Jemimaville Village - c1920
Albums: Jemimaville
156 Comments
I live in Brighton, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, and am interested in Jane Duncan. I have a complete set of her "My Friend" books and re-read them periodically. My husband and I visited Reachfar in 1998 and am interested in finding more information about Jane Duncan..
Comment left on 20 February 2004 by Elise Hall
I was looking through Jemimaville on the web and found your entry.
I, too, am a fan of Jane Duncan having started reading her books in 1968 when I lived in the Far East. I do not, however, have a complete set of her books.
I have seen The Colony from the distance - it was too far up hill for my husband and myself to walk! I have also visited her grave - many times, and also been to the house on the shore called Reachfar which she owned latterly. I even rented out her cottage on the main street of Jemimaville for a week. She had a bookshop and coffee shop in Cromarty itself which I discovered. Comment left on 01 July 2004 at 13:31 by Jan Robey
I, too, am a fan of Jane Duncan having started reading her books in 1968 when I lived in the Far East. I do not, however, have a complete set of her books.
I have seen The Colony from the distance - it was too far up hill for my husband and myself to walk! I have also visited her grave - many times, and also been to the house on the shore called Reachfar which she owned latterly. I even rented out her cottage on the main street of Jemimaville for a week. She had a bookshop and coffee shop in Cromarty itself which I discovered. Comment left on 01 July 2004 at 13:31 by Jan Robey
Jane Duncan was Matron of honour at my wedding. If you contact me I will try to give you further information. Our family knew her well.
Comment left on 02 February 2005 at 20:44 by Mary Mackay now Harrison
Just found this picture and the tallest building at top of picture was Jimmy and Kathy Fergusons shop made comment on other picture but now have seen this I know I was mistaken about other picture sorry
Comment left on 21 September 2005 at 20:15 by HAZEL PENDLE (NEE MACLEAN)
That shop was there for many years - I grew up in Jemimaville and when I was young the shop was owned by a Mr & Mrs Riddle then Mr & Mrs Douglas and in the late sixties Kath & Jimmy took it over. Although I left the village in 1960 I was sad to hear the shop had closed - it was the heart of the village. Happy memories. Yes the Garage is still going now run by brothers Hugh & James Scott.
Comment left on 22 September 2005 at 20:51 by Mary Mackay now Harrison
I landed on this Jemimaville site tonight by sheer accident. The photos took me down memory lane. As a young boy, I used to visit a lady there called Sally Ralph, this must have been the late 40's/early50's. She must be dead many years now, but if any old resident can provide me with any information on Sally, it would be much appreciated.
Comment left on 10 February 2006 at 10:46 by Don A Munro, Brisbane, Australia
Hello Don
I'm sure if you contact Mary Mackay who has added her comments on this page, she will be able to let you know about Sally Ralph and, indeed may know someone who knew her.
Jan Comment left on 10 February 2006 at 18:14 by Jan Robey
I'm sure if you contact Mary Mackay who has added her comments on this page, she will be able to let you know about Sally Ralph and, indeed may know someone who knew her.
Jan Comment left on 10 February 2006 at 18:14 by Jan Robey
Yes Don, I can give you info on Sally - she was friend to all, young and old alike. I spent most of my time in Sally's company as I lived about 5 doors away. She died in a Nursing home in Muir-of Ord in 1993. Feel free to contact if you have any questions. Peace and Love, Mary.
Comment left on 11 February 2006 at 22:28 by Mary Mackay now Tomlinson Harrison
To Mary and Jan, Thank you for responding so quickly. For Mary, I'd be grateful to learn a little more about Sally. May I take up your offer? You can contact me by email on [email protected]
Comment left on 12 February 2006 at 20:10 by Don A Munro, Brisbane, Australia
Don I'm sorry but I've tried to send you an Email but it keeps being returned as"Unknown Host" I can give you information on Sally (her name was Relph not Ralph)
Comment left on 13 February 2006 at 20:46 by Mary Mackay now Tomlinson Harrison
Its really great to see such in an interest in the metropolis of Jemimaville! I am Jane Scott, eldest Daughter of James Scott of the Garage. Happy to inform all that the Garage is still going strong. My father knew Jane Duncan very well, and she owned our house at one point 'The Old Hall'. Father struck a deal with Jane and purchased the house, developing it oh some 35-36 years ago. To Don of Brisbane, I knew Sally too, a lovely lady. My Mother and Father still visit Kathy Ferguson who now stays in Invergordon. Jimmy died a few years back and is sorely missed.
Comment left on 16 June 2006 at 15:23 by Jane M Scott
Hi Jane, I know your father but moved from Newhall 38 years ago to Cambridge -shire. I would be grateful if you would pass on that. I often think of them at the garage and I know it's still running as Geordie still takes his car there. And if Mum and Dad would say hello to Kathy Ferguson when they next see her I would be grateful thankyou. Yes many fond memories of Jemimaville Kathy and Jimmys Shop many a time spent there with Kathleen Joan and young James as he was called!!!! Thanks once again Hazel
Comment left on 18 June 2006 at 20:55 by HAZEL PENDLE (NEE MACLEAN)
To Hazel, I will of course pass on your good wishes. Was up North (just back down today) to see Father for Fathers Day. We spent sometime online on Friday night looking at the pictures here. I had hoped to raid the family photo box as there are a few old pictures of the village from 'our end' which I'd like to put on the site. If you wish to get in touch with Mum and Dad, contact me via email and I'll pass on their home email address. Best wishes, Janey.
Comment left on 18 June 2006 at 22:04 by Jane M Scott
Hello, I made an entry further up the page in relation to Jane Duncan. Does anybody know the present owners' surname who live in The Old Store? It's an Orcadian name ... Frobisher or something like that. I've forgotten - I usually send them a Christmas card and, although it's a bit early, thought I would ask seeing you old Jemimavillans are adding comments to the site.
Comment left on 20 June 2006 at 16:10 by Jan Robey
Comment left on 20 June 2006 at 16:10 by Jan Robey
I have been searching the internet for references to Jane Duncan and was interested to stumble across this page. She was a relative of mine: my great aunt (although she died before I was born). My mother (her niece) is one of the Cameron children featured in the Camerons books. I have just started reading Letter from Reachfar today and hope to go on to read some others! Very interesting to know that there are still people interested in her books, just a pity that most are out of print and seemingly hard (or expensive) to get hold of.
Comment left on 28 September 2006 at 00:45 by Gareth Hollands
I have been a huge fan of Jane Duncan's books for many years, and have finally been able to purchase 'My Friends George and Tom' which completes my collection. I hope to visit Jemimaville soon. Can anyone tell me where she is buried?
Comment left on 27 October 2006 at 22:36 by Angela Campbell
I believe Jane Duncan is buried in Kirkmichael graveyard which isn't far from the village. If you are in Jemimaville you look across to the graveyard it is just round from Newhall Point.
Comment left on 28 October 2006 at 10:08 by Jane M Scott
Jane is right - Kirkmichael graveyard is opposite Jemimaville. As you enter the churchyard, take the path down to the sea and about two thirds of the way down (if I remember) Jane's grave is in front of her brother's looking out towards the Colony - which is the row of houses on the skyline opposite.
Comment left on 29 October 2006 at 06:49 by Jan Robey
There is a website about Kirkmichael which also has further information on Jane Duncan:
www.kirkmichael.info. Comment left on 29 October 2006 at 16:20 by Gareth Hollands
www.kirkmichael.info. Comment left on 29 October 2006 at 16:20 by Gareth Hollands
Looks like both Jan and Gareth have confirmed the spot for Jane Duncan. I've sent in some of my photos of Jemimaville, Kirkmichael and some others. Hopefully they'll be accepted and published soon.
