On 18 August 1874 a marriage took place at Largo House between Robert Rintoul and Margaret Jack Jeffrey. Robert was the Glasgow-born proprietor of Lahill House (pictured above) and Margaret the daughter of John Jeffrey the Kirkcaldy linen manufacturer. The Jeffreys had taken the tenancy of Largo House in 1872 and had become well-known in the Largo area. After their marriage, Robert and Margaret settled at Lahill and in 1878 their daughter Leonora Jeffrey Rintoul was born. She would go on to become a pioneering ornithologist along with her great friend Evelyn Baxter. Two years later, on 30 March 1880, another daughter, Jane Helen (known as Jean) was born at Lahill. 

The 1881 census recorded the household at Lahill Mansion House. Robert was described as a "Proprietor farming 726 acres of which 706 are arable, employing 15 men, 14 women and 2 boys". In addition to Robert, Margaret and their two young daughters, the household included a cook, house maid, table maid and nurse. There was also a visitor - cousin of Margaret, Charles Maxton, a linen manufacturer. Other staff were living in the Lahill Coachman's House and Lodge House. Two years later, in 1883, a son was born - Andrew Jeffrey Rintoul. Robert Rintoul (who had been the very first Captain of Lundin Golf Club when it was first founded in 1868, having learned golf on Dubbieside links) died on 26 January 1887 just before his son's fourth birthday. 
​

Growing up Leonora and Jean were educated privately and had the opportunity to travel on the continent. At home, they were often mentioned in the papers as "the Misses Rintoul" when attending social occasions. Jean also featured in newspaper reports for her pianoforte solos and theatrical performances. On example above is from the 29 June 1899 Leven Advertiser in relation to a fund-raising event in Kirkcaldy. Perhaps it was at such an event that Jean met her future husband.

On 4 August 1910, Jean married Captain Thomas Kershaw Gaskell of the 89th Punjabis at Upper Largo Parish Church. She was 30 years old and he was 39. Reverend Duncan Macmichael and Reverend James Robert Burt (Macmichael's predecessor) officiated. Sister Leonora was a witness. The 6 August Fifeshire Advertiser described the wedding as "fully choral" and noted that there was "a large and fashionable assemblage" at this "pretty wedding".

Thomas Kershaw Gaskell was born on 1 October 1870 in Portsea, Portsmouth, one of 8 children. His father, also Thomas, was in the army and this required the family to move frequently, including a spell in Cupar in the late 1870s when young Thomas was still a boy. So he had a connection to Fife from an early age. Thomas junior served as Lieutenant in the Suffolk Artillery Militia from 1890 and was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Royal Fusiliers on 19 October 1892. He was promoted Lieutenant in the Indian Staff Corps on 12 January 1896, whilst serving with the 29th Burma Infantry. He was made a Captain with the 89th Punjabis on 19 October 1901. He was still a Captain at the time of his marriage.

Now widowed, Jean continued her active life in the Largo community and beyond. The newspaper archives record her opening fetes, hosting social events, assisting in the Girls Guildry, being involved in church events, presiding over the East of Fife group of the W.R.I., being part of the wartime work parties making provisions for the troops, acting on the Kirkton of Largo school management committee and continuing to entertain by playing the piano. In some of these endeavours she was joined by her sister Leonora Rintoul and friend Evelyn Baxter, both of whom were also extremely prominent in the W.R.I..

Another of Jean's interests was the newly-created Scotland's Gardens Scheme (a scheme which continues today). She acted as organiser of the scheme for Fife in 1930s and 1940s. Gardens were opened to the public in order to raise money for the Nursing Association.  Jean was able to arrange for gardens at houses such as Lahill, Strathairly and Cambo to be open to visitors. The notice below from the 10 April 1937 St Andrews Citizen notes an opening of the Lahill gardens - often timed to show the daffodils at their best each year.

In 1940, Jean bought Grove Cottage in Upper Largo, which was adjacent to both her sister's home, Balsusney, and the home of Evelyn Baxter, The Grove. The three properties can be seen in the map below. 
​

In February 1943 Jean Gaskell was co-opted as a member for Largo and Newburn of the Anstruther District Council. The same year she was Secretary of the Wings for Victory committee for Largo. A few years later she funded the building of a hut within the grounds of the manse at Newburn Church to be used as a community hall. Groups using the hall included the Newburn Women's Guild and the Newburn Men's Club. 

