1997 Guest Book
Messages posted between January and December 1997
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Barbara Joyce Cusitar Belanger <agassiz@escape.ca>
Winnipeg, MB Canada - Tuesday, December 30, 1997 at 20:33:51 (EST)

Have visited your research pages again and thankyou for all the work you have undertaken for the benefit of others. I am descended from Capt. John Ogilvie born 1812/13 Unst,Shetland m 26/8/1841 to Euphemia Garrioch,Unst,Shetland.I am having difficulty tracing his parents. Is there anyone who can help please?Thanks again and Happy New Year to all readers.
Roy Woolley <virginia@gil.com.au>
Brisbane, Qld Australia - Saturday, December 27, 1997 at 19:58:02 (EST)

Very interesting! Must have taken you a lot of time to compile. Have considered doing some simple family tree stuff myself, but seeing all your material, I don't think I'll start on the project! Garethy
Gareth Tilsley <gtilsley@dynachem.mortonintl.com>
Warrington, UK - Saturday, December 27, 1997 at 05:48:31 (EST)

Found the site fascinating and wonderful! Would love to hear from other BUDGE family from Orkney. Does anyone have any information on Magnus BUDGE/Margaret MOWAT? Look forward to returning to this site soon.
Sharon Laing (BUDGE) <warrickl@fastlink.com.au>
Sydney, nsw Australia - Monday, December 22, 1997 at 19:06:01 (EST)

MUIR: Looking for any info relating to MUIRs. Am tackling trying to get as many of us linked together as possible. "My" branch of MUIRs are actually from the Glasgow/Paisley/ Kilmarnock area of Scotland, but am starting a project with the Orkneys of trying to weave the Mormon IGI records on MUIRs in the Orkneys together. Would be very grateful of anyone willing to share MUIR info with me & am quite willing to share what I have. Thanks much. Randy Muir
Randy Muir <tree9616@aol.com>
USA - Monday, December 22, 1997 at 13:17:45 (EST)

My G.G.Grandparents, James Milne and Betsy Muir migrated from Sanday, Orkney to Australia 30 January, 1852. James' parents were William Milne & Janet Goar. Betsy's parents were Stephen Muir and Elisabeth Slatter. I have only just found your site and have had a quick look at the 1841 census. It's great. Thanks. I will return again when I have more time. Email me if you would like more info. on my ancestors or descendants. Regards Joan Smith
Mrs. Joan Smith <jatraka@alphalink.com.au>
Melbourne, Vic Australia - Monday, December 22, 1997 at 04:13:24 (EST)

My grandfather was from Birsay, Thomas D. Spence. I can share some info. and photos back to 1870's of John Spence b. 1800 d. 1889 and Ann spence (nee Sinclair) b. 1802 d. 1878 Also of Jane spence (nee Flett) b. 1844 d. 1937 (wife of John Spence) at Hayon farm. Thanks for this website. I hope to spend more time here.
Terri Spence Groves <spgtlg@stl-online.net>
MMO USA - Sunday, December 21, 1997 at 22:33:25 (EST)

Thank you for this site.
Dennis E. Budge <dennis.budge@windriver.net>
Rainier, Or USA - Sunday, December 21, 1997 at 00:31:40 (EST)

Looking for decendants of Thomas and Isobella Halcro, they are my Great Great Grandparents.
Norma Halcro <NHalcro@Juno.com>
NJ USA - Thursday, December 18, 1997 at 10:50:51 (EST)

Great site, impressive amount of work. Have you run across the name Budge? Thats our real family name and in Orphir their apparently is still the Budge House, where my Great Grandfather was raised. Don't know much about it past that. Again, great site, Rob
Gordon Rob Roy Burgess <burgess@fig.cox.miami.edu>
Davie, FL USA - Thursday, December 18, 1997 at 00:20:25 (EST)

I am intrested in Gullion history and family tree.
Fred Gullion <egullion@venus.net>
USA - Wednesday, December 17, 1997 at 16:18:24 (EST)

a collateral ancestor, alexander russell, married isabella [bell] turfus. i am interested to know if you believe that general george armstrong custer was a descendant of orkney. look forward to receiving your reply.
peter russell <sopharana@clara.net>
bexleyheath, kent england - Sunday, December 14, 1997 at 06:16:06 (EST)

Looking for Tulloch's that came from North Maving, and Lerwick. My g-g-g-grandparents came from there in 1872/73. Their names were James Tulloch and Jean Sinclair. I am always happy to hear from anyone that may have information. Paula Easton
Paula E Easton <gentech@uniserve.com>
Delta, BC Canada - Tuesday, December 09, 1997 at 16:57:52 (EST)

