Chapter XXVIII: Appendix: No. I (1)

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CONTAINING A NOTICE OF ADDITIONAL LIGHT-HOUSE STATIONS,
LIGHT-KEEPERS’ INSTRUCTIONS, FORMS OF MONTHLY AND SHIPWRECK RETURNS.

ADDITIONAL LIGHT-HOUSE STATIONS.

[Sidenote: Additional Light-houses.]

In noticing the different points alluded to, at page 60., as the most prominent stations for additional Light-houses on the coast of Scotland, we shall follow a course from east to west, including the Orkney and Shetland Islands.

[Sidenote: Eastern Coast.]

On the eastern coast two light-houses seem particularly to be required, in addition to the present Light on Kinnaird-Head. One of these, at Buchan-Ness, near Peterhead, which becomes a _turning-point_ in the navigation of that coast, as will be seen from Plate III., would be an excellent guide to the southward, for shipping on the long flat shores of Aberdeenshire, and not less useful as a direction for the foul ground or sunken rocks called Rattray Briggs to the northward of Buchan-Ness. Some are also of opinion, that Girdle-Ness, at the entrance of Aberdeen harbour, would be a proper station for a sea or public Light. The next station in the order of position on the eastern coast, is Tarbetness, a centrical point of land extending into the Moray Firth , which leads to Cromarty Roads, a great rendezvous for shipping in stormy weather. A Light upon this projecting point would also be extremely useful as a direction to the numerous small ports of this district, and would prevent the losses which occasionally happen on Culloden Rock, and Halliman’s Scars, and by the Firth of Tain being mistaken for a continuation of the Moray Firth . It would also serve as a guide to the narrow passage of Fort George, leading to the eastern entrance of the Caledonian Canal.

[Sidenote: Northern Coast.]

Several Light-houses are still wanted for the protection of shipping on the Northern Coast. In particular we notice, that although the eastern entrance of the Pentland Firth is already well marked by the Light-house on the Skerries; yet the western approach to this dangerous, but important channel, requires a light upon Dunnet-head in Caithness, which would prevent vessels from mistaking Murkle Bay for the Pentland Firth , and, at the same time, form an excellent guide for the south-western coast of Orkney. Cape Wrath in Sutherland is the north-western point of the Mainland of Scotland, as will be seen from Plate III. A Light-house upon that promontory would be of great importance to the navigation of the dreary coast of Caithness and Sutherland, and as a direction for the sunken rock called the Nun, surveyed by Captain Ramage, in H. M. S. Cherokee in the year 1814; and by him found to lie 15 miles in a north-eastern direction from that shore. A light upon Cape Wrath would likewise serve as an excellent guide to the northern entrance of the Great and Little Minish, or Friths of Lewis and Uist, a central track in the navigation of the Hebrides, now much frequented by shipping since the erection of the Light-house upon Glass, one of the Harris Isles.

[Sidenote: Orkney and Shetland Islands.]

Perhaps the only additional light still wanted in Orkney, to which it is here necessary to allude, is one upon Nouphead of Westra, to direct shipping on the north-western side of these Islands. In addition to Sumburgh-head Light-house in Shetland, one upon the Out-skerries of Whalsey, on the east, another upon the Scaw of Unst, in the north; and a third on the Skerries of Ve, on the western side, would seem to render these Islands complete in regard to Light-houses.

[Sidenote: Western Coast.]

The opening of the sheltered passage through the Friths of Lewis and Uist, by the Light-house on Glass, has, in a great measure, superseded the use of the outward course of shipping by St Kilda, which is now seldom taken by coasting vessels, though a Light upon that island would be extremely useful to ships making the land from the Western Ocean. The next Light-house that seems wanting in connection with the navigation of the Minish is one upon the Island of Bara, as a direction to its western entrance by the Firth of Uist. It will only further be necessary, on this coast, to direct our attention to the position of the Rocks of Skerryvore, in order to perceive the importance of a light upon that dangerous reef, which lies about 12 miles south-west from the Island of Tiree. The principal rock here is a circular mass of granite, about 60 feet in diameter, and elevated about 20 feet above the highest tides. The rocks of Skerryvore prove not only a great bar to ships making the coast from foreign voyages, but, it is feared, have been fatal to many vessels sailing along these western shores.

The Rhins, a promontory forming the south-western extremity of the Island of Islay, is another position of importance for pointing out the northern side of the passage from the Atlantic to the Clyde and Irish Sea, between Islay and Bengore Head in Ireland. The Commissioners, at their meeting in the month of January 1823, having ordered a Light-house to be built at this station, it is accordingly in progress. The navigation of the sounds and tracks among the Western Isles would also be greatly facilitated by the erection of four Light-houses, of the smallest class of sea-lights, on stations connected with the inner Sounds of Skye and Mull. One of these lights, erected at the south entrance of the Sound of Mull, would not only be important to that passage, but to the various tracks leading to the Sounds of Islay, and by those of Linnehe and Loing, to the western entrances of the Caledonian and Crinan Canals. The Island Devaar, at the entrance of the much frequented anchorage of Campbeltown Loch, is another station for a small Light, to which the attention of the Board has been directed by the Shipping Interest of the Western Coast.

[Sidenote: Southern Coast.]

Although the lights upon the Point of Corsewall and Isle of Man, form a good direction for the southern coast of Scotland, yet a light upon the Mull of Galloway would still be of much utility in preventing northern-bound ships from mistaking Glenluce Bay for the Irish Channel; and in leading them along the Scotch side, between the Firth of Clyde and the Irish Sea. Application has also been made for the erection of a small Light upon the Little-Ross Island, at the entrance of Kirkcudbright-anchorage.

INSTRUCTIONS for the BELL ROCK LIGHT-KEEPERS.

[Sidenote: Instructions to Light-Keepers.]