In the weeks immediately prior to her death she conducted the opening ceremony of the Robinson Crusoe Social Club's Sale of Work in the Club House at Mill Wynd (see 11 Feb 1948 notice below from Leven Advertiser). She also attended a meeting of the local housing committee and made a recommendation which resulted in the naming of Durham Crescent (see 10 January 1948 Courier below). The Housing Supervisor had suggested the name Crusoe Crescent but Mrs Gaskell thought the Crusoe name was already overused and made her alternative suggestion.

When Jean Gaskell died on 27 March 1948 at St Margaret's  just days before her 68th birthday, the official record of her death described her as a 'housewife' but there was so much more to this talented, independent, community-spirited lady. Aside from the pursuits mentioned above, there were no doubt many other strands to her activities. Unfortunately, I have been unable to unearth a photograph of Mrs Gaskell so far - if anyone has a photo of her, please do get in touch.

The previous post looked at Largo Cricket Club's four-and-a-bit season run from 1949 to 1953. After that time the club went into abeyance for three decades before being revived in 1983. It was Yorkshireman, Peter Norton, who was living in Largo, that played a pivotal role in the resurrection of the club, along with a number of keen locals. Initially, games were played at Silverburn on the outskirts of Leven (where apparently donkey droppings had to be cleared from the grass before play). Some play also took place at Waid Academy in Anstruther. However, after three years, the club made a return to their Upper Largo playing field at East Drive (pictured above).

The 10 May 1986 Courier piece below tells of the inaugural game at the ground, which was due to take place the following day. The article noted that the return to the home ground had been made possible through a combination of the efforts of local people, funding from North East Fife District Council and the agreement of land owner Charles Makgill Crichton. The opening gala day saw Largo play against "Fife's most famous cricketers" Freuchie Cricket Club. Just the year before, in 1985, the Freuchie side had risen to fame by winning the National Village Championship at Lord's, with a victory against a side from Surrey.

Around 500 people attended this special occasion but unfortunately the Largo team went down by 135 runs to 66 against the National Village Champions. This was in spite of a guest appearance for Largo by Mike Denness the former England and Kent cricket captain. Denness was, and remains, the only England captain to have been born in Scotland. Scotland did not have an international team at the time of his career.

Freuchie's George Wilson was man of the match. President of Largo C.C. Andrew Duncan was delighted that such a high profile opening match could be arranged at the new ground. There was a "carnival atmosphere" with side shows, beer tent, teas and coffees. Since that day many visiting clubs have enjoyed the hospitality and picturesque surroundings of the East Drive ground. ​The Largo club's second period in existence continues its almost 40 year unbroken run to this day. You can read more about recent club history here and on the club's website: www.largocc.org.uk/. Long may the club's second run continue.....
​

Largo Cricket Club has been active in two distinct phases. It first existed for a few years shortly after the Second World War. Reformed in 1983, the club's second phase continues to the present day. More than seven decades ago, the 12 January 1949 Leven Mail announced that in Largo a "band of enthusiasts" had started a cricket club and had "acquired a suitable field for play near the Church". On 2 February, the same paper told of the club's "first public appearance" when they hosted a whist drive. This event took place on 20 January 1949 in the Simpson Institute and was attended by 130 people. The Club's Honorary Secretary George N. Donaldson presided and Mrs Muriset of the Lundin Links Hotel presented the prizes. Club President, and minister of Largo Parish Church, Reverend C.W. Fraser thanked Mrs Muriset and all those who had helped to make the occasion a success. 
​

The first season included a match against R.A.F. Leuchars in August 1949. The same month a fund-raising dance was held in the Simpson Institute (see notice below). On 12 October 1949, the Leven Mail reported on a "successful first season" which had consisted of six wins, eleven losses and eight draws. Leading averages for the season were listed (see below).
​

The fixtures for the club's second season were listed in the 8 February 1950 Leven Mail (see below). A fund-raiser that year was a Grand Fete at Lundin Links Common followed by another dance at the Simpson Institute (the 19 July 1950 notice from the Leven Mail is further below). At that point, everything seems to have been going well for the fledgling club.

The third season, which began in April 1951, saw a new Honorary Secretary take over. This was Harry Williams of Jesmond House, Upper Largo. Below is a list of the fixtures lined up for that year. Social events that year included a November concert in Simpson Institute and Ne'er Day dance to see in 1952. The year that followed would bring change for the club. Perhaps those involved already had an inkling of what was to come, given that the roof had just been removed from Largo House and the contents of the mansion put up for auction.

