TEMPERANCE

After the closure of the distilleries a new form of social consciousness arose in the form of the Temperance Movement and many in Comrie who were very concerned about drunkenness took up the banner. They resolved to establish a Society outlawing all forms of hard liquor which included whisky, brandy, gin, rum and wines, but they made an exception for ale or beer considering it to be less harmful....however, that was soon to change.

One of their members was seen staggering about the street and when challenged said, “Its yill, lads, just yill.” Others, not yet convinced of the debilitating effects of alcohol, claimed that they had been deceived in the public house when the landlords had put whisky into their ale! It was therefore resolved that no form of alcohol would be permitted and the Royal Oak Chapter of the Good Templars was formed and regular meeting were held. Speakers of high quality from the Scottish Temperance Society were invited to address the membership and the soiree for Handsel Monday for the teetotallers was a great event. A rival Chapter was inaugurated when it was felt by some that the rules of the Royal Oak were too severe but it did not last very long. Later Band of Hope meetings and Temperance Guilds were established and did much good work especially with those who may have slipped off the wagon...but just a wee slip!

Temperance – Cast in Stone!