves very much. Mr. MacDonald, Schoolmaster, proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Dunlop, who replied that it gave him great pleasure to be with them and that we would come again if they tried to attend the school regularly.

23/4/20
AN OLD COIN
While a daughter of Mr. Angus MacKenzie, 48 North Tolsta, was delving on one of the small plots on the North Tolsta Farm, she came across a penny bearing the date 1806. The date and lettering on the coin are quite distinct. The diameter is a little less than that of a modern penny, but owing to the thickness, it is about the same weight. The coin must have been lying in the sandy soil of the machair for at least 80 years.

23/4/20
CINEMATOGRAPH ENTERTAINMENT
Mr. Fletcher and Mr. C. J. MacIver, visited the school, on Wednesday of last week and gave a cinematograph entertainment. There were about 250 present, including a good sprinkling of adults. The films shown were lightly educative and young and old enjoyed the entertainment immensely. The pictures represented walrus-hunting and hunting for ivory, the common crab, the hermit crab, the octopus, etc., in their native haunts; forest scenes in Australia and the Park of the Sacred Hind. The above Pictures were interspersed with comedies. Mr. MacDonald, Teacher, called upon those present to accord a hearty vote of thanks to his Lordship, who not only provides work for their fathers and brothers, but also provides entertainment. Mr. Fletcher replied and thanked the audience for the hearty reception given to them as the representatives of Lord Leverhulme, to whom all the thanks should be accorded for that entertainment. He believed his Lordship would again send them round with a fresh supply of films, for he takes much interest in the educative enjoyment of the children of Lewis.

7/5/20
THE NEW ROAD
The men employed on the new road to Ness, have received an increase to their wages. Operations have now started on the new bridge across the River Garry. The height of this bridge will be about 50 feet and the span will be about 100 feet. From where it is constructed, one commands an excellent view, not only of the Bay of Garry, but also of Glen More, up to within a short distance of Muirneag. When John Bickerdyke wrote his "Banished Beauty" little did he think that "Port Gheiridhe", as he called this particular locality, would have such a magnificent bridge spanning Gil a Fors, where one of his characters shot one of the farmer's cows instead of a red deer.

21/5/20
LEWIS DEVELOPMENT SCHEMES - PUBLIC MEETING AT STORNOWAY
UNANIMOUS SUPPORT FOR LORD LEVERHULME'S POLICY

One of the largest Meetings held in Stornoway for many years, was that convened in the Drill Hall last Friday night, 14th May, for the purpose of considering the steps that should be taken to avert the calamitous results that will ensue if Lord Leverhulme's Schemes for the industrial development of the island are abandoned.

The Chairman said they were all aware of the object of the Meeting, so that it was not necessary for him to read the bill. At the outset, he was asked to read the resolutions that had come in from Meetings held in some of the country districts. The followed were passed at North Tolsta on Tuesday last: "That this mass Meeting of the men of North Tolsta heartily approves of the Schemes of Lord Leverhulme for the development of Lewis and strongly disapproves of the attitude of the raiders at Gress and Coll Farms. That we view with alarm any action taken by the Board of Agriculture and Scottish Office that would tend in the least to thwart his Lordship's Schemes. Further that we consider it would be an incalculable loss to the Community, if his Lordship is compelled by the action of those raiders, or by that of the Board of Agriculture to stop or even to suspend his beneficient Schemes......"

Councillor John MacLennan, North Tolsta, in seconding the resolution, said "I am sorry I cannot speak in English (having been pursuaded to speak in Gaelic.) I have not very much to say at anyrate. I cannot speak for anything or anybody but myself. I myself am a Crofter and a Fisherman; I have been a navvy and a Labourer - I have tried everything. I have the croft my father had and I have tried to work it successfully. I was as good at my own work as anyone in the district. There were many stronger than I am, but not one who worked harder. I went to Rosyth and worked there for seven years. While I was away, my family of six worked on the croft. They had all to stay at home to work it. At Rosyth there were 1600 men going out at the same gate with me and I was as well paid as any of them, I am sure I was as wise as any of them in the spending of my money; I had to do everything with it. I was the only one who owned a croft and there was not one in the 1600 as poor as myself. They were in famillies drawing their good pay every week. I had to give one-half of my pay to my landlady and send the rest home to my family. The other workers and their famillies were dressed like Duke's children, when they went to the street, while I was like a poor black boy among them. (Laughter and applause) I think it was God himself that sent Lord Leverhulme here. Everyone knows how the island was and I don't know how the island would have been this year had he not been here. (Applause) For my own part, I am past all work at any rate. Although Lord Leverhulme would be strewing his money about the streets it would be as much as I could do to pick it up. (Laughter) I am over 60 years of age. I would not ask anyone to do but what I would do myself. I would never ask anybody to have to do what I had to do. Formerly the people had to go away from the island - to earn a livelihood for themselves and their families. Nobody had to leave the island for that since Lord Leverhulme came. (Applause) They are only coming back from other parts to get a living here. (Applause) I am of the opinion that we as an island should rise as one man against every man who is trying to put Lord Leverhulme away and we should leave the island to Lord Leverhulme. (Applause)

28/5/20
STOPPAGE OF ROADWORK
As has been feared, the men working on the construction of the Tolsta to Ness road, were paid off on Wednesday, 12th May. As the scaffolding of Garry Bridge had been erected prior to the receiving of the stoppage announcement and as it would be a danger to leave this structure in it's present condition, the bridge is to be completed, but this will provide work for only about a score of people. The news of the cessation of the work was received here with consternation, even although such news had not been altogether unexpected. Men with large families will soon have to seek work outwith the island, for so far as indications go, there is not much likelihood of a prosperous herring fishing. The local line fishing is not promising either and even supposing fish were plentiful, there is no market for it, here or in Stornoway, if Lord Leverhulme's Schemes are stopped. On Tuesday, 11th May, there was a mass Meeting of the men of the district, held in the local school. Councillor John MacLennan presided and briefly stated to the Meeting the arrangements made at the Meeting of public bodies held at Stornoway the previous Friday. Several resolutions were unanimously adopted, heartily approving of the attitude of the raiders and viewing with alarm any action taken by the Government, that would tend to thwart these Schemes. Councillor John MacLennan and Mr. Donald MacDonald, 75 North Tolsta, were appointed delegates to the General Meeting at Stornoway, to be held the following Friday. Several other local men went to the Meeting at Stornoway.

MANIFESTO APPROVED
A deputation from the Lewis workmen visited the district last Friday. They consisted of Mr. Angus Smith, Tong; Mr. John Murray, Sheshader; Mr. John MacDonald, Ness and Mr. John Macmillan, Lochs. A Meeting of the local workmen was held in the School to meet this deputation. There was a large number present. Mr. Macmillan presided and read the Lewis Workers' Manifesto. Mr. Angus MacKenzie, No. 48, moved and Mr. Angus MacLennan, No. 35, seconded, that the resolutions be adopted and this was carried by acclamation. There was no dissenting voice. Mr. John Morrison, No. 46;
Mr. Donald MacIver, No. 33; Mr. Donald MacLennan, No. 35; Mr. John Murray, No. 71; Mr. William Gunn, No. 70; Mr. Donald MacDonald, No. 38; Councillor John MacLennan and others also spoke. Messrs. John Morrison, No. 46 and Donald MacLennan, No. 35; two landless men and ex-Service men, were appointed as local representatives from other districts in the island, the Gress and Coll raiders in order to try and dissuade them from their detrimental policy.

4/6/20
MENTIONED IN DESPATCHES
We are glad to hear that Mr. John MacInnes, Hill Street, North Tolsta, has received a certificate of "mention in despatches." He distinguished himself in saving the life of a comrade who had fallen overboard, when the ship was laying mines. His name appeared in the London Gazette, on 6th April, 1918. Mr. MacInnes was one of the survivors of H.M.V. Iolaire.

11/6/20
A PROMISING BOY
Master George Morrison, son of Mr. John Morrison, 46 North Tolsta, has been successful in winning in the recent League of Youth Essay competition, one of the prizes given by "The Teacher's World." This is very credible to a Gaelic-speaking boy, only 13 years of age, especially in view of the fact that there were so many other competitors. We beg to congratulate him on his success.

2/7/20
EDUCATIONAL
Dr. Robertson, H.M.C.I.S., accompanied by Dr. George MacDonald, of the Scottish Education Department, visited the local school last Monday.

FOR THE STATES
The local school was closed for annual holidays on Friday, 16th July, to reopen on Wednesday, 25th August. The book prizes given by Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher, Stornoway and other friends, for the best descriptions of the cinematograph entertainment given in school last April, were handed out by Mrs. Murray, Glasgow, a former assistant in the school. Miss Stewart, Lismore and Miss MacKenzie, New Cumnock, were present also. Mrs. Murray is to give a book prize to the pupil who will write the best description of the holidays.

6/8/20
A FISHING BOAT ON FIRE
There was much excitement as well as anxiety in this district early on Friday, when it was discovered that one of the boats fishing off the Ard of Tolsta was on fire. There were no boats launched from here as it was known that many of the fishing fleet were in close proximity to the burning vessel. Those who had relatives fishing out of Stornoway, wired to the Fish Market at Stornoway, for news of the two Tolsta crews. It seems that the vessel belonged to Hopeman and that the crew have been landed safely in Stornoway.