The fourth season began positively.  On 16 April 1952 the Leven Mail reported on the club's A.G.M. where Reverend Fraser emphasised that "the club was now firmly established and had built up a good reputation, not merely in the district but also among the many clubs they had visited outside the area". Below are more details from that meeting where the officials for the year were elected. A highlight of the season was a friendly match in June 1952 against H.M.S. Largo Bay (an anti-aircraft frigate of the British Royal Navy). At this point the team were still playing at The Paddock.

However, by the end of the 1952 season Largo Cricket Club had (according to the 5 November 1952 Leven Mail) applied to Leven Town Council to use one of the cricket squares at King George V Playfield in Leven. This was granted and the club became Leven-based having lost their ground at The Paddock. Details surrounding the move are unclear, however, it seems likely to be connected to the demise of Largo House and local feeling around that. The move to Leven must have been inconvenient and disappointing for the club. The local press also noted concern around the lack of "stripping accommodation" and facilities to entertain visitors at King George V Park. 

So, Largo C.C. began their fifth season, sharing a ground in Leven with Henry Balfour Cricket Club. The season got underway and early matches were played, however, by June it was clear that the club were struggling with their new circumstances. The 1 July Leven Mail noted that "circumstances have compelled Largo C.C. to disband for what it hoped will be a temporary period". It was suggested that any unattached cricketers would be welcomed by Balfour's Club. The situation was confirmed two weeks later when the notice below appeared in the Mail. Sadly, the "temporary period" would last for thirty years but eventually Largo Cricket Club did rise again. More on that in the next post.
​

Two centuries ago, a hoard of silver was discovered at Norrie's Law - a cairn on the northern edge of the farm of Bonnyton within the Largo estate, close to the boundary with Teasses estate. The find is now known to be one of the largest hoards of Pictish silver ever to be found and has been dated to 500-600 A.D.. Unfortunately, back in circa 1819 the unnamed person who unearthed the finds was an unscrupulous individual who, rather than report the find to the appropriate authorities, sold the silver to an intermediary allegedly named Forbes who sold the pieces on to silversmiths. The objects, reportedly including a full suit of scale-armour, a shield, a helmet and a sword handle were melted down and recycled by the purchasers. Thus important historical artefacts, and the knowledge that they could have unlocked, were forever lost. 

Word of the event eventually reached land owner General James Durham of Largo House. He had the site rechecked and further silver items were recovered, having escaped the notice of the original finder. Although General Durham had succeeded in preserving an important subset of the hoard, a mix of intact objects and hacksilver (fragments for recycling), he did not immediately share the news of his discovery. It was not until around two decades later that a man named George Buist brought the story into the public domain. Buist was a journalist and keen antiquarian. While researching sculptured stones, he heard of a stone recently rediscovered by General Durham (now known as the Largo Pictish Stone). While learning about the rediscovered stone at Largo House, Durham presumably told Buist about the silver.
​

So with General Durham deceased and Buist in India (where, aside from a couple of brief return visits to Scotland, he would live out the rest of his life), investigations into the hoard were discontinued. The surviving silver remained in the possession of the Durham family. In 1856 Mrs Dundas Durham sent the relics to an exhibition of antiquities and in 1864 she gifted part of the collection to the National Museum of Antiquaries of Scotland in Edinburgh. The remainder of the silver was donated to the same museum in 1883, following her death.

For over a century the 170-piece silver collection was assumed to be one cohesive group of medieval artefacts. The additional items 'rescued' by Buist's efforts in 1838-39 were treated as a genuine part of the hoard. However, in recent years the objects and their origins have been re-examined as part of the Glenmorangie Research Project on Early Medieval Scotland. Project findings have thrown up a surprise and cast doubt over the authenticity of a couple of the key objects. The writings of George Buist have played a key part in unravelling the truth.

The inaugural show of the East of Fife Chrysanthemum Society was held in Upper Largo's Simpson Institute on 24th November 1892. The notice below from the 11 November East of Fife Record heralded the event as "something new in East Fife". With its focus on late season produce, and its independence from existing horticultural societies, the display was hailed as "a most welcome new departure at this season of the year and doubly so when it relies for its attractiveness mainly upon the chaste chrysanthemum".

