The History of Lochee

Old Lochee Book 1911.

From "Lochee" - As it was and is - by Alexander Elliot - 1911

Chapter 10

THE COX FAMILY.

IN the realm of commerce, Lochee, past and present, can point with justifiable gratification to an array of men who have borne distinguished parts in fostering our staple trade, and lent no unstinted aid in helping to build up the mercantile prosperity of the city. Of these, without doubt, the most outstanding is the Cox family, whose members were identified with the district long before Lochee even had the semblance of a location or name. Mr A. J. Warden, in his "Linen Trade, Ancient and Modern," referring to that fact, says: "They (the Messrs Cox) can trace their uninterrupted connection with the linen trade further back than any in the Dundee market." In an article on Liff and Benvie, written for the Statistical Account of Scotland of 1792 by the Rev. Dr Constable, a point of interest, as far as this family is concerned, is disclosed.

From that source it is learned that an ancestor had settled at west end of Lochee in times that might well be considered remote. In confirmation of this statement the doctor records:— "There is a family (Cox) who, without any change of circum­stances, unless what has been produced by the gradual and slow operation of time, now inherit the same spot cultivated by their forefathers prior to the era of the Reformation"—that is to say. in the days of Wishart, Knox, and Henry VIII. How many families, it may with propriety be asked, are there in the shire or in the city who can claim a lineage so venerable? Mr Warden adds that " the first of the linen manufacturers and merchants in Lochee, of whom any account is with certainty known, was James Cox, who was born in 1676—that is to say, when Charles II. was King—and who died in 1742." From that time till the present the Cox family have been prominently identified with the city and its commercial interests. Dr Constable, who, no doubt, was intimate with the family, says that when the first James Cox died he was succeeded by David, his son, who continued the business on similar lines. David enjoyed a long and prosperous career, and died in 1793. He in turn was followed by James, his son. A man of much resource, that gentleman not only increased his own business, but, despite ever-recurring stagnation and lapses in mercantile affairs in the town and shire, by ability and example fostered all kinds of manufactures in the neighbourhood. Mr Cox, too, was associated with George Dempster of Dunnichen and other gentlemen in establishing the Dundee Banking Company in 1777. When he came into possession the hand-looms at work numbered 280, and most of these either belonged to or were supervised by him. In 1816, Warden remarks, a fourth generation took up the continuity, another James Cox, son of the former owner, becoming proprietor. That gentleman is a conspicuous figure in the annals of the family. Far-seeing, energetic, and persevering as his father had been, he gave the concern a still greater impulse. Improved appliances were introduced, and the bleachfields, hitherto spacious, were extended. Nor did Mr Cox confine his efforts to Lochee. Districts far beyond its limits, where business could be transacted, were reached by this pushful man, with the result that the industry was quickened into a still healthier and livelier activity. Unfortunately Mr Cox's enterprise was interrupted, and its fruits marred by an untoward incident. In August 1819 a great fire broke out, and so serious was the loss entailed that most of the works had to be closed down. At the expiry of the lease, which occurred soon after, a removal was made to Foggyley—the site of the mansion and grounds of that name—where the concern was re-established. In mercantile circles Mr Cox was a striking personality, remarkable for shrewdness and wide knowledge of the markets. Full of years, this fine type of a Dundee merchant died at Foggyley in 1848.

In 1841 the great firm of Messrs Cox Brothers was founded. The gentlemen of whom it was composed were sons of the former proprietor, under whose tutelage they Avere early trained to a calling wherein they were destined to take a front rank. The firm was confined to James, William, Thomas, and George. A notable quartette! And few were better qualified to sustain their respective parts. Each was an expert in his own depart­ment, and individually brought to bear upon it a specialised knowledge. James, who was salesman, spread the productions of the firm far and wide, and secured connections with some of the best mercantile houses in the world. It has been said that where others failed, James, by his tact and admirable deportment, was successful. In the affairs of the firm he was the recognised head, though it was well known that in all commercial transactions the brothers acted with absolute unanimity. Of a different type, William was regarded by those competent to form an opinion as one of the best judges of yarns in the trade, and it was acknowledged that in adapting them to the needs of the market he had few equals. In all his dealings his uprightness of purpose won deserved recognition. The natural abilities of Thomas, with exceptional experience in finance, equipped him as a man of affairs, and the commercial side of the concern was deputed to him. Perhaps the most important role was that allocated to George, a qualified engineer. To him the entire control of the works was given. In each department the impress of a master mind is apparent—in construction, attention to detail, and in the productive power of appliances. These, combined, have made Camperdown Jute Works, in as far as administration and up-to-dateness is to be considered, a model of efficiency. Such, then, in brief, were the men who, collectively and individually, con­trolled this great establishment, and who unitedly were instrumental in bringing to fruition one of the greatest under­takings of its kind in the world.

