Category: Out and about

There were a large number of tractor demonstrations held after the Second World War. A number of these were held by implement and machine makers as well as their agents. They included the Caledonian Implement Works, St Ninians, Stirlingshire, the Reekie Engineering Company, Laurencekirk, Angus, Grassick’s Garage, Ltd, Blairgowrie, Perthshire, and J. M. Millar Ltd, motor engineers, Callender Road Garage, Falkirk.

These demonstrations were reported in local newspapers. These are worth quoting at length to see the variety of demonstrations that were arranged, the implements and machines that were put under demonstrated and the quality of their work.

“Tractor demonstration (from Falkirk herald, 11 October 1947)

Agriculturists from all parts of the Eastern District were present at Wester Jaw Farm on Saturday when a demonstration of the Ferguson tractor was given by Mr Alex Scott, proprietor of the Caledonian Implement Works, St Ninians, sole agent and distributor for Stirlingshire and Clackmannanshire. Keen interest was shown in the manner in which the Ferguson tractor performed with the various Ferguson implements attached. The ten-inch two-furrow plough, and harrows, cultivators and ridgers were shown in operation. There was also shown the Ferguson tractor-operated potato digger. Fitted with a tractor power lift and operated by power drive, it can dig four acres of potatoes in a day. The efficiency of the Ferguson mower and disc harrow was demonstrated, and much interest was shown by the farmer audience in the link-box and pulley attachment. The link-box is a carrier which does away with the need for draw bar and trailer, and is capable of carrying loads up to 8 cwts. An automatic release on the mower on display was favourably commented on. The automatic release comes into operation whenever a hidden obstruction is met with causing the instrument to swing in behind the trailer thus preventing damage being done to the mower. The demonstration was given by permission of Mr Foster, and in the course of the proceedings hot snacks were provided by Mr Scott and his office staff.”

“Successful demonstration (from Mearns leader, 26 March 1948)

Over two hundred people associated with agriculture in the county attended the Ferguson tractor demonstration on Saturday on the farm of Redmyre (Mr W. S. Garden), Fordoun, organised by the Reekie Engineering Company, Laurencekirk. Great interest was shown in the various kinds of implements in action. Various pieces of agricultural machinery included spike tooth and disc harrows, a ridger, and two types of tine row crop cultivators. Farmers showed exceeding interest in a compact hydraulically and belt operated power wood saw which fitted to the rear of the Ferguson tractor. Instruction and information were given with a loud-speaker system.”

“Tractor demonstration at Denhead (Blairgowrie advertiser, 26 March 1948)

A big turnout of farmers watched a demonstration at Easter Denhead Farm, Cupar Angus (Mr David Adamson), which showed the versatility and range of the David Brown power-controlled equipment.

A field of good land, but very steep, was deliberately chosen by the distributors, Grassick’s Garage, Ltd, Blairgowrie, to provide a convincing test.

The spectators saw two Cropmaster tractors, with deep-digger ploughs-which in action become an integral part of the tractor-ploughing in dung.

The Cropmaster Six operated on a steep sandy gradient with a two-furrow semi-digger plough. The ploughing was done to eight inches.

The tractors are fitted with an overload release, which throws out the clutch when the plough strikes an obstruction. The Cropmaster Four is fitted with a four-speed gear-box, and the Cropmaster Six with a six-speed. The gear-boxes embody the pioneer work done in this field by David Brown.

Both tractors, on 28inch tyres, have a drawbar pull of 3400 pounds. They run economically on paraffin, with David Brown’s own design of vaporiser, and start on petrol.

Other equipment seen included hay mower, power driven potato spinner, strong-tine cultivator, three-furrow ridger, two-speed power take-off pulley.

All the tractors on view had been sold and will be delivered this week.”

“Tractor demonstration (Dundee courier, 14 May 1948)

Benholm and District J.A.C. open demonstration of tractors and implements attracted 200 to Nether Benholm Farm (Mr G. Cargill).

Mr A. Shepherd, North of Scotland College of Agriculture, demonstrated a sectioned tractor engine and talked on several types of tractors.

Exhibits were from Messrs A. T. Mungall, Forfar (Fordson Major tractor and implements); Messrs Ross (Friockheim) (David Brown tractor and implements).

Messrs J. Oswald & Son, Brechin, demonstrated their three-way hydraulic tipper.

Ferguson tractor and equipment and a Tullos Wilmo manure distributor were also shown.”

“Tractor demonstration (Dundee courier, 25 November 1948)

Despite foggy weather there was a good attendance of farmers yesterday at Bandoch Farm, Inverkeilor (Mr A. P. Jackson), where David Brown tractor demonstration was held. Six tractors, with various implements attached, were used,

Demonstration was arranged by Mr G. A, Ross & Co., Friockheim, main David Brown distributors.”

“Agricultural work (Falkirk herald, 5 November 1949)

Tractor demonstration by Falkirk firm

There was a large attendance of farmers from local and surrounding districts at Plean Farm on Wednesday, when Messrs J. M. Millar Ltd, motor engineers, Callender Road Garage, Falkirk, presented a demonstration by the Fordson Demonstration Unit of some of the latest farm machinery.

The demonstration was carried out under actual working conditions, and the greater part of the proceedings was devoted to the tractor and the wide range of farm implements used in conjunction with the tractor. Included in those implements demonstrated were ploughing, hoeing, harrowing, and potato-digging attachments. The machinery was put through its paces under the critical eye of a large audience of farmers, and judging by the approval registered on the faces of the onlookers, the performances were of a very satisfactory nature. A very up-to-date hydraulic loader was demonstrated almost continuously, and was the subject of close inspection by many of those present.

Tractor-driven generator

A broad variety of parts for the repair and maintenance of Fordson tractors was on display under a large marquee, and attention was drawn to the Fordson exchange plan and replacement service. Under this scheme, parts which are worn out may be replaced at greatly reduced prices. There were also on display various types of headlamps for motor cars, together with an air compressor unit which can be used for either spray painting or tyre inflation. It was interesting to note that the electricity required for demonstration and lighting purposes in the marquee was supplied from a tractor engine coupled to a small generator.