Turning the Simpson Institute into a haven of colour on a grey November day, large tables of pot plants including ferns and palms, were brought from Gilston and Lahill Houses (homes of the Baxter and Rintoul families). The feature of the day was of course the chrysanthemum display but there were also other plants, fruit and vegetables on show, plus a small handicrafts section. Society Secretary, William Short, head gardener at Lahill, was instrumental in the creation of the show. Originally from Dorset, his connections there resulted in cider apples and a flowers making the journey from the gardens of Lord Wimbourne of Canford Manor in Dorset. These flowers were described as "very fine albeit their long railway journey had told somewhat against their appearance". Several prizes were contested for at the inaugural show and local entries came from John Watson of Eden Cottage, William Laing of Church Place and Robert Smith of Largo Place, among others.

The duty of opening the exhibition fell to Mr Gilmour of Montrave, honorary president of the society, who was accompanied on the platform by president Dr Stuart Palm. The former generated laughter when he remarked that he thought flowers were much better at opening themselves than in trying to have anyone do it for them. He supported the decision to start up such a society and hailed the chrysanthemum's ability to brighten the shortening days. Music was provided by Mr Adamson's string band from Leven - a "pleasant change from brass".

The show returned the following year and the Simpson Institute again provided the venue in the "stormy month of chill November". This time the show was opened by Mr J.H. Baxter of Teasses. The third show in 1894 had a change of venue, taking place in Anstruther Town Hall. The show date and schedule of competition classes were advertised many months in advance, as the 13 April 1894 East of Fife Record notice below shows. William Short was the key point of contact for the schedule.
​

The fourth show took place in Leven Town Hall in 1895 and saw entries larger than any previous year. The following year saw a return to the Simpson Institute. The committee at this time included chemist Andrew Hogg (president), William Short (Secretary) and John Watson of Upper Largo's Eden Cottage (Treasurer). By now there was a cup (for the best 24 Chrysanthemums) and a silver medal (for the best 12 Japanese blooms) among the prizes, which also included many valuable money prizes. Unfortunately in 1896 the "climatic conditions were not of the first order" and this fifth show was hampered by "the muddy state of the roads" which "prevented those in the outlying districts from being present in such numbers as would otherwise have been the case". ​Nevertheless the centre table was "literally a blaze of rainbow hues, radiating from the phenomenally large chrysanthemum blooms".

The sixth show was held in Anstruther Town Hall in 1897 and the seventh in Leven Town Hall in 1898. On the latter occasion, the newly knighted Sir John Gilmour commented on how he preferred opening this type of event to a bazaar with its "tea cosies and carpet slippers". He also noted that he believed there to be 100,000 Chrysanthemum Societies in the country now. The eighth event in 1899 came home to the Simpson Institute (see notice below from Leven Advertiser) before visiting Leven Town Hall once more in 1900, where the display provided "a magnificent scenic effect as viewed from the gallery".

The Leven Advertiser commented that the Society had "grown from the friendly rivalry of a few Largo cultivators to quite a county organisation" able to send competitors to the national shows at Edinburgh and Dundee. The opening speech by Dr Durward included facts such as that chrysanthemums had been introduced to Britain a century ago, that they originally came from Japan and that the name meant 'golden flower'. Both John and James Brown received a mention in the newspaper reports on exhibits, as did Robert Smith of Largo Place, who was in the unique position of having won a particular category every year since the show was instituted - namely potatoes.

In 1901, a new venue hosted the event - Beveridge Hall in Kirkcaldy. The following year, the tenth anniversary year, the show was held in Leven (Kirkcaldy growers having been inspired to set up their own society by that time). Captain Gilmour opened the show. That year (1902) was considered to be one of the worst summers ever, providing a challenge to the growers. In 1903, the display returned to Largo once again, with Dr Stuart Palm presiding at the opening ceremony. It was noted in the local press that the Simpson Institute proved quite small for the large number of entries. Thus in 1904 the venue switched to the Co-operative Hall in Methil - the larger hall "showing the blooms to great advantage".

