WWI visitor to Luss

[elbe]

In late September 1918 [Australian] Lance Corporal Alexander Thursday BAIN was granted leave from fighting. He went to visit his 'Scottish cousins'. His maternal grandmother's family came from Luss.  His grandmother, Jane MCFARLAN (b. 1836) m. Alexander Whitecross in June 1862 at Luss. [They  migrated to Queensland soon after.]
I don't know if the 'Scottish cousins' were this line, the Whitecross line or his paternal cousins.
Here's my question: would there have been any reporting eg in a local newspaper of such a visit at the time? Or perhaps stories handed down of the visit? A long shot, I know; but your thoughts on the matter would be appreciated.

[murray61]

A New Zealand cousin of mine visited his Scottish Uncle and family when he was on leave during WWI.

We are fortunate to have the letter he wrote home to his family in New Zealand, describing his visit.

A newspaper report would be unlikely due to the paper rationing and censorship of all matters military.  Newspapers in those days did not print many "lighter" articles anyway - all serious stuff.

Good luck

[elbe]

Good point! I've read the Sydney Morning Herald of that era and it's quite serious in tone. It was just a vague thought it see which of the Scottish lines my grandfather, AT Bain, visited. The lines are (geographically) spread out so I imagine, especially since money was scarce and his leave was short, he only visited one area: Luss, Tarbat or Haddington. I was hoping for letters too: family lore says my grandmother wrtoe to Scottish cousins until well into her marriage. I may never know, but it does help put flesh on their lives, doesn't it!
Thanks for replying.

[patriciae]

I have family born in Luss and buried in the church yard there, its a beautiful place.
Dumbarton Library have a very good researchers and if you email they might be able to send you in the right direction.
dumbarton.local.history@west-dunbarton.gov.uk>;
I know they have micro film of the Lennox Hearld going back to 1850, but don't know if it covers Luss, but worth a try, I'm sure they can advise you.

[elbe]

Thanks for the e-address Patriciae.
BTW I note your research list includes McFarlan - do you have a Jane McFarlan, b. 1836, married 20 June 1862 (both at Luss); and emigrated before 25 March 1863?

[patriciae]

Sorry Elbe don't seem to find one in my tree,  that's not saying there's not a connection, just that I've not gone into the McFarlane's in Luss to any great extent.
I do know that there are a lot of Bain's in Luss.
I was going into the Glen's side of my tree, my grandmother's family.
Were you aware that there was a soap called "Take the High Road" which was on British tv during the 80's and early 90's that was filmed at Luss, it was on daily for about 10 years I think. I remember my Dad telling us, but at the time not really taking that much notice, if only.
I will try and do a bit of research and see if I can find them, as if you go far enough back they all seem to be connected, I also have a memorial inscriptions book of Luss grave yard, so will check that out also, sad I know.

Will get back to you.
Regards  Tricia.