Two wires received on 17 August and what they mean.
Wire No. 1:-
Manager, Marine Gardens, Portobello. My band will play Marine Gardens next week. Am waiting cabled consent of my Government. Eichard Rune, bandmaster 25th Royal Swedish Infantry.
This means that next week at the Edinburgh Marine Park and Zoological Gardens you will be able to hear the famous Swedish Military Band which has charmed and enthused the visitors to the Glasgow Exhibition during the past week or so.
Here is wire No. 2:-
Manager, Marine Gardens, Portobello. Will positively attempt flight Kirkcaldy to Gardens on Saturday, weather permitting. W.H. Ewen, certificated pilot. Royal Aero Club.
This means that Mr. Ewen’s aeroplane will fly over Portobello and alight in the Sports Ground on Saturday afternoon, barring accidents. If Mr. Ewen accomplishes the flight he will be presented with a silver trophy cup by the management and will give a week’s flying exhibitions, commencing Monday next.
The Marine Gardens
Following his coronation, it was decided that King George V would then travel to India where, in the course of a Durbar in Bombay he would be crowned Emperor of India.
Almost out of the blue, it was announced on 23 August that the person who had been selected to take on the task of organising this huge and prestigious event was none other than Thomas Henry Eslick, the manager of the Marine Park and Zoological Gardens, Portobello.
Eslick was immediately released from his contract by the Directors of the Gardens, left Edinburgh for London the same day and sailed for Bombay the following week.
Apart from his loss to the Gardens, there was the loss of his witty and idiosyncratic adverts in the pages of the Scotsman.
Almost out of the blue, it was announced on 23 August that the person who had been selected to take on the task of organising this huge and prestigious event was none other than Thomas Henry Eslick, the manager of the Marine Park and Zoological Gardens, Portobello.
Eslick was immediately released from his contract by the Directors of the Gardens, left Edinburgh for London the same day and sailed for Bombay the following week.
Apart from his loss to the Gardens, there was the loss of his witty and idiosyncratic adverts in the pages of the Scotsman.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The first annual sports of Edinburgh Police were held on 26 August in the sports ground. Bailie Macfarlane, ex Bailie Inches and Mr. R.K. Kinninmont were judges of the racing events. Mrs. Ross, wife of the Chief Constable, presented the prizes. The programme was long and varied and included items for juveniles. Music was supplied by the police Pipe Band.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Throughout August, if you weren’t watching the amateur Gymnastic and Wrestling in the sports park, for threepence you could view Mr. W.H. Ewen’s monoplane.
A little before darkness set in on the evening of 30 August Ewen, who was associated with the flying school at Lanark and who was the only Scotsman to hold an aviator’s certificate, took off for Burntisland.
Ewen was present at the Marine Gardens for the purpose of giving exhibition flights. The weather that week had not been propitious owing to strong and uncertain winds but on the 30th, the wind apparently died down to some extent and he determined to attempt to fly over the Forth.
The attempt met with complete success.
A few minutes before seven o’clock the aviator, wearing a suit of black oilskins, climbed into the seat of his graceful Superdussin machine. The engine started and before a comparatively small crowd of spectators, the monoplane made a short run across the sports ground, rose into the air, cleared the boundary fence at the seaward end and in a few seconds was in full flight.
As it left the precincts of the Gardens, the monoplane had a remarkably graceful appearance in the air and naturally excited the admiration of the spectators, the majority of whom had not previously seen an aeroplane in flight.
No sooner was Mr. Ewen over the waters of the Forth than he became aware of the fact that the wind was of a trying character. He steered the aeroplane upwards until he reached a height of 1000 feet in the hope of getting into a steadier atmospheric region. The wind at that altitude, however, was found to be still tricky and necessitated dextrous steering.
The aviator headed for the Fifeshire coast and flying at a great velocity, his speed being helped by the wind, he was soon approaching Inchkeith. He passed the island to the east and continued till within about a mile of Kinghorn. After passing Inchkeith the wind difficulties suddenly ceased and the aviator found himself almost in a dead calm. So free from currents was a the atmosphere that he scarcely had to use the steering wheel at all.
Opposite Kinghorn the aviator turned and steered across the Firth again towards Leith. About the middle of the Firth he left the calm belt and once more found himself in the midst of variable and dangerous currents of air. He afterwards stated that on this part of the return journey he had a bad five minutes. The machine rocked considerably and also dipped longitudinally in a most disconcerting manner.
Mr. Ewen then kept along the south shore of the Firth until he picked up the Marine Gardens. He had maintained his height of 1000 feet and on approaching the Gardens began to descend with a view to alighting at the point of departure. In the restricted area of the sports ground this was a matter of considerable difficulty under the most favourable conditions. The aviator made a well judged attempt to descend but just as he was on the point of alighting a gust of wind heeled his machine over. To avoid any damage being caused to the monoplane, as would have been inevitable if it had taken the ground at an angle, he again rose, clearing the heads of the spectators and making a short flight beyond the grounds over the level field to the west. Here it made a completely successful descent.
On the arrival of his assistants, darkness was beginning to set in and Mr. Ewen had the main planes of his machine taken off. The aeroplane was then wheeled along the road to the Gardens. Mr. Ewen stated that the flight had been satisfactory in every respect. He had been able to observe his location at every point and during his passage over the Firth he flew above a number of steamers which he could clearly discern below him.
The news of the flight attracted large crowds to the Marine Gardens in the evening and on his arrival he had an enthusiastic reception. The pierrot troupe escorted him round the principal square where he was received with musical honours by the band. Afterwards he proceeded to the Marine Club where he was received by some of the directors of the Gardens. Councillor Rawson, speaking from the front of the club, congratulated the young aviator on his highly creditable performance. Cries were raised by the crowd for a speech from the aviator and Mr. Ewen in a few words expressed his gratification at the manner in which his flight had been received and his satisfaction that a Scotsman had been able to do something in the way of mechanical flight.
A little before darkness set in on the evening of 30 August Ewen, who was associated with the flying school at Lanark and who was the only Scotsman to hold an aviator’s certificate, took off for Burntisland.