Oh Gareth, impressed to see you hunting out your relative. If any of us can give you further info please let us know. Comment left on 29 October 2006 at 19:20 by Jane M Scott
Oh Gareth, impressed to see you hunting out your relative. If any of us can give you further info please let us know. Comment left on 29 October 2006 at 19:20 by Jane M Scott
This is Elise Hall again, I can't believe how many comments there are now.
A small but passionate area of interest and I wonder how many more of us are out there. It is a beautiful part of the world, made special by Jane Duncan for some of us.
Comment left on 31 October 2006 at 01:14 by Elise Hall
A small but passionate area of interest and I wonder how many more of us are out there. It is a beautiful part of the world, made special by Jane Duncan for some of us.
Comment left on 31 October 2006 at 01:14 by Elise Hall
Judging by the prices some of Jane's books bring on E Bay, there must be more devoted fans out there!
Comment left on 02 November 2006 at 21:11 by Angela Campbell
It may be interesting to know that some of Jane Duncan's work was translated into Dutch. As a boy, Camerons on the Train was one of my favourite books. I kind of fancied your mother, Gareth! :-) I've only recently discovered the My Friend books. It's amazing how she brings those characters to life: Tom, George, the "Ould Leddy", Janet herself... it's like you're there in the room with them. Truly amazing. A world so near (after all, what's eighty years) and yet so far away...
Comment left on 03 November 2006 at 04:48 by Paul Vinkenoog
Angela - I have often thought that Jane must have a huge body of fans and what could be done about it. A web site maybe which might persuade a publisher to reprint her books.
Comment left on 03 November 2006 at 07:42 by Jan Robey
Perhaps as Jan states.......there needs to be a website....Gareth, you are a relative, what do you think? Is there a Jane Duncan fellowship, group or something? I must admit I've not read a book, I bought one for my Mother Margaret a few years back, one of the My friends.......
The fondness for the books appears strong, is there a chance that a film or series could be produced around them? Perhaps the modern media is a way to let Jane Duncan reappear?
Comment left on 03 November 2006 at 19:52 by Jane M Scott
The fondness for the books appears strong, is there a chance that a film or series could be produced around them? Perhaps the modern media is a way to let Jane Duncan reappear?
Comment left on 03 November 2006 at 19:52 by Jane M Scott
Great idea Jan. I don't personally know anyone else who has read these books, so have never been able to enjoy any discussion about them! However, the comments are growing quickly on this site, so I think there'd be a lot of interest.
Comment left on 03 November 2006 at 20:35 by Angela Campbell
Hi Jane, I read The my Friends series of books must be 20 or more years ago, they were in my local Library. I liked them so much as you read some of them although she changed the names it was in and around Jemimaville and Udale!! Also my sister Patricia (TRISH MACIVER) used to be housekeeper for Jane Duncan. And yes it would be great if they could make a Film or series. And to Elsie yes it is a beautiful part of the world always be home to me.
Comment left on 03 November 2006 at 21:22 by HAZEL PENDLE (NEE MACLEAN)
Hi Jan and Angela, sounds like a great idea to create a web site and maybe a film or TV series. There are still some books in our local library in large print, so the interest is still there. I would love to know how much of her writing was autobiographical, it seems so real when reading her "My Friends" books. She really made the characters seem like people you would like to meet.
p.s. to Angela my name is Elise, not Elsie! Comment left on 05 November 2006 at 13:06 by Elise Hall
p.s. to Angela my name is Elise, not Elsie! Comment left on 05 November 2006 at 13:06 by Elise Hall
To All, it is my understanding through conversations on Jane Duncan with my Parents that all the books were derived from 'characters' locally. I'm not sure it was always held as particulary complimentary to those who resided around the area at the times of her writing. Changing the names to those further afield is one thing, but to those locally........well all knew who was who! To all, I've got my first book now purchased today off ebay.........so I'll read and see what the interest is all about :D As for the TV series idea......we no longer have Hamish MacBeth, no longer have Monarch of the Glen........so what about the My Friends? Not sure how to pitch them to a production team, need to do some research.
Comment left on 05 November 2006 at 20:48 by Jane M Scott
Comment left on 05 November 2006 at 20:48 by Jane M Scott
Well, I think that the web site could certainly be the first step before launching the idea further. Unfortunately, I am web site illiterate! Anyone there with sufficient knowledge?
Comment left on 06 November 2006 at 14:26 by Jan Robey
I forgot to add that in April this year, I contacted the Kirkmichael Trust who offered to put any info re Jane Duncan on their web site and keep it there pending the start of a Jane Duncan web site.
Comment left on 06 November 2006 at 14:31 by Jan Robey
Could plans include a discussion site for readers to share perceptions etc. about the books? I'd love to discuss them with other readers.
(P.S. To Elise - when did I refer to you as Elsie?) Comment left on 06 November 2006 at 20:22 by Angela Campbell
(P.S. To Elise - when did I refer to you as Elsie?) Comment left on 06 November 2006 at 20:22 by Angela Campbell
Well, I have taken some steps at least. So that we do not clog up this page with 'Jane Duncan comments' I propose we open an MSN group to discuss a web site and give us a chance to talk about the books. Perhaps anybody interested in this idea, could email me? I shall be away from 11 to 18 November so will not have access to a pc.
Comment left on 08 November 2006 at 10:19 by Jan Robey
Dear All, please see some photos that the site has uploaded for me.
Comment left on 11 November 2006 at 16:48 by Jane M Scott
Ref comment about J duncan material for inclusion / "storage" on Kirkmichael website please contact the site developer on [email protected]. if anyone wishes to go this route.
Comment left on 30 December 2006 at 04:06 by Gavin Meldrum
Comments about the Jane Duncan "My Friend..." series. I read these books years ago and have since re-read them two or three times. I am now in the process of purchasing the series and have them all but My Friends George and Tom. I would love to be involved with a web site forum. I think a TV series, as long as it is done in Britian, would be wonderful.
Comment left on 26 February 2007 at 20:48 by Blue
Is anyone aware of whether there is a published local history of Jemimaville and/or the surrounding area? I am researching Jane Duncan (Elizabeth Jane Cameron) and would also be interested in corresponding with anyone who has any memories of her or of her family.
Comment left on 17 May 2007 at 03:59 by Rita Rippetoe, PhD
I first read Jane Duncan's books years ago and have re-read them many times, they took me to the Black Isle ten years ago and I have been returning often to spend time in that lovely place ever since. The Colony is in bad repair now and quite difficult to get to except on foot. I found Uncle George's grave in the Gaelic Cemetary in Cromarty, the grave's quite near the church and has Jane's father, grandfather, grandmother and aunts' names on the rather grand four sided headstone. Donny Munro (I stay b & b at Newfield, near Kirkmichael, with him and his wife Jean) took me to see Kathy Ferguson before she left Jemimaville and she very kindly answered my many questions about Jane Duncan, I remember going home with fresh strawberries and some wonderful homemade raspberry jam!!
Comment left on 10 September 2007 at 14:43 by Diane Thatcher
Diane, Kathy is good and now in Invergordon. Legend in the Jam making stakes! We are lucky enough to get some home baked goodies at Christmas. Mum and Dad visit from time to time to catch up.
Comment left on 14 September 2007 at 18:37 by Jane M Scott
Jane, please ask them to give my regards to Kathy. I think of her every time I pass through Jemimaville (which is getting more and more often)!
Comment left on 19 September 2007 at 11:38 by Diane Thatcher
The name of the people who live in "The Old Store" (which now carries the additional name of "Reachfar") is Mr and Mrs Foubister. Foubister is an Orcadian name.
