Malcolm Macdonald, 25 Tobson, Great Bernera

Private MALCOLM MACDONALD
"Murchadh Chaluim Aonghais Duinn"
Known in his family as Murdo
Last address in Lewis: 25 Tobson, Great Bernera
Son of Malcolm and Mary Macdonald.
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/7383
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of birth: 12 October 1897
Date of death: 25 April 1915 at the age of 17
Killed in action
Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, panel 38,
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Malcolm was one of the 4 children of Malcolm and Mary, the others being Catherine (1894), John George (1900) and Donald (1903).

His brother John George was in the RNR; Angus in the Ross Mountain Battery. These three survived the war.

Battalion war diary, 25 April 1915
The battalion has moved from Bailleul in France to a position near Wieltje, northeast of Ypres in Belgium. Their involvement with the battle starts today.

Very wet indeed.
Moved into position for attack at 4 am.
Attack commences at 5.30 am. Brigades from left to right. R Warwickshire Reg - Seaforth Highlanders - R Dublin Fusiliers - R Irish Fusiliers.
Came under heavy fire when getting into position before attack commenced. Finally took up a position and dug in as well.
6.30 am Absolutely great except for a great deal of shelling on eastern flank. Line readjusted and altered after dark. Trenches improved.From right to left companies B C D
Very wet day till 8 am - fine afternoon. Weather was very hot and sunny. There was a great deal of shelling all the time.

Officers killed: 20
Killed: 61
Wounded: 239
Died of wounds: 12
Missing: 16

Kenneth Macdonald, 24A Tobson, Great Bernera

Private KENNETH MACDONALD
Last address in Lewis: 24A Tobson, Great Bernera
Son of Angus and Catherine MacDonald, of 24, Valsay, Bernera, Stornoway, Scotland.
Service unit: 3rd Battallion (Central Ontario) Toronto Regiment, Canadian Infantry
Service number: 9339
Date of death: 15 June 1915 at the age of 21
Died of wounds sustained the previous day,
Interred: Lillers Communal Cemetery, grave II. C. 33
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Kenneth was one of the seven children of Angus and Catherine, the others being Ann (1891), John (1895), Catherine (1897), Donald (1898), Angus (1900), Peter (1903), Chirsty Ann (1908),

His brother John was in the Royal Naval Division and POW in Germany from October 1914. His brothers Donald and Angus served in the RNR.

Date of birth: 20 November 1893
Place of birth: Isle of Lewis
Height: 5 ft 6½ in
Complexion: Fair
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Fair
Religion: Presbyterian
Trade / occupation: Meter inspector
Volunteered at Valcartier on 22 September 1914

Donald Macdonald, 13 Tobson, Great Bernera

Leading Seaman DONALD MACDONALD
"Domhnall Aonghais Thormoid", "Domhnall Ruadh".
Last address in Lewis: 13 Tobson, Great Bernera
Son of Angus and Mary Macdonald, was married
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Ganges
Service number: 2688/B
Date of birth: 14 October 1882
Date of death: 1 January 1919 at the age of 36
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire, was never found
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 32

Donald was one of the 5 children of Angus and Mary, the others being Angus (1888), twins Angus and Catherine (1894), Ann (1876, died aged 7 months) and Ann (1878).

Donald married in 1910 and had two children, Peggy Ann (1911) and Angus (1912).

His brother Norman was in the RNR and was torpedoed on HMS Otway; Angus was in the Royal Naval Division and interned in Holland; another Angus was in the Scottish Rifles and injured twice.

Donald Bannerman Macdonald, 13 Tobson, Great Bernera

Signaller DONALD BANNERMAN MACDONALD
Last address in Lewis: 13 Tobson, Great Bernera
Son of Malcolm and Margaret Bannerman Macdonald, of 106, Roslea Drive, Dennistoun, Glasgow.
Service unit: Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, HMS Brisk
Service number: Clyde Z/8157
Date of death: 2 October 1917 at the age of 19
Died in accident in the Mediterranean
Memorial: Portsmouth Naval Memorial, panel 28
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Educated at Allen Glen School, where he was Head Master's Secretary during his last year.

Angus Macdonald, 7 Tobson, Great Bernera

Seaman ANGUS MACDONALD
"Aonghas Thormoid Aonghais"
Last address in Lewis: 7 Tobson, Great Bernera
Son of Norman and Mary Macdonald, of 7, Tobson, Bernera,
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Laurentic
Service number: 3467A
Date of birth: 24 July 1890
Date of death: 25 January 1917 at the age of 28
Ship sunk by U-80 off Malin Head
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 26
Local memorial: Great Bernera
Decoration(s):1915 Star

Served in the Howe Battalion from 19 September until 27 October, and was discharged to RN Barracks Portsmouth.

Angus was one of the nine children of Norman and Mary, the others being Catherine (1882), Margaret (1884), John (1886), Donald (1888), Norman (1893), Johnny (1895-1897), John (1897) and Malcolm (1902).

Four of his brothers also served in the RNR, of whom Donald was discharged due to ill health in 1917. John senior, John junior and Norman were the others, who all survived the war.

Stornoway Gazette
Seaman Angus Macdonald, 7 Tobson [whose] loss, in the sinking of the Laurentic, is deeply deplored. Angus joined at the age of 19 and was for seven years in the service. He was of a quiet disposition and was an excellent son and brother. He has three other brothers in the Navy, two being on HMS Orama and the other on another auxiliary cruiser. Much sympathy is felt for his father and mother, as both are in very indifferent health.

John Maciver, 21 Kirkibost, Great Bernera

Private JOHN MACIVER
Last address in Lewis: 21 Kirkibost, Great Bernera
Son of Murdo and Ann Maciver
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Date of birth: 28 January 1893
Date of death: September 1918 at the age of 26
Killed in France
Local memorial: Great Bernera
Went to France in 1914. He had previously been wounded twice



John is one of the four children of Murdo and Ann, the others being Angus (1891), Alexander (1895) and Christina (1899).

His brother Alexander also served in the Seaforths, but was discharged in December 1914. His brother Angus served in the RNR.

John Macaulay, 12 Kirkibost, Great Bernera

Deckhand JOHN MACAULAY
"Iain Phiri"
Last address in Lewis: 12 Kirkibost, Great Bernera
Son of John and Jane Macaulay, of 12, Kirkibost, Bernera, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMT Joseph Burgin
Service number: 19586/DA
Date of birth: 29 June 1899
Date of death: 14 November 1918 at the age of 20
Died of pneumonia in hospital at Dundee
Interred: Bosta, Great Bernera
Local memorial: Great Bernera

John is one of the 8 children of John and Jane, the others being Mary Ann (1888), Donald Zachariah (1889), Kenneth (1891), Hector (1894), Ann (1896), Jessie (1900), Katie Ann (1903),

Stornoway Gazette, 22 November 1918
Last Friday (15 November), Mr John Macaulay, 12 Kirkibost, received intimation by wire that his youngest son, Seaman John Macaulay, RNRT, had died in a Dundee hospital at the early age of 20 years. He was laid aside with influenza and pneumonia setting in, he succumbed. His early death has cast a gloom over the district. He was a promising young man, and his fine character and amiable disposition endeared him to all his friends. Deep sympathy is felt towards the bereaved parents, sisters and brothers, in their sad and irrepairable loss.

