Moray or Morayshire?

IN converstion recently when asked where was I born, my answer was ‘In the Black Isle, in the County of Ross and Cromarty’ now currently referred to as Ross-shire.

My request then to the earlier speaker ‘And where were you born?’ the answer was ‘In Morayshire on the outskirts of Elgin’.

I have been most interested in this country of Morayshire, for my belief is there has never been an official area named Moray-shire. Am I right or am I wrong?

When those long years ago at the age of five I was drummed off to primary school, Killen Public School as it was known, we had on the wall before us a huge colourful map of our dear country showing all Scottish counties, including Elgin-shire, no Moray with or without the shire tail.

I well remember reading Forfar-shire, later to become Angus but do not clearly recall taking note of Ross and Cromarty. I am, however confident there was no Ross-shire at that time. Neither of the latter two counties is of particular interest at the moment, just Moray. What research I have so far done leaves me with no clear answers. I hope some knowledgable reader will educate me.

One it is said, is never too old to learn. if it will help I will willingly sit in the corner with the big D cap on for a day, no photographs.

Donnie Williamson

The Dirkens

Forres

Can you shed any light on Donnie’s claims? email us at newsdesk@forres-gazette.co.uk