Those of us who regularly walk, cycle or drive around Collieston and Slains will be well aware of the fact that, at all times of the year, a farmer’s work is never done. At the end of the summer months, with the combine-harvesters out in force, we are particularly reminded of the old saying ‘Make hay while the sun shines’.  The sentiment conveyed in the phrase is to be much commended but, as we have seen over recent weeks, we can depend on the farming community to ‘make hay’, if only the sun would keep its side of the bargain!

Over the past one hundred years, farming methods have changed dramatically. The word ‘horsepower’ now has a completely different meaning from the one it would have had when this month’s old photo was taken, circa 1910, when the Fyvie Family farmed at Milton of Collieston Farm.

The Fyvie Family, here represented by at least three generations all of whom are very smartly attired, would have had several employees (fee’d farm servants) working for them both in the farmhouse and on the farm itself.

As the name suggests, there was a mill on the farm, in addition to a substantial number of horses.

To the rear of the family, horses are pulling a plough, with a watchful eye being kept on them by the horseman.

Please get in touch if you can provide further information about Milton of Collieston Farm; the Fyvie Family and their employees; farming in Collieston/Slains at the beginning of the 20th century.

If you are able to help or wish to have any of your photos featured in the months ahead please e-mail colliestononline@yahoo.co.uk