Ewen was present at the Marine Gardens for the purpose of giving exhibition flights. The weather that week had not been propitious owing to strong and uncertain winds but on the 30th, the wind apparently died down to some extent and he determined to attempt to fly over the Forth.
The attempt met with complete success.
A few minutes before seven o’clock the aviator, wearing a suit of black oilskins, climbed into the seat of his graceful Superdussin machine. The engine started and before a comparatively small crowd of spectators, the monoplane made a short run across the sports ground, rose into the air, cleared the boundary fence at the seaward end and in a few seconds was in full flight.
As it left the precincts of the Gardens, the monoplane had a remarkably graceful appearance in the air and naturally excited the admiration of the spectators, the majority of whom had not previously seen an aeroplane in flight.
No sooner was Mr. Ewen over the waters of the Forth than he became aware of the fact that the wind was of a trying character. He steered the aeroplane upwards until he reached a height of 1000 feet in the hope of getting into a steadier atmospheric region. The wind at that altitude, however, was found to be still tricky and necessitated dextrous steering.
The aviator headed for the Fifeshire coast and flying at a great velocity, his speed being helped by the wind, he was soon approaching Inchkeith. He passed the island to the east and continued till within about a mile of Kinghorn. After passing Inchkeith the wind difficulties suddenly ceased and the aviator found himself almost in a dead calm. So free from currents was a the atmosphere that he scarcely had to use the steering wheel at all.
Opposite Kinghorn the aviator turned and steered across the Firth again towards Leith. About the middle of the Firth he left the calm belt and once more found himself in the midst of variable and dangerous currents of air. He afterwards stated that on this part of the return journey he had a bad five minutes. The machine rocked considerably and also dipped longitudinally in a most disconcerting manner.
Mr. Ewen then kept along the south shore of the Firth until he picked up the Marine Gardens. He had maintained his height of 1000 feet and on approaching the Gardens began to descend with a view to alighting at the point of departure. In the restricted area of the sports ground this was a matter of considerable difficulty under the most favourable conditions. The aviator made a well judged attempt to descend but just as he was on the point of alighting a gust of wind heeled his machine over. To avoid any damage being caused to the monoplane, as would have been inevitable if it had taken the ground at an angle, he again rose, clearing the heads of the spectators and making a short flight beyond the grounds over the level field to the west. Here it made a completely successful descent.
On the arrival of his assistants, darkness was beginning to set in and Mr. Ewen had the main planes of his machine taken off. The aeroplane was then wheeled along the road to the Gardens. Mr. Ewen stated that the flight had been satisfactory in every respect. He had been able to observe his location at every point and during his passage over the Firth he flew above a number of steamers which he could clearly discern below him.
The news of the flight attracted large crowds to the Marine Gardens in the evening and on his arrival he had an enthusiastic reception. The pierrot troupe escorted him round the principal square where he was received with musical honours by the band. Afterwards he proceeded to the Marine Club where he was received by some of the directors of the Gardens. Councillor Rawson, speaking from the front of the club, congratulated the young aviator on his highly creditable performance. Cries were raised by the crowd for a speech from the aviator and Mr. Ewen in a few words expressed his gratification at the manner in which his flight had been received and his satisfaction that a Scotsman had been able to do something in the way of mechanical flight.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The flight led to a series of displays by Ewen. The monoplane was kept on display in the gardens and on 1st September there was a military display in the sports ground, which included a naval duel between dreadnoughts and an aerial bombardment which concluded with a grand firework display. For the event the gardens were illuminated with 20,000 fairy lights.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
On 2 September a silver bowl, with commemorative inscription, was presented to W.H. Ewen.
The presentation, which was the gift of the directors of the Edinburgh Marine Gardens Limited, in recognition of his flight across the Firth of Forth from the Gardens, was made in the Concert Hall in presence of a large audience.
Mr. George B. Smith, manager, presided and having recalled the fact of the successful flight across the Firth and back said Mr. Ewen had done this without making any fuss or show. Councillor Brydon Hogg, a director of the Gardens Company, made the presentation and in doing so recalled the fact that two years ago an aviator at the Marine Gardens had failed to fly the Firth, though a very large sum of money had been offered as a prize on that occasion. The management unfortunately could not offer Mr. Ewen a prize in money, for he was an amateur sportsman who flew for the pleasure of it. The crossing of the Firth of Forth demonstrated not only the peaceful pleasure and sport of aviation, but also that these machines could be put to other uses. The Government would be fully justified in spending larger sums of money to foster aviation than they were doing.
When the aviator received the trophy the orchestra played Scotland the Brave.
Mr Ewen, after returning thanks for the gift, said he did not want people to think he had done anything dangerous or that he was very brave, because in two or three years after this everyone would have flown, if not by themselves, then as passengers. Flying was the safest means of travel he had yet come across, if one had the common sense to know when to stop.
The presentation, which was the gift of the directors of the Edinburgh Marine Gardens Limited, in recognition of his flight across the Firth of Forth from the Gardens, was made in the Concert Hall in presence of a large audience.
Mr. George B. Smith, manager, presided and having recalled the fact of the successful flight across the Firth and back said Mr. Ewen had done this without making any fuss or show. Councillor Brydon Hogg, a director of the Gardens Company, made the presentation and in doing so recalled the fact that two years ago an aviator at the Marine Gardens had failed to fly the Firth, though a very large sum of money had been offered as a prize on that occasion. The management unfortunately could not offer Mr. Ewen a prize in money, for he was an amateur sportsman who flew for the pleasure of it. The crossing of the Firth of Forth demonstrated not only the peaceful pleasure and sport of aviation, but also that these machines could be put to other uses. The Government would be fully justified in spending larger sums of money to foster aviation than they were doing.
When the aviator received the trophy the orchestra played Scotland the Brave.
