Melvich

   MELVICH, a village, in that part of the parish of Reay which is in the county of Sutherland; containing 253 inhabitants. This village is pleasantly situated on the western bank of the river Halladale, near its influx into the bay of Bighouse, and on the turnpikeroad from Thurso to Tongue; and is principally inhabited by persons engaged in the several fisheries, which are carried on here to a considerable extent. It is neatly built, and the surrounding scenery is pleasingly varied, and at many points boldly romantic; the hills command extensive prospects, embracing nearly the whole of the valley of Strath-Halladale, and the beautiful windings of the river from which it takes its name. The fish taken off this part of the coast are, herrings, cod, ling, turbot, haddock, skate, whiting, flounders, mackerel, sand-eels, and smelts; and in the river salmon are often caught in large numbers. The bay of Bighouse affords secure shelter to the boats employed in the fisheries. In the village is a commodious inn; a branch office under the post-office of Thurso, has been established, at which the mail calls daily; and a school, to which a small library is attached, has been founded under the patronage of the General Assembly.