I.--The Keepers of the Bell Rock Light-house are hereby instructed and directed to keep the lamps of the reflecting-apparatus burning bright and clear, from the going away of day-light in the evening till the return of day-light in the morning. The better to obtain this purpose, the period of night is to be divided into Watches, and each keeper in rotation will mount guard for three hours. The fountains of the lamps being daily supplied with oil, the wicks must be frequently trimmed in the course of the night, but more particularly at the end of each watch.

II.--The motion of the machinery of the reflector-frame must be so regulated, that one of the lights of the natural appearance, and one of those coloured red, shall be exhibited to the mariner in their most brilliant effect, in the course of every four minutes; or the reflector-frame must make one entire revolution in the space of eight minutes.

III.--The keeper on watch will look out for the occurrence of foggy or snowy weather, and during the continuance of either, the bells must be kept tolling both day and night.

IV.--At the end of each watch, the keeper respectively on duty must ring the house or bed-room bell, as the case may be, and thereafter remain at his post until he is relieved by the keeper in person whose turn it is to mount guard.

V.--In the event of any thing getting out of order about the machinery of the reflector-frame, so as to prevent its operation, the Lights, and also the Bell-hammers, if required, must be moved by hand, as nearly to the periodic time as possible, until the repair of the machine can be accomplished.

VI.--Should the stock of Oil in the Light-house by any means be reduced to 150 gallons, between the 1st day of October and the last day of February; or to 50 gallons between the 1st day of March and the 30th day of September, the number of lights on each side of the reflector-frame shall be reduced to three; but in the event of the stock of Oil being respectively lessened to one-half of the above quantities, or that any of the other stores essential to the support of the Light, are getting so low as to endanger its total failure, only one burner shall be lighted on each side of the reflector-frame, or four burners in all.

VII.--Unless, under these circumstances, a supply comes to hand, recourse must ultimately be had to the use of the Wax Candles in store.

VIII.--During any period that the stores or provisions appear to the acting Principal Light-keeper to be in danger of falling short, or in the event of sickness, or under any other circumstances considered of a calamitous and hazardous nature, the signal of distress shall be observed, by ceasing to hoist the Signal-ball at the stated periods, until the arrival of the Attending-vessel.

IX.--In all cases of difficulty, especially such as are referred to by the tenor of the Articles VI. VII. and VIII. of these Instructions, the acting Principal Light-keeper shall use his discretion and judgment in lessening the daily allowance of provisions, water, and fuel, according to his view of the circumstances of the case.

X.--No lights of any kind are to be left in such a situation as to endanger accident by fire. If at any time it should be found necessary to enter the store-room under night, the light must be carried in a lantern.

XI.--The better to ensure regularity and good order in the Light-house-duty, it shall be performed in three distinct departments. The keepers to shift in rotation weekly, from the performance of one department to another. These changes are to take place every Saturday-night.

XII.--The light-keeper performing the duty of the first department, shall, in the course of the day, supply the lamp-fountains with oil, and the burners with cotton; he shall clean the reflecting-apparatus, and all the utensils connected with the trimming of the lights. He shall also take his turn in mounting guard both day and night.

XIII.--The day-work of the second department includes the cleaning of the machinery-case, windows, walls, floors, and apparatus connected with the light-room, not already specified as coming under the first department; he shall likewise clean the balcony and library; the books of which must be dusted or cleaned on the first Saturday of every month. The keeper in this department will also take his turn at day and night watches.

XIV.--The third department includes the cleaning of the bed-room, kitchen, and provision store-room; together with the passages, stairs, and whole utensils connected with these apartments. He shall likewise cook the provisions, and take charge of them from the time of their being served out, until they are set upon the table in a prepared state. The keeper acting in this department shall only be subject to the performance of night-watches.

XV.--The acting Principal Light-keeper will mount guard in his turn by day and night, and do the duty of the first and second departments, but he is hereby exempted from personally performing the duty of the third department; he will, however, serve out the stores, and keep the light-room store in a cleanly and orderly state.

XVI.--The chimney or smoke-tube of the kitchen-range, and the windows of the several apartments, are to be cleaned on the last Saturday of every month, or as soon thereafter as the weather will permit: The performance of which is to be entered into the Monthly Return.

XVII.--The wharfs or cast-iron railways, rope-ladder (now brazen stair), shall, in like manner, be overhauled and examined during the period of spring-tides, on the full and change days of the moon. The condition of these works to be also regularly entered into the Monthly Returns.

XVIII.--The light-keeper on guard is to give immediate notice to the acting Principal-Keeper of the appearance of the Tender, or of any other vessel or boat, which is seemingly approaching the Rock; when the proper signals will be made as to the practicability and safety of landing, and the necessary attendance given; according to the instructions of the Signal-Book.

XIX.--The Keeper on watch between the hours of 9 and 10 in the morning, shall hoist the signal-ball to the flag-staff-head (if the weather will permit), and, in this position, allow it remain during that hour, when _all is well_; but in the event of foggy or stormy weather, such as shall obstruct the view with the telescope between the Light-house and the Signal-tower at Arbroath, the ball shall be hoisted between the hours of 1 and 2 in the afternoon, should the weather have then improved. These circumstances are to be stated in the Monthly Returns.

XX.--The keepers, in rotation, shall have leave, and be carried ashore in the Attending-vessel, at such periods as may best suit the service. When this occurs in regular succession, each of the four keepers will remain six weeks at the Light-house, and two weeks at Arbroath with their families.

XXI.--The keeper who for the time being is on leave at the establishment at Arbroath, will there attend the duty of the signal-room, from 9 to 10 every morning, and likewise from 1 to 2 in the afternoon, when, from the state of the weather, the signals at the Bell Rock cannot be seen and repeated at the appointed hour in the morning, agreeably to Article XIX.

XXII.--The rotation for leave on shore must be so regulated, that the turns of the Principal and Principal-assistant Light-keepers do not immediately or successively follow each other.

