Yetholm Online: Recent Correspondence

Here you can read some of the latest correspondence coming in to Yetholm-Online.
Just click on this 'Contact Us' bar to write your own message to the site.

Photographs Wanted

Hi

My father in law Jack Christie is searching for photographs of Yetholm from the late 30’s to the 50’s especially of the primary school. Can anyone please help?
He has many high quality photographs and stories which he will be glad to share.
His email address is morchristie@aol.com and his telephone number is 01259 751 099.

Andrew

Toilets !

have just finished the St.Cuthberts Walk on 28th May. I did last year also in April 07.

I just wanted you to know Yetholm wins my vote for the worst toilet facilities on the route (or anywhere for that matter).
The biggest problem for someone doing the route in consecutive days and not stopping at camp sites is water. The toilets don't have running water in the sink to wash your hands or fill a bottle. They were just the same in 2007 and nothing has improved in 2008.

Regards
Keith

Keith & Gill Miller

L a s t C e n t u r y B o o k s
34 High Street
Innerleithen
Peeblesshire Scotland
EH44 6HF

Genealogy - Scott

Hi
I have recently commenced researching my wife's ancestors.
I have a newspaper cutting from the Berwick Advertiser which records the
death of Mr Richard Scott. It states that he married a Elizabeth Brown on
the 22nd January 1887 at the Plough Hotel Yetholm. It then implies that
the parents of Elizabeth were the landlords/tenents of the Plough.
Were marriages carried out in hotels/Inns in those days and have you any
records to substanciate that the parents wwere landlords? and if so,
during which period and any other info that you may be able to give.
I hope that you will be able to help me.
Regards,

John Blessed

Congratulations

This is just a quick note to wish Michele and Kevin all the best on your marriage which took place on the 10th May 2008 at the "Border Hotel" Heartiest Congrats form your Uncle Dougal (Peter) from Saudi Arabia. Thanks for passing this message through your website with best wishes to Anne and Raymond Yeomans whose lovely daughter Michele was marrying Kevin.

Dougal (Peter ) Douglas
Senior Security Manager
Sy Coordinator Fluor Saudi Kayan
Tel: 03 359-3000 Ext: 245

Genealogy - Family Research

Hello, You mention on your genealogy page to request
for information.
I am interested in several area families from the
early 1800's.

Associated with Auchope Farm, Yetholme

Wanless
Rutherford
Douglas
Howe or Hovee
Cairns (?)

Pleased to hear from you.

Messages for this reader can be passed on via this website on the following link yetholmonline@tiscali.co.uk

Genealogy - Graydon / Graden

Hello
I believe that my family originated from the township of Graden,near Yetholm.I would be interested to know if you have any information about it or about anybody with the name Graden/Graydon or variations in the area.
Any help you can give would be greatly appeciated.
Many thanks
Garth Graydon

Albert Scott - Fond Memories

Memories of working with Albert, a great character in his time

Please click on the attachment Albert Scott

From Drew Douglas
( A Yetholm Man Through and Through )

Searching for .....

Hello
I came across your website while searching for a friend I had worked with in the early 1970s in Toronto, Canada. However once in, I could no longer spot the name of Janet Fiddes, who would most likely be in her mid 50s now. If I could get any contact data on this lady I would be most appreciative.

Many thanks.
Nancy Kast

Dog Fouling

The Halterburn road leading from the High Street Kirk Yetholm is fast becoming a health hazard because irresponsible dog owners are allowing their pets to deposit faeces quite literally anywhere, and everywhere . It is disgusting, and not a nice area at all to be walking on at the moment; those passing by from St. Cuthberts and the Penine way must be disappointed at this blatant lack of hygiene which is so evident .

Concerned Kirk Yetholm Residents

Dog fouling is one of the most anti-social activities reported to Yetholm Community Council and affects many people in several different areas around the village. Unfortunately, it is a few irresponsible dog-owners who are now creating difficulties for the majority. We would urge everyone to report all cases of irresponsible dog fouling which must include names. Meanwhile, Yetholm Community Council is pushing for the provision of a 'doggy-bin' on this route.

Genealogy - Millar/Miller

Hello my name is Elaine Garfitt but I was Elaine Miller
My Great Grandfather was William Carrick Miller. I know in the church it says it as Millar but not sure where it was changed, whether it is a mistake in the church or we changed it somewhere along the way.
Anyway I saw the programme on ITV last night about the Gypsies and then when you mentioned William's name my ears pricked up. My Grandfather was called John Carrick Miller, my dad is Alan Carrick Miller and my brother is Graeme Alan Carrick Miller. I do know that William was killed by his own gun in some of shooting incident when my grandfather was quite young and the family then moved to Edinburgh.
We do come to Yetholm form time to time, but I must admit it has been a few years since I was there.
Could you please tell me how I can a copy of the book that was mentioned last night, I would really like to know a little more about the Gypsies and Yetholm.
Thank you for your help
Yours faithfully
Elaine Garfitt

Hi to Yetholm

I have just down loaded your website and it's great to be in contact with the area that I grew up in, me being (Dougal) Peter Douglas, son of Andy &Phyllis Douglas. I was born in Kelso and started school at Yethom Primary in 1955. I see that my brother in law and sister ( Raymond and Anne Yeomans )are the proud winners of the Leek Show.
I am at present working in Saudi Arabia, in the Jubail area as Security Coordinating Manager for Fluor Saudi Kayan. I left Yetholm in 1968 and have since then regularly visited Yetholm to see family and friends. It's great to see this website and it allows me to see how life is progressing in the area where I had so much fun as lad, growing up magic times.

Sincerest best wishes to one and all,

Dougal (Peter Douglas)

Genealogy - Blythe
I am a direct great.....great nephew of Charles and also the cousin of Nils mentioned above and also Kevin I believe.
Interested in hearing from other long lost relatives and for my cousin Nils (who lost my email LOL) to contact me ASAP.
Michael J. Blythe
Canada

Yetholm Bells ?

Hello,
I have come across a reference that the bellfounding firm of Gillett & Johnston of Croydon cast 5 bells for Yetholm in 1934. Would anyone know of their location please.

Regards

George Dawson

Genealogy - Young

Hi,
I am about to embark on a search of my father's ancestry. He often used to refer to the fact that my Great ? ? ? Grandfather was the king of the Yetholm Gypsies.
Is there a definitive publication or piece of research on the gypsies which may provide some direction on family names, burial or other records etc, or will I have to undertake this myself?
Regards
John Sneddon Young

Son of Frank Young(1902-1984)

In answer to your query, I would recommend 'A History of the Kirk Yetholm Gypsies' by A.V. Tokely.
This details the rise of the Gypsy population in Kirk Yetholm and is very informative.

By clicking the 'Historical Records' link on the Genealogy page of YetholmOnline, you will be taken to an external site which has lots of information on family research, burial records etc.
The Genealogy page also opens up to provide a brief history of surnames and occupations in the village over the years.
If you alo click on the 'Contact Us' page, this opens up to another page entitled 'Recent Correspondence'
This is the page where your message will now appear and features many similar queries from other readers.

Hopefully, armed with the above information, you can now begin your research. Good luck !

Genealogy - Nelson/Douglas

I am trying to locate information on Agnes Douglas who married John Nelson(Neilson) about 1840 in the Kelso area.

William was also associated with an Andrew Scott in the 1850’s and they both ended up being transported to Western Australia. I believe that the Douglas family and Nelson families could be gypsies.

Cheers

Mel Langridge
Western Australia

Kirk Yetholm Memories - Scott

Spent a number of years having great holidays in Kirk Yetholm,loads of happy memories.Would like to know more about my fathers connection with Kirk Yetholm.My father wasJames Scott,born 1916 died 1992.My grandfather was James Scott,he was a baker -he died in Biggar. My grandmother was Martha Scott,she is buried in Yetholm. My father had relations who lived in a cottage off the green at Kirk Yetholm.they were Nannie,Charlie and Bobby Douglas. My holidays were spent at Valleydene Cottage in Kirk Yetholm. Know very little about my ancestors, would like to know if my father had any brothers or sisters,and his connection with the Douglas's

James Scott
Airdrie Lanarkshire.

Genealogy - Scott/Stevenson

Hello to Yetholm,
I am in New Zealand and I am helping a terminally ill friend to collate his family history, he does not have a lot of time - his ancestors came from Yetholm.
They were Isobel Scott baptised in Yetholm in 1790, she was the daughter of William Scott and Margaret Stevenson (married December 1778, Yetholm), William was the son of John Scott and Jean Willson/Wilson, presumably also of Yetholm.
I wonder if someone local is of this line and if it is possible to add to this by giving me more of their ancestry and I would also like to know what their occupations were.
I would love to hear from someone fairly soon as time is running out for him and his family history has become important to him.
Robin Bishop
Tauranga
New Zealand

Genealogy - Frater

I am very interested in being in contact with anyone that is connected to the Frater Family of Yetholm. My GGGG Grandmother was buried in the Yetholm Church Yard in March 1856 her name was Isabella (Eliz) Frater nee Harvey. I don't know if she has a headstone or not, but if anyone happens to see her grave, I would dearly love a photo and transcription of it. The 1841 and 1851 census has Isabella as being born in Roxburghshire, but from what I can gather she married John Frater not sure where, had at least 8 children John, Jane,Thomas, George,Isabel,James, Alice and Alexander - they where all born in Northumberland just over the border, but by 1841 Isabella was back in Yetholm and no sign of her husband John.

