Edit Springburn's past
It has a strong historical link to heavy industry, particularly railways, with the manufacturing of locomotives. In the past, Springburn produced 25% of all the trains in the world, thanks to its many train workshops.
These included Cowlairs, Walter Neilson's Hyde Park Works, Sharp Stewart and Company's Atlas works, Eastfield and the Caledonian Railway's St. Rollox works.
Later it became the headquarters of the North British Locomotive Company. Also in Springburn was Eastfield running shed, built by the North British Railway.
St. Rollox became the largest works, and is the only one still in operation today.
The highest point in Springburn and of the City of Glasgow is its famous park on Balgrayhill, donated to Glasgow by James Reid, a business colleague of Walter Neilson, in 1892; a statue in honour of Reid was erected in the park in 1903. Cowlairs F.C. were a founder member of the Scottish Football League in 1890 but were bankrupt by 1896.
The old suburb of Springburn was virtually obliterated by the redevelopment of the area in the 1960s.
The handful of Victorian villas which remain around Balgrayhill gives only a glimpse of what had gone before.
The vision remained incomplete, and by the mid-1970s Springburn had become one of Glasgow's most notorious areas, exacerbated by decaying housing. Since then, substantial activity has ensured a degree of regeneration for the area, but Springburn's core social problems remain.
Scattered through Springburn are various suburban areas (Forest Hall, Fernbank, Colston), which refrain from mingling with the shadier parts of it's society.
Many people from Springburn have left their mark on the world, some of more the famous being Scottish International footballer James McFadden, singer Sydney MacEwan, broadcasters and writers Tom Weir and his sister Molly, the railway author John Thomas, and the politician John McAllion.
The above would be a fair assessment on the brief history of the area. To turn the district from a bustling small town into a ghetto of housing schemes is a mark which has scarred the area and it will not go away. The road which splits Springburn in two having being built in 1984 was also a contributing factor in the demise of the area, for which most of Springburn Road had been cleared between the years of 1975 and 1985. Any regeneration for this area will not bring back the area's former identity as a bustling town; it will only serve to replace failed housing schemes built in the 60's.
I would go futher than Gordon Waddell's good comment and say that any regeneration for springburn would have to be of a massive scale, eg. planned east end, to try to inject some kind of revival into what was one of Glasgow's great industrial centres
it doesn't matter what regeneration gets done if they still let the hooligans and the crooks run the scheme which has happened for the last 40 years
Born and bred in Springburn 1960, lived in Reid House Street which is now behind the shopping centre and then Cowlairs Road before moving up to Hilda Crescent, Old Robroyston. My family all worked in the Caley and St Rollox rail works and my mother Jackie Inglis tought dancing with Nan Keeling in the old Cowlairs dairy in Kemp Street and also the Quarrywood Halls,Barmulloch. My primary Barmulloch now has the biggest influx of refugees which my 3 kids are now at and are being held back due to large numbers and English is not the first language their classmates know, the school needs to be demolished and rebuilt as it is 48 years old. Springburn is now a deprived area and is way down the list of Westminster and council list priorities, the scheme is falling apart.
I was born in Springburn in Keppochhill Road and lived there until I was 20 years old and emigrated to the United States. It was a wonderful place to live especially during school summer holidays when a group of us youngsters would walk to the swimmig baths in Kay Street. We would come out after a good swim and go across to the City Bakeries at Balgrayhill and get something to eat. Wonderful times were spent at Springburn park in the paddle boats in the pond. We would walk for miles in those days. I remember going to Mr McLeods barber shop at the corner of Millarbank Street and getting my hair cut and if you were sick your parents got your medicine at Mr. McNees Chemist shop at the corner of Springburn Road and Flemington Street. It was always a big treat when your mother took you to the Cooperative and got you a new pair of shoes or a winter coat. On Saturday mornings we used to go to a matinee at the Princess Picture house in Gourlay Street and we had a club at the Princess called the ABC Miners and they gave us a Christmas Party at Christmas and we always looked forward to that. I always felt so lucky to have the wonderful memories of those days. I have lived in the United States now for 47 years and live in the State of Georgia. My Maiden name was Isabella Brisbane and I would love to hear from anyone who may remember me. I went to St Theresas and St.Cuthberts Schools. I probably would not recognize Springburn to-day but he wonderful days of growing up there I will always cherish. My Email address is clyd709@aol.com would love to hear from someone.
My dad is over from America and was born in Springburn and went to the wee albert and then on to the big albert off Drumbottie Road. Is the school still there? My dad is 80 now and wants to know if any one can help.