Malcolm Macdonald, 11 Kirkibost, Great Bernera

Private MALCOLM MACDONALD
"Callum Dhol"
Last address in Lewis: 11 Kirkibost, Great Bernera
Son of Donald and Mary Ann Macdonald, of 11, Kirkibost, Bernera, Stornoway.
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6993
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of death: 2 March 1915 at the age of 23
Killed in action in France
Interred: Bailleul Communal Cemetery (Nord), grave J. 14
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Had been employed in tramway department of Glasgow Corporation before the outbreak of war

His brothers John and Norman served in the RNR; John was discharged in 1915, and Norman suffered from the effects of immersion [nearly drowned] after his ship was torpedoed in 1918.

John Macdonald, 9 Kirkibost, Great Bernera

Seaman JOHN MACDONALD
Last address in Lewis: 9 Kirkibost, Great Bernera
Son of Norman and Margaret McDonald, of 9, Kirkibost, Bernera,
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMABV Duke of Albany
Service number: 3322A
Date of birth: 25 June 1888
Date of death: 24 August 1916 at the age of 30
Ship sunk by UB-27, 20 miles E of Wick
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 18,
Local memorial: Great Bernera

John is one of the 9 children of Norman and Margaret, the others being Mary (1881, died aged 18), Christina (1883), Norman (1885), John (1891, died aged 18 months), Johann (1893), Marion (1896, died aged 7 days), Murdina (1897) and Mary (1900, died aged 5). 

John joined Anson Bn (RND, D/93) on 19 September 1914. 

John Maclennan, 8 Kirkibost, Great Bernera

Private JOHN MACLENNAN
"Iain Scodaidh"
Last address in Lewis: 8 Kirkibost, Great Bernera
Son of John and Ann MacLennan, of 8, Kirkibost, Bernera, Stornoway, Scotland.
Service unit: 3rd Battallion, 1st Canadian Infantry (Central Ontario Regiment)
Service number: 9337
Date of death: 15 June 1915 at the age of 22
Killed in action in France
Memorial: Vimy Memorial,
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Date of birth: 6 July 1893
Place of birth: Isle of Lewis
Height: 5 ft 5½ in
Complexion:Dark
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Brown
Religion: Presbyterian
Trade / occupation: Meter inspector
Last address in Lewis: 8 Kirkibost
Volunteered at Valcartier on 22 September 1914

John was one of the nine children of John and Ann, the others being Donald (1886), Murdo (1888), Alexander (1890), Euphemia (1895), Angus (1898), Mary Ann (1900), Ellie (1903) and Catherine (1905).

His brother Murdo served in the RNR, but was discharged due to ill health in 1916.
His brother Alexander served in the Australian forces and was discharged wounded in 1915.

From a 1915 newspaper
One of the bravest and brightest lads who ever lived" That was how Captain McCormack, under whose command he fought, described Private John Maclennan, who was killed by a bomb.
Private Maclennan was the fourth son of Mr John Maclennan, Kirkibost, Bernera, Lewis, who has had four sons on active service in this war. John went to Canada about three years ago, and there he had been doing well, but on the outbreak of hostilities he joined the Toronto Regiment of the first Canadian Contingent, and came over to France last February. He had fought in some of the hottest engagements since.

Donald Macarthur, 1 Kirkibost, Great Bernera

Sergeant DONALD MACARTHUR
Son of Donald and Catherine Macarthur
Last address in Lewis: 1 Kirkibost, Great Bernera
Service unit: 8th Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: S/6931
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of birth: 16 April 1889
Date of death: 24 March 1918 at the age of 30
Killed in action
Interred: Faubourg d'Amiens Cemetery, Arras, grave VI. C. 23.
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Decoration(s): Mons Star, posthumously awarded DCM from conspicuous bravery
Wounded 4 times previously.

Donald was one of the nine children of Donald and Catherine, the others being John (1886), Zachariah (1887), Angus (1887), Neil (1891) Angus (1893), Chirsty Mary (1894), Effie (1898) and Johanna (1901).

Stornoway Gazette, 19 April 1918
It is with profound regret that we have to record the death in France of Sergt Donald Macarthur, Seaforths, only son of Mr Donald Macarthur, 1 Kirkbost, the news of which reached Bernera early last week. At the outbreak of war, Sergt Macarthur was engaged at the herring fishing in Fraserburgh, but being in the Special Reserve of the Seaforths, he had to respond to the call on mobilisation, and was early sent to the front, and has been there all the time, excepting when in hospital. His experiences there were exciting, and previous to this he had been wounded four times. On a very few occasions he had short leave at home, the last time being about the New Year. As was usual when Donald was at home, the writer of this paragraph had many talks with him and shortly before he left we remarked that a soldier who could show such an armful of wounded stripes ought to be allowed to stay on duty at home, and let someone else have a turn in the firing line. But no, Donald "Crost" as he was familiarly called, was keen on getting back to the firing line. In his letters from the front to the writer, the last of which was received only a few weeks ago, he was the spirit of cheeriness and was looking forward to the time when all this frightfulness would be at an end and he would be once more back amongst us in Bernera. However, this was not to be and poor Donald has made the supreme sacrifice and now lies buried in a military cemetery in France. Much sympathy is extneded from all to his sorrowing parents and sister in their great affliction.

Letters of sympathy
Some idea of Sergt Macarthur's popularity in hi sbattalion may be gathered from the letters received from the Chaplain and one of his officers, and although their kind expressions may be but poor comfort to his bereaved relatives, yet in after years it will always be some consolation to know that he was all that a good soldier should be.
Lieut George Stewart wrote to Mr Macarthur:
"Before this letter reaches you, you will have had intimation of the death of your son Donald, but as I have known him intimately for over seven months I trust you will accept my sincere sympathy in your loss. He was Sergeant of the platoon which I have commanded since August last, and no officer could wish for a better Sergeant or a braver man. Durin gthe time we were together we beguiled many a weary hour in the trenches talking of our native islands, Lewis and Skye, and only a week ago, one lovely afternoon in the trenches, he was giving me a vivid description of the mountains of Bernera. I was away from the battalion for a few days on duty, and on my return yesterday was deeply grieved to hear of his death. He was very popular with all the officers and men, and while we all feel that we have lost a good Sergeant, I personally know I have lost a very good friend. HHe was an old soldier in France when I joined the battalion, and I shall never forget the help he gave me in connection with my duties both in the trenches and behind the line. I have not yet had particulars about his death, but anything I may be able to gather later I will give you. Please accept my sincere sympathy."
Chaplain William Crawford wrote:
"I have sad news to break to you. Your son, Sergt. D. Macarthur, 6831, has been killed in action. On the 244th he was wounde din action. It was not of a serious character, and he was able to walk down to the advanced dressing station. After attention there he was placed in an ambulance to be taken down the line. The car had not proceeded far down the main road, when a shell landed on it, killing all its occupants save one. Your son was killed instantly. His death has occasioned much deep and general regret. Sergt. Macarthur was held in the highest respect and had a long record of splended service with the battalion. None will miss him more than the officers of his own company. His company commander says:
"He was my best Sergeant. The battalion will feel his loss, but we who knew him as a comrade, and for his constant cheeriness. We feel very sorry for you for yours is the greater loss. May God be your strength and hope in this hour. I wish also to tell you that he lies buried in the Arras Military Cemetery.