Looking forward to hearing from anyone that can help me.
Christine Frater
frater@australiaonline.net.au

Genealogy - Ray

Hello
I am researching my family history and my middle name is RAY. Family gossip says that I descend from the Gypsies at Yetholm. My GGGGrandfather was George Ray who was born in Northumberland and died in Richardsons Stead in 1849 aged 26. I have found a George Ray on the 1841 census aged 17 and his father was Andrew, living in Scremerston. Andrew was a joiner and George was an engine keeper. I am aware that Scremerston is near to Yetholm but I can't find a line between my Rays and the village of Yetholm.
George Ray married (?) Mary Hopper or Hooper (also living in Scremerston in 1841) but I can't find proof of this. It must have been between 1841 and 1849.
I would love to find out if the tale is true
Regards
Claire Lewis

Genealogy - Muir

Would anyone have any information on the Muir family? My grandfather, Robert, was born at Kirk Yetholm in 1884 and his parents, John and Mary died there in 1918.
Many thanks
Sue

Genealogy - Armstrong

My 2 x great grandfather was Peter Armstrong born 1827 at Yetholm. He
married Margaret Blaike about 1850 although I have not been able to find a
record of this. They had the following children; Helen 1850, Mary 1852,
Margaret 1855, William 1856, Peter 1860.
Peter (senior) died 1897 and Margaret 1889.

Susan Jones
Sydney

Any assistance with this or the following names would be much appreciated.

Researching; Pegrum, Haggis, Pearman, Crawford, Aitchison, Armstrong,
Mewburn, Whitelaw, Foley, Rafferty, Elliott, Frost, Golding, Lewry

Genealogy - Gladstone

Hi,
Had a look through your excellent web site and found it interesting and informative. As you can see by my name I had Yetholm connections which went back several generations. I of course refer to the Yetholm family of Gladstone blacksmiths, one of whom crowned the last gypsy king. Sadly there are no Gladstone's left in Yetholm. I was born at the Smiddy House and often visit the village when in the area.
My reason for contacting you is to learn the history and meaning of
the titles 'bari gadgi and bari manushi'. Are the words derived from the Romany language. My father sometimes used the word gadgi when referring to a male person, I think. Is it the case that gadgi and manushi refer to male and female.

Again, congratulations on your excellent web site.

Regards
A. Gladstone

In answer to the question and to put a few minds at rest, the terms referred to are actually made up of two separate words - both of which are derivatives from the old Gypsy 'Cant' or tongue. The word 'Gadgi' simply means boy or young man whilst 'Manushi' means girl. The prefix 'Bari' infers good looking or handsome. Therefore, in the true meaning of the words, the phrases mean 'Best Boy' and 'Best Girl' in the village. The Gypsy 'cant' contains many alternative words for everyday objects and was used regularly in the area. There are many websites available which detail this peculiar language in more depth and there are still instances in modern days of these words ocassionally creeping in to the local vocabulary.

Genealogy - Montgomery/Douglas

Looking for any information on David MONTGOMERY and Mary DOUGLAS married 28
dec. 1822 Yetholm, Roxburgh.

Thank you

Jocelyn Harrold

Genealogy - Downes

I am looking for information on my ancestors who lived in Yetholm in the 1871-1881 census. Thomas Downes was a fishmonger who's address was the Plough Inn.

Thank you in advance

Ivyp601@aol.com

Genealogy - Trotter/Scott

Hello,
I wonder if someone could please be of help here ?
I believe that SARAH TROTTER and her husband ROBERT SCOTT were burried in Yetholm churchyard.
Robert Scott died in 1862 and Sarah between 1841 and 1851.
I would be so grateful if anyone could help here.
Thank you in advance,
.Ruth Trotter

Genealogy - Allan

Hello from New Zealand,
Hoping that you might be able to help in my search for ancestors by the name of Allan, father and children born in Yetholm prior to 1840. Father's name Charles, son's, Charles, James (who emigrated to New Zealand) and William. Any information you may be able to help with would be very gratefully received.

Thank you,
Jill Allport. New Zealand.

Genealogy - Young

I've traced my GGGGgrandfather on my grandmothers side to being an Andrew Young of Yetholm. He married Margaret Davidson in 1817. Are there any further records of him and was there any connection with the douglas family as his daughter was called margaret douglas young? This (Douglas) then became a family name for at least 3 girls. Also- is there any connection between Andrew Young and the Youngs of Ford/ Etal? On my grandfather's side his great-grandfather was William Young born about 1816 in Tweedmouth, then moved the family to ford to work in the mines. Many thanks for any info you can proivde.

Sarah Harkess

War Memorial - Douglas

Were William, Andrew & Walter Douglas as listed on the village war memorial brothers?
KD

Address Query

Hello
I hope somebody can help me. I am looking for a place near Yetholm where my great great great grandfather was born.
The census record handwriting is hard to read but it looks like it read: Seatlaw or Seallaw (I can't make this part out really), Roxburghshire, Yetholm.
If anybody could tell me what the place name is meant to be, where it is and what kind of a place it is, that would be great.
Thanking you in advance
Rachel Kosonen

Contact Wanted !

Hullo,
I wrote a couple of years ago to see if anyone in Yetholm can put me in touch with Peter West who lived at Bowmont Lodge, Town Yetholm back in 1981 when I was visiting on holidays with some mates of mine. Peter came out to Australia for a few months and worked here. I would like to catch up with him again as it has been 25 years! Can anyone help me please?
PS: The Border Hotel was a great place to relax with Gordon (the barman) serving up bangers and onion rings.
Regards
Paul von Stieglitz
Launceston
Tasmania
Australia

Genealogy - Sweet

The last member of my family left Yetholm in 1854 for Australia, the others (my branch included) having established themselves in Glasgow in the 1780's. They lived in Sweetholme on Morebattle Road; this is now a ruin with the allotments behind it. They also lived in Mertoun Cottage on the opposite side of Morebattle Road. They were gardeners I believe. Supposedly the family were in the town from the 1500\'s. If anyone has any information relating to them I would be very grateful to read it.
Great website.
Martin Sweet

Genealogy - Symmes

I am a descendant of some of the Symmes who supposedly dwelled in Yetholm in the earliest days of that family. My first Symmes ancestor to come to Americz was the Rev. Zachariah Symmes who came to Boston in 1634. The earliest Symmes I have any record on is a William Symmes,mentioned in a will in Daventry in 1544. Is there anyone who shares these ancestors?
Shirley Honore

Genealogy - Foxton

Can anyone please help has anyone heard of a gypsie family of the name foxton or foxon i believe they are from around edinbugh but travelled all over, my grt grandmother was emily foxton/foxon so i am told i would be gratefull for any help
Davy Stewart

Genealogy Syms/Sims

Hi
I am currently working on the Genealogy of my own family.
My Surname is Scottish, of that I am sure. Our branch of the Sims/Simms family came to Ireland in the Plantations in the 1600\'s.
According to an American Genealogist by the name of Almon J Sims we originally came from Yetholm.
I am wondering whether you have ever come across the name of Sims or Simms in Yetholm?
Also is there many Simpsons there?
I would really be grateful for any information you may have on this.
Kind Regards
Gordon Syms

Genealogy - Blythe

My great great gran's father robert blythe was connected to charles faa blythe can u help with any more information
thankyou
Susan McBride

Genealogy - Douglas

Hi to hear from anyone that has photo,s of the douglas family my grt grt grandfather was hawick davy douglas who is in the kellso photo of the gypsie gathering after st james fair i have had some luck lately with someone sending a photo of his son charles douglas born 1873 but as yet had no luck with finding photoes of any more of the family is there anyone that can help please.
Thanks
Davy Stewart

Genealogy - Affleck

I have recently found a connection to a Bettie Affleck b 1765 in Yetholm.She was the daughter of William Affleck and Christian Hay. Bettie married a robert Black and lived in Hownam. If you can provide anything it would be appreciated. I am in Australia and have just made contact with an Affleck cousin in western Australia who told me about the Yetholm gypsies.
Elizabeth Smith

Genealogy - Johnson

I'm hoping someone will be able to help me. i am trying to trace the johnson family who i believe were gypsies from yetholm. my greatgrandfather was born in yetholm as far as i can tell but i have no dates. his name was james and his wife was mary. They had three children,lily,james(later to become mp) and my grandfather john george who was born in 1905.
i am only starting to trace my family tree but would welcome any information where possible.
many thanks
Helen Dempster

Genealogy - Colville-Brown

My wife and I will be visiting your town in July. I am looking for information on my great-great uncle Dr. Colville Brown born 1839 and died 1882. We plan on researching him and family while in Scotland. Any help you could give us would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Walt & Janet Lewis

Genealogy - Yett

Looking for any information on the name of YETT and the history of that name thank you for any assistence.
Thanks
Robert Yett

Genealogy - Hope

Hi .. seeking information on the Hope families that resided at Yetholm. I have recently discovered that my G.G.G. Grandfather was born at Yetholm in 1817. His name was David Hope and I believe that he was the son of James Hope and Janet Tait. Other names associated are Johnson/Johnston, and Hardie. Would dearly love to hear from anyone that is part of these families that may have information to share. Thank you,
Suzanne Wilson

Old Friends ?

