William Anderson was back in court again the following year.
This time his carters had 'accidentally' mistaken Craigentinny for Fisherrow and Samuel Christiemiller, the proprietor of the Craigentinny Estate had taken action against him. Mr. Christiemiller said that he had no option as the foundation of the boundary wall along the seashore was being undermined by the removal of the sand.
Anderson was quite blatant in his defence. He said that he didn't give a damn about any interdict which the court might award against him. He needed sand for his business and sand he would have. Besides, other carters were taking sand from Portobello beach and he saw no reason why he should not take it as well.
Portobello beach was easy picking because he knew that the Benhar Coal Company were not in a position to undergo the expense of a prosecution. Sometimes his men were chased by the Portobello police but as soon as they crossed over the Figgate burn they were in the Leith Constabulary area and quite safe.
The carters used to arrive after dark and leave again about five o'clock in the morning. After partially loading their carts at Portobello they left by the Craigentinny foreshore and filled up the carts as they went along so as to have a light a load for as long as they could.
Needless to say, Mr. Christiemiller was awarded his interdict and, equally needless to say, William Anderson continued to remove sand from Portobello beach.
On The Beach
It was one of those wet Scottish summers in 1879 and the takings on the pier were well down on previous years. In fact, the profits for the whole season only amounted to £165 14s 7d.
The observatory and museum was particularly badly affected and was advertised for sale complete with its camera obscura (the largest in Scotland), the collection of electric clocks, magnetic batteries, kaleidoscopes and numerous other curiosities. The owners of the pier suggested that it was well adapted for the sale of fancy articles, or might even make a good photographic studio.
Having hazarded the weather, visitors to the pier also had to face the problem of pickpocketing, which was rife on the pier that summer. Perhaps the boldest theft was that of a gold watch valued at £70 taken straight off the waistcoat of an american gentleman who was visiting Portobello on his vacation.
Among those up before the magistrates for the offence were James Watson and Mary O'Keefe (also known as Macnamara). They had been arrested for dipping their hands into the pockets of several ladies during the course of a Saturday afternoon. It was not their first offence: they had stolen some money a fortnight before. They were each sentenced to fourteen days imprisonment.
Unfortunately, as many accomplices escaped as criminals were caught.
The observatory and museum was particularly badly affected and was advertised for sale complete with its camera obscura (the largest in Scotland), the collection of electric clocks, magnetic batteries, kaleidoscopes and numerous other curiosities. The owners of the pier suggested that it was well adapted for the sale of fancy articles, or might even make a good photographic studio.
Having hazarded the weather, visitors to the pier also had to face the problem of pickpocketing, which was rife on the pier that summer. Perhaps the boldest theft was that of a gold watch valued at £70 taken straight off the waistcoat of an american gentleman who was visiting Portobello on his vacation.
Among those up before the magistrates for the offence were James Watson and Mary O'Keefe (also known as Macnamara). They had been arrested for dipping their hands into the pockets of several ladies during the course of a Saturday afternoon. It was not their first offence: they had stolen some money a fortnight before. They were each sentenced to fourteen days imprisonment.
Unfortunately, as many accomplices escaped as criminals were caught.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
By 1880 the salmon fishing was becoming a bit of a problem. Nets were being used at various points along the beach and the East Lothian and Berwickshire Yeomanry complained that the fishing was interfering with their ability to drill properly on the sands.
The Town Council put the matter to the Commissioners of Woods and Forests, who had issued the fishing permits, but were told that the beach had been leased for fishing and that the arrangement could not be disturbed. (The yearly sum paid by the lessee for the fishing rights was £9.)
To accommodate the Yeomanry, the Council arranged to have the bathing coaches moved to allow a greater available area of beach for the military manouevres.
Presumably George Grey of Pipe Street was not interested in either fishing or military training. On 19 August he began thirty days imprisonment with hard labour for exposing himself to women on the pier.
The Town Council put the matter to the Commissioners of Woods and Forests, who had issued the fishing permits, but were told that the beach had been leased for fishing and that the arrangement could not be disturbed. (The yearly sum paid by the lessee for the fishing rights was £9.)
To accommodate the Yeomanry, the Council arranged to have the bathing coaches moved to allow a greater available area of beach for the military manouevres.
Presumably George Grey of Pipe Street was not interested in either fishing or military training. On 19 August he began thirty days imprisonment with hard labour for exposing himself to women on the pier.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
18 June 1881 saw the first swimming regatta held at Portobello pier. Despite the showery and threatening nature of the weather which had an inevitable effect on the attendance, it went off well.
There was an excellent programme of competitive events and Professor Johnson and his daughters gave an exhibition of scientific and ornamental swimming. The young ladies, in particular, presented a pleasing and graceful display.
Some amusement was caused by several of the swimmers, one of them dressed as a lady, going off in a small boat which they then capsized, allowing themselves to be rescued by others who plunged in from the pier.
A duck hunt and two boat races added interest to the proceedings and those spectators who did brave the weather were serenaded by the Portobello Trades Band.
There was an excellent programme of competitive events and Professor Johnson and his daughters gave an exhibition of scientific and ornamental swimming. The young ladies, in particular, presented a pleasing and graceful display.
Some amusement was caused by several of the swimmers, one of them dressed as a lady, going off in a small boat which they then capsized, allowing themselves to be rescued by others who plunged in from the pier.
A duck hunt and two boat races added interest to the proceedings and those spectators who did brave the weather were serenaded by the Portobello Trades Band.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
While walking along the front at Craigentinny about five o'clock on 14 May 1884, one Portobello resident came across a jacket lying on the grass, but there was no immediate sign of the owner.
Inspecting the jacket to see if there was any indication of who it might belong to so that he could return it, he came across a copy of the Glasgow Harbour Bylaws with the address of Mrs. J. Low, 38 Athole Street, Poplar, London inscribed on the inside cover. That was all, apart from three and a half pence and a pipe.
About to take the jacket along to the police station, the walker spotted something in the tide. On closer inspection it proved to be the body of a man dressed in a tweed waistcoat and vest with blue serge trousers. He looked to be about fifty years of age.
The police conveyed the body to the mortuary on Portobello beach, where it was examined by Dr. Balfour. It seemed that the man had been in the water for about three hours and, given that he was fully clothed apart from his jacket , it was assumed that he had comitted suicide.
Following inquiries to Mrs. Low, it was established that he was James Scott, an engine fitter who lived in Castle Street, Glasgow. Scott had been out of work for some time and had come through to Edinburgh in search of work.
Inspecting the jacket to see if there was any indication of who it might belong to so that he could return it, he came across a copy of the Glasgow Harbour Bylaws with the address of Mrs. J. Low, 38 Athole Street, Poplar, London inscribed on the inside cover. That was all, apart from three and a half pence and a pipe.
About to take the jacket along to the police station, the walker spotted something in the tide. On closer inspection it proved to be the body of a man dressed in a tweed waistcoat and vest with blue serge trousers. He looked to be about fifty years of age.
The police conveyed the body to the mortuary on Portobello beach, where it was examined by Dr. Balfour. It seemed that the man had been in the water for about three hours and, given that he was fully clothed apart from his jacket , it was assumed that he had comitted suicide.
Following inquiries to Mrs. Low, it was established that he was James Scott, an engine fitter who lived in Castle Street, Glasgow. Scott had been out of work for some time and had come through to Edinburgh in search of work.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Swimming regattas became a regular annual feature at the pier.
1884 saw the introduction of tub racing , high diving and a polo match. The tub race, or rather the attempt to have one, was somewhat farcical as the tubs kept overturning, filling with water and sinking. It was almost impossible for any of the entrants to get back into their tubs once they had overturned and it was definitely impossible to decide who had won.
The polo match was six a side, red caps against black and ended in a draw.