Comment left on 16 October 2007 at 23:12 by Jenny
In the '60s I had a very upsetting teaching practice but a kind tutor handed me a copy of one of Jane Duncan's books. She told me to read it and not to worry. I did and immediately forgot my problems. Since then I have read all of her work. Thank you Jane Duncan. I would love to know what happened to her niece & nephews.
Comment left on 21 October 2007 at 14:35 by Elizabeth Lloyd
Hi Elizabeth, I wonder which book that was! Did it have anything to do with teaching or was it just great reading so it made you relax? As for the Cameron children, look at Gareth Hollands' messages on this page. I've also googled their names a while ago and got multiple hits. I somehow concluded that the lady from the Forestry Commission was "our" Shona, but I don't remember why.
Comment left on 21 October 2007 at 16:37 by Paul Vinkenoog
Hi Elizabeth (and anyone else reading this),
Jane Duncan was my great aunt (although I never met her) and Shona of the books is my mother. Feel free to email me if you have any questions about the family and I might be able to help. Comment left on 21 October 2007 at 23:57 by Gareth Hollands
Jane Duncan was my great aunt (although I never met her) and Shona of the books is my mother. Feel free to email me if you have any questions about the family and I might be able to help. Comment left on 21 October 2007 at 23:57 by Gareth Hollands
Hi Paul, I can't remember which book it was but I do remember the shock when Twice died in a book I read later.I took Gareth up on his offer and brought the story of The Hungry Generation up to date.However before I turn into a Barbara Pym character I think I should stop! Elizabeth Lloyd 25th October '07
Comment left on 25 October 2007 at 12:26 by Elizabeth Lloyd
Hi Elizabeth, the book you are referring to is "My Friend the Swallow" and while checking which book it is, brought a lump in my throat.
Comment left on 30 November 2007 at 09:53 by Elise Hall
Thank you, Elise, I am going to read that book again.
Comment left on 01 December 2007 at 12:41 by Elizabeth Lloyd
I was hoping to visit Jemimaville in the coming year. This year I visited Perth and asked about Jane Duncan in several bookstores. I did find that some of her childrens's books had been republished with a new artist. So I bought the two available for my own grandchildren.
I think a TV series would be excellent. Reprinting her books would be even better. I do not have a complete set and those still in our library have occasionally disappeared never to return. If anyone knows anywhere I could find My Friend My Father, My Friends George & Tom or Letter from Reachfar please contact me. Information on Jemimaville's tourist accommodation would be welcome also. Bed& Breakfast Establishments seemed to be available in the Loch Tay and Loch Rannoch areas, what is it like around the Colony and environs.
I would be glad to hear from anyone. Comment left on 13 December 2007 at 16:55 by Betty Hyland
I think a TV series would be excellent. Reprinting her books would be even better. I do not have a complete set and those still in our library have occasionally disappeared never to return. If anyone knows anywhere I could find My Friend My Father, My Friends George & Tom or Letter from Reachfar please contact me. Information on Jemimaville's tourist accommodation would be welcome also. Bed& Breakfast Establishments seemed to be available in the Loch Tay and Loch Rannoch areas, what is it like around the Colony and environs.
I would be glad to hear from anyone. Comment left on 13 December 2007 at 16:55 by Betty Hyland
Betty - have you tried www.abebooks.co.uk? An excellent site for tracking down and buying unusual or out of print books.
Comment left on 14 December 2007 at 10:07 by Colin
Hi Betty I run a B & B which is only one mile from Jemimaville. The name of the house is Newfield and the web address is www.newfield-bb.co.uk
Comment left on 14 December 2007 at 13:43 by Jean Munro
Betty Im certain that "Newfield" will be a very good place to stay when you decide to stay I have known the Munro family for many I grew up with Donnie and his brothers and they are a very very fine family enjoy your trip I envy you
Comment left on 14 December 2007 at 21:37 by Mary MacKay now Tomlinson Harrison
Thanks everyone for your help. I took the information over to my daughter and grandaughter for them to digest as well. My granddaughter will be in University till April so our trip will probably be timed for May. But as I said this is the planning time.
Betty Comment left on 15 December 2007 at 22:35 by Betty Hyland
Betty Comment left on 15 December 2007 at 22:35 by Betty Hyland
Colin, the abebooks.co.uk website for tracking down out of print books has been useful, I had been trying for sometime to get the last book in a trilogy by Josephine Cox, Vagabonds and with your help it has now been ordered and is on its way. Many thanks.
Comment left on 16 December 2007 at 19:56 by Jean Bell
Hi there. I've just come across this site from way down in London and wondered if anybody has any information on an Evelyn Moir/Chisholm? I knew her in her early 20's and last I knew, she was running a farm with Kenneth in Balblair. She was a lovely woman, incredibly generous and so devoted to her children and grandchildren, particularly a wee girl from Jemimaville itself as I recall. She'd be in her 60's now. Does anybody here know of her? Please let me know as soon as possible. any information hugely appreciated. Thank You.
Comment left on 25 April 2008 at 01:23 by Karen
My great grandfather was Hugh Munro (died 1877)married to Ann Munro and my great, great grandfather was Donald Munro (farmer) married to Mary Munro (nee Ross) both from Jemimaville. I wondered if any of descendants were still around or if there are any parish records? I will be passing through Jemimaville from Edinburgh week commecning 12 July 2008. Any help would be much appreciated.
Comment left on 05 July 2008 at 12:44 by Ann Stoddart (nee Munro)
I, too, stumbled across this site more or less by accident. I have been a "fan" for many years and own all her works. A couple of years ago I visited the area - first time north of Edinburgh, although I know the lowland corridor well, - and was blessed by fabulous weather (as so often in early autumn). I visited all the "sights/sites" and felt a really strong connection, following from knowledge of the books. I shall never tire of reading/rereading them. I would so love to know what happened to her niece and nephews.
Comment left on 17 September 2008 at 12:30 by Penny Harrison
I am researching my family tree and Eliza Innes, my ancester, married a Thomas Ross who, according to the 1891 Census, was the police Constable in Jemimaville residing at No 17 High St. They had three children Henrietta, George and Donald.
Does anyone know if any of the Children have descendants in the area? Thanks. Comment left on 18 October 2008 at 18:05 by Eric Simpson
Does anyone know if any of the Children have descendants in the area? Thanks. Comment left on 18 October 2008 at 18:05 by Eric Simpson
Quite a number of the people commenting seem to be Jan Duncan fans. There is a Live Journal Community about Jane Duncan and her books. It can be found at:
community.livejournal.com/my_friend_jane/
It is free and open to anyone to join who wants to celebrate Jane Duncan’s novels. If you have any trouble accessing it just email me and I'll try to help. Comment left on 07 February 2009 at 17:06 by FA Watson
community.livejournal.com/my_friend_jane/
It is free and open to anyone to join who wants to celebrate Jane Duncan’s novels. If you have any trouble accessing it just email me and I'll try to help. Comment left on 07 February 2009 at 17:06 by FA Watson
Thank you Florence I was very interested to read your discussions.I only own My friend My Father and Letter from Reachfar although I have read all the rest in the past.
Comment left on 08 February 2009 at 18:50 by Elizabeth Lloyd
Hi - my father has told me that relations of mine way, way back were from Jemimaville. Apparently they were cartographers who went off to Canada in the Gold Rush. My great-grandad was called John Ross (his parents were John Ross & Catherine Munro) and he married Helen McStephen in 1892. It was only whilst showing my dad photos of my trip to Inverness (and my drive through Jemimaville) that he mentioned all this. Any information on my family would be welcome! Thanks in advance.
Comment left on 04 July 2009 at 23:19 by Carol Ross
We are about to start a book discussion about Jane Duncan's novels on the 'My Friend Jane' community. It starts next Monday (13 July 2009), and this discussion will focus on various 'Reachfar' based characters. Anyone who wants to join in is welcome.