Wanted to say Hi, and have a happy Holiday
Jerry Hasky <Jhasky@aol.com>
Prince George , Va USA - Tuesday, December 09, 1997 at 16:27:49 (EST)

Researching Harold (Harrold) from Rousay...Found some in your list. Any more info on Janet Harrold, father James, mother Christian Mowatt?
Robert Carr <carrr@internorth.com>
Yellowknife, NT Canada - Sunday, December 07, 1997 at 19:43:31 (EST)

I was born on Helliar Holm lighthouse 1964, left orkney 1968 but have visited every year since. family still in stromness hoy kirkwall
jane shaw nee shearer <furness-cs.demon.co.uk>
barrow, cumbria Uk - Friday, December 05, 1997 at 06:09:50 (EST)

I'm interested to contact more people with my surname. My family came from Holm in Orkney about 1820 to Sunderland in the North of England.
D. Matches <dmatches@cleveland.ac.uk>
England - Wednesday, December 03, 1997 at 08:18:20 (EST)

any info on Hewison would be greatly appreciated
Leah <shaye27@email.msn.com>
ab USA - Wednesday, December 03, 1997 at 00:34:15 (EST)

Ny Husband's Gr-Grandfather was James Clouston Hourston Born 1843 in the Parish of Harray. I am interested in any Clouston or Hourston familes living in Harray in the 1800's. Thank you.
Dolly Robinson <dolly@sprint.ca>
Burnaby, B.C. Canada - Tuesday, December 02, 1997 at 19:35:35 (EST)

My Husbands Gr-Grandfather was James Clouston Hourston Born 1843 in the Parish of Harray, Orkney. Iam interested in any Clouston or Hourston familes living in Harray in the 1800's
Dolly Robinson <dolly@sprint.ca>
Burnaby, B.C. Canada - Tuesday, December 02, 1997 at 19:26:24 (EST)

Hello!
Frank W. Groundwater <71231.3455@compuserve.com>
Olympia, WA USA - Tuesday, December 02, 1997 at 18:44:23 (EST)

am interested about the inkster family history in the orkney isles
shirley leach <jesse@prcn.org>
powell river, bc canada - Tuesday, December 02, 1997 at 12:23:22 (EST)

My 6x great grandparents were James Clouston(c1723-)and Isobel Smith (?), married 18 November 1730, Firth & Stennes, Orkney Islands. My other 2xgreat grandparents were William Heddle (1827-1864) - parents William Heddle and Jane (?) and Mary Clouston (1827-1916)- parents: Joseph Clouston (1792-) and Elizabeth (Betty) Edmond (1801). Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to look at the indexes of 'my people'.
Elly Hill <yama@winshop.com.au>
Currumbin Waters, Qld Australia - Monday, December 01, 1997 at 09:10:28 (EST)

My 6x great grandparetns were James Clouston(c1723-)and Isobel Smith (?), married 18 November 1730, Firth & Stennes, Orkney Islands. My other 2xgreat grandparents were William Heddle (1827-1864) - parents William Heddle and Jane?) and Mary Clouston (1827-1916)- parents: Joseph Clouston (1792- and Elizabeth (Betty) Edmond (1801). Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to look at the indexes of 'my people'.
Elly Hill <yama@winshop.com.au>
Currumbin Waters, Qld Australia - Monday, December 01, 1997 at 09:08:32 (EST)

Looking for relations of Thomas Moodie b.1805 married Anne Driver abt. 1834 in Ireland had 12 children one dau. born Hacketstown, Co. Carlow July, 1838. died Morris Manitoba 1896
Robert Brewitt <brewitt@sprint.ca>
London, Ont. Canada - Thursday, November 27, 1997 at 23:29:04 (EST)

Nice work, keep it up.
Lance Groundwater <walrus@alaska.net>
Valdez, Ak USA - Wednesday, November 26, 1997 at 13:50:11 (EST)

Dear Walt & Nancy, What a great family you have and what a great web page! We are grateful for your very special friendship...Frank, Jeanette and all the Villaloboses
Frank & Jeanette Villalobos <villa@pacbell.net>
Santa Ana, ca USA - Monday, November 24, 1997 at 13:40:26 (EST)

Just read through some of your page. for the first time. Neat! But who is Walt? It would appear he is a huge help to a lot of people! How does one access the IGI on the Internet, Walt? Also don't know anything about the Genealogy Chat page. Would dearly love to access it, as I'm having trouble tracking down some HOWES in the U.S. - Connecticut & N.Y. Many thanks Walt - sounds like you're a great source of information! Jane Martin.
Jane Martin <wem.jim@sympatico>
Scarborough,(Toronto), ON Canada - Monday, November 24, 1997 at 12:00:05 (EST)