13/8/20
BATHING FATALITY
Malcolm Murray, 12 years of age, son of Mr. John Murray, 71 North Tolsta, was drowned, while bathing in Loch Dhirdin, on 4th August. Malcolm left home with the cattle early in the morning with the intention of leaving them out on the moor and returning home as soon as possible. But when he reached the above Loch, he met two or three other boys. Malcolm and one of these boys decided to have a swim before returning home. His comrade noticed that he was going too far from the shore and advised him not to venture too far out. He could swim only very little and on one occasion he ventured out too far, with the result that he went beyond his depth. He was seen to sink and he never came to the surface again. The young children who witnessed the accident were unable to do anything. One or two of them ran home to report. A large crowd of people gathered to the Loch and they managed to secure the body with the help of a fishing line. Malcolm was a very brave and courageous boy and was very much liked by everyone in the district.

WITHOUT A POST-OFFICE
North Tolsta is now without a Post-Office. The man appointed to suceed Mr. MacLeod, failed to have a house secured for carrying on the work of the Post-Office and at present the mail-gig arrives om the usual mail days and the letters are delivered by the maildriver to callers. The old age pensioners and others had no money paid to them for three weeks and the nearest telegraph office is Back, which is seven miles distant.

17/9/20
VILLAGE NOTES
The village is still withiut a Post-Office. Letters are handed out to callers from the mail-gig; old-age pensioners and others, have to go to Coll for their money, which entails a journey of 14 miles. On account of this, the School Savings Association is at a standstill. In a case of serious illness, especially when the nurse is away on holiday, it is hard when one has to travel seven miles to the nearest telegraph office to send for medical assistance.

8/10/20
EVENING CLASSES
Arrangements aree being carried out to start continuation Classes in the local school. The principal subjects are to be English, Arithmetic and Mensuration. There will also be a class in Gaelic if a sufficient number of pupils desire instruction in that subject.

15/10/20
THE GARRY BRIDGE
The Bridge is now completed and a great credit is due both to the designers and to the builders of this beautiful structure, which has a height of 50 feet and a span of 100 feet. It is built of reinforced concrte and it has seven arches the main one with three smaller ones on each side of it. The road over the bridge is 15 feet wide, with a pavement three feet wide on each side. Indeed this erection enhances the beauty of the locality, which was already one of the most beautiful spots in the Highlands.

PRESENTATION
On Tuesday of last week, when the men engaged on the construction of the Garry Bridge finished their day's work, they presented Mr. Alex Dunlop, the Manager, with a silver-mounted ebony walking stick and a burnt amber pipe, on the occasion of his leaving the district.

12/11/20
NEW POST-OFFICE
A new Post-Office was opened at 82 North Tolsta, on Thursday, 21st October. Mr. Alexander MacRae, is the new sub Post-Master. The telephone has not yet been installed, but we hope this will be attended to without delay. It is very convenient, especially in a case of illness, to have to travel fourteen miles to procure medical assistance. We know of one local instance recently, ehere a man had to walk to and from Stornoway, no less than 10 times - equivalent to 280 miles - and all of this could have been obviated if the telephone had been installed locally.

26/11/20
THE STORM
The weather during the past week was about the severest ever experienced in this district. There were minor cases of damage throughout the village. The bungalow in course of construction for the assistant teachers got the brunt of the storm, but it held its ground. Many slates were disloged from the school and the lead ridge was torn off in several places. Boats were tossed about by the wind and damaged.

3/12/20
PATHESCOPE ENTERTAINMENT
Another cinematograph entertainment was given by Mr. and Mrs. S. B. Fletcher, to the young people of the village on Tuesday, 23 November. There were two exhibitions, the first to the Infants and Juniors and the second to the Seniors and Evening-class pupils. The rounds of applause as the films flashed on the screen, testified to the children's keen appreciation of the entertainment. The pictures shown, represented mussel fishing, herring fishing, fishing for cuttle-fish, trout piscieulture, a marriage procession in Brittany, a great carnival and many other educative sketches. There were also some comic pieces.

10/12/20
A SERIOUS ACCIDENT
While one of the tradesmen employed on the erection of the Teacher's Bungalow at Tolsta was cycling to Stornoway on Saturday, 27th November, he fell over the Tolsta- Glen Bridge and was very seriously injured. It seems that as he was descending the Glen Brae his brake refused to work and he struck against the end of the parapet. He fell a distance of 30 feet among the boulders on the margin of the river. He was discovered by a young boy, who gave the alarm. The mail gig was coming from Tolsta and the injured man was brought to his home at Coulegrain. Dr. Stewart, who happened to be on his way to Tolsta, saw the man and rendered all the assistance possible.

PORTNAMBOTHAG PIER
Some time ago, a letter was received by the Lewis District Committee from the County Clerk, enclosing a copy of a recent report by the Inspector of Piers, on the pier at Portnambothag. From the report, it appeared that as the pier is in such an inaccessible and exposed situation, that the Inspector doubted whether it is worth attempting to maintain it and stated that it would require to be done during very good weather. The District Committee wrote, asking for further observations on the report. At a Meeting last week, the Chairman stated, that the Sub-Committee appointed for the purpose, visited the pier and conversed with a number of persons interested, of whom Mr. Cameron was spokesman. The Chairman said he read the County Clerk's letter to the people and explained to them the position of matters, pointing out that it was for them to say whether the pier would be of service to them or not. As it was at present, it was of no use, the acccess to the pier having been washed away. When the pier was constructed the intention was, that it should be extended for some little distance towards the south, so as to form a "T." If the original Scheme had been carried out, the people of the district were of the opinion that the pier would be of a very great service and the Sub-Committee were satisfied that this would be the case. The Meeting agreed to intimate to the County Council, the position of matters with regard to the pier.

17/12/20
LECTURES
Mr. Angus MacLeod, B.SC., delivered two lectures on crops and livestock in the local school on Wednesday and Thursday of last week. The lectures were illustrated by limelight views. These lectures were very well attended, both by old and young. After each lecture, there was a general discussion about the points Mr. MacLeod dealt with.
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13/1/21
ILLEGAL TRAWLING
During the past month a great deal of trawling with-in the three mile limit has been going on on the Tolsta Sands and in Broad Bay. These trawlers make a point of arriving on the scene on Saturday, when they know the herring fishing fleet has cleared out and they trawl there continuously till Monday morning. People here are wondering what the Fishery Cruiser is doing every weekend, since she could account for many trawlers in close proximity to the Aird of Tolsta.

20/1/21
FISHING NOTES
The local boats were out with the nets at the beginning of this week and they had shots ranging from two to six crans. At the time of writing - Friday night - there is a large fleet of drifters on the Tolsta Sands. We understand one or two trawlers were caught by the Fishery Cruiser, near
Tolsta Head, at the beginning of the week.

SOIREE
On Tuesday, 4th January, the children attending Nurse Stewart's Sunday Class were entertained to their annual treat. The proceedings were opened by prayer and the singing of the 2nd Paraphrase. Thereafter the children, 72 in all, were served with tea, buns and cake and later on in the evening with chocolates. A few Hymns were sung by the children and solos by the Misses MacLean and MacLeod, Teachers. There were also present, Mrs. Cameron, Mrs. Donald MacLeod, Mrs. MacDonald, Schoolhouse and Miss Thomson, Teacher, all of whom, in various ways, helped to make the evening a success. The Directors of the West Coast Mission, through their genial Secretary, Mr. John Duff, kindly provided cake and chocolates. Miss Thomson called upon the children to give a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Duff, to which they heartily responded.

3/2/21
THE STORMS
On Tuesday, 17 January, during a violent gust of wind, about 20 feet of the roof of the school bungalow was carried away. Probably more of it would have gone, but one of the tradesmen and a labourer working about the school buildings managed to make things more secure. The ridge had not been put on at the time. At the time of writing, the whole building is finished, except the plumber and painter work.

10/2/21
THE TELEGRAPH
Workmen from the Post Office have started this week to connect the main telegraph line with the new office opened here last October. We expect next week to be in communication with the outside world.

DIPHTHERIA
A few cases of diphtheria have been breaking out in isolated cases in the village during the past four months. It was hoped last summer that the district was clear of this troublesome epidemic. At one time it was suspected that the school drainage had something to do with the spreading of this disease, but Dr. Innes, the Board of Health Commissioner, who made investigations last Spring, proved that the epidemic was caused by the presence of carriers in the district. Dr. Porter, M.O.H., is making investigations to get at the operative source of this trouble and it is hoped she will be able to eradicate this disease which has brought such havoc amongst us during the past six years.

17/2/21
CLOSURE OF SCHOOL
This school was closed on Wednesday, 9th February, by order of the Local Authority, for a period of two weeks, owing to the spread of diphtheria.

DIPHTHERIA
There were several fresh outbreaks of this epidemic during the weekend. One of the cases is a widow with six of a family. The M.O.H., who had been investigating, has already discovered a carrier, but as the disease has been going on for such a long time, it has probably left several carriers in its trail.

FISHING NOTES
Several of the local boats have been recently going out with the small lines. They are getting fair shots. The trawlers are beginning to get very bold, for they now carry on their trawling in broad daylight, within a few hundred yards of the shore. Where is the Fishery Cruiser?