Perhaps the thing that said most for the quality of the tractors being demonstrated was a tractor made in 1918, and which was still giving service. Alongside this stood a rare veteran of the cars produced before the Great War. This particular Ford was produced in 1912 and is the property of Messrs J. M. Millar Ltd. To convince those present that it was still in working order, it was driven around the marquee after the ancient engine had been subjected to a certain amount of persuasion.

The demonstration was completely successful, though it was felt that had it been possible to stage it at the week-end an even greater attendance would have been attracted.”

“Fordson tractor demonstration (Callander advertiser, 5 November 1949)

Interesting Plean work-out

The first and largest Fordson Major demonstration arranged by dealers ever held in Scotland took place at Plean Farm, Plean, on Wednesday, by courtesy of Mr Robert Binnie. It was sponsored by John M. Miller Ltd, Falkirk, and Millars’ Garage (Stirling) Ltd, for whom organisational details were handled by Mr J. W. Lindsay and Mr C. S. Sharpe.

Dealers from as far afield as Aberdeen, Kirkcaldy, Forfar, Dundee, Glasgow, and Ayr attended to get some wrinkles on how to stage a similar show themselves. In addition, of course, there was a big attendance of farmers.

Nineteen complete tractor outfits and thirty-six implements were fielded. In addition, there was a display of accessories and service parts for the repair and maintenance of Fordson Major tractors. Messrs Raines & Co., Stirling, co-operated in showing certain implements used in conjunction with the Fordson tractor and several makers of equipment allied to the Fordson Major were also associated with the demonstrated. Fourteen farm operations – six of them ploughing – including cultivating, ridging, rotary, hoeing, draining, spraying, harrowing, and row cropping (with opening and closing drills) were demonstrated.

The operations were described by radio from the driving seat of the tractors by the drivers. Also on view were a Bray hydraulic lift and a Chaseside shovel used in public works excavations.

Seen for the first time were F. R. reversible single and double furrow ploughs. Hitherto ploughs of this type have been available in this country only as horse-drawn or trailing equipment. The new ploughs are light and can be mounted and transported by the Fordson Major’s hydraulic power lift without interfering with the tractor’s ability.

Reversible ploughs’ advantages

With such ploughs there is no need to mark out the field. Consequently, valuable time is saved. Time is also saved at the turns since there is no idle headland running, apart from actual turning. On hillsides it is possible to turn all the furrows up hill. This means that soil erosion can be reduced because it is possible to turn the furrows up the hillsides at each ploughing and greater tractor stability is obtained since the uppermnost wheel always runs in the furrow thereby decreasing the angle of the tractor. Time is saved on final cultivation because there are no openings and no finishes, and undulations caused by openings and finishes are eliminated. Therefore, the consequent damage to combines, binders, and other following machinery is reduced to a minimum.

The County Tractor tracklayer was the next most interesting exhibit. It is designed to embody the same engine, gear-box and double reduction unit as used in the Fordson Major but there is no differential. It has been produced to meet the demand for a crawler tractor of medium and low price yet suitable for heavy work. Three power units are available, the Fordson Major petrol, vapourising oil engines, and the Perkins P. 6 Diesel engine.

Just one of the many uses of the Fordson Major as a power source was illustrated by attaching one to a dynamo which supplied electric light to all the tents in the field.”

“Tractor demonstration (Fifeshire advertiser, 3 December 1949)

A display of John Brown’s power controlled farming implements, and a demonstration of methods for using these was given at Farmlands, Leslie, on Tuesday afternoon to an interested company of farmers and agriculturists, by Messrs J. B. W. Smith Ltd, Cupar.”

In Scotland ploughing matches started to be held in the late eighteenth century. By the first decade of the nineteenth century matches were held in a number of locations across Scotland. One such match was held in Easter Ross; it continues to be held today.

There are a number of accounts of the match in local and regional newspapers. They provide a good deal of detail about the match: when and where it was held; the state of the weather and the field; the standard of ploughing; the classes in the match; the prizewinners; and social activities associated with the match.

The following two accounts are of the match some eighty years apart:

“Easter Ross-ploughing match (from Inverness courier, 17 March 1853)

The Easter Ross ploughing match took place on the 10th inst, on the farm of Meikle Tarrel, and the competition was in every respect one of the finest and most successful that has been held for some years. The weather was admirable, and a good field and horses in high fetle combined to make the best energies of the men be put forth. The medal of the Highland Society gave an additional impetus to the contest; and it is only fair to the unsuccessful candidates to quote the remark of the judges-“that the whole ploughing was excellent, and the grooming of the horses better than at any previous exhibition which they had witnessed.”

After great trouble and attention the following awards were made by the judges, Messrs Mackenzie, Rhynie, and Chisholm, Bindal-

Ploughing

1st prize to Robert Campbell, servant to Mr Douglas, Arboll, 30s and the Highland Society’s medal.

2d to William Mackenzie, servant to do. Do, 15s

3d to John Munro, servant to Mr Murray of Geanies, 10s

4th to Benjamin Henderson, servant to Mr Gilchrist, Shandwick, 5s.

Grooming

1st prize, to Benjamin Henderson, servant to Mr Gilchrist, Shandwick, 30s

2d to John Macdonald, servant to Mr Sim, Balintraid, 15s

3d to John Taylor, servant to Mr Douglas, Aboll, 10s

4th to Donald Macandle, servant to Mr Murray, Lochslin, 5s

There were forty-three competitors on the field.

A very pleasant day-one of the delightful ones which we are sometimes blessed with the north country as a sort of oasis in our wretched springs-was concluded by a convivial and agreeable evening, in the course of which a full and hearty bumper was pledged to the good health and happiness of the ploughmen. It is no compliment to say that there is not a more decent and respectable body of servants in any district than the ploughmen of Easter Ross; and it is very gratifying to observe the cordial goodwill with which they meet each other at these gatherings.”

“Easter Ross ploughing match (North star and framers’ chronicle, 17 February 1934)

Annual competition at Bayfield

The annual ploughing match for the Easter Ross district took place on Saturday at Bayfield, Nigg, the property of Mr Wemyss Budge. For the greater part of the day the weather was highly favourable, and no better field could be desired for the execution of high-class ploughing.

