July 23rd 1633

Walking the walk across the Tay

You can do it, Peter!

The seventeenth century was an age of great Christian faith though some possessed it in greater measure than others. One who believed that faith could indeed perform miracles was Peter Mackie who announced to the people of Perth that he proposed to walk across the Tay.

The event was watched, from the North Inch, by a large and enthusiastic crowd. Peter himself walked to the water’s edge with every confidence but then demanded that sawdust be spread upon the water to prevent it from dazzling his eyes and thereby shaking his faith. This was done and Peter set off on his journey to Bridgend. Unfortunately things did not go according to plan and the only support he received came from the bed of the river.

He persevered until the water at last reached his chin, when, amidst the laughter of the crowd, he could be heard crying out, “Oh Lord, ye’ll surely no drown poor Peter Mackie in this way, gaun your ain errands.”

As the Lord was not disposed to listen to this plea, Peter Mackie turned and made his way sorrowfully back to the North Inch.