Introduction

During the long 19th century, the production and export of cured herring from Scotland to the Continent developed into a thriving industry which had a dominant place in the market. Until now, historical accounts have focused on national aspects of the industry, but it would not have succeeded without a customer base and an extensive distribution network on the Continent. This website shows how commercial co-operation across national boundaries helped to slow the decline in the population of the Highlands of Scotland and contributed substantially to the feeding of Europe’s growing working classes.
The Schooner Elbe
The Schooner Elbe ready for loading – 1870s, Johnston Collection