24/3/21
TORNADO IN LEWIS - WIDESPREAD DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY
A hurricane of alarming violence spread over this district on the forenoon of Wednesday, 16th March. A large number of outhouses were demolished and about a dozen of the thatched dwellings were unroofed.
Two of the houses recently built and roofed with felt were also destroyed and the occupants lost all their belongings. When the roofs yielded, the partitions were carried away. The dressers with the dishes were tossed about and the bed clothes and even the clothes in boxes were carried off.
The two who suffered most in this respect were, Widow Mary Campbell, 30 North Tolsta and Mr. Donald MacMillan, (John), Glen Tolsta. Widow Jessie Campbell, 47 North Tolsta, had a very trying experience. Her eldest son was lying in bed seriously ill and when the house was unroofed, the very bed clothes were carried away. She, with some help, managed to get her son removed to the barn, until he could be brought to the nearest house.
The Free Presbyterian Church was razed to the ground and the corrugated sheets as they were wrenched from the debris caused much damage by striking against other houses and corn stacks.
A chimney stalk in the house of Mr. John Murray, 30 North Tolsta, was brought down by a large piece of the roofing of the church, but no one was hurt although the stones crashed through the thatched roof. It is said that pieces of the roofing of the church were flying through the air two hundred feet high, indeed, some of them were carried half a mile.
The walls of the Free Church cracked in several places. The school buildings were badly damaged - windows broken, parts of roofs stripped of slates and lead, etc.
The roof of the old Post Office was also carried away. Four of the six windows in the west side of the teachers' hostel were broken. The ceiling yielded slightly, but there was no damage to the roof, which must have been very well fixed before it could stand such strain. It is estimated that the damage done to the property and corn in the district, amounts to £5,000.
A hurricane of such velocity, it seems, had never been experienced in this district before and 16th March is a day ever to be remembered. The peats were flying through the air as if they were tufts of moss and the very stones, some of which weighed several pounds, were tossed about. A stone weighing three ounces was found after the storm on one of the window sills of the school.
A large number of carts were smashed and many corn stacks were carried into the sea. There are not a dozen families at Tolsta but will have to spend money to replace the damage caused by the storm. There were several people slightly hurt, but there were no cases of serious injury. Had the storm occurred during the night, there would have been far more serious loss. As it was, many people will never forget their experience that day. People living in the vicinity of the F. P. Church must have had a very anxious time, when with such force pieces of the wreckage were striking against their houses. It is now past and we hope we never shall have a similar experience again.

31/3/21
AFTER THE STORM
During the past week local people have been busy repairing their houses. There are however, many householders, several of whom are widows, whose houses have been so very badly damaged, that they have not the means to get them repaired. Last Sabbath, the Free Presbyterians, who'se Church was destroyed by the recent storm, worshipped in the local school. The walls of the Free Church have cracked in several places and the congregation has been advised to buttress them on both sides of the building.

7/4/21
TOLSTA PUBLIC SCHOOL
This school was reopened last Tuesday, after a six weeks closure. To all appearances the district is at present clear of diphtheria.

14/4/21
TOLSTA-NESS ROAD
We understand preparations are being made to resume work on the Tolsta - Ness road early next week. Already, about half a dozen men have started arranging the plant to be in readiness for a general resumption. Seemingly the work is to be carried on under the piecework system.

THE ECLIPSE
The local people seem to have been keenly interested in the solar eclipse of the 8th April. Groups of people, old and young, could be seen here and there with pieces of smoked glass watching it's progress. The day was ideal for observation purposes.

FREE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
The congregation of this Church are busy quarrying stones and getting them carted to the site. Arrangements are being made to start building operations without delay.

VILLAGE JOTTINGS
Spring work has now begun, but the soil is still somewhat damp. There has been very little fishing done during the past month. Those who in former years, had plots on the North Tolsta Farm will miss them this year. There is very little land available elsewhere in the vicinity. But people must bow to the inevitable.

9/6/21
SCHOOL COLLECTION
A Collection was made this week by the Staff and Pupils of the local School. The sum of £4 5s 1d was realised and this was considered very satisfactory, especially when all the people are at present out of employment. The proceeds were sent to Mr. Anderson, Secretary of the Lewis E.I.S. Branch, to be handed to the Treasurer of the Aignish Disaster Fund.

SMALL LINE FISHING
The local men, seeing there is no other employment, have been going out with the small lines during the past fortnight. Some days they are having very heavy hauls of haddock of excellent quality. Two new boats for the haddock fishing have recently been added to the local fleet.

LOCAL NOTES
The Spring work has now been completed and most of the people had their peats cut before the middle of May. Many families have sent their cattle to the Summer shieling and as most of the young women are likely not to obtain their usual Summer and Autumn employment this year, probably the time-honoured custom of the "Airidh Shamhraidh" will be much more in vogue than in recent years.

14/7/21
THEFT OF BICYCLE - Letter received by Stornoway Gazette, from correspondent signing himself "Silver Badge " writes - "Referring to the "Theft of Bicycle" in the "Stornoway News" of last weeks Gazette,concerning a young man said to be from the Tolsta district; what will the Tolsta folk abroad think of their native village, in fact everyone of them will take it for granted that this young man might be a brother or a near relative of their's, seeing his name was not made public. But although the said young man resides in the neighbourhood of Tolsta, he has no relatives in the village."

21/7/21
VILLAGE NOTES
The crops are looking very promising. The people are now busy getting their Winter's supply of peats, which are this year in very good condition. Fishing with small lines has been going on continuously during the past two months. If the people were living in the vicinity of a fish market, they could dispose of several hundred tons per week. As it is, they cannot get their fish sold, which has all to be sold at home. This abundant supply of fish has been a great blessing to the people, when money is so scarce to buy other commodities.

4/8/21
SCHOOL PRIZE DAY
The local School closed for holidays on 18th July. Mrs. Margaret Murray, Glasgow, a former member of the Staff, handed out the prizes for Attendance and Merit granted by the Education Authority. The Dux Prize was won by George Morrison, 46 North Tolsta. At the close a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mrs. Murray. The School reopens on 29th August. Miss Christina MacLeod, who had been appointed to the Nicolson Institute.

LOCAL NURSING COMMITTEE
There was a Meeting of this Committee in the local School on 28th July. Mrs. Cameron, Convenor, presided. Nurse Stewart, who has been appointed to a district in Renfrewshire, tendered her resignation to the Committee. The Members present spoke highly of Nurse Stewart's services in the district during the past eight years. The Secretary was instructed to record in the Minutes of that Meeting the Committee's regret at losing her services and their high appreciation of her work in the district. Nurse Stewart, is a patient, sympathetic and skilful nurse and she will be greatly missed. She leaves at the end of August.

11/8/21
APPOINTMENT OF TEACHER
Miss Annie MacLennan, Brue, has been appointed an Assistant Mistress, in the Tolsta School, in room of Miss MacLeod, who has been promoted to the Nicolson Institute.

F. P. CHURCH
As will be remembered, the Free Presbyterian's of North Tolsta had their Church razed to the ground by the tornado of last March. The Congregation at once began to quarry stones and to get them gathered to the site of the former building, with the result that the mason work of the new Church is now completed. So well is the mason work getting on, that the people hope to be in this new Church by the first Sabbath of October - the date of their half-yearly Communion. It is noteworthy, that all the labour so far has been voluntary. Most of the men have given from two to three weeks of free labour, besides what they have given of money.

25/8/21
A PRESENTATION
A deputation consisting of Mr. and Mrs. Cameron, Mr. Angus MacKay, Missionary, Mr. John Nicolson, Elder and Mr. D. MacDonald, Teacher, visited upon Nurse Stewart, on 13th August, to present her with a wallet of Treasury Notes subscribed by the people of the district as a small token of their regard and esteem for her and appreciation of her services, during the eight and a half years she worked among them.

13/10/21
THE SACRAMENTS
The Sacraments of the Lord's Supper was dispensed in the two local congregations, on Sabbath, 2nd October. In the Free Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Mr. MacIntyre, was assisted by the Rev. Mr. MacLeod, Glendale. There were many strangers present from Ness and other districts. The newly-built Church was opened on Thursday of the Communion and although it is not yet finished on the inside, it was more comfortable for the people to be there than to be in the local School. It is very creditable to the Congregation that they have managed to do so much in so short a time. In the Free Church, Rev. Mr. MacKenzie, Back, was assisted by Rev. Mr. MacLeod, Gravir and Rev. Mr. MacLeod, Ness, two promising young men.

LOCAL NOTES
Most of the people have now got the corn gathered into the barnyards. The potato crop in the district is a complete failure this year. The outlook is very gloomy indeed. Only a few of the men managed to obtain posts at the English fishing and the Fishermen who are out of employment have been notified that they are not eligible for Benefit, with the exception of a small minority. It is hoped the Government will do something for the Lewis people.

17/11/21
PUBLIC MEETING
Our North Tolsta Correspondent in forwarding the report of a Public Meeting with reference to unemployment (which appeared in a recent issue) has enclosed a letter which reads:-
"I fear many people here are very poor - poorer, perhaps than they would like to let the outside world know. As you know, Lewis people are somewhat still proud on that score. Although they may be quite ready to proclaim the state of affairs collectively, they are not so ready to admit their individual needs. The potato crop was almost a complete failure in this district. It was no more than 40 per cent of last year's yield and a great deal of that is not fit for human consumption. There is no work of any kind in the district and the outlook for the coming Winter is very gloomy indeed. I rather think many of the Crofters and squatters had to sell some of their sheep to help them to provide for their families. If things, however, did not get worse than they are now there would not be so much occasion for gloomy forebodings. But the probability is that during the Winter and Spring things will get much worse. I find a number of the children attending School have no boots and I know many of them will not be able to get new boots for the Winter unless some assistance is forthcoming in some form or another. I am afraid also, that the rural people of Lewis will not be granted by the Employment Committee any Benefit during the Winter months, on account of their normal occupation being fishing - an uninsured occupation. This is going to be a very severe blow to the rural ex-Service man - a bit tantalising when they see many of those who did not serve in the War at all, getting their Benefit regularly. Let us hope, however, something will turn up. Indeed, Lewis was never in such need of assistance.