Soon after the formation of the firm a great change—a revolution, it might be called—was foreshadowed in the application of mechanics to cloth production. The fate of the hand-loom, in fact, was anticipated. Despite the dislike evinced towards it, and the prophecies of speedy failure, it was evident that the power-loom had come to stay. In 1845 the Messrs Cox introduced their first loom of that type. This step was fraught with encouraging results—so important, indeed, were they that the firm was enabled in 1850 to establish the nucleus of the great works at Hairfield, within a short distance of Foggyley.

The practical adaptation of jute to manufacturing purposes for some years had been engaging the attention of those interested. Amongst the earliest to submit the fibre to analysis were the Messrs Cox. Though certain members of the profession regarded the innovation with a measure of distrust, and held aloof, this firm, with characteristic sagacity, foresaw its possible value, and acted accordingly. Their faith was well grounded, and the future amply justified it.
Seen from any standpoint, Camperdown Jute Works, with their thirty acres of industrial units culminating in one colossal establishment, are imposing. The most conspicuous section is the great spinning mill—seventy feet in height, and five hundred in length, these dimensions being embraced in a building of five storeys. Architectural elaboration had 110 place in the ideals of the projectors. Strength, spaciousness, and adaptability were their objectives. The mill, in which is centralised all necessary preparatory processes, was the growth of years, its completion being accomplished in 1868. Around it there clusters numerous auxiliaries, where artificers, versed in many handicrafts, are employed. Next in extent is the weaving department. Here, in one vast shed, a thousand power-looms are accommodated. When in operation, in their expanse, activity, and trimness, these collectively form one of the most interesting spectacles in the arena of labour. In all their ramifications, the technical equipment of the works is the finest extant. Some of the most efficient examples of scientific mechanism, as applied to manufactures, are the inventions of the firm itself. Driving power is supplied by engines of some 5000 indicated horse-power, and steam is generated from twenty-eight two-flued boilers. Electricity, too, enters largely into constructional economics, motors being introduced wherever they can be effectively applied.

The gigantic chimney, standing far apart, is the channel by which smoke from about sixty furnaces is dissipated at an altitude so lofty as to reduce any annoyance that may arise there from to a minimum. As this monumental fabric is an object of much attention, and, as a landmark, is seen over a radius of many miles, it may not be out of place to give a few details of the great structure. Erected in 1865-6, it presents the appearance of an Italian campanile, and is upreared upon a foundation of substantial rubble masonry built below the road level to a depth of about 20 feet and over 30 feet square. Above that point the aggregate weight of the superstructure is estimated at about 5000 tons. The formation of the column till it reaches an ornate heavily-railed balcony is quadrangular, the height at this point being about 230 feet, Beyond the balcony the supervening portion is narrower, octagonal in shape, and rises other 50 feet—thus giving the height of the stack from the ground level at 280 feet, or a total of 300 feet from the base of the foundations. Within the shaft an iron casing, 13 feet in diameter, is carried from the basement to the terminal at the top. Welded to the wall, it imparts greater stability. Access to the balcony is obtained by a hand-over-hand rail-ladder, fixed into an angle between the casing and the wall proper. With the exception of the base and the inner tube, the material used is parti-coloured brick, of which it was estimated upward of a million blocks were absorbed. The appearance of the chimney is relieved by a free adaptation of white brick, interspersed over the panels, pilasters, and styles. Lancet-shaped windows are inserted in several parts of the column, and these afford sufficient light to the interior when repairs are undertaken. It is understood that the total cost amounted to about £6000.