There was an entry of thirty-ploughs-fifteen of these being high-cutters, and the remaining fifteen of the chilled variety. The field during the day was visited by a number of people interested in the work and who watched the process of theur favourite competitor.

The judging of horses, harness and ploughing were in the capable hands of Mr K. Macleaan, manager, Newmore, and Mr Robertson, manager, Dunrobin Home Farm, whose adjudication gave the utmost satisfaction. The promoting Association is managed by a body of capable gentlemen who have Mr Geo, Douglas, Nigg Farm, as president; Mr Joseph Budge, vice-president; Mr Wemyss Budge, treasurer, and Mr David Johnston, Broomton, as secretary. The grieves of the various farms within the area act as Committee of Management.

It was early seen that redoubtable craftsman, R. Gunn, Burgage Farm, Tain, would repeat his former triumphs. He was repeatedly taken leading prizes at various competitions in Easter Ross. He was closely followed by W. Sutherland, Milton. It took expert knowledge to know where the difference lay.

Donald Mackenzie, Nigg farm, has reason to be proud of his accomplishments. He won the Association silver cup for most points in ploughing and harness, the Highland Society’s medal for the best rig (local) and K. Mackenzie, Evanton, medal for the best ploughed rig in the field.

At the close of the competition, Mrs Joseph Budge, Easter Rarichie, handed out the prizes, for which she was thanked by Mr D. Johnston, and the judges were thanked by Mr Joseph Budge.

The following was the prize list:-

Open high cutters-1. R. Gunn, Tain; 2. W. Sutherland, Milton; 3. Jas Sutherland, Kincraig; 4. Robt Sutherland, Morangie; 5. G. Robertson, Aldie; 6. J. Calder, Hilton; 7. A. Fraser, Polnicol; 8. J. Shearer, Polnicol; 9. D. Munro, Cadboll; 10. A. Robertson, Culnaha; 11. D. Gunn, Balaldie; 12. M. Mackenzie, Clay of Allan, Feering, finish, and straightest rig-R. Gunn, Tain.

Local high cutters-1. D. Robertson, Bayfield; 2. A. Ross. Broomton; 3. R. Macleod, W. Rarichie, Feering, D. Robertson; finish and straightest rig, A. Ross.

Ransomes-1. John Beattie, Cullisse; 2. David Sinclair, Ankerville; 3. Don Ross, Wester Rarichie; 4. Alex beattie, Cullisse; 5. Hugh Fraser, Pitcalzean. Feering, John Beattie; finish and straightest rig, D. Sinclair.

Sellars-1. D. Mackenzie, Nigg; 2. John Mackimmie, Pitcalzean; 3. Chas Ross, Nigg; 4. Alex Munro, Wester rarichie; 5. Andrew Fraser, castlecraig; 6. Wm Macdonald, easter Rarichie; 7. Hugh Robertson, Pitcalzean; 8. Chas Ross, Lodge, Nigg; 9. Alex Ross. Nigg; 10. Sydney Munro, W. Rarichie. Feering, John Mackimmie; finish and straightest rig, Don. Mackenzie.

Silver cup presented by the Association for most points in ploughing and harness-Don Mackenzie, Nigg; Highland Society Medal for best ploughed rig (local)-D. Mackenzie; best ploughed rig with chill cplough (medal by Mr K. Mackenzie, Evanton)-Don Mackenzie; best ploughed rig on field-Don Mackenzie.

Best matched pair-A. Fraser, castlecraig; best pair geldings-A. Fraser; best pair mares and also youngest pair-A. Ross, Nigg; decorations and best turnout-J. Beattie, Cullisse; best cleaned steel-H. Robertson, Pitcalzean.

Best feering (local)-J. Mackimmie; best finish (local)-D. Sinclair.

Longest service-A. Ross, Broomton; oldest ploughman-A. Fraser, Polnicol; youngest-R. Sutherland, Morangie,

Harness-peak collars-1. H. Robertson, Pitcalzean; 2. David Robertson, Bayfield; 3. John Beattie, Culleisse; low collars-1. Alex Ross, Broomton; 2. Alex Beattie, Cullisse; special-A. Ross, Broomton.”

Back in 1914 Barclay, Ross & Tough conducted its business from Balmoral Buildings, 67-71 Green, Aberdeen, and at Craigshaw, Aberdeen. It was two addresses that became closely known with its successor Barclay, Ross & Tough and Barclay, Ross & Hutchison Ltd in 1920.

Early important changes were brought about in 1915 with the retrial of Robert Tough. The business continued to be run by the remaining partners, Robert Ross and Thomas Hutchison. Mr Barclay, the other partner, had been commission agent in Aberdeen from at least 1874 and then a manure, agricultural implement and commission merchant by 1890. By 1898 he was described as “Morrison Barclay, of Barclay, Ross and Tough.

On the retrial of Robert Ross, the business was taken over by Scottish Agricultural Industries Ltd on 1 July 1929. In 1933 it advertised in the North British Agriculturist as Barclay, Ross & Hutchison Ltd, associated with Scottish Agricultural Industries Ltd”. In that year it exhibited at the Highland Show the “S.A.I. chemical dresser for all seeds”.

While B.R.H. was associated with Aberdeen, it also conducted its business outside Aberdeen. In 1930 it had a depot at Perth, followed by another at Milnathort, Montrose, in 1938 and one at Forfar in 1947. In 1955 its depots were at Milnathort, Perth, Forfar, Montrose, Turriff and Aberdeen.

The company undertook a wide range of activities. In 1955 it was an agricultural implement, machinery and equipment dealer, agricultural engineer, machinery and equipment and equipment manufacturer, dairy engineer, dairy farm equipment supplies, electrical engineer and contractor, gate and pen manufacturer, structural and roofing engineer and contractor, tractor and implement agent, dealer and distributor. For a good number of years it was also a millwright.

The company had its royal connections. In 1924 it was “by appointment agricultural implement makers to His Majesty George V” and in 1959 “by appointment to Her Majesty the Queen, Agricultural Engineers”.