3/11/21
UNEMPLOYMENT IN LEWIS - MEETING AT NORTH TOLSTA
A largely attended Meeting of the unemployed men of this district was held at the Tolsta School.

Mr. John Morrison, 46 North Tolsta, who presided, explained that the Meeting was called in order to see what steps should be taken to obtain work or Government assistance, in view of the necessitous circumstances of the people of the district. Owing to the scacity of labour, the failure of the Fishing industry and the complete failure of the potato crop, the outlook for the present Winter is very gloomy indeed and to aggravate matters recently, almost all rural claimants for Unemployment Benefit had been bluntly told that they were inelligible for Benefit. He had noticed that same week from the Press, that the Minister of Labour promised that when claims for Government assistance were to be considered, preference was to be given to ex-Servicemen. He thought it would be advisable to appoint at that Meeting a vigilant Committee to press the needs of the district on the attention of the Authorities and to co-operate, if the need should arise, in conjunction with the representatives of other districts, to see that the Lewis people got their fair share of any Government assistance forthcoming.

Mr. Donald Nicolson, 9 North Tolsta, said that when Labouring started early in 1919, on the North Tolsta - Ness road, the ex-Servicemen of the district were informed they could no longer be granted out-of-work Donation, as work was available in the district; but when the work there ceased and the people were in dire distress, they were told by the Local Employment Committee, they were no longer eligible for Benefit, as fishing is deemed to be their normal occupation. He wondered if the Minister of Labour was conversant with the circumstances of the case.

Mr. Donald Smith, 36 North Tolsta, pointed out, that rural men in Lewis volunteered to a man, to defend the country in the Great War. They did then stand up as patriots and as patriots, they were now entitled to be treated. There was not a set of people in Britain who suffered more in the Great War than the Fishermen of Scotland and he maintained, they were entitled to better treatment than they were receiving.

Mr. John Campbell,(Snr.), 54 North Tolsta, continued the discussion. He was of the opinion that if the Government assistance was not forthcoming, the people of Lewis would be in a worse plight than they had been in for generations. Their children would have to be clad and clad well before they could make use of their school instruction. At the time, although the weather was somewhat cold, he saw many children going to school without boots. What could the children do during the severity of the Winter months.

At this stage, Mr. MacDonald, Schoolmaster, gave a summary of the Premier's speech, as outlined in the Press that day, showing the Government's Schemes for dealing with unemployment throughout the country. He thought in view of the peculiar circumstances of the Lewis districts that they would be entitled to a good share of the proposed Grant for relief works.

Thereafter, Mr. Allan Murray, 4 North Tolsta, moved that the people of the district should apply to the authorities for some of these Funds, to extend the local pier at Port n'an bothag:

Mr. John MacLennan seconded and this was agreed to unanimously.

A Committee consisting of the following gentlemen was then elected:- Messrs. Donald MacDonald,(75); John Murray,(71); John Morrison,(46); William MacDonald,(48); Donald MacLennan,(35) and John Campbell,(34).

A vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the Meeting to a close.

Dr. Murray, M.P., replying to a wire sent to him after the Meeting said:- "Telegram received. Have been pressing these points for some time and will persist."
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19/1/22
NURSING
Nurse Jessie Kelly, who started here at the end of last August, has resigned on account of ill-health. Mrs. Cameron, the new nurse, entered on duty on New Year's Day. Mrs. Cameron is a Queen's Nurse and prior to her marriage, was for some time in charge of a district in Argyllshire.

WHOOPING COUGH
Whooping Cough has been raging in this district during the past six weeks. So far, with the exception of a few cases, the epidemic has been of a mild type. The last time Whooping Cough was in the district was eleven years ago. The School was opened last Monday, but only a few pupils were able to attend. The School has now been closed for a period of three weeks. There is also one case of measles in the district, one of the pupils attending the Nicolson Institute.

2/2/22
PUBLIC MEETING
A Meeting of the people of the district was held in the Tolsta School on Wednesday, 25th January, Councillor John MacLennan, presiding. A deputation was appointed to meet with Mr. Thomson, the County Councillor for the district and the Engineer from the Board of Agriculture, now resident in Stornoway. Next day a communication was received from Mr. Armstrong and another Meeting was held, when a representative Committee was appointed to confer with the Engineer, when he visits the district. A list of Applicants for work under this Scheme was compiled and forwarded to Mr. Armstrong. It is hoped the work will be started soon.

WEDDINGS
On Thursday, 29th December, 1921, at 9 North Tolsta, Mr. John MacKenzie, Kishorn, was married to Miss Mary Nicolson, 9 North Tolsta. Rev. Neil MacIntyre, Stornoway, officiated. Also at 20 North Tolsta, on Thursday, 19th January, Mr. Donald Murray, 37 North Tolsta, was married to Miss Maggie MacLeod, daughter of Mr. John MacLeod, 20 North Tolsta. Rev. Roderick MacKenzie, Back, officiated. Recently in Glasgow, Mr. Malcolm Campbell, 2 North Tolsta, was married to Miss Isabella MacIver, eldest daughter of Mr.Angus MacIver, 17 North Tolsta and Mr. H. Walker, Neilston, was married to Miss Catherine Morrison, daughter of Mr. John Morrison, 31 North Tolsta. We wish all these couples long life, happiness and prosperity.

23/2/22
WHOOPING COUGH
Whooping Cough is still raging in this district. Only very few families have escaped. Recently there have been some severe cases, but, so far, there has only been one death from this illness.

WEDDING BELLS
At 73 North Tolsta, on 2nd February, Mr. Roderick MacIver, 10 North Tolsta, was married to Catherine, eldest daughter of Mr. Donald MacKenzie (Junior), 73 North Tolsta. Rev. Neil MacIntyre, Stornoway, officiated. We wish the young couple much happiness, long life and prosperity.

RELIEF WORKS
People from this district have started resurfacing the local roads over a fortnight ago. There are over 100 men employed. We understand that the work of the section now completed, has been very satisfactorily carried out. We hope the people will be given enough work to keep them regularly employed at least till the Spring work begins.

FISHING NOTES
The local boats during the past week have been going out with both the herring nets and the hand-lines, but so far the results have been only fair. The trawlers during the past six weeks have been constantly fishing in the vicinity of Tolsta Head, with the result that those who go out with the small lines now get nothing at all. This year, the trawlers have been very daring on the coast here.

16/3/22
ROAD MAKING
The local unemployed have now started to resurface another section of the main road - about five furlongs. It is hoped that when this piece is completed they will be given some other sections to provide work for them throughout the Spring months. There never was a time when relief works were as necessary as they are now.

TOLSTA PUBLIC SCHOOL
The local School was reopened on Monday, 17 February, after a closure of seven weeks. The attendance is not up to the normal as several of the younger children have not yet got over the after-effects of whooping cough. Miss Annie M. MacLean, who has been Infant Mistress in the School for two and a half years, has left the district and is now teaching in Lochalsh Public School.

20/4/22
LOCAL NOTES
An epidemic of measles has broken out in the district. Ten families are affected. The School is still kept open, but all the children from the north end of the village are excluded. So far the epidemic has been of a mild type.

The local people took a much greater interest in the recent Education Authority Election than they did in 1919. The fact that the two local candidates stood, viz., Mr. Cameron, J.P., North Tolsta and Rev. Mr. MacKenzie, Back, made the Electors more interested in the matter. It is reported that 55 per cent of the voters elected.

The pupils and teachers of Tolsta School have contributed over £4 to the Back Disaster Fund. Were it not that the people are so poorly off, the contribution would have been far more substantial. This sum was forwarded to Mr. John MacRae, Stornoway.

20/7/22
VILLAGE NOTES
The weather, which was rather unfavourable during May and June, is now excellent. The crops were rather backward at first, but are now making very
good progress. The small line fishing which was very prosperous last year, has been this year very disappointing so far. The new landholders of the North Tolsta Farm have now started constructing a new road for their crofts, but that can provide employment only for a small portion of the unemployed people in the district.

14/9/22
TOLSTA PUBLIC SCHOOL
This School reopened on Monday, 4th September, after the Summer holidays. Miss Margaret Ross, Portree and Miss Cathie MacKenzie, Burncrook, Bayble, the new assistants, entered on duty that day. The Headmaster, who has been off duty during the Summer months on account of illness, has now resumed work. This school has suffered much from epidemics during the past six years; but now it appears that diphtheria, which has been so long a source of trouble, has at last been got under control. Dr. Porter by the help of her bacteriological outfit, has been able to trace the operative source of this trouble and for this we are very much indebted to her.

A TOLSTA BOY DIES IN HOSPITAL
Donald Murray, eldest son of Mr. Alexander Murray, 27 North Tolsta, died in the Lewis Hospital, on 2nd September. The deceased, who was 12 years of age, had been ill for only a few days. It seems that while he was herding cattle in the Ard of Tolsta, he was severely hurt and was removed to the Lewis Hospital. The pathetic circumstances under which he died has caused a great deal of stir and given rise to much comment in the district and the matter is being investigated by the Police authorities.

18/11/22
SIR WILLIAM COTTS IN RURAL LEWIS - NORTH TOLSTA
Sir William Cotts had a very enthusiastic reception on Saturday in the Back district, where he addressed several Meetings. The first was held at North Tolsta, with Mr. Angus MacLennan, Crofter, No. 36, in the Chair.

