THE childhood memories of a Stonehaven lass growing up in the 1950s have been gathered in a booklet which is now for sale, with proceeds going to the Tolbooth Museum.
Madge Mackie’s recollections span the decades from her birth in the late 1940s – and will resonate with anyone who has lived in Stonehaven or has an interest in its heritage. A shared social history comes alive from the very beginning of Madge’s account, when she describes the living conditions enjoyed by her family, the Watts. They had no electricity, but their running water was the envy of her grannie, who is pictured drawing water at Duthie Well.
Madge grew up at 96 High Street, so it will come as no surprise to learn she gives a good account of her time at Dunnottar Primary School and of the fireballs procession in the days before health and safety rules. Shops long gone are brought back to life by a wee girl buying her essential sweeties and loaves of bread – who remembers Donald’s and Aitkens the Bakers, and Mathieson’s home made confectionery or Katie Cormack’s with penny dainties and lucky bags?
In her writing which is as playful as it is informed, Madge takes the reader on a childhood romp to familiar locations throughout the Auld Toon, sharing her youthful pastimes and encounters, and providing an insight into life around the harbour and the changes brought by the passage of time.
Costing £5, the booklet has a foreword by TV journalist Paddy Christie and would make an excellent Christmas gift.
It is for sale at: Giulianottis, All Wrapped Up, Cut n Go and Cool Gourmet. It is also available at the Tolbooth Museum and online at https://www.stonehaventolbooth.co.uk