The company made and sold a wide range of agricultural implements and machines. It was also an agent for a number of leading makers. In 1949 you could purchase a wide range of implements and machines from a range of makers from the company. They included the following:

Thresher, 4ft 6 in full finishing, portable type “A” in pneumatic wheels

Thresher, 4ft full finishing type “A” barn model

Turnip cutter, horizontal portable type, engine driven

Chemical dresser “Agrossan” BRH type

Sprayer, low volume 14 in spray bar, tractor coupled

Manure distributor, 9ft roller type with tractor hitch

Manure distributor, Tullos-Wilmo, tractor transporter, 17ft 4 in, on pneumatics, Tullos Ltd, Aberdeen

Tractor, Fowler, diesel crawler, Mark VF, made by John Fowler & Co. Ltd, Leeds

Tractor, Field Marshall Mark I, diesel 9mph; made by Marshall, Sons & Co. Ltd, Gainsborough

Tractor “Cropmaster” 65, 25×28 pneumatic,made by David Brown (Tractors) Ltd, Meltham

Mower, 5ft semi-direct tractor power drive, made by Tullos Ltd, Aberdeen

Combine harvester no 726, 8ft 6 in cut, self-propelled, made by Massey Harris Ltd

Combine harvester “Grain Marshall” model 568, 5ft 6 in cut, made by Marshall, Sons & Co. Ltd, Gainsborough

Potato harvester, self-propelled, made by Victoria Agricultural Machine Co. Ltd

Baler, “New Holland”, pick up, made by Sale Tilney (Agricultural) Ltd

Muck spreader, Wild-Thwaites, on pneumatic tyres, made by M. B. Wild & Co. Ltd, London

Muck Spreader, Wild-Thwaites, made by W. B. Wild & Co. Ltd, London

Engine, 7 1/2bhp, dielse, IVTH, Ruston & Hornsby Ltd, Lincoln

Plough, no. 4, Midtrack, 2 furrow with skim attachments, made by Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies Ltd, Ipswich

Plough, jumbotrack, 2 furrow with skim coulters, made by ransoms, Sims & Jefferies Ltd, Ipswich

Spring safety attachments fitted to Ransomes toolbar frame

Cultivator, rotary, made by Acre Willington Ltd, Derby

Motor scythe, made by John Allan & Sons (Oxford) Ltd

Wash troughs, single, made by Wolseley Sheep Shearing Machine Co

Bucket heater, electric, made by Wolseley Sheep Shearing Machine Co

Milk cooling plant, “Sternette”, made by L. Sterne & Co. Ltd, Glasgow

Steam chest, made by Barford (Agricultural) Ltd, Grantham

Milker, alfa portable, made by Alfa-Laval Co. Ltd, Brentford

Laying cages, battery, made by Innes Walker & Co., Glasgow

Quite a selection of implements, machines and sundries for the agriculturist sold by this eminent company!

A number of the east of Scotland newspapers included accounts of working at the travelling threshing mill. On 17 January 1964, the Arbroath Herald included one such account. It also includes an account of bothy life and the ways of life. It is worth quoting at length:

“Old time threshing on the farm

By “The Grieve”

At Carmyllie last week-end I viewed the scene of my boyhood days as a “halfling”. There had been little change here in the pastoral scene in the past fifty years. The greatest transformation on the farm has been brought about by mechanisation. Where once we could admire horses in the fields and in the stable there is a whole array of “ironmongery” doing the work more economically and more efficiently-although there are times when the horse comes into its own. When it comes to ca’in neeps on icy roads in the winter the tractor does not manage the job quite so well as old dobbin did. One old farmer friend of mane that I met at the Mart the other day and who is an ardent horse lover put it well when he said: “When ye gang intae the steadin’ in the mornin’ ye dinna get a friendly whinny fae a tractor.”

At Carmyllie and district half-a-century ago life was very different from what it is to-day. We did not visit the town so often as the young lads do nowadays. We had no radio or television and perforce had to make our own entertainment round the bothy fire of an evening, and grand nights we had with the melodian, fiddle and mouth organ. In many ways I think they were far happier times then than we are living in now, for our pleasures were simple and our wants were few, and there was a spirit of comradeship and mutual helpfulness that does not seem to be developed among the young folks of the country to quite the same extent nowadays.

In December we usually had a visit from the old threshing mill that travelled all round the Arbroath landward district and which has now vanished from the pastoral scene. If the weather was not suitable in December, the threshing mill arrived sometime in the New Year, and whenever it made its appearance there was hustle and bustle about the farm and a happy time for us all, even though we had to work hard. I remember the old mill as it came rumbling up our farm road with the dogs barking and the cottar house bairns all excited at its arrival. The coming of the threshing mill was an important occasion for us all. It arrived at night with lanterns swinging at each side and we could hear its chug-chug in the distance before we saw it. There were quite a lot of preparations that had to be made on the night before the “thresh”, and I have clear memories of the black faces of the men and the soot and grime that came off the towels when they washed themselves in the basins full of hot water from the big three-legged pot that hung on the sway over the bothy fire. To me, everything is a memory of warmth and friendliness connected with threshing in the old days.

Next morning everyone on the farm was early astir and the stackyard was full of workers, for the neighbours came to help us with our threshing in those days, and likewise we went over to their farm to help them when the time came. The engine of the threshing mill sent up great puffs of smoke and the noise silenced even the most strident voices. Work started in earnest and the dogs sniffed around the stacks with anticipation, ready to give chase to the rats that nested underneath. The women helped with the threshing, and I can see them in my mind’s eye with their wrapper skirts catching the breeze and shawls enveloping their heads. With knives at the ready, they cut the hands of the sheaves, and as the men forked for them they made a colourful picture of agricultural industry.

Some of the workers took charge of the straw that poured down the elevator in a continuous golden stream and forked it into the stack, and others took charge of the corn that rushed forth from the loose box of the mill and reached the open bags ready to receive it. Sometimes there was not a job for everyone, but the presence of a friend at the threshing was a token of his neighbourliness, and as the work went on he would tell a story or make a wise-crack. Through the din of the mill there would be the whistling of an old Scottish country dance or the snatch of a song. There was always someone who would fill a sack or two with the chaff destined for bedding in the cottar house for “chaff beds” were all the vogue in those days, and I remember the feeling of wellbeing we had when we sampled our new season’s bed of sweet smelling chaff each year.