Dealing with local questions, Sir William referred to the unsuitability of the "Shiela" for the Stornoway mail route and promised if returned, to do his utmost to get a better boat. (Applause) Other local subjects touched on were roads, telephonic communication, fishing, trawling, the opening up of foreign markets upon which the herring fishing virtually depended and pensions. Speaking of Lord Leverhulme's Schemes, he expressed his great regret that they had stopped. For this he was blaming no-one, but he thought it was a great pity that these Schemes, which meant so much for the prosperity of the island, had had to be dropped.

Mr. John MacLennan, No.60, said that if Sir William Cotts went to Parliament, he would see to the grievances of the ex-Service men.

After questions were put and a speech by ex-Provost MacKenzie, Mr. John MacLennan moved and Mr. Donald MacIver, No. 32, seconded a vote of confidence in Sir William Cotts, as a fit and proper person to represent the constituency in Parliament, was enthusiasically carried.

30/11/22
LOCAL CANDIDATES
At the forthcoming Parish and County Council elections, Mr. John MacLennan, 60 North Tolsta and Mr. Donald Cameron, J.P., are candidates for the former. If the local electors turn out with such enthusiasm as they did at the recent Parliamentary Elections, both candidates should fare well.

VILLAGE NOTES
At the recent Parliamentary Election 72 per cent of the local electors recorded their votes. This is probably a record for this Constituency.
The harvest work is now finished. All the corn was secured under favourable conditions and the potato crop has been very satisfactory.
At the beginning of the month the local boats had several good shots of herrings, but recently the results have been rather disappointing.

14/12/22
ELECTIONS
A largely attended and an enthusiastic Meeting of he local electors was held in the Tolsta School on Monday, 4th December.Mr. D. MacDonald, presided. Mr. Donald Cameron, J.P., who was a candidate for both the Parish and the County and Mr. John MacLennan, 60 North Tolsta, who was a candidate for the Parish, addressed the Meeting. Several of those present, took part in the discussion that followed the candidates' speeches and urged upon all those who had votes to turn out the following day, to support the local candidates. The Meeting broke up with a hearty round of cheering for the candidates.

POULTRY LECTURE
Miss M. R. Munro, of the Northern College of Agriculture, gave the first of a series of Lectures on poultry, in the Tolsta School, on Monday, 4th
December. There was a very large attendance of old and young. Mr. D. MacDonald, Teacher, presided. The Lecture was illustrated by lantern slides. At the close of the Lecture, Mr. D. Cameron, in moving a vote of thanks to the Lecturer, advised the people to attend the other Lectures of the series and he made a special appeal to the women of the district to come out. Miss Munro is also giving two Lectures to the Senior pupils of the local School.
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4/1/23
POULTRY LECTURES
Miss M. R. Munro, of the Northern College of Agriculture, gave the last of her series of Lectures on Poultry in the Tolsta School, on 13th December. There was a large attendance, Mr. D. MacDonald, presiding. Miss Munro's Lectures were all well attended and a note-worthy feature of these Meetings was the large number of women folk who turned out. Miss Munro also gave two Lectures to the Senior pupils of the School and she visited several homes in the district, where she had homely talks with the people on poultry rearing, feeding and housing.

11/1/23
WEDDING BELLS
On Thursday, 28th December, at 32 North Tolsta, Mr. Murdo Campbell, 54 North Tolsta, was married to Miss Margaret MacIver, daughter of Norman MacIver, 32 North Tolsta. Rev. Roderick MacKenzie, Back, officiated. On the same date, at 9 North Tolsta, Mr. Duncan MacGregor, Kishorn, was married to Miss Annie Nicolson, 9 North Tolsta. Rev. Neil MacIntyre, Stornoway, officiated.

FISHING NOTES
The Tolsta Bay from Tolsta Head to Cellar Head presents a very pleasing view these dark nights. The whole distance, five miles in extent, forms a crescent of brilliant lights. Two of the local boats ventured out last week, although the weather was stormy. One of the boats lost her nets. On the following day, the nets were recovered by the drifter B.F. "Tyric". The local Fishermen desire to express, through the medium of the "Gazette", their gratitude to the Skipper and crew of that drifter for saving their nets and for coming to the Tolsta pier to deliver them.

22/2/23
OBITUARY
We regret to announce that Katie Ann, youngest child of Mr. Donald MacKay, 16 North Tolsta, died on Saturday, 1st February. The deceased, who was 18 months old, contracted whooping cough some weeks ago and latterly pneumonia set in. The heartfelt sympathy of the Community is extended to the bereaved
parents, who had lost two other children in the past seven years.

8/3/23
UNEMPLOYED MEETING AT NORTH TOLSTA
A large Meeting of the unemployed people of North Tolsta, was held in the local School, on Monday, 26th February. The Meeting was called by Mr. John MacLennan, Parish Councillor, who, at the outset, explained the reason for his having done so. They were all aware he said, of the conditions prevailing in the district. He took advantage of bringing the matter up at the last Meeting of the Parish Council. He had made enquiries with regard to the prospect of any relief work for the district and from the statement made by Mr. Hector Smith, the Parish Council's representative on the District Committee, he found no arrangement had been made for providing work for the local people in the vicinity of Tolsta.

A number of the men having spoken on the necessity of providing immediate work for the people, it was resolved that a deputation be sent to Stornoway to interview Mr. Armstrong, the Board of Agriculture's representative in Lewis.

The following deputation was appointed:-
Messrs. John Campbell, 54 North Tolsta; William Finlayson,(1); Hector MacKay,(42) and Alexander Murray,(27).

On the return of this deputation from Stornoway, another Meeting was held on Thursday last, to receive their report. Mr. Angus MacLennan, was moved to the Chair. The deputation's report stated, that it was a matter of much regret that they had not seen Mr. Armstrong, who happened to be away from the island. They had, however, interviewed Mr. Miller, District Clerk, who received them sympathetically, but who informed them, as far as he knew, no work had been arranged for the people of Tolsta.

The Chairman asked Mr. Donald Cameron, Parish Councillor, who was present, if he had anything to say.

Mr. Cameron, at the outset, said they were all very much indebted to the deputation for what they had done on their behalf and he called upon the Meeting to accord them a hearty vote of thanks. (Applause) Continuing, Mr. Cameron said, that he regretted the position of matters and the delay in providing relief works, that an immediate application as perfectly justifiable in their needy circumstances, should be made to the Inspector of the Poor, who cannot divest himself of the responsibility inposed upon him by statutory obligations. He also hoped, that no one in need would refrain from applying to the Parish Council. He knew they would prefer work to charity, but in view of their circumstances and on account of the service they had rendered to their country during the War, they must be provided with either work or other relief.

A vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the Meeting to a close.

22/3/23
VILLAGE NOTES
The weather for some time back has been unusually favourable. At the time of writing, many of the village children are running about bare-footed and the people who obtained holdings on the new settlement in North Tolsta, are busy building houses and ploughing the land. Although much poverty is prevalent in the district, the local people were not given any of the Grant provided by the Board of Agriculture for the relief of distress in the Island. This has caused much dissatisfaction.

10/5/23
HOUSE ON FIRE
On 20th April, the house of Mr. Donald Graham, 39 North Tolsta, was almost completely destroyed by fire. While the family were engaged down on the croft, a young boy, who had been left at home, went upstairs with a naked light, to search for something and it seems some corn on the loft got ignited. Several people working on their crofts noticed smoke belching from the two chimneys and from the skylights. Within a few minutes, scores of men were on the spot. The damage to the building and furniture was extensive. Most of the things upstairs were destroyed. It is to be hoped that friends will give some assistance to Mr. Graham to repair his house and to get some of the articles destroyed by fire replaced. Mr. Graham is very much indebted to the large number of men who worked so strenuously to extinguish the flames.

30/8/23
VILLAGE NOTES
Some of the local men have now returned from the East Coast Fishing and the majority of them came home practically peniless. It appears that the potato crop is to be a complete failure this year in this district. Present indications predict this year's yield to be the poorest for the last twenty years. Thus the outlook for the coming Winter is extremely gloomy. It is ardently hoped, that the authorities will be able to set some relief works on foot to help the people.

11/10/23
A NARROW ESCAPE
Last Saturday, a child belonging to Mr. Donald Graham, 39 North Tolsta, had a narrow escape from being killed by a horse. It appears that the child, a boy of three years of age, was playing in front of his house and that a horse which happened to be grazing there at the time, resented the child's presence and tried to kick him. The boy was severely cut on the side of his head. The little fellow was badly stunned, but after he had been attended by the nurse he was able to move about. Indeed it is a marvel, how few of such accidents occur in the districts, where horses are allowed to roam about at will.

VILLAGE NOTES
The weather continues to be very severe for harvest work. Most of the Crofters have got the barley reaped and some of them are well on with the cutting of the oats, but owing to the soaking condition of the corn and the continued dampness of the weather, it will be some time yet before any of it can be gathered into the barn-yards. A large number of the fisher-girls left last week for the English fishing. A few of the men have also been able to secure berths on boats proceeding to either Lowestoft or Yarmouth.

28/10/23
TOLSTA PUBLIC SCHOOL - ANNUAL DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES

On Tuesday of last week, the annual distribution of prizes took place in the Tolsta Public School. Mr.D. MacDonald, Headmaster, who presided, said they were all glad to have present with them again ex-Provost, Roderick Smith,Stornoway, representing the Lewis School Management Committee and Rev. Alexander Ross, Stornoway, who had come to examine the Senior pupils in Gaelic reading. Continuing, he said the year just completed, had been a period of satisfactory progress in the School - the health of the children had been good, there had been none of the usual closures on account of epidemics and the School had been well staffed. He paid high compliments to the efficiency of all members of the Staff, who had worked strenuously to bring the School, which had in recent years suffered so much from epidemic closures, up to the desired standard of efficiency. They were glad to see that local pupils attending the Nicolson Institute, were doing so well, one of whom was next to the Dux, while another got the first Prize in his own Class. He found, he said, that there was now a much greater desire than in previous years, on the part of more pupils to proceed to a Higher Grade School and when such was the case, it was a great pity that the Education Authority had to curtail its expenditure as far as the granting of Bursaries was concerned.