Comment left on 06 July 2009 at 21:31 by FA Watson
Nowhere in any of Jane Duncan's bios has it said of what she died. I have been reading (and rereading) her books since I first read Miss Boyds in 1962, at age 10.
Comment left on 30 August 2009 at 02:40 by Ginny
I have been told that she died of a heart attack.
Comment left on 30 August 2009 at 16:28 by Jan Robey
I don't know if the book discusson got off the ground in July. If it did is it on a separate web site?
I did not know Jane Duncan had died until quite a while after her death. I presume My Friends George & Tom and Letter to Reachfar were her last books?
I did find a reprint of her children's books with a new artist. I was able to buy two of these for my grandchildren in Aberfeldy in 2007.
I am still looking for several other titles as they are now being sithdrawn from our Library system here. Comment left on 30 August 2009 at 17:10 by I.Hyland Winnipeg
I did not know Jane Duncan had died until quite a while after her death. I presume My Friends George & Tom and Letter to Reachfar were her last books?
I did find a reprint of her children's books with a new artist. I was able to buy two of these for my grandchildren in Aberfeldy in 2007.
I am still looking for several other titles as they are now being sithdrawn from our Library system here. Comment left on 30 August 2009 at 17:10 by I.Hyland Winnipeg
The JD book discussion has been done; relatively few people participated but you can see all the comments on the livejournal community.
Even though the discussion 'ended' in early August, as a moderator, I still monitor the community page and will reply to any comments you post. It is completely free to join livejournal (you do not need to join to look, just to comment).
Your best bet to find Jane Duncan books is alibris books - a web-based secondhand 'bookstore'. Put alibris into google and it will find it for you. They sell all over the globe.
Comment left on 31 August 2009 at 12:35 by Anon
Even though the discussion 'ended' in early August, as a moderator, I still monitor the community page and will reply to any comments you post. It is completely free to join livejournal (you do not need to join to look, just to comment).
Your best bet to find Jane Duncan books is alibris books - a web-based secondhand 'bookstore'. Put alibris into google and it will find it for you. They sell all over the globe.
Comment left on 31 August 2009 at 12:35 by Anon
Hi it has been a while since I had a look on this site, so missed the discussion group. The interest is still growing, it is a pity my friends have not read Jane's books, but I will not lend them!
My mother lent "My friends The Miss Boyds" never to be seen again. My complete collection remains intact in Melbourne Australia. I have told my children that the books are valuable and will be part of my legacy! Comment left on 24 September 2009 at 03:38 by Elise Hall
My mother lent "My friends The Miss Boyds" never to be seen again. My complete collection remains intact in Melbourne Australia. I have told my children that the books are valuable and will be part of my legacy! Comment left on 24 September 2009 at 03:38 by Elise Hall
An excellent legacy indeed! Please check back to the Jane Duncan livejournal community in a month or so, as we have further plans. The discussion group is still pretty small but we are not giving up!
Comment left on 24 September 2009 at 16:55 by FA Watson
Tried to get My friend Sashie and into 3 healthy figures...am collecting-a real thrill to find -have 13 friends. Bne Oz.
Comment left on 20 April 2010 at 11:50 by Joan Moss
Hi - Visited Cromarty yesterday to visit the newly opened Jane Duncan exhibition at the Courthouse. Had tears in my eyes as I read the wall panels and could identify the books that the excerpts were taken from. I started collecting the My Friend books many years ago and have hardbacks of the complete series. Glad I'm not still searching as the prices have gone quite astronomical! Millbrace publishing I see are reprinting The Miss Boyds to be launched in June - always hoped that the books could be made into a TV series as they would lend themselves well to Sunday night drama. Enjoying re-reading the books in this the centenary year. Going to do a walking tour of the Black Isle and once and for all work out which were the houses Jane Duncan inhabited - any help with this much appreciated.
Comment left on 04 May 2010 at 19:45 by June Young
Hi June
She lived in Rose Cottage on the main road in Jemimaville and then moved down in front of that cottage nearer to the seashore to the Old Store which she renovated and renamed Reachfar.
Jan Comment left on 04 May 2010 at 20:43 by Jan Robey
She lived in Rose Cottage on the main road in Jemimaville and then moved down in front of that cottage nearer to the seashore to the Old Store which she renovated and renamed Reachfar.
Jan Comment left on 04 May 2010 at 20:43 by Jan Robey
I'm interested in the name 'Reachfar' for Jane's house at the back of the village as for the time I grew up in there from 1973 onwards we didn't call it that. I know that it changed hands a few times and a new owner renamed it Reachfar late on, until then it was always 'The Store' to us. I certainly in my teenage years know it as the Store as the Fairs had the property as I visited a pal from school in the house. I know Jane Duncan died when I was very young, my Father knew her and did deal with her for a property swap in the village. Does anyone know of the name change then? I can't recall what Dad told me of such a thing yet I think he told me there was an ice store located in front of the house originally and it was due to that it was named The Store (long since gone). Reachfar was a place in one of the books, fictional, and the house wasn't called that by Jane? Any ideas?
Comment left on 04 May 2010 at 22:42 by Jane M Scott
There is a Jane Duncan Appreciation Page on Facebook.
Comment left on 05 May 2010 at 03:52 by Margaret Tong
Sorry about any confusion I may have caused with the name of Reachfar. When I visited the house last its name was Reachfar but on the back gate there was a sign which read, The Store. Maybe the present owners renamed it?
Comment left on 05 May 2010 at 15:35 by Jan Robey
Thanks Jan and Jane - this will help when I visit Jemimaville next. If the name changed later on after she died it suggests that a fan or someone with interest in the history of the house named it Reachfar as an homage! I found out a lot more about the Colony (the fictitious Reachfar) at the exhibition in Cromarty - it used to be a collection of small crofts populated by many families who shared resources - By the time Jane knew it, her family had taken over the whole piece of land and a new house was built - I plan to try and find it this summer but will need an ordnance survey map I think.
Margaret - I am struggling to find the Jane Duncan page on Facebook - any clues on how to find it as I am quite new to FB and sometimes come unstuck! Comment left on 05 May 2010 at 17:10 by June Young
Margaret - I am struggling to find the Jane Duncan page on Facebook - any clues on how to find it as I am quite new to FB and sometimes come unstuck! Comment left on 05 May 2010 at 17:10 by June Young
The present owners are great fans of Jane Duncan and renamed the house "Reachfar" in appreciation of her stories, however they also retained the original "Old Store" part of the name too. Therefore the full postal address is still "Reachfar, Old Store, Jemimaville".
Comment left on 05 May 2010 at 19:22 by Jenny
Hi June
Last time I visited Jemimaville, I visited the Store or Reachfar and met the present owners. They are indeed fans of Jane Duncan and I can assure you of a warm welcome if you visit them.
Jan Comment left on 06 May 2010 at 10:43 by Jan Robey
Last time I visited Jemimaville, I visited the Store or Reachfar and met the present owners. They are indeed fans of Jane Duncan and I can assure you of a warm welcome if you visit them.
Jan Comment left on 06 May 2010 at 10:43 by Jan Robey
June, if you're logged in on FB you should see the search field in the blue top bar. Type "jane duncan", hit Enter and you're there. If you click on the magnifying glass instead of hitting Enter, you'll land on a page listing several Jane Ducans.
Comment left on 06 May 2010 at 17:06 by Paul Vinkenoog
Thanks everyone for your help - visited Jemimaville yesterday and really enjoyed wandering off the main road down to the shore. Saw Rose Cottage and The Old Store/Reachfar - had a nice chat with the owner. Also found the Facebook page so lets hope lots of people join in this centenary year. We need to get a TV series commissioned!
