I’ve been looking at the events of Saturday 29th October 1892 as a new Ambulance Waggon was unveiled at Glasgow Road. Following the inspection of the vehicle (as described in articles here in recent days), the authorities all headed back to the School Room at Stonefield, at the corner of Victoria Street and Glasgow Road.
At 4 o’clock, a public meeting was held in the school room which was well attended. Mr John Jackson of Bardykes presided and also there were Mr John Menzies and John Stewart of Auchenraith, Abram L Spiers, Inspector Lockhart of Blantyre Police, David Mitchell Secretary, Rev Thomas Pryde of Stonefield, Rev James Campbell of Larkfield, Mr William Small, Major Ness, Dr and Mrs JC Wilson, Messrs David Hastie, Robert Dunlop, Andra McAnulty, R.J Milligan and Misses Shaw of Silverwells, Bothwell.
The Chairman called upon Mr Menzies to say a few words.
Mr Menzies reminded everybody that some months ago they had a meeting to see how they could defray the cost of the new ambulance (about £90) and that a committee had been formed to canvas the community for the funds. Not only had the cost of the ambulance been raised, but there was enough to ensure that a new waggon house was erected in the yard of Mr Hastie and that his telephone was now connected to all the collieries. (Applause)
Mr Menzies explained they had stopped short of a special stretcher to carry unfortunate men home from the street on a Saturday night (Laughter).
Mr Spiers the Treasurer confirmed they had actually raised £150, 16s 6d. They were all much in debt to Dr JCowan Wilson who was integral in pushing the endeavour on. He had on occasion previously had to call for an ambulance from Glasgow or Hamilton, but those took time to respond and with hefty callout fees of between £2 and £3, which was being borne by the taxpayer. Concerts and other fundraising events had meant Blantyre now had its own rapid response! Inspector Lockhart and David Mitchell were also thanked for their own notable efforts in the fundraising.
The new ambulance was now at the service of the public, and speeches recognised, may it seldom have to be used! Rev Pryde, slightly caught off guard had no intention of speaking that day, but was called upon. He gave an impromptu speech about Blantyre suffering tragedies in the past and how this new ambulance would be most welcome.