The work stopped at mid-day for the important meal that was an enjoyable part of this communal concentration on threshing. The dinner had to be a substantial one on this occasion, and the farmer’s wife always did us well. There were double helpings of Scotch broth boiled in juicy boiling beef, with copious ingredients of neeps, carrots, peas and barley. Then came the beef which had been boiled in the broth with the barley sticking to it and its accompaniment of mashed neeps, mealie, flaky potatoes, as much as we could belly in, and rice pudding made with thick rich milk. This was all topped off with oven scones, girdle scones or pancakes washed down with tea, and the big kitchen table was the scene of a feast that has never been bettered in my experience.

Afternoon saw us back at work again hard at it with the sweat dropping off our brows, and we really had to work hard because at that time of the year the light began to fade at an early hour. As we came to the end of our day’s darg, straw lay around the stackyard in untidy drifts, and before we got “loused” there was always much sweeping to be done because it was an unwritten law that we had to clear up and leave the place as tidy as possible.”

Robert G. Garvie set up his own business in Bon Accord Lane, Aberdeen, in 1895 to make and sell a range of agricultural implements and machines, including threshing mills.

In 1966 the business was “very busy” with orders – for Africa. The success of the business was recorded in the Aberdeen evening express of 24 August 1966:

“Aberdeen firm wins big order for machines

An Aberdeen engineering firm has received an order worth £45,000 from East Africa to build and export 20 rice threshing machines.

The order came, despite “fierce opposition” from similar firms in America, to the Aberdeen-based firm of R. G. Garvie and Sons, engineers, millwrights and joiners, 2 Canal Road.

A spokesman for the firm said that it is the only one in Britain to produce the machines, which are all-steel construction.

They will go to Mali, in east Africa, where rice production is being stepped up.

The machines, costing £2250 each and of the firm’s own design, are expected to keep the 40 men employed at Canal Road “very busy indeed” from October, when building starts, will December.

Metal

A further 30 employees at a subsidiary firm, the Enterprise Sheet Metal Works will also be kept busy supplying metal for the machines.

The spokesman added: “A representative from Mali called on us recently and was shown through our works and had a chance to see the rice threshing machine. He was very impressed.

“It was as a result of his visit that we received the order-against fierce opposition from America”, he added.”

In Scotland ploughing matches started to be held in the late eighteenth century. By the first decade of the nineteenth century matches were held in a number of locations across Scotland. One such match was held in Easter Ross. An extensive account of it was published in the Caledonian Mercury. It provides a range of insights into how early matches were organised and some of the issues facing ploughing, the skill of ploughmen and ploughing developments.

“The Easter Ross branch of the Ross-shire Farming Society held their first ploughing match at Blackhill, the property of E. Hay McKenzie, Esq, of Cromarty, near Balnagown Castle, upon Thursday the 17th April last, when eleven ploughmen took their ground as competitors, for premiums granted by the Society; and after the work was accomplished, the Judges, who were selected from the most improved class of agriculturists, after a minute and critical inspection, unanimously adjudged the prizes to the following persons:

The first to John Ross, ploughman to Sir Charles Ross, of Balnagown, Bart, the second to Hugh Ross, ploughman to Hugh Rose, Esq of Glastullich; the third to Hector Bain, ploughman to E. H. McKenzie Esq of Cromarty; and the fourth prize to William McLeod, ploughman to Mr James Monro, taxman of Delny.

The ploughmen in general executed the work with so much skill and precision, that it was with some difficulty the judges could form their determination.

The members of the Society, in consideration of the different take being performed with so much regularity, gave a gratituity to each of the unsuccessful candidates, who were all amply refreshed with strong ale, spirits &c by the members present.

Mr Those of Glastullich was also present, and with that sentiment which so materially marks all his measures of a public nature, he gave a gratification to all the ploughmen that appeared.

Colonel John Ross, of Castle Craig, offered, previous to the competition, to give premiums to the south country ploughmen in the country, if they appeared, or in order to lay down a superior example to the ploughmen bred in this part, but none came forward. Colonel Ross further offered a premium for the best implements of husbandry, to those that would exceed Mr Small’s of Leith Walk, five guineas; that would equal Mr Small’s, three guineas; or that which appeared to the Society the best executed article of husbandry, three guineas. A cart made byMr John Munro at Newtarbat Shore was produced, and no other implement of husbandry having been produced, he is considered by the Society the first tradesmen in Easter Ross.

The next ploughing match of this Society is to be held in November next, of which due intimation will hereafter be given; and it is hoped there will be a more full attendance of the Gentlemen and Farmers, to countenance and forward a measure of such importance to the growing wealth of the country, and that has succeeded so perfectly in the southern parts of the kingdom.

After the ploughing match, all the members of the Society, and other gentlemen that were spectators, retired to Urquhart’s Inn, at Milntown, where they spent the evening with becoming harmony and conviviality.”

Source: The Caledonian Mercury, 15 May 1806.

The photographs were taken at the Easter Ross Ploughing March, November 2017.

We rarely get to hear the views of women on agricultural tasks, including work at the threshing mill. The arrival of the travelling mill on farms was a big occasion. It required a large number of hands coming from neighbouring farms and other ones. All these additional hands needed to be fed. This was an important task to be completed by the women. Some women also worked at the mill, undertaking a range of tasks.

An article in the Aberdeen press and journal of 1 November 1935 by a woman named “Elizabeth” provides an insightful account of the travelling mill in the north-east. I’ll let her provide her reflections in her account:

“Women enjoy the visits of the threshing machine, by Elizabeth.

This morning the steam threshing mill entered our district just as it has entered twice a year for as long as I can remember. It always comes round in October or November, and then again in February when it threshes the last of the season’s corn. Taking Scotland as a whole the portable mill is certainly becoming less and less popular with the passing of years. Farmer after farmer has been finding it more convenient to have his own indoor threshing outfit, but there are still a great many framers-more particularly farmers of the smaller type-who just carry on in the old way without any thoughts of change.