Hello.. i used to live just outside Yetholm for 3 years at Woodside Farm, and attended Kelso High School, best years of my life there :).. I was interested in trying to find out how many of my old friends still lived around the area.. or friends that had moved into Yetholm from other parts of the borders..

I miss the town greatly and would love to visit it again as soon as i am able.. hope all businesses are doing well..
Paul Forster

Genealogy - Graham

Just thought I'd drop a line to say hello. My associations are with the Graham's of Yetholm. Apparently there are quite a lot of us as I am finding out. I came to Yetholm last year and my visit was far too brief. I will visit again.
Lesley Hancock

Genealogy - Young

My 3x greatparents John Young/Elizabeth Montgomery,were married in Yetholm,1817.John's parents were John Young/Elizabeth Tate,
Although I now live in London,Iwas born in Duns.I hope to visit Yetholm in the summer,and wondered was there any written information that is available to check up and maybe trace further back.
I did try to contact you over a year ago,but was having trouble sending and recieving e-mails,so if this queery is familiar I apoligise.
Gerry Young

Genealogy - Blythe

I am the ggg grandson of Esther faa blythe. My father was from Sunderland Englend, he was John W. Jones. His Mother was Anne Heslam Blythe, daughter of Charles Blythe and Charlotte Heslam. Charles Blythe was the son of King Charles Faa Blythe. Are there any books that you can suggest that I may purchase? I would love to learn more about my ancestors and I have a sister who is planning on visiting Scotland this summer.

Thank you,
Kevin Jones
Kevin C. Jones
Upland, California
U.S.A.

Geneaology - Sim/Sym

Dear Friends,
Frankly, I am not quite sure whether I can bother you with my "genealogy" problem. Penetrating Internet,I found the information ( which is compatible one with my knowledge on English (rather Scottish) roots of Polish branch of Sym family).
Namely, according to Almon J.Sims, (the American genealogist active in forties of last Century)
names Sims or Simmms are ancient forms of Sym and moreover that at least American branch of Sym's family originated from Sym clan of Yetholm,Roxburgh County,Scotland.

Dear Friends,
if you are unable to provide me with any information on this issue, please forget about my e-letter.
In any case,let me greet you, wishing the best.
Antoni Sym (Poland)

Genealogy - Douglas

Hello,
Can you help me please?
The William Douglas listed on the Yetholm war memorial as having died in WW1 in 1917 was my Grandfather.
I need to know if the Andrew Douglas and Walter Douglas also listed were his brothers and if so where Walter died and was buried.
Also were they sons of Andrew & Mary neeTait Douglas and was she known as 'Potty Mary'
My father was the only son among the six kids William had. My Aunt Liz was the oldest at about 13, my Dad was just 12 and his other sisters ranged down to my Aunt Ruby who was just 9 months.
This generation was moving away from the gypsy way of life and were buying houses and cars and didn't much talk about their roots.
Of course, when these people were alive, I wasn't very interested in this subject but now that they are all dead they cannot answer the questions I now find very interesting.
I hope you will be able to confirm the veracity of the few facts at the top of this mail...........if not I will have to delve back into the morass of sorting out which Douglas married which Tait, Young or Blyth.
Please help me put a green shoot on my family tree!

Ken Douglas

Genealogy - Scott / Glass

Hello
I am looking for information on the SCOTT / GLASS and GLASS SCOTT families who settled in Yetholm. These are Thomas Fiddes & Robina Hewat, William Scott & Jessie Robertson, George Scott & Janet Fiddes, Thomas Glass & Isabella Glass who had Annie Glass out of wedlock.
Some of the other names from the family also from the Yetholm area is Margaret Skinner, William and Agnes Smart.
The main family home was at Hay Hope Farm. Would anyone know if this is still standing or be kind enough to send me any photographs?
Later on Andrew Scott lived at Mount View, again does know if this is still standing or be kind enough to send me any photographs.

It would be really nice to hear from anyone that has a connection

Kind wishes
Amanda Hodson, South Manchester

Genealogy - Edgar

EDGAR family. We will be coming to Kirk Yetholm in June 2006, partially because we believe my wife\'s ancestors (Edgar) had a connection with the Border area, particularly with Wederlie. Any information on Edgar connections would be appreciated.
John Leslie

Genealogy - Young

Hi, my GGGrandfather was Thomas Young and from Census info he was born around 1824 in Rothbury. My Grandmother always said the family were from Gypsies from Kirk Yetholm. Thomas married Mary Clark (b 1818 in Spittal) January 1847 at Lamberton Toll. They had children Ann Young (b 1847 in Berwick?), Elespeth Young (b 1849 in Berwick), Allen Young (b 1852 in Wallsend), Elizabeth Young (b 1854 in Wallsend), Mary Young (b 1857 in Wallsend), John Young my GGrandfather (b 1860 in Wallsend) and Thomas Young (b 1862 in Wallsend).
Thus Thomas and Mary plus family moved south to Wallsend between 1847 and 1852. Can anyone help with 1851 and 1841 census records for the family and birth/christening information for Thomas? Also, can anyone confirm the link to the Youngs of Yetholm?

Many thanks
Peter Crowther

Genealogy-Staward/Bolton/Young

Since my original message in the Genealogy section I have found more relatives in Yetholm.John Staward mar.7 Feb 1833 to Sarah Young Children my GG Grandmother Helen 31 Dec 1825 & sister Isabella 25 Oct 1828. I have traced my family from that time but would be interested if anyone is connected or has any information. My GG Grandfather John Staward was a master baker in the area.
I hope to get to Yetholm soon and I am very interested in all the local stories. I live in Australia

Thank you
Stoward Bolton

Genealogy - Douglas

I am searching for information on the history of the Douglas family for a friend whose mother was a Douglas. My friend was born in Kelsoe 88 years ago on Burns Night. Her father was head gardener there.
I would be grateful for any information, no matter how general.
Best wishes
Christine Considine

Geneaolgy Hall/Richardson

Hi, I am trying to find out any information about Thomas Hall and his wife Ann Kennedy who lived in Yetholm in the 1780\'s.
Any info would be much appreciated. Thanks.
Ann Richardson

Genealogy -Cockburn

Can anyone help with history of past family?
John Cockburn. Ann Dick
William Cockburn (Primside Mill)
Thanks
Barry Cockburn

Burial Records

Could any one tell me where to find Birth and Burial information for Yetholm circa 1839 to 1855 as I believe some of my relatives are buried in Yetholm churchyard. Thank you
John Middlemist

Yetholm School

I used to go to yetholm school around 94-96ish, just thought i'd say hi. (lived at woodside)

Patrick Forster

Genealogy - Herbert

I submitted a DNA sample to the Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation and when the Y chromosome results came back I found out I belonged to the J2 haplogroup. This is a quite unusual group and it indicates that my paternal line ancestors (father\'s father\'s father etc.) came from the fertile crescent region in the middle east. How did they end up in Yetholm? Two strong possibilities are that they came across as gypsies or with Roman troups which included Samartian cavalry and Iraqui bowmen.

This makes the 1898 photo of the coronation of Charles Faa Blythe all the more intriguing. Standing on either side in the photo and holding spears are Robert and Andrew Herbert! Did a gypsy take on the Herbert name in former times to escape being hung? Did a Herbert lady have a liason with a gypsy? We may never know.

Alternatively Dare Street ran through the region and Roman camps were situated nearby. Marriages with locals took place and many troups and camp supporters did not return to their original homelands.

Have any males of known gypsy origin along their paternal line submitted DNA samples and obtained results? I would be most interested to hear from them.

Ian Herbert

P.S.
Further to my message re DNA. Are there any males out there of possible Yetholm gypsy descent along their paternal line who would be willing to have a free DNA test? They can do so via the Sorenson Foundation. You do need to have family tree information going back four generations. Contact me for more details. Ian.

