I called both my grandmothers Nan or Nanna. My maternal grandmother was born Helen, but was known by everyone as Nell or Nelly. So I was amused to read in a letter she wrote aged 14 to her cousin Martha, in America, that "I am called Helen now, but I will still call you Bunty". Unfortunately for Helen, Nelly had stuck, as I don't think I ever heard anyone call her Helen! This blog is written in memory of my nan, Helen, who was born 106 years ago. This post traces Helen’s life from a childhood shaped by war and industry in Scotland to migration, hardship, and family life in Australia — illustrated through letters, photographs, and memories passed down through generations. Early Life in Stevenston (1915–1923) Helen Forrest McDougall was born at 8:20 on the morning of the 6 July 1915 in the Folly Building, High Rd, Stevenston. Stevenston is a seaside town and parish on the North Ayrshire coast. Along with Ardrossan and Saltcoats it is one of the "Three Towns" an...