An Appreciation
A "Friend" writes: On the 3rd of April, the "Hand of the Reaper" once more cast a deep gloom upon this whole community, when intimation was received by Mr Donald Macarthur, 1 Kirkbost, Bernera, that his only surviving son, Donald, was killed in action in France on the 24th of March. He joined the colours when war broke out in 1914, and went across to France with some of the first sent there. Son afterwards, he attained the rank of Sergeant, was wounded four times, and got the final hit on the above-mentioned date, when he was wounded for the fifth time but not seirously. He walked unaided tot he dressing-station, got attention there, and was placed in an ambulance-car to be sent down the line. The car had not proceeded far downt he main road, when a shell struck it, killing all the occupants except one. Donald was killed instantly"

Donald was known to us all as Domhnull Crost and one and all of us feel deeply with his father and mother and sisters in their hour of trial. Mr Macarthur had lost four sons before now but this seems to be the deepest sorrow of all. May God be their help and strength.

Norman Angus Macdonald, 6 Hacklet, Great Bernera

Private NORMAN ANGUS MACDONALD
"Norman Angus Shroll"
Son of Donald and Christy McDonald, of 6, Hacklet, Bernera, Stornoway.
Last address in Lewis: 6 Hacklet, Great Bernera
Service unit: 1st Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6994
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of birth: 25 June 1889
Date of death: 5 November 1917 at the age of 28
Killed in action in Mesopotamia
Memorial: Basra, panel 37 and 64
Mentioned on family gravestone in Bosta Cemetery, Great Bernera
Local memorial: Great Bernera
Decoration(s):1915 Star

Norman Angus was the youngest of the five children of Donald and Christina. The others were Duncan (1877), Ann (1881), an unnamed infant that died 30 minutes after birth in October 1883 and Mary (1885).

John Macaulay, 4 Hacklet

Private JOHN MACAULAY
"Iain an Sheorais"
Last address in Lewis: 4 Hacklet, Great Bernera
Son of Mrs. C. Macaulay, of 4, Hacklet, Bernera, Stornoway, and the late John Macaulay.
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6755
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of birth: 27 May 1891
Date of death: 25 April 1915 at the age of 23
Killed in action at St Julien
Interred: Seaforth Cemetery, Cheddar Villa, grave B. 1. (Headstone "A" 38).
Local memorial: Great Bernera
Decoration(s):1915 Star
Joined the firing line in August 1914

John was one of the eight children of John and Christina, these being Mary (1889, died aged 8 months), Neil (1893), Mary (1895), Donald (1897), George Angus (1899), Murdo (1901) and Marion (1903).

His brother Donald was lost in the Iolaire Disaster of 1919. Neil was also in the Seaforths but survived, as did George Angus, who was in the RNR. 

Battalion war diary 25 April 1915
The battalion has moved from Bailleul in France to a position near Wieltje, northeast of Ypres in Belgium. Their involvement with the battle starts today.

Very wet indeed.
Moved into position for attack at 4 am.
Attack commences at 5.30 am. Brigades from left to right. R Warwickshire Reg - Seaforth Highlanders - R Dublin Fusiliers - R Irish Fusiliers.
Came under heavy fire when getting into position before attack commenced. Finally took up a position and dug in as well.
6.30 am Absolutely great except for a great deal of shelling on eastern flank. Line readjusted and altered after dark. Trenches improved.From right to left companies B C D
Very wet day till 8 am - fine afternoon. Weather was very hot and sunny. There was a great deal of shelling all the time.

Officers killed: 20
Killed: 61
Wounded: 239
Died of wounds: 12
Missing: 16

Donald Macaulay, 4 Hacklet, Great Bernera

Deckhand DONALD MACAULAY
"Domhnall an Sheorais"
Last address in Lewis: 4 Hacklet, Great Bernera
Son of John and Christina Macaulay, of 4, Hacklet, Bernera, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMT Max Pemberton
Service number: 2658/SD
Date of birth: 27 May 1897
Date of death: 1 January 1919 at the age of 21
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire
Interred: Bosta, Great Bernera
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Donald was one of the eight children of John and Christina, these being Mary (1889, died aged 8 months), John (1891), Neil (1893), Mary (1895), George Angus (1899), Murdo (1901) and Marion (1903).

His brother John was killed serving with the Seaforths in 1915. Neil was also in the Seaforths but survived, as did George Angus, who was in the RNR.

Hector Morrison, Croir, Great Bernera

HECTOR MORRISON
Last address in Lewis: Croir, Great Bernera
Date of death: not known
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Hector only appears on the Great Bernera war memorial; no further information appears to be available. 

James Reid Wilson Macleod, Croir, Great Bernera

Corporal JAMES REID WILSON MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: Croir, Great Bernera
Son of Neil Mackenzie MacLeod and Annie Davidson Brown MacLeod, of 24, Barrington Drive, Glasgow. Born at Montreal, Canada.
Service unit: Cameron Highlanders / 9th Scottish Rifles
Service number: 43347
Enlisted at Glasgow
Date of death: 23 March 1918 at the age of 24
Killed in action in France
Memorial: Pozieres Memorial, Panel 37 and 38
Local memorial: Great Bernera


James appears in the 1901 census at 1 Seafield Rd, in the registration district of St Peter in the parisih of Liff and Benvie, near Dundee. His parents Neil (37) and Annie (32) as well as his brother David T (4) are also shown.


His father was a lieutenant at the national recruiting centre in Glasgow. His brother David also served in the war.

John Mackenzie, 8 Breaclet, Great Bernera

Seaman JOHN MACKENZIE
"An t-Olach"
Last address in Lewis: 8 Breaclet, Great Bernera
Son of Malcolm and Annie Mackenzie, of 8, Breaclete, Bernera;
Husband of Mary Macdonald Mackenzie
Father of Catherine.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Victory
Service number: 2038C
Date of birth: 15 March 1879
Date of death: 1 January 1919 at the age of 38
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire, was never found
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 26
Local memorial: Great Bernera

John is one of the seven children out of the second marriage of his father Malcolm, the others being Angus (1873), Ann (1876), Annie (1867), Donald (1880), John (1884), Mary (1884) and unknown (1887).
Malcolm's first wife, Annie Morrison died in childbirth, with the child itself dying 4 months later.

John married Mary in January 1913, with Catherine born 11 months later.

His younger brother John served in the Seaforth Highlanders and survived the war.

Norman Macdonald, 5 Breaclet, Great Bernera

Seaman NORMAN MACDONALD
"Tormod Thormoid Thormoid Oig"
Last address in Lewis: 5 Breaclet, Great Bernera
Son of Norman and Christy Macdonald, of 5, Breaclet, Bernera, Stornoway, Ross-shire.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Laurentic
Service number: 3279/B
Date of birth: 13 February 1885
Date of death: 25 January 1917 at the age of 33
Ship sunk by U-80 off Malin Head
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 26
Mentioned on family gravestone in Bosta Cemetery, Great Bernera
Local memorial: Great Bernera

The 1901 census shows Norman, aged 16, at 5 Breaclet, with his parents Norman (51) and Christy (40) as well as 7 of his 8 siblings, namely: John (14), Catherine (12), Mary (10), Donald (8), Angus (6), George (4) and Donald John (8 months). Donald John only lived to the age of 5 years. Another boy was born in 1904, but only lived for 5 days and remained unnamed.

His brothers Donald and George served in the Seaforth Highlanders. Donald was wounded and later discharged, he died in military hospital in 1922. Geroge was gassed . His brother John was in the Canadians Engineers. These three all survived the war.