My own opinion is that if the women-folk on the farm were asked to give their opinion on the two ways of threshing they would give their vote for the other system. The women in my vicinity enjoy the visit of the travelling mill, for they know that of the weather is good it can be quite an exciting time. All the neighbours will be there to help, and provided they are in sufficient numbers the work will not be strenuous.

A social occasion

Yes, the coming of the threshing mill with all its paraphernalia is an event in the somewhat easy-going routine of the farm. If a farmer or croft happens to be particularly isolated this is one of the few opportunities which the women folk have of meeting their male neighbours in the mass. The women themselves occasionally meet on the institute nights, and the men have gatherings of their own, but it is only at concerts, dances, weddings, and at such events as the corn threshing that both sexes forgather in comparatively big numbers. In my part of the country there is usually about a score of people at an ordinary threshing, and some times the half of these will be women.

It is the exception to find anyone working for cash payment: it is nearly always a case of giving work in exchange for work. All the neighbours combine in the interests of one of their number, and all derive equal benefit in return. In the crofting districts this community spirit has deep roots in the past and is still very strong. In varying degrees it is seen in the cutting of the peats, in the sheep-dipping, and in the harvesting, but in nothing is it so apparent as in this bi-annual work of corn-threshing. Indeed that is one of the reasons why many of us like to see the old travelling mill continue on its rounds.

An ideal day

Good weather is of great importance for any kind of outdoor work, but for the corn threshing it is really the first thing to be considered. To get rain on newly threshed straw is to get the worst of luck. Even the discomfort for the workers is a secondary consideration.

An ideal day is one in which there is no rain to damage the crops and no wind to blow the straw out of control. On such a day, with a good sun shining overhead, the work can be very pleasant. Particularly is good weather needed for those whose job it is to stand on the top of the mill unfastening the sheaves for the “feeder”.

This work is nearly always done by two women who work in relays. The sheaves are pitchforked to the top of the mill where they are rapidly unfastened by the women’s nimble fingers, and passed on to the “feeder” who is always a skilled male worker.

Suited to women

Although women seem to be specially suited to the handling of the sheaves there are several things in connection with the threshing that they can do equally as well as men. It is true that only a very strong type of women can carry the sacks of corn into the barn, but there is not much else that the average woman cannot do if the threshing is being carried on under ordinary conditions. She is well suited to looking after the chaff department, and girls are usually chosen to share the work of clearing the straw from the “mouth” of the mill. And while the stack-building is always a man’s job, he likes to have a few young persons of both sexes to assist him.

But the women of the house at which the corn is being threshed have the busiest time of all, for in their hands lies the responsibility for the feeding of the whole company. Sometimes a lunch has to be prepared, but always there is a tea meal, and when twenty or thirty people have to be fed the preparation alone takes some time. Each different district has its own way of arranging things, and in some places it is customary for the workers to be called into the kitchen in relays until everyone has been served, while in other places no one is fed until the work is finished-or until there is a break-and then the whole company sits down together.

Sociability

The latter way lends more of a social atmosphere to the occasion, but it also means more work for the housewife and her assistants, for not every kitchen table can hold twenty at a time. Two tables are usually placed together, and more than the everyday amount of dishes and cutlery has to be looked for. If a lunch has to be prepared a really big pot of soup, followed by meat and potatoes and a cold sweet, needs the minimum of cooking and can be partly made on the preceding day.”

In the 1920s a number of the local newspapers, especially in the north-east and north, reported the erection of new threshing mills on a number of farms as farmers up dated their machinery or moved from using the travelling threshing mill to their own ones.

The erection of this plant was a significant occasion. It marked the introduction of new technology, a substantial investment into the farm and its activities as well as a change in the management of the processing of the grain crop. Farms generally marked this occasion with a social event in which neighbours and others were invited to partake in food and drink, and a congenial evening of activities. They also got to see the new mill at work. The feeding of the first sheaf into the mill was at some farms seen to be an important event. That task was sometimes given to a special member on the farm; it could be a long-standing farm servant or a past tenant.

The accounts in the newspapers provide varying amounts of information about the new mills. Sometimes they record the names of the maker of the mill and the mode of power for the mill (water, engine or tractor).

The following are short accounts from newspapers that record the introduction of new threshing mills onto farms in the north and north east of Scotland:

“Trial of new threshing mill at Cookney (Aberdeen press and journal, 14 January 1921)

A new threshing mill, driven by water, underwent its trials on Saturday at Monquich, Cookney.

A large number of farmers from the surrounding districts were present, and expressed great satisfaction with the superior way in which the oats were dressed ready for the market.

The company were afterwards entertained by Mr and Mrs King.”

“New threshing mill for Fordyce (Aberdeen press and journal, 8 February 1921)

Mr Wilson, Stripeside, Fordyce, who recently installed a new high-speed threshing mill driven by a 6hp oil engine, had a trail of the plant on Friday afternoon in presence of a large number of neighbours and other friends in the district. The thresher, which is furnished with up-to-date equipment for the speedy handling of the grain as it issues from the mill, gave entire satisfaction to all the agriculturists present. The company thereafter were entertained by Mr and Mrs Wilson, when several of those present gave songs and recitations.

Before the company separated, Mr Wilson was congratulated on his enterprise in having such a complete and compact machine installed on his farm.”

“Threshing mill display (Northern chronicle and general advertiser for the North of Scotland, 13 April 1921)

New plant at Inverness farm

An interesting display by the Crichton threshing-mill plant, which has been introduced at Dell of Inshes, Inverness, by Mr Wm Macallister, was witnessed on Wednesday afternoon by a large and representative assemblage of farmers and others from the surrounding districts. Within the last few months a number of the mills have been erected on farms in the Lothians and other parts of the South, and over a dozen have also been introduced on various holdings in the North. On the day previous to the installation at Dell of Inshes, a new mill and engine were started at the farm of Weston in the Black Isle, in presence of a large number of farmers.

