Days gone by – Martin MacIntyre

This photograph of Martin MacIntyre (1892-1978) – known locally as Masha Cobbler – was taken when he was in his early 80s. He was a well-known character in Oban throughout his life. The MacIntyres of his generation grew up in Glenshellach Terrace and High Street. He volunteered at a young age to serve in the First World War and saw action at Gallipoli. Masha also fought in the Second World War but, apart from his military service and a spell in America, he lived all his life in Oban. Masha was a fisherman renowned for mending nets. As a young man, he played shinty for Oban Camanachd. Although he never married, a great many of his extended family continue to live in the Oban area.