Norman served in Howe Bn (RND, D/186) from 19 September until 27 October 1914, when he was discharged to RN barracks Portsmouth.

Stornoway Gazette
Seaman Norman Macdonald [whose] loss in the sinking of the Laurentic is deeply deplored. Norman joined the RNR at the age of 19 and has served for 13 years, being at the time of his death 32 years of age. He was one of the most likeable young men one could wish to meet, and he was a general favourite wherever he went. During the summer he generally went to the East Coast herring fishing, but during the rest of the year he prosecuted lobster fishing from here. When bad weather prevented the boats going out, his company was much sought after, and his cheery presence will be much missed. His father is an old RNR man, having served in the first-class reserve for the long period of 27 years, while two brothers are in the Seaforths.

Norman Maciver, 4 Breaclet, Great Bernera

Wireless Operator NORMAN MACIVER
Tormod Thormoid Bhig"
Last address in Lewis: 4 Breaclet, Great Bernera
Son of Norman and Mary Maciver
Service unit: Merchant Marine, SS Ben Lomond (aka Turnbridge)
Date of birth: 25 December 1897
Date of death: 7 July 1918 at the age of 21
Ship sunk by U-92, 30 miles SE of Daunts Rock, en route from Seville to Ardrossan
Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial,
Mentioned on family gravestone in Bosta Cemetery, Great Bernera
Local memorial: Great Bernera

Had gone south to Glasgow at age 18 to study wireless telegraphy, and obtained a first-class certificate.
His brother John served in the Seaforth Highlanders, but was discharged wounded in 1917.

Norman appears in the 1901 census aged 3, at home with his parents Norman (35) and Mary (34) as well as siblings John (5) and Ann (1). He was the second of eight children, the others (born after April 1901) were Katie Mary (1901), Malcolm (1903), Donald Murdo (1905), Norman (1908) and Mary (1911).

Stornoway Gazette
It is presumed that Mr Norman Maciver, son of Mr and Mrs N Maciver, 4 Breaclet, lost his life on the 7th July, when the ship on which he was wireless operator, was unk off the Irish coast. It is sad beyond words to think that such a young life has been suddenly cut off at the outset of a career so full of happy prospects of usefulness and success, and with the sorrowing parents, brothers and sisters, his many friends mourn the loss of a young man, whose charming personality was a joy to all who knew him. In his boyhood Norman Maciver was most popular with his companions by whom, as well as by his teachers, he was held in affectionate esteem. He was a lad of parts and having made up his mind to continue his education, he was much disappointed when circumstances prevented his entering the Nicolson Institute. His disappointment made him all the more determined to get on through some other avenue, as later events proved. For a time after leaving school he was on the staff of the local post-office. Here his civility to the public, his genial courtesy and kindliness of disposition, won for him the respect and confidence of all classes in the community. In August 1916, he entered the Glasgow Institute of the North British Wireless Schools and in April of the following year he passed the Postmaster-General's examination and was awarded a first-class certificate. He then joined the Marconi Company's service.

To the parents, brothers and sisters the utmost sympathy is extended in the loss of a most dutiful and devoted son and brother of whom not only they but the whole district had reason to be proud.

Norman Macinnes, 1 Breaclet, Great Bernera

Seaman NORMAN MACINNES
"Tormod Aonghais Thormoid Rhuaidh"
Last address in Lewis: 1 Breaclet, Great Bernera
Son of Angus and Catherine Macinnes;
Husband to Ann Macdonald
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Hermes
Date of birth: 21 February 1876
Date of death: 31 October 1914 at the age of 41
Drowned in torpedoing of HMS Hermes
Local memorial: Great Bernera
First man from Bernera to lose his life in World War I


Norman was the youngest of the six children of Angus and Catherine Macinnes.
Norman appears in the 1881 census, aged 5, at a private house in Breaclet with his parents Angus (50) and Catherine (48), as well as siblings Peggie [Margaret] (15), Henry [Henrietta] (13) and Margaret (10). Also present is his aunt Catherine (56), his father's sister. Norman also had a brother Angus (aged 18 in 1881) and a brother Peter, aged 9.

Norman next appears in the 1891 census, aged 15, the only one of the six children of Angus and Catherine left at home at that time.

He married Ann in 1906, and was father of 5 children (Catherine, Donald, Mary, Peter and one other)

John Macsween, 3 Tolsta Chaolais

Private JOHN MACSWEEN
Last address in Lewis: 3 Tolsta Chaolais
Son of Catherine; father from Leurbost, lived in Glasgow
Service unit: 9th Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Service number: 11765
Enlisted at Whiteinch, Glasgow
Date of death: 25 September 1915
Killed on the first day of the Battle of Loos
Memorial: Loos Memorial, Panel 57 to 59
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais

Murdo Macdonald, 29 Tolsta Chaolais

Seaman MURDO MACDONALD
Last address in Lewis: 29 Tolsta Chaolais
Son of James and Ann Macdonald, 29 Tolsta Chaolais.
Service unit: Merchant Navy
Date of death: 17 June 1918 at the age of 22
Interred: Tolsta Chaolais cemetery

Murdo appears in the 1901 census, aged 5, the son of James (39) and Annie (34) and brother of Maggie (10), Donald J (9), Mary A (7) and Agnes (1). 

Alexander Angus Macleod, 28 Tolsta Chaolais

Seaman ALEXANDER ANGUS MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 28 Tolsta Chaolais,
Son of Alexander and Annie Macleod, of 28, Tolsta Chaolais, Stornoway, Ross-shire.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Idaho
Service number: 3455SD
Date of birth: 4 June 1896
Date of death: 1 January 1919
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire, was never found
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 32
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais

John Macleod, 24 Tolsta Chaolais

Sergeant JOHN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 24 Tolsta Chaolais,
Brother of K. Macleod, Esq., M.A., Rector, of Fortrose Academy, H. G. P. School, Fortrose, Ross-shire.
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/8341
Formerly S/6217, Gordon Highlanders
Enlisted at Greenock
Date of death: 1 July 1916 at the age of 24
Killed in action in France
Interred: Sucrerie Military Cemetery, Colincamps, grave I. H. 30
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais

His brother Kenneth was a captain  in the Seaforths and Norman was in the RNR; they both survived the war.

Donald Macgregor, 12B Tolsta Chaolais

Private DONALD MACGREGOR
Last address in Lewis: 12B Tolsta Chaolais
Son of Murdo and Annie MacGregor, of 12, Tolsta Chaolais, Stornoway.
Service unit: C Coy. 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6411
Enlisted at Fort George
Date of death: 25 April 1915 at the age of 37
Killed in action at St Julien
Interred: Seaforth Cemetery, Cheddar Villa, grave B. 1. (Headstone "A" 39)
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais


Picture courtesy Peter Macgregor

John Macgregor, 12A Tolsta Chaolais

Image (c) Mairi M Macritchie

Private JOHN MACGREGOR
Last address in Lewis: 12A Tolsta Chaolais
Son of Malcolm and Chirsty (Christina) Macgregor.
Service unit: Canterbury Infantry Battalion (N.Z.E.F)
Service number: 6/92
Date of death: 11 July 1920 at the age of 40
Died of war wounds at the Metropolitan Private Hotel
Interred: Christchurch (Sydenham) Cemetery, New Zealand. Grave: Block J2. Lot 53.