Mr Ewen, after returning thanks for the gift, said he did not want people to think he had done anything dangerous or that he was very brave, because in two or three years after this everyone would have flown, if not by themselves, then as passengers. Flying was the safest means of travel he had yet come across, if one had the common sense to know when to stop.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
3 September saw a programme of gymnastic and other events, including the decision of the Scottish Championship for Indian Club Swinging. The meeting was under the auspices of the Scottish Amateur Boxing, Gymnastic and Wrestling Association. Members of the Leith Gymnasium, Causewayside Institute, Dalkeith Working Lad’s Institute, Leith Walk Evening School and Causewayside Lad’s Institute gave exhibitions of various drills and gymnastic exercises.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
You will be a long time dead and we have only four weeks more in which to make you feel really good. So get on a Joppa car for Portobello and all you need to keep you going the whole day is two shillings and six pence and this includes a drink! Just think - 2 tram rides and admission to the lovely Marine Gardens. A walk round the zoo and a look at our new baby, Frank, and all the other lot. A stroll round the Carnival hall. Then a wee nip. Then the Merry Makers. Then a beautifully served luncheon for 1s for 3 courses. Then buy a 1s book of coupons which gives you 2s worth of fun for 1s. Then the charming Marine theatre. Then a nice stroll round the Band of the 3rd Dragoons, with the fresh air blowing in your face. Then into the Japanese cafe and have your tea. By this time you will feel good. Now use your coupons and have the time of your life. When on the Scenic Railway you feel like yelling. Well, yell. We don’t charge a cent more for it. It’s yours for the ticket. Then get on the Great Joy Wheel and yell again. By this time your jaws will ache, so get into the Electric Theatre and sit still for a bit. It’s comic, amusing and educational. Now visit the Enchanted Castle and have another scream. By this time you will feel like kissing the Directors and the Manager. Finish up with a dance and take the last car home, but be sure you get it. You will be tired but happy. The Manager.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The Concert Hall in the Marine Gardens began to be used as a venue for political meetings. Typical was that held on 6 September 1911 under the auspices of the National Amalgamated Union of Shop Assistants, Warehousemen and Clerks to consider the Shop Hours Bill.
Bailie Laing presided and said that the particular question to be discussed was the exclusion of managers from the scope of the Bill. He believed the Bill would affect many for good, but he would have liked to have seen something more heroic, which would bring about a larger measure of benefit to those who were engaged in shops. Those like himself who were interested in reducing shop hours had long ago come to the conclusion that voluntary effort was absolutely hopeless.
Mr. Alexander Lindsay, shop assistant, Leith moved that the meeting, whilst appreciating the action of the Government in introducing the Shop Hours Bill, most emphatically protest against the exclusion of shop managers, depriving as it did, thousands of employees from the benefits of the measure. They should urge upon the Government to bring within the scope of the Bill all workers employed in shop life and give facilities for the speedy passage of that long looked for measure.
Mr. William Hardie, president of Edinburgh Trades Council seconded. Councillor Rose, Edinburgh and Councillor Edgar, Leith, spoke in support of the resolution. The resolution was unanimously adopted and the chairman thanked for his services.
Bailie Laing presided and said that the particular question to be discussed was the exclusion of managers from the scope of the Bill. He believed the Bill would affect many for good, but he would have liked to have seen something more heroic, which would bring about a larger measure of benefit to those who were engaged in shops. Those like himself who were interested in reducing shop hours had long ago come to the conclusion that voluntary effort was absolutely hopeless.
Mr. Alexander Lindsay, shop assistant, Leith moved that the meeting, whilst appreciating the action of the Government in introducing the Shop Hours Bill, most emphatically protest against the exclusion of shop managers, depriving as it did, thousands of employees from the benefits of the measure. They should urge upon the Government to bring within the scope of the Bill all workers employed in shop life and give facilities for the speedy passage of that long looked for measure.
Mr. William Hardie, president of Edinburgh Trades Council seconded. Councillor Rose, Edinburgh and Councillor Edgar, Leith, spoke in support of the resolution. The resolution was unanimously adopted and the chairman thanked for his services.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The Ballroom was also used for wrestling matches.
On 11 September Pat Connolly, the champion wrestler of Great Britain offered to give £10 to any man whom he failed to throw in fifteen minutes and there was special interest attached to the offer in view of the fact that he was to leave for America at the end of the month to arrange a match with Gotch, the world champion.
The opposition was furnished by Peter Bannon, Bolton, who in a catch as catch can encounter resisted for 6 mins 40 secs before Connolly secured a victory.
On 11 September Pat Connolly, the champion wrestler of Great Britain offered to give £10 to any man whom he failed to throw in fifteen minutes and there was special interest attached to the offer in view of the fact that he was to leave for America at the end of the month to arrange a match with Gotch, the world champion.
The opposition was furnished by Peter Bannon, Bolton, who in a catch as catch can encounter resisted for 6 mins 40 secs before Connolly secured a victory.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
A curious road accident happened in Portobello on 11 September 1911.
A horse attached to a lorry loaded with barrels of beer, the property of a firm of Craigmillar brewers, was proceeding towards Leith when near the principal entrance to Edinburgh Marine Park it took fright at a camel belonging to the zoo.
Turning round sharply before rushing off towards Portobello, the horse jerked the lorry so violently that George Munro, malt man residing at 2 Braid Place, was thrown off and before he could clear he was struck by a heavy barrel of beer which had also been pitched from the lorry.
Munro, happily, escaped the full force of the stroke but, as it was, injuries to his head and an ankle necessitated attention at Portobello police station and is removal to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
A horse attached to a lorry loaded with barrels of beer, the property of a firm of Craigmillar brewers, was proceeding towards Leith when near the principal entrance to Edinburgh Marine Park it took fright at a camel belonging to the zoo.
Turning round sharply before rushing off towards Portobello, the horse jerked the lorry so violently that George Munro, malt man residing at 2 Braid Place, was thrown off and before he could clear he was struck by a heavy barrel of beer which had also been pitched from the lorry.
Munro, happily, escaped the full force of the stroke but, as it was, injuries to his head and an ankle necessitated attention at Portobello police station and is removal to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The animals caused further problems on 13 September.
While Captain Sadler was feeding a polar bear, an animal which has been recently added to the zoological garden collection, it suddenly attacked him and made its escape from the cage.
There were many visitors about the grounds at the time and a degree of panic was created among those who were in the vicinity.