Another striking feature in the establishment is the clock chamber and bell tower. The height from ground to apex of cupola is 100 feet, and the chamber is about 14 feet square. The clock, by Benson of London, is a fine piece of workmanship. The dials, of which there are four, are each 7½ feet in diameter. After dark the chamber is lighted by electricity. Six bells, of various sizes, are hung in the tower. The great bell is 12 cwt. 2 qrs. 9 Ibs. It is hand-rung in the mornings, at meal hours, and at closing down. The hours, quarters, and half-hours are struck automatically. The tones, which can be heard at a great distance, have often been admired for their mellow richness.

In subsequent years the Messrs Cox, following the precedent set by their forefathers, inducted their sons into the business; and at a still later day this example has been replicated more or less by another generation. The continuity of the family's interest in the works, therefore, has been uninterrupted.

Though individually well suited to take part hi public life, with the exception of the senior neither of the brothers showed a desire to participate therein. In response to repeated solicitations Mr James Cox entered the Town Council in 1869. He was soon appointed to the magistracy, and thereafter the provostship was conferred upon him, the offices in each instance being filled with conspicuous dignity. Other honours followed. His appointments as Justice of the Peace and Deputy Lieutenant of Forfarshire were appropriate rewards for service well done. The launching of the Tay Bridge undertaking was probably the most important event in a long and busy life. If not the actual originator of the scheme, he was, it is understood, an accessory thereto. His keen mind fathomed its great possibilities. The bridging of the Tay—to link the northern and southern shores by a band of iron—had often formed the subject of debate, but by most people the idea was regarded as chimerical. The conception was brilliant, but the end unattainable. Great engineering achievements of that class were not conspicuous at that time in the enterprise of the world. Mechanical science had not reached a stage of development sufficiently pronounced as to indicate its wondrous powers. Taken in the concrete, however, the proposal was approved by some. The business man—clear­headed, calculating, shrewd, accustomed to note the changing signs of the times—the financier, the railway magnate, on. the other hand, could not divest himself of the conviction that a viaduct,  built  and  perfected in the manner proposed, would be fraught  with  commercial success. As a Director of the North British Railway Company, Mr Cox adopted the latter view, and as the bridge took form and shape from out the river bed, he watched its evolution with an anxious but practical eye. As chairman of the undertaking he realised to the fullest the responsibility that rested upon him. The first Tay Bridge was opened for traffic by Provost Robertson, Dundee, 31st May 1878, and met with disaster on the evening of Sunday, 28th December 1879. Unfortunate as that calamity was, it did not shake Mr Cox's confidence. Instead of the project being abandoned, it was re-entered upon with even greater assiduity. A massive structure, free from the faults and imperfections of its predecessor, arose in its place, and the anticipations of the promoters, despite discouragements and drawbacks, have been realised in the fullness of time.

In their benefactions Lochee has not been overlooked by the Messrs Cox. A public recreation ground is the gift of the firm; and the Library, Reading-room, and Baths are due to the liberality of Mr Thomas H. Cox. Towards the churches of his native place Mr Cox dealt liberally. St Luke's Parish Church (formerly United Presbyterian) was gifted by that gentleman to the Church of Scotland; and Lochee Parish Church was reconstructed and modernised at his cost. Lochee "Young Women's Christian Association in a great measure was initiated by Mr William Cox. The Messrs Cox attained long ages. James (Provost) died 1st December 1885, aged 78 years; Thomas, 1st January 1892, aged 74 years; William, 7th September 1894, aged 82 years; and George, 6th May 1899, aged 78 years. The firm was converted into a Limited Liability Company 1st February 1893. About five thousand workpeople are employed, and the output of the establishment is enormous.
If the family in the past has shown exceptional aptitude, no less can be claimed for those who are responsible for the management of the extensive concern at the present time. Mr Edward Cox, a gentleman well known far beyond the limit of business circles of the city, is perhaps the most outstanding. He is closely followed by Mr J. C. Methven, Mr Arthur Cox, Mr George Cox, Mr Theo. G. Luis, and Mr J. Ernest Cox.

MESSRS SPALDING & VALENTINE, LTD.