His brother Neil served with the Canadians and was killed at Vimy in 1917.

Stornoway Gazette
John joined the Royal Navy as a boy & was on the China Station at the time of the Boxer Rising early 1900’s. After serving in the navy for 12 years he settled in New Zealand working as a motor driver before the war. Served in Egypt, 1914-15, at Gallipoli, and on the Western Front.

Neil Macgregor, 12A Tolsta Chaolais

Image (c) Mairi M Macritchie

Private NEIL MACGREGOR
Last address in Lewis: 12A Tolsta Chaolais,
Son of Malcolm & Chirsty (Christina) Macgregor, 12A Tolsta Chaolais
Service unit: 29th Canadian Infantry (British Columbia Regiment)
Service number: 645059
Date of death: 21 August 1917 at the age of 35
Killed in action in Vimy Ridge
Memorial: Vimy
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais
Was a fisherman before emigrating to Canada 1910.

Date of birth: 20 April 1883
Place of birth: Isle of Lewis
Height: 5 ft 7½ in
Complexion: Fair
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Dark brown
Religion: Presbyterian
Trade / occupation: Labourer
Current address: 512 21st Ave N Vancouver
Volunteered at Vancouver on 24 November 1915
 
Neil appears in the 1901 census aged 18 at home with his parents Malcolm (61) and Chirsty (52) and brother Malcolm (24) and sister Chirsty (3).

His brother John died in 1920 as a result of war wounds, having served with New Zealand forces.


Inscription for Neil at Vimy Memorial, image courtesy Peter Macgregor

Murdo Macgregor, 12C Tolsta Chaolais

Company Sergeant-Major MURDO MACGREGOR
Last address in Lewis: 12C Tolsta Chaolais,
Son of Duncan Macgregor, of 12c, Tolsta Choalais, Stornoway;
Husband of Marion Macgregor, of 255, Cumberland St., South Side, Glasgow.
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 9314
Enlisted at Glasgow
Date of death: 1 July 1916 at the age of 30
Killed in action in Beaumont Hamel
Went to France in August 1914, wounded in 1915
Recommended for distinguished conduct in the Field, Oct., 1915
Memorial: Thiepval, Pier and Face 15C
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais

Murdo appears in the 1901 census, aged 14, the son of Duncan (55) and Katie (50) and brother to Neil (18), John (16), John M L (10) and Donald M M (7).

His brother Donald also served in the 2nd Seaforths and was wounded on the same day that Murdo was killed; Donald was finally discharged in 1918. His brother John was in the Ross Mountain Battery, Neil in the RNR and Norman in the Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders.

Battalion war diary for 1 July 1916


Picture of the inscription for Murdo at Thiepval Memorial, image courtesy Peter Macgregor

Donald Macaulay, 7A Tolsta Chaolais

Seaman DONALD MACAULAY
Last address in Lewis: 7A Tolsta Chaolais
Son of John & Ann Macaulay, 7A Tolsta Chaolais
Service unit: Merchant Marine, SS Induna
Date of death: 1 March 1915 at the age of 30
Drowned after falling overboard from SS Induna on a voyage from Sydney to Norfolk Island
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais Memorial

Donald appears in the 1901 census at the home of his parents John (46) and Annie (45) with siblings Kenneth (21), Duncan (12), Maggie M (9), Marion (7), John (5) and Mary B. (3). 

Norman Macleod, 6 Tolsta Chaolais

Private NORMAN MACLEOD
Served as WILLIAM DICK.
Last address in Lewis: 6 Tolsta Chaolais,
Son of John and Catherine McLeod, of 806, Garscube Rd., Glasgow.
Service unit: B Coy. 2nd Bn. Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders
Service number: S/6866
Enlisted at Glasgow
Date of death: 21 April 1916 at the age of 21
Interred: Cambrin Churchyard extension, grave L2. 12.
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais

Norman appears in the 1901 census at the home of his parents John (33) and Kate (38) with siblings John (4) and Murdo (9 months). 

Norman M Macleod, 4 Tolsta Chaolais

Private NORMAN M MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 4 Tolsta Chaolais
Son of John & Ann Macleod
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Date of death: 23 August 1917 at the age of 31
Killed in action at Passchendaele
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais
Wounded at Givenchy in 1915, awarded DCM and MM

Norman appears in the 1901 census, aged 14, the son of John (66) and Annie (56) and brother of Mary (31), Dollina (16) and uncle to George (5).

Malcolm Macleod, 4 Tolsta Chaolais

Sergeant MALCOLM MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 4 Tolsta Chaolais,
Son of Donald and Catherine MacLeod, of 4, Tolsta-Chaolais, Uig, Stornoway.
Service unit: 1st Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 6141
Enlisted at Fort George
Date of death: 9 May 1915 at the age of 38
Killed in action in Festubert
Interred: Woburn Abbey Cemetery, Cuinchy, grave III. B. 14
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais
Decoration(s):Mentioned in despatches
Served in the South African Campaign, and on the North-West Frontier of India (1908).

Malcolm Macleod, 3 Tolsta Chaolais

Deckhand MALCOLM MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 3 Tolsta Chaolais
Son of Malcolm and Mary Macleod, 3 Tolsta Chaolais
Service unit: Royal Navy, HMS Eaglet
Service number: 14469/DA
Date of death: 31 December 1919 at the age of 20
Died of illness
Interred: Dalmore Cemetery
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais

Malcolm appears in the 1901 census aged 2, the son of Malcolm (48) and Mary (41) and brother of Norman (13), John (9), Roderick (7) and Annie (5).

His brother Norman was killed in 1915 serving with the Seaforth Highlanders. His brother John also served in the 2nd Seaforths, but survived the war; his brother Roderick was in the  Cameron Highlanders.

Murdo Maclean, 14 Kirivick

Seaman MURDO MACLEAN
Last address in Lewis: 14 Kirivick,
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Orama
Service number: 2049
Date of birth: 9 August 1880
Date of death: 3 June 1917
Killed on HMS Orama off South Africa
Interred: Simon's Town (Dido Valley) Cemetery, Naval Allotment Row A. Grave 18.
Local memorial: Carloway

Stornoway Gazette
The death is announced of Murdo Maclean, RNR, Kirivick who has been serving in foreign waters since the outbreak of war. The sincerest sympathy is expressed for his widow and family in their irrepairable loss.

Donald Macarthur, 12 Kirivick

Seaman DONALD MACARTHUR
Last address in Lewis: 12 Kirivick,
Son of Malcolm and Isabella MacArthur;
Husband of Jane MacArthur, of 12, Kirivick, Carloway, Stornoway, Ross-shire.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Implacable
Service number: 4443/SD
Date of birth: 12 November 1884
Date of death: 1 January 1919 at the age of 35
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire, was never found
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 32
Local memorial: Carloway

Donald appears in the 1901 census at 12 Kirivick, aged 17, son of Ella (58) and brother of Effie (21).

Kenneth John Macleod, 8 Kirivick

Seaman KENNETH JOHN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 8 Kirivick,
Son of Donald and Isabella McLeod, of 8, Kirvich Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Pembroke
Service number: 9527/A
Date of death: 28 October 1918
Died in Chatham of illness
Interred: Gillingham (Woodlands) Cemetery, grave Naval. 7. 366.
Local memorial: Carloway

Kenneth John appears in the 1901 census at Kirivick, aged 1 month, the youngest son of Donald (49) and Isabella (44) and youngest sibling of Chirsty (16), Angus (12), Donald (10), Norman (6), Malcolm (5) and  Alexander Donald (3).