Fortunately several of the keepers were at hand and after a quarter of an hour’s effort the animal was captured by means of a lasso by Captain Sadler who, in the interests of public safety, had meantime fired at the bear three or four times.
Though the incident gave rise to considerable alarm no-one, happily, was injured. The animal was conveyed back to its cage.
While Captain Sadler was feeding a polar bear, an animal which has been recently added to the zoological garden collection, it suddenly attacked him and made its escape from the cage.
There were many visitors about the grounds at the time and a degree of panic was created among those who were in the vicinity.
Fortunately several of the keepers were at hand and after a quarter of an hour’s effort the animal was captured by means of a lasso by Captain Sadler who, in the interests of public safety, had meantime fired at the bear three or four times.
Though the incident gave rise to considerable alarm no-one, happily, was injured. The animal was conveyed back to its cage.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
On 18 September Pat Connolly, the British wrestling champion was back again.
This time he defeated four Edinburgh district opponents on the stage of the Concert Hall in 16 mins. 52 secs.
The style was catch as catch can. He had offered £10 to any man whom he failed to throw in fifteen minutes or £10 to each of six opponents if they were not all thrown in an hour’s wrestling time.
He beat D. Gillespie, Edinburgh in 45 secs, Thomas Trotter, Leith police in 2 mins 2 secs, Thomas Brown Edinburgh in 5 mins 50 secs and Alex Anderson, Edinburgh in 8 mins 15 secs.
This time he defeated four Edinburgh district opponents on the stage of the Concert Hall in 16 mins. 52 secs.
The style was catch as catch can. He had offered £10 to any man whom he failed to throw in fifteen minutes or £10 to each of six opponents if they were not all thrown in an hour’s wrestling time.
He beat D. Gillespie, Edinburgh in 45 secs, Thomas Trotter, Leith police in 2 mins 2 secs, Thomas Brown Edinburgh in 5 mins 50 secs and Alex Anderson, Edinburgh in 8 mins 15 secs.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Also on 18 September there was an accident at the Marine Park. George Henderson, a rubber tyre maker, residing at 18 Viewforth Edinburgh, had his right leg broken below the knee while on the Joy Wheel. He was removed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary in the police ambulance.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
25 September saw the Highland gathering at Edinburgh Marine Park. A well contested programme of nineteen events was carried through in the sports ground during the afternoon. There was a large attendance of the public. A number of well known Scottish athletes were among the competitors.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Mrs. Charles Cormack, Seafield House, Portobello, entered two cages at Edinburgh Marine Park zoo on 27 Septmberand and named three young bears, one a Polar and two of the Russian brown variety. She was accompanied by Captain Sadler, the lion tamer at the zoo, Mrs. Wilkins, wife of the advertising manager, and several gentlemen connected with the management.
The prize winners in the dancing competition, at which the test was the Marine Four Step, a new dance, were:
1. Miss Jessie Watson and Mr. Alexander Short,
2 Miss Pearl Wilson and Mr. J. Podon,
3 Miss Nessie Wilson and Mr. P.G. Campbell.
The prize winners in the dancing competition, at which the test was the Marine Four Step, a new dance, were:
1. Miss Jessie Watson and Mr. Alexander Short,
2 Miss Pearl Wilson and Mr. J. Podon,
3 Miss Nessie Wilson and Mr. P.G. Campbell.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The Edinburgh Marine Park and Zoological Gardens 1911 season ended on 30 September.
Since the reopening excellent weather had prevailed and with numerous improvements and additional attractions and up to date amusements, the attendances were large.
Despite one or two heavy showers of rain and a chilly atmosphere, the concluding day was no exception, the number of persons passing through the turnstiles being probably a record one.
The band of H.M. 19th Royal Hussars gave selections of music in the band court in the afternoon and evening and on each occasion had huge audiences.
The zoo had many visitors, old and young and Fanning’s Marionettes, described as a real treat for children of all ages, were well patronised.
The Merry Makers provided capital entertainment in the open air theatre in the afternoon and later in the Exhibition hall, while other vaudeville entertainers occupied the Marine theatre boards.
The sensation providing amusements, particularly the scenic railway, the American circle flying machine and the joy wheel were enjoyed by large numbers throughout the evening, there being large queues of people waiting their turn.
The ballroom venture had been one of the most striking successes of the season and on the last evening the Empress Hall was thronged. The spacious floor had a full complement of dancers and dancing continued until a late hour.
A fireworks display in the sports ground, which must have given pleasure to many outside as well as inside the grounds, was another strong attraction in the evening.
The entertainment provided and the huge attendance on the closing day was a fitting wind up for what had been a successful season for promoters as well as patrons.
Since the reopening excellent weather had prevailed and with numerous improvements and additional attractions and up to date amusements, the attendances were large.
Despite one or two heavy showers of rain and a chilly atmosphere, the concluding day was no exception, the number of persons passing through the turnstiles being probably a record one.
The band of H.M. 19th Royal Hussars gave selections of music in the band court in the afternoon and evening and on each occasion had huge audiences.
The zoo had many visitors, old and young and Fanning’s Marionettes, described as a real treat for children of all ages, were well patronised.
The Merry Makers provided capital entertainment in the open air theatre in the afternoon and later in the Exhibition hall, while other vaudeville entertainers occupied the Marine theatre boards.
The sensation providing amusements, particularly the scenic railway, the American circle flying machine and the joy wheel were enjoyed by large numbers throughout the evening, there being large queues of people waiting their turn.
The ballroom venture had been one of the most striking successes of the season and on the last evening the Empress Hall was thronged. The spacious floor had a full complement of dancers and dancing continued until a late hour.
A fireworks display in the sports ground, which must have given pleasure to many outside as well as inside the grounds, was another strong attraction in the evening.
The entertainment provided and the huge attendance on the closing day was a fitting wind up for what had been a successful season for promoters as well as patrons.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
At the end of January 1912 an amateur company, the Brunstane Dramatic Club, presented two pieces before a fairly large audience in the Marine Gardens theatre. In the curtain raiser, an original comedietta, the joint authors, Mr. Eric Lyall and Miss Ella S. Boswell appeared. The farce by Sydney Grundy, The Arabian Nights, followed.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Over the years the members of Mr. H. Douglas Archer’s Portobello Opera Company achieved a large measure of success, which was continued in their 1912 production, the Egyptian comic opera Amasis.