Hi Alice. The Big Albert is now called Springburn Academy and was re-built a few years back. The Wee Albert is still the same school.
phots of stobhill in the 1969s
"Springburn" ... just the name of the district, sends a surge of pride through me. I was born in Cowlairs Rd. in 1941 and I have many, many fond memories of people and places, that were a wonderful part of my formative years. I remember 'community' and our auld 'Maw Pates' Granny Paterson, who lived up oor close and her daughters, who were always available to take wains to the doctor's, the hospital and not for any 'fee' I remember us wains standing awestruck as a great big train turned onto Springburn Rd. from Vulcan St, with another 'choo choo' bound for some faraway land. I see some negative comments about the schemes possibly referring to Balornock and Barmulloch. I lived in both places. What I remember of Balornock would take me years to tell. How close to nature and history. Our National Hero, Sir William Wallace was betrayed on the outskirts of Balornock. A drinking well, near where he was 'shopped' and having, possibly, the longest street in the scheme named after him, "Wallacewell Rd. and Wallace's Well" Sledding on Littlehill Golf Course. Good schools, Balornock, St.Roch's, Colston, Albert, Petershill. Hyde Park etc. whose former pupils are now scattered all over the world. My 'Message Board' "Springburn Place" has contributors from Canada, the U.S. of A., Australia, South Africa and even Ruchazie, Newcastle and London on the 'home front' Springburn is still 'dear to their hearts' and deservedly so. I happen to share the name of Springburn's great benefactor, 'James Reid' but sadly, not the wealth, ha! ha! but I do have that great love of my 'auld toon' and sign a lot of the Glasgow Website's I visit, "Springburn Jimmy Reid" Especially to my Pals on the "GlesgaPals and Sunny Govan" sites. A famous son who appears to have been overlooked in the cryptic description of Springburn above is our very own, the late "Karl Denver" or, as his Springburn faimily caw him, Gus McKenzie, R.I.P. I was home in 1988 and cried when I saw what that Commie Council had done to my street, Cowlairs Rd. and I wished that I could 'gas' that mob in the City Chambers. They can destroy the auld buildings of Springburn, but not the great love that 'us yins fae therr' carry with us, all over the world. Springburn Lives!!
Hi. I read your site with great interest. I lived in Possilpark, but went to Albert Senior Secondary School in Mansel street Springburn from 1952 to 1958. My sister still lives in Springburn road, at the Huntershill end. I moved to Australia in 1969, but have returned frequently. I was shocked at seeing how the heart of Springburn had been ripped out by developers. During a recent visit home, I went to visit my old school, and was dismayed that it had been demolished. A passer-by told me it had been a listed building, had been closed and then vandalised and torched (I think Glasgow District Council might be the bigger vandals). I ran "Albert" through Google looking for more information. It appears the school was replaced by Springburn Academy nearby, and now the site is having housing built on it for people from the Red Road tower blocks. If any former pupils care to contact me (flyingscotsman@smartchat.net.au) I will ve pleased to hear from them -in particular, Fraser Gordon, who lived in Keppochhill road, and later worked for the YMCA in Sauchiehall street; Seth Sykes, who lived at 363 Springburn Road, almost opposite McNees the chemist, Ian Venters, who I last met on a 16 tram in St George's road in 1959. It's hard to realise the Springburn we knew and loved is gone, and with it a great community spirit. I recall Gourley street, which still had gas street lights as late as 1954, at least at the middle section, and the old tram depot in Keppochhill road, next to the fire station on the corner of Springburn road. As you passed the old depot you often could see the tram tracks still in place, some 60 years after the depot was closed and taken over by other businesses. One day in the 80's I peered over the wall at the back of the depot abd was astonished to see the original depot track fan, still in pace. The depot was the first electric tram depot in Glasgow, built for the first electric trams or "sparkies" in 1898. What a wonderful, original site for a working tram museum, and a form of transport that served Glasgow and surrounding areas for over 90 years. But, like the treatment of Springburn itself - NO VISION! Keep up your great work! John Stewart P.S. I attach snapshot of the boys' playground at Albert, 20.9.62
BOYS' PLAYGROUND ALBERT SECONDARY SCHOOL, 20.9.62
I have added a picture of myself at the boys' gate at ALBERT SECONDARY (opposite Drumbottie road) 20.9.62. I would repeat my invitation to former pupils of ALBERT, especially in the 1950's, to get in touch. It would be great to hear from ANDREA CASSIDY, FRASER GORDON, IAN VENTERS, ALEX SMITH AND IAN KENNEDY and any of the others. The last three named may have gone to Australia in the early 60's WILL BE HAPPY TO HEAR FROM ANYONE WHO ATTENDED THIS GREAT SCHOOL!