Mr Andrew Spalding and Mr W. E. H. Valentine, both of outstanding enterprise, deserve to rank amongst our industrial leaders. In 1873 these gentlemen entered into co-partnery and commenced business in Dundee. Subsequently, in 1877, a removal was made to Lochee, where Caledonian Works were established. Since that time many important enlargements have been made. In 1902 Pitalpin Works, in the vicinity, were acquired, and conducted conjointly with Caledonian Works. Pitalpin Works were erected about 1835 by Messrs Donald, and latterly they were owned by the late Mr A. A. Miln. Before entering into business on their own account, Mr Spalding and Mr Valentine individually underwent a comprehensive business training. Mr Spalding, a native of Blairgowrie, has passed most of his lifetime in Dundee. A man of concentrated action and possessed of a vigorous mind, he swerves not till his purpose is gained. Well adapted for a public career, though often asked he has declined to accede to the wishes of friends. In another sphere, however, he finds congenial gratification. Of the Church of Scotland he is a zealous supporter; and in this connection it is only right to state that there are a number of ameliorative agencies of a further afield, and interested himself in certain matters of public usefulness. To the cause of education—in particular the higher branches and those that embraced scientific technique—he assiduously devoted himself. Amongst his earliest efforts in that direction was the establishment of Lochee Science and Art Classes, of which he was principal director during the many years of their existence. These classes—a pioneer body, by the way— were the means by which many young men acquired a capable training in scientific mechanics at a time when technical education had not obtained the enlightened recognition it has since received. Mr Valentine took an active part in the furtherance of the Technical Institute. He was, besides, a Governor of University College and a member of University Council. The High School, however, claimed his most ardent attention. During his long connection with that popular academy he did splendid work, and few were more enthusiastic in keeping its educational reputation at a high standard. He was also honoured by the Chamber of Commerce, by which body he was raised to the coveted distinction of Chairman. Mr Valentine married a niece of Mrs Oliphant, the distinguished authoress, and personal friend of the late Queen Victoria. Mrs Oliphant was a frequent visitor at Elmwood, Mr Valentine's beautiful home in the vicinity of Lochee. Never robust, that esteemed gentleman, who was predeceased by his wife, died 12th October 1907, at the age of 58 years. Mr Athole F. Stewart, Mr Spalding's son-in-law, is now associated with him in the business.

KING'S CROSS WORKS.

These works, which form the principal industrial establishment at east end of Lochee, were established  early in 1874 by semi-private nature, each working silently, frictionless, and without ostentation, which are the recipients of his practical sympathy. Mr Spalding holds the office of Justice of the Peace for the County of the City.
Mr Valentine was a man of an entirely different type. Equally shrewd and active in the affairs of the firm, he nevertheless went Messrs A. W. & D. Fairweather. Mr A. W. Fairweather—a well-known public man, and one of the magistrates of the town— was a painter and decorator by profession, his place of business being in Albert Square. Mr David Fairweather, on the other hand, had received a good commercial training. The Messrs Fairweather retained possession of the concern only for a few months, after Avhich it became the property of Mr James Don and his partner, Mr A. Bethune Duncan, the latter gentle­man having become associated with Mr Don some time previous. Mr Don, before securing these works, in conjunction with Mi-John Butchart, engaged in various textile enterprises. Dying on 17th July 1898, he was succeeded by Mr William Don, his son, a man of acumen, sound capacity, and strong business instincts. In 1899 the firm became the owners of Mid Street Works, Dundee, which are conducted in conjunction with the establishment at King's Cross. To public affairs Mr Don devotes much attention. Entering the Town Council, November 1904, he quickly made his mark in the municipal arena. In 1906 he was elevated to the magistracy, and in 1910 the honour was repeated. For four years Mr Don held a most important convenership—that of the electricity department— and it was during his term of office that the generating station at Carolina Port was erected. In the equipment of this extensive undertaking, as well as branch sub-stations, which were built about the same time, Mr Don displayed the capabilities of an expert, his knowledge of technical details being minute and comprehensive. Apart from Town Council matters, he has done substantial work on other Boards, the affairs of which he has dealt with on progressive lines.
Mr Duncan, Mr Don's partner, is a man of other tastes. His habits are studious, and he leads a life of quiet, unassuming refinement. Although alive to the importance of keeping public organisations in a state of healthy activity, it is seldom he interferes in municipal or public affairs generally.

