In May 1892, Blantyre miner John D stole rum from Blakely’s Pub, causing a disturbance when confronted by the barman. Following his unruly behavior, authorities were called. In court, he received a 10-day jail sentence for this repeated offense. The pub would later be rebuilt in 1894.
Category: Blantyre Business
The Call for Privacy: The 1892 Telegraph Complaints
In 1892, residents complained about a lack of privacy while sending telegraph messages at the Post Office on Glasgow Road, Blantyre. Miss Walker, the sub postmistress, moved the telegraph machine to a back room for privacy. However, postmen sorting letters nearby could see incoming messages, prompting public outcry and letters to the Hamilton Advertiser.
Lachlan Taylor, Gasfitter
In the 1890s, Lachlan Taylor operated a plumbing and gasfitting business in Blantyre, known for quality repairs at reasonable prices. His family business, established in 1832, expanded to fitting gas cookers and exploring electrics. This historical overview highlights businesses from 130 years ago, preserving their legacy for future generations.
Thomas Cross, Painter & Decorator
Some long forgotten history about Blantyre business. Thomas Cross was an early painter and decorator based from High Blantyre. In 1892, he operated from Gardiner Place on Main Street, a former tenement which once sat where the entrance to the carpark is now, next to Day Today and Ladbrokes. Being a painter and decorator in […]
Exploring Sproul’s Boot and Shoe Warehouse in 1892 Blantyre
In July 1892, Sproul’s, a boot and shoe warehouse in High Blantyre, offered footwear sales and cobbler services. Located possibly near School Lane or Hunthill Road, it operated during the construction of nearby Parish Church halls. Sproul’s also had a branch on Stonefield Road, highlighting its significance in the community.
William Muir, Draper & Milliner, 1892
William Muir’s drapery and millinery shop in Blantyre during the 1890s was known for its popular advertisements in the Hamilton Herald. Located on Glasgow Road across from Stonefield Parish Church, it offered a wide range of clothing for men, women, and children, as well as millinery items and accessories.
Move by McKelvey, 1892
In Summer 1892, John McKelvey, a Blantyre watchmaker and jeweller, announced his relocation to McAlpine’s Buildings on Glasgow Road. His advert emphasized his commitment to quality service and reasonable pricing, inviting locals to patronize his new business location while ensuring prompt and neat execution of orders entrusted to him.