The 1905 show took place in Leven Town Hall and the 1906 one in the Free Gardener's Hall, Buckhaven. The Simpson Institute hosted in 1907 (following a smaller display the previous year). As the notice below from 6 November Leven Advertiser shows, this was presided over by Robert Paxton (who was yet to move into Homelands and resided at the time at Elphinstone). George Lumsden of Aithernie House (now the Old Manor Hotel) performed the opening ceremony. The entries overflowed from the main hall into the entrance and an awning was formed outside from the door to the gate, where the vegetables were laid out.  Lumsden used his speech to inform the crowd that the chrysanthemum was not in fact the national flower of Japan as many thought but that the cherry blossom was. The blue ribbon of the show was won by William Short of Lahill and the prize for best twelve blooms by local John Watson.
​

It was back to Leven Town Hall in 1908. This time one of the founders of the society was absent. John Watson, of Eden Cottage a stalwart of the show since its inception, had passed away in June that year. However, his widow continued to contribute and made the prize list on this occasion. By now, it would appear that all agreed that Leven Town Hall was the ideal venue for the show and it became the permanent home of the event. In 1909 Major Shepherd gave the opening speech and called for the provision of gardening plots for miners. He noted that these men may not have a garden of their own and ought to have the option of following the outdoor pursuit of gardening. He hoped that in a few years time this would come to fruition and that men of the mining communities would have prize winning entries at the show.

In 1910, a female opened the show for the first time - Lady Eva Wemyss of Wemyss Castle. The 16 November Leven Advertiser commented that, although "cradled in Largo", Leven was the most popular venue for the show. Major Shepherd introduced Lady Wemyss and commented on her great achievement in the creation of the Randolph Wemyss Memorial Hospital. Now a new tradition had begun with a lady performing the opening ceremony and in 1911 Miss Leonora Rintoul of Lahill did the honours. Miss Rintoul was already a well-known ornithologist by this time. The 16 November Leven Advertiser extract below recalls her introduction by Provost Balfour.
​

The 1912 show was opened by Mrs Sprot and the 1913 event by Mrs Shepherd. A date was set for the 1914 display, however, the onset of World War One saw this, like many other events, cancelled. The concise notice above from the 17 September 1914 Leven Advertiser informed the public of this. Life changed in many ways over the years that followed and the East of Fife Chrysanthemum Society was never re-established, in spite of pleas such as the one below from a reader of the Leven Advertiser on 18 January 1923.
​

​Previous posts have looked at the origins of the Largo Parish Community Council and their early work on foreshore improvements around Massney Braes. Another of their endeavours was the production of a handy guide to Lundin Links and Largo for visitors. A guide book was produced each year from 1932 for at least six years and an example of this is shown above. The man responsible for compiling the guide was James Peebles Greig, a member of the LPCC.
​

​James Peebles Greig was born in Duke Street, Leith on 3 April 1881, the son of gas works blacksmith George Greig who was born in Lundin Mill in 1850. James became a clerk in the Leith Town Chamberlain's Office, later marrying Jean Donaldson in Milnathort in 1910. He went on to become Town Chamberlain of Montrose between 1922 and 1930, before moving to Lundin Links, to 'take up a business opportunity'. This opportunity was to run Mount Vernon Boarding House, which was owned by his sister Agnes Peebles Watters (nee Greig).

Agnes had been widowed in tragic circumstances in 1923 but had continued to run Mount Vernon. In 1930 she took on Victoria Boarding House as well and so James and family took the helm at Mount Vernon. They remained there up until the outbreak of the Second World War. After that James worked in the Costs Office at Leven Foundry as an accountant. He was very active in various aspects of local life in Largo, including Lundin Golf Club, Largo Silver Band and of course Largo Parish Community Council. Moving from Lundin Links to Upper Largo in 1947, James Greig died on 6 September 1953 at Dunedin, 38 Main Street, Upper Largo. He was survived by his wife, a son and two daughters.

James was the natural choice for co-ordinator of the Largo Guide. With his clerical background and later interest in tourism and hospitality, he had the skills and connections to compile the content of adverts, information and a bit of flowery language to entice visitors to the 'Scottish Riviera'. The first guide went on sale in March 1932.  Printed by J. and G. Innes Ltd, Cupar, the booklet had a reproduction of Alexander Selkirk's statue on the cover and copies could be had free on application to the LPCC Secretary, Mr Charles Raeburn. The 22 March Leven Advertiser commented that "the explanatory material is both interesting and informative, while the illustrations are well produced."

Almost 1,000 copies of this first edition were distributed and £48 was raised from the advertising within the guide. Seen as a successful venture, a revised edition was produced in 1933. That year 128 copies were sent out to people that had written to the LPCC, a further 725 were distributed through the L.N.E.R railway enquiry office, 56 copies through libraries and 72 copies were sold in local shops. The Guide became an annual publication, however, by the end of the 1936 season concerns began to be raised about the decrease in income from advertising. On balance is was decided to proceed with a 1937 edition and also to place adverts in two Civil Service journals to entice civil servants to spend their holidays in Largo.