Yetholm School

Used to go to Yetholm school as a kid. 1982-85 ish. Thought i'd say hi!
Greg Burke
gregpatsa@aol.com

Genealogy - Douglas

Hello,
I am beginning to trace my family tree and seek any information about a Douglas family in Yetholm in the late19c early 20c. My grandfather was William Douglas married to a Rebecca Butler and had 6 children. Elizabeth, Andrew-my father, Agnes, Mary, Lillian & Rebecca and he is on the village war memorialScots Guards as killed in ww1 on 23 July 1917 along with I think, his brother Arthur Army Veterinary Corps. I understand there was another brother, Zac Zachary and four sisters, Rachael, Peggy margaret?, Aggie Agnes?,& uncertain Cunnie/Connie. Their parents were Andrew Douglas, father and mother Mary, who I believe was known as 'Potty Mary' as she travelled the area exchanging clerts for crockery items. Any info you have to support these sketchy dtails or suggestions for other sources to pursue would be welcome.
Thanks
Ken Douglas
Ken Douglas

Genealogy - Veitch

I am helping a young friend search for her ancestors who came from Kirk Yetholm, the family name is Vietch, family talk say's they lived in Yetholm Hall.
Any help would be much appreciated.

Eddie McCoy
macoys@clear.net.nz

History

Scotland's champion runner during the period 1860- 1872 was a native of Yetholm.He invariably quoted Yetholm as his place of origin as shown in the many press reports of his races. Remarkably he went on to become equally famous as a golf club maker at Bruntsfield Links in Edinburgh. He was also a golf course designer and owned a golf clubhouse. His clubs were sold in large numbers in America and is well known to golf historians and collectors for his famous 1890 patent. Not bad for a local lad whose father, an agricultural labourer, who died when Tom was 13 years old. I am his great grandson .The amount of published information about him during my four years of resesrch is amazing. His wife was from Yetholm and they were married in Yetholm.I will be pleased to provide further information for you should you wish.
mail@tcarruthers.freeserve.co.uk

Reference the message about Scotlands champion runner and golf club maker, Thomas Carruthers, if anyone is interested, a 222 page book has recently been published on this famous Yetholm man -'Golf Club Maker/Thomas Carruthers 1840-1924'- ISBN 0954441648. It can be ordered through any bookshop quoting the above title or number.

Genealogy - Tait

Hi,
I'm looking for any information on the TAIT family. George Tait was my grandmother's brother, her name was Agnes but she was always known as Pat. She married George Coulter and moved to Ancrum. George still lived in Yetholm in the 1980's. He was married to Doris and they had two sonS Euan and Neil. I'd love to hear from them or anyone who knew them.
Thank you.
Diane McCarogher
Diane@dianemccarogher8.wanandoo.co.uk

If either Diane or the Taits (or both) would like to pass us their correct e-mail addresses, we will be able to put you both in contact with each other. The e-mail addresses currently held are both incorrect

Hello Yetholm Online,

Thank you for passing George and Doris phone number on to me. I have already talked to Euan and hope to speak with Doris over the weekend. Due to my bad typing you don't have my correct e-mail address. I've checked it this time. Thanks for your help from em' and my family down here in London. Feeling very jealous of your lovely air and scenery at this time of year when pollution is high!
Great website. Thanks again.
Diane

Genealogy - Herbert

Hello UK Friends
This is a brief note to update you on our plans for a reunion in 2007.

The reunion is open to all the descendants of the families who went from the Wooler region to New Brunswick, Canada on the \'Cornelius\' in 1837. As you know, my great great grandfather Thomas Herbert and his wife Isabella Embleton were on board with their family, including my great grandfather Robert Herbert. He came to Australia from Canada in 1851. The reunion is also open to families who followed soon after to settle in Harvey, New Brunswick.
Also in attendance will be descendants of William Wanless Herbert, the brother of Thomas, who came directly to Australia. I am particularly pleased that Ewen Herbert and his wife Betty will be coming together with some of their nephews and nieces. Ewen is the grandson of William Wanless Herbert.

We are planning on events held over two weeks with the key events being scheduled for the middle weekend - Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd of September 2007. Because this is at the end of the holiday period some families won\'t be around for the second week but others will be staying on to enjoy time in the Border regions after the holiday rush is over.

Ford Castle is to be the main venue for evening events and for accomodation. So far we have about 75 people (adults and children) who have firmly committed to attending the reuion. Ford accomodates about 90 maximum and I expect (hope) we will be looking for accomodation elsewhere too by the time the reunion comes around. The final schedule of events will depend on numbers and which week(s) people attend. Some tours and walks will be planned but most days we expect people to do self-guided tours, having armed them with maps of where their ancestors came from. My wife Pam and I know that two weeks is hardly enough to see everything (and everyone) related to just my family, let alone all the other tourist attractions in the region.

One event that is firmly in our calendar is a church service at Kirk Yetholm on Sunday 2nd September 2007. I have been in touch with Reverend Robin McHaffie about this. We will likely follow up with lunch or an afternoon tea in Town Yetholm, depending on the service time.

I plan to lead three walks. The first will be up Yeavering Bell and then up the Coquet Valley to \'Whitehall\' (the first know abode of my Herbert ancestors). The second walk will be to view \'Old Rookland\' behind Biddlestone (the third known abode of my Herbert ancestors). The third and most challenging walk will be across the Cheviot starting at \'Sourhope\' on Bowmont Water and finishing on the Wooler side at Harthope Burn, weather permitting. In all three cases we we expect people who can\'t manage the walks to come along and enjoy the scenery near these same starting and finishing venues. Alwinton Church and the \'Rose and Thistle\' hotel are places we will be visiting on the \'Old Rookland\' walk day.

Al Robison is co-chairman of the organising committee. He resides in Houston, Texas. Two of great grandfather Robert\'s sisters married Robison girls. He also has an extra dose of Embleton genes due to cousins marrying. Also on our committee are Linda Harris (Al\'s sister who lives in Montana) and Ellis Craig, Tim Patterson and Bruce Elliott (all three reside in Ottawa) and Dann Craig from Calgary. Joecelean Swan Hall from Harvey, New Brunswick is a remarkable genealogist and an ex-officio member of our committee.

Tim and Bruce have put up a website which I am sure you will enjoy investigating http://history.earthsci.carleton.ca/ The website is still under development but already has some great reading and viewing. Bruce Elliott is a professor of history, specialising in immigration patterns. We are fortunate that he has done so much work on the \'Cornelius\' immigrants and has volunteered to be on our committee and give a talk at the reunion. I also hope you enjoy viewing some of the photos I took in 2003 and 2004. If I have any captions wrong, or you have additional information about them, please let me know.

We also have a yahoo groups website which people can join to read and send messages http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/2007-HarveyNB-WoolerUK/ You have to join this site but it is straight forward and there are no negatives in joining.

That\'s all for now. Greetings to you all and I will keep you informed as our plans get more definite. I welcome any suggestions and comments.

Best regards, Ian Herbert
Ian Herbert

Genealogy - Douglas

Does anyone have info on the Douglas -gypsy- family esp David Douglas (Hawick Davie) featured in the photo of Kelso Fair 1886 ?
David McBride
David McBride

Looking For ...

I am from Tasmania, Australia and travelled extensively through Scotland in 1981 and 1983. When we stayed in Kirk Yetholm at the youth hostel we met many good friends, and I was wondering if you could help me by letting me know if they are contactable or whether or not they are still with us! Lets hope so. The people we met were Jock Tait (good darts player)Peter West (came and stayed in Tasmania with us for a while) Robbie West (pete\'s dad) and Gordon, who used to own the pub. (Great bangers and mash with onion rings!!!) Thank you and I hope you can help. I would especially like to get in touch with Peter West if possible.
Many Thanks

Paul von Stieglitz
Paul von Stieglitz

Genealogy - Blythe
Hi All,
Been a few years since I've been in Yetholm, still have a few relations living there, I have been researching the Yetholm Blythe and other related families since 1979, I have some info on Douglas's, Rutherford's, Tait's, Gorgdon's, Stewart's, and a few others. Any one who wants can get in touch as I'm trying to find any descendants, very interested in "family stories" as I have found an element of truth in most of them, not all, but most. I'm using a computer to store my data and so far have 10120 names, about three thousand are Blyth/e descendants, some others may be or do connect but as yet I have not found the connection. I've E-m'ed a few people who had queries on the list last night, even found a cousin whose E-m address I'd lost a few years ago. As I said, happy to hear from anyone.

Nils Blyth (ggrandfather dropped the E when he came to Australia in 1883, always said it took up too much ink.)