Comment left on 09 May 2010 at 20:43 by June Young
Hi folks - just to let you know that we've put up details of some Jane Duncan events on the Kirkmichael Trust website at www.kirkmichael.info including the Trust's guided tours to Jemimaville on 25th June and the Colony on 26th June - Jim Mackay, Chair Kirkmichael Trust. Hope to see some of you there!
Comment left on 10 June 2010 at 18:05 by Jim Mackay
Did you know that cromarty had a rival to mcgonagall.
John Mcbean gave me a copy of his small book of poems in 1965, here is his short poem to Jane Duncan's shop and tearoom.
entitlied the Friendly shop.
Take a treasure trail to Cromarty
An ancient town beside the sea
There is a tearoom by the bus stop
Please give a call at the friendly shop
A relic of an oldtime store
you know it by the double door
please do buy our cups of coffee
and don't forget the bags of toffee
those of you who have no cares
just browse around among the wares
of pottery dwawings oils and etchings
of glassware ironworks and sketchings
so buy a book and meet the author
to sign her name it is no bother.
Not exactly poet laureat stuff but Jock has described it perfectly as I remember it Comment left on 11 June 2010 at 19:07 by Ian Jack
John Mcbean gave me a copy of his small book of poems in 1965, here is his short poem to Jane Duncan's shop and tearoom.
entitlied the Friendly shop.
Take a treasure trail to Cromarty
An ancient town beside the sea
There is a tearoom by the bus stop
Please give a call at the friendly shop
A relic of an oldtime store
you know it by the double door
please do buy our cups of coffee
and don't forget the bags of toffee
those of you who have no cares
just browse around among the wares
of pottery dwawings oils and etchings
of glassware ironworks and sketchings
so buy a book and meet the author
to sign her name it is no bother.
Not exactly poet laureat stuff but Jock has described it perfectly as I remember it Comment left on 11 June 2010 at 19:07 by Ian Jack
I am so glad there are still people out there enjoying Jane Duncan's books. I discovered them in the 1970's while living in Canada. My sister, unbeknownst to me, was enjoying them in Scotland. When I found she had died, I cried, because that meant no nore books! A television series would be wonderful (or could be if well done) and would start a whole new interest in her work, leading to the books being available again. I borrowed the books from my local public library and have only a few of my own. I am jealous of "full set owners"! Now that I live in Scotland again, one day maybe I will get to visit Jemimaville...
Comment left on 29 March 2011 at 13:53 by Marilyn Young
I live in Queensland Australia and will be in Jemimaville 21st June 2011 as my husband's ancestors come from Front Street, John McGregor or MacGrioghair.
Comment left on 23 April 2011 at 03:39 by Anne Ramage
Have just stumbled on these comments today whilst browsing to buy yet more books written by this "wonderful" (she wouldn't like this description) author and, yes they have become very expensive. Great to see that more people than myself feel that all the books can be read and continually re-read. Now approaching 66 myself I wish to thank her existing family and "friends" on this site for many, many hours of very happy reading. There is a discussion site at Cromarty (the Colony) also very encouraging. Tragic that so much popularity is discovered so often when it seems too late. Still she did come over as a person very content with her lot.
Comment left on 30 May 2011 at 19:06 by Marie Knotts
Comment left on 30 May 2011 at 19:06 by Marie Knotts
This is just to let everyone know that Millrace is bringing out a new edition of 'My Friend Monica' later this month. It's in the same format as the new edition of 'My Friends the Miss Boyds', which we published last summer.
Comment left on 07 June 2011 at 21:52 by Viv Cripps
How wpnderful to see a picture of Jemimaville around the time my Father was Born there (James Bremner 12/04/1920). The house he was born in (I am told) was the first one next to the Church on the water front. His Father was James Bremner and Mother Margaret Bremner (M.S. Williamson)
Comment left on 18 July 2011 at 10:07 by James A Bremner
I work at the Fish Hoek Library in Fish Hoek, Cape Town, South Africa. We have the whole collection of her books and they are very precious to us. I read them every year and always find some hidden gem that I missed. I am in the process of collecting them for my own pleasure.
Comment left on 05 June 2012 at 18:11 by Jean Patterson
I first read one of Jane Duncan's My Friends books in 1971, and read every one in the series, at least once. I began to collect them in 1976 through an out of print search service until I had found every one - it took me 10 years. I re-read these books often and find something new every time. I am glad to see that so many remember and appreciate her. She is a brilliant story-teller whose dream to write is an inspiration. Thanks for your memories, and directions and insights.
Comment left on 24 October 2012 at 22:45 by Anonymous
I first read the Miss Boyds somewhere in the 1960's...not until I stumbled upon My Friends from Cairnton several years later did I realize there was this treasure of a series! Until I finally became proficient enough on the computer to look her up, I had no idea that she had passed on...all this is fascinating to me, and really it does not seem that she is gone...she lives through her books; her "bit of heaven."
Comment left on 23 January 2013 at 19:17 by Nancy Hilber
I have been reading 'My friends" series of books since 1974. I love the relationships between the members of her family, the dialogue and the whole perspective on life she presents. These are my go-to books when life is difficult. I now have all the books, but not all in hardback. I love them and am sorry I never got a chance to tell her how much they mean to me.
Comment left on 24 May 2013 at 01:06 by Bonnie Parsons Smith
I began reading the "My Friends" books many years ago and periodically reread them. My husband and I visited Jemimavilla, hoping to be able to meet Jane Duncan, but she had recently died. We took time exploring the Black Isle, stopping once because it sounded like something was wrong with our car. As soon as we stopped, we realized it was the sound of hundreds of birds singing. What a wonderful place. Like Bonnie (above), I am sorry I didn't get a chance to tell Jane how much her books have meant to me.
Comment left on 09 June 2013 at 23:38 by Marilyn Cram-Donahue
I am hoping somebody would be able to give me instructions on how to get to the old house.
Comment left on 11 November 2013 at 19:58 by Richard Jessop
This is a wonderful picture - like a page out of one of Jane Duncan's books.
Comment left on 28 November 2013 at 20:24 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
I first read (and loved) most of the 'My Friends' in the 1960s and managed to meet Jane Duncan in 1975 when holidaying on the Black Isle; she signed my copy of 'Letter from Reachfar.' I started reading them again in 2010 onwards and wondered if a publisher could be persuaded to re-print some of them so I was thrilled when I discovered that Millrace were re-printing the Miss Boyds and then Monica, but very disappointed when the response wasn't enough to print more. There seem to be quite a lot of fans like me out there, judging by this website. I bought a few of her books (mainly old library copies) in the 1960s and have recently bought the rest, having to bite the bullet of cost for George and Tom! I look forward to re-reading it. Bet wishes to all the fans out there.
Comment left on 21 October 2014 at 12:27 by Carol Fry
Just found this lovely website. I read the Friends books over 30 years ago, getting them in the public library. On a recent holiday in Cromarty aka Achraggan, and talking to Annie in The Emporium who was reading the books, I am rediscovering these truly beautiful books. After visiting Cromarty the books have an added dimension for me . I have just finished The Miss Boyds and loved it. I have bought the first four and 2 more later books from the Internet. Anyone who loves Scotland, especially the Highlands cannot fail to enjoy The Friends. Jane Duncan makes you feel as if she is personally telling you the stories.
Comment left on 26 July 2015 at 16:11 by Ann Huckin
Comment left on 26 July 2015 at 16:11 by Ann Huckin
I had a bit of a dream come true for me - was able to visit Cromarty and drive up to where the 'Colony' aka Reachfar once was. I talked to a very nice lady in a bookstore there who said she knew Jane Duncan (Elizabeth Cameron) as an older lady and that she was very feisty! I was a wonderful day.