Only two people entered the high diving from the top of the pier: Mr. Webster Brown and Mr. Turnbull. Both dived well and were declared equal.
The following year the major innovation was the introduction of tableaux vivant.
Swimmers disguised as Mr. Gladstone, Lord Roseberry and Mr. John Bright appeared on board a yacht and were cheered repeatedly by the crowd on the pier. A clever speech was delivered by Mr. Gladstone and his references to the coming General Election and his intention of again contesting Midlothian were enthusiatically received. At the end of his speech the three statemen dived into the water and had a race to the pier. Lord Roseberry arrived first.
After the regatta a set of false teeth was found on the beach and handed into the bathing coach proprietor.
Meanwhile the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals inspected the ponies and donkeys on the beach and declared that few cases of ill usage had been noted.
1884 saw the introduction of tub racing , high diving and a polo match. The tub race, or rather the attempt to have one, was somewhat farcical as the tubs kept overturning, filling with water and sinking. It was almost impossible for any of the entrants to get back into their tubs once they had overturned and it was definitely impossible to decide who had won.
The polo match was six a side, red caps against black and ended in a draw.
Only two people entered the high diving from the top of the pier: Mr. Webster Brown and Mr. Turnbull. Both dived well and were declared equal.
The following year the major innovation was the introduction of tableaux vivant.
Swimmers disguised as Mr. Gladstone, Lord Roseberry and Mr. John Bright appeared on board a yacht and were cheered repeatedly by the crowd on the pier. A clever speech was delivered by Mr. Gladstone and his references to the coming General Election and his intention of again contesting Midlothian were enthusiatically received. At the end of his speech the three statemen dived into the water and had a race to the pier. Lord Roseberry arrived first.
After the regatta a set of false teeth was found on the beach and handed into the bathing coach proprietor.
Meanwhile the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals inspected the ponies and donkeys on the beach and declared that few cases of ill usage had been noted.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
By the summer of 1885 Portobello had its own Amateur Rowing Club and at the end of August they held their first rowing regatta.
The weather was fine and the wind was low, which meant that the rowing went well and that there was a large crowd on the pier to spectate.
The course was a distance of about one and a quarter miles round two buoys placed to the east and the west of the pier.
Considerable amusement was caused by a sham boating party joining in with the genuine rowers, though their involvement did not affect the final outcome of the races.
The weather was fine and the wind was low, which meant that the rowing went well and that there was a large crowd on the pier to spectate.
The course was a distance of about one and a quarter miles round two buoys placed to the east and the west of the pier.
Considerable amusement was caused by a sham boating party joining in with the genuine rowers, though their involvement did not affect the final outcome of the races.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
1886 saw problems with the running of licenced premises in the pier saloon. As just one example, a clerk named David Jenner pleaded guilty at the Portobello Police Court of assaulting a domestic servant on the promenade. He had been drinking on the pier and spotted the girl, whom he then began to pester. He followed her along the promenade, forced her up against a wall and attempted to kiss her. When she struggled, he struck her head against the wall. He was fined £3. There were many such Jenners.
In an attempt to curb the problem, the Company stopped selling intoxicating liquor, declaring the pier saloon to be a temperance hall. It meant that the problem stopped immediately, disorderly conduct ceased and the pier went into a dramatic financial decline.
The Portobello Pier Company were in trouble. Since 1881 their profits had been declining and the cost of keeping the pier in good shape was increasing. They could not keep up the pier without the attraction which the restaurant and its bar provided.
On 1 October 1886 at 2 p.m. Portobello Pier, including its refreshment rooms, dining saloon etc. was sold by public auction for £2,500.
The catalogue for the sale described it as a quarter of a mile long and with some judicious outlay in repairs and improvements would form, in the hands of an enterprising and experienced proprietor, a very popular resort and lucrative investment. It would also be an excellent place for landing and embarking passengers by the pleasure vessels now becoming so numerous on the Firth of Forth. Portobello, known as the Brighton of Scotland is situated within three miles of Edinburgh and there are trains and tramcars every few minutes. The resident and season population is large and rapidly increasing while the visitors from Edinburgh and surrounding districts number many thousands daily during the summer. The sands are unrivalled in the East coast and are yearly being resorted to for bathing.
The purchaser was Mr. M.P. Galloway of Leith.
In an attempt to curb the problem, the Company stopped selling intoxicating liquor, declaring the pier saloon to be a temperance hall. It meant that the problem stopped immediately, disorderly conduct ceased and the pier went into a dramatic financial decline.
The Portobello Pier Company were in trouble. Since 1881 their profits had been declining and the cost of keeping the pier in good shape was increasing. They could not keep up the pier without the attraction which the restaurant and its bar provided.
On 1 October 1886 at 2 p.m. Portobello Pier, including its refreshment rooms, dining saloon etc. was sold by public auction for £2,500.
The catalogue for the sale described it as a quarter of a mile long and with some judicious outlay in repairs and improvements would form, in the hands of an enterprising and experienced proprietor, a very popular resort and lucrative investment. It would also be an excellent place for landing and embarking passengers by the pleasure vessels now becoming so numerous on the Firth of Forth. Portobello, known as the Brighton of Scotland is situated within three miles of Edinburgh and there are trains and tramcars every few minutes. The resident and season population is large and rapidly increasing while the visitors from Edinburgh and surrounding districts number many thousands daily during the summer. The sands are unrivalled in the East coast and are yearly being resorted to for bathing.
The purchaser was Mr. M.P. Galloway of Leith.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Mr. Galloway, it transpired, was the owner a a fleet of steam cruisers, which he intended to operate out of Leith and Portobello. Pride of place in his fleet was the Tantallon Castle.
The pier had been allowed to get into rather a bad state of repair and Galloway made a good start on the necessary work. By April 1887 he had spent over £4,000 on repairs and £12,000 in preparation for the steamer trips. He also made it known that, while the saloon would once again be selling strong drink, it would not remain open at night, but close a nine o'clock, after the last steamer had gone.
The Pier re-opened on 19 May with an inaugural trip by the steamer Edinburgh Castle. Admissions to the pier were 2d, steamer excursions 1s. By 28 May the Edinburgh Castle and the Tantallon Castle were regularly plying their way to and from the Forth Bridge at 12 noon and 2.30 p.m.
Disaster struck on 6 June when the Tantallon Castle struck the pier, literally cutting it in two. Fortunately there were no casulaties, though a considerable number of people were in panic and shock.
As a stiff south west breeze was blowing, Captain Dawson brought his vessel round to the east or leeward side of the pier head. On reaching the landing stage the hawsers were thrown ashore and the men were engaged making them fast when, to the surprise of those standing on the pier, the vessel continued to forge ahead. It seemed to them that either the reversing or the steering gear was at fault for the vessel still kept on its way steaming along the leeside of the pier towards the shore.
When nearly midway between the pier head and the beach the starboard paddle box collided with one of the iron columns supporting the gangway or promenade and snapped it in two making the structure tremble from end to end. Another three of the columns were subsequently knocked away and the superstructure of girders, timber and handrail at fell on the top of the steamer, holding her fast for about twenty minutes.
Immediately after the accident occurred the passengers were put ashore in the lifeboat but were taken aboard again from the pier later on.
The Tantallon Castle suffered comparatively little damage, her bridge rails and davits only being carried away.
Anchors were quickly put out and as the tide rose the boat was floated off. No sooner did she get clear of the wreckage than the corresponding columns on the west or windward side, under the strain of the overhanging girders and planking also gave way, leaving a gap in the pier of between forty and fifty yards wide.
The people on the pier who were waiting for the steamer and those on board were greatly alarmed but as stated no one was hurt. The people on the end of the pier were, of course, cut off from communication with the land and had to be taken off in boats.