His brothers Angus and Norman served in the US Army; his other brothers Donald, Alex D. and Malcolm all served in the RNR. These five all survived the war. 

John Macleod 7 Kirivick

Sergeant JOHN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 7 Kirivick,
Son of John Macleod
Service unit: 12th Black Watch (Royal Highlanders), Labour Corps transf. to (Serjt. 2404). 5th Coy.
Service number: 4274
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of death: 2 June 1917
Killed in action in France
Interred: Trois Arbres Cemetery, Steenwerck; grave I. M. 11
Local memorial: Carloway

John appears in the 1901 census at 7 Kirivick, aged 5, the son of John (45) and Annie (36), brother of Chirsty (7), Murdo (3) and Maggie (7 months). 

Stornoway Gazette
He had been promoted to Sergeant before he was killed in an explosion in France. He mobilised with the Gordon's Special Reserve, and subsequently transferred to the Black Watch. Before the outbreak of war he was serving with the Caledonian Railway Company in Glasgow.

John Macleod, 6 Kirivick

Deckhand JOHN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 6 Kirivick,
Son of Malcolm and Mary Macleod, of 6, Kirvick, Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Implacable
Service number: 19890/DA
Date of birth: 7 March 1899
Date of death: 1 January 1919 at the age of 19
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire
Interred: Dalmore Cemetery
Local memorial: Carloway

Angus Mackay, 4 Kirivick

Private ANGUS MACKAY
Last address in Lewis: 4 Kirivick,
Son of Murdo and Annie McKay, of 4, Kirvick, Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: Scots Guards / 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6898
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of death: 29 August 1915 at the age of 22
Died in Oxford of gas poisoning received at La Bassee on 9 May 1915.
Interred: Dalmore Cemetery
Local memorial: Carloway
Had gone to the front early

Angus appears in the 1901 census at 4 1/2 Kirivick, aged 7, the son of Murdo (60) and Annie (47) and brother of Malcolm (16), John (13), Christy Mary (9) and Kate Ann (3).

His brother Murdo served in the Canadians and John was in the Royal Engineers. These two survived the war.

Malcolm Macaskill, 3 Kirivick

Lance Corporal MALCOLM MACASKILL
Last address in Lewis: 3 Kirivick,
Son of Mr. and Mrs. Norman Macaskill, of 3, Kirwick Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: B Coy. 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6810
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of death: 26 April 1915 at the age of 22
Died of wounds in St Julien
Interred: Seaforth Cemetery, Cheddar Villa, grave C. 7
Local memorial: Carloway
Had been at the front since start of the war

Malcolm appears in the 1901 census at 3 1/3 Kirivick, aged 9, the son of Norman (51) and Annie (43) and brother of John (7) and Dorothy (4).

His brother John served in the Gordon Highlanders and survived the war, in spite of being wounded in 1915.

Battalion war diary, 26 April 1915
The battalion is in trenches near Wieltje, northeast of Ypres. The 2nd battle of Ypres is in progress.
Weather was very hot and sunny. There was a great deal of shelling all the time.
Very heavy shelling from 11.30 am until 12.30pm.
1.40pm: Heavy bombardment of enemy

Killed: 14
Wounded: 31

Norman Macleod, 3 Tolsta Chaolais

Private NORMAN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 3 Tolsta Chaolais,
Son of Malcolm and Mary Macleod
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/7862
Enlisted at Glasgow
Date of death: 2 May 1915 at the age of 27
Died of gas poisoning at St Julien
Memorial: Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Panel 38
Local memorial: Tolsta Chaolais

Norman appears in the 1901 census aged 13, the son of Malcolm (48) and Mary (41) and brother of John (9), Roderick (7), Annie (5) and Malcolm (2).

His brother John also served in the 2nd Seaforths, but survived the war; his brother Roderick was in the   Cameron Highlanders and Malcolm in the Trawler section of the RNR.

Battalion war diary, 2 May 1915
The battalion is engaged in the 2nd battle of Ypres, entrenched in positions to the northeast of the town. The diary entry is difficult to read.

Enemy sent over clouds of asphyxiating gas. They used this to attack, but were repulsed.

Killed: 1

Further account of Gas attack on 2nd May 1915
Our respirators were found to be no good being made out of nothing but woolen waist belts. We had several men killed from gas.

Battn had only very inefficient respirators. From 5.30pm, gas sent over. The Battn stood firm and held their trenches though nearly every man was badly affected. The Basttn on our left had to leave their trenches, which was reoccupied by the Argylls, who had to charge through the gas.
The Germans formed up ready for an attack, but we inflicted losses on them and it came to nothing. 

John Macaskill, 3 Kirivick

Seaman JOHN MACASKILL
Last address in Lewis: 3 Kirivick,
Son of Donald and Maggie Macaskill, of 3, Kirvick, Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMT Sir John Fitzgerald
Service number: 14567/DA
Date of birth: 7 February 1899
Date of death: 1 January 1919 at the age of 20
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire
Interred: Dalmore Cemetery
Local memorial: Carloway

John appears in the 1901 census at 3 Kirivick, aged 2, the son of Donald (48) and Maggie (40), and brother of Kate (1), Maggie (9), Donald (7) and Christy (4). Also present are his grandmother Mary (78) and two cousins, Bella (15) and Chirsty (13).

His brother Donald served in the Seaforth Highlanders and survived the war.

Murdo Mackay, 2 Kirivick

Seaman MURDO MACKAY
Last address in Lewis: 2 Kirivick,
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve
Date of death: 1 December 1915 at the age of 24
Died of illness
Local memorial: Carloway

His brother Donald also served in the RNR but survived the war. 

Norman Maciver, 27 Garenin

Private NORMAN MACIVER
Last address in Lewis: 27 Garenin,
Son of Mrs. Christina MacIver, of 27, Garenin, Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: 5th Cameron Highlanders
Service number: 3/5397
Enlisted at Inverness
Date of death: 12 October 1917 at the age of 26
Killed in action at Ypres
Memorial: Tyne Cot Memorial, Panel 136 to 138
Local memorials: Carloway and Tolsta Chaolais

Murdo Macritchie, 25 Garenin

Image (c) Mairi M Macritchie

Seaman MURDO MACRITCHIE
Last address in Lewis: 25 Garenin
Also quoted at 48 Keith Street, Stornoway
Son of Alexander and Christina MacRitchie, of Garenin, Stornoway;
Husband of Mary MacRitchie, of 5 Upper Carloway
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Defence
Service number: 2645B
Year of birth: 1880
Date of death: 31 May 1916 at the age of 36
Lost in the Battle of Jutland
Memorial: Chatham Naval panel 18

Malcolm Macleod, 23 Garenin

Seaman MALCOLM MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 23 Garenin,
Son of Kenneth and Mary Maclean Macleod
Husband of Annie Macleod, of 23, Garenin
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS Vindex
Service number: 2274D
Date of death: 22 September 1918 at the age of 43
Memorial: Chatham Naval Memorial, panel 30
Local memorial: Carloway

Stornoway Gazette, 11 October 1918
Official information has been received of the death of Malcolm Macleod, RNR of 23 Garenin. He joined up at the beginning of the war, sasw service in the Mediterranean and was on board the ill-fated Majestic when she was sunk. Mr Macleod, who was a deacon in the Carloway UF Church, was a bright Christian of more than the ordinary intelligence and was highly respected by all who knew him. His death has caused a blank which can hardly be filled. The Church will miss a pious and genuine Christian and the community will be much the poorer for his loss. The greatest sympathy is extended to his widow and young children in their great sorrow.