Comment left on 03 August 2015 at 04:02 by Bonnie Parsons Smith
Wonderful picture -- and how rewarding to see so many recent comments. Yes, I do think the books would make a good TV series. I reread them periodically and enjoy them even more than the first time.
Comment left on 04 August 2015 at 23:14 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
I'm letting people know of the death of Mary Tomlinson Harrison nee Mackay on 17/6/15 who was brought up in Jemimaville and contributed to this site. She had some Jane Duncan books which I'm now offering to a collector.
Comment left on 09 August 2015 at 12:55 by Judith Tomlinson Harrison
I'm very sorry to hear that. I followed her contributions on this page. My sincere condolences to all who knew and loved her. I hope she lived long and died peacefully.
Comment left on 10 August 2015 at 20:46 by Paul Vinkenoog
I am sorry to hear of her death....I guess you could say I'm a collector...
Comment left on 11 August 2015 at 19:14 by Nancy hilber
She also had a collection of Scots magazines spanning 21 years from 1984. They are all in binders right up to when they changed the size of the magazine. I would be happy to parcel these up to go by courier for a donation and the cost of carriage by courier.
Comment left on 11 August 2015 at 20:38 by Judith Tomlinson Harrison
Comment left on 11 August 2015 at 20:38 by Judith Tomlinson Harrison
Judith - are you also asking for a donation for the books as well?
Are you selling both the books and magazines?
Or is it the case that you just want the buyer to pay for the postage?
Are the books first editions? Comment left on 21 August 2015 at 05:16 by Margaret Tong
Are you selling both the books and magazines?
Or is it the case that you just want the buyer to pay for the postage?
Are the books first editions? Comment left on 21 August 2015 at 05:16 by Margaret Tong
All Jane Duncan's "My Friend" books are available as e-books from Amazon Kindle, with the exception of Martha's Aunt, for some reason. I thought all my Christmases and birthdays had come at once! I have loved her books for thirty years. I will have to steel myself to read My Father as my dad was alive when I first read it and I lent it to him afterwards. He agreed that Janet's love for her father was very like mine for him. He has since died and I still miss him. My mother, on the other hand, was very like Jean!
Comment left on 24 September 2015 at 23:24 by Jill Grant
I paid a visit to Cromarty yesterday and fell in love with this place. My middle name is Forsyth and was very interested in William Forsyth and Forsyth House. On looking at the map, I noticed Jemimaville nearby but was short of time to visit.
My aunt was Jemima Forsyth and I was curious to know if there was a connection, but no. Anyway when I got home to Paisley today I visited this site and knew nothing about the Jane Duncan books.
So I will now visit Amazon and start my Winter reading. It was wonderful reading all your comments. I will definitely revisit this area. Comment left on 16 October 2015 at 18:31 by May F. Hutton
My aunt was Jemima Forsyth and I was curious to know if there was a connection, but no. Anyway when I got home to Paisley today I visited this site and knew nothing about the Jane Duncan books.
So I will now visit Amazon and start my Winter reading. It was wonderful reading all your comments. I will definitely revisit this area. Comment left on 16 October 2015 at 18:31 by May F. Hutton
You're in for a real treat May.
Comment left on 17 October 2015 at 06:31 by Jan
I just completed my set of "My Friends" books with a gift from a friend of "My Friend the Swallow". Previously I had complained to her that the only copy I could track down on the Internet would have cost $90! The copy she sent appears to have been bootlegged; it's Xeroxed, in some places poorly, and one page is missing. What I don't have are any of the "Jean" books which Jane Duncan wrote as "Janet Sandison", nor do I have any of the "Camerons" books. I envy those of you who have been to Jemimaville and even to The Colony.
Comment left on 26 January 2016 at 19:20 by Ruth Pinkus
Ruth I am so lucky to have 'proper' copies of all the Jean books and all the Camerons (and of course all the Friends). I have also visited Jemimaville and driven up to the Colony. I did not have access to this thread at the time though so could not find Jane's home in Jemimaville, leaving me with an excellent reason to go back one day. I hope you can find the rest of the books at an affordable price one day. Happy reading!
Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 10:10 by Penny
Ruth - this may help? It is a moderately priced copy of 'Swallow'
www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/1447298039/ref=sr_1_1_twi_pap_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1453889501&sr=8-1&keywords=my+friend+the+swallow Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 10:14 by Penny
www.amazon.co.uk/gp/offer-listing/1447298039/ref=sr_1_1_twi_pap_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1453889501&sr=8-1&keywords=my+friend+the+swallow Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 10:14 by Penny
If anyone is interested the magazines are still available. The Jane Duncan books that I have are
Hardback
My Friends The Misses Kindness
My Friend my Father
softback
My Friend from Cairnton
My Friend Flora
My Friend Monica
They have all been well used and some are ex library books Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 12:52 by Judith Tomlinson Harrison
Hardback
My Friends The Misses Kindness
My Friend my Father
softback
My Friend from Cairnton
My Friend Flora
My Friend Monica
They have all been well used and some are ex library books Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 12:52 by Judith Tomlinson Harrison
The 'Jean' books, as far as I know, are out of print (and never were as popular as the 'Friends' novels), so generally hard to find. However for secondhand books I always recommend you try Alibris. I just did a quick search on the Alibris website (www.alibris.co.uk or www.alibris.com) under the author's name and came up with three of the books being currently available (books 1, 2 and 4 in the series). The current prices listed do not make them attractive unless you really really want them, but in my experience prices do fluctuate and it can be worth checking back periodically until you see a copy at a price you want.
Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 14:22 by FA Watson
Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 14:22 by FA Watson
I have a minor question.....in the books and in some of the history here passing comments have been made about "the distillery." I assume it is a whiskey distillery and am curious as to what their brand is.
Comment left on 27 January 2016 at 23:13 by Nancy Hilber
I ordered a copy of "A Guide to Jemimaville and the Colony" by Jim Mackay. Lovely illustrations, some old photos and several shots of the buildings around 2010. Also ordinance maps for area. ISMB 978-0-9562102-1-0. I found a copy from waterstones.com.
Comment left on 01 February 2016 at 00:59 by Rita Rippetoe
Jill Grant--thanks for the information about the "Friends" books being available on Amazon Kindle. I have a number of the books, but this will enable me to fill in the gaps. I am missing Sandy and Madame Zora only two books --but a loss nonetheless.
Comment left on 01 February 2016 at 03:55 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
I do have the full set (four) of the Jean books which I bought new in the 1960's and recently re-read, enjoying them just as much if not more, being older and hopefully wiser.
Comment left on 01 February 2016 at 17:33 by Carol Fry
Jim is with the Kirkmichael Trust which is seeking to restore the ancient buildings at Kirkmichael kirkyard where Jane Duncan is buried and you can get copies of "A Guide to Jemimaville and the Colony" direct from the Trust's website www.kirkmichael.info - we are intending to develop the Jane Duncan pages on this as part of the project development later this year.
Comment left on 02 February 2016 at 17:52 by Alastair Morton
Does anyone know whether The Colony, the croft renamed Reachfar in Jane Duncan's books, had water piped from the well to the kitchen or scullery? I'm writing about her books and felt that the criticism of Flora Bedamned's father for not running a pipe to his home implied that Reachfar did have one, but it would be nice to be sure. Thanks for any information.
Comment left on 14 May 2016 at 23:29 by Rita Rippetoe
Does anyone know the name of the sugar plantation in the Caribbean where Jane and Sandy live?
Comment left on 27 June 2016 at 06:23 by Jeanie Patterson
Jeannie Patterson--the Clappertons lived on Hampden Estates.