It was staged on 17 April in the theatre of the Marine Gardens, before a large and appreciative audience.
The title role, Princess Amasis, was successfully taken by Miss May Scott Hastie and the other leading parts were capably filled. Egyptian dances were given by Miss Marie Hamilton. Mr. Douglas Archer conducted.
It was staged on 17 April in the theatre of the Marine Gardens, before a large and appreciative audience.
The title role, Princess Amasis, was successfully taken by Miss May Scott Hastie and the other leading parts were capably filled. Egyptian dances were given by Miss Marie Hamilton. Mr. Douglas Archer conducted.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The annual general meeting of the Marine Club was held on 12 May in the club premises. Mr. John Melrose, the retiring chairman presided. It was reported that the balance in hand amounted to £2 9s 5d. The rent paid, it appeared, amounted to £121 and a question was asked as to whether there was a stated rent. The Chairman said that there was a maximum rent of £150 and the club paid the company what it could afford, the amount being under that maximum. The statement of accounts was approved and it was agreed by a majority to raise the annual subscription for members from five shillings to seven shillings and six pence. In the course of the discussion the Chairman said there were too many members last year. Owing to the number of members and the number of friends they brought the Club was a little rowdy. The charge of an extra half crown, he thought, would bring a certain amount of exclusiveness. They would derive the same revenue and the members would have more room in the premises. He had been afraid they would get into trouble with the licensing authorities last year because of the number of people who swarmed to the Club. Mr. W.H. Brodie, banker, Portobello, was elected chairman and a committee was appointed. The question of the hour of closing the bar was remitted to the committee.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The Gardens opened for the new season on 18 May 1912.
As the advertisements said: Never was sixpence endowed with such magic power. It admited you to Edinburgh’s beautiful white city, a wonderland of pleasure palaces by the sea, glad with the sound of music and of merriment. The Marine Park became the fashionable resort of the world and his wife and his sisters and his cousins and his aunts.
The featuresd band on the opening day was that of the Royal Scots Greys (by kind permission of Lieut. Col. C.B. Bulkeley Johnson and Officer) In the Marine theatre at 3 and 7.30 was Mr. Robert Burnett, the Scottish baritone and the Glasgow Orpheus Choir of 50 voices, conductor Mr. Hugh S. Robertson. During the week there was Mr. Hebden Foster (Carl Rosa Opera Co.) together with Fred Rome and party in humorous sketch, the celebrated Cremona Ladies’ orchestra and the return of The Merry Makers, Portobello’s favourite pierrots.
The Grand zoological collection re-opened, as did the Empress ballroom with dancing from 7.30 to 10.30
The Amusement court was complete with Camera obscura, Hall of laughter, Scenic railway, The aeroplanes, Figure eight railway, Great Joy wheel, Mountain slide, Enchanted castle and Parker’s shooting range.
As the advertisements said: Never was sixpence endowed with such magic power. It admited you to Edinburgh’s beautiful white city, a wonderland of pleasure palaces by the sea, glad with the sound of music and of merriment. The Marine Park became the fashionable resort of the world and his wife and his sisters and his cousins and his aunts.
The featuresd band on the opening day was that of the Royal Scots Greys (by kind permission of Lieut. Col. C.B. Bulkeley Johnson and Officer) In the Marine theatre at 3 and 7.30 was Mr. Robert Burnett, the Scottish baritone and the Glasgow Orpheus Choir of 50 voices, conductor Mr. Hugh S. Robertson. During the week there was Mr. Hebden Foster (Carl Rosa Opera Co.) together with Fred Rome and party in humorous sketch, the celebrated Cremona Ladies’ orchestra and the return of The Merry Makers, Portobello’s favourite pierrots.
The Grand zoological collection re-opened, as did the Empress ballroom with dancing from 7.30 to 10.30
The Amusement court was complete with Camera obscura, Hall of laughter, Scenic railway, The aeroplanes, Figure eight railway, Great Joy wheel, Mountain slide, Enchanted castle and Parker’s shooting range.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Among the improvements to the Gardens for the 1912 season was the installation in a corner of the grounds of a large tank for the storage of sea water, which when sprinkled on the foot walks gave, by the action of the salt, a firm and practically dustless surface to the pathways. This was in response to public complaints about the dust during the previous year.
The track in the sports ground was in greatly improved order. Evening athletic meetings, as well as Saturday functions had been organised and football matches, five a side tournaments and band contests were on the list.
Mr. Ewen, the well known Scottish aviator, who flew across the Forth the year before and had since accomplished the Channel flight would be giving flying exhibitions, with and without passengers, for a week in July.
The directors made special efforts to provide facilities for excursion parties from various parts of Scotland and the north of England and to meet the new half-holiday arrangements for the shopkeepers.
The track in the sports ground was in greatly improved order. Evening athletic meetings, as well as Saturday functions had been organised and football matches, five a side tournaments and band contests were on the list.
Mr. Ewen, the well known Scottish aviator, who flew across the Forth the year before and had since accomplished the Channel flight would be giving flying exhibitions, with and without passengers, for a week in July.
The directors made special efforts to provide facilities for excursion parties from various parts of Scotland and the north of England and to meet the new half-holiday arrangements for the shopkeepers.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
In the Marine Gardens on 19 May 1912 the first of a series of four Sunday services in aid of the funds of the Royal Lifeboat Institution was held.
The service, which consisted of a programme of instrumental and vocal music and an address by the Rev. L. Maclean Watt, St. Stephen’s Church, was attended by about 4,000 persons.
The first part of the programme was carried through in the Band Court, but rain fell heavily and the programme was completed in the concert hall. The band of the Royal Scots Greys played selections, including Schumann’s March Heroique, Faust, Il Trovatore and a suite by Sodermann. A cornet solo The Better Land was contributed by Musician Watson and Mr. Hebden Foster of the Carl Rosa Opera Company rendered the aria It Is Enough from Elijah and O Star of Eve from Tannhauser. Bailie Chesser presided at the service.