XXIII.--When at the Light-house, the keepers will have Rations of provisions and other allowances, as stated in the annexed Schedule, but while they are on shore they provide for themselves.

XXIV.--In case the Rations served out should not at any time be used, the same must be returned to the store, as no provisions of any kind are permitted to be taken away from the Light-house.

XXV.--The Principal Light-keeper, and, in his absence, the Acting Principal-keeper, is held responsible for the due performance of the duty of the other keepers; for the correctness of the Requisitions made for stores; for the Monthly Returns written by the Assistant or Expectant Light-keepers; for all Entries made in the store and journal books; for the regular and properly serving out of the daily allowance of light-room stores and provisions; for the regular use and cleanly state of the bed and table linen; for the good order of the Light-house furniture, apparatus and appurtenances; that none of the stores be wasted or embezzled, but that the strictest economy and careful management be observed, yet so as to preserve a good and sufficient light.

XXVI.--The light-keepers are hereby prohibited from receiving, bringing, or allowing to be brought to the Light-house, any spiritous liquors, as private stores. The Acting Principal Light-keeper is held responsible for the conduct of his assistants; and the Master of the Tender for the conduct of his men in this respect.

XXVII.--The Bell Rock being the chief station at which Light-keepers are instructed in their duty for the service of the Northern Lights, the Principal, or, in his absence, the Acting-principal Keeper, is directed to superintend this department, and they are respectively held responsible for the certificate they may ultimately give as to the qualifications of Expectant-keepers. Upon production of the certificate to the Engineer, the light-keepers will be found entitled to the premium stated in the annexed Schedule of Allowances.

XXVIII.--Each Expectant-light-keeper is to be resident for at least six weeks at the Bell Rock. In the course of this period he is to practise the whole duty performed in the light-room; to write the Monthly Returns; and carefully to peruse these Instructions. If, at the end of this period, he is found qualified, he will receive a certificate to the following effect: “Bell Rock Light-house,” (_here insert the date_.) “These certify, That” (_here insert the name_,) “has resided” (_here insert the number of_) “days at this Light-house; and having been duly instructed in the whole practice of the Keeper’s duty in the Light-room, he is considered qualified to act as an Assistant Light-keeper,” _or is found deficient in certain points_, (_here state the case as it may be_.) “Witness my hand,” (_Signature of Principal, or, in his absence, of the Principal Assistant Light-keeper_.)

XXIX.--The Inventory of the Light-house apparatus, books, furniture, and utensils, is to be compared with the Inventory-book upon the first Friday of the months of May and November half-yearly, or as soon thereafter as the Principal and Principal Assistant Light-keepers are both upon the Rock. Any deficiency in the articles of the Inventory-Book is to be stated in the respective Returns for these months.

XXX.--It being a rule in the Service of the Commissioners of the Northern Light-houses, that access to their establishments shall be free and open to the Public, the keepers are enjoined to pay attention to Strangers, shewing them every civility in their power; and, particularly, to afford their aid and assistance, in cases of Ship-wreck; yet so as not to neglect any thing incumbent upon them, in the proper discharge of their duty as light-keepers.

XXXI.--It is recommended to the light-keepers to be cleanly in their persons and linens, and proper in their apparel in general.

XXXII.--The Light-keepers are enjoined to assemble in the Library, for the purpose of reading the Scriptures, and for Prayers, every Sunday, at 12 o’clock noon, in their Uniform-dress. This service is to be performed by the Acting Principal Light-keeper, or Principal Officer of the Board present. The table is to be covered during this service with a flag; and, when the weather is moderate, the Light-house flag is, at the same time, to be hoisted to the mast-head, and allowed to remain till sunset.

XXXIII.--Should any difference of opinion arise among the Light-keepers about the meaning of these Instructions, the duty shall in such cases be performed agreeably to the explanation and orders of the Acting Principal Light-keeper. In the same manner, in all matters to which these Instructions may not seem fully to apply, the orders of the Acting Principal Light-keeper are hereby declared to be binding upon the respective Light-keepers.

XXXIV.--In case of neglect of duty on the part of any of the Assistant-keepers, the Principal shall, according to the nature of the offence, communicate the circumstances to the Superintendant Light-keeper, on his first visit, or immediately by letter to the Engineer, that the offending party may be reprimanded, put under stoppages, or ultimately dismissed from the service, as the case may require.

XXXV.--These Instructions, with such additional orders as may be issued from time to time, are to be read by the officiating Officer, immediately before reading Prayers, on the first Sunday of the months of May and November.

_Edinburgh, 1st August 1823._

ROBERT STEVENSON,

Engineer to the Commissioners of the Northern Light-houses.

* * * * *

SCHEDULE referred to in the XXIII. and XXVII. Articles of the INSTRUCTIONS.

Daily Allowance per Man, 1 lb. Beef; 1 lb. Bread; 2 oz. Oatmeal;
2 oz. Barley; 2 oz. Butter; 3 quarts Beer; Vegetables and Salt no
stated allowance; For Tea and other necessaries 4d. per day; For
instructing each Expectant-Light-keeper L. 2, distributed as follows,
viz. Principal Light-keeper 15s., Principal-Assistant 10s., each of
the two Ordinary Assistants 7s. 6d.

MONTHLY RETURN from the BELL ROCK LIGHT-HOUSE, for _November 1812_.

[Sidenote: Monthly Return.]

