From our files - Reflections from Ross-shire 25, 50 and 100 years ago
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25 years ago: From the edition of July 25, 1997
New peaks added to roster of Munros
Three new peaks in Wester Ross are amongst eight new Munros that have been added to the 277 that have officially existed since the 1980s.
However one top – Sgor an Iubhar in the Mamore Hills in Lochaber – is no longer a Munro giving a final adjusted figure of 284. The latest published list from the Scottish Mountaineering Club addresses an anomaly that has long existed in the Five Sisters of Kintail.
Although firmly entrenched on the Five Sisters' ridge, Sgurr na Carnach (3281 ft) was not previously included because it did not satisfy the requirement for height and distance between tops. Now it can take pride of place alongside its equally demanding neighbours.
Also hitting the high spots is Tom na Gruagaich (3020ft) on Beinn Alligin near Torridon, widely regarded as one of the jewels of Wester Ross. It is joined among the elite by Spidean Coire nan Clach (3183 ft) in neighbouring Beinn Eighe, slightly further east towards Kinlochewe. Sir Hugh Munro was working on a revised list when he died.
From the edition of July 2, 1972
Heatwave welcome as roses – and swimmers – come out in Dingwall
Following the chily and unseasonal start to summer, the present heatwave is doubly welcome.
Ross and Cromarty is enjoying the long sunny spells with temperatures soaring to the eighties. Here in Dingwall the magnificent display of roses in full bloom in practically every garden, large and small, is indeed a wondrous sight.
The volume of tourist traffic has increased considerably over the past week as the congestion on Dingwall's narrow High Street testifies.
A greater number of hikers is also passing through heavily burdened with their camping gear on the road to the west and the isles beyond. It is all a very welcome picture as the tourist trade is an important cog in the wheel of the economy.
The youth of Dingwall during the week have been flocking to the old mecca of local bathers, "The Jetty" at the Ferry, while some, youth far behind them, have been seeking the uplands and moorland rivers to derive the true benefits of this wonderful weather.
From the edition of July 21, 1922
Easter Ross poorhouse update report
At the quarterly meeting of the Board of Management of the Easter Ross Union Poorhouse held in the secretary's office, Tain, the governor reported that six deaths had taken place in the house during the last quarter, all between the ages of 81 and 88. He also reported that improvements to the handyman's home had been carried out to the satisfaction of the Board.
The secretary read out the annual report from the General Superintendent of the Scottish Board of Health which was considered very satisfactory.
It stated that the Poorhouse continues to be fully used: "At the date of my visit there were 45 inmates, a number of whim had been Old Age Pensioners who were no longer able to live in their own homes. The house retains its character for homeliness and comfort. Its administration reflects credit on the House Committee and on officials. The sick wards in particular receive careful attention."
The land cultivated extended to 21 acres.