In the course of his address, Mr. Maclean Watt spoke of the heroic and valuable work of the Lifeboat Institution and commended it to the generous support of the public. Mr. Campbell Gibson, chairman of the local branch of the Institution, thanked the directors of the Marine Gardens for the arrangements they made in connection with the service.
The service, which consisted of a programme of instrumental and vocal music and an address by the Rev. L. Maclean Watt, St. Stephen’s Church, was attended by about 4,000 persons.
The first part of the programme was carried through in the Band Court, but rain fell heavily and the programme was completed in the concert hall. The band of the Royal Scots Greys played selections, including Schumann’s March Heroique, Faust, Il Trovatore and a suite by Sodermann. A cornet solo The Better Land was contributed by Musician Watson and Mr. Hebden Foster of the Carl Rosa Opera Company rendered the aria It Is Enough from Elijah and O Star of Eve from Tannhauser. Bailie Chesser presided at the service.
In the course of his address, Mr. Maclean Watt spoke of the heroic and valuable work of the Lifeboat Institution and commended it to the generous support of the public. Mr. Campbell Gibson, chairman of the local branch of the Institution, thanked the directors of the Marine Gardens for the arrangements they made in connection with the service.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Highlight of the June programme was Mr. Victor Newman, character actor, who kept the programme at an entertaining level. Mr. Oldham’s mellow voice was heard to advantage in The MacGregor’s Gathering and Yes, Let Me Like A Soldier Fall and he had to respond to an encore. He also presented character studies from Dickens and Shakespeare giving convincing studies of Uriah Heep from David Copperfield, Shakespeare’s Shylock, Svengali from Trilby and closing with an original creation, Peter the Miser. The turn was very popular.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
16 June saw the start of regular ‘Sacred” concerts in support of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. These took place on Sunday evenings, from 7 to 9 p.m. An address was given by the Rev. C.M. Black, Christ Church and Sacred music was performed by the band of H.M. 87th Royal Irish Fusiliers with solos by Mr. Gordon Brown. Admission was sixpence. (If the weather proved unfavourable, the service was held in the theatre)
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Sporting events were organised for every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the 1912 season.
These included:-
Edinburgh Territorial Force athletic sports (19th June).
National Territorial Championships (29th June)
St Bernards sports.
Railway sports.
Northern Harriers.
Highland Games.
Five a side competitions.
Hockey matches.
Brass Band contest (September)
Military Tournament.
Aviation week
and Motor Boat race
These included:-
Edinburgh Territorial Force athletic sports (19th June).
National Territorial Championships (29th June)
St Bernards sports.
Railway sports.
Northern Harriers.
Highland Games.
Five a side competitions.
Hockey matches.
Brass Band contest (September)
Military Tournament.
Aviation week
and Motor Boat race
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Two races were decided under the auspices of Edinburgh Marine Gardens directorate on 22 June. These were a motor boat race and a yacht race.
Both were over the same course, a triangular one of about seven knots (once round)
For the yacht race there was an entry of 37 and of these 29 crossed the line. There were ten entrants for the motor boat contest.
The course was laid eastward to a mark boat lying off Fisherrow harbour, thence north west to a mark off Leith and so home to the Commodore anchored opposite the Gardens bandstand.
Unfortunately for the sport the westerly breeze of the morning died away and about an hour before the start there was almost a calm.
The arrangements were in the hands of the Almond Yacht club.
Both were over the same course, a triangular one of about seven knots (once round)
For the yacht race there was an entry of 37 and of these 29 crossed the line. There were ten entrants for the motor boat contest.
The course was laid eastward to a mark boat lying off Fisherrow harbour, thence north west to a mark off Leith and so home to the Commodore anchored opposite the Gardens bandstand.
Unfortunately for the sport the westerly breeze of the morning died away and about an hour before the start there was almost a calm.
The arrangements were in the hands of the Almond Yacht club.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The third annual national sports meeting in connection with the Territorial Force was held at the sports ground of the Marine Gardens on 29 June.
It was the first time the event was held out of London and though the weather conditions were unsettled and rain fell heavily at intervals, there were about 5,000 spectators.
London, with 33 points, won the grand aggregate cup. Edinburgh was runners up with 19 points and Essex third with 14.
It was the first time the event was held out of London and though the weather conditions were unsettled and rain fell heavily at intervals, there were about 5,000 spectators.
London, with 33 points, won the grand aggregate cup. Edinburgh was runners up with 19 points and Essex third with 14.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The end of July saw Aviation Week at the Gardens.
Pride of place went to M. Rene Caudron, a French manufacturer of aeroplanes. M. Caudron had been brought over specially from France. A feature of the Caudron machine was the flexibility of the after part of the planes, both main and tail. This was produced by allowing an extensive free edge behind the after most line of supporting wooden rods. It was the only hydro-aeroplane which carried floats and wheels. The brothers Caudron made their first attempts at aviation on a type of glider pulled by a couple of horses.
An exhibition of flying was given by M. Rene Caudron on the Caudron biplane at the He set off from the seashore outside the Gardens and though the hour was rather early, many hundreds enjoyed viewing his flights.
The principal performance was that which he accomplished last. This was an eastward flight, forty feet up, to near the Pier, a swing out left handed over a stretch of the waters of the Firth of Forth and a dash home to land inside the Marine Gardens sports enclosure, within fifty paces of the hangar. This flight was over a mile and a half, with a maximum altitude of about 120 feet. The aviator took the most difficult line into the grounds, namely from the east over the various erections in the amusement court such as the figure eight railway, but he soared well above these and, with fine skill and judgement, landed easily in the centre of the football pitch, soon coming to a stand still.
It had been his intention to leave at once for France, but he consented to remain on to give an evening flight before the public, the weather permitting. For fourteen minutes M. Caudron soared over land and sea in the vicinity of the Marine Gardens in the evening and in that time covered about eleven miles at a highest altitude of over 650 ft. By warming up his motor before starting, he was able, aided by a head wind, to start from the sports ground of the Gardens and it was there that he made his landing after a double turn by Leith and Portobello Pier. At one point he was about three quarters of a mile out over the Firth. The performance gave pleasure to many thousands of people. Introduced by ex Councillor Currie, Councillor Crawford presented M. Caudron with a money gift. The aviator knows only the French language and his thanks were returned by Mr. A. Ramsay.