Heppy to find your site. Doing genealogy on the MOWAT name. Mine came from Swanney Farm & other places on the main island there. Hope to find even more info than I already have.
Jane Martin <wem.jim@sympatico.ca>
Scarborough, OOnt Canada - Monday, November 24, 1997 at 11:31:51 (EST)

I am researching the Scottish families of: William Spence, born --/--/1781, married to Katharine Irvine, born--/--/1758 in Scotland. William Spence died in 18-- and is buried in Scotland. Katharine Irvine was born --/--/1785 in Scotland, married 11/16/1784 in Scotland and died and buried in 18--in Scotland. Father of William Spence was John Spence, born --/--/1734 in Scotland, married to Anne Onand born in --/--/17-- in Scotland, died and buried in 17-- in Scotland. Father of Katharine Irvine was Magness Irvine, born --/--/17-- in Scotland, married --/--/17-- in Scotland to Anne Irvine, born --/--/17-- in Scotland, Married to Magness Irvine in 17-- and both died in 17-- and are buried in Scotland.
Evelyn Daniels Hansson <rethanss@iclub.org>
RIchmond , KY USA - Saturday, November 22, 1997 at 19:41:23 (EST)

I am researching the Scottish families of: William Spence, born --/--/1781, married to Katharine Irvine, born--/--/1758 in Scotland. William Spence died in 18-- and is buried in Scotland. Katharine Irvine was born --/--/1785 in Scotland, married 11/16/1784 in Scotland and died and buried in 18--in Scotland. Father of William Spence was John Spence, born --/--/1734 in Scotland, married to Anne Onand born in --/--/17-- in Scotland, died and buried in 17-- in Scotland. Father of Katharine Irvine was Magness Irvine, born --/--/17-- in Scotland, married --/--/17-- in Scotland to Anne Irvine, born --/--/17-- in Scotland, Married to Magness Irvine in 17-- and both died in 17-- and are buried in Scotland.
Evelyn Daniels Hansson <rethanss@iclub.org>
RIchmond , KY USA - Saturday, November 22, 1997 at 19:38:04 (EST)

Just looked in to see if there was anything on Harrold.
Thomas Harrold <thomash@citenet.net>
Montreal, Que Canada - Saturday, November 22, 1997 at 09:31:49 (EST)

Spence, Onand, Irvine,
Evelyn Daniels Hansson <rethanss@iclub.org>
Richmond, Kentucky USA - Friday, November 21, 1997 at 20:42:27 (EST)

What a find! I'm sure this will keep my father busy in his retirement. He is trying to trace the family history back to the Orkneys.
Stewart Rendall <tabbycat@interalpha.co.uk>
Southampton, Hants. UK - Friday, November 21, 1997 at 11:12:08 (EST)

This is an excellent web site. I need some help with searching for BAIKIE information. My great-grandfather was Frederick Walker Scott Baikie and his son (my grandfather) was Frederick Walker Baikie born in Leith D.O.B. 10/10/10. I know this isn't much but it's all I have. It seems I have a gap between my family's move from Orkney to Edinburgh. I live in Australia and would be interested to hear from Baikie's here - or anywhere for that matter. I look forward to hearing some news. Regards, Fiona Baikie
Fiona Baikie <fiona_baikie@uow.edu.au>
AUSTRALIA - Thursday, November 20, 1997 at 19:37:46 (EST)

This is an excellent web site. I need some help with searching for BAIKIE information. My great-grandfather was Frederick Walker Scott Baikie and his son (my grandfather) was Frederick Walker Baikie born in Leith D.O.B. 10/10/10. I know this isn't much but it's all I have. It seems I have a gap between my family's move from Orkney to Edinburgh. I live in Australia and would be interested to hear from Baikie's here - or anywhere for that matter. I look forward to hearing some news. Regards, Fiona Baikie
Fiona Baikie
AUSTRALIA - Thursday, November 20, 1997 at 19:36:42 (EST)

First time visitor
Henry Ritchie Yorston <hryorston@aol.com>
Paradise Valley, Az. USA - Thursday, November 20, 1997 at 18:50:09 (EST)

First time visitor
Henry Ritchie Yorston <hryorston@aol.com>
Paradise Valley, Az. USA - Thursday, November 20, 1997 at 18:45:08 (EST)