Key: A Spermaceti Oil, in Gallons. B Wicks in Dozens C Lamp glasses D Beef, in Lib. E Bread, in Lib. F Oatmeal in Lib. G Barley, in Lib. H Butter, in Lib. I Beer, in Qrts. J Water, in Gallons K Coals in Cwts L Vegetables in Dozens M Number of People victualled

+--------------------------+--------------------------------------+ |Light-House | | |Stores received. |Provisions, Water, and Fuel, received.| +--------------------------+--------------------------------------+ | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Nov. 1812. | A | B | C | D | E |F |G |H | I | J | K| L | M | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | +-------------+----+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+---+---+ |Stock on |313 |593|360|263|243|72 |32 | 2 |200|615|60|11 | | | hand, | | | | | | | | | | | | | | +-------------+----+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+---+---+ |Sunday, 1.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Monday, 2.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Tuesday, 3.|200 | | | 60|112| | | |160|200|12| 6 | 9| |Wednesd. 4.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 9| |Thursday, 5.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 9| |Friday, 6.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Saturday, 7.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Sunday, 8.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Monday, 9.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Tuesday, 10.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Wednesd. 11.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Thursday, 12.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Friday, 13.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Saturday, 14.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Sunday, 15.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Monday, 16.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Tuesday, 17.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Wednesd. 18.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Thursday, 19.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 8| |Friday, 20.|100 | | | 37| | | | | 80| | 4| 3 | 3| |Saturday, 21.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Sunday, 22.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Monday, 23.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Tuesday, 24.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Wednesd. 25.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Thursday, 26.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Friday, 27.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Saturday, 28.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Sunday, 29.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| |Monday, 30.| | | | | | | | | | | | | 3| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | +-------------+----+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+---+---+ |Received, |613 |593|360|360|355|72 |32 |25 |440|815|76|20 |188| +-------------+----+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+---+---+ |Expended, |111¼| 12| 36|188|188|23½|23½|23½|376|260|19|13½| | +-------------+----+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+---+---+ |Remainder } |501¾|581|324|172|167|48½| 8½| 1½| 64|555|57| 6¼| --| |in Store, } | | | | | | | | | | | | | | +-------------+----+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+--+---+---+

Key: AA Spermaceti Oil. AB „ Galls. AC „ Qs. AD „ Pts. BB Wicks in Dozens CC Lamp Glasses DD Number of Lamps in Light-Room. EE Beef in Lib. FF Bread, in Lib. GG Oatmeal in Lib. HH Barley, in Lib. II Butter, in Lib. JJ Beer, in Qts. KK Water, in Gallons LL Coals in Cwts MM Vegetables used.

+--------------------------------+-------------------------------------+ | Light-House Stores | Provisions, Water, and Fuel, | | served out. | served out. | +-------------+---------+--------+-------------------------------------+ | | AA | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Nov. 1812. +---+--+--+BB|CC|DD| EE| FF| GG| HH | II | JJ| KK|LL| MM| | | AB|AC|AD| | | | | | | | | | | | | +-------------+---+--+--+--+--+--+---+---+---+-----+----+---+---+--+---+ |Stock on | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | hand, | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | +-------------+---+--+--+--+--+--+---+---+---+-----+----+---+---+--+---+ |Sunday, 1.| 3| 2| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Monday, 2.| 3| 2| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Tuesday, 3.| 13| 2| | | 6|24| 9| 9|1 2| 1 2 | 1 2| 18| 30| | 6| |Wednesd. 4.| 3| 2| | | |24| 9| 9|1 2| 1 2 | 1 2| 18| | 2| 6| |Thursday, 5.| 3| 2| | | |24| 9| 9|1 2| 1 2 | 1 2| 18| | 1| 6| |Friday, 6.| 3| 2| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Saturday, 7.| 3| 2| | 6| |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | 2| 6| |Sunday, 8.| 3| 2| | | 6|24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Monday, 9.| 3| 3| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| 40| | 6| |Tuesday, 10.| 3| 2| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | 2| 6| |Wednesd. 11.| 4| 0| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Thursday, 12.| 4| 0| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | 2| 6| |Friday, 13.| 3| 2| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Saturday, 14.| 3| 2| | | 6|24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Sunday, 15.| 3| 3| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | 2| 6| |Monday, 16.| 3| 3| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16|150| | 6| |Tuesday, 17.| 3| 3| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Wednesd. 18.| 3| 3| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | 2| 6| |Thursday, 19.| 3| 3| | | |24| 8| 8|1 0| 1 0 | 1 0| 16| | | 6| |Friday, 20.| 3| 3| | | 6|24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | | 4| |Saturday, 21.| 3| 3| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | 2| 4| |Sunday, 22.| 3| 2| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | | 4| |Monday, 23.| 4| 0| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | | 4| |Tuesday, 24.| 4| 0| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | | 4| |Wednesd. 25.| 3| 3| | | 6|24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | 2| 4| |Thursday, 26.| 4| 0| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | | 4| |Friday, 27.| 3| 3| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| 40| | 4| |Saturday, 28.| 4| 0| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | | 4| |Sunday, 29.| 3| 3| | | |24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | | 4| |Monday, 30.| 4| 0| | 6| 6|24| 3| 3|0 6| 0 6 | 0 6| 6| | 2| 4| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | +-------------+---+--+--+--+--+--+---+---+---+-----+----+---+---+--+---+ |Received, |111| 1| |12|36| |188|188|23 |23 0½|23 0|376|260|19| 13| +-------------+---+--+--+--+--+--+---+---+---+-----+----+---+---+--+---+ |Expended, | | +-------------+ | |Remainder } | Carried to return for next month. | |in Store, } | | +-------------+--------------------------------------------------------+

Written by _M. Wishart, Assis^t._

Principal or Principal Assistant } _John Reid, Prin^l._ Light-Keeper’s Signature, }

JOURNAL relative to the Duty of the Light-Keepers, and the State of the Weather, &c. at the Bell Rock, for _November 1812_.