The new mill at Dell of Insches, which is erected within the steading, is driven by a Tangye oil engine. The work is carried on smoothly and with speed, and the advantages of the new plant were clearly demonstrated. The plant, which gave evidence of being excellently designed, is fitted with his high speed drum, barley awner, double dressers, straw carriers, and chaff blowers. There is a successful arrangement whereby the chaff is delivered into the cattle courts, a distance of sixty-five feet from the mill. At Wednesday’s demonstration a capital sample of grain was being threshed at the rate of eight quarters per hour. Mr James Crichton, Strichen Engineering Works, Strichen, the sole maker of the plant, was present at the display. Mr Crichton was complimented on the excellence of his design, and the superior finish of the workmanship. The plant was supplied by Messrs ferries & Coy, motor engineers, Inverness, who have been appointed sole agents in the North for Mr Crichton. The installation was carried out under the personal direction of Mr Ferries.

Mr R. Gordon, Wester Inshes, proposed the health of their popular proprietor, Mr R. L. Mackintosh of Insches, who, he said, manifested a keen interest in all improvements on his estate, and was also much interested in his tenantry farming on up-to-date lines (applause).

The toast was cordially pledged.

Mr Alexander Munro, Leanach, said they all regretted the absence of Mr William Macallister, the enterprising tenant, who had had to go South. They were much indebted to Mr Macallister for his kindness in inviting them to witness that afternoon’s excellent demonstration, and he asked the company to pledge his good health-(applause)

The toast was heartily pledged.

On the call of Mr Johnston, Braeton of Leys, a vote of thanks was accorded Mr Crichton, who, in reply, expressed his hearty thanks to the company. On the call of Mr Maclennan, Balmachree, a similar compliment was awarded Mr Ferries, who made complete arrangements for the demonstration.”

“Threshing mill for Knockando Farm (Aberdeen press and journal, 26 January 1923)

Within the last two or three years a number of farmers in Knockando parish have invested in threshing mills. Mr Peter Hepburn, Bogroy, Elchies, has now installed one, and on Wednesday afternoon, he invited a few neighbours to see it at work. The mill is “The Smallholder”. It is driven by a six horse-power oil engine, manufactured in USA. The mill is capable of threshing about four quarters of oats per hour, and on Wednesday’s trials gave every satisfaction.

The company were afterwards hospitably entertained by Mr and Mrs Hepburn, jun.”

“New threshing mill at Blairs (Aberdeen press and journal, 22 December 1928)

Mr Charles Shaw, Maidenfold, Blairs, Maryculter, who recently got part of his steading burned including his threshing mill, has installed a new and up-to-date threshing mill, The mill has a 36-inch high speed drum, double dressing fans, sizer, awner, and screen. It is capable of threshing and dealing with both barley and oats, As the grain comes from the mill it is delivered into bags.”

On Wednesday Mr Shaw invited a number of friends and neighbours to see the mill set a-going. It was thoroughly run and tested, and did very fine work. The quantity got per hour was over fifteen quarters. The dressing was all that could be looked for, The corn on being weighed, just touched 46lbs per bushel. The mill was supplied by Alex Milne and Sons, engineers and millwrights, Joppa Lane, Aberdeen.

At the end of the test the company sat down to a sumptuous spread provided by Miss Shaw. Dr Cronin, DD, Rector of Blairs College, and proprietor of Maidenfold, occupied the chair. The chairman and Mr Robert P. Collie of Cowford, thanked Mr Shaw and family for their invitation and hospitality.”

“New threshing mill (Mearns leader, 20 September 1929)

At Corntulloch, on the Glen Tanar estate, tenanted by Mr John Cameron, there has just been installed by Messrs Garvie, Innes and Scott, Aberdeen a high speed threshing mill, driven by a Blackstone petrol engine of 3hp, supplied by Messrs Reid and Leys, Aberdeen. To the inauguration of the new plant, neighbouring farmers and friends were invited, and the demonstration proved eminently satisfactory. The company were hospitably entertained by Mrs Cameron. On the call of Mr Walker, schoolhouse, the healths of Mr and Mrs Cameron and family were duly pledged, the Rev L L L Cameron, Dufftown replying, whilst Mr Duncan, Dee-Castle, gave the toast of the firms which installed the machinery, when their representatives, Messrs Reid and Innes responded with song and story, a happy social hour was spent.”

Adverts for displenishing sales are a useful source of evidence to see what implements and machines were used on particular farms at a specific point in time. They may include implements and machines that had been used for decades as well as newer ones and the latest technologies. They can show the preference of particular farmers for certain makers and makes of machinery as well. They can also be used to show how widespread some implements and machines were, especially if they were more specialised.

By the early 1950s mechanisation was a key word on Scottish farms. The horse era was giving way to the tractor era and on some farms both kinds of power were used, sometimes for specific tasks. With labour shortages both of full-time and seasonal and casual workers, there was a push to start to find more mechanised ways to deal with the handling, harvesting and processing of crops.

The following selection of adverts from the Strathearn herald from 1954 to 1956 show the implements and machines on a small number of farms in 1954. They show widespread mechanisation with up-to-date implements and machines to undertake a wide variety of tasks from ploughing, sowing, cultivation, management, harvesting and processing of crops.

Implements and machines from key makers were noted. They included names such as Sellar of Huntly and Alloa, Newlands of Linlithgow and William Dickie of East Kilbride. English and north-American names were also represented for some of the implements and machines. They included well-known names associated with particular products such as Bamford of Uttoxeter (for mowers) and Massey Harris for corn drills and binders). At some farms there was a preference for particular makers.

The farms were using tractor power through Fordson tractors. There were also a number of new or nearly new implements and machines that were available at the sales.

“Nether Braco, Braco (Mr Thomson) (Strathearn herald, 13 November 1954)

Implements

Standard Fordson tractor (spade lugs), Newlands toolbar, tractor sweep, Massey-Harris binder, Massey-Harris corn drill, Sellar manure barrow, Bamford mower, Dickie swathe turner, horse fork, hay slipe, turnip barrow, potato digger, pair wheels and axle, double-furrow plough; 3 carts (1 R.T.). 2 Dux 96 ploughs, drill plough, drill harrows, drill grubbers, horse harrows, 5-leaf tractor harrows, 3-barrel roller, chain harrows, rig marker, drilling trees, plough trees, turnip slicer, weighing machine and weights, Lister churn, Ceresan mixer, sack barrow, byre barrow, potato riddle, Fordson pulley, 250 gall tank, oil drum, paraffin drums, anvil, 3 henhouses, ladders, 15ft cover, fireclay troughs, corn bin, tin Ceresan, rat proof netting (new), netting, stack props, bull blinders, horse harness, and all the usual barn, byre, stable and dairy utensils.