The part of the pier which gave way was absolutely wrecked and lay in a heap almost covered by water. On a rough calculation the damage was assessed to be considerably over £500.
The pier had been allowed to get into rather a bad state of repair and Galloway made a good start on the necessary work. By April 1887 he had spent over £4,000 on repairs and £12,000 in preparation for the steamer trips. He also made it known that, while the saloon would once again be selling strong drink, it would not remain open at night, but close a nine o'clock, after the last steamer had gone.
The Pier re-opened on 19 May with an inaugural trip by the steamer Edinburgh Castle. Admissions to the pier were 2d, steamer excursions 1s. By 28 May the Edinburgh Castle and the Tantallon Castle were regularly plying their way to and from the Forth Bridge at 12 noon and 2.30 p.m.
Disaster struck on 6 June when the Tantallon Castle struck the pier, literally cutting it in two. Fortunately there were no casulaties, though a considerable number of people were in panic and shock.
As a stiff south west breeze was blowing, Captain Dawson brought his vessel round to the east or leeward side of the pier head. On reaching the landing stage the hawsers were thrown ashore and the men were engaged making them fast when, to the surprise of those standing on the pier, the vessel continued to forge ahead. It seemed to them that either the reversing or the steering gear was at fault for the vessel still kept on its way steaming along the leeside of the pier towards the shore.
When nearly midway between the pier head and the beach the starboard paddle box collided with one of the iron columns supporting the gangway or promenade and snapped it in two making the structure tremble from end to end. Another three of the columns were subsequently knocked away and the superstructure of girders, timber and handrail at fell on the top of the steamer, holding her fast for about twenty minutes.
Immediately after the accident occurred the passengers were put ashore in the lifeboat but were taken aboard again from the pier later on.
The Tantallon Castle suffered comparatively little damage, her bridge rails and davits only being carried away.
Anchors were quickly put out and as the tide rose the boat was floated off. No sooner did she get clear of the wreckage than the corresponding columns on the west or windward side, under the strain of the overhanging girders and planking also gave way, leaving a gap in the pier of between forty and fifty yards wide.
The people on the pier who were waiting for the steamer and those on board were greatly alarmed but as stated no one was hurt. The people on the end of the pier were, of course, cut off from communication with the land and had to be taken off in boats.
The part of the pier which gave way was absolutely wrecked and lay in a heap almost covered by water. On a rough calculation the damage was assessed to be considerably over £500.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Despite the damage to the pier activities on the beach carried on as usual.
The Lorne Swimming Club hosted an aquatic entertainment on 20 August during which the Brother Baillie gave an interesting exhibition of gymnastic diving. They performed a number of feats on a horizontal bar about twenty feet above the sea and then dived into the water in all sorts of positions. The entertainment concluded with what was termed a comic aquatic sketch in which about a dozen members of the swimming club, dressed in character costume, appeared in a punt. They then attempted to shave each other, in the course of which the punt overturned and they pitched head foremost into the water.
The Edinburgh and Leith Model Yacht Club put on an exhibition of model boats, yachts and life saving apparatus. Though small, the exhibition attracted a lot of interest and remained open during July and August.
The Lorne Swimming Club hosted an aquatic entertainment on 20 August during which the Brother Baillie gave an interesting exhibition of gymnastic diving. They performed a number of feats on a horizontal bar about twenty feet above the sea and then dived into the water in all sorts of positions. The entertainment concluded with what was termed a comic aquatic sketch in which about a dozen members of the swimming club, dressed in character costume, appeared in a punt. They then attempted to shave each other, in the course of which the punt overturned and they pitched head foremost into the water.
The Edinburgh and Leith Model Yacht Club put on an exhibition of model boats, yachts and life saving apparatus. Though small, the exhibition attracted a lot of interest and remained open during July and August.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
So fond were the Scottish Regiments of their exercises on Portobello beach that when, with the development of Field Batteries, the Artillery Corps began to take on increasing importance during the 1890's, the beach was proposed as a potential firing range.
It was an ideal site, being nearly a mile of clear level sand within easy marching distance of the barracks at Piershill.
The idea received considerable support among the military hierarchy and it was only by the narrowest of margins that Portobello escape becoming the base for target practice for the scottish gunners.
It was an ideal site, being nearly a mile of clear level sand within easy marching distance of the barracks at Piershill.
The idea received considerable support among the military hierarchy and it was only by the narrowest of margins that Portobello escape becoming the base for target practice for the scottish gunners.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
About half past six on the evening of 15 August 1889 a yacht named the Foam was observed by the promenaders on the pier and beach to overturn, throwing the four occupants into the water. The sudden capsizing was the result of a squally breeze which took the occupants of the yacht unawares.
Fortunately for them they had a small boat in tow and cutting it adrift they managed to scramble in to it and after some delay through the loss of an oar, made safely to the shore.
Almost immediately afterwards another craft, the Norna, which was about a quarter mile from the pier head was also noticed to capsize and the owner and a companion were seen struggling in the water.
Both could swim and they were able to keep afloat until the steamer Lord Aberdour which was backing from the pier reached them.
A couple of life buoys were thrown to them and these they seized and sustained themselves in the water until a boat from the shore picked them up.
Both the Foam and Norna sank.
The accidents were the cause of considerable excitement upon the pier and beach to which a large number of people had been attracted by the arrival of Professor Albert from his attempt to swim the Forth.
Fortunately for them they had a small boat in tow and cutting it adrift they managed to scramble in to it and after some delay through the loss of an oar, made safely to the shore.
Almost immediately afterwards another craft, the Norna, which was about a quarter mile from the pier head was also noticed to capsize and the owner and a companion were seen struggling in the water.
Both could swim and they were able to keep afloat until the steamer Lord Aberdour which was backing from the pier reached them.
A couple of life buoys were thrown to them and these they seized and sustained themselves in the water until a boat from the shore picked them up.
Both the Foam and Norna sank.
The accidents were the cause of considerable excitement upon the pier and beach to which a large number of people had been attracted by the arrival of Professor Albert from his attempt to swim the Forth.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
There was a light drizzle on the evening of 15 August 1890.
People walking along the Promenade at about five to ten observed a strange phenomenon.
If they chanced to look towards the north east, there appeared to be a rainbow which stood well up, towards the zenith. It was very clearly defined and the outer bow was faintly visible. It very much resembled a lunar rainbow but was a great deal brighter.
In about half a minute it began to fade and two seconds later had entirely disappeared.
There was no moon at the time and people looked round to see if they could discover what had produced the phenomenon. There was the reflection of a brilliant light in the sky opposite, but no indication of what had caused it, or the rainbow.
People walking along the Promenade at about five to ten observed a strange phenomenon.
If they chanced to look towards the north east, there appeared to be a rainbow which stood well up, towards the zenith. It was very clearly defined and the outer bow was faintly visible. It very much resembled a lunar rainbow but was a great deal brighter.
In about half a minute it began to fade and two seconds later had entirely disappeared.
There was no moon at the time and people looked round to see if they could discover what had produced the phenomenon. There was the reflection of a brilliant light in the sky opposite, but no indication of what had caused it, or the rainbow.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Summer 1891 saw a series of Sunday evening concerts given by Messrs. Dunn and Davidson's band. The vocalists were Herr Oscar Mainz and Mr. H. B. Brandreth of La Cigale Opera Company.
The concerts proved popular, with regular attendances of 1,100 people coming through the turnstile.
However, the concerts were not to the liking of the Sabbath Alliance of Scotland.
It was their contention that the pier was now under the management of a small body of shareholders who had inaugurated this iniquitous series of concerts against the expressed desire of almost the entire community of Portobello. It was well known that the people who frequented these concerts were not inhabitants of the town, but were conveyed by rail from Edinburgh to idulge in their perverse pleasures.