+-------------+---------+-------+------+----------+-------+-------+-------+ | | | | | | | | | | | Time of |Time of|Night-| Keeper |Keeper |Tolling|Tolling| | | Extin- | Light-|Watch | on |absent | of | of | | Nov. 1812. |guishing,| ing, | Set, | First | on |Bells |Bells | | | A.M. | P.M. | P.M. | Watch. |Leave. |begun. |ceased.| +-------------+---------+-------+------+----------+-------+-------+-------+ |Sunday, 1.| 6.50 | 4.55 | 5 |J. Reid |Wishart| | | |Monday, 2.| 6.20 | 4.55 | - |J. Bonyman| | | | |Tuesday, 3.| 6.30 | 4.55 | - |H. Leask | | | | |Wednesday, 4.| 6.25 | 5. | - |Reid |Bonyman| | | |Thursday, 5.| 6.25 | 4.45 | - |Leask | | | | |Friday, 6.| 6.40 | 4.45 | - |M. Wishart| |8 A.M. |10 A.M.| |Saturday, 7.| 6.45 | 4.40 | - |Reid | | | | |Sunday, 8.| 6.50 | 4.40 | - |Leask | | | | |Monday, 9.| 6.40 | 4.45 | - |Wishart | | | | |Tuesday, 10.| 6.45 | 4.35 | - |Reid | | | | |Wednesd. 11.| 6.30 | 4.35 | - |Leask | | | | |Thursday, 12.| 7. | 4.30 | - |Wishart | | | | |Friday, 13.| 6.55 | 4.30 | - |Reid | | | | |Saturday, 14.| 6.30 | 4.30 | - |Leask | | | | |Sunday, 15.| 7. | 4.20 | - |Wishart | | | | |Monday, 16.| 6.55 | 4.20 | - |Reid | | | | |Tuesday, 17.| 7. | 4.20 | - |Leask | | | | |Wednesd. 18.| 7.5 | 4.20 | - |Wishart | | | | |Thursday, 19.| 7. | 4.15 | - |Reid | | | | |Friday, 20.| 7.15 | 4.10 | - |Leask | | | | |Saturday, 21.| 7.15 | 4.10 | - |Wishart | | | | |Sunday, 22.| 7. | 4.10 | - |Reid | | | | |Monday, 23.| 7. | 4.10 | - |Leask | | | | |Tuesday, 24.| 7.10 | 4.10 | - |Wishart | | | | |Wednesd. 25.| 7.10 | 4.15 | - |Reid | | | | |Thursday, 26.| 7.20 | 4.10 | - |Leask | | | | |Friday, 27.| 7.15 | 4.5 | - |Wishart | | | | |Saturday, 28.| 7.20 | 4.15 | - |Reid | | | | |Sunday, 29.| 7.10 | 4.10 | - |Leask | |12 noon|10 P.M.| |Monday, 30.| 7.10 | 4.10 | - |Wishart | | | | +-------------+---------+-------+------+----------+-------+-------+-------+

+-------------+--------+------------+----------+-------+-------+ | |Prevailing State of the Weather.|Barom. |Therm. | | +--------+------------+----------+ in | in | | | Foggy, | Hazy, H. | |Inches |Degrees| | Nov. 1812. | | Rain, R. | Wind | at | at | | | Snowy. | Clear, C. | Calm, C. |8 A.M. |8 A.M. | +-------------+--------+------------+----------+-------+-------+ |Sunday, 1.| | R.H. | S.W. | 29.40 | 46 | |Monday, 2.| | C. | W.S.W. | 29.50 | 42 | |Tuesday, 3.| | C. | West. | 29.68 | 42 | |Wednesday, 4.| | C. | N.N.W. | 29.69 | 43 | |Thursday, 5.| | C. | North. | 29.70 | 45 | |Friday, 6.| Foggy, | C. | North. | 29.50 | 45 | |Saturday, 7.| | C. | N.N.E. | 29.60 | 50 | |Sunday, 8.| | H. | Variable.| 29.88 | 50 | |Monday, 9.| | C. | S.E. | 30.10 | 49 | |Tuesday, 10.| | C. | Variable.| 30.12 | 48 | |Wednesd. 11.| | C. | N.E. | 30.30 | 48 | |Thursday, 12.| | H.R. | N.E. | 29.90 | 45 | |Friday, 13.| | H.R. | S.E. | 29.52 | 42 | |Saturday, 14.| | H.R. | S.S.E. | 29.60 | 43 | |Sunday, 15.| | H.R. | N.E. | 29.65 | 41 | |Monday, 16.| | H.R. | N.E. | 29.92 | 41 | |Tuesday, 17.| | H. | East. | 29.41 | 44 | |Wednesd. 18.| | H. | N.E. | 29.70 | 43 | |Thursday, 19.| | C. | N.N.E. | 29.22 | 45 | |Friday, 20.| | C. | Variable.| 29.50 | 45 | |Saturday, 21.| | H. | N.W. | 29.47 | 50 | |Sunday, 22.| | H. | W.S.W. | 29.58 | 49 | |Monday, 23.| | H. | W.S.W | 29.60 | 46 | |Tuesday, 24.| | H.R. | Variable.| 29.50 | 45 | |Wednesd. 25.| | R.H. | N.E. | 29.86 | 45 | |Thursday, 26.| | R.H. | E.N. | 29.66 | 49 | |Friday, 27.| | C. | S.S.E. | 29.97 | 48 | |Saturday, 28.| | H. | S. by E. | 30.23 | 47 | |Sunday, 29.| Foggy, | H. | Variable.| 30.34 | 43 | |Monday, 30.| | C. | S.W. | 30.15 | 43 | +-------------+--------+------------+----------+-------+-------+ 30) 892.25 | 1356 ------- |------ Average, 29.742 | 45.2

