Ponfeigh

[TrustyA]

Hi
I am new to this group
I am interested in the village of Ponfeigh where my ancestor Walter Weir was born in 1818
His parents were John James Weir and Agnes Sandilands
Walter married twice
1) Mary King
2) Janet Letham
He was a Master Blacksmith
The Sandilands family go back to 1670
Any info on these families would be appreciated
Walter was my great great grandfather
many thanks x

[Russell]

Hi Trustya and a warm welcome to

It's rather late so I can't stay awake long enough to start searching but I was interested in the Blacksmithing occupation. Folk who gave an essential service to the community often stayed in the same place and often did work that resulted in some new version of a farm implement that earned them some local fame and was mentioned in the records of agricultural shows and books about the farming community in that district so Google books might dig up relevant info for you. Another possibility, he may have worked for the local coal company making or repairing equipment for the colliery so scottishmining.co.uk may have some information.
Someone will no doubt be along soon with additional info.

Russell

Just did a quick check for 1835. see http://www.oldscottish.com/carmichael.html. A bit early for you perhaps but evidence that both Weirs and Sandilands were in the parish then.

[AndrewP]

Hi TrustyA,

See also a previous thread here on TalkingScot:

viewtopic.php?f=24&t=2176

All the best,

AndrewP