The Sabbath Alliance sent a letter of remonstrance to the shareholders of Mr. Galloway's Company.
In response, letters appeared in the Scotsman pointing out that the majority of people attending the concerts were well kent faces from Portobello.
The concerts proved popular, with regular attendances of 1,100 people coming through the turnstile.
However, the concerts were not to the liking of the Sabbath Alliance of Scotland.
It was their contention that the pier was now under the management of a small body of shareholders who had inaugurated this iniquitous series of concerts against the expressed desire of almost the entire community of Portobello. It was well known that the people who frequented these concerts were not inhabitants of the town, but were conveyed by rail from Edinburgh to idulge in their perverse pleasures.
The Sabbath Alliance sent a letter of remonstrance to the shareholders of Mr. Galloway's Company.
In response, letters appeared in the Scotsman pointing out that the majority of people attending the concerts were well kent faces from Portobello.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
On the Saturday afternoon after Christmas thirteen members of the Edinburgh Harriers turned up at an festive run from Portobello pier. As there was such a small muster it was thought unnecessary to lay a trail so the thirteen formed themselves into one pack and had a splendid run of over seven miles in 47 minutes. The route taken was through the town to Duddingston Crescent, past Lady Napier’s to Niddrie pits thence cross country down through Craighall back to the Promenade, finishing at the end of the pier.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
In early 1892 the Galloway Steam Packet Company decided to cover in the top promenade deck at the seaward end of the pier in order to create a music room, and to remove the kiosk, which had held the old museum and observatory.
The Licensing Court heard that the alterations were not structural alterations which made any substantial difference to the character of the licensed premises.
However, The large saloon in connection with the bar had been changed from a restaurant into a music or singing saloon and that was not consistant with the law in regard to licensing. In particular, the Sabbath Alliance of Scotland had drawn the Court's attention to lewd and promiscuous dancing on the pier.
The Company pointed out that the premises had been licensed for three years and during two thirds of that time dancing had been conducted on the pier without the slightest objection having been made.
The dancing took place in the broad daylight and on every occasion the Inspector of Police was present and there had been no complaint with regard to what took place.
It was emphatically denied that people were allowed to go and accost girls and invite them to dance. The people who danced on the pier were friends who came down to enjoy the music and who danced, if they felt disposed, not promiscuously with strangers but with their friends.
The licence was granted on the condition that the public promiscuous dancing had to stop.
The Licensing Court heard that the alterations were not structural alterations which made any substantial difference to the character of the licensed premises.
However, The large saloon in connection with the bar had been changed from a restaurant into a music or singing saloon and that was not consistant with the law in regard to licensing. In particular, the Sabbath Alliance of Scotland had drawn the Court's attention to lewd and promiscuous dancing on the pier.
The Company pointed out that the premises had been licensed for three years and during two thirds of that time dancing had been conducted on the pier without the slightest objection having been made.
The dancing took place in the broad daylight and on every occasion the Inspector of Police was present and there had been no complaint with regard to what took place.
It was emphatically denied that people were allowed to go and accost girls and invite them to dance. The people who danced on the pier were friends who came down to enjoy the music and who danced, if they felt disposed, not promiscuously with strangers but with their friends.
The licence was granted on the condition that the public promiscuous dancing had to stop.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The Sabbath Alliance were also scandalised by the entertainment provided in the Pier Pavilion.
On the week ending 13 May 1892 a visitor could see Foote's Funny Fancies and listen to the singing of Mr. George Fox Jun. (Baritone) and Miss Alice Olive (Soprano).
Throughout June Mr. and Mrs. Dixon Moffat and Miss Jane Ford provided the entertainment.
They were followed by Mr. R.A. Roberts, the well known musical mimic and Mr. Herbert Bates, the favourite Manchester Tenor, together with Professor Rossini, the world famous conjuror and the Marvellous Midget Minstrels.
The season ended in September with Herr Karl Birvel, the ventriloquist; Fred Fernie, the scotch comic; Valval, the bird performer; McCormack the negro song and dance artiste and Madame Pollinta's marvellous mechanical marionettes. Music was provided by the Band of HMS Caledonia under the baton of Mr. G. Daines.
This was all too much for the Scottish Sabbath Alliance who considered what was going on at Portobello Pier to be a scandal. They protested vigorously to the Council, applying so much pressure that the Magistrates revoked the Pier's entertainment licence on 22 May 1893.
On the week ending 13 May 1892 a visitor could see Foote's Funny Fancies and listen to the singing of Mr. George Fox Jun. (Baritone) and Miss Alice Olive (Soprano).
Throughout June Mr. and Mrs. Dixon Moffat and Miss Jane Ford provided the entertainment.
They were followed by Mr. R.A. Roberts, the well known musical mimic and Mr. Herbert Bates, the favourite Manchester Tenor, together with Professor Rossini, the world famous conjuror and the Marvellous Midget Minstrels.
The season ended in September with Herr Karl Birvel, the ventriloquist; Fred Fernie, the scotch comic; Valval, the bird performer; McCormack the negro song and dance artiste and Madame Pollinta's marvellous mechanical marionettes. Music was provided by the Band of HMS Caledonia under the baton of Mr. G. Daines.
This was all too much for the Scottish Sabbath Alliance who considered what was going on at Portobello Pier to be a scandal. They protested vigorously to the Council, applying so much pressure that the Magistrates revoked the Pier's entertainment licence on 22 May 1893.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Despite the Sabbath Alliance, entertainment went on, it simply transferred to the beach.
A series of concerts, billed as "Music for the People" took place on the sands throughout the summer of 1893. Typical of the programmes presented is this one from 27 June:
March The Hero - Aiden;
Cornet Solo Ora Pro Noble - Piccolomiol ( soloist, Mr. R. Thorburn);
Valse Valley of Fearns - Round;
Selection from Beethoven;
Polka Busy Bee - Pund;
Selection from Donizetti;
Schottische Gay and Festive - Rose
Selection from Genius of Erin - Round;
God Save The Queen
The Pier meanwhile played host to the first annual regatta of the Eastern Amateur Rowing Club.
A very large crowd of people congregated at the end of the pier from which a full view of the various races could be obtained while a great number piloted themselves about in boats. There were twelve items on the programme of which seven were pair or four oared matches and generally the races were keenly contested. The big event, however, was the race for yachts rating under 15 tons and no fewer than nine vessels started including several well known cutters.
Later in the year Portobello Amateur Rowing Club held their ninth annual regatta.
By the end of July Grand Sacred Concerts were being held on the beach every Sunday and variety performances daily at 3 and 7 p.m.
Needless to say, this highlighted the nonsense of the licensing position and, despite the Scottish Sabbath Alliance, the Galloway Steam Packet Company had their licence to hold musical and other entertainments of a like kind on Portobello Pier reinstated in April 1894.
A series of concerts, billed as "Music for the People" took place on the sands throughout the summer of 1893. Typical of the programmes presented is this one from 27 June:
March The Hero - Aiden;
Cornet Solo Ora Pro Noble - Piccolomiol ( soloist, Mr. R. Thorburn);
Valse Valley of Fearns - Round;
Selection from Beethoven;
Polka Busy Bee - Pund;
Selection from Donizetti;
Schottische Gay and Festive - Rose
Selection from Genius of Erin - Round;
God Save The Queen
The Pier meanwhile played host to the first annual regatta of the Eastern Amateur Rowing Club.
A very large crowd of people congregated at the end of the pier from which a full view of the various races could be obtained while a great number piloted themselves about in boats. There were twelve items on the programme of which seven were pair or four oared matches and generally the races were keenly contested. The big event, however, was the race for yachts rating under 15 tons and no fewer than nine vessels started including several well known cutters.
Later in the year Portobello Amateur Rowing Club held their ninth annual regatta.