Nils Blyth

Genealogy-Middlemist
Hello - My 2nd Great Grandfather was in the 1841 Yetholm census as Andrew Middlemass/middlemess he married Elizabeth Noble circa 1838. Any other information about this couple would be most welcome eg births, marriage.
Thank you
John W Middlemist

John W. Middlemist

Genealogy - Palmer
This is the second time I have been in touch, the first time was very vague. Now I know that Harry Palmer was my Great Uncle, he married Jane/June Blythe.This is where I am stuck. Any ideas at your end, are their any Blythes left that may be related??
Would be glad to hear from anyone!!

toprise@tiscali.co.uk

Yetholm Online
Welcome History Genealogy Visitor Guide News Local Businesses Clubs Events Calendar Contact Us Recent Correspondence Yetholm School Community Council Accommodation Classified Ad's	Welcome > Contact Us > Recent Correspondence Recent Correspondence Here you can read some of the latest correspondence coming in to Yetholm-Online. Just click on this 'Contact Us' bar to write your own message to the site. Photographs Wanted Hi My father in law Jack Christie is searching for photographs of Yetholm from the late 30’s to the 50’s especially of the primary school. Can anyone please help? He has many high quality photographs and stories which he will be glad to share. His email address is morchristie@aol.com and his telephone number is 01259 751 099. Andrew Toilets ! have just finished the St.Cuthberts Walk on 28th May. I did last year also in April 07. I just wanted you to know Yetholm wins my vote for the worst toilet facilities on the route (or anywhere for that matter). The biggest problem for someone doing the route in consecutive days and not stopping at camp sites is water. The toilets don't have running water in the sink to wash your hands or fill a bottle. They were just the same in 2007 and nothing has improved in 2008. Regards Keith Keith & Gill Miller L a s t C e n t u r y B o o k s 34 High Street Innerleithen Peeblesshire Scotland EH44 6HF Genealogy - Scott Hi I have recently commenced researching my wife's ancestors. I have a newspaper cutting from the Berwick Advertiser which records the death of Mr Richard Scott. It states that he married a Elizabeth Brown on the 22nd January 1887 at the Plough Hotel Yetholm. It then implies that the parents of Elizabeth were the landlords/tenents of the Plough. Were marriages carried out in hotels/Inns in those days and have you any records to substanciate that the parents wwere landlords? and if so, during which period and any other info that you may be able to give. I hope that you will be able to help me. Regards, John Blessed Congratulations This is just a quick note to wish Michele and Kevin all the best on your marriage which took place on the 10th May 2008 at the "Border Hotel" Heartiest Congrats form your Uncle Dougal (Peter) from Saudi Arabia. Thanks for passing this message through your website with best wishes to Anne and Raymond Yeomans whose lovely daughter Michele was marrying Kevin. Dougal (Peter ) Douglas Senior Security Manager Sy Coordinator Fluor Saudi Kayan Tel: 03 359-3000 Ext: 245 Genealogy - Family Research Hello, You mention on your genealogy page to request for information. I am interested in several area families from the early 1800's. Associated with Auchope Farm, Yetholme Wanless Rutherford Douglas Howe or Hovee Cairns (?) Pleased to hear from you. Messages for this reader can be passed on via this website on the following link yetholmonline@tiscali.co.uk Genealogy - Graydon / Graden Hello I believe that my family originated from the township of Graden,near Yetholm.I would be interested to know if you have any information about it or about anybody with the name Graden/Graydon or variations in the area. Any help you can give would be greatly appeciated. Many thanks Garth Graydon Albert Scott - Fond Memories Memories of working with Albert, a great character in his time Please click on the attachment Albert Scott From Drew Douglas ( A Yetholm Man Through and Through ) Searching for ..... Hello I came across your website while searching for a friend I had worked with in the early 1970s in Toronto, Canada. However once in, I could no longer spot the name of Janet Fiddes, who would most likely be in her mid 50s now. If I could get any contact data on this lady I would be most appreciative. Many thanks. Nancy Kast Dog Fouling The Halterburn road leading from the High Street Kirk Yetholm is fast becoming a health hazard because irresponsible dog owners are allowing their pets to deposit faeces quite literally anywhere, and everywhere . It is disgusting, and not a nice area at all to be walking on at the moment; those passing by from St. Cuthberts and the Penine way must be disappointed at this blatant lack of hygiene which is so evident . Concerned Kirk Yetholm Residents Dog fouling is one of the most anti-social activities reported to Yetholm Community Council and affects many people in several different areas around the village. Unfortunately, it is a few irresponsible dog-owners who are now creating difficulties for the majority. We would urge everyone to report all cases of irresponsible dog fouling which must include names. Meanwhile, Yetholm Community Council is pushing for the provision of a 'doggy-bin' on this route. Genealogy - Millar/Miller Hello my name is Elaine Garfitt but I was Elaine Miller My Great Grandfather was William Carrick Miller. I know in the church it says it as Millar but not sure where it was changed, whether it is a mistake in the church or we changed it somewhere along the way. Anyway I saw the programme on ITV last night about the Gypsies and then when you mentioned William's name my ears pricked up. My Grandfather was called John Carrick Miller, my dad is Alan Carrick Miller and my brother is Graeme Alan Carrick Miller. I do know that William was killed by his own gun in some of shooting incident when my grandfather was quite young and the family then moved to Edinburgh. We do come to Yetholm form time to time, but I must admit it has been a few years since I was there. Could you please tell me how I can a copy of the book that was mentioned last night, I would really like to know a little more about the Gypsies and Yetholm. Thank you for your help Yours faithfully Elaine Garfitt Hi to Yetholm I have just down loaded your website and it's great to be in contact with the area that I grew up in, me being (Dougal) Peter Douglas, son of Andy &Phyllis Douglas. I was born in Kelso and started school at Yethom Primary in 1955. I see that my brother in law and sister ( Raymond and Anne Yeomans )are the proud winners of the Leek Show. I am at present working in Saudi Arabia, in the Jubail area as Security Coordinating Manager for Fluor Saudi Kayan. I left Yetholm in 1968 and have since then regularly visited Yetholm to see family and friends. It's great to see this website and it allows me to see how life is progressing in the area where I had so much fun as lad, growing up magic times. Sincerest best wishes to one and all, Dougal (Peter Douglas) Genealogy - Blythe I am a direct great.....great nephew of Charles and also the cousin of Nils mentioned above and also Kevin I believe. Interested in hearing from other long lost relatives and for my cousin Nils (who lost my email LOL) to contact me ASAP. Michael J. Blythe Canada Yetholm Bells ? Hello, I have come across a reference that the bellfounding firm of Gillett & Johnston of Croydon cast 5 bells for Yetholm in 1934. Would anyone know of their location please. Regards George Dawson Genealogy - Young Hi, I am about to embark on a search of my father's ancestry. He often used to refer to the fact that my Great ? ? ? Grandfather was the king of the Yetholm Gypsies. Is there a definitive publication or piece of research on the gypsies which may provide some direction on family names, burial or other records etc, or will I have to undertake this myself? Regards John Sneddon Young Son of Frank Young(1902-1984) In answer to your query, I would recommend 'A History of the Kirk Yetholm Gypsies' by A.V. Tokely. This details the rise of the Gypsy population in Kirk Yetholm and is very informative. By clicking the 'Historical Records' link on the Genealogy page of YetholmOnline, you will be taken to an external site which has lots of information on family research, burial records etc. The Genealogy page also opens up to provide a brief history of surnames and occupations in the village over the years. If you alo click on the 'Contact Us' page, this opens up to another page entitled 'Recent Correspondence' This is the page where your message will now appear and features many similar queries from other readers. Hopefully, armed with the above information, you can now begin your research. Good luck ! Genealogy - Nelson/Douglas I am trying to locate information on Agnes Douglas who married John Nelson(Neilson) about 1840 in the Kelso area. William was also associated with an Andrew Scott in the 1850’s and they both ended up being transported to Western Australia. I believe that the Douglas family and Nelson families could be gypsies. Cheers Mel Langridge Western Australia Kirk Yetholm Memories - Scott Spent a number of years having great holidays in Kirk Yetholm,loads of happy memories.Would like to know more about my fathers connection with Kirk Yetholm.My father wasJames Scott,born 1916 died 1992.My grandfather was James Scott,he was a baker -he died in Biggar. My grandmother was Martha Scott,she is buried in Yetholm. My father had relations who lived in a cottage off the green at Kirk Yetholm.they were Nannie,Charlie and Bobby Douglas. My holidays were spent at Valleydene Cottage in Kirk Yetholm. Know very little about my ancestors, would like to know if my father had any brothers or sisters,and his connection with the Douglas's James Scott Airdrie Lanarkshire. Genealogy - Scott/Stevenson Hello to Yetholm, I am in New Zealand and I am helping a terminally ill friend to collate his family history, he does not have a lot of time - his ancestors came from Yetholm. They were Isobel Scott baptised in