William Macdonald, 18 Garenin

Seaman WILLIAM MACDONALD
Last address in Lewis: 18 Garenin
Son of John McDonald, of 18 Garenin, Carloway, Stornoway, and the late Mary McDonald.
Born at Govan.
Service unit: Merchant Marine, SS Normandiet
Date of death: 21 April 1918 at the age of 27
Ship sunk by U-91, 34 miles SW of the Calf of Man
Memorial: Tower Hill Memorial,

William was born and grew up away from Lewis; however, the CWGC notes the address for his next-of-kin as living at 18 Garenin, hence his inclusion on this site. 

John Maclennan, 16 Garenin

Seaman JOHN MACLENNAN
Last address in Lewis: 16 Garenin,
Also quoted at 44 Lewis Street, Stornoway
Son of Donald and Annie MacLennan, of 4, Carloway, Stornoway;
Husband of Mary Maclennan, 16 Garenin
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMT Morvina
Service number: 4003/SD
Date of birth: April 1873
Date of death: 14 November 1917 at the age of 45
Died in accident
Interred: Ford Park Cemetery (formerly Plymouth Old Cemetery, Pennycomequick), grave General K. 26. 35
Local memorial: Carloway

Murdo Mackenzie, 15 Garenin

Seaman MURDO MACKENZIE
Last address in Lewis: 15 Garenin,
Son of John Mackenzie, of 15, Garenin;
Husband of Christina Mackenzie, of 4, North Shawbost, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Naval Reserve, HMS President
Service number: 2793/C
Date of birth: 20 April 1880
Date of death: 1 January 1919 at the age of 37
Drowned in sinking of HMY Iolaire
Interred: Dalmore Cemetery
Local memorial: Carloway

His brothers Donald, Norman and John all served in the RNR and survived the war. Donald was a POW in Germany from the start of the war.

Donald Macleod, 12 Garenin

Image (c) Mairi M Macritchie

Lance Corporal DONALD MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 12 Garenin,
Son of Donald and Effie Macleod, 12 Garenin
Service unit: 1st Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6965
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of death: 22 February 1917
Killed in action in Mesopotamia
Memorial: Basra Memorial, Panel 37 and 64

His brother Murdo was killed on the Western Front in 1915. His brother John, who served in the RNR, survived the war.

Stornoway Gazette
Killed in Mesopotamia
Mr Kenneth Macleod, 12 Garenin, has been notified that his son, Pte Donald Macleod, Seaforths, was killed in the Tigris fighting on February 22nd [1917]. Pte Macleod was 22 years of age, and previous to the outbreak of war was serving under the Clyde Trust. A younger brother, Murdo, was killed in France on 10th May 1916. Both lads were loyal and dutiful sons - frank, kind-hearted and of much promise. Widespread is the sorrow and heartfelt the sympathy for the parents, brothers and sisters.

Murdo Macleod, 12 Garenin

Image (c) Mairi M Macritchie

Private MURDO MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 12 Garenin,
Son of Donald and Effie MacAskill MacLeod, 12 Garenin
Service unit: 1st Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/7083
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of death: 9 May 1915
Killed in action at Neuve Chapelle
Interred: Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery, Souchez, XVII. D. 6
Local memorial: Carloway
Had been at the front for 8 months

His brother Donald, who also served in the Seaforth Highlanders, was killed in 1917. His brother John was in the RNR but survived the war. 

Malcolm Macleod, 7 Garenin

Sapper MALCOLM MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 7 Garenin
Son of Donald and Effie MacAskill MacLeod, 12 Garenin
Service unit: 3rd Canadian Engineers
Service number: 142119
Date of death: 26 June 1921 at the age of 42
Interred: Dalmore Cemetery

Date of birth: 12 July 1882
Place of birth: Isle of Lewis
Height: 5 ft 4 in
Complexion: Dark
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Black
Religion: Presbyterian
Trade / occupation: Shipwright
Volunteered at Niagara Camp on 4 August 1915

Alexander Macleod, 4 Garenin

Image (c) Mairi M Macritchie

Deckhand ALEXANDER MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 4 Garenin
Son of John and Mary Macleod, of 4, Garenin, Carloway, Stomoway, Lewis.
Service unit: Royal Navy, HMS Pekin
Service number: 12625/DA
Date of birth: 8 June 1898
Date of death: 2 December 1918 at the age of 20
Died of influenza in hospital at Chatham
Interred: Grimsby, Scartho Road Cemetery, grave 43. D. 17.
Local memorial: Carloway

Alexander appears in the 1901 census at Garenin, aged 3, the son of John (43) and Mary (42) and brother of Murdo (7), Norman (5) and Maggie (3 months).

His brother Norman served in the Seaforth Highlanders, but survived the war. 

Donald Macleod, 4 Garenin

Image (c) Mairi M Macritchie

Seaman DONALD MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 4 Garenin,
Son of Donald and Mary Macleod, of 4A, Garenin, Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Naval Division, Benbow Bttn.
Service number: PO/3409/A
Date of birth: 11 December 1891
Date of death: 1 March 1916 at the age of 24
Died in internment camp at Groningen, Holland
Interred: Groningen Southern Cemetery Northwest part, Class 4, Row 37
Mentioned on family gravestone in Dalmore Cemetery, Lewis
Local memorial: Carloway

Served in Benbow Battalion from 16 September until 9 October 1914, after which he was interned until the end of the war.

Donald appears in the 1901 census at Garenin, aged 9, the son of Donald (40) and Mary (30), and brother of Chirsty (8), John (6), Kate (4) and Maggie (2).

His brother John served in the Royal Garrison Artillery and survived the war.

John Macleod, 46 Park, Carloway

Private JOHN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 46 Park Carloway,
Son of Angus McLeod, of Mill Park, Carloway, Stornoway, Lewis, Scotland.
Service unit: 44th Canadian Infantry (New Brunswick Regiment)
Service number: 234905
Date of death: 27 April 1918 at the age of 28
Memorial: Vimy Memorial,
Local memorial: Carloway

Date of birth: 20 June 1890
Place of birth: Isle of Lewis
Height: 5 ft 11 in
Complexion: Ruddy
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Brown
Religion: Presbyterian
Trade / occupation: Farmer
Last address in Lewis: 46 Park Carloway
Current address: Fenton, SK
Volunteered at Prince Albert on 4 May 1916 

John appears in the 1891 census, aged 18 months, at the home of his grandmother Catherine (70), with his parents Angus and Christy (both aged 32) and brother of Marion (2).

Stornoway Gazette
Mr Angus Macleod, Old Schoolhouse, Mill Park, Carloway, has received the sad intelligence that his son, Pte John Macleod, Canadians, has died of wounds. The greatest sympathy is extended to the father and sisters in their great loss.

John Macarthur, 42 Park Carloway

Quarter-master JOHN MACARTHUR
Last address in Lewis: 42 Park Carloway,
Service unit: South Africans
Date of death: 1 October 1918
Local memorial: Carloway
Served from 1916 till invalided in August 1917.

