Struck Scotland

The recent Hogmanay meteorite struck, remarkably, almost exactly a century since the famous Strathmore meteorite struck on December 3, 1917,” emails Roderick Stewart.

“The Strathmore meteorite was so bright that it had been spotted in daylight from Edinburgh and four fragments were soon recovered from Easter Essendy, Carsie, Keithick and South Corston, farms east of Coupar Angus.

“It is reputed to be the only meteorite to have been observed to strike in Scotland and the four fragments are also the only meteorites known to have been recovered in Scotland.

“One fragment was discovered when its arrival disturbed a flock of sheep and another penetrated a house roof. The whole fascinating story is the subject of a small centenary exhibition in the National Museum of Scotland which runs until April 1.

“Meteorites are typically rich in iron and the presence of this important metal gives us clues to the formation of the solar system. Iron also plays a most important part in the structure of Dundee’s HMS Unicorn, which was built under the supervision of Sir Robert Seppings and incorporates his immensely important developments, improving hull rigidity and replacing timber with iron.

“This was the first integrated review of shipbuilding in centuries and paved the way for the transition to the steamship. No other ship survives to illustrate so effectively the start of this world-changing transition.”

Jim Howie has sent in the postcard which shows the Fettercairn Games milking competition in 1908. “A gentleman in a top hat is paying close attention,” says Jim, “while bowler and straw hats, as well as bonnets cover the men’s heads at what was a very...