Yetholm in 1790, she was the daughter of William Scott and Margaret Stevenson (married December 1778, Yetholm), William was the son of John Scott and Jean Willson/Wilson, presumably also of Yetholm. I wonder if someone local is of this line and if it is possible to add to this by giving me more of their ancestry and I would also like to know what their occupations were. I would love to hear from someone fairly soon as time is running out for him and his family history has become important to him. Robin Bishop Tauranga New Zealand Genealogy - Frater I am very interested in being in contact with anyone that is connected to the Frater Family of Yetholm. My GGGG Grandmother was buried in the Yetholm Church Yard in March 1856 her name was Isabella (Eliz) Frater nee Harvey. I don't know if she has a headstone or not, but if anyone happens to see her grave, I would dearly love a photo and transcription of it. The 1841 and 1851 census has Isabella as being born in Roxburghshire, but from what I can gather she married John Frater not sure where, had at least 8 children John, Jane,Thomas, George,Isabel,James, Alice and Alexander - they where all born in Northumberland just over the border, but by 1841 Isabella was back in Yetholm and no sign of her husband John. Looking forward to hearing from anyone that can help me. Christine Frater frater@australiaonline.net.au Genealogy - Ray Hello I am researching my family history and my middle name is RAY. Family gossip says that I descend from the Gypsies at Yetholm. My GGGGrandfather was George Ray who was born in Northumberland and died in Richardsons Stead in 1849 aged 26. I have found a George Ray on the 1841 census aged 17 and his father was Andrew, living in Scremerston. Andrew was a joiner and George was an engine keeper. I am aware that Scremerston is near to Yetholm but I can't find a line between my Rays and the village of Yetholm. George Ray married (?) Mary Hopper or Hooper (also living in Scremerston in 1841) but I can't find proof of this. It must have been between 1841 and 1849. I would love to find out if the tale is true Regards Claire Lewis Genealogy - Muir Would anyone have any information on the Muir family? My grandfather, Robert, was born at Kirk Yetholm in 1884 and his parents, John and Mary died there in 1918. Many thanks Sue Genealogy - Armstrong My 2 x great grandfather was Peter Armstrong born 1827 at Yetholm. He married Margaret Blaike about 1850 although I have not been able to find a record of this. They had the following children; Helen 1850, Mary 1852, Margaret 1855, William 1856, Peter 1860. Peter (senior) died 1897 and Margaret 1889. Susan Jones Sydney Any assistance with this or the following names would be much appreciated. Researching; Pegrum, Haggis, Pearman, Crawford, Aitchison, Armstrong, Mewburn, Whitelaw, Foley, Rafferty, Elliott, Frost, Golding, Lewry Genealogy - Gladstone Hi, Had a look through your excellent web site and found it interesting and informative. As you can see by my name I had Yetholm connections which went back several generations. I of course refer to the Yetholm family of Gladstone blacksmiths, one of whom crowned the last gypsy king. Sadly there are no Gladstone's left in Yetholm. I was born at the Smiddy House and often visit the village when in the area. My reason for contacting you is to learn the history and meaning of the titles 'bari gadgi and bari manushi'. Are the words derived from the Romany language. My father sometimes used the word gadgi when referring to a male person, I think. Is it the case that gadgi and manushi refer to male and female. Again, congratulations on your excellent web site. Regards A. Gladstone In answer to the question and to put a few minds at rest, the terms referred to are actually made up of two separate words - both of which are derivatives from the old Gypsy 'Cant' or tongue. The word 'Gadgi' simply means boy or young man whilst 'Manushi' means girl. The prefix 'Bari' infers good looking or handsome. Therefore, in the true meaning of the words, the phrases mean 'Best Boy' and 'Best Girl' in the village. The Gypsy 'cant' contains many alternative words for everyday objects and was used regularly in the area. There are many websites available which detail this peculiar language in more depth and there are still instances in modern days of these words ocassionally creeping in to the local vocabulary. Genealogy - Montgomery/Douglas Looking for any information on David MONTGOMERY and Mary DOUGLAS married 28 dec. 1822 Yetholm, Roxburgh. Thank you Jocelyn Harrold Genealogy - Downes I am looking for information on my ancestors who lived in Yetholm in the 1871-1881 census. Thomas Downes was a fishmonger who's address was the Plough Inn. Thank you in advance Ivyp601@aol.com Genealogy - Trotter/Scott Hello, I wonder if someone could please be of help here ? I believe that SARAH TROTTER and her husband ROBERT SCOTT were burried in Yetholm churchyard. Robert Scott died in 1862 and Sarah between 1841 and 1851. I would be so grateful if anyone could help here. Thank you in advance, .Ruth Trotter Genealogy - Allan Hello from New Zealand, Hoping that you might be able to help in my search for ancestors by the name of Allan, father and children born in Yetholm prior to 1840. Father's name Charles, son's, Charles, James (who emigrated to New Zealand) and William. Any information you may be able to help with would be very gratefully received. Thank you, Jill Allport. New Zealand. Genealogy - Young I've traced my GGGGgrandfather on my grandmothers side to being an Andrew Young of Yetholm. He married Margaret Davidson in 1817. Are there any further records of him and was there any connection with the douglas family as his daughter was called margaret douglas young? This (Douglas) then became a family name for at least 3 girls. Also- is there any connection between Andrew Young and the Youngs of Ford/ Etal? On my grandfather's side his great-grandfather was William Young born about 1816 in Tweedmouth, then moved the family to ford to work in the mines. Many thanks for any info you can proivde. Sarah Harkess War Memorial - Douglas Were William, Andrew & Walter Douglas as listed on the village war memorial brothers? KD Address Query Hello I hope somebody can help me. I am looking for a place near Yetholm where my great great great grandfather was born. The census record handwriting is hard to read but it looks like it read: Seatlaw or Seallaw (I can't make this part out really), Roxburghshire, Yetholm. If anybody could tell me what the place name is meant to be, where it is and what kind of a place it is, that would be great. Thanking you in advance Rachel Kosonen Contact Wanted ! Hullo, I wrote a couple of years ago to see if anyone in Yetholm can put me in touch with Peter West who lived at Bowmont Lodge, Town Yetholm back in 1981 when I was visiting on holidays with some mates of mine. Peter came out to Australia for a few months and worked here. I would like to catch up with him again as it has been 25 years! Can anyone help me please? PS: The Border Hotel was a great place to relax with Gordon (the barman) serving up bangers and onion rings. Regards Paul von Stieglitz Launceston Tasmania Australia Genealogy - Sweet The last member of my family left Yetholm in 1854 for Australia, the others (my branch included) having established themselves in Glasgow in the 1780's. They lived in Sweetholme on Morebattle Road; this is now a ruin with the allotments behind it. They also lived in Mertoun Cottage on the opposite side of Morebattle Road. They were gardeners I believe. Supposedly the family were in the town from the 1500\'s. If anyone has any information relating to them I would be very grateful to read it. Great website. Martin Sweet Genealogy - Symmes I am a descendant of some of the Symmes who supposedly dwelled in Yetholm in the earliest days of that family. My first Symmes ancestor to come to Americz was the Rev. Zachariah Symmes who came to Boston in 1634. The earliest Symmes I have any record on is a William Symmes,mentioned in a will in Daventry in 1544. Is there anyone who shares these ancestors? Shirley Honore Genealogy - Foxton Can anyone please help has anyone heard of a gypsie family of the name foxton or foxon i believe they are from around edinbugh but travelled all over, my grt grandmother was emily foxton/foxon so i am told i would be gratefull for any help Davy Stewart Genealogy Syms/Sims Hi I am currently working on the Genealogy of my own family. My Surname is Scottish, of that I am sure. Our branch of the Sims/Simms family came to Ireland in the Plantations in the 1600\'s. According to an American Genealogist by the name of Almon J Sims we originally came from Yetholm. I am wondering whether you have ever come across the name of Sims or Simms in Yetholm? Also is there many Simpsons there? I would really be grateful for any information you may have on this. Kind Regards Gordon Syms Genealogy - Blythe My great great gran's father robert blythe was connected to charles faa blythe can u help with any more information thankyou Susan McBride Genealogy - Douglas Hi to hear from anyone that has photo,s of the douglas family my grt grt grandfather was hawick davy douglas who is in the kellso photo of the gypsie gathering after st james fair i have had some luck lately with someone sending a photo of his son charles douglas born 1873 but as yet had no luck with finding photoes of any more of the family is there anyone that can help please. Thanks Davy Stewart Genealogy - Affleck I have recently found a connection to a Bettie Affleck b 1765 in Yetholm.She was the daughter of William Affleck and Christian Hay. Bettie married a robert Black and lived in Hownam. If you can provide anything it would be appreciated. I am in Australia and have just made contact with an Affleck cousin in western Australia who told me about the Yetholm gypsies. Elizabeth Smith Genealogy - Johnson I'm hoping someone will be able to help me. i am trying to trace the johnson family who i believe were gypsies from yetholm. my greatgrandfather was born in yetholm as