Excerpt from Underground Gold Miners Museum’s January 2011 Newsletter

Reprinted with permission undergroundgold.org

James Swan Dies On Scotland Trip

(1948 newspaper clipping)

James Swan, an old and respected resident of Alleghany, died suddenly at the home of his sister, Mrs. Margaret Mosgrove, 70 Glenmarkie Terrace, Dundee, Scotland, February 18.

Swan, accompanied by his wife, left Alleghany last month for a visit to his former home in Scotland, where all but one of his six brothers and two sisters reside. He had not been home for 44 years and it was his ardent wish to make this trip and visit his family, and to see his birthplace. Most of his time had been spent in California, with the exception of three years in British Columbia. Mr. and Mrs. Swan made the trip by plane.

Swan was formerly employed by the Original Sixteen to One Mine here as specimen boss. He held this trusted position until his health failed about three years ago. He was a man of sterling qualities with a kind word for everyone, and was well-liked by all. His many friends will be saddened by his passing.

His devoted wife will leave Scotland for her home in Alleghany as soon as she can arrange passage. It will be a sad home coming. ~ End of 1948 newspaper clipping.

James Swan in Alleghany, 1940s

Only the most trusted employees are given the position of specimen boss. A specimen boss is the man who is called to an underground heading to oversee the sacking and transport of high-grade gold. Catherine Robertson, James’ great-niece in Scotland sent these photos with the newspaper clipping. She is looking for information on the Swans. If you happen to know anything or have any photos, please pass the information along so that we can forward it to her.

James Swan (right) sitting on the porch of the HL Johnson home where his wife, Mamie, operated a boarding house until her death in the 1960s.

Note to Mountain Messenger readers: next week will feature the unexpected response to the inquiry above.