ANCRUM WORKS.

Mr George Stevenson, chief partner in the firm of Messrs George Stevenson & Co., Limited, Ancrum Carpet Works, was one of the most active public men of Dundee in recent times. A fine type of his class, for half a century he was identified with the textile industry of the city. In 1867 he became partner in the firm of Messrs J. & F. Stevenson, Forebank Works, Dundee. Upon a dissolution of the firm, he purchased in 1883 the works at Lochee which bear the above name. Eventually he was joined by James, a man of a high order of ability, who passed away in the prime of life, and other sons. Despite advanced years, Mr Stevenson in 1896 entered the town Council, by which body he was raised to the magistracy. Successively he was appointed to offices that involved much responsibility, the most important of which was convener of the gas department. It was whilst acting in the capacity of convener that his business acumen and constructive ability came prominently into the forefront. At the time of his appointment the gas department was in a state of transition. It was under his judicious supervision, therefore, that in due course it was transformed into one of the best of its kind in Scotland. A cautious man of affairs, he never allowed impulse to influence his better judgment. Twice he was elected to the magistracy, his deliberations on the bench being characterised by sound common sense intermixed with absolute impartiality and justice. The office of Justice of the Peace and other appointments he filled with unassuming fidelity. After twelve years of duty well done, Mr Stevenson retired into private life, the quietude of which he seemed to enjoy after the turmoil of civic diplomacy. About two years thereafter he was seized with sudden illness, and died, esteemed and honoured, at the age of 76 years.

MESSRS D. H. FLEMING, SONS, & CO.

The firm to which Gray Street Works belong has been identified with Lochee for a lengthened period. Mr David Hood Fleming, the senior partner, a native of Carnoustie, obtained his initial training in Dundee. Early in life he entered upon a business career at Cromwell Park, Perth. Removing to Dundee, he leased a factory in Hilltown, and at the expiry of his contract settled in commodious premises at Rosebank. About 1870 he acquired the works at Gray Street, where eventually he was joined by three of his sons. Mr Fleming paid close attention to business, and took no part in extraneous affairs. A man of fine sensibilities, he preferred rather the seclusion of his office or home to the stir of publicity. Mr Fleming died 27th January 1894. Mr Andrew Fleming, the eldest son, succeeded as managing partner, and conducted the business for a considerable time. Dying 1st October 1905, the works were acquired by Mr Philip Fleming, in whose hands they have since continued. Before Gray Street Works became the property of the Messrs Fleming, they were owned by several proprietors. Originally built, it is understood, by a Mr Mathew, an agriculturist of some note, they were purchased from that gentleman by Mr William Gray, who had carried on a flax-spinning business at Milton of Monifieth. Eventually they came into the possession of Mr Edward Parker, to whom the Messrs Fleming succeeded.
In Logie Mr John Gordon, a native of Aberdeenshire, was another notable person. Settling in that district about 1826 he engaged in manufacturing operations, his factory being of considerable dimensions. Mr Gordon was known ay a person of probity, and for many excellent qualities he was much respected. In the affairs of the East Free Church, then under the ministry of the Rev. T. B. Dodds, he took an active part, and by personal aid encouraged all its agencies.
Within comparatively recent years other firms, representing various industries, have been established in Lochee. These embrace Messrs McGregor & Balfour, millfurnishers, North Tay Works; Messrs Lee, Croll, & Co., engineers, Lawside Foundry; Messrs East Brothers, Cabinet and Upholstery Works; and extensive Linoleum Works in the vicinity.

MARCHBANKS : AN IDEAL SUBURBAN RESIDENCE.

