I first found out that my father’s family line came from south-west Scotland when one of my father’s cousins put together a family tree in 1979. However, the cousin was only interested in seeing how large our extended family in Australia was, and did not do much research further back.
Years later I decided to research online, to see how far back in time I could go. I am descended from Bryce Robb, who hailed from Bridge of Dee (he had 12 acres just west of the village) and also ran a carting business based in Crocketford. His son John left Scotland in the 1850’s to search for gold in Victoria. After not having much success he eventually was a farm labourer in southern New South Wales and northern Victoria. As as far as I can ascertain he never returned to Scotland.
Early in 2017 I searched for Balmaghie Kirk on Google and found a newspaper article which stated that services at the Kirk had ended. This disappointed me somewhat as I had hoped to attend a service. However I did hope to at least get the opportunity to look inside.
Another internet search later in 2017 showed another newspaper article which stated that the Church of Scotland intended to apply to the Dumfries and Galloway Council to prepare to convert the kirk and hall to residences. This incensed me greatly, as I didn’t not wish to come halfway around the world to see the kirk only to stop short at the front gate because it was now someone’s house! I also find the idea of a house having a graveyard in it quite distasteful! So I started the online petition and emailed anyone I thought who could be of any assistance to the cause. Along the way I made many new friends and fell in love with the towns, villages, and countryside, and I strengthened my resolve for this long lost Robb to “come home”.
I do hope the all the best for my Wee Kirk over the Dee and for all who use and visit it. One day I will be among that number.
Kevin Robb