I attended Albert school 1947-49. Does anyone remember Mr Goudie,English teacher and his "band of hope" scheme. I was in Australia for years after National Service 1954-56 and returned to Glasgow in 2006 permanently. Some changes right enough. Jack Mayhew, email,,ehaswell@btinternet.com
I was just thinking last friday of the great excitement that used to be on Rair Friday. All the Factories would close and a well deserved holiday was just starting for many familys. There was so much electricity in the air and people were so happy. In those days those of us who could would normaally take day trips or go Doon The Watter for a couple of weeks.Rothesay Dunoon Etc Etc.We would usually go to self catering flats so had to take a lot of household things with us. I remember the excitement of getting the Hamper Packed and the Railway Van coming and picking it up. It had to be picked up almost a week before you went on holiday so it would be at your destnation when you got there. Then the Excitement of Fair Sturday came when we would go the Central Station in Glasgow and get the Tain to Wemyss Bay and then get on the boat to Rothesay or wherever you were going. To-Day being that we are in a very small Global World and with modern Transportation we can travel far in a very short time people are going far afield to more Exotic Destinations and with a better chance of getting better weather. Somehow back years ago the weather did not matter it was just the thrill of getting to the seaside with your Bucket and Spade. yes times have changed but as a child I will always Remember those Days and when each Fair Friday rolls around somehow my thoughts are gravitated to that era. It is also a time to reflect on those who are no longer with us who we spent so many happy times with. As the Song goes Those Were The DAys My Friend. In my mind they will never end feel so fortunate to have Grown up In Springburn. Will Stop here Isabella Powell nee BRISBANE FORMERLY kEPPOCHHILL rOAD NUMBER 377.From 1939-1960 Now Soperton Georgia U.S.A Would love to hear from someone who might remember me clyd709@aol.com P.S Sorry for the Typo Errors
I was a springburn boy (huntingdon place or square, I can't remember which now). my playground was the area between springburn road and pinkston which we called 'tinnies' but was as I know now, the spoil heaps from the 'tennants' works on the banks of the canal at castle street. My first day at my first school, petershill primary, saw me running home at the first chance I got. Infants had to share the playground with the primary girls, which horrified me as I had a dislike of girls at that age. That first day I decided that I didn't like school and that stayed with me for the rest of my schooldays. At that time there were bullies among the pupils but there were far more among the teachers who used the tawse at the slightest excuse and who took delight at catching you in the tenderest part, the underpart of the wrist being a good example or when the hands were numb with cold. The pain of the returning circulation coupled with the pain from the belt was excrutiating. Did it make us more obedient people? Did it heck. I despised them and eventually learned to control myself whilst being belted so that I didn't show any pain, which didn't please them at all. Fortunately school was only a small part of life then and there was a great big world away from it. As I got older I ranged further afield, swimming in the canal behind the power station in pinkston where the water was warm from the cooling tower, port dundas where small coasters carried cargoes for the breweries and distillers, steam locomotives and swing bridges over the canal, fountainwell park where there was a piggery and where gypsies with their wagons and horses would camp, springburn park with its' boating lake and tennis grounds, kay street swimming baths, mavis valley at bishopbriggs where we picked rasperries, blackberries and gooseberries, the forth and clyde canal where I saw trawlers passing through on their way to the north sea, all of which were a source of wonder to this small boy. I vaguely remember school holidays where we poor 'needy' glasgow kids were put up in other school classrooms fitted with beds in other parts of scotland; keith in banffshire, or tarbert on the mull of kintyre being two I remember. also travelling on clyde steamers and paddleboats and a few holidays to a number of ayrshire resorts, but my most abiding memories are of family outings from queen street station to rhu near helensburgh. Nothing there but a stony beach and cold sea but great fun for us kids, a break in the local pub for the uncles, a chance to gossip for the aunts, a feast of mussels and whelks from the mussel beds cooked in a pot on an open fire, the single carriage train where us kids were packed up on the luggage rack, mussels being packed into the old tin bath with water, salt and porage oats and shared out the following day. Simple pleasures for simple folk
My name is Morag McMahon my father Hugh Miller was born in 1912 in Springburn. His parents were Hugh Miller and Jemima MacDonald his grandparents were Kenneth and Sarah MacDonald. In my research the name Cowlairs comes up. Does anyone know these people trying to trace my scottish roots. You can email me on cuddles@infogen.net.nz
i went to albert from 1957-1960 my name then was Buckley left in 1960 as my mother remarried and we moved to Motherwell My friends then were GRACE aNDERSON aVRIL sTEWART AND bETTY hENDERSON. lOVED MY TIME AT aLBERT
Chricton street was where i was raised 5 in a single end. Ah the old Springburn Graveyard. I remember playing in the 'woods' on the big swing with the huge rope. Burns a plenty lol. Who remembers the devils circle? Dyke jumpin ana. Surprised I'm not dead from that lol. Also memba my mum chasing rats round the back court with an axe haha. The wall I used to struggle to get up when I was a nipper seems so small thesedays. Also had the pleasure of living in the old fire station which I used to sneak into as a nipper to play in the basement:) Used to use the old close toilets as a gang hut as well i recall after they were locked up. Remember too we used to play on the railway behind the old social club. Used to wander up and down the tracks for miles.