Dear Walt & Nancy.....We are not only very impressed with your extensively researched and beautifully presented genealogical website, we are also highly impressed with your very handsome, intelligent, well-mannered son Ken. We were lucky enough to meet him last month when he was down, during REED's Fall- break. He was quite the gentleman! We hope you were as impressed with our magnificent daughter! (They're so CUTE together, don't you think?) Sincerely, Nikole's family (Kelly, Susan & Kyle)
Susan Carroll Ferree <OnlyZool@aol.com>
Hawthorne, CA USA - Wednesday, November 19, 1997 at 21:38:31 (EST)

First time in. It looks great. I'm looking for any info on the SPENCES in the Orkneys. My dad emigrated in 1927. I'm also looking for Norquoys, Comloquoys, Mowats, and Robsons. Thanks to all.
Jim Spence <qtnsngl@netcom.ca>
Brantford, Ont Canada - Wednesday, November 19, 1997 at 14:23:09 (EST)

I am hoping for and family connections to : James Maxwell Spence, born 1803 Orkney, parents = John Spence & Mary Crawford. James married 19 Mar 1829 Kirkwall, Shapinsay to Jane Guthrie, born 1805 Orkney parents = David Guthrie & Margaret Williamson. James & Jane migrated to Australia 1852 settled Creswick area, Vic Aus, James died 1877 Jane died 1897.
ian Jennings <jennings@lin.cbl.com.au>
ballarat, vic Australia - Wednesday, November 19, 1997 at 03:23:09 (EST)

y father was born on South Ronaldsay August 1882,his full name was George Alexander Annal,his father's name was Peter Annal,his mother's maiden name was Ann Ryrie.I would be grateful for any genealogical information that might be available.Thanks.
Robert J. Annal <Rannal@worldnet.att.net>
Barstow, CA USA - Friday, November 14, 1997 at 00:38:26 (EST)

Looking to see if there are any Linklater or Kirkness names in your family tree. My maternal grandparents were of Scottish descent associated with the Hudson Bay Co. in Norway House and area and Moose Factory and area. Just starting to research, I wish I had more time.
Marilyn Plourde <kinogami@cancom.net>
Chapleau, Ont. Canada - Thursday, November 13, 1997 at 19:48:40 (EST)

Hello, I guess I all I can say right now is my mother's maiden name is Annal (I'm not sure how she spells it) But it's Ruth Annal. I'm not sure who her father was but I'm pretty sure he came from Scotland. I got this site address from a cousin of mine and thought it would check it out. I'm proud to know my ancesters came from Scotland and I would like to learn what I can about them. Thank you.
Phillip Prentice <Phil-barb@juno.com>
Brockton, Ma USA - Wednesday, November 12, 1997 at 17:42:51 (EST)

Great web page!! Have you or anybody out there ever come across the name MONTAGUE in connection with Orkney? My g-g-gfather, John James MONTAGUE apparently came to Labrador with the Hudson's Bay Company in 1874. Any and all info appreciated!!
Barry Perrault <perrault@geocities.com>
Halifax, NS Canada - Wednesday, November 12, 1997 at 09:00:41 (EST)

Great Web site. Just starting to research ancestors of my great grandfather & grandmother John Stout & Margaret Rendall of KIRKWALL .
Ken Campbell <Cambeul@autobahn.mb.ca>
Winnipeg, MB Canada - Sunday, November 09, 1997 at 13:03:45 (EST)

Your site is wonderful. I am looking for links between Wisehart and Wishart.
Linda Wisehart <wisehart@blueriver.net>
Campbellsburg, IN USA - Saturday, November 08, 1997 at 22:05:31 (EST)

One of my aunts is doing research for our family tree....We know a g-g-grandfather came to Canada with his brother, however have lost track of said brother...May have returned to Orkneys or gone on to Shetlands....Robert James Halcrow, born 1848, date unknown, birthplace unknown. Any info appreciated. THX MUCH. Great looking page!
Sherry Halcrow <garden@escape.ca>
Winnipeg, MB CANADA - Friday, November 07, 1997 at 20:15:30 (EST)

My mother is Florence Mary (Annal) Rezendes, daughter of Peter John Annal of Massiter. She is the 1st child of my grandfather's 2nd wife he married after he came to the USA: Mary Dawe (Burnett) Annal. My grandfathers 1st wife was Margaret Currie of Glasgow . She had died before my grandfather came to USA with their 5 children. I would love to hear from you all. Pam:-)
Pam Blais <Pamb@totcon.com>
Daytona Beach, FL USA - Friday, November 07, 1997 at 00:30:20 (EST)

Just learned of the site from David Mackenzie Skea of Sydney. It looks like it may be promising. I'll keep you posted.
Dennis P. Skea <kc2ccz@juno.com>
Poughkeepsie, NY USA - Thursday, November 06, 1997 at 00:06:29 (EST)

