Christmas and the final days of the year are a time when many traditionally reflect upon the past few months. But what about even further back in time? What were Christmases long since passed like for Highland residents? It may be surprising to some, but as well as some unexpected stories there are also many recurring themes that crop up in the reporting of Highland Christmases through the decades and centuries - including the eagerness to see if the festive season will be snowy. And with news archives stretching back more than 200 years, these make for some fascinating reading.
We’re had a look back at some random years from the 19th and 20th centuries and are reproducing just a tiny fraction of the stories that made the paper in years gone by. So what were some of the stories making the headlines? Well, snow drift chaos on the A9, an offshore drama involving a fishing boat sinking near the Kessock ferry, and Christmas treats for children in Muir of Ord were just some of the stories that hit the press. WEATHER - The frost continues very severe, and in this part of the country unaccompanied by snow, which would have the effect of preserving the wheat from injury.
About Huntly, and to the eastward, there is a good sprinkling of the fleecy covering, and the summits and sides of the Ross-shire mountain are entirely, and apparently thickly covered. CURLING - On Wednesday the curling club mustered in full force at Lochnashannis, and played a bonspiel with the enthusiasm of true .