It was announced that M. Caudron chief mechanic P. Marty was on the way from France to Scotland to continue the flying exhibitions at the Gardens.
Pride of place went to M. Rene Caudron, a French manufacturer of aeroplanes. M. Caudron had been brought over specially from France. A feature of the Caudron machine was the flexibility of the after part of the planes, both main and tail. This was produced by allowing an extensive free edge behind the after most line of supporting wooden rods. It was the only hydro-aeroplane which carried floats and wheels. The brothers Caudron made their first attempts at aviation on a type of glider pulled by a couple of horses.
An exhibition of flying was given by M. Rene Caudron on the Caudron biplane at the He set off from the seashore outside the Gardens and though the hour was rather early, many hundreds enjoyed viewing his flights.
The principal performance was that which he accomplished last. This was an eastward flight, forty feet up, to near the Pier, a swing out left handed over a stretch of the waters of the Firth of Forth and a dash home to land inside the Marine Gardens sports enclosure, within fifty paces of the hangar. This flight was over a mile and a half, with a maximum altitude of about 120 feet. The aviator took the most difficult line into the grounds, namely from the east over the various erections in the amusement court such as the figure eight railway, but he soared well above these and, with fine skill and judgement, landed easily in the centre of the football pitch, soon coming to a stand still.
It had been his intention to leave at once for France, but he consented to remain on to give an evening flight before the public, the weather permitting. For fourteen minutes M. Caudron soared over land and sea in the vicinity of the Marine Gardens in the evening and in that time covered about eleven miles at a highest altitude of over 650 ft. By warming up his motor before starting, he was able, aided by a head wind, to start from the sports ground of the Gardens and it was there that he made his landing after a double turn by Leith and Portobello Pier. At one point he was about three quarters of a mile out over the Firth. The performance gave pleasure to many thousands of people. Introduced by ex Councillor Currie, Councillor Crawford presented M. Caudron with a money gift. The aviator knows only the French language and his thanks were returned by Mr. A. Ramsay.
It was announced that M. Caudron chief mechanic P. Marty was on the way from France to Scotland to continue the flying exhibitions at the Gardens.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Caudron’s assistant M.P. Marty arrived on 3 August. On that morning and early in the afternoon he made a test of the Caudron bi plane he was to use for daily flights at the Marine Gardens during the week. Two flights were engaged in. A start was made both times on the sea front, close to the Gardens and in all about eleven miles were covered in circles and figures of eight, chiefly above the sea, at the highest altitude of 400 feet. The first landing was on the sands and the second in the sports ground of the Gardens.
Unfortunately, the next few days were windy and it was not until the Wednesday that he risked going up. Even then a treacherous south west side wind was blowing all day. He made three flights at mid day, mid afternoon and in the dusk of the evening. On each occasion he rose from the football pitch after remarkably short ground runs. He first flew westward to Leith then turning left handed, went eastward over the Gardens and the Pier to Joppa and home again, describing a figure of eight He thus kept his promise to fly twice over the house of ex Councillor Currie, Edinburgh. A height of 700 feet was attained. His landings were clever in the fluky wind. In the evening, though the wind had freshened to a stiff breeze, with disconcerting gusts, M. Marty went up for a short flight in order not to disappoint the many people who had assembled. His machine, which ordinarily keeps on an even keel, was knocked about considerably by the side wind. His landing was loudly cheered.
The following day was just as bad. The air was full of cross currents. Danger beset the start and continuance of a short flight of about six miles. It was found that the application of varnish to the propeller had reduced the rate of revolution and M. Marty spent a good deal of time in getting the defect remedied. For the first time since he had come to Scotland he was unable to take the air right away. After some overhauling of the machine he gave the signal to let go a second time. Instead of rising in the middle or before reaching the middle of the sports ground he ran along almost to the edge of his available surface and when he lifted he was still below the level of the corrugated iron fence a few yards away. With great coolness and nerve, M. Marty jerked his lever and the biplane was lifted over the fence with only a yard to spare. The crowd outside the Gardens scattered as the machine passed close over their heads. Dropping again, the biplane was less than two metres above the sea before it began to mount. Then it was tossed about in a manner which alarmed the crowd. All the way in the figure of eight course to Seafield and Joppa the same pitching was experienced and M. Marty had to balance all the way. When he got out of his machine, the young Frenchman declared he had just had the narrowest escape he had ever experienced.
Before he left on the Saturday he attempted a spiral volplane and the dropping of bombs on a target placed in front of the grandstand. In the afternoon thousands were delighted with his aerial display of quarter of an hour, during which he manoeuvred his Caudron biplane in graceful fashion at a maximum height of 700 feet. In consideration for the visitors to the Gardens, he did not sweep so far East or west as in other flights, but wheeled and circled and cut figures of eight. At one time he swooped down to within thirty feet of the ground in the middle of the football park and, with a wave of his hand to some friends, glided up again to his maximum height. For the first time he failed to cut off power soon enough for a safe landing and the result was a long ground run, finishing with some bumping over a rubbish toom and a fetch up against the barricade. Little damage was a done and Mr. Marty was loudly cheered.
The evening attempt was disastrous for the biplane, but again M. Marty escaped well. When after a trial ground run and a return to the starting point, the biplane was let go it was seen that it was not going to lift well. An accident was inevitable and rather than risk the lives of a score or so of persons outside the grounds on whom he might have fallen, the pilot shut off power, dipped the nose of his machine and crashed into a barricade of corrugated iron, which was torn by the force of the blow. The aviator kept in his seat though tossed about. The propeller was smashed in both blades, the lower planes were damaged and skids and stays were broken. The aviator said the air was too soft and as the machine had failed to lift in time he had been forced to bring it down to avoid accident to the public outside the grounds.
