Congested Districts Board (Scotland) facts for kids
The Congested Districts Board (Scotland) was a special group created in 1897. Its job was to help improve life in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. The British Government gave money to the Board to make these areas better.
It was officially called the Congested Districts (Scotland) Commissioners. The Board included important people like the Secretary for Scotland. It also had leaders from groups like the Local Government Board for Scotland and the Fishery Board for Scotland. Up to three other people could also join, chosen by the Secretary for Scotland.
The Board was similar to a group in Ireland called the Congested Districts Board for Ireland. This Irish group was started by Arthur Balfour, a well-known politician at the time.
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What Did the Board Do?
The Board had several main goals to help people in the Highlands and Islands.
Helping Farmers and Fishers
- Agriculture: They helped farmers by giving them seeds, like potatoes and oats. They also provided special animals to help improve farm animal breeds.
- Fishing: They worked to make the fishing industry better. This included improving important things like lighthouses, piers, and harbours.
Supporting Local Industries
- Home Industries: The Board also supported local crafts. This included helping with skills like spinning yarn and weaving cloth.
Improving Travel and Homes
- Roads and Bridges: They aimed to make roads and bridges better for easier travel.
- Moving Crofters: The Board also helped crofters (small-scale farmers) move to other parts of Scotland. This was to help them find new opportunities.
An Example of Their Work
The Board helped with many projects. One good example is the small jetty and slip they built on Hirta, part of St Kilda. This project happened between 1899 and 1901.
For many years, different groups had talked about building this jetty. But it was only when the local community and their minister asked for help that things really started. The creation of the Congested Districts Board made it happen. Engineers from the Scottish Office worked on the project. Local St Kildan people also helped with the labor. The Board paid for and managed the entire project.
The End of the Board
The Congested Districts Board (Scotland) stopped existing in 1911. This happened because of a new law called the Small Landholders (Scotland) Act 1911. The Board's duties and powers were then given to a new group. This new group was called the Board of Agriculture for Scotland.
Even though the Board was gone, most of the original 1897 law is still in use today. Its functions are now handled by the Scottish Ministers.
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