My name is Davy Duncan, I am trying to trace the McIntyre family from Queenshill Street. My mother was a cousin to Neilly McIntyre a well known and popular boxer in the 1930`s /40`s. Any info gratefully recieved, davy_duncan@hotmail.com
My name is Anne Mc Farlane maiden name (Mc Keown), I am trying to trace a guy with a nick name Toby I think his last name was Thompson and his Mum and Dad lived in Bishopbriggs Road he will probably be in his 60s now, I lived in Balgrahill road with my Dad up above a shop in 1967/68 and I use to work in the Garage in Bishopsbriggs Road part time facing his Mum and Dads house, I now live in London and would love to hear any from anyone that knows of this person or remembers me or any information, we use to go out in a crowd on a friday night and had quite a few laughs in those days as I was a young girl then, I was a bit lost at the time as I just came out of a Convent and went to stay with my Dad in Springburn, you can email Annemcfarlane@hotmail.com
Hi all, I lived at 5 Eastfield Terrace in the 'blocks' with outside toilet then moved to 25 Fernbank Place with inside toilet! pure luxury. Iwent to St.Aloysius Primary, Elmvale Street then the one Carelston Street. Went to swimming lessons every Wednesday at Kay Street baths, then when we came out got fritters from the chippie. People I remember from school are Peter Timmons, Neil McEwan, Delia Mcabe, Janet Templeton and Bertie Biagini. From Danny Morgan
Just recently i have been looking at photo's of ma Granda (William Kidd) who was president of Springburn Railway Club, Morrin Street. He was a gentleman apparently and in one of the photo's he has on the club blazer with R.S.A.S on the crest. Does anyone know what this stands for?? I don't have any family to ask and would really appreciate any stories of this time!!!
I'm looking for Jean Martin who went to Springburn Academy in 1953 or does anyone know any other Martins who attended at that time or before that? If you do, email me on a.martin197546@yahoo.co.uk
Dear all
This for me has been an awaking.
I have spoken with my big brother on the phone he lives in Canada and he told me about this blogg.
To me Springburn was where I was born, Cowlairs Rd. above the chippy a single end for the five of us.
We moved to Balornock in 1948 as Jim explains we moved to Wallacewell Rd 315 where we spent our youth.
I was the wee fat yin. When I left Petershill I worked on the dinning carsout of Queen St station to Oban.
I left and went to sea in the merchant navy.
I now live in England and have retired after 32 years at Rolls Royce nuclear.
Billy Litterick:
Monday morning 1st June 2009
There I was sitting on my sofa at home, sick as a dog with flu, off work and bored reading, watching tv and sleeping. At last, an old episode of Taggart came on tv.
After watching it, not only do I still feel as sick as a dog, but now I'm also all melancholic, so I logged on to the internet and found out that Mark McManus died 15 years ago.
That didn't make me feel any better - he was a great actor who made Taggart a real person.
That made me start trawling the net looking for Glasgow sites until eventually here I am.
I was born and bred in 4 Ayr Street opposite Hydepark School, which was my primary school.
I went on to the Albert Senior Secondary school from 1965 - 1970.
I was the youngest of three brothers, David, Ian and myself.
Sadly, Ian died in 1998. David has lived in Leverburgh in the Western Isles for the last 20 odd years.
My dad died in 1962 when I was nine and my mother died of cancer in 1970 when I was writing my highers.
My memories of Springbburn include playing football in the street with Bobby Bauld who lived in the hoose above us - there were hardly any cars in the street in these days for you to stuff up, so you only had the polis to worry about.
I went to Springburn Baptist Church and the thing that sticks in my memory is coming out of the Sunday School and waiting at the bridge for the steam train to pass under us and cover us with its steam - what a wonderful smell.
Friday nights meant take away night, with a black pudding supper or an ashet pie supper for me and sometimes a special fish supper for my mother from Marios at the corner of Springburn Road and Keppochill Road.