far as i can tell but i have no dates. his name was james and his wife was mary. They had three children,lily,james(later to become mp) and my grandfather john george who was born in 1905. i am only starting to trace my family tree but would welcome any information where possible. many thanks Helen Dempster Genealogy - Colville-Brown My wife and I will be visiting your town in July. I am looking for information on my great-great uncle Dr. Colville Brown born 1839 and died 1882. We plan on researching him and family while in Scotland. Any help you could give us would be appreciated. Thanks, Walt & Janet Lewis Genealogy - Yett Looking for any information on the name of YETT and the history of that name thank you for any assistence. Thanks Robert Yett Genealogy - Hope Hi .. seeking information on the Hope families that resided at Yetholm. I have recently discovered that my G.G.G. Grandfather was born at Yetholm in 1817. His name was David Hope and I believe that he was the son of James Hope and Janet Tait. Other names associated are Johnson/Johnston, and Hardie. Would dearly love to hear from anyone that is part of these families that may have information to share. Thank you, Suzanne Wilson Old Friends ? Hello.. i used to live just outside Yetholm for 3 years at Woodside Farm, and attended Kelso High School, best years of my life there :).. I was interested in trying to find out how many of my old friends still lived around the area.. or friends that had moved into Yetholm from other parts of the borders.. I miss the town greatly and would love to visit it again as soon as i am able.. hope all businesses are doing well.. Paul Forster Genealogy - Graham Just thought I'd drop a line to say hello. My associations are with the Graham's of Yetholm. Apparently there are quite a lot of us as I am finding out. I came to Yetholm last year and my visit was far too brief. I will visit again. Lesley Hancock Genealogy - Young My 3x greatparents John Young/Elizabeth Montgomery,were married in Yetholm,1817.John's parents were John Young/Elizabeth Tate, Although I now live in London,Iwas born in Duns.I hope to visit Yetholm in the summer,and wondered was there any written information that is available to check up and maybe trace further back. I did try to contact you over a year ago,but was having trouble sending and recieving e-mails,so if this queery is familiar I apoligise. Gerry Young Genealogy - Blythe I am the ggg grandson of Esther faa blythe. My father was from Sunderland Englend, he was John W. Jones. His Mother was Anne Heslam Blythe, daughter of Charles Blythe and Charlotte Heslam. Charles Blythe was the son of King Charles Faa Blythe. Are there any books that you can suggest that I may purchase? I would love to learn more about my ancestors and I have a sister who is planning on visiting Scotland this summer. Thank you, Kevin Jones Kevin C. Jones Upland, California U.S.A. Geneaology - Sim/Sym Dear Friends, Frankly, I am not quite sure whether I can bother you with my "genealogy" problem. Penetrating Internet,I found the information ( which is compatible one with my knowledge on English (rather Scottish) roots of Polish branch of Sym family). Namely, according to Almon J.Sims, (the American genealogist active in forties of last Century) names Sims or Simmms are ancient forms of Sym and moreover that at least American branch of Sym's family originated from Sym clan of Yetholm,Roxburgh County,Scotland. Dear Friends, if you are unable to provide me with any information on this issue, please forget about my e-letter. In any case,let me greet you, wishing the best. Antoni Sym (Poland) Genealogy - Douglas Hello, Can you help me please? The William Douglas listed on the Yetholm war memorial as having died in WW1 in 1917 was my Grandfather. I need to know if the Andrew Douglas and Walter Douglas also listed were his brothers and if so where Walter died and was buried. Also were they sons of Andrew & Mary neeTait Douglas and was she known as 'Potty Mary' My father was the only son among the six kids William had. My Aunt Liz was the oldest at about 13, my Dad was just 12 and his other sisters ranged down to my Aunt Ruby who was just 9 months. This generation was moving away from the gypsy way of life and were buying houses and cars and didn't much talk about their roots. Of course, when these people were alive, I wasn't very interested in this subject but now that they are all dead they cannot answer the questions I now find very interesting. I hope you will be able to confirm the veracity of the few facts at the top of this mail...........if not I will have to delve back into the morass of sorting out which Douglas married which Tait, Young or Blyth. Please help me put a green shoot on my family tree! Ken Douglas Genealogy - Scott / Glass Hello I am looking for information on the SCOTT / GLASS and GLASS SCOTT families who settled in Yetholm. These are Thomas Fiddes & Robina Hewat, William Scott & Jessie Robertson, George Scott & Janet Fiddes, Thomas Glass & Isabella Glass who had Annie Glass out of wedlock. Some of the other names from the family also from the Yetholm area is Margaret Skinner, William and Agnes Smart. The main family home was at Hay Hope Farm. Would anyone know if this is still standing or be kind enough to send me any photographs? Later on Andrew Scott lived at Mount View, again does know if this is still standing or be kind enough to send me any photographs. It would be really nice to hear from anyone that has a connection Kind wishes Amanda Hodson, South Manchester Genealogy - Edgar EDGAR family. We will be coming to Kirk Yetholm in June 2006, partially because we believe my wife\'s ancestors (Edgar) had a connection with the Border area, particularly with Wederlie. Any information on Edgar connections would be appreciated. John Leslie Genealogy - Young Hi, my GGGrandfather was Thomas Young and from Census info he was born around 1824 in Rothbury. My Grandmother always said the family were from Gypsies from Kirk Yetholm. Thomas married Mary Clark (b 1818 in Spittal) January 1847 at Lamberton Toll. They had children Ann Young (b 1847 in Berwick?), Elespeth Young (b 1849 in Berwick), Allen Young (b 1852 in Wallsend), Elizabeth Young (b 1854 in Wallsend), Mary Young (b 1857 in Wallsend), John Young my GGrandfather (b 1860 in Wallsend) and Thomas Young (b 1862 in Wallsend). Thus Thomas and Mary plus family moved south to Wallsend between 1847 and 1852. Can anyone help with 1851 and 1841 census records for the family and birth/christening information for Thomas? Also, can anyone confirm the link to the Youngs of Yetholm? Many thanks Peter Crowther Genealogy-Staward/Bolton/Young Since my original message in the Genealogy section I have found more relatives in Yetholm.John Staward mar.7 Feb 1833 to Sarah Young Children my GG Grandmother Helen 31 Dec 1825 & sister Isabella 25 Oct 1828. I have traced my family from that time but would be interested if anyone is connected or has any information. My GG Grandfather John Staward was a master baker in the area. I hope to get to Yetholm soon and I am very interested in all the local stories. I live in Australia Thank you Stoward Bolton Genealogy - Douglas I am searching for information on the history of the Douglas family for a friend whose mother was a Douglas. My friend was born in Kelsoe 88 years ago on Burns Night. Her father was head gardener there. I would be grateful for any information, no matter how general. Best wishes Christine Considine Geneaolgy Hall/Richardson Hi, I am trying to find out any information about Thomas Hall and his wife Ann Kennedy who lived in Yetholm in the 1780\'s. Any info would be much appreciated. Thanks. Ann Richardson Genealogy -Cockburn Can anyone help with history of past family? John Cockburn. Ann Dick William Cockburn (Primside Mill) Thanks Barry Cockburn Burial Records Could any one tell me where to find Birth and Burial information for Yetholm circa 1839 to 1855 as I believe some of my relatives are buried in Yetholm churchyard. Thank you John Middlemist Yetholm School I used to go to yetholm school around 94-96ish, just thought i'd say hi. (lived at woodside) Patrick Forster Genealogy - Herbert I submitted a DNA sample to the Sorenson Molecular Genealogy Foundation and when the Y chromosome results came back I found out I belonged to the J2 haplogroup. This is a quite unusual group and it indicates that my paternal line ancestors (father\'s father\'s father etc.) came from the fertile crescent region in the middle east. How did they end up in Yetholm? Two strong possibilities are that they came across as gypsies or with Roman troups which included Samartian cavalry and Iraqui bowmen. This makes the 1898 photo of the coronation of Charles Faa Blythe all the more intriguing. Standing on either side in the photo and holding spears are Robert and Andrew Herbert! Did a gypsy take on the Herbert name in former times to escape being hung? Did a Herbert lady have a liason with a gypsy? We may never know. Alternatively Dare Street ran through the region and Roman camps were situated nearby. Marriages with locals took place and many troups and camp supporters did not return to their original homelands. Have any males of known gypsy origin along their paternal line submitted DNA samples and obtained results? I would be most interested to hear from them. Ian Herbert P.S. Further to my message re DNA. Are there any males out there of possible Yetholm gypsy descent along their paternal line who would be willing to have a free DNA test? They can do so via the Sorenson Foundation. You do need to have family tree information going back four generations. Contact me for more details. Ian. Yetholm School Used to go to Yetholm school as a kid. 1982-85 ish. Thought i'd say hi! Greg Burke gregpatsa@aol.com Genealogy - Douglas Hello, I am beginning to trace my family tree and seek any information about a Douglas family in Yetholm in the late19c early 20c. My grandfather was William Douglas married to a Rebecca Butler and had 6 children. Elizabeth, Andrew-my father, Agnes, Mary, Lillian & Rebecca