By the end of July Grand Sacred Concerts were being held on the beach every Sunday and variety performances daily at 3 and 7 p.m.
Needless to say, this highlighted the nonsense of the licensing position and, despite the Scottish Sabbath Alliance, the Galloway Steam Packet Company had their licence to hold musical and other entertainments of a like kind on Portobello Pier reinstated in April 1894.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Not an organisation to give up easily, the Sabbath Alliance next went after Galloway for using the pier for steamer cruises on a Sunday.
Following their prompting, the Town Clerk of Portobello wrote to the Galloway Saloon Packet Company pointing out the agreement entered into in 1870 between the Portobello Pier Company and the Town Council whereby the Company undertook that they would never allow the pier to be used on Sundays for the embarking and landing of passengers by means of steamer or boats without the consent and approval of the Commissioners of Police of Portobello.
In reply the Galloway Saloon Steam Packet Company pointed out that they knew nothing about that arrangement.
They pointed out that Portobello Pier Company had gone out of existence in 1887 and that there was nothing in the Act of Parliament of 1869 which prevented Mr. Galloway from landing passengers on his own pier.
Following their prompting, the Town Clerk of Portobello wrote to the Galloway Saloon Packet Company pointing out the agreement entered into in 1870 between the Portobello Pier Company and the Town Council whereby the Company undertook that they would never allow the pier to be used on Sundays for the embarking and landing of passengers by means of steamer or boats without the consent and approval of the Commissioners of Police of Portobello.
In reply the Galloway Saloon Steam Packet Company pointed out that they knew nothing about that arrangement.
They pointed out that Portobello Pier Company had gone out of existence in 1887 and that there was nothing in the Act of Parliament of 1869 which prevented Mr. Galloway from landing passengers on his own pier.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Different people react to problems in different ways.
Mona Aynsley and Ada Wright were both young women having problems with their employers.
Mona Aynsley was an instrumentalist with the Portobello Pier entertainment troupe and in August 1894 she developed a summer cold which confined her to her bed. The show had to go on without her. As a consequence, Joseph Ellis, who ran the entertainment troupe, docked her wages, so she took him to court in order to recover the 6s 8d which she felt he owed her. Unfortunately witnesses testified that it was the 'rule of the profession' that 'no play meant no pay'. Sheriff Hamilton agreed and dismissed the case.
Ada Wright had left her home in Rhyl to become manageress of the Hydrotherapy clinic at Bridge of Alan, but presumably she found the responsibility more than she could handle. In early December she absconded from her post and was reported missing by the proprietors
of the clinic.
After staying a few days in lodgings in Duddingston Village, Ada walked down to Portobello beach, took off all her clothes and walked into the waves, never to be seen again.
A man out shooting sea fowl on the sands came across the bundle of clothes lying on the beach, near the brickworks. The police took possession of the garments, which contained only a small sum of money, some postage stamps and a letter with an address in Duddingston village.
Despite searches, her body was never found.
Mona Aynsley and Ada Wright were both young women having problems with their employers.
Mona Aynsley was an instrumentalist with the Portobello Pier entertainment troupe and in August 1894 she developed a summer cold which confined her to her bed. The show had to go on without her. As a consequence, Joseph Ellis, who ran the entertainment troupe, docked her wages, so she took him to court in order to recover the 6s 8d which she felt he owed her. Unfortunately witnesses testified that it was the 'rule of the profession' that 'no play meant no pay'. Sheriff Hamilton agreed and dismissed the case.
Ada Wright had left her home in Rhyl to become manageress of the Hydrotherapy clinic at Bridge of Alan, but presumably she found the responsibility more than she could handle. In early December she absconded from her post and was reported missing by the proprietors
of the clinic.
After staying a few days in lodgings in Duddingston Village, Ada walked down to Portobello beach, took off all her clothes and walked into the waves, never to be seen again.
A man out shooting sea fowl on the sands came across the bundle of clothes lying on the beach, near the brickworks. The police took possession of the garments, which contained only a small sum of money, some postage stamps and a letter with an address in Duddingston village.
Despite searches, her body was never found.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The Galloway Saloon Steam Packet Company appealed against the 1895 valuation of £250 put on the Portobello pier promenade and cafe, asking that it be reduced to £40.
The Assessor argue that Portobello pier was not being used as a pier.
No-one paid dues in order to embark on board a steamer or to land from one. The whole income was derived from its occupation as a promenade and place of entertainment. There was a cafe and connected with it there was a saloon and a particular portion of the pier was appropriated for the purposes of a sort of al fresco theatre.
The Assessor said that his way of fixing the valuation of the pier was to take a percentage on the cost of the structure. He valued the pier at £3500. He took seven and a half percent of that cost.
The Court agreed that the principle laid down by the assessor was sound but in order to meet the Company, they decided to fix the valuation at £200.
The Assessor argue that Portobello pier was not being used as a pier.
No-one paid dues in order to embark on board a steamer or to land from one. The whole income was derived from its occupation as a promenade and place of entertainment. There was a cafe and connected with it there was a saloon and a particular portion of the pier was appropriated for the purposes of a sort of al fresco theatre.
The Assessor said that his way of fixing the valuation of the pier was to take a percentage on the cost of the structure. He valued the pier at £3500. He took seven and a half percent of that cost.
The Court agreed that the principle laid down by the assessor was sound but in order to meet the Company, they decided to fix the valuation at £200.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Mr. Ferri was a confectioner who had a sweet shop on the Royal Mile. He was also a keen rifleman and often went down to Portobello beach to take pot shots at the sea birds.
On 20 December 1895 he was picking out potential targets when he spotted a number of pigeons and let loose, killing two of the birds.
Unfortunately, these were not any old pigeons, they were carrier pigeons belonging to R.D. Brown of Glen Cottage, Musselburgh.
Brown sued for the loss of his pigeons.
At the trial on 4 March 1896, Ferri argued that the pigeons were just pigeons and had no real value, whereupon Brown's lawyer brought on pigeon fancier after pigeon fancier, some of international reputation, to testify to the value of the birds.
In its judgement, the court found that the original shooting had been reckless and that Mr. Ferri could not have been aware, at the time, that the birds were carrier pigeons, nevertheless, they were valuable birds. He was ordered to pay Brown full compensation.
On 20 December 1895 he was picking out potential targets when he spotted a number of pigeons and let loose, killing two of the birds.
Unfortunately, these were not any old pigeons, they were carrier pigeons belonging to R.D. Brown of Glen Cottage, Musselburgh.
Brown sued for the loss of his pigeons.
At the trial on 4 March 1896, Ferri argued that the pigeons were just pigeons and had no real value, whereupon Brown's lawyer brought on pigeon fancier after pigeon fancier, some of international reputation, to testify to the value of the birds.
In its judgement, the court found that the original shooting had been reckless and that Mr. Ferri could not have been aware, at the time, that the birds were carrier pigeons, nevertheless, they were valuable birds. He was ordered to pay Brown full compensation.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Sheriff Boyle Hope was a well known figure around Portobello in the 1890s.
On the morning of 9 September 1896 he breakfasted as usual about nine o’clock and remained at home until between one and two in the afternoon, when he went out seemingly in his usual state of health.
When the servants retired to rest he had not returned, but they did not feel at all uneasy on that account as their idea was that he would be in the company of his son, who had a law office in Edinburgh. To save him any inconvenince when he did come home, they lit the gas in his room. On entering the room in the morning they were much surprised to find the gas still burning, which at once convinced them that the Sheriff had not returned.
Some time thereafter a detective from the Midlothian County Police office called to make inquiries about their master, whereupon they began to suspect that something unusual had happened. At the request of the detective they gave a description of the Sheriff which agreed with that in the possession of the police as regards a body found on Portobello beach.