I'm interested in your listing of Skeas
Nancy Skea Severance <SKEA@AOL.COM>
Charlotte, VT USA - Wednesday, November 05, 1997 at 13:40:53 (EST)

Just having a look thanks.
Martin Ian Milne <MIM8663@AOL.com.uk.>
Renfrewshire, UK - Wednesday, November 05, 1997 at 07:43:12 (EST)

Just having a look thanks.
Martin Ian Milne <MIM8663@AOL.com.uk.>
Renfrewshire, UK - Wednesday, November 05, 1997 at 07:42:32 (EST)

I'm very interested in the Skea family name which appears to be quire rare outside the Orkneys, only 18 listed in all Australia and some 63 across USA. I will be following up some of the references you give
David Mackenzie Skea <annskea@zeta.org.au>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Tuesday, November 04, 1997 at 23:49:18 (EST)

just browsing very interesting
Stewart Hutchison <hutchi@globalnet.co.uk>
orkney ,Scotland, UK - Tuesday, November 04, 1997 at 18:05:25 (EST)

Very nice pages! Are there any records of people i Kirkwall in the early 1600s? I am asking because of an entry in a very old family bible, printed in 1632, where an Anders or Andrew Dishington is mentioned as born on the Orkney islands, and who moved to Bergen in Norway before 1635, where he married and had several children, including Anders and Job Dishington. An old scource in Norway indicates that the older Anders may have been related to a priest in the St. Magnus cathedral in Kirkwall. I would be grateful for any advice on how to investigate this further. Regards, Petter F. Vennemoe, Oslo, Norway.
Petter F. Vennemoe <vennemoe@online.no>
Oslo, Norway - Monday, November 03, 1997 at 12:47:15 (EST)

Am looking for a book called "Stroma, The Forgotten Island" Anyone know of it?
Is <morelanb@cadvision.com>
Calgary, AB Canada - Sunday, November 02, 1997 at 16:43:08 (EST)

Others have helped me track our family back to the Orphir area. I was fortunate to have visited the area two years ago. I am now about to look through this website ... with anticipation.
Inkster, Brian Keith <kinkster@bcit.bc.ca>
Vancouver, BC Canada - Wednesday, October 29, 1997 at 12:45:31 (EST)

Enjoying your web site, interested in tracing my Westray Roots Fathers name William Harcus Logie born Oct 3 1881. We have traced back to George Logie and Margaret Groat 1775. Dad's mother was Elizabeth Harcus daughter of William Harcus. Visited Westray in 1956 and 1981, would love to return.
Mima Runzer <crunzer@mountain-inter.net>
Squamish, B.C. Canada - Monday, October 27, 1997 at 14:02:02 (EST)

Just visiting but looking for info on Reid family. Having some problems with displaying your homepage with my Mac. Regards. Jim
Jim Reid <michaeljr@worldnet.att.net>
waterford, ct USA - Monday, October 27, 1997 at 09:43:40 (EST)

I am looking for other Linklaters from Orkney Scotland. I wood love to learn more about Orkney and Any Linklaters that live their.
Daniel Linklater <dlink@wi.frontiercomm.net>
Cecil, WI USA - Friday, October 24, 1997 at 17:27:37 (EDT)

Despite living in Derbyshire England I was born and brought up in Leith Scotland. In the summer of 1997 I visited Orkney to trace my grandmother's ancestors. She was called Anne Peace and on Sanday I found many of her relations and my ancestors. It was only on my return to Derbyshire that I found your web site and checked out much of what I found on Sanday. Mrs Walace is a gem and and her sister in law reminded me so much of my Aunt. Many thanks for all you've done.
Donald Peace Rae <DonRae@Dial.Pipex.Com>
Derbyshire, UK - Wednesday, October 22, 1997 at 19:54:24 (EDT)

Congratulation on your work.Hoping to avail myself of info you supply Re:Swannie's from Westray as well as Mainland ORKNEY.Thank you. jswannie@hotmail.com
JAMES D.SWANNIE <jswannie@hotmail.com>
VENICE, FL USA - Monday, October 20, 1997 at 03:50:20 (EDT)

Hi, Walt! As we search for our ancestry, you are a great help to us Orcadian descendants. Thanks for all your wonderful work.
Dick Taylor <husker@sky.net>
Kansas City, KS USA - Tuesday, October 14, 1997 at 06:15:40 (EDT)