Ex-Provost Smith, before handing out the Prizes, said that he was glad to be with them once again. He knew that Rev. Mr. Cameron, the Chairman of the Lewis School Management Committee, would have been with them also if he could. He was glad to hear from their Teachers, that of the two hundred children who had been present when he handed out the Prizes last year, every one was spared and in good health. He was glad to see the children looking so healthy and he hoped they would have a year of much progress in their School, where they were being prepared to become useful citizens. He commented favourably on the careful selection made by the Teachers, when ordering their Prize-books and this led him to speak of the value of good literature brought into their life and character. Rev. Alex Ross, after the prizes had been handed out, addressed the children in Gaelic. He told them he was very fond of Gaelic, that he was pleased to see so many of them were able to read it and that he hoped to see the day, when every School in the North will be giving instruction in that lovely language. He trusted that those of them, who obtained Prizes that day, would be urged on to greater diligence and that those who did not manage to gain one this year, would try to get one next year, but the best award of all, was to live noble lives, whose influence would tell for good amongst their fellows.

The Meeting was opened and closed with Prayer.

THE PRIZE LIST

SUPPLEMENTARY CLASS - UPPER SECTION

1. DUX PRIZE - Annie M. MacLennan
2. Annie MacIver
3. HISTORY AND GARDENING - Alex MacIver

SUPPLEMENTARY CLASS - LOWER SECTION

1. (Equal) Angus MacIver and Donald Morrison
3. Mary MacIver (a)
4. Murdina Murray
5. Mary MacLeod
RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE AND ATTENDANCE - Barbara Murray

SENIOR l

1 (Equal) Matilda C. MacDonald and Mary MacIver (b)
3. Donald MacIver
4. Mary MacIver (c)
5. Catherine MacRitchie
6. Angus MacIver (b)
RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE - Catherine Murray
ATTENDANCE - Johanna MacDonald and Margaret MacKay

SENIOR ll

1. Annie Murray
2. John Smith
3. Mary Murray
4. Marion MacDonald
5. Murdo Murray
RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE - Allan MacIver
ATTENDANCE- Murdo MacKenzie, Murdo Smith, John MacLeod, Murdo MacIver and Jane Murray
SEWING - Christina MacLeod

SENIOR lll

1. Chrissie M. MacDonald
2. Mary MacIver
3. Donald MacDonald
4. Katie M. MacLeod
5. Murdo MacKay
6. Donald Campbell
RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE - Chrissie Campbell
ATTENDANCE - Catherine Ann MacDonald, Allan MacKenzie and Isabella MacKenzie

JUNIOR l

1. (Equal) Donald Murray and Margaret Smith
3. Margaret Murray
4. Murdo MacLeod
5. (Equal) Jessie MacIver and Angus Murray
WRITING - John Campbell (b)
ATTENDANCE - John MacKenzie, Gormelia Murray, Donald MacIver, Margaret M. MacKenzie and Murdo MacDonald

JUNIOR ll

1. (Equal) Murdo Graham and Catherine Smith
3. Jessie MacIver
4. Jessie Smith
5. Donald Campbell
RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE - John MacIver
ATTENDANCE - Donald W. MacDonald, John Murray and Annie Campbell

JUNIOR lll

1. Catriona Murray
2. (Equal) Lily MacKay and John Morrison
4. Angus Campbell
5. Christina MacDonald
RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE - Annabella MacKenzie
ATTENDANCE - John MacDonald, John Murray, Angus MacLeod and John Murray (b)

INFANTS (HIGHER)

1. Margaret Murray
2. Mary Campbell
3. Maggie Mary Murray
4. Donald MacRitchie
5. Colin Campbell
6. Annie MacMillan
RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE - Annie B. Murray
ATTENDANCE - Murdo Murray, Angus MacIver and Annie MacMillan

INFANTS (LOWER)

1. Gormelia MacKay
2. Christina MacLeod
3. Roderick MacKay
4. John A. MacKenzie
5. Angus MacLeod
ATTENDANCE - Norman C. MacDonald and Murdo Murray

There were also 14 Merit Certificates handed out to present and former pupils.

THE STORM
A storm of great severity, for this time of year, swept over this district on Tuesday, 9th October. Indeed, many of the old people assert that this storm exceeded in intensity even that of 1882 - the year which is still spoken of in Lewis as, "Am bhliadhna a agapadh an t arbhar."
Early in the morning there were vivid flashes of lightning, accompanied by showers and strong gusts of wind. Many of the crofters were astir long before daybreak and the most of these were able to get their corn, which had yet been lying in small stooks on the crofts, well secured before the storm reached its height. The usual method adopted here under similar circumstances is to make small heaps of the corn, which is then covered with spadefuls of the soil.
In many cases however, the corn of some of the Crofters was carried by the wind to neighbouring crofts and thus one finds corn belonging to several people indiscriminately mixed. As the wind was blowing from the west, some of the corn in very exposed places near the sea was swept into the Tolsta Bay.
The storm continued to increase in force till 10am. and it was about 2pm. before there was any noticeable improvement. The roofs of some of the thatched houses began to give way, but the men were always on the alert to render assistance. There was however, one wooden shed blown away, but otherwise, the damage to property was insignificant.

13/12/23
COCOA FUND
Mr. D. MacDonald, Headmaster of Tolsta P. S., begs to acknowledge receipt of a Donation of 20s. sent by Mr. Angus MacIver, 44 Offord Street, Burnsbury, London, towards the above Fund. Mr. MacIver, who is a native of this district, has been in business in London for many years. With the amount of money already in hand, the children from Glen Tolsta hamlet, as well as those from New Tolsta and outlying portions of the township, will be provided at School with a mid-day cup of cocoa, for at least three months. If more Funds were available, the most needy children living near the School, would also be supplied. We are much indebted to Sir William D. M. Cotts and to Mr. MacIver for their Donations.

A TOLSTA CANADIAN
In a Canadian paper which we read recently, we noticed in a paragraph which was extolling the wonderful recuperative properties of the soil and climate of Alberta, that eleven pounds of potatoes in four tubers, was the record of Mr. Murdoch Campbell, Edmonton South and that three of these tubers were in one hill. Mr. Campbell, who is a son of the late Murdo Campbell, 34 North Tolsta, emigrated to Canada many years ago. We understand he has been very successful since he went there.
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10/1/24
MARRIAGE BELLS
On Thursday, 20th December, Mr. John MacMillan, (Donald), Glen Tolsta, was married to Christina, eldest daughter of Mr. Murdo MacKay, 42 North Tolsta. The Rev. Roderick MacKenzie, Back, officiated. During the past two years, there have not been so many local weddings as there used to be in previous years, but altogether over forty local couples have been married since the end of the War.

METAL BREAKERS
About a score of the village men have been engaged in metal breaking during the past three weeks. Several of these men had previous experience of this kind of work, but the remuneration received for the work finished, has been so poor, that the men ceased operations last week. It worked out at only three pence an hour. The stones obtainable in the neighbourhood of the quarries, where the men worked, were somewhat difficult to break. Reports from the Back district show, that the pay was equally poor there. It is to be hoped, that work of a more remunerative kind will be provided for the needy people, of whom there are thousands today in Lewis. If the men were allowed to start resurfacing the roads, where such is required, they would certainly make a living wage. Those here have a good deal of experience in road-making.

EMIGRATION
We hear that some young men are thinking of emigrating to the Colonies, particularly to Canada, if they could get some assistance from the Canadian Government for their passage. In this connection, it is worth giving the names of local young people, who have emigrated to Canada and to the United States, during the past year:- Misses Annabella and Catherine Murray, 49 North Tolsta; Mr. John MacLeod, 45; Misses Christina and Dolina MacLennan, 35; Miss Christina MacLeod, 34; Messrs. Murdo and Alexander MacLean, 63;Mr. and Mrs. Walker, 31; Mr. Donald MacLeod, 53; Miss Kate Mary MacLeod, 14; Miss Margaret MacDonald, 61; Miss Annie MacIver, 82; Mr. Donald Murray, 27; Messrs. Kenneth and Donald Smith, 24, both of whom have been residents in Glasgow. We are glad to hear, that they are all getting on very well in the Far West.

17/1/24
EMIGRATION
Rev. M. McKerracher, of Oban, gave on 10th January, in the local School, a Lecture on Canada, illustrated by lime-light views. There was a crowded audience and Mr. D. Cameron, J.P., presided. Mr. McKerracher, in an interesting speech, told of his own experiences of the Far West and of the adaptability of Lewismen, to the conditions prevailing in the Dominions. The more of them who emigrated there, the better for themselves and for the prosperity of Canada. The Lecturer was cordially thanked for his address.

31/1/24
VENISON
A second consignment of venison has been delivered here and a Committee of men, selected by the two local
congregations, have distributed this among the needy people in the district. This consignment, being smaller than the former one, could not be shared among so many families. Those gifts of venison are highly appreciated by the people.

