I had a deep shock to learn of the level of homelessness in Blantyre in the 1890’s and just how many people had no option other than to sleep outdoors. As we sit in our central heated homes, it’s difficult to imagine how bad conditions were in Victorian times and this article today, really gives something to think about.
At a Parish Council meeting in December 1894, the Inspector of the Poor had commented that provision had been made to pay financial relief to a further 12 people in Blantyre, but of more concern, during his investigations, he was appalled at the amount of people taking to sleeping rough outdoors in Blantyre’s streets.
Mr Hill drew attention to a growing large number of people considered as ‘tramps’ (those who tramped through the district instead of having a fixed abode) and asked what could be done for them. Especially so, as it was December, in midst of Winter. He had been out in Blantyre during recent nights and had been distressed to see so many people staying out all night, trying to find shelter or keep warm. Particularly distressing was that many of these unfortunate souls were women with young children.
Mr Craig, a Councillor suggested that the situation had arisen as the Poorhouse in Hamilton was now full and they had no power to address this at present, but would have when the new Parish Council structure was brought in. A suggestion was made that instead, to keep these people off the streets, the District Lunatic Asylum may be able to offer shelter.
Despite best endeavours, I can’t find a follow up to this, so don’t know if these people were left on the streets, if they ended up in the asylum of if Councillors took action in some other way.
I have to admit, I haven’t ever thought of people sleeping rough in Blantyre streets in terms of our history until now, but I would like to think that residents in Blantyre would have enough compassion to help if they saw this happening on their doorsteps, rather than ignore it…. even if it was only to offer some food, blankets or shelter in outbuildings.
On Social Media, the following comments were received on Facebook:
William Morley It’s amazing how things come to light that we new nothing about never heard my folks ever talking about this even grand parents