About half past six o’clock on the morning of 10 September the body of Sheriff Boyle Hope had been found on the beach opposite Esplanade Terrace, near Joppa, by a gentleman who had gone down for a bathe.
When the body was found it was very much swollen and the face and head had been slightly injured in consequence of, as was supposed, its being dashed against the rocks by the waves.
The deceased was dressed in a dark suit but his hat was missing. In his pockets, was money to the amount of 1s 3and a halfpence, a silver watch, a knife and a pair of eyeglasses. On one of his fingers was a gold ring bearing the inscription Augustus Hope 1857. The watch had stopped at two minutes past ten o’clock.
The detective proceeded to the law office where the deceased’s son was employed and there learned that the latter was on holiday in Kent. Later a gentleman from the law office in question went to Portobello and formally identified the deceased. At the request of Inspector Currie, Dr. John Balfour, Portobello, examined the body and gave the opinion that death had been caused by drowning.
On the morning of 9 September 1896 he breakfasted as usual about nine o’clock and remained at home until between one and two in the afternoon, when he went out seemingly in his usual state of health.
When the servants retired to rest he had not returned, but they did not feel at all uneasy on that account as their idea was that he would be in the company of his son, who had a law office in Edinburgh. To save him any inconvenince when he did come home, they lit the gas in his room. On entering the room in the morning they were much surprised to find the gas still burning, which at once convinced them that the Sheriff had not returned.
Some time thereafter a detective from the Midlothian County Police office called to make inquiries about their master, whereupon they began to suspect that something unusual had happened. At the request of the detective they gave a description of the Sheriff which agreed with that in the possession of the police as regards a body found on Portobello beach.
About half past six o’clock on the morning of 10 September the body of Sheriff Boyle Hope had been found on the beach opposite Esplanade Terrace, near Joppa, by a gentleman who had gone down for a bathe.
When the body was found it was very much swollen and the face and head had been slightly injured in consequence of, as was supposed, its being dashed against the rocks by the waves.
The deceased was dressed in a dark suit but his hat was missing. In his pockets, was money to the amount of 1s 3and a halfpence, a silver watch, a knife and a pair of eyeglasses. On one of his fingers was a gold ring bearing the inscription Augustus Hope 1857. The watch had stopped at two minutes past ten o’clock.
The detective proceeded to the law office where the deceased’s son was employed and there learned that the latter was on holiday in Kent. Later a gentleman from the law office in question went to Portobello and formally identified the deceased. At the request of Inspector Currie, Dr. John Balfour, Portobello, examined the body and gave the opinion that death had been caused by drowning.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The end of the 1890s saw a series of measures to try to improve the attractiveness of the beach.
In November 1896 a bill was brought before Parliament to improve and extend the Promenade and to create regulations for the upkeep of the beach. During the following month bylaws were introduced to prohibit houses or other buildings being erected closer than 25 feet to the centre of the Promenade.
In January 1898 the Burgh Engineer began a study into the feasibility of intercepting all of the sewage of the town and carrying it out in one main sewer to the sea.
A report was also commissioned into the likely cost of forming a harbour for yachts at Joppa rocks.
The Lord Provost's Committee looked at the desireableness of having wind shelters on the beach and of issuing licences for the sale of refreshments during the summer.
For the first time measures were put in hand for the regular cleaning of the sand and the removal of objectionable matter.
In November 1896 a bill was brought before Parliament to improve and extend the Promenade and to create regulations for the upkeep of the beach. During the following month bylaws were introduced to prohibit houses or other buildings being erected closer than 25 feet to the centre of the Promenade.
In January 1898 the Burgh Engineer began a study into the feasibility of intercepting all of the sewage of the town and carrying it out in one main sewer to the sea.
A report was also commissioned into the likely cost of forming a harbour for yachts at Joppa rocks.
The Lord Provost's Committee looked at the desireableness of having wind shelters on the beach and of issuing licences for the sale of refreshments during the summer.
For the first time measures were put in hand for the regular cleaning of the sand and the removal of objectionable matter.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Summer 1898 brought with it the good weather, the sunseekers and the Sabbath Alliance.
This time the object of their wrath was the fact that the Company were allowing a band to play on the pier on Sunday evenings. Not only was this in contravention of divine law, but the residents of Portobello were so disgusted by it that they avoided going near the pier on Sundays and many of them avoided it during the week as well.
The Company responded by releasing the turnstile receipts which showed that thousands of people attended the concerts every week.
But, as the Sabbath Alliance pointed out, how could they tell that they were Portobello folk?
This time the object of their wrath was the fact that the Company were allowing a band to play on the pier on Sunday evenings. Not only was this in contravention of divine law, but the residents of Portobello were so disgusted by it that they avoided going near the pier on Sundays and many of them avoided it during the week as well.
The Company responded by releasing the turnstile receipts which showed that thousands of people attended the concerts every week.
But, as the Sabbath Alliance pointed out, how could they tell that they were Portobello folk?
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The Burgh Engineer's report was released on 4 February 1899.
It recommended that the Promenade should be widened to create a carriage drive as well as a pedestrian Promenade along the entire sea frontage from Kings Road to the eastern boundary of Joppa Pans, and that the whole of the sewage presently discharging at various points along the beach be intercepted, carried eastwards beyond Portobello and discharged into the sea at Joppa.
This proposal involves the widening of the Promenade to the extent of fifty feet, the construction of a new sea wall, the making up of the interior of the Promenade and the surfacing and paving of the carriage way and pedestrian esplanade in a proper and durable manner.
The carriage way would naturally be formed on the inner or garden side of the Promenade, the pedestrian esplanade being formed next the sea beach.
To work the proposal required a carriage drive 25 feet wide and a pedestrian promenade also 25 feet wide would be required.
The cost of a scheme of this kind, which would involve the formation of a heavy concrete wall along the entire length from Kings Road to Joppa Pans, the paving of the carriageway with tar macadam and the pedestrian esplanade with cement concrete would amount to £40,000
The Burgh Engineer recognised that people might consider cost of such a scheme as prohibitive and out of all reason but considered that the widening of the Promenade to such an extent would completely remove all complaints as to the fouling of the bathing beach besides tending to increase the popularity of Portobello as a convenient recreation and health resort and bathing place and would overcome those vandalisms which have been perpetrated from time to time by encroaching on the Promenade with tall buildings.
The formation of the sewer would cost, exclusive of any mechanical power that may be required for raising the sewage, about £10,579. The pumping power required would cost about £2500 more.
As to a site and probable cost of a suitable harbour for yachts, the total cost of the works would be, including an extension of the Promenade, £30,000.
It recommended that the Promenade should be widened to create a carriage drive as well as a pedestrian Promenade along the entire sea frontage from Kings Road to the eastern boundary of Joppa Pans, and that the whole of the sewage presently discharging at various points along the beach be intercepted, carried eastwards beyond Portobello and discharged into the sea at Joppa.
This proposal involves the widening of the Promenade to the extent of fifty feet, the construction of a new sea wall, the making up of the interior of the Promenade and the surfacing and paving of the carriage way and pedestrian esplanade in a proper and durable manner.
The carriage way would naturally be formed on the inner or garden side of the Promenade, the pedestrian esplanade being formed next the sea beach.
To work the proposal required a carriage drive 25 feet wide and a pedestrian promenade also 25 feet wide would be required.
The cost of a scheme of this kind, which would involve the formation of a heavy concrete wall along the entire length from Kings Road to Joppa Pans, the paving of the carriageway with tar macadam and the pedestrian esplanade with cement concrete would amount to £40,000
The Burgh Engineer recognised that people might consider cost of such a scheme as prohibitive and out of all reason but considered that the widening of the Promenade to such an extent would completely remove all complaints as to the fouling of the bathing beach besides tending to increase the popularity of Portobello as a convenient recreation and health resort and bathing place and would overcome those vandalisms which have been perpetrated from time to time by encroaching on the Promenade with tall buildings.
