Stories about the Cheyne family and Tangwick Haa; Sir Walter...
Track Information
Original Track ID
SA1960.219.A3; SA1960.219.A4; SA1960.219.A5; A9
Original Tape ID
Summary
Stories about the Cheyne family and Tangwick Haa; Sir Walter Scott's visit; smuggling.
Rosabel Blance relates the story of the dramatic and difficult birth of one of the Cheynes of Tangwick Haa; and another story about a bathroom floor giving way at the Haa. Sir Walter Scott stayed there while writing 'The Pirate'. He also composed 'Farewell to Northmavine', which he recited to a maid in the house whose daughter was known to Mrs Blance's father. The Old Haa is full of secret compartments for smuggled goods. Mrs Blance shows Tom Anderson around.
Margaret Keith, the daughter of Sir James, fled to Shetland with her father to avoid persecution. Margaret was very tall and stronger than any of the men. She would be summoned to hide and retrieve the kegs of brandy when the ranselmen arrived. Mrs Blance is a descendant of the Keith family.
Item Notes
Ranselmen were officials appointed to search for stolen goods and contraband.
Item Subject/Person
Cheyne family; Scott, Sir Walter; Keith, Margaret
Recording Location
County - Shetland
Item Location
County - Shetland
Parish - Northmaven
Island - Shetland Mainland
Village/Place - Tangwick Haa
Language
English, Scots
Genre
Collection
Source Type
Reel to reel
Audio Quality
Good