Cromarty Parish Explored by Highland Archive Centre on Black Isle

Cromarty parish sits at Ross & Cromarty’s east end. It’s the Black Isle’s northeast corner. The Cromarty Firth borders it to the northeast and Rosemarkie parish lies to the south, while Resolis parish is to the west. The east side is rocky and the north gently slopes towards Cromarty Firth.

Cromarty town is the main settlement. Hugh Miller was born there, and it was historically a royal burgh.

Cromarty was a royal burgh by the 12th century, with Robert I linking it to the earldom of Ross. The status became unclear in 1475, but a 1593 charter reinstated Cromarty’s royal status. Parliament accepted Cromarty’s resignation in 1672, after which it functioned as a barony burgh. The town council ceased operations in 1975 when the Highland Regional Council assumed its powers.

The Highland Archive Centre holds the town council minutes, spanning from 1848 to 1975. The archive also contains records about health and the harbor. These files encompass discussions on sewers, transport, and housing.

A police report book is a notable find, covering the period from 1869 to 1891. The book lists reported crimes, providing details on victims and witnesses. Common crimes involved theft and assault.

More unusual occurrences included reckless firearm use, accidental fires, and unlicensed alcohol sales.

One particular crime stood out: “Furious Driving.” Constable Campbell reported the incident in 1870. Colin McIvor rode a horse fast on Church Street.
Jannet Skinner, carrying fish, was struck by the horse, leading to her fall. She bruised her hand and leg and sustained other injuries.