However, this may have been the final year of publication, as there were no further references to the guide book. It was also noted that repetition of the same information each year, as well as reliance upon the same people to place adverts each time, was becoming problematic. Although a local guide in this format had run its course, guide booklets for visitors continued to be produced on and off over the years in a number of different styles.

​
The 18 October 1932 Leven Advertiser ran the headline above when reporting on the first A.G.M of the Largo Parish Community Council. One of the first priorities of the newly-formed community council was to make "foreshore improvements" at Lundin Links. While this stretch of coast already "enjoyed a remarkable measure of popularity", it was thought that there was "nothing to be gained by standing still" and that they ought to "launch out with a progressive scheme to foster the popularity".

Significantly, estate owner Sir John Gilmour had "shown both generosity and foresight in entrusting the Community Council with the development of the beach". The area in question was between Lundin Links Golf House and Mr Walter Horne's feu, (old pan house) south of the railway line. The aim was "to improve its amenity and hold it as a public recreation and pleasure ground". This was not to be a money making exercise but rather the right to sell refreshments would enable the costs of cleaning and maintenance of any new facilities to be covered. 

The pre-1930s postcard view above was taken on the beach at Lundin Links in front of Massney Braes, looking towards Drummochy and beyond. The flat-roofed Crusoe Hotel can be seen to the right. In the centre (under the words Lundin Links) is the old salt pan house (later joiner's workshop). The sand dune and grassy brae on the left had yet to under go the improvements that the LPCC would carry out. The map below shows the approximate position from which the image was captured. Being a later date, the map shows the shelter built on the braes and the public toilets built at the top of the path going up to Drummochy Road past the pan house.

An early foreshore improvement was to make a proper path alongside the railway at the top of the area. The 17 October 1933 Leven Advertiser piece below tells us that this extended from the 'Creaky Gate' (also referred to as 'Squeaky Gate') at the point where the road crossed the railway at the top of Drummochy Road to the Iron Bridge. Work to stabilise the sand dunes by planting grass also took place. Above is the 27 June 1933 notice to contractors that appeared in the Leven Advertiser in relation to the work.

In addition to the path improvements, other early successes included renting out pitches to vendors selling refreshments such as ice-cream and lemonade and the erection of a shelter (built to a design by Charles Raeburn the LPCC's Secretary and Treasurer). Over time, a water supply and drinking fountain was also installed along with seats, litter baskets, a place for setting fires and noticeboards. The image below shows some of these facilities in place. The Largo Silver Band were allowed to continue to play at the site were they had long performed, being seen as an additional attraction. 

The days of shelters, toilets, play equipment and ice cream vans at Massney Braes may have now gone but this remains a place where people can enjoy walking, sitting, accessing the beach and enjoying the views. Now a bit less managed and a bit more wild, rabbits, wildflowers and butterflies are among the wildlife making use of the space.

In 1894 the Parish Councils Act established new local elected bodies designed to give communities more of a voice. These Parish Councils replaced the Parochial Boards that had been in existence for half a century beforehand. However, by 1930, Parish Councils themselves were abolished under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1929. Their powers were transferred to county councils and burgh councils. 

So, in early May 1930, the Largo Parish Council, which had an office at 6 Hillhead Street (see 1925 valuation roll above), met for the final time. Officials such as Chairman of six years John Adam and clerk of ten years Hugh Percival demitted office on 15 May. A final audit of the affairs of the Largo Parish Council was carried out in July 1930. In 1931 a new Largo Parish Community Council was formed. The extract below from the 'Largo Village Book' tells us that many local organisations chose to associate with the new community council. The lists of clubs, associations, and other bodies illustrates the vibrancy of the community at the time.

At the end of its first year in existence, the LPCC held its first Annual General Meeting in the Temperance Hall, Lundin Links. The first order of business was to express regret at the recent death of John Adam. There followed a review of the main areas of focus from the past year. These included: the creation of a local calendar to ensure that there was no clashing of events; the protection of the amenities of the villages; the printing and publishing of a guide book to the area; agitating for better lighting of Lower Largo and Lundin Links; planning of foreshore improvements; and helping to fill vacancies on the County and District Councils. One example of how the LPCC 'protected the amenities' of the place related to requesting the removal of a double hoarding with coloured posters, advertising Golden Lager, that had been erected at the east end of Upper Largo. Future blog posts will look in more detail at the guide book mentioned and at the 'foreshore improvements' in relation to Massney Braes. 