Comment left on 07 February 2017 at 01:39 by Rita Rippetoe
For all the Jane Duncan fans reading this site; my book _Reappraising Jane Duncan: Sexuality, Race and Colonialism in the My Friends Series_ is now available at www.mcfarlandpub.com. In addition to my analysis of the themes listed in the title it contains a summary of each of the My Friends books, a list of major characters and their relations to one another, a list of the locales and a vocabulary of Scottish terms. Also a works cited and index.
Comment left on 08 March 2017 at 19:38 by Rita Rippetoe
Rita, Thank you so much. I have just seen your comment. I have been searching maps of the area from references in the books - especially the Great Houses of Jamaica. Are there are photographs of Guinea Corner where she lived?
Comment left on 17 April 2017 at 21:19 by Jeanie Patterson
Comment left on 17 April 2017 at 21:19 by Jeanie Patterson
My first comment on this site in 2004 has generated so much interest. I have recently read all Jane Duncan's books again, and continue to enjoy them. Would love to revisit Reachfar, maybe next year. Jan Robey and I are friends on Facebook due to our mutual interest. A wide field! Scotland to Australia.
Comment left on 11 May 2017 at 14:15 by Elise Hall
Industrial Engineering Drafting Co. in Brooklyn New York published a map of the Jamaica Sugar Mills and Refineries, dated 1952. I found a copy in the University of California, Davis library. I imagine other reference libraries might have it. Hampden Estates is inland, southeast of Montego Bay, and southwest of Falmouth. I suspect that Jane Duncan deliberately mixed the descriptions of Great Houses--so the house described as Guinea Corner might actually be on the other side of the island in a place she visited, and so forth. I think she was quite anxious not to offend the people that she had lived and worked among for so many years and, as most fiction writers do, mixed and matched characteristics and locations to conceal identities. For instance, I have tried to pinpoint the Peaks Hotel with the aid of a 1962 Fodor's Guide. But there are descriptions of several establishments with some resemblance, but none exact. Hampden Estates has a web page--if you click through to the larger map you can find a slide show of photos of the great house, the fields and the refinery.
Comment left on 16 May 2017 at 19:27 by Rita Rippetoe
I visited the Black Isle at the start of this month with my partner Matt and we managed to make our way to the Colony as well as seeing the Old Store in Jemimaville and the family plot in the graveyard in Cromarty. Matt put some b+w photos on Instagram August 1st-6th, search hashtags #reachfar or #janeduncan or for user glass_eyed_matt and scroll down to dates.
Comment left on 25 August 2017 at 14:58 by Lynn
Oh what a lovely large number of Jane Duncan enthusiastis here. I am one Cousin Emmie short of a complete My Friends set, have all the Jeans, would like to be able to afford the Camerons, and one day hope to visit your lovely part of the world. I have also just ordered your book, Rita, and look forward to it arriving.
Gareth, I am much tempted to email you and ask whatever did become of the Hungry Generation, but in case you get asked that several times a week, I'll await the book (or update here?)
One thing mentioned here a decade ago was that there was a Jane Duncan Facebook page. I can't find it. Does anyone have a link? Comment left on 06 September 2018 at 15:04 by Katie Julian
Gareth, I am much tempted to email you and ask whatever did become of the Hungry Generation, but in case you get asked that several times a week, I'll await the book (or update here?)
One thing mentioned here a decade ago was that there was a Jane Duncan Facebook page. I can't find it. Does anyone have a link? Comment left on 06 September 2018 at 15:04 by Katie Julian
Katie Julian - there used to be an unofficial JD Facebook page but I think it has disappeared. There was nothing on it though. Hope this helps
Comment left on 16 September 2018 at 12:41 by Penny Harrison
Comment left on 16 September 2018 at 12:41 by Penny Harrison
Katie, that page seems to have disappeared. I was 'friends' with it, but I don't think there was much activity.
Of course you could create a new one, or a Facebook group. Comment left on 16 September 2018 at 13:07 by Paul Vinkenoog
Of course you could create a new one, or a Facebook group. Comment left on 16 September 2018 at 13:07 by Paul Vinkenoog
Hallo Rita. Thank you for your reply. I spent hours trawling through the Hampden estates webpage a while ago. I understand her reluctance to offend. But her books make it so real that I want to see every place she wrote about.
Comment left on 16 September 2018 at 18:41 by Jeanie Patterson
Katie--Thanks for ordering my book--it was a labor of love, but sales are nice too. I wish I could visit Scotland and see the areas described for myself.
Comment left on 16 September 2018 at 20:12 by Rita E Rippetoe
Just spotted a new comment on this thread. As a great fan of the Jane Duncan "My Friend" novels, and as the proud owner of the complete series, I have decided to set up a blog in her honour. Although I was born 50 years later, our lives have followed very similar paths and I plan to post words and pictures about life in the North of Scotland, from both our perspectives. I live very near the fictional (but real!) Reachfar and Poyntdale so there should be much of interest to add. Would be happy to have followers and guest contributions. I can't add the link here as it won't allow me but if you google search for "Homage to Reachfar on Wordpress" you should find it.
Thanks in anticipation.
Comment left on 17 September 2018 at 10:20 by Alyson MacAndrew
Thanks in anticipation.
Comment left on 17 September 2018 at 10:20 by Alyson MacAndrew
Lovely to see so many comments from Jane Duncan fans. I rented out her cottage in Jemimaville and visited the tea shop in Cromarty way back in the mid 1990’s. Elise and I are still friends on Facebook.
Comment left on 18 September 2018 at 17:27 by Jan Robey
Oh this is excellent. I have got your insightful and intriguing book Rita (everyone, read Rita's book) and am now following your site, Alyson (everyone, follow Alyson's site - homagetoreachfar.wordpress.com/). Additionally there's the initially promising but currently somewhat moribund Live Journal site 'My Friend Jane'(my-friend-jane.livejournal.com/34228.html) which has some interesting commentary from a few years back.
Paul - on starting a Facebook group. My thoughts being that I really want less social media in my life, and adminning often is time-consuming. I work as a textbook writer and editor and screens consume most of my time already. Additionally I live and work in Burma with erratic internet access.
I would be happy to assist in the adminning, but would really prefer it not to not be my ongoing responsibility. I am sure Her Old Self would have opinions about shirking, were she born 90 years later. Comment left on 19 September 2018 at 04:12 by Katie Julian
Paul - on starting a Facebook group. My thoughts being that I really want less social media in my life, and adminning often is time-consuming. I work as a textbook writer and editor and screens consume most of my time already. Additionally I live and work in Burma with erratic internet access.
I would be happy to assist in the adminning, but would really prefer it not to not be my ongoing responsibility. I am sure Her Old Self would have opinions about shirking, were she born 90 years later. Comment left on 19 September 2018 at 04:12 by Katie Julian
How lovely to have all this flurry of activity after a bit of a lull. Amazing that there are still so many fans of the books out there. Thanks so much Katie for visiting the new site (explains all the views in my stats from Myanmar!) - I have just started a course at college where we aim to celebrate the culture and heritage of Scotland so thought I could use the site for my own work and to bring Jane's words back to life for, hopefully, a new generation. I have by the way met with Jane/Eliabeth's family in the past and I mooted the idea of doing something like this with them back then and they were happy with it - Shouldn't be any copyright issues and I'm not earning any money from the site so fair usage and all that.
Lovely that your comment popped up on this thread just as I was embarking on this project - Good karma I think.
I would welcome any contributions from fans of Jane Duncan to the blog - Happy to do the admin. Comment left on 20 September 2018 at 12:05 by Alyson MacAndrew
Lovely that your comment popped up on this thread just as I was embarking on this project - Good karma I think.
I would welcome any contributions from fans of Jane Duncan to the blog - Happy to do the admin. Comment left on 20 September 2018 at 12:05 by Alyson MacAndrew
"currently somewhat moribund Live Journal site 'My Friend Jane'"
Very moribund I would say - and as the 'maintainer' of the site I should know! Unfortunately it never attracted enough members to keep the discussions going. And as I do not like what has happened with LJ in the last few years I, like mny others, have fled to dreamwidth so Ithink no one really looks at that community now.