+-------------+-----------------+-------------------+------+-------------+ | |Supposed rise at | |Sick, | Number | | |High Water on the| Tender’s Boat | and | of | | | Building of | |unable| Strangers | | Nov. 1812. +-------+---------+--------+----------+ for | on the | | | Tide. | Spray. |Arrives.| Departs. |Duty. | Rock. | +-------------+-------+---------+--------+----------+------+-------------+ |Sunday, 1.| 8 | 40 | | | |5 Artificers.| |Monday, 2.| 9 | 40 | | | | | |Tuesday, 3.| 10 | 40 | 8 A.M.| 10 A.M.| |2 Surveyors. | |Wednesday, 4.| 11 | 40 | 8 A.M.| 9.30 A.M.| |2 depart. | |Thursday, 5.| 11 | 50 | 10 A.M.|10.15 A.M.| | | |Friday, 6.| 11 | 70 | | | | | |Saturday, 7.| 10 | 40 | | | | | |Sunday, 8.| 9 | 40 | | | | | |Monday, 9.| 9 | 40 | | | | | |Tuesday, 10.| 8 | 40 | | | | | |Wednesd. 11.| 8 | 50 | | | | | |Thursday, 12.| 7 | 50 | | | | | |Friday, 13.| 7 | 40 | | | | | |Saturday, 14.| 8 | 60 | | | | | |Sunday, 15.| 8 | 96 | | | | | |Monday, 16.| 9 | 60 | | | | | |Tuesday, 17.| 9 | 70 | | | | | |Wednesd. 18.| 10 | 60 | | | | | |Thursday, 19.| 11 | 50 | 7 A.M.| 10 A.M.| |5 depart. | |Friday, 20.| 11 | 50 | | | | | |Saturday, 21.| 10 | 40 | | | | | |Sunday, 22.| 10 | 50 | | | | | |Monday, 23.| 9 | 40 | | | | | |Tuesday, 24.| 9 | 50 | | | | | |Wednesd. 25.| 8 | 90 | | | | | |Thursday, 26.| 8 | 40 | | | | | |Friday, 27.| 8 | 40 | | | | | |Saturday, 28.| 8 | 40 | | | | | |Sunday, 29.| 9 | 30 | | | | | |Monday, 30.| 9 | 30 | | | | | +-------------+-----------------+--------+----------+------+-------------+

Written by _M. Wishart, Assis^t._

Principal or Principal Assistant } _John Reid, Prin^l._ Light-Keeper’s Signature, }

REMARKS regarding any Accident or Particular which occurred connected with the Bell Rock Light-house during the Month of _November 1812_.

1812.

Nov. 1. The first part of these twenty-four hours strong gales, with
much rain, middle and latter parts moderate and changeable.

... 3. Blowing fresh breezes to-day, with fine clear weather. At 8 A.
M. the Light-house Yacht’s boat landed twenty ankers of spermaceti
oil. Mr John Steedman, and Mr William Lorimer, from Mr Stevenson’s
office, also came to the Rock to do business at the House. Returned
by the boat one anker of dregs of oil, with a box of broken
lamp-glasses, together with 20 empty casks. One mason went ashore.

... 4. At 8 A. M. the Yacht’s boat landed, and made two trips with
a variety of articles and materials for the joiners, and provisions
for the use of the house. Returned some extra bolts. Mr Steedman and
his assistant employed with their instruments measuring the Rock at
low-water.

... 5. These twenty-four hours, strong breezes with clear weather.
At 10 A. M. the Yacht’s boat landed, and took off Mr Steedman and Mr
Lorimer.

... 15. A constant gale, with much rain until the 19th, when it fell
moderate. The signal-ball was not hoisted to-day, as an intimation
ashore that the artificers were ready to leave the Rock.

... 20. Variable weather to-day, with flying showers. At 7 A. M.
the Tender’s boat landed at three trips, with water, fuel, and
provisions, for the use of the House, and ten ankers of oil for the
use of the Light-room. At 10 o’clock the boat departed, when Mr
Slight, James Glen, Robert Selkirk, and two others, left the Rock to
proceed to the shore for the season.

... 23. All these twenty-four hours it blew strong gales, with very
hazy weather. Signal-ball not hoisted, owing to the state of the
weather.

... 25. Blowing a gale with much rain. Signal-ball not hoisted.

... 26. Do. weather with much sea.

... 29. First and middle parts of these twenty-four hours hazy and
variable. Middle parts foggy and calm, with frost. Bells tolling.
Signal-balls not hoisted.

... 30. Fine clear weather. Cleaned the chimney to-day.

Written by, _M. Wishart, Assis^t_.

Principal or Principal Assistant } _John Reid, Prin^l._ Light-keeper’s Signature. }

To ROBERT STEVENSON, Esq. Engineer for Northern Light-houses, Edinburgh.

_Note._--Similar Monthly Returns are also sent from the other Light-house Stations, independently of which, the Light-keepers are directed to correspond with the Engineer as often as the circumstances of the Service require.

SHIPWRECK RETURN from _Pladda_ Light-House.

[Sidenote: Shipwreck Return.]

DESCRIPTION of Vessels or Boats Wrecked within Fifty Miles of any of
the Northern Light-House Stations, to be immediately communicated
to the Engineer, in so far as the circumstances can be ascertained
by the observation or diligent inquiries of the respective
Light-Keepers; who are also instructed to render every assistance in
their power to Shipwrecked Mariners; without however neglecting the
proper duties of their charge.

---------+------------+-----------+---------+-----------+--------------- |Ship, Brig, | Belonging | Name of | Name of | Where Date. |Schooner, or| to what | the | the | Wrecked. | Sloop, &c. | Port. | Vessel. | Commander.| ---------+------------+-----------+---------+-----------+--------------- | | | | | Tuesday, | Sloop, | Greenock, | Atlas, | Alexander | Island of 18th | | | | Duncan. | Pladda, to the February | | | | | S. W. of the 1823. | | | | | Light-house. | | | | | ---------+------------+-----------+---------+-----------+---------------

Principal or Assistant’s } _William Soutar, Prin^l._
Signature, }

_Note._--It fortunately happens that no instance of Shipwreck has occurred at the Bell Rock since its erection; and therefore a Return from one of the other Light-house Stations is given.

