In November 1891, Blantyre Old Parish Church opened its former hall, later demolished in 1989, revealing six well-preserved newspapers documenting significant events of the time. Session clerk Tom McLean highlighted the hall’s historical importance and the community’s efforts in securing funds for its construction, before plans for a new hall were initiated.
Yes, I know, I know! I’ve not posted for a couple of weeks! Apologies. Just a little message to say I’m OK and simply took some time off in July for family holidays. A nice , relaxing time with much reduced screen time and a chance to embark on some other long awaited things. Life […]
Worth a watch. TV presenters Ben Fogle and Dwayne Fields head into the heart of Africa, to retrace David Livingstone’s path in 2 part TV series, “Expedition Search for the Nile” An excellent documentary on Channel 5, which will be available for a time on catchup channels. Charting Livingstone’s Expedition in Africa right through until […]
Long before hydro-electric dams and modern industry, the Falls of Clyde at New Lanark helped power one of Scotland’s most important industrial communities. In the late 1700s, the fast-flowing river drove the great cotton mills that transformed New Lanark into a world-famous centre of innovation. Water from the falls turned massive waterwheels day and night, […]
In the summer of 1891, Lanarkshire experienced a warm season, leading to water scarcity. By May 1892, residents in Blantyre feared drought until rainfall alleviated the crisis. Colonel John Clark Forrest opened his well at the Toll, now Stonefield Public Park, to address the urgent water needs.
Apologies to regular readers for lack of posts this last fortnight. (I’m still here and alive, by the way!) My spare time this month has been consumed by an offline personal building project, which thankfully has progressed well and nearing completion. I hope to find time again in evenings after work to continue history research […]
John Meechan shared nostalgic photos from a school trip to Portabello in 1960, featuring friends from St Joseph’s School. Additionally, he provided images from a 50th reunion held at The KSC club in Blantyre, showcasing the same group of boys 30 years later, evoking cherished memories.