Into the Archives: Records reveal role of poorhouse relief on Black Isle in days gone by

This week we are moving our focus to the Parish of Rosemarkie on the northern shore of the Moray Firth. The parish is surrounded by the neighbouring parishes of Resolis, Cromarty and Avoch and includes the former Royal Burgh of Fortrose.

The Poor Law Amendment (Scotland) Act of 1845 established Parochial Boards (later Parish Councils) in each parish. They administered funds for the poor, gradually removing the responsibility from the church. Those unable to support themselves were eligible to apply for help. This included the elderly, the young and those with a mental or physical disability (including pregnancy).

After an application for help was submitted it was discussed at the Parochial Board meeting where they decided if someone should receive relief, and whether that would be indoor or outdoor relief. Outdoor relief could come in the form of money or items such as clothing, coal, or repairs to houses. Indoor meant the applicant would be admitted to the local poor house. The minutes could also record a “roll of paupers” which details individuals’ names, residence, age, how much financial help they received and any other help and remarks.

In the Parish of Rosemarkie, the Black Isle Combination Poorhouse was built in 1859 outside Fortrose. It served Avoch, Cromarty, Killearnan, Knockbain, Resolis, Rosemarkie and Urquhart. It became the Ness House Poor Law Institution after 1930 and was scheduled for closure in 1946.

At a meeting on March 26, 1868 we see the decision for “indoor relief to be offered to Grace Hossack and 2 children, Fortrose”. It was recorded that Grace Hossack was 40 and single with her occupation listed as “servant”. After receiving financial help since January 1868, Grace and her two youngest children Lydia (8) and Angus (1), were admitted to the Black Isle Combination Poorhouse.

Some years later, in February 1896 and at the age of 67, Grace again applied for help. Her entry in the General Register of Poor shows she was still living in Fortrose, with her occupation “charwoman”. She is in need of support as she is described as wholly disabled due to “effects of a severe burning”. Grace was removed from the register of poor in August 1896 before being readmitted in December 1897 and continued to receive help until her death on January 6, 1911.

Poor relief records including minute books, register of applications and general registers are fascinating records and can be a great resource for family historians but please bear in mind they are subject to a 100-year closure period.

* Archives for Beginners: If you are interested in finding out more about the records at Highland Archive Centre and how they can help your research, these classes could be for you. Covering school, property, church, poor relief and family and estate records they will be delivered online on Fridays from March 5-April 16 (excluding April 2) from 10am-noon. £60/£48 concession. For more information or to book email archives@highlifehighland.com

Related: Reflections from Ross-shire 100, 50 and 25 years ago

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