How two maritime disasters shook the Shetland Islands
BY a terrible grim coincidence, this week sees the anniversary of two of the worst disasters ever to happen in the Scottish fishing industry, and on both occasions it was the Shetland Islands which were afflicted by the tragic calamities that took place almost 50 years apart and cost the lives of 163 men.
The “haaf” fishing was carried out with lines, possibly up to six miles long, rather than nets, and the species they were seeking was cod which was salted onshore and sold to the Continent in vast tonnages. Very few areas of Scotland still ate salted cod which had once been a staple of the Scottish diet, but in Spain and Portugal in particular there was huge demand for Shetland’s produce.
One crew had a miraculous escape when they were picked up at the point of drowning by a passing Dutch vessel, the Edwards. Though happy to accommodate the salvaged crew, the Dutch captain was not willing or able to divert his ship so Tammy Hughson and his sons Willie and Lawrie gained a “holiday” in the US, the Edwards being set for Philadelphia.
No sooner were they many miles out to sea when a storm swiftly hurtled down from the direction of Iceland.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
'Scottish Power took £3000 from us in technical fault, I want an explanation'The unauthorised direct debit came out of their account despite their utility account being in credit.
Read more »
Dennistoun residents facing disruption as Scottish Water begins emergency worksFrom this weekend, Bellgrove Street will be closed from its junction with Duke Street to its junction with Reidvale Street while Scottish Water engineers undertake emergency sewer works.
Read more »
Cheap holidays on top luxe paradise islands for under £200 a nightThe secret to enjoying the most beautiful islands in the world without spending a fortune is venturing off the beaten path - you might just find paradise on a genuine budget
Read more »
Famous Scottish baker ups capacity by 100,000 more pies a weekA famous Scottish pie and pastry maker is creating the ability to bake 100,000 more pies a week after a £250,000 investment 🥧
Read more »
Scottish Government kicking the can down the road' on transport fares reviewThe number of Scots using public transport plummeted during the coronavirus pandemic with some services axed as a result.
Read more »