​The 18 October 1932 Leven Advertiser also listed the office bearers re-elected for the second year of the LPCC (details below). Much of the work of the community council was undertaken by Charles Raeburn, pictured at the foot of this post, who resided at 'Naikban' on Bourtree Brae. Born in Banff in 1875, Raeburn was an engineer, who had travelled extensively with his work. India, China, Russia, France, Belgium and Burma were among the places that his work had taken him, prior to retiring to Lower Largo in 1929. He named his home 'Naikban' as it meant 'heaven' in old Burmese. He died in 1955 aged 79 and more can be read about his life here.
​

After the Second World War, the Largo Parish Community Council morphed into an 'Improvements Association' covering Lundin Links, Lower Largo and Upper Largo. Over time this divided into individual village 'improvements associations' which had varying periods of existence. In 1975 new community councils were formed in Scotland, under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973.
​

Ploughing matches have been part of the rural scene in Scotland since the late eighteenth century. At these events ploughmen (or ploughwomen) each plough part of a field and the resulting furrows are judged for neatness and straightness. Since around 1800 the Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland has encouraged these matches by offering awards at locally organised events. In Largo Parish, during the second half of the nineteenth century, the Largo District Ploughing Society arranged an annual ploughing match at which a representative from the H.A.S.S. attended and prizes were given.

Largo's society and annual competition originated early in 1846. That year many Largo agricultural folk attended a ploughing match at Winthank. Several Largo ploughmen competed - the winner being Thomas Lindsay of Teuchats. The judges were all Largo farmers. It was resolved on that day to "have an annual meeting for the improvement of ploughing" and the society was formed (see 19 Feb 1846 Fifeshire Journal piece below). 

The table further below shows the details of the annual ploughing matches that followed. The venue rotated around the local farms. Thomas Lindsay was a frequent winner in the early years. Later William Latto and Henry Dalrymple had multiple wins. The number of ploughs competing was typically more than twenty. The month in which the ploughing match was held varied, so some calendar years had two matches while others had none. The matches attracted many spectators despite the fact that often the weather conditions were unfavourable. Mrs Duff's Inn at Upper Largo became the post-match venue of choice, hosting the society's dinner almost every year.

As well as encouraging a competitive spirit among ploughmen, ploughing matches played an important role in developing the skill and technique of ploughing and even stimulated improvements in plough design. The matches usually took place on lea ground (that is open meadow, grass or arable land). The best part of the field is selected and an equal allocation of ground given to each competitor. A peg, bearing a number, is fixed in the ground at the end of each lot, which are as many as ploughs entered in competition. Numbers on slips of paper corresponding to those on the pegs, are drawn by the competing ploughmen, who take the lots as drawn. Plenty time is allowed to finish the ploughing of each lot. Speed is not as important as the quality of execution. Generally, the judges are brought in from outside the immediate locality, so that they can have no personal interest in the exhibition.  

The fact that the annual Largo event started in 1846 and continued for the immediately following decades had much to do with the arrival of Lilias Dundas Calderwood Durham at Largo House in late 1845. She supported the event by giving towards the annual prize money (this was one pound annually as a donation in the 1840s). From the start, and for many years, her overseer, Archibald Smail was the secretary to the society. The 13 November 1845 Northern Warder piece below tells of the "festive rejoicings" upon her arrival at her "patrimonial mansion" and the lighting of a large bonfire at the top of Largo Law to mark the occasion. As well as the main prizes, there was a junior section of the competition for those under 18 years of age.

The main image used on this post is of a ploughing match held locally. Thought to be at Buckthorns around 1910, the photograph shows how well-dressed the horses were. Prizes were often given for the appearance of the horses as well as for the skill of the ploughing. For example a prize might be awarded for best kept harness. Prizes for this tended to be of a practical nature - such as whips or leggings. The Largo District Ploughing Society eventually ceased - to be replaced with organisations that covered a wider geographical area - such as the East of Fife Ploughing Union and later the Fife Ploughing Society. The nature of the ploughing changed over time of course with the increasing mechanisation of farming. However, ploughing matches can still be seen up and down the country - often showcasing vintage machinery.

