Friday’s gathering was presided over by Mr William John Mackay, Ian Mor, Knockfarrel, the chairman of the local branch of the Crofters’ Association. Mr Mackay referred to the fine capabilities of Mrs Mackenzie as a woman and teacher, and said that the closing of the school was a “very sad occasion”. He then called on local resident Mrs E. Ross, for many the school’s cook and cleaner, to present to Mrs Mackenzie with a handsome writing bureau suitably inscribed. The bureau was a token of respect for all Mrs Mackenzie had done for the community from the parents of pupils past and present. The oldest pupil, Brian Cameron, then presented a travelling clock to Mrs Mackenzie on behalf of the pupils, and the youngest pupil, Bryan Macleod, presented her with a beautiful bouquet. Mrs Ross was the recipient of an electric kettle handed over to her by pupil Isobel Simpson.

It was with great feeling that Mrs Mackenzie addressed the gathering and recalled her many happy hours in the little school. She referred to the many pupils who had passed through her hands and finished their education to make their mark in the outside world.
The ten children, with their prizes of books and purses on their laps, sat silently as they listened to their teacher’s voice for the last time in their little schoolroom. Even the five-year-olds were on their best behaviour, as if sensing the end of an era. And Mrs Mackenzie, with tears welling in her kind eyes, had a word for each one of them.

The ceremony over, the children, who will continue their education at nearby Maryburgh School, ran happily out to their compact playing field to take part in their annual sports. Yes, Friday was a sad day in Lochussie ….. but we are sure that every pupil who commenced their education in that schoolroom in its picturesque surroundings, will always remember those days.