Imagine we can take an actual photo of somebody in Blantyre from the 1890’s and transform it into a short video. Well, here in 2026, that’s now possible. This is Mary Ann Ritchie, the wife of photographer, David Ritchie. The couple, back in 1895 lived at School Lane in High Blantyre having moved from Strathaven. […]
Tonight, we honor Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, born in 1759. His poetry, reflecting love, hardship, and equality, has left a lasting impact, with famous works like Auld Lang Syne. As we celebrate his legacy, we embrace tradition and Scottish pride on this special Burns Night. Slàinte mhath!
Martin Weir, a dedicated metal detectorist, has shared fascinating discoveries from the Blantyre area, including ancient Mesolithic and Bronze Age artifacts. His latest significant find is a hammered silver penny from the reign of King Henry III, minted in Dublin around 1251-1254. This discovery sparks curiosity about its historical journey.
In the 17th century, Lanarkshire was swept up in Scotland’s deadly witch hunts. Women from Lanark, Hamilton and surrounding villages were accused of consorting with the Devil, blighting crops, and cursing neighbours. Many were imprisoned, tortured, and executed based on little more than suspicion or local grudges. Records show Lanarkshire courts were active participants in this grim chapter, […]
The post expresses gratitude to reader Gerry Kelly for sharing a photo of the Blantyre crew in Brae, Ireland. Gerry identifies his father, Jim Kelly, on the right side of the image and invites others to recognize anyone else in the photograph.
In July 1892, a Blantyre resident criticized the Blantyre Independent Co-Operative Society’s committee for constructing a boundary fence themselves instead of hiring local fencers. The complainant argued this decision unfairly deprived local workers of income and suggested that members should address the issue at the next general meeting to challenge the committee’s authority.
Geranium phaeum, or “dusky crane’s-bill,” is a herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its dark violet flowers and lobed leaves. Once rare in the UK, it gained attention in 1892 when found on the ruins of Blantyre Priory. It is now cultivated in gardens across the region.