Pictured here is the 1884 Masonic Lodge in High Blantyre Main Street. Prior to that, the building was widely used throughout the community, not only as a public house, but was an excellent concert hall too.
The building was owned by local pub owner, JB Struthers, a wine wholeseller, who also owned property in the form of public houses at Stonefield Road. His son James BH Struthers owned the Inn at Auchentibber.
This fascinating advert dates from 1879, some 5 years before the hall was used solely as a masonic hall.
BUSINESS INTIMATION. MR JAMES B. STRUTHERS, WINE and SPIRIT MERCHANT, MASONIC HALL BUILDINGS, KIRKTON DISTRICT, HIGH BLANTYRE, GEATrFTJLLY einhracps this opportunity of returning his warmest thanks to his Friends and the Public for their very kind patronage since taking over these Premises. He has much pleasure in saving, that lie has lately erected a great communal Hall, suitable for Concerts, Public Lectures, Excursion Parties, Assemblies, Dinner and Supper Parties, &c. Also, Purveys for Soirees, Marriages, Suppers, Pic-Nics, &c., &c. The Culinary being under the strict management of Mrs Struthers (who has both Home and Foreign experience), may be relied upon as replete in every respect- excellent accommodation. attendance prompt. Charges Moderate. WINES, SPIRITS, AND BEER, of the Finest Quality. , DINNERS Provided for Travellers, Daily, if required. also, GOOD STABLING AND COACH HOUSE. JAMES B. STRUTHERS, Proprietor.