LETTER accompanying the foregoing Shipwreck Return.

_Pladda Light-House_, _18th February 1823_.

SIR,

I beg leave to inform you, that this vessel was observed by the keeper on watch in the Light-room to be ashore at 5.30 A.M., who gave the alarm to all the inmates of the Light-house; but no assistance could be given to the crew by us till 8.30 A.M., when the tide ebbed so far that they could heave us a rope; then we assisted them in getting their clothes, and themselves, and some other articles, ashore. It is thought by the Captain and crew that the vessel will not be got off. As it happened to be about high-water when she came ashore, she is very far up on the shore, and ebbs almost dry at low-water, although it be neap-tides.

The report given us by the Captain and crew is, that they thought to have weathered this island, as they had the light three points on their weather-bow; but having so little sail set at the time, they observed they were so near the shore they thought the vessel would not stay. Their jib and top-sail was all the sail they could carry to the storm. They say they were in the act of setting a small bit of the peak of their mainsail when the vessel struck, to enable them to keep more to windward of the island.

Wednesday, 19th. At low-water, the Captain and crew, with other assistance, stripped the vessel of her sails and materials, which were carefully laid aside, and partly got into the store-house. Nothing more particular about the wreck at this date; but we shall be as serviceable to the unfortunate men as we can.

I remain,

SIR,

Your most obedient humble Servant,

WILLIAM SOUTAR.

To ROBERT STEVENSON, Esq. } Engineer for Northern Light-Houses, Edinburgh.}

No. II.

INCHCAPE ROCK.

_Extracted, by Mr SOUTHEY’s permission, from his Minor Poems_, Vol. III. p. 148.

[Sidenote: Inchcape Ballad.]

An old writer mentions a curious Tradition, which may be worth
quoting. “By east of the Isle of May,” says he, “twelve miles from
all land in the German Seas, lyes a great hidden rock, called
Inchcape, very dangerous for navigators, because it is overflowed
every tide. It is reported in old times, upon the saide rocke there
was a bell, fixed upon a tree or timber, which rang continually,
being moved by the sea, giving notice to the saylers of the danger.
This bell or clocke was put there and maintained by the Abbot of
Aberbrothok, and being taken down by a sea pirate, a yeare thereafter
he perished upon the same rocke, with ship and goodes, in the
righteous judgment of God.”

STODDART’S _Remarks on Scotland_.

No stir in the air, no stir in the sea,
The Ship was still as she could be;
Her sails from heaven received no motion,
Her keel was steady in the ocean.

Without either sign or sound of their shock,
The waves flow’d over the Inchcape Rock;
So little they rose, so little they fell,
They did not move the Inchcape Bell.

The Abbot of Aberbrothok
Had placed that bell on the Inchcape Rock;
On a buoy in the storm it floated and swung,
And over the waves its warning rung.

When the Rock was hid by the surge’s swell,
The Mariners heard the warning Bell;
And then they knew the perilous Rock,
And blest the Abbot of Aberbrothok.

The Sun in heaven was shining gay,
All things were joyful on that day;
The sea-birds scream’d as they wheel’d round,
And there was joyaunce in their sound.

The buoy of the Inchcape Bell was seen
A darker speck on the ocean green;
Sir Ralph the Rover walk’d his deck,
And he fix’d his eye on the darker speck.

He felt the cheering power of spring,
It made him whistle, it made him sing;
His heart was mirthful to excess,
But the Rover’s mirth was wickedness.

His eye was on the Inchcape Float;
Quoth he, “My men, put out the boat,
And row me to the Inchcape Rock,
And I’ll plague the Abbot of Aberbrothok.”

The boat is lower’d, the boatmen row,
And to the Inchcape Rock they go;
Sir Ralph bent over from the boat,
And he cut the Bell from the Inchcape Float.

Down sunk the Bell with a gurgling sound.
The bubbles rose and burst around;
Quoth Sir Ralph, “The next who comes to the Rock
Won’t bless the Abbot of Aberbrothok.”

Sir Ralph the Rover sail’d away,
He scour’d the seas for many a day;
And now grown rich with plunder’d store,
He steers his course for Scotland’s shore.

So thick a haze o’erspreads the sky
They cannot see the sun on high;
The wind hath blown a gale all day,
At evening it hath died away.

On the deck the Rover takes his stand,
So dark it is they see no land.
Quoth Sir Ralph, “It will be lighter soon,
For there is the dawn of the rising Moon.”

“Canst hear,” said one, “the breakers roar?
For methinks we should be near the shore.”
“Now, where we are I cannot tell,
But I wish we could hear the Inchcape Bell.”

They hear no sound, the swell is strong;
Though the wind hath fallen they drift along,
Till the vessel strikes with a shivering shock,
“Oh Christ! it is the Inchcape Rock!”

Sir Ralph the Rover tore his hair;
He curst himself in his despair;
The waves rush in on every side,
The ship is sinking beneath the tide.

But even in his dying fear
One dreadful sound could the Rover hear,
A sound as if with the Inchcape Bell,
The Devil below was ringing his knell.

1820.

No. III.

[Sidenote: Light-house Duties.]

ABSTRACT ACCOUNT of LIGHT-HOUSE DUTIES, furnished to the COMMITTEE of the HOUSE of COMMONS, in reference to the Bell Rock Act.

“ABSTRACT STATE of ADDITIONAL DUTIES that will arise from the District to be included in the Collection by the Erection of a Light-House on the Cape or Bell Rock; calculated from the Custom-House Returns, 13th May 1806, at the rate of 1½d. _per_ ton, whether Outwards or Inwards.