Friday nights also meant the 202nd BB with Alex McMillan as the captain, and Ramsay Hodgson one of the officers. When it came out at around nine, we used to go to Santis chippie for a packet of chips and a pickled onoin before going home. I always thought their chips tasted of cheese.
Later on when I was a bit older, Friday nights meant a couple of hours at the Vulcan or the Highland Fling, or sometime even the Kerry Inn.
My first love was Maureen Deary - she stayed in Adamswell Street. I think I met her when I was eight - my dad was still alive.
He died soon afterwards.
We, 'went out', together for a few years against all odds, after all, she was a Catholic and I was a Proddy, but we didn't care.
I remember Maureen used to have to take the pale down to the midden when she came home from school.
When I heard this, I decided I would do it for her, so every day I would creep up the stairs, take it down and take it back up.
One day, her mother opened the door as I was about to put the pale back, and she gave me a Mars bar.
We lost touch not long after her family moved up to one of the two high rise blocks close to the Balgary.
Saturday afternoons meant standing outside Petershill Park and asking, 'mister gonny lift us in', and the man would lift us over the turnstyles so we could get in to watch the match, and at half time we would be the future stars as we played on the pitch behind the goal.
I also remember McNees the chemist. Everybody said that he wanted to become a doctor, but failed his exams and became a pharmacist.
His ubiquitous Jag that sat in Flemington Street was testament to his success.
Saturday morning was shopping day in Springburn Road - a half pound of Ayrshire bacon and new potatoes seems to come to mind.
Does anyone remember the chocolate Fry's Five Boys - I think my mother used to buy it for me from the Coop.
I was working during my school holidays in the Coop in Keppochill Road - it must have been 1968/9, when the sound of police cars pelting by along Springburn Road brought everyone out the shop.
They were chasing, as I found out later, James Griffiths who they subsequently killed in a flat next to the Kay Street baths.
He was Patrick Meehan's pal who was later wrongfully jailed for the post office murder in Ayr.
I now live in a small village called Waterfall about 25 miles west of Durban in South Africa. I've been here now for about 38 years.
I went up to Springburn five years ago the last time I was back.
It no longer has anything left for me.
People make a place, and it's the people of Springburn that I knew that I remember.
They decimated our homes, but as long as there are web sites like this, there can always be a Springburn community.
See, I told you I was melancholic.
Hello lived in Galloway St until I was 19 left to go to Asutralia and live here still.
Had some wonderful friends, and some wonderful memories, of football, boys brigade, school (Elmvale/Colston).
On some days the best thing that could be done with the place was to put a bulldozer through it, on others there was nowhere better to live.
I have moved on, let's hope there can be something put in place to remove the them and us feelling of the original post re Springburns history.
All I can say is that I hope there are more days now where there is nowhere better to live.
Hi
My name is Karen and I'm looking for my great gran aunt, her name is Betty Mcanerny.
The last address I have for her is 133 Barmulloch Springburn Road.
If Betty is alive she would be 99-yrs-old.
She has a son John who used to live with her, she also has a daughter Marie.
I would be grateful for any information on Betty.
Our family would like to know what happened to her.
Thanks
My name is Elizabeth pollock.
I was brought up in 64 Flemington St.
We lived in my grannie Mcdowalls house, which had a scullery with a recess bed and 1 bedroom.
We had 7 of us sleep in the bedroom, and my grannie and wee uncle Billy slept in the recess bed which made 9 of us sharing the house.
My grannie was nicknamed wee Annie at the bookies.
We used to get our food and sweets from Minnie and Archie Durhams shop.
I went to Hydepark school and so did my brother Bobbie.
The rest of the kids were too young.
We also went up to Jeannie Murchies bakers for our bread and scones and sour milk which my dad loved.
Her shop was across from Hoeys big store.
I also went to the corner shop across from McNees for my grannies snuff.
On a Saturday we went to the matinee at the Princess cinema, and I remember watching Davy Crockett .
My grannie used to go to the steamie at the baths near Balgrayhill with her old pram, and when we came out she would get us a fritter out of the chippie, and then we would go over to the Balgrayhill cafe for a hot bovril if it was a cold weather or a Vimto if it was warm.
Does anyone remember the Salvation Army band, that used to play at the top of Flemington Street.
I always used to go up with my brothers and sisters just too watch the wee man on the drum, he used to wink at us and always gave us a sweet when they finished playing.
I would love to hear from anyone who has any school photos of 1950 to 1954 as I don't have a photo of myself.
I am sure my mum could not afford to buy one then.
My grannie Mcdowall used to live in 32 Vulcan St in1915 before she moved too Flemