Auchmithie Harbour

Auchmithie Harbour, near Arbroath, Angus.

The two buildings sitting in the foreground caught my eye. I have no idea what they are used for.

Auchmithie has a rich history as a fishing village, especially during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Situated near Arbroath in Angus, Scotland, Auchmithie played a pivotal role in the herring fishing industry of that era.

Herring fishing was a major economic activity in coastal Scotland during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The herring "silver darlings" were abundant in the waters off the Scottish coast, and communities like Auchmithie thrived on the trade. The herring catch was processed and preserved in barrels for export, contributing significantly to Scotland's economy.

Auchmithie's location along the rugged Angus coastline provided access to rich fishing grounds, and its harbour served as a hub for fishing activities. The village would have been bustling with activity during the fishing seasons, as fishermen set out in their boats to catch herring and returned to shore to process and prepare the catch for sale and export.

The decline of the herring fishing industry in the mid-20th century, driven by factors such as overfishing, changing consumer preferences, and the development of alternative fishing methods, had a profound impact on communities like Auchmithie. However, the village's fishing heritage is still evident today, and it remains a charming coastal destination with a connection to its maritime past.

This picture was taken on 29 January 2024.