On a warm Summers evening on Thursday 3rd August 1893, some barbaric scenes were witnessed at the side of the River Clyde next to the Craighead Viaduct.
Below the North British Railway, on the banks of the river, a large crowd assembled (following word of mouth) on a vacant piece of land. The intention was to watch a fight!
But not by humans. Two men came forward with 2 ferocious looking bulldogs, which were soon let of the leash. The animals let loose instantly attacked each other. Betting activity was a frenzy around the scene.
A special watch was organised in case police were nearby and several rounds were “fought”. Although it lasted for over an hour, the fight was not interrupted and lasted its course. However, several respectable passers by as they crossed the viaduct were appalled at what they were seeing on their summer evening walk.
The crowd afterwards dispersed, the majority making their way home to Bothwell. Clyde braes are pictured.