The formation of the sewer would cost, exclusive of any mechanical power that may be required for raising the sewage, about £10,579. The pumping power required would cost about £2500 more.
As to a site and probable cost of a suitable harbour for yachts, the total cost of the works would be, including an extension of the Promenade, £30,000.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
Several children playing on Portobello beach on the morning of 6 June 1899 came across a curious collection of boots, shoes, joiners tools, opera glasses, nail brushes and a razor, together with numerous toothpicks and other miscellaneous articles.
The razor had been broken, presumably by whoever had used it to slash the boots, the opera class case and to cut the bristles off the nail brushes.
The Police took the articles into their possession and, judging by the name and address on some of the articles, concluded that a burglary had been committed in Glasgow.
The razor had been broken, presumably by whoever had used it to slash the boots, the opera class case and to cut the bristles off the nail brushes.
The Police took the articles into their possession and, judging by the name and address on some of the articles, concluded that a burglary had been committed in Glasgow.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The secong annual combined regatta of the Portobello and Eastern Amateur Rowing Clubs was held off Portobello Pier on 24 June 1899 under weather conditions which were in every way favourable, the bright warm sunshine being tempered by a cool south westerly breeze.
As a consequence lovers of aquatic sports turned out in thousands. The pier end was crowded with spectators. Large numbers witnessed the races from the sands and a flotilla of between fifty and sixty small boats hovered around the course.
The band of the Royal Scots Greys was stationed at the end of the pier and played selections of popular airs.
The programme included two and four oared races, 100 yards swimming heats, a handicapped race for yachts not exceeding 15 tons, an exhibition of graceful and ornamental swimming and a novelty race.
The regatta on the whole seemed likely to pass off with some degree of eclat when an incident occurred towards the close of the races which, although it fortunately was not attended with very serious consequences, threatened to mar the enjoyment of the thousands of spectators.
At the close of the yacht race and while several of the yachts were still cruising in the vicinity of the commodore's vessel, it was suddenly observed by several persons on board that a small boat which was lying about 200 yards off the end of the pier had been swamped and was rapidly sinking. The occupants, four in number, a gentleman, two ladies and a boy, were submerged and were clinging to the boat as best they could. Several persons on the commodore's boat shouted to a nearby yacht which at once tacked and swept round to the rescue, followed by several of the shore boats. As the yacht swept past the scene of the accident the boat sank and the four former occupants were left struggling in the water. One of the crew of the yacht at once dived to their assistance and several boats being by this time at hand, all four of the submerged persons were fortunately rescued and not too soon, for they were almost exhausted. One of them, a lady, had somehow got under the boat and had a narrow escape. She was rowed to the commodore's boat where she was attended to and provided with dry clothing and was afterwards able to proceed home. The others were rowed ashore and soon recovered from the effects of their immersion.
In consequence of the accident, one or two minor events at the end of the programme were postponed. At the close of the regatta the prizes were presented to the successful competitors from the concert platform at the end of the pier.
As well as the entertainments on the pier, travelling shows used to visit Portobello regularly during the summer season. The show people used to pitch their tents on Harbour Green, next to the Figgate burn.
On 1 August 1899 a young man, Bernard Greenan, who was a bottle worker living at 11 Pipe Street Lane, pleaded guilty to stealing from a tent at the Harbour Green. He had made off with 3 lb of mutton, 1 lb of lard, 100 cigars, a box of cigarettes and two packets of vestas, in total valued at 13s. He was fined £2 with the option of thirty days imprisonment.
At the same police court the following month three Fisherrow fishwives were charged with selling mussels on Portobello beach without authority from the Edinburgh magistrates.
They pleaded guilty but at the same time handed the magistrate a letter from a solicitor in Musselburgh which stated that he had had an interview with the Depute City Clerk and the Chief Constable in regard to selling shellfish on the Portobello sands and, as a result of that, he was glad to tell them that they could go on selling as before and they would not be interfered with. However, they had to understand that there was to be no stall or other erection fixed upon the sands and that they must move about among the crowd. Further, they must not allow any shells, paper or other articles to fall on the sands.
Bailie Brand said that it was a misleading letter and had evidently been acted upon. Inspector Currie said that he had no knowledge of the letter. In view of the fishwives having acted in good faith, believing the contents of the letter to be corrrect, Bailie Brand dismissed them with an admonition.
An Edinburgh ice cream seller, however, was fined 7s 6d for hawking ice cream on the beach after he had been warned several times not to do so.
As a consequence lovers of aquatic sports turned out in thousands. The pier end was crowded with spectators. Large numbers witnessed the races from the sands and a flotilla of between fifty and sixty small boats hovered around the course.
The band of the Royal Scots Greys was stationed at the end of the pier and played selections of popular airs.
The programme included two and four oared races, 100 yards swimming heats, a handicapped race for yachts not exceeding 15 tons, an exhibition of graceful and ornamental swimming and a novelty race.
The regatta on the whole seemed likely to pass off with some degree of eclat when an incident occurred towards the close of the races which, although it fortunately was not attended with very serious consequences, threatened to mar the enjoyment of the thousands of spectators.
At the close of the yacht race and while several of the yachts were still cruising in the vicinity of the commodore's vessel, it was suddenly observed by several persons on board that a small boat which was lying about 200 yards off the end of the pier had been swamped and was rapidly sinking. The occupants, four in number, a gentleman, two ladies and a boy, were submerged and were clinging to the boat as best they could. Several persons on the commodore's boat shouted to a nearby yacht which at once tacked and swept round to the rescue, followed by several of the shore boats. As the yacht swept past the scene of the accident the boat sank and the four former occupants were left struggling in the water. One of the crew of the yacht at once dived to their assistance and several boats being by this time at hand, all four of the submerged persons were fortunately rescued and not too soon, for they were almost exhausted. One of them, a lady, had somehow got under the boat and had a narrow escape. She was rowed to the commodore's boat where she was attended to and provided with dry clothing and was afterwards able to proceed home. The others were rowed ashore and soon recovered from the effects of their immersion.
In consequence of the accident, one or two minor events at the end of the programme were postponed. At the close of the regatta the prizes were presented to the successful competitors from the concert platform at the end of the pier.
As well as the entertainments on the pier, travelling shows used to visit Portobello regularly during the summer season. The show people used to pitch their tents on Harbour Green, next to the Figgate burn.
On 1 August 1899 a young man, Bernard Greenan, who was a bottle worker living at 11 Pipe Street Lane, pleaded guilty to stealing from a tent at the Harbour Green. He had made off with 3 lb of mutton, 1 lb of lard, 100 cigars, a box of cigarettes and two packets of vestas, in total valued at 13s. He was fined £2 with the option of thirty days imprisonment.
At the same police court the following month three Fisherrow fishwives were charged with selling mussels on Portobello beach without authority from the Edinburgh magistrates.
They pleaded guilty but at the same time handed the magistrate a letter from a solicitor in Musselburgh which stated that he had had an interview with the Depute City Clerk and the Chief Constable in regard to selling shellfish on the Portobello sands and, as a result of that, he was glad to tell them that they could go on selling as before and they would not be interfered with. However, they had to understand that there was to be no stall or other erection fixed upon the sands and that they must move about among the crowd. Further, they must not allow any shells, paper or other articles to fall on the sands.
Bailie Brand said that it was a misleading letter and had evidently been acted upon. Inspector Currie said that he had no knowledge of the letter. In view of the fishwives having acted in good faith, believing the contents of the letter to be corrrect, Bailie Brand dismissed them with an admonition.
An Edinburgh ice cream seller, however, was fined 7s 6d for hawking ice cream on the beach after he had been warned several times not to do so.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
In February 1901 the Burgh Engineer was instructed to prepare a report to extend the Promenade from Kings Road to Seafield.