Hiya, Walt! I see yer still orking dilligently to make life easier for the rest of us. Thanks for all the work you do. ronny watt (seeking the ancestors of Steward Drever and Robina Norquay, both of The Orkneys.)
ronny <ronny@headwaters.com>
On Canada - Monday, October 13, 1997 at 18:29:09 (EDT)

My grandfather, Henry Sutherland, was born around 1890 on Sanday, Orkney. Thanks for your information!
Sutherland, Robert James <sutherla@unm.edu>
Tijeras, NM USA - Monday, October 13, 1997 at 14:26:57 (EDT)

My grandfather, Henry Sutherland, was born around 1890 on Sanday, Orkney.
Sutherland, Robert James <sutherla@unm.edu>
Tijeras, NM USA - Monday, October 13, 1997 at 14:24:41 (EDT)

I an also interested in a book about Stroma that had an account of my Father's younger brother's death in it. As near as i can find out ,he was returning from the mainland when a storm blew in and he was never seen again. His name was Stewart Allan. His mother was Heddle.
Isabella Moreland <morelanb@cadvision.com>
Calgary, AB Canada - Saturday, October 11, 1997 at 13:35:55 (EDT)

Hello,My maiden name is Allan. I am looking for relatives of the Allan's from Stroma. My father was William Norquay Allan. I'm sure there are some still around.Thanks
Isabella Moreland <morelanb@cadvision.com>
Calgary, AB Canada - Saturday, October 11, 1997 at 13:28:23 (EDT)

Interested in communicating with anyone related to the Seatters of Walkerhouse, Evie.
Jim Seatter <jseatter@cris.com>
Acton, MA USA - Wednesday, October 08, 1997 at 23:51:13 (EDT)

You are to be congratulated what a magnifecent effort.You cerainly made Carolyn Geittmann,s day in Cape Girardeau MO. .I am from Scotland West Lothian came to Canada in 1956 but we still have a home in Edinburgh I have been working on my family tree for 5 years but I have dificulty getting any info such as you have on this site. One last thought my best friends mother is from Lypster in Caithness and I visit thereat least once a year Have a nice day Tom Marshall .
Tom Marshall <t9940@aol.com>
Cedar Valley, ON Canada - Wednesday, October 08, 1997 at 20:37:31 (EDT)

I could not believe my eyes when I checked the Orkney Bulletin Board tonight!!!!! I had left a query there several days ago, checked this morning, there was nothing new then! But what I found tonight is an absolute "gold mine" in information. As a background, in 1980 a person commissioned Dr. Muriel PRICHARD of Edinburg to locate their Orkney SPENCE ancestors. I recently received a photo copy of a photo copy of the handwritten notes Dr. PRICHARD made from the OPR's. The copy was good but her handwriting not easily read. Wanting to be sure I got all the data correct, I have moved heaven and earth trying to find help reading the research. My son's international consultant who lives in Canada but keeps his home in his native Scotland did some research for me there in the OPR's a few weeks ago, also tried without success to locate Dr. PRICHARD. Then a Jackie BARNES left a note on the Orkeny Bulletin Board she was doing a one-name study on SPENCE in Orkney, my countless e-mails to her would never go through. Asked for help on the Genealogy Chat Room, had several trying to help. So all of this fantastic research posted today solves almost all of the problems and I cannot thank all of you who sponsored this project enough!!! Then after I found the posting, I could not wait to share the news with some other SPENCE/IRVINE researchers and others who have been helping and would you believe my provider was out of service. I apologize for such a long "comment" but just had to share the fantaastic find. Carolyn G.
Carolyn Geittmann <cgeittmann@crainent.com>
Cape Girardeau, MO, USA - Tuesday, October 07, 1997 at 20:34:11 (EDT)

For John Douglass Cursiter I tried to respond by e-mail but your e-mail address given in your guestbook entry was not working and the message below "bounced." John, I was in Edinburgh in early September (weekend after the Yes/Yes vote) and spoke to Mary by phone. I assume your aunt is the Mary who is a nutritionist and lives in Edinburgh. Your family is documented in my Cursiters of Orkney book which you can download from my website. In speaking to Mary it is probably a little out of date (last serious work on it about 1990) and a number of children have been born in your family since then. Good to here from you. What are you studying at Heriot-Watt University? Walt
Walt Custer <wcuster@mindspring.com>
Santa Ana, CA USA - Monday, October 06, 1997 at 16:39:54 (EDT)

Dear Walt, My auntie (Mary Cursiter) told me that you'd set this up. I never thought I'd ever get to try it though! I've just started my first year at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and got an e-mail address!!! My auntie circulates a magazine called "shipshape" among our family members up here. If you ever feel like passing on any information to be published, send it to me! Must go, hope to hear from you sometime!!!
John Douglas Cursiter <J.Cursiter@hw.ac.uk>
Edinburgh, Scotland - Monday, October 06, 1997 at 16:01:19 (EDT)