Typical of an eighteenth century mansion, Marchbanks for many years was owned by Mr William Brown, one of the most enterprising of Dundee merchants. Mr Brown, it seems, entered into possession about 1820, having purchased from the previous proprietor, a Mr Patrick Brown, architect, who, by the way, was not a relative. The building, it is understood, was erected by that gentleman's father about 1735. Mr William Brown retained Marchbanks as a summer resort, his town residence being Spring Grove, Nethergate, which he built in 1850. Secluded, remote from turmoil, and surrounded with fine timber, Marchbanks was an ideal rural home, to which the family were greatly attached. Apart from the mansion there were other dwellings within the enclosure. These included Wellhead, which stood on rising ground near the eastern extremity of Burnside Street. Close by flowed a copious spring of fine water, which was drained into a well on the outside. Largely frequented by the public, the latter was known as the East Well. Oak Cottage, a pretty dwelling, was nearby, and Parkside lay some short distance to the north. Marchbanks and Parkside remain, but the others have long since been removed to make way for the extension of Camperdown Jute Works. When the grounds were intact the house was approached by an avenue which went direct from the lodge, and, trending westward at an angle, reached the hall entrance. With the construction of the Dundee and Newtyle Railway in 1860 the configuration of the ground underwent a change, a section of the line being projected through the centre. Mr Brown retained the property till his death in 1864. His name, however, is still associated with it, "Brown's Park" being familiar to most of the older inhabitants. Mr Brown spent most of his leisure in this desirable place, and took pleasure in adding to its beauty. His health was far from robust, a circumstance which rendered him for many years little else than an invalid. A man of refinement and literary culture, his reading was extensive. He wrote many detached pieces, and had a distinct taste for poesy. His poems, a volume of which was printed for private circulation, betray sentiment of a high order, and picturesquely reflect some of the scenes in the neighbourhood as he beheld them. Most of these poems were composed and written during his hours of illness, and helped to beguile the pain and the tedium of weary waiting, which too often are the accompaniments of a bed of sickness. The authorship of these poems has been ascribed to the elder brother, James Brown, of Lochton House. That, it is under­stood, is incorrect, as the whole of them were written by William, who was the younger of the two. An interesting pamphlet entitled "Reminiscences of Flaxspinning," in which the difficulties pioneers in the flax industry had to encounter are related in an informative manner, was also written by the latter gentleman.

Apart from Mr Brown's connection with Marchbanks, it possessed certain other elements of attraction. Several pre­ historic souvenirs were found in the vicinity. Within a few yards of the house, on the west side, there was a venerable egg-shaped stone, supported upon a low-set base. On the east side, and not far from the base of the great chimney of Camperdown Works, a cinerary urn and kistvaen or cist were discovered in a mound known as the "Knowey" during some excavations. The urn was retained by a member of the family, in whose possession it was in 1911. Originally Marchbanks, was twenty-six acres in extent, but, as stated, its dimensions were curtailed by the railway. The house and grounds subsequently went into the possession of the Messrs Cox.                          

THE ROLLOS: DESCENDANTS OF OLD FAMILY.

The Rollos, descendants of an ancient burghal family dating from 1560, became connected with Lochee about the middle of the eighteenth century, at which time David Rollo, who was born at Hilltown, Dundee, having gone abroad in his youth, returned from Jamaica, where he acquired a competency, and settled in Lochee. His first residence was The Cottage, in Liff Road. Later Mr Rollo became the Owner of the property known as Hairfield, which was named after his wife, Jackie Hair or Rollo. Thereon he erected Hairfield Cottage, where he resided till his death in 1808. George Hair Rollo, his eldest son, succeeded to Hairfield on the death of his mother. That gentleman, who never was married, resided there for over seventy years with two maiden sisters, the last survivor, Miss Jean Scott Rollo, dying in 1892 at the advanced age of 94 years. The elder Hood, the famous poet and humorist, and Mr Rollo were intimate friends. The intimacy began when Hood visited Dundee in early life, and was maintained through maturer years. Hood visited Rollo often at Hairfield, where happy nights were spent in each other's society. It was to Mr Rollo that the poet addressed some of his most important letters, and a poem, which was published for the first time in "Hood in Scotland" in 1885. The ill-fated "Dundee Guide," which was cast on the lines of Anstey's "Bath Guide," Hood also forwarded to Mr Rollo. Unfortunately the "Guide" was lost, and although in after years keen search was made it never was recovered. It is worthy of note that Mr David Rollo's daughter, and sister of Mr George Hair Rollo, married the Reverend Robert Morison. That lady was the mother of the Reverend Principal James Morison, LL.D., the founder of the Morisonian sect, otherwise known as the Evangelical Union. David Rollo, the youngest son, was a well-known public man in his day. Trained to the legal profession, he became one of the leading lawyers in the city. Assuming Mr Andrew Hendry as a partner, the firm of Messrs Rollo & Hendry for long ranked as one of our foremost legal firms. For a very long period the family was connected with the Nine Incorporated Trades, of which Mr Rollo held the important office of Clerk for thirty-one years. It was whilst he filled that position that he rendered the town signal service as one of the principal parties who were instrumental in securing the Morgan Bequest for the town. To the Trustees of the Morgan Hospital he acted as Clerk until his death. From 1855 till 1865 Mr Rollo represented Lochee at the Dundee Town Council; and in 1858, on the retiral of Mr John Ewan, he was appointed Provost ad interim, the duties attached being fulfilled with acceptance till the following year, when he declined re-election. As agent in Lochee of the Dundee Banking Company, Mr Rollo displayed expert business qualities; and latterly, when that concern was absorbed by the Royal Bank of Scotland, he continued to hold the appointment. This capable, unassuming man passed away on 30th March 1880, at the age of 72 years. On the death of his aunt, Mrs Jean Scott or Hair, Mr Rollo succeeded to the property of Bloomfield, the house having been built by that lady. After his death it was occupied by the family till 1889. At that date, along with Hairfield. it passed into the ownership of Mr George Addison Cox of Beechwood, whose property it adjoins. The family is still represented by Mr George Rollo, of Newport and Dundee; and other relatives.