If you know anyone still on LJ who would like to take it over or who has ideas to revitalise they are more than welcome to. Comment left on 22 September 2018 at 00:03 by Florence Watson
Very moribund I would say - and as the 'maintainer' of the site I should know! Unfortunately it never attracted enough members to keep the discussions going. And as I do not like what has happened with LJ in the last few years I, like mny others, have fled to dreamwidth so Ithink no one really looks at that community now.
If you know anyone still on LJ who would like to take it over or who has ideas to revitalise they are more than welcome to. Comment left on 22 September 2018 at 00:03 by Florence Watson
I've just come across this picture again and had a closer look at the cottage with the lady standing at the gate. This is the home where my late wife Mary Mackay grew up. It states the photo is 1920 which means that the lady must be Catherine Gray, my late wife's grandmother.
Comment left on 01 September 2020 by Judith Tomlinson Harrison
I'm so happy to see there is still an interest in Jane Duncan's books. I visited the area in 1990. I wish someone would do a TV series on the books . . . and do it well. Her books have meant so much to so many!
Comment left on 16 October 2020 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
I'll second that, about making a film of a book, or a series. I read all her books in the 60s and 70s then re-read recently and loved them just as much. I have every one - some bought then and some more recently from eBay!
Comment left on 19 October 2020 by Carol Fry
Comment left on 19 October 2020 by Carol Fry
Glad to meet fellow collectors of Jane Duncan’s books. I rented her cottage out in 1990 or thereabouts just to feel a closer link with who she was.
Comment left on 20 October 2020 by Jan
I met with the family a good few years ago and discovered they had been in talks about a television series. They did however feel that too many locals are still connected to the people who provided inspiration for the characters in the books, and didn't want to cause upset when scriptwriters veer from the original stories. Think it would have been a great Sunday Night drama though.
Comment left on 20 October 2020 by Alyson MacAndrew
Carol and Alyson, it is good to hear from you. At least there are three of us who would be fans of a TV series! I should think scriptwriters could work around any problems with characters. They do it all the time!
Comment left on 20 October 2020 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
I wonder what happened to the proposed biography. I was told that the family was working with a biographer, but that was back in 2010 or earlier and I haven't seen one come out.
Comment left on 20 October 2020 by Rita Rippetoe
I would have thought most of the characters would have welcomed the tribute to Jane Duncan.
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 21 October 2020 by Elise Hall
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 21 October 2020 by Elise Hall
Thanks for asking, My Friend Elise. I’m doing well - living my life as well as abiding by the rules. Am doing a spot of volunteering - speaking English to Spaniards in return for a week in a 4* hotel full board! Take care, Jan
Comment left on 22 October 2020 by Jan
Can anyone assist with a photo of the old shop, from when Kathy & Jimmy Ferguson owned it? I'm struggling to know where to look, so any advice would be much appreciated.
Comment left on 22 October 2020 by Lorna Burns
I would have thought most of the characters would have welcomed the tribute to Jane Duncan.
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 23 October 2020 by Elise Hall
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 23 October 2020 by Elise Hall
Make that 4 fans who would like to see a series based on Jane Duncan’s books . I would love to see that happen .
Comment left on 24 October 2020 by Elizabeth Lloyd
Make that 4 fans who would like to see a series based on Jane Duncan’s books . I would love to see that happen .
Comment left on 25 October 2020 by Elizabeth Lloyd
I will add my name to the list of those wanting to see a series based on My Friends, should any TV production companies be reading through this comment thread.
I am also particularly enjoying the periodic revival of discussion on this thread, but suspect a lot of fans might not know to look here. How much interest might there be on having a Jane Duncan Facebook page? Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Katie Julian
I am also particularly enjoying the periodic revival of discussion on this thread, but suspect a lot of fans might not know to look here. How much interest might there be on having a Jane Duncan Facebook page? Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Katie Julian
I would have thought most of the characters would have welcomed the tribute to Jane Duncan.
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Elise Hall
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Elise Hall
I will add my name to the list of those wanting to see a series based on My Friends, should any TV production companies be reading through this comment thread.
I am also particularly enjoying the periodic revival of discussion on this thread, but suspect a lot of fans might not know to look here. How much interest might there be on having a Jane Duncan Facebook page? Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Katie Julian
I am also particularly enjoying the periodic revival of discussion on this thread, but suspect a lot of fans might not know to look here. How much interest might there be on having a Jane Duncan Facebook page? Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Katie Julian
I would have thought most of the characters would have welcomed the tribute to Jane Duncan.
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Elise Hall
I started this in 2004, just browsing and found the photo and we are still going.
Hi Jan hope you are well and safe x Comment left on 26 October 2020 by Elise Hall
Frankly, I'm always nervous when my favourite books get the TV treatment, and the complex timelines of the series would make it quite difficult to adapt - so I'm not so sure ...
Comment left on 30 October 2020 by Lynn
Lynn, I understand your feelings, but a number of TV adaptions have been done quite successfully, even with multiple timelines. I think it's worth a try.
Comment left on 31 October 2020 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
Comment left on 31 October 2020 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
:-) Good point, Marilyn! We are in a kind of golden age for TV at the moment.
I should also admit that the making of a series could have positive benefits in raising the profile of the books, maybe bringing more of them back into print, and potentially that of the region as well, against which the possibility of me personally being disappointed is pretty unimportant! Comment left on 31 October 2020 by Lynn
I should also admit that the making of a series could have positive benefits in raising the profile of the books, maybe bringing more of them back into print, and potentially that of the region as well, against which the possibility of me personally being disappointed is pretty unimportant! Comment left on 31 October 2020 by Lynn
The main obstacle I would see to any adaptation that included Duncan's Jamaica years would be the race issue. Duncan was pretty progressive for her time--writing of interracial marriage sympathetically for instance, but the old colonial hands like Madame and her son would have to be handled very skillfully to be accepted by a contemporary audience.
Comment left on 01 November 2020 by Rita Rippetoe
Hi - Impressed to see so many people keen on having the books made into a TV drama although the timeline would make it quite difficult, and the social mores of the day. As I said above however, it's all down to getting agreement from her nephews and niece and they were not keen, as the stories would have to be heavily adapted and would probably veer too far away from the originals which might cause upset for those still around.
Just a reminder that I set up a blog called 'An Homage to Jane Duncan' a couple of years ago which I hoped could become an interactive space for fans. I haven't been that active on it for a while but if there was interest, I would be happy to host guest posts/pictures by fans of the books. Comment left on 02 November 2020 by Alyson MacAndrew
Just a reminder that I set up a blog called 'An Homage to Jane Duncan' a couple of years ago which I hoped could become an interactive space for fans. I haven't been that active on it for a while but if there was interest, I would be happy to host guest posts/pictures by fans of the books. Comment left on 02 November 2020 by Alyson MacAndrew
Rita, you are probably right. But I think it could be done. How I would love to see someone try!'
Marilyn Comment left on 03 November 2020 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
Marilyn Comment left on 03 November 2020 by Marilyn Cram Donahue
Have been a fan for decades.
I have all the friend series and the Jean books as well as her letter.
Almost an addict as these are read and re read.
Her understanding of human nature and the times she lived in are substantial indeed.
An amazing person and such a find. Comment left on 12 February 2023 at 11:19 by Joan Moss
I have all the friend series and the Jean books as well as her letter.
Almost an addict as these are read and re read.
Her understanding of human nature and the times she lived in are substantial indeed.
An amazing person and such a find. Comment left on 12 February 2023 at 11:19 by Joan Moss
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