and he is on the village war memorialScots Guards as killed in ww1 on 23 July 1917 along with I think, his brother Arthur Army Veterinary Corps. I understand there was another brother, Zac Zachary and four sisters, Rachael, Peggy margaret?, Aggie Agnes?,& uncertain Cunnie/Connie. Their parents were Andrew Douglas, father and mother Mary, who I believe was known as 'Potty Mary' as she travelled the area exchanging clerts for crockery items. Any info you have to support these sketchy dtails or suggestions for other sources to pursue would be welcome. Thanks Ken Douglas Ken Douglas Genealogy - Veitch I am helping a young friend search for her ancestors who came from Kirk Yetholm, the family name is Vietch, family talk say's they lived in Yetholm Hall. Any help would be much appreciated. Eddie McCoy macoys@clear.net.nz History Scotland's champion runner during the period 1860- 1872 was a native of Yetholm.He invariably quoted Yetholm as his place of origin as shown in the many press reports of his races. Remarkably he went on to become equally famous as a golf club maker at Bruntsfield Links in Edinburgh. He was also a golf course designer and owned a golf clubhouse. His clubs were sold in large numbers in America and is well known to golf historians and collectors for his famous 1890 patent. Not bad for a local lad whose father, an agricultural labourer, who died when Tom was 13 years old. I am his great grandson .The amount of published information about him during my four years of resesrch is amazing. His wife was from Yetholm and they were married in Yetholm.I will be pleased to provide further information for you should you wish. mail@tcarruthers.freeserve.co.uk Reference the message about Scotlands champion runner and golf club maker, Thomas Carruthers, if anyone is interested, a 222 page book has recently been published on this famous Yetholm man -'Golf Club Maker/Thomas Carruthers 1840-1924'- ISBN 0954441648. It can be ordered through any bookshop quoting the above title or number. Genealogy - Tait Hi, I'm looking for any information on the TAIT family. George Tait was my grandmother's brother, her name was Agnes but she was always known as Pat. She married George Coulter and moved to Ancrum. George still lived in Yetholm in the 1980's. He was married to Doris and they had two sonS Euan and Neil. I'd love to hear from them or anyone who knew them. Thank you. Diane McCarogher Diane@dianemccarogher8.wanandoo.co.uk If either Diane or the Taits (or both) would like to pass us their correct e-mail addresses, we will be able to put you both in contact with each other. The e-mail addresses currently held are both incorrect Hello Yetholm Online, Thank you for passing George and Doris phone number on to me. I have already talked to Euan and hope to speak with Doris over the weekend. Due to my bad typing you don't have my correct e-mail address. I've checked it this time. Thanks for your help from em' and my family down here in London. Feeling very jealous of your lovely air and scenery at this time of year when pollution is high! Great website. Thanks again. Diane Genealogy - Herbert Hello UK Friends This is a brief note to update you on our plans for a reunion in 2007. The reunion is open to all the descendants of the families who went from the Wooler region to New Brunswick, Canada on the \'Cornelius\' in 1837. As you know, my great great grandfather Thomas Herbert and his wife Isabella Embleton were on board with their family, including my great grandfather Robert Herbert. He came to Australia from Canada in 1851. The reunion is also open to families who followed soon after to settle in Harvey, New Brunswick. Also in attendance will be descendants of William Wanless Herbert, the brother of Thomas, who came directly to Australia. I am particularly pleased that Ewen Herbert and his wife Betty will be coming together with some of their nephews and nieces. Ewen is the grandson of William Wanless Herbert. We are planning on events held over two weeks with the key events being scheduled for the middle weekend - Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd of September 2007. Because this is at the end of the holiday period some families won\'t be around for the second week but others will be staying on to enjoy time in the Border regions after the holiday rush is over. Ford Castle is to be the main venue for evening events and for accomodation. So far we have about 75 people (adults and children) who have firmly committed to attending the reuion. Ford accomodates about 90 maximum and I expect (hope) we will be looking for accomodation elsewhere too by the time the reunion comes around. The final schedule of events will depend on numbers and which week(s) people attend. Some tours and walks will be planned but most days we expect people to do self-guided tours, having armed them with maps of where their ancestors came from. My wife Pam and I know that two weeks is hardly enough to see everything (and everyone) related to just my family, let alone all the other tourist attractions in the region. One event that is firmly in our calendar is a church service at Kirk Yetholm on Sunday 2nd September 2007. I have been in touch with Reverend Robin McHaffie about this. We will likely follow up with lunch or an afternoon tea in Town Yetholm, depending on the service time. I plan to lead three walks. The first will be up Yeavering Bell and then up the Coquet Valley to \'Whitehall\' (the first know abode of my Herbert ancestors). The second walk will be to view \'Old Rookland\' behind Biddlestone (the third known abode of my Herbert ancestors). The third and most challenging walk will be across the Cheviot starting at \'Sourhope\' on Bowmont Water and finishing on the Wooler side at Harthope Burn, weather permitting. In all three cases we we expect people who can\'t manage the walks to come along and enjoy the scenery near these same starting and finishing venues. Alwinton Church and the \'Rose and Thistle\' hotel are places we will be visiting on the \'Old Rookland\' walk day. Al Robison is co-chairman of the organising committee. He resides in Houston, Texas. Two of great grandfather Robert\'s sisters married Robison girls. He also has an extra dose of Embleton genes due to cousins marrying. Also on our committee are Linda Harris (Al\'s sister who lives in Montana) and Ellis Craig, Tim Patterson and Bruce Elliott (all three reside in Ottawa) and Dann Craig from Calgary. Joecelean Swan Hall from Harvey, New Brunswick is a remarkable genealogist and an ex-officio member of our committee. Tim and Bruce have put up a website which I am sure you will enjoy investigating http://history.earthsci.carleton.ca/ The website is still under development but already has some great reading and viewing. Bruce Elliott is a professor of history, specialising in immigration patterns. We are fortunate that he has done so much work on the \'Cornelius\' immigrants and has volunteered to be on our committee and give a talk at the reunion. I also hope you enjoy viewing some of the photos I took in 2003 and 2004. If I have any captions wrong, or you have additional information about them, please let me know. We also have a yahoo groups website which people can join to read and send messages http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/2007-HarveyNB-WoolerUK/ You have to join this site but it is straight forward and there are no negatives in joining. That\'s all for now. Greetings to you all and I will keep you informed as our plans get more definite. I welcome any suggestions and comments. Best regards, Ian Herbert Ian Herbert Genealogy - Douglas Does anyone have info on the Douglas -gypsy- family esp David Douglas (Hawick Davie) featured in the photo of Kelso Fair 1886 ? David McBride David McBride Looking For ... I am from Tasmania, Australia and travelled extensively through Scotland in 1981 and 1983. When we stayed in Kirk Yetholm at the youth hostel we met many good friends, and I was wondering if you could help me by letting me know if they are contactable or whether or not they are still with us! Lets hope so. The people we met were Jock Tait (good darts player)Peter West (came and stayed in Tasmania with us for a while) Robbie West (pete\'s dad) and Gordon, who used to own the pub. (Great bangers and mash with onion rings!!!) Thank you and I hope you can help. I would especially like to get in touch with Peter West if possible. Many Thanks Paul von Stieglitz Paul von Stieglitz Genealogy - Blythe Hi All, Been a few years since I've been in Yetholm, still have a few relations living there, I have been researching the Yetholm Blythe and other related families since 1979, I have some info on Douglas's, Rutherford's, Tait's, Gorgdon's, Stewart's, and a few others. Any one who wants can get in touch as I'm trying to find any descendants, very interested in "family stories" as I have found an element of truth in most of them, not all, but most. I'm using a computer to store my data and so far have 10120 names, about three thousand are Blyth/e descendants, some others may be or do connect but as yet I have not found the connection. I've E-m'ed a few people who had queries on the list last night, even found a cousin whose E-m address I'd lost a few years ago. As I said, happy to hear from anyone. Nils Blyth (ggrandfather dropped the E when he came to Australia in 1883, always said it took up too much ink.) Nils Blyth Genealogy-Middlemist Hello - My 2nd Great Grandfather was in the 1841 Yetholm census as Andrew Middlemass/middlemess he married Elizabeth Noble circa 1838. Any other information about this couple would be most welcome eg births, marriage. Thank you John W Middlemist John W. Middlemist Genealogy - Palmer This is the second time I have been in touch, the first time was very vague. Now I know that Harry Palmer was my Great Uncle, he married Jane/June Blythe.This is where I am stuck. Any ideas at your end, are their any Blythes left that may be related?? Would be glad to hear from anyone!! toprise@tiscali.co.uk
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