Several articles of household furniture.”

“Tomperran, Comrie (from Strathearn herald, 18 June 1955)

Implements

Fordson Major diesel tractor, only 3 months old, with hydraulic lift, licensed to end of the year; H. M. mower with power take-off; M.H. 6ft binder; two tractor cultivators for Major Tractor; tool bar with three furrow plough for Major tractor; tractor transport box; tractor tipper trailer; hay bogey R. T. with harvest flaks; coup cart R. T. fitted for tractor; Ransome D. F. plough; set harrows with iron trees and transport; set saddle harrows; hay sweep; turnip sowing machine fitted for tractor; three barrel metal roller fitted for tractor; horse rake for tractor; International grain drill (15 spout); Nicholson manure distributor; Tullos manure distributor (new); Allan potato digger; potato dumper; turnip slicer; grindstone on iron stand; electric paint sprayer; steam boiler and chest; two wheel barrows; six rolls barb wire (new); quantity netting, 2 in x 3ft 6 in; three jerry cans; bang chains; wire strainer; wooden doors; two tractor jacks; three stack ladders’ knife rest; six hen coops (wooden); guddle and mell and a few barn and byre utensils; Railton motor van.

The implements are all in very good order and well worthy the attention of those in quest of such.”

Easterton, Blackford (Mr McEwan) (from Strathearn herald, 17 November 1956)

Implements

1954 Ferguson diesel tractor, 2 Fordson tractors, Ferguson ridger, Sellar D.F. plough. Pierce turnip sower (new), 3 Massey-Harris binders, hay mower, potato digger, 2 corn drills, grass seed sower, set tractor harrows (as new), set discs, 2 cultivators, 2 trailing ploughs, tractor trailer, 2 box carts (1 for tractor), corn cart, corn cart body, 2 rollers, 2 roller barrels (new), saddle harrows, light harrows, hay rake, hay turner, Ogle hay fork, manure sower, barn fanners, chopper, weighing machine (tested), 3 ladders, fire extinguisher, 2 fireclay troughs, quantity harness, 2 corn chests, cattle cage, 7 henhouses, warm floored brooder, 2 sack barrows, shafts and pulleys, binder canvasses, potato baskets, oil drums (250, 120 and 50 galls), bellows, anvil, 2 R.T. barrows, stakes, nets, churn, 2 blow lamps, corn sacks, vice, corrugated iron, circular saw, stack covers, 2 turnip slicers, horse ploughs, drill ploughs, scythes, 40 gall drum diesel oil, belting, incubator; and all the usual barn, byre and stable utensils, etc, Nissen hut 30ft x 16ft (if note previously sold), few articles of household furniture, 5 skeps bees, and equipment.”

By 1905 Wright Brothers of the Boyne Mills, Portsoy, made reapers, drillers and threshing mills. It was their threshing mills, and as a millwright that the company was especially renowned. By the late 1940s the business was undergoing significant changes. In early 1948 steps were being taken to incorporate it to become a company limited by guarantee; the company received its certificate of incorporation to become Wright Brothers (Boyne Mills) Ltd. The company continued in business until 1955. On 7 February the company passed an extraordinary resolution to voluntarily wind up the company. Its final winding up meeting was held on 17 October 1956.

One of the key figures in the business was William Wright. He died in 1902 at the age of sixty years of age. His obituary was recorded in a number of the local Banffshire newspapers. They provide information about his life and the development of his millwrighting work:

“Death of Mr William Wright, Boyne Mills (from Banffshire reporter of 29 January 1902)

After a lingering illness, Mr Wm Wright, millwright, Boyne Mills, near Portsoy, died on Monday at noon, at the age of sixty years. The announcement of Mr Wright’s death will be received with deep regret by many friends over a wide area. Mr Wright, who belonged to Alehouseburn, Ord, learned the trade of a millwright. When only twenty-three years of age he began the construction of mills on his own account. His business soon became very successful. He put into his mills the best that good workmanship could do, and soon they became exceedingly popular with farmers, and are to be found on numerous farms in the counties of Banff and Aberdeen, and the North generally. For twelve years he carried on business at Alehouseburn; for fully twelve years he was at Quarry Croft, Ord; and for the past twelve and a half years he had been at the Boyne Mills. At the Boyne he also engaged in the more general business of a joiner. His last important contract was the joiner work of the new United Free Church at Cullen. He also did the carpenter work of the Hay Memorial Hall, Cornhill, and of several large houses in Banff. Mr Wright, was a member of the East U.F. Church, Portsoy, and took a great interest in evangelistic work. He was held in high esteem. Mr Wright, is survived by his widow and a family of eight, for whom sincere sympathy is felt in their sore bereavement. The funeral takes place on Thursday to Boyndie Churchyard.”

“The late Mr William Wright (from Banffshire recorder, 5 February 1902)

In the East United Free Church, Portsoy, on Sunday forenoon, the Rev Wm Simmers referred to the late Mr William Wright, Boyne Mills. He said-Since last Lord’s day the head of a family connected with this church has been called away from much suffering, patiently and bravely borne, and has been carried home to rest and peace. He had a deathbed of peculiar pain, endured without despondency and without complaint. He had the peace of God which passeth all understanding, keeping his heart and mind, and the presence of Christ enabled him to bear his pain. Wm Wright was all along a man of steady and persevering nature, and from his early years he possessed Christian principles which strengthened him for life’s duty. Possessing skills alike of head and hands, he entered a line of business which called for the exercise of both, and he filled his place in life faithfully to the end. His intelligence gave him places in the School Board and parish Council of his parish, and he acted so as to be useful and respected in both. His heart was in evangelistic work, and he delighted in the gospel of Christ and in the salvation of the lost and perishing. His faith was steadfast to the end. Now his day is over, and his work is done. We regret his loss, and deeply, very deeply, do we sympathise with his widow and sorrowing family, over whom the cloud of sorrow has rested so darkly and so long.”