The previous post covered the 'Mile Dyke' wall that divides the golf links of Leven from those of Lundin. This post will look a little more at the events around the division of what was once a shared course. The photograph above, captured by John Patrick the Leven photographer, shows the former shared links. John Patrick returned to the scene on 29 November 1909 to visually record the opening of the new Leven course - going on to create a range of postcards days later, including of Major Shepherd driving the first ball (see advert below from the 1 December 1909 Leven Advertiser).
​

Described in the same edition of the Leven Advertiser as "the end of an auld sang", the course division prompted mixed feelings among golfers. Many felt sorrow as they played their last round on the shared links, others relished the thought of the new challenge. The origins of the change date back to a meeting of the Joint Green Committee (made up of members drawn from the Innerleven, Leven Thistle and Lundin clubs) held on 8 August 1907. The question of applying for a renewal of the leases of the links with Sir John Gilmour and Mr R.M. Christie of Durie was raised (the leases being up at Martinmas 1909). While the renewal was being considered, the issue of congestion in the summer months was repeatedly raised. A sub-committee was created to look at potential solutions. Several schemes were considered. Ultimately, Sir John decided that a complete eighteen hole course should be laid out on the Lundin side.

This initially caused some consternation among the Leven golfers and left them little alternative but to do the same on the west side of the Mile Dyke. Negotiations opened up with Mr Christie of Durie and with Mr Russell of Silverburn. Eventually, terms were agreed with both men. The football ground to the north of Leven's bowling green and the Ladies golf course was taken in, as was a stretch of Silverburn ground. A new site was found for the Ladies golf course. The sketch below from the 30 June 1909 Leven Advertiser illustrates the new Leven layout, as set out by clubmaker Alex Patrick.
​

Ground also had to be acquired on the Lundin side for the new full course there. Two fields from Sunnybraes Farm plus the Ladies golfing ground provided the necessary space. Champion golfer James Braid laid out the new Lundin Golf Course, an outline sketch of which is shown below. The Ladies were found a new location at the Standin' Stanes Park and an adjoining field. 
​

The day of the opening ceremonies of the two new courses (Monday 29 November 1909) saw brilliant sunshine after an early morning mist had lifted. In an opening address, Major Shepherd stated that they had "just parted with a very old and dear friend whose every feature and peculiarity they had through long association become intimately acquainted with; a friend in whose company most of them had spent perhaps the pleasantest hours of their leisure; a friend whose memory would remain with them so long as they lived". 

It was also acknowledged in the address that course congestion had been a nuisance, especially in the summer months, at both ends of the course. Often there would be a wait of an hour or an hour and a half at the halfway point. For the Leven event, both John Patrick and Miss Mayor "took some striking shap-shots in connection with the opening ceremony". The above photograph by Mayor shows: standing from left to right - Mr J. Ogilvy Shepherd, Mr James Henderson, Mr John Adamson, Councillor T.T. Greig, and seated from left to right - Councillor Aitken, Major Shepherd and Mr J.C. Rolland.

Meanwhile, on the Lundin side, the course was opened with a speech by Sir John Gilmour who presented a golf club to Captain Benjamin Connell Cox (resident of Largo House) with which to drive the first ball.  The couples that set off behind the Captain and Vice-Captain were as follows....

The list includes quite a few familiar names - such as John Adam, Sam Duncan (proprietor of the Lundin Links Hotel), Andrew Masterton, Andrew Peebles, Robert Paxton, Andrew Somerville, and Dr Eggeling. Photographs of the event was captured by Robert Paxton and Mr A Hutt. Many of those listed above appear in the photograph below. The men seated from left to right are: 

Mr R.C. Paxton (ex-Captain)
Sir John Gilmour 
Mr B.C. Cox (Captain)
Mr George Russell (Vice-Captain)
Reverend D. Macmichael

On the far right standing is John Adam. Further below is an image of Benjamin Cox driving off the first tee. The trophy at stake for the inaugural day's play was a silver cup presented to the club by Cox. It was won by George Russell, with a score of 91 less 9 - 82. After the competition, the players adjourned to the Lundin Links Hotel for lunch. Being a November weekday, many of the Edinburgh contingent of summer visitors were not present. However, they sent a collective telegram wishing the new course every success. Also absent was club stalwart Thomas Nicoll due to ill-health. All agree that it had been a red-letter day and that despite the sentimentality regarding the old course, better sport would be provided by the new one.