It was considered that, with the sweeping away of all the irrigation works between Edinburgh and the sea and with the foreshore as a continuation of the Portobello Promenade up to the Leith boundary, an ideal seaside resort would be provided for the city.
The centre portion of the extension to the Promenade might very suitably be reserved for pleasure grounds.
It was anticipated the in the course of time this must become one of the most attractive drives on the shores of the Firth of Forth, having the advantage of being open to the sea in a manner not achievable anywhere else between Portobello and South Queensferry.
On 3 July the Lord Provost’s Committee accepted an estimate amounting to £2936 6s 3d for the work to extend the Promenade to Seafield.
However, by 12 votes to 3 they rejected a proposal to erect a bandstand on Portobello Promenade.
It was considered that, with the sweeping away of all the irrigation works between Edinburgh and the sea and with the foreshore as a continuation of the Portobello Promenade up to the Leith boundary, an ideal seaside resort would be provided for the city.
The centre portion of the extension to the Promenade might very suitably be reserved for pleasure grounds.
It was anticipated the in the course of time this must become one of the most attractive drives on the shores of the Firth of Forth, having the advantage of being open to the sea in a manner not achievable anywhere else between Portobello and South Queensferry.
On 3 July the Lord Provost’s Committee accepted an estimate amounting to £2936 6s 3d for the work to extend the Promenade to Seafield.
However, by 12 votes to 3 they rejected a proposal to erect a bandstand on Portobello Promenade.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
The 13 and 14 November 1901 saw fierce storms along the east coast.
At Portobello a magnificent spectacle was afforded to sightseers at various points along the shore when at high tide the waves of the Firth were rolling majestically along the shore. Waves and spray encroached on Portobello Promenade. At Portobello pier heavy seas washed clean over the jetty.
Some of the wooden buildings on Portobello pier below deck level were carried away and the wreckage was swept ashore near the mouth of the Figgate burn. The roof of the Eastern Amateur Rowing Club’s boat house was partially destroyed. A small private astronomical observatory near the Promenade had its windows blown in. About a score of seats on the Promenade were smashed by the waves and several were swept to the beach. Various portions of the surface of the Promenade were scooped out by the sea. Great portions of the high bank which fronted the sea between Joppa and Magdalene Bridge were eaten out.
At Portobello a magnificent spectacle was afforded to sightseers at various points along the shore when at high tide the waves of the Firth were rolling majestically along the shore. Waves and spray encroached on Portobello Promenade. At Portobello pier heavy seas washed clean over the jetty.
Some of the wooden buildings on Portobello pier below deck level were carried away and the wreckage was swept ashore near the mouth of the Figgate burn. The roof of the Eastern Amateur Rowing Club’s boat house was partially destroyed. A small private astronomical observatory near the Promenade had its windows blown in. About a score of seats on the Promenade were smashed by the waves and several were swept to the beach. Various portions of the surface of the Promenade were scooped out by the sea. Great portions of the high bank which fronted the sea between Joppa and Magdalene Bridge were eaten out.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
June 1902 saw changes at the foot of Bath Street.
Large modern shops were being built to suit tenants or purchasers. Each property consisted of a front shop with two rooms behind. The selling point was their excellent situation on the Promenade.
The extension of the Promenade to Seafield proved more costly than originally thought. The land was in the ownership of Mr. Christie Murray of Craigentinny and he did not give it up lightly. He originally claimed £2,000 in compensation, but the Valuer thought it was worth more than that and the Council had to give him £3,000.
Mr. Wood, who owned the land immediately adjacent to the Figgate Burn, accepted £100 in full compensation of his claim on condition that a slip be made at the west end of his property and a short street made as an access to it along the side of the burn.
Large modern shops were being built to suit tenants or purchasers. Each property consisted of a front shop with two rooms behind. The selling point was their excellent situation on the Promenade.
The extension of the Promenade to Seafield proved more costly than originally thought. The land was in the ownership of Mr. Christie Murray of Craigentinny and he did not give it up lightly. He originally claimed £2,000 in compensation, but the Valuer thought it was worth more than that and the Council had to give him £3,000.
Mr. Wood, who owned the land immediately adjacent to the Figgate Burn, accepted £100 in full compensation of his claim on condition that a slip be made at the west end of his property and a short street made as an access to it along the side of the burn.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
As late as 1903, the regiments were still parading down to the beach from Piershill barracks and exercising on the sands.
On 14 February that year some fifty troopers of the 17th Lancers were engaged in drill practice when one of their number named Trooper James Stoker, detached himself from the ranks and rode his horse about in such an erratic and irresponsible way that it was obvious his judgement had become affected.
The other troopers closed round and with difficulty unhorsed the unfortunate soldier.
So violent did he become that he had to be bound with horses reins. Afterwards the police removed him to the barracks in an ambulance where it was found he was suffering from a fit of epilepsy.
On 14 February that year some fifty troopers of the 17th Lancers were engaged in drill practice when one of their number named Trooper James Stoker, detached himself from the ranks and rode his horse about in such an erratic and irresponsible way that it was obvious his judgement had become affected.
The other troopers closed round and with difficulty unhorsed the unfortunate soldier.
So violent did he become that he had to be bound with horses reins. Afterwards the police removed him to the barracks in an ambulance where it was found he was suffering from a fit of epilepsy.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
On the evening of 6 March 1903 a young woman, fairly well dressed and who was much under the influence of drink, rushed into the sea near the pier and falling, disappeared in the water.
She was brought ashore, by bystanders, who prevented her from again rushing into the water.
She managed, however, to tear off the greater part of her clothing and she had to be tied into a hand ambulance and taken to the police office.
She was brought ashore, by bystanders, who prevented her from again rushing into the water.
She managed, however, to tear off the greater part of her clothing and she had to be tied into a hand ambulance and taken to the police office.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
On Portobello Pier, on 8 July 1903, in the presence of over 700 persons a walking contest for three prizes offered by the manager was held.
The walk was twice the length of the pier, about 730 yards.
The contest was won by George Gibson by two yards in 3 mins 18 and one third secs.
The walk was twice the length of the pier, about 730 yards.
The contest was won by George Gibson by two yards in 3 mins 18 and one third secs.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.
In almost a repeat of the incident of the previous year, while a party of the 17th Lancers were taking part in certain exercises on Portobello beach on 19 April 1904, one of their number, Trooper Stocking of A Squadron, bolted off on horseback in the direction of Edinburgh.
Some of his comrades gave chase and caught up with him in Montrose Terrace.
Stocking, however, evaded his pursuers by proceeding along Regent Road at a fast pace. He was closely followed for a distance but as he was better mounted he was ultimately able to leave the others behind and escape.
An officer and a few troopers proceeded to pursue him through the City. He headed off along Queensferry Road. On arriving at Cramond Bridge the officer warned the authorities at Queensferry. In the Kirliston Road two policemen observed the Lancer in the midst of a number of people towards whom he was brandishing a weapon.
Stocking was afterwards taken back to Edinburgh in a cab and detained in the Royal Infirmary for medical examination.
Some of his comrades gave chase and caught up with him in Montrose Terrace.
Stocking, however, evaded his pursuers by proceeding along Regent Road at a fast pace. He was closely followed for a distance but as he was better mounted he was ultimately able to leave the others behind and escape.
An officer and a few troopers proceeded to pursue him through the City. He headed off along Queensferry Road. On arriving at Cramond Bridge the officer warned the authorities at Queensferry. In the Kirliston Road two policemen observed the Lancer in the midst of a number of people towards whom he was brandishing a weapon.
Stocking was afterwards taken back to Edinburgh in a cab and detained in the Royal Infirmary for medical examination.
I have nothing to say and I'm going to say it.