MR JAMES SCOTT, A PUBLIC-SPIRITED PIONEER.

To most of the inhabitants of Lochee the name of Mr James Scott is unknown—to the older generation at best it can only be but a memory. Yet in his time Lochee owed much to that gentleman. To him they were indebted, indeed, for the enjoyment of several social, ecclesiastical, and educational privileges which, without his helpful assistance, might have long-been delayed. In the early decades of the nineteenth century Mr Scott probably was the most outstanding personality in Lochee, and from all that can be learned he deserved the distinction. A native of Arbroath, he seems to have settled in the locality about the end of the eighteenth century, and entered upon the profession of agricultural auctioneer and appraiser. Having offices in Lochee and Dundee, he secured a wide connection, and enjoyed the confidence of many friends. Although actively engaged in business, he gave much attention to public affairs; and movements which had for their aim the betterment of the people received his willing support. When he settled in our midst Lochee was located at west end, but indications were not awanting that a general migration eastward was imminent. Mr Scott was amongst the earliest to settle on new High Street, and about 1820 built for his own use a self-contained house at a convenient part of that thoroughfare. The structure, which adjoins the new branch of the Dundee Savings Bank, has since been modernised, and the ground flat converted into business premises. Some time subsequent to the aforesaid date the houses at corner of Marshall Street and Scott's Angle were built, Mr Scott's intention being to let certain parts of them for manufacturing operations. Other properties in the neighbourhood were owned by him, notably the "Little Kirkie" in West Mid Street. In church affairs Mr Scott was a warm partisan. A staunch Seceder, he took an active part in securing a suitable place of worship (now St Luke's) for the United Associate Congregation (afterwards United Presbyterian). Weavers' Lodges at the beginning of the century were powerful bodies, and Lochee Weaver Lodge, like the others, was a strong combination. Mr Scott was associated with the latter, and it was largely through his influence that the famous old hall which bears that name was built. To educational matters he gave practical attention. Schoolhouses were still in a primitive state as far as accommodation went. Mr Scott, however, of his own goodwill, rose to the occasion, and erected a school and teacher's house combined in St Ann Street. Both were placed under the supervision of the U.P. congregation, without entailing any expense upon that body. The use of the school and dwelling-house was given free of rent. Mr Scott, however, as already mentioned, in especial should be remembered as the pioneer of the postal system in Locb.ee and district. This able, public-spirited gentleman assisted in other laudable directions, and it is well known that the poor and needy had in him a steadfast helper and friend. His eldest daughter became the wife of the Rev. David Marshall, of the United Presbyterian Church, and their family were long and honourably associated with Lochee. Mr Scott died 23rd May 1847.

MR WILLIAM REID, BUILDER AND ARCHITECT.