A NARROW ESCAPE
On Wednesday night, 16th January, while the steam drifter, "Primrose", was fishing off Tiumpan Head, the Skipper, Mr. Alexander MacIver, 4 North Tolsta, fell overboard. It appears that when the accident happened, MacIver, with other members of the crew, was fishing for coalfish. The sea was very choppy at the time and he lost his footing and fell backward, into the sea. He was slightly stunned at first and being clad in seaboots and oilskins, he was almost powerless. One of the members of the crew, by cleverly utilising the means at his disposal, managed to get a hold of MacIver, who, we understand, now feels none the worse of his experience.

6/3/24
There is very much sickness in the district. By order of Dr. Miller, M.O.H., the School is closed for one week and reopens on 3rd March. This is owing to an outbreak of influenza, there being almost one case in every household. There have been four cases of pneumonia and two have succombed.
Bella MacIver, a little girl of 2 years 3 months, residing at 26 North Tolsta, died last week and Margaret MacLeod, another little girl, residing at 59 North Tolsta, died on the 26th February. Much sympathy is felt for the parents.

13/3/24
INFLUENZA
An epidemic of influenza is raging in this district, with dreadful severity. Whole families are striken down. This epidemic has assumed such proportions, that it seemed to be more in the nature of a plague than anything else. There have been eight deaths in three weeks.

20/3/24
EMIGRATION
Captain F. H. Stewart, the Ontario Govenment's Travelling Emigration Representative, was at the School on Wednesday, 12th March, to interview prospective farm workers for Ontario farms. We undersrtand eight young men were accepted for the sailing of s.s. "Marloch", from Stornoway, on 28th April.

OBITUARIES
Another case of two deaths in one home has just occurred. A young woman of about 40 years of age and her child of five years died within a few minutes of each other. Their names are, Mrs. Torquil Campbell and her daughter, Angusina, residing at New Tolsta. The husband was unable to attend the funeral, as he and other members of the family are suffering from influenza.

8/5/24
COCOA FUND
£1 anonymous gift received with thanks.

The local Committee for the relief of distress meets weekly, every Wednesday evening, from 8 to 10pm., in the Public School. All persons wishing relief are requested to be in attendance at the School on Wednesday, from 8 to 10pm., (Summer time), in order that their case may be considered by the Committee.

GENERAL NOTES
Spring work on the crofts and peat cutting have now begun. There is also a gang of men resurfacing a half mile of road. On the completion of this work, it is understood that another portion of road is to be pegged out and work begun at once. The men are very grateful for getting this work. The two crates of cabbages received here were divided and among those with gardens. The plants were a private gift from Mr. Scarlett and this gentleman's generosity is much appreciated.

7/8/24
DAIRYING CLASS
The women of the district are gratified to learn that Miss MacPherson, of the College of Agriculture, is coming to the district to give Lectures and practical instruction in butter and cheese making and in the handling of milk. The first Meeting will be held in the School on Monday, 11th August, at half past seven o'clock and all those interested are invited to attend. It is understood that Miss MacPherson will remain in the district till the end of August.

2/10/24
VISIT OF H.M. INSPECTOR
H.M. Inspector, Mr. Lang, visited the school on Friday, 26th September, when he reviewed the classwork and inspected the school premises.

2/10/24
LOCAL ENTERPRISE
We welcome the spirit of enterprise shown by Mr. Evander MacIver, 43 North Tolsta, who has placed a new Ford passenger van on the Tolsta-Stornoway route. It is the third vehicle of this type to be placed at the service of the public on that route.

TOLSTA PUBLIC SCHOOL
The new Headmaster, Mr. Murdo MacLeod, M.A., took up duties on the opening day of the session, in succession to Mr. Donald MacIver, who was appointed to Duns, Berwickshire. Mr. MacLeod, acted as Geography Master on the Staff of Wick High School, before coming to Lewis.

SUCCESS OF LOCAL STUDENT
We are pleased to observe, that Mr. Donald Cameron, youngest son of Mr. Donald Cameron, J.P., has completed his first Proffessional Examination in Medicine, at Glasgow University. Mr. Cameron, who entered the University a year ago, has enhanced his very successful record by taking a very high place in all his classes at Glasgow.

30/10/24
POLITICS
Each of the three Candidates for the Western Isles, addressed Meetings in the School during the week. They were not well attended by the Electors; but it is to be hoped that this is no indication of a poor turn-out next Wednesday.

SOP AS GACH SEID
Bha an t-side ro mhath air an Fhoghar so, agus tha surd air beag is mor a nis a buain a' bhuntata, an deigh an t-eorna 's an coirce chuir gu seasgair san iollain. Cha'n eil eagal am bliadhna gu'm biodh gainne mu Shamhuinn.

GENERAL OUTLOOK
Not since 1913, has so many men and women left the village for the English fishing. A good number of them did fairly well during the Summer season at the Scottish ports and not the least successful of them were the crews of the two local motor-boats at Stornoway. The cereal crops have already been secured in good seasonable weather and the outlook for the Winter is at present comfortable and reassuring.

30/10/24
SACRAMENTS
The Sacraments were conducted in both Churches here on Sunday, October 5th. In the Free Presbyterian Church, the Services were held in the hands of the Rev. Mr. MacDonald, Portree and the Rev. Mr. MacIntyre, Edinburgh and late of Stornoway. His many friends in the village were glad to see Mr. MacIntyre among them again and to learn that his health has greatly improved since his settlement in Edinburgh. the Rev. Mr. MacLeod, Ness and the Rev. Mr. MacIver, Crossbost, held Services in the Free Church during the week, when large Congregations testified to the ever-growing popularity of these gentlemen.

13/11/24
APPOINTMENT
Miss MacLeod, Aird, Point, who has been appointed Infant Mistress, took up duties in the School on Monday. Miss MacLeod previously held an appointment at Valtos, Uig.

TWO TOLSTAS
Now and again the postal authorities and others outwith the Island direct commiunications to us which are really meant for the district of Tolsta Chaolais. It should be noted that the full postal address of this area is North Tolsta, Stornoway.

LOCAL FISHING
The one or two small boats going after the haddock had no luck last week. Trawlers are too often in the offing or on the trail from here to Tiumpan Head to leave much behind for a small line.

4/12/24
DEPARTURE
Mr. Allan Cameron, eldest son of Mr. Donald Cameron, J.P., has left to join one of the Federal Boats as Fourth Officer. We are glad to know that Mr. Cameron, sails under another Lewis mariner, Captain Alex MacRae, Back.

18/12/24
OUTBREAK OF WHOOPING COUGH
An outbreak of this infectious disease is reported in the village, but we hope thast it wont become epidemic. It is at present confined to one family.

NEW TOLSTA SETTLEMENTConsiderable hardship is being caused to the holders at New Tolsta by the failure of the Board of Agriculture to provide a road leading to the peat bogs at the north end of the Farm. But we hope that this state of affairs will soon be remedied now that Mr. Livingstone is back to Westminster.

BRILLIANT STUDENT
To gain the premier place in the highest Class in the Nicolson Institute has always been considered an achievement of destinction, yet this is the noteworthy performance of George Morrison, who went into Class Vl, at the beginning of this session. He is a son of Mr. John Morrison, 46 North Tolsta and we heartily congratulate them both on what is perhaps unique in the records of the higher Classes.
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8/1/25
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS
The School closed for the Christmas vacation on Friday, 26th December, to be re-opened on Monday, 5th January.

APPOINTMENT OF NEW TEACHER
Mr. Arthur D.C. MacKay, (Edinburgh), has been appointed to the School in addition to the present Staff. Mr. MacKay, who is a native of Sutherlandshire and a Gaelic speaker, will take up duties on 12th January.

MARRIAGE
Mr. Angus Cameron, Poolewe and Miss Mary Murray, North Tolsta, were married recently at Inverbroom.

19/2/25
SUNDAY SCHOOL SOIREE
The children attending the Sabbath School conducted by Mrs. Cameron, under the auspices of the West Coast Mission, recently held their annual Social evening in the School. The catering arrangemnets were admirably carried out by Mrs. Cameron and the lady teachers, while the musical side of the programme, which consisted of Hymns, Songs and Gramophone selections, were skillfully conducted by Miss Cathie MacKenzie. Mr. Duff, of the West Coast Mission, who has always taken a keen interest in the children of the village, sent the usual supply of cakes and to him, to Mrs. Cameron, the lady teachers and Mr. Hector MacKay, the evening's enjoyment was in no small measure due.

RESIGNATION OF DR. MILLER, S.M.O.
It is with a sense of loss that the children and parents of this district have heard of Dr. Miller's resignation from the post of School Medical Officer. She always took a very deep interest in the welfare of the School children here and her efforts on their behalf, especially last year, deserve the gratitude of old and young.

19/2/25
DISGRACEFUL CONDITION OF ROAD
Judging from Mr. MacKenzie's letter in the "Gazette", "Cha'n ann an aon ait' tha 'n t-olc!", but the condition of the branch of the country road, leading to the Tolsta graveyard, must surely be the worst, even in Lewis. Apart from public duty altogether, Christian respect must verily have decayed in our midst, when we have to wade ankle-deep in mud, to lay our dead to rest. We hope the Public bodies concerned will at once take steps to remedy the unbecoming state of the highway.

26/2/25
LOCAL ATHLETE
In the long-distance cross country race between Aberdeen and Glasgow Universities last week, the name of Mr. Donald Cameron appears on the list as fourth man in. He was the second Glasgow runner to reach the winning post.

12/3/25
VOLUNTARY WORKER
The Chief Area Officer, Ministry of Pensions, Inverness, announces that Miss Jane Thomson, Teacher's Bungalow, North Tolsta, has been registered as an accredited Voluntary Worker, under the Ministry and all Life Certificates, etc., in this area, must now be attested by Miss Thomson.