Great idea - I hope to give you some info when I get it all together after my hard disk crash destroyed my Tait archive.
Charles Tait <charles@velvia.demon.co.uk>
Kirkwall, UK - Monday, October 06, 1997 at 13:30:04 (EDT)

COOK AND THOMSON ARE FAMILY NAMES. I WOULD LIKE INFO ON RESEACHING TREES, TARTANS, CRESTS, ETC.
KIMBERLY NOEL COOK THOMSON <PHILYANA@COM>
MDR, CA USA - Tuesday, September 30, 1997 at 15:13:05 (EDT)

I found my g-g-grandfather in your lists! I really appreaciate your work on this website. Thanks for the info.
James Laughton Swanney
royal oak, mi USA - Monday, September 29, 1997 at 20:38:21 (EDT)

I can't thank you enough for all the work you have put in to this and to have entered it on the internet is fantastic.
Fran Harrison <sdharri@erols.com>
Woodbridge, Va USA - Monday, September 29, 1997 at 18:03:48 (EDT)

excellent help to me as i try to research the banks family from the orkneys
dianne mclean <jmclean@sympatico.mb.ca>
portage, mb canada - Saturday, September 27, 1997 at 20:36:42 (EDT)

Am trying to find link between the Moodies of Hoy and the Moodies of Sanday
T Moodie Craig <tcraig@netcomuk.co.uk>
Edinburgh, Scotland - Saturday, September 27, 1997 at 14:20:57 (EDT)

hello
james laughton swanney
mi USA - Friday, September 26, 1997 at 14:22:57 (EDT)

cool!
james laughton swanney
USA - Thursday, September 25, 1997 at 12:00:50 (EDT)

Hello. I found the information an your webpages very interesting. Thank you for allowing us to see this treasure.
Felicia Drever <drevfr@uleth.ca>
USA - Thursday, September 18, 1997 at 15:09:13 (EDT)

I'm really happy to finally find the name Skea. I would like to other information about the name Skea like the origin and the meaning. Thanks
Dean Skea <dskea@po-box.mcgill.ca>
Laval, QQu Canada - Thursday, September 18, 1997 at 09:47:47 (EDT)

Wow! Walt you sure know your way around the archive arena! Your webpage was terrific! I live in a very remote part of Canada and trips to the "big city" are few. It sure was great to be able to read the IGI online and find the information I have been longing for! I also read a message you sent to Rebbeka Kribs who has also emailed me. Seems we are distantly related. I am a decendant of George Gullion of Eday, parents: James Gullion and Janet Scott.Your information has been valuable. Thank you again! Kim Stewart
Kim Stewart (Gullion) <kstewart@pris.bc.ca>
Tumbler Ridge, BC Canada - Friday, September 05, 1997 at 16:17:52 (EDT)

I have been so busy getting ready to move, I retire the end of this month and we are going to VT, that I never noticed you have your own web site. Lots of Luck and let me hear from you if you come east. Jerry
Jerry Siegmund <siegmun@ibm.net>
Hamden, CT USA - Thursday, September 04, 1997 at 07:54:33 (EDT)

I was excited to find information on Whitfords in your birth index as I am researching my family. Also looking on my fathers side for Lena Olstead (Norway) W. Douglas (Scotland) and Leondar Jones Turner (Scotland). any information on David Whitford and family would be appreciated.
Julie Hazelwanter <julieh@ahearn.com>
Airdrie, AB Canada - Saturday, August 30, 1997 at 13:37:01 (EDT)

Many thanks for all the useful information Walt. Best wishes, Vic
Vic Clouston <VBClouston@aol.com>
Bristol, UK - Saturday, August 30, 1997 at 12:49:49 (EDT)

I am editor of Westray Roots and the JOurnal of the Orkney Family History Society's newsletter, SIB FOLK NEWS. REGARDS, GAVIN
Gavin Rendall <westroot@nildram.co.uk>
Purley, Surrey UK - Monday, August 25, 1997 at 15:09:06 (EDT)

Thank you for the information you have supplied, it is a great effort and a great help to other genealogists. I have been fortunate that my ggrandfather James Smith Isbister started researching his family at the beginning of the century, his daughter continued collecting information mostly about James Smith Isbister's decendants. Her daughter continued collecting information and also checked her antecedants. We can trace our Isbister family from the first "Isbister of the ilk" (Robert Isbister). It is believed the family were originally a branch of the Cloustons who split off and took the name of Isbister in the early to mid 1500's
May Hampton <mhampton@winshop.com.au>
Gold Coast, Qld Australia - Sunday, August 24, 1997 at 02:02:43 (EDT)

