In February 1977, Blantyre SNP voted in their next office bearers.
Pictured seated from left to read are Edith Caird, Joe Waugh, David Muir and Nan Stewart. Standing are James Caird, Letitia Waugh, Cathy Muir and Andrew Stewart.
Now you may have read very similar surnames there and that was certainly the case, for this group reads like a family tree including a brother and sister and three married couples. Brother and sister are James and Edith Caird. James was membership Secretary and Edith branch Secretary.
Chairman Joe Waugh, husband of Letitia Waugh the social convener. Vice Chairman David Muir married Cathy Muir, literature secretary. Press Officer, Andrew Stewarts ‘missus’ Nan, organiser and treasurer.
Said Letitia Waugh at the time, “We have over 100 members in Blantyre and they voted us in unopposed. There is no lack of talent in the branch and I suppose the member just thought we’d make a good team and do our jobs well.” The only outsider to this family team was President of the branch, Gordon Murray.
On Social Media, the following comments were received on Facebook:
John Daly Cathie Muir was my Dad’s sister.
Bunty O’Hara John Daly Exactly as I remember them!
Ronnie Mary Woods Joe worked in Duncans down at Springwell
David Baillie My dad canvassed for the SNP then with Davie Hill
Maureen Skeffington Chalmers Great photo!
Janette Brown Keep it in the family
Jane McGuigan Liz Waugh I thought you would enjoy seeing this
Liz Waugh Jane McGuigan OMG!! Where did you find this? My mum & dad and I’m named after Nan as I’m Elizabeth Ann & my middle name is Stuart after Ban & Andrew Stewart. SNP running through my blood. Remember us all getting paid for putting the leaflets through.
Carol King History