The Postman

Malcolm Maclennan, Calum Iain na Clibhe, 38 Cliff, who delivered to Carishader, Miavaig, Cliff, Valtos and Kneep on his bicycle.  (His bicycle may be one outside the post office in 1911 here.)  He worked as a postman for 60 years, finally retiring in 1960 at the age of 77.  Calum Iain received a certificate from the postmaster general and a letter from the new head postmaster in Stornoway:

1st Dec 1960
Dear Mr Maclennan

I am indeed sorry to learn that through your present incapacity you feel that you are unable to continue duty and it is with the utmost regret that I accept your resignation as from 26th instant.

I have not had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know you but I see from the official records that you have been employed as a part time Postman, with very little time off for illness, since 1900. This is a wonderful record and one of which you must be very proud. On behalf of the Staff and myself at Stornoway I congratulate you and thank you for the many years of willing service you have given to the Post Office.

I hope that the trouble with your knee will clear up soon and that you will enjoy many more years in your well earned retirement.

Your sincerely
J Macdonald
Head Postmaster

Calum Iain was married to Ann Maciver, 12 Kneep, and they had two children.  He was given a bronze medal from the Royal Humane Society in 1910 for rescuing a boy from drowning on Traigh na Clibhe.  He was at home, heard the commotion and raced across the sand to save him.