M. Marty left for Hendon in the evening and got a hearty send off.
Unfortunately, the next few days were windy and it was not until the Wednesday that he risked going up. Even then a treacherous south west side wind was blowing all day. He made three flights at mid day, mid afternoon and in the dusk of the evening. On each occasion he rose from the football pitch after remarkably short ground runs. He first flew westward to Leith then turning left handed, went eastward over the Gardens and the Pier to Joppa and home again, describing a figure of eight He thus kept his promise to fly twice over the house of ex Councillor Currie, Edinburgh. A height of 700 feet was attained. His landings were clever in the fluky wind. In the evening, though the wind had freshened to a stiff breeze, with disconcerting gusts, M. Marty went up for a short flight in order not to disappoint the many people who had assembled. His machine, which ordinarily keeps on an even keel, was knocked about considerably by the side wind. His landing was loudly cheered.
The following day was just as bad. The air was full of cross currents. Danger beset the start and continuance of a short flight of about six miles. It was found that the application of varnish to the propeller had reduced the rate of revolution and M. Marty spent a good deal of time in getting the defect remedied. For the first time since he had come to Scotland he was unable to take the air right away. After some overhauling of the machine he gave the signal to let go a second time. Instead of rising in the middle or before reaching the middle of the sports ground he ran along almost to the edge of his available surface and when he lifted he was still below the level of the corrugated iron fence a few yards away. With great coolness and nerve, M. Marty jerked his lever and the biplane was lifted over the fence with only a yard to spare. The crowd outside the Gardens scattered as the machine passed close over their heads. Dropping again, the biplane was less than two metres above the sea before it began to mount. Then it was tossed about in a manner which alarmed the crowd. All the way in the figure of eight course to Seafield and Joppa the same pitching was experienced and M. Marty had to balance all the way. When he got out of his machine, the young Frenchman declared he had just had the narrowest escape he had ever experienced.
Before he left on the Saturday he attempted a spiral volplane and the dropping of bombs on a target placed in front of the grandstand. In the afternoon thousands were delighted with his aerial display of quarter of an hour, during which he manoeuvred his Caudron biplane in graceful fashion at a maximum height of 700 feet. In consideration for the visitors to the Gardens, he did not sweep so far East or west as in other flights, but wheeled and circled and cut figures of eight. At one time he swooped down to within thirty feet of the ground in the middle of the football park and, with a wave of his hand to some friends, glided up again to his maximum height. For the first time he failed to cut off power soon enough for a safe landing and the result was a long ground run, finishing with some bumping over a rubbish toom and a fetch up against the barricade. Little damage was a done and Mr. Marty was loudly cheered.
The evening attempt was disastrous for the biplane, but again M. Marty escaped well. When after a trial ground run and a return to the starting point, the biplane was let go it was seen that it was not going to lift well. An accident was inevitable and rather than risk the lives of a score or so of persons outside the grounds on whom he might have fallen, the pilot shut off power, dipped the nose of his machine and crashed into a barricade of corrugated iron, which was torn by the force of the blow. The aviator kept in his seat though tossed about. The propeller was smashed in both blades, the lower planes were damaged and skids and stays were broken. The aviator said the air was too soft and as the machine had failed to lift in time he had been forced to bring it down to avoid accident to the public outside the grounds.
M. Marty left for Hendon in the evening and got a hearty send off.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
10 August saw an attractive spectacle provided in by members of the Lothians and Border Horse Territorial Regiment. As usual, the representatives well upheld the regiment’s reputation for clever horsemanship. After a musical ride by a team of sixteen, various competitions were engaged in. Trooper Young took pride of place in the heads and posts, lemon cutting and tent pegging events. Other events were a bending race, a push ball game and the ever popular Victoria Cross race, which includes the saving of dummies. A large gathering of spectators occupied the grandstand and other portions of the sports ground.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Though the 1912 season was plagued by bad weather, the Scotsman commented that the Marine Gardens might be not inaptly described as a cosmopolitan rendezvous. When the tourist season was in full swing, crowds of people of various nationalities had found their way to the Gardens and, though fortune had not altogether smiled on the pleasure resort so far as the weather was concerned, the number of visitors had been consistently well maintained, among them being many people who had taken advantage of the holiday excursions to Portobello which were a feature of the summer months in several towns.
One of the main factors was the interesting and attractive programmes submitted by the management.
For the first time the band of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers paid a visit to the Gardens and attracted a large crowd to the band court .
Old favourites with Edinburgh audiences were Edward H. Lucas and his daughter, whose excellent portrayal of some of the most notable scenes in the works of Dickens were cordially appreciated by a large audience in the Marine theatre. Foden Williams, humorous entertainer, elicited hearty laughter and the bioscope pictures were a source of enjoyment to young and old.
The dancing in the Empress ballroom was as popular as ever.
One of the main factors was the interesting and attractive programmes submitted by the management.
For the first time the band of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers paid a visit to the Gardens and attracted a large crowd to the band court .
Old favourites with Edinburgh audiences were Edward H. Lucas and his daughter, whose excellent portrayal of some of the most notable scenes in the works of Dickens were cordially appreciated by a large audience in the Marine theatre. Foden Williams, humorous entertainer, elicited hearty laughter and the bioscope pictures were a source of enjoyment to young and old.
The dancing in the Empress ballroom was as popular as ever.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
On 15 August, on the invitation of the management of the Marine Gardens, a party of about 200 disabled adults and children, (or, as the Scotsman put it :”mostly cripples,”) were conveyed to Portobello in special cars for an outing at the Gardens.
The trip was under the auspices of the Queen Victoria Jubilee Nurses Institute and the Invalid Children’s Aid Society.
A start was made from the Post Office, while those who were unable to board the cars were wheeled down to the Marine Gardens in chairs. An enjoyable time was spent with the children finding ample entertainment on the numerous amusement devices. Tea was served to the company.
The trip was under the auspices of the Queen Victoria Jubilee Nurses Institute and the Invalid Children’s Aid Society.
A start was made from the Post Office, while those who were unable to board the cars were wheeled down to the Marine Gardens in chairs. An enjoyable time was spent with the children finding ample entertainment on the numerous amusement devices. Tea was served to the company.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.