New England sawmillers in Scotland – Mess hut and kitchen
The images are courtesy of Rene Knott and Kyle of Sutherland Historical Society. However the writer is uncertain of how the photographs known as the Culeve (Location in Strathcarron) collection were formed and who initially collected them. A similar collection is in the care of the Jenks Library in Acton Massachusetts gifted by Webster Blanchard who was the foreman of New England Mill No 3 team. It is assumed that one of the Americans or more had cameras, took a selection of photographs which were passed to various team members. A local Scottish photographer or press reporter should perhaps not be ruled out as there would have been a ready market for photographs among the New England teams. Any further information on the photographs would be very welcome. Locations are within five miles of Ardgay, Ross-shire.
Was this the most important man in the sawmill unit team? The man may be the main cook for one of the teams. He is standing in front of what appears to be a very new fresh looking building and through the door can been observed a long bench and table. Almost certainly the ‘cook house’ or canteen and kitchen for the camp.
Food provision was the responsibility of the British Board of Trade and reports mention that the camps initially had substantial quantities of food supplies. However on hearing that the local people were on rations for many items the whole American contingent opted to move onto a similar rationing system to maintain solidarity with their hosts.
Groups: American sawmillers in Scotland 1917, Buildings in Forests, Forestry in Action