19/3/25
SCHOOL MEDICAL INSPECTION
Dr. Brodie, School Medical Officer, assisted by Dr. MacKenzie, examined the pupils of the School on Wednesday, 11th March. They were accompanied by Dr. George Philip, M.A., D.Sc., Executive Officer.

SNOWSTORM
The recent snowstorm did considerable harm to the Teacher's Hostel, which has been rendered temporarily unfit for residence.

13/6/25
DIATOMITE DEPOSITS
In connection with the deposit of Diatomite on the holding of Mr. Donald Cameron, two representatives from a firm of Glasgow mining engineers have surveyed the district. Should the deposits prove to be of considerable extent and good average depth, it is possible that a number of men from the village may be engaged to work it.

ANOTHER QUEEN'S NURSE
Miss Christina MacKay, 42 North Tolsta, has just left to join the Queen Victoria Jubilee Institute for Nurses, Edinburgh, where she will undergo a course of training for District Nursing. Only a few months ago Miss MacKay
successfully completed her general training at Glasgow.

RELIGIOUS KNOWLEDGE EXAMINATION
On Monday, June 8th, the Rev. Mr. Cameron, F.C. Stornoway, assisted by the Rev. Roderick Morrison, High U.P. Church, Stornoway and the Rev. Mr. MacKenzie, R.C., Stornoway, examined the School.

23/7/25
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
The School closed for the Summer holidays on Thursday, 16th July.

SUCCESSFUL STUDENT
We are very glad to observe from the pass-lists at Glasgow University, that Mr. Donald Cameron, youngest son of Mr. Donald Cameron, J.P., has successfully completed the Second Proffessional Examination (Anatomy and Physiology) for the Degrees of M.B., Ch.B.

AN GLEANN SAN ROBH MI OG
His many friends here are glad to see Mr. Donald Murray, Glasgow (Domhnull Mhurchaidh Neill), once more among them. Mr. Murray has for many years been resident in Glasgow, but "the blood is strong and the heart is Highland" and he still hears the call of the Hebrides.

30/7/25
TOLSTA PUBLIC SCHOOL - LIST OF PRIZE WINNERS

JUNIOR INFANTS

1. Christina Murray and Mary A. Morrison (Equal)
3. John MacKenzie
4. Donald Graham and Roderick MacIver (Equal)

SENIOR INFANTS

1. Angus MacLeod
2. Christina MacLeod
3. Donald Nicolson
4. John MacKenzie and Kenneth Morrison

PRIMARY 1

1. Angus Campbell
2. Gormelia Murray
3. Annie Campbell
4. Johanna MacRitchie
5. Lalla Murray

PRIMARY 11

1. Christina MacDonald (New Tolsta)
2. John Morrison
3. Catriona Murray
4. Annie MacMillan

ORAL WORK - Annie B. MacIver
PROGRESS - John MacIver

PRIMARY 111

1. Murdo Graham
2. Jessie MacIver (New Street)
3. Donald Campbell
4. Catherine Smith
5. Donald MacMillan

PRIMARY 1V

1. Allan MacKenzie and Donald Murray (Equal)
3. Isabella Morrison and Margaret Murray (Equal)

PRIMARY V

1. Donald MacDonald
2. Isabella MacKenzie
3. Katie M. MacLeod

SPECIAL PRIZE - Christina Campbell

PRIMARY V1

1. Annie Murray (John)
2. Jane Murray
3. John MacIver

ADVANCED DIVISION - Mary MacIver

DUX OF SCHOOL - Mary MacIver

PRIZES FOR REGULAR ATTENDANCE

JUNIOR INFANTS - Christina Murray (71)
SENIOR INFANTS - Angus MacLeod (82)
PRIMARY 1 - Colin Campbell and Donald J. MacDonald (Equal)
PRIMARY 11 - Angus MacLeod (82): John Murray (71) and Catriona Murray
(Equal)
PRIMARY 111 - Catherine Smith
PRIMARY 1V - Margaret Murray
PRIMARY V - Murdo Smith
PRIMARY V1 - Jane Murray

Each Pupil in the Lower Infant Class received a picture book in boards.

3/12/25
PARISH COUNCIL
We regret that our esteemed former representative, Mr. John MacLennan, has been prevented by illness from coming forward at this Election. Mr. Donald Cameron, J. P., has been elected in his place.

WIDOWS AND ORPHANS PENSIONS
On Friday of last week, an Inspector from the Ministry of Pensions visited the district and investigated one or two Claims.

GALE ON EAST ANGLIAN COAST
News of a terrific gale on this part of the English Coast caused considerable anxiety among the village people here last weekend. We are glad however, to report that no mishap befell the Tolsta men who were caught in the storm.
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7/1/26
NURSING
The Hon. Secretary of the Local Nursing Association, begs to acknowledge with thanks, a donation of 10s towards the Funds of the Association, from Mr. Angus MacIver, Offord Street, London. Mr. MacIver, is an old Tolsta boy and for some years now has been contributing towards the Nursing Funds and also towards the Funds of the Lewis Hospital.

21/1/26
CHILDRENS' TREAT
The annual treat, which for the past many years has been given to the children attending the W.C.M. Sunday School, was held on the evening of Friday, 15th January. Mrs. Cameron and the other ladies connected with the W.C.M. work in the village, have always deserved the highest credit for their unselfish efforts on behalf of the children and as on former occasions, neither time nor trouble was spared, to make the treat on Friday evening the success it was.
The large amount of children and the happy spirit which seemed to inspire everyone present, not to speak of the dainty spread to which the youthful company sat down, were all that could be wished for.
Any account of the event of Friday evening would surely be incomplete, without mention of the keen interest in the children's welfare, which has always been shown by Mr. John Duff, Secretary of the West Coast Mission, Glasgow. A large and varied consignment of eatables was on this occasion again received from Mr. Duff.

28/1/26
COLLECTION
Last week, two of the senior Schoolgirls made a Collection in the district, in aid of the Northern Counties Institute for the Blind. The Collectors, Mary MacIver, 41 and Annie Murray, 71, are to be warmly congratulated on the success of their efforts, which have enabled the Headmaster to send in the sum of £6 0s 3d, to Mr. Kenneth MacLean, the representative of the Institute in Lewis.

LECTURES TO CROFTERS
The first of a series of Lectures on Agriculture, was given in the School, on Monday, 18th January, by Mr. Angus MacLeod, B.Sc. (Agri.). Mr. MacLeod has taken as his subject "Can Crofts be improved?" and the remaining Lectures will be delivered on successive Mondays. Part of Mr. MacLeod's programme, is to call on Crofters individually at suitable times and to advise them about modern means and methods.

11/2/26
COLLECTION FOR HOSPITAL
On seeing that it was not convenient to hold a Concert in the School, a Committee of Miss Isabella MacLeod, 58; Miss Margaret MacLeod, 34; Miss Jane Thomson, Teacher; Mr. Kenneth MacDonald, 51 and Mr. John Murray, 61, decided to make a house to house Collection, in aid of the Lewis Hospital.
This has proved a much more successful method of raising Funds and the sum of £16 2s; 21 dozen eggs and 4 bags of potatoes, have been handed over to the Matron. This is splendid in view of the fact that quite recently, the Free Presbyterian Church sent £4 direct to the Hospital and the Free Church, £3 2s 6d, per Rev. R. MacKenzie, Back, making in all, well over £23. The Collecting Committee wish to thank the people of Tolsta, for their generous response to their call and for their kindness to the Collectors themselves on their rounds. Special credit is due to the Elders and Office-bearers of both Churches, for their very helpful interest in the matter and Mr. Donald MacLeod, Merchant, who along with Mr. Angus MacLeod, Merchant, tapped the subscription list and saw to the safe packing and delivery of the eggs and potatoes.

NURSING ASSOCIATION
The local Nursing Committee met on Wednesday of last week, Mr. John MacLennan, Convenor, presiding. Mr. Roderick MacKay, Secretary and Treasurer, submitted Nurse Cameron's Report for the past year. It showed that the Nurse during the year, had attended 274 patients, including 26 maternity cases and had paid 2,163 visits to these patients. The Committee thereafter had under consideration the revised rules issued by the
Board of Health, in which it is required that a sum of 2s 6d annually be paid by each family for the services of the Nurse. This is an increase of one shilling per family. The Collectors reported that this new Levy was cheerfully given and thus a proportional increase was made in the collection, which amounted to £24 19s. This, the Committee considered very satisfactory, in view of the failure of the fishing and the scarcity of employment. The nurse and the Collectors were cordially thanked for their services. That Nurse Cameron paid so many visits to the sick during the year, clearly shows that she worked strenuously during that period and that her own and the West Coast Mission's services are appreciated.

20/5/26
SCHOOL MEDICAL INSPECTION
On Wednesday, 28th April, Dr. Brodie, S.M.O. for the County, paid his usual visit and examined the School children. He was accompanied by the Assistant Medical Officer and Nurse Cameron.

DISTRICT NURSING
Nurse Christina MacKay, 42 Tolsta, is at present carrying on the work of District Nurse, in the absence of Nurse Cameron on holiday.

10/6/26
BIBLE EXAMINATIONS
On Friday last, the Rev. Mr. MacKenzie, Back, visited the School and examined all the Classes in Bible Knowledge and Shorter Catechism.

A COMING ATHLETE
Last Session at Glasgow University, Mr. Donald Cameron, Medical Student, made a name for himself as a long-distance runner and this Session, he has added considerably to his reputation as an athlete, by being made a "Full Blue" - the high