Mr William Reid, builder, was a person of, considerable standing in Lochee for many years, his profession bringing him largely before the public. About 1800 he was proprietor of a quarry in the locality now known as Gray Street, and as Dundee was beginning to extend its boundaries, he had ample outlet for material. To his profession as quarrymaster he supplemented those of builder and architect. In these separate capacities he was largely employed. In Lochee, latterly, he became; prominent, and was entrusted with several important undertakings. These included the erection of Weavers' Hall, Secession Church (St Luke's), and the Chapel of Ease (Parish Church), the architectural designs for each, too, being his handiwork. The principal properties in Lochee at that date were designed and built by Mr. Reid. Many commissions were carried out under his auspices in Dundee and neigh­bourhood, and for a long period he was one of the leading builders in the district. An enthusiastic member of the Weaver Lodge, he signalised his connection by inserting a heavy carved stone representing the striking emblems of the craft in the front elevation of a building in upper High Street. Mr Reid was colloquially addressed as "The Baron,"by which designation he was remembered long after his demise. After a lengthened and useful career he passed away on 19th September 1849, at the age of seventy-seven years. His remains were interred in the churchyard of Mains, where an elaborate monument marks his last resting-place.

MR JAMES PERRIE, A SHREWD PERSONALITY.

A native of Burrelton, near Coupar Angus, like many sturdy sons of Strathmore, Mr James Perrie gravitated citywards early in life. Settling in Lochee, he began business as a baker, and followed that profession close on half a century, when he retired. Apart from his own personal and professional affairs, he devoted himself with much assiduity to municipal matters. In that respect he achieved a unique record. Entering the Town Council in 1876, for thirty-five years he represented Lochee at that Board, and only on one occasion was he opposed. During his public career he held successively many offices. Repeatedly he was appointed to the magistracy—in one instance holding that office five years consecutively—and on different occasions he was convener of large departments. In this latter connection, whilst convener of the Water Committee, the reservoir at Lintrathen underwent an important structural change whereby its storage capacity was enormously added to. This was effected in 1911, when the embankment was raised from three to four feet, a work which demanded close attention and much engineering skill. Apart from technical work, Mr Perrie showed the utmost solicitude for the proper carrying out of the extension, and superintended the details, preliminary and final, with an assiduity that won the approval of his colleagues, his desire to conserve the interests of the city being duly appreciated. fine type of a pawky Scotchman, his shrewdness, which was proverbial, was only surpassed by the kindliness of his heart.
In the neighbourhood of Lochee there are a number of favourite summer resorts, each being as attractive for the beautiful scenery amidst which it is set as for bracing and health-giving climate. Perhaps the most popular are Birkhill Feus, Muirhead, and Back Muir. The latter, in point of age, is by far the oldest, as the aggregation of crofts, of which it is principally composed, have been under cultivation for a lengthened period. These crofts or pendicles stretch across Strathdichty from the road to Coupar Angus to the Dichty stream. In one of these quaint old-world domiciles James Myles, the author of "Rambles in Forfarshire," "The Factory Boy," &c., was born 22nd November 1818. His brother Peter, who was also reared in. the same place, became the respected parish minister of Monifieth. The Myles family was indeed a remarkable one, the whole of the members showing intellectual grit far above the commonplace.

Birkhill or "Birkie," a term by which it is better known, is comparatively modern. The ground upon which it is built less than a century ago was a broom-covered moor on the estate of Birkhill, belonging to Wedderburn of that ilk. The first house—a roadside tavern—was erected in 1805 on the site of the present inn, the proprietor having removed from the small hamlet of Brewhead—now demolished—near the villa of that name, a short distance eastward. A survey of the ground was made in 1829, and a feuing plan prepared. As the estate was entailed leases were only granted for ninety-nine years, these subsequently, by arrangement, being converted into perpetual feus. The houses are arranged in regular formation, and present a compact, well-defined building scheme. A water supply from Lintrathen was introduced into Birkhill and Muirhead in 1888, and a system of drainage, also applicable to both, was laid down in 1906. In the same year a pleasure ground known, as the "Roundie" was opened for the use of residenters and the public. A connection with, the city is regularly maintained by means of motor-buses. Birkhill and Muirhead and adjacent villages as health-giving centres are much resorted to. It is only a question of time when these pretty places will be incorporated with and become a suburban annexe of the city.