Brilliant homepage for researching Orkney Families, nothing in this format available in Orkney yet. Almost completed researching all Orkney Donaldson's and Learmonth's if anyone requires info, or can add to it. Keep up the good work Walt.
Kenny Learmonth <KLearmonth@Compuserve.com>
Kirkwall, UK - Sunday, August 24, 1997 at 01:40:58 (EDT)

Family names Pumpa, Ferrel, Clouston, Watson, Kubal
Dave Pumpa <dpumpa@us.ibm.com>
Solon, OH USA - Monday, August 18, 1997 at 17:14:06 (EDT)

Thanks for the information. Fantastic. I am writing this as I arrive at your page, so am looking forward to reading through your family information and research. The 70 year old note, to which I referred, was a return address on the back of an envelope. It read ..... Mary Miller. Raymond Coster Evie Orkney Islands.
Stephen Miller <holybem@intercoast.com.au>
USA - Monday, August 18, 1997 at 08:18:33 (EDT)

Hi there.
Grace Kershaw <sales@r\trax.co.za>
Cape Town, RSA - Monday, August 18, 1997 at 05:44:23 (EDT)

Your homepage is fascinating. The Oman births are great. I'm Min Walker, living in New Zealand, born in Nairn , Scotland and I am the gggrandaughter of John O(w)man and Bini (Benjamina) Gear, both born in Thurso and married there in 1825. Johns parents were William O(w)man and Ann Manson. William was born in 1800 at Thurso. John died at Opher, Orkney 0n 14/03/1874 at the Free Chuch Manse there, where his son William Oman(d) was the minister. The younger William Oman(d) married Maria Jones Oughton. I wonder if your Omans and mine are connected? Thank you for database, Regards, Min Walker.
Min Walker <minw@ihug.co.nz>
New Zealand - Saturday, August 16, 1997 at 22:14:22 (EDT)

i am currently researching isbister name and would appreciate info you could provide from your records and research. thank you
gerald isbister <isbister@gte.com>
USA - Saturday, August 16, 1997 at 20:41:42 (EDT)

Looking up grandfather, John L. Swanney, from Orkney,
Carol Lee Swanney
USA - Saturday, August 16, 1997 at 19:40:23 (EDT)

I have downloaded your material on the Angus family. I look forward to reading it. I am still searching for the "missing link" to Scotland itself. I am pleased I found your page! Thanks!
Steve Angus <sangus@ashkins.com>
Clarksville, Tn USA - Saturday, August 16, 1997 at 07:47:37 (EDT)

Your information has been a great help to me, thanks.
John Page <john.page@unisa.edu.au>
Whyalla , SA Australia - Saturday, August 16, 1997 at 02:39:48 (EDT)

Site looks great!Cutt and Tulloch(North Ronaldsay)
Bruce Hughes <bhughes107@aol>
Toronto, ON Canada - Friday, August 15, 1997 at 20:46:51 (EDT)

Motherlode, yes! My names are Stout, Rendall, Wilson, Kent, Drever, Logie, Harcus, Mitchell, Stevenson, Foulis, Paplay, Flett, Hutchson. My Grandfather was born in the Orkney's and I'm beginning to think that everyone from there is related if not by blood, at least by marriage. Thanks for all the help Walt. Marian Craft
Marian Craft <ecraft@knet.kootenay.net>
Castlegar, BC CANADA - Thursday, August 14, 1997 at 20:39:41 (EDT)

Clouston, Wards, Groundwater, Sutherland, Harcus, Rendall. I think I've struck the mother-lode! What can I say but a heartfelt thank you, Walt! Mike
Mike Clouston <Mike.Clouston@mcmail.com>
Ramsgate, UK - Thursday, August 14, 1997 at 16:49:14 (EDT)

Clouston, Wards, Groundwater, Sutherland, Harcus, Rendall. I think I've struck the mother-lode! What can I say but a heartfelt thank you, Walt! Mike
Mike Clouston <Mike.Clouston@mcmail.com>
Ramsgate, UK - Thursday, August 14, 1997 at 16:48:38 (EDT)

HIYA! Was surfing - tried to look up my ex's work homepage, and look what I found - a b-zillion Cusitar's. I'm Barb #2248/2059, and my birth date is Nov 2/45 (though sometimes I feel like I was born in 1905). Regards, and thanks for a great page. 97/12/30