‘ 1804.{ Foreign, { Inwards, 93,782
{ { Outwards, 67,633
{ Coastways, { Inwards, 239,037
{ { Outwards, 170,174 Tons.
------- 570,626 L. 3566 8 3
‘ 1805.{ Foreign, { Inwards, 81,123
{ { Outwards, 73,289
{ Coastways, { Inwards, 259,997
{ { Outwards, 203,564
------- 617,973 3862 6 7½
‘ 1806.{ Foreign, { Inwards, 97,205
{ { Outwards, 86,739
{ Coastways, { Inwards, 270,737
{ { Outwards, 215,637
------- 670,318 4,189 9 9
--------- -----------------
Total of three years, 1,858,917 L. 11,618 4 7½

“The tonnage of the ports of the Firth of Forth, already pay ½d. _per_ ton for Inchkeith light, so that the additional duty payable by them, will be only one penny _per_ ton, the total tonnage thus paying ½d. is, for the whole three years, 971,482.

Deduct, therefore, ½d. _per_ ton for this amount, L. 2023 18 5

Deduct also expences of collection,
and the charges of management, say
15 _per cent._ 1742 14 9
--------- 3766 13 2
-------------
“Nett total for three years, L. 7851 11 5½
-------------
“Nett yearly total L. 2617 3 9½

(Signed) “C. CUNINGHAM, Secretary to the Commissioners of the Northern Light-houses.”

_Note._--The District of coast referred to in the above Abstract,
lies between Peterhead, in Aberdeenshire, towards the north, and
Berwick-upon-Tweed, to the south, both inclusive.

No. IV.

[Sidenote: Relative Reports.]

Containing REPORTS relative to the BELL ROCK LIGHT-HOUSE, addressed
to the COMMISSIONERS of the Northern Light-houses, by JOHN RENNIE and
ROBERT STEVENSON, Civil Engineers.

REPORT by Mr Stevenson.

_Edinburgh, 23d December 1800._

During the reign of his present Majesty (George III.), a spirit for discovery and improvement, in maritime affairs, has been pursued with the greatest energy, and crowned with a success, which can only be equalled by the happy effects that have followed to commerce. In proportion, therefore, as the pursuits of the navigator are considered essential to the wealth of the community, every effort to Assist him, in his course through the pathless ocean, must be regarded both as the call of interest and humanity. The most prominent causes of the perfection to which coasting-navigation has been brought, may be ascribed to the accuracy of our charts, and an increase of land-marks, by which the mariner, after braving the dangers of the seas, is enabled to guide his ship with safety into her intended port. It is well known, that before the Maritime Survey of the Orkneys and Hebrides, by Mackenzie; and until an act of Parliament was passed, appointing Commissioners for erecting Light-houses upon the coast of Scotland, mariners were left to grope their way from the Firth of Forth to the Firth of Clyde, without the assistance either of proper charts or land-marks. Under these circumstances, they passed the Pentland Firth , and generally held a course to the northward of the Orkney islands; then steering westward, they sailed on the outward side of the Lewis Isles into the Atlantic Ocean, exposed to many dangers, and unable to avail themselves of the advantages of the sheltered sounds and harbours of the Friths of Lewis and Uist. Hence the difficulty of navigating this district, was long a great bar to the improvement of the Highlands, and to the extension of the British fisheries. It was, likewise, a material drawback to the present flourishing trade, carried on through these sounds to the Baltic and other parts of the northern Continent of Europe.

From the earliest accounts which tradition gives of the navigation of the Firth of Forth, a Light-house upon the Bell Rock appears to have been looked forward to as an essential pre-requisite to the advancement of its commerce: And in proportion to the extent of the one, the call for the other has become more and more urgent, and is now regarded as a matter of the greatest importance.

Since the publication of Adair’s Charts, there has been no want of a survey of the Firth of Forth; but this important estuary still remains extremely deficient with regard to land-marks, and the reporter will venture to say, that there is not any where a more dangerous reef in the kingdom, or one that calls more loudly for something to be done, than the Cape or Bell Rock. When, therefore, the extensive benefits derived from those powers, which have enabled the Commissioners of the Northern Light-houses to erect and maintain six Light-houses upon the coast, are considered, it is much to be wished that some measure were adopted for enabling that Board to add to the number of these land-marks, by the erection of one upon this most destructive rock. From the numerous losses by shipwreck, which have happened upon the Bell Rock, it is presumed, that some account of its position and extent, from actual survey,--a few remarks upon the description of building best suited to the situation of the rock,--together with an attempt to point out the extensive use of such a light,--and the ports which appear to be within the limits of any duty to be levied for its support, will not be deemed unnecessary at a time when the public look forward, with anxious expectation, to this Board, in a matter of so much importance, not only to the navigation of the Firth of Forth, but in general, to the eastern coast of Great Britain.

Having finished a design and model of a pillar-formed light-house for the Bell Rock, immediately after the very fatal storm which occurred in the month of December 1799, the next object of the Reporter, was to survey the rock itself, that he might judge more fully of its fitness for the situation. Accordingly, in the month of April following, he set off for the rock, and had reached Fifeness, when, from the state of the weather, he was obliged to return, after an absence of ten days, without accomplishing his purpose. Soon after his return from his annual voyage to the Northern Light-houses, Mr Gray, secretary for the Commissioners, requested of the Board of Customs to grant the use of one of its yachts, to make another attempt. An order having been accordingly obtained for the Osnaburgh cutter, Captain Campbell, then lying at the Elie, the reporter, accompanied by his friend Mr James Haldane, architect, set off for that place. But the Osnaburgh being then under repair, and the period of spring-tides being at hand, it was found advisable to proceed along the coast to West-haven, on the northern side of the Firth of Tay; and upon Sunday the 5th of October 1800, a landing was effected upon the Rock, and an ample opportunity afforded of gaining all necessary information.

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An Account of the Bell Rock Light-HouseChapter XXVIII: Appendix: No. I (1)

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