Duncan Macleod, 41 Park, Carloway

Deckhand DUNCAN MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 41 Park Carloway,
Son of John and Catherine Macleod;
Husband of Catherine Macleod, of 41, Mill Park, Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: Royal Navy, HMS Pembroke
Service number: 9665/DA
Date of death: 11 February 1919 at the age of 51
Died of illness
Interred: Dalmore Cemetery

Duncan appears in the 1871 census, aged 3, the son of John (29) and Cathrine (28) and brother of Donald (5), Mary (1) and Marion (14); A decade later, John has married Anne, and has had two sons named John (aged 8 and 3) since 1871.

Donald Macleod, 41 Park, Carloway

Private DONALD MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 41 Park Carloway,
Son of John and Barbara Macleod, of 41, Carloway,
Service unit: 4th Canadian Machine Gun Corps
Service number: 443377
Date of death: 1 September 1918 at the age of 32
Killed in action
Interred: Dury Crucifix Cemetery, grave II. D. 38
Local memorial: Carloway
Joined up in 1915

Date of birth: 8 September 1888
Place of birth: Isle of Lewis
Height: 5 ft 7 in
Complexion: Fair
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Light brown
Religion: Presbyterian
Trade / occupation: Fireman
Volunteered at Vernon Camp on 24 July 1915

Donald appears in the 1901 census at the Ladies Schoolhouse in Carloway, aged 14, the son of John (61) and Barbara (44) and brother of Maggie (10), Effie (1) and Annie (3).

Stornoway Gazette, 27 September 1918
Widow John Macleod (Ian Chalum), 41 [Park] Carloway, has received intimation that her son, Pte Donald Macleod, Canadians, has been killed. He went over to British Columbia some 7 years ago, and saw over 3 years service in France. Donald was on transport duty and was killed by shell fire. He was 34 years old and of a very bright disposition and a general favourite of all he came into contact with. The greatest sympathy goes out to Mrs Macleod and family in the loss of a loyal and dutiful son and brother.

Donald Macleod, 5 Park, Carloway

Sergeant DONALD MACLEOD
Last address in Lewis: 5 Park Carloway,
Son of Donald Macleod
Service unit: Cameron Highlanders
Service number: 3/5398
Enlisted at Inverness
Date of death: 12 October 1917 at the age of 23
Died of wounds
Interred: Tyne Cot Cemetery, grave L.II C.12
Local memorial: Carloway
Decoration(s):Had been awarded Military Medal for bravery. Held Mons Star
Wounded 1914. Was employed in Inverness before the war

Donald appears in the 1901 census aged 6, the son of Donald (47) and Catherine (48) and brother of John (18), Marion (13), Christy (12), Kate A (10) and Kenneth (5 months).

His brother John served in the Canadians from 1916 to 1918.

 Stornoway Gazette
Another gallant son of Carloway has fallen. Donald Macleod, 5 Park Carloway, has received intelligence that his son, sergt. Donald Macleod, Camerons, was killed in action on 12 October 1917. The sad news cast a gloom over the whole district. Sergt Donald Macleod, who was only aged 23, was employed at Inverness at the outbreak of war. Mobilised with the 3rd Cameron Highlanders, he proceeded to France on September 14th and was in the thick of it ever since. Over a year ago, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and lately he was recommended for a high honour, and had he survived, he would have been decorated on coming out of the trenches. It was not to be, however. He was a young man of upright character, a most dutiful son, a genial and true friend, and a general favourite with all who knew him. The greatest sympathy is extended to his bereaved parents, brothers and sisters in their great sorrow. His officer writes:

"Today we mourn with you the loss of your gallant son, Sergt. Donald Macleod, killed in action 12/10/17. He was my platoon sergeant and could not have had one more trustworthy or capable of leading his men in action. We, his surviving officers, extend to you a hand in deepest sympathy and desire to express our own sense of loss in a good comrade gone".

John Paterson, 3 Park, Carloway

Private JOHN PATERSON
Last address in Lewis: 3 Park Carloway,
Son of Norman and Margaret Paterson, of 3, Park, Carloway
Service unit: 5th Cameron Highlanders
Service number: 3/5297
Enlisted at Inverness
Date of death: 18 July 1916 at the age of 21
Killed in action at the Somme
Memorial: Thiepval Memorial, Pier and Face 15B,
Local memorial: Carloway

John appears in the 1901 census, aged 5, one of the eight children of Norman (43) and Margaret (40); the others being Johanna (12), Annie (10), Murdo (9), Mary (7), Maggie (4), Angus (3) and George (1).

His brother Angus was in the RNR and survived the war; John was in the Cameron Highlanders  and was killed in 1918.

Murdo Paterson, 3 Park, Carloway

Sergeant MURDO PATERSON
Last address in Lewis: 3 Park Carloway,
Service unit: 16th Highland Light Infantry
Service number: 13734
Enlisted at Glasgow
Date of death: 4 November 1918 at the age of 26
Killed in action in France
Interred: Ors British Cemetery, grave B. 24
Local memorial: Carloway

Murdo appears in the 1901 census, aged 9, one of the eight children of Norman (43) and Margaret (40); the others being Johanna (12), Annie (10), Mary (7), John (5), Maggie (4), Angus (3) and George (1).

His brother Angus was in the RNR and survived the war; John was in the Cameron Highlanders  and was killed in 1918.

Kenneth Macarthur, 2 Park, Carloway

Private KENNETH MACARTHUR
Last address in Lewis: 2 Park Carloway,
Service unit: 8th Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 3/6906
Enlisted at Stornoway
Date of death: 12 September 1916 at the age of 24
Died of wounds
Interred: Heilly Station Cemetery, Mericourt-L'Abbe, grave IV. C. 12
Local memorial: Carloway

Mobilised as special reservist with Seaforths at commencement of war; was wounded at Neuve Chapelle and Festubert. Returned to France after recovering in April 1916, and died of wounds 12 September 1916.

His brother Donald also served in the Seaforth Highlanders and survived the war.

Duncan Mackay, 1 Park, Carloway

Private DUNCAN MACKAY
Last address in Lewis: 1 Park Carloway
Son of Norman Mackay, of Park, Carloway, Stornoway.
Service unit: 2nd Seaforth Highlanders
Service number: 7443
Date of death: 18 June 1915 at the age of 18
Killed in action at Ypres
Interred: Bard Cottage Cemetery, VI. C. 8
Local memorial: Carloway
Had been at the front for only a few weeks

Duncan appears in the 1901 census aged 4, the son of Norman and Catherine (both aged 34) and brother of John (8) and Catherine (1).

Battalion war diary for 18 June 1915
The battalion is entrenched on the eastern bank of the Yser Canal, north of Ypres. The diary entry refers to the period of 17 to 22 June 1915

Wonderful weather. Comparatively quiet week, with exception of the usual shelling, which was particularly annoying along the canal after dark. The line taken over was pretty good. We've put a lot of work into it and improved it a great deal. On the left of our line at a small salient, the Germans have sapped forward and made a T trench within 25 yards of our trench. They are supposed to be mining or at any rate boring there. Exploded a small mine there just before we took over. Elsewhere, the trenches are about 300 yards apart. The Germans do not seem offensive and are consolidating their line as hard as they can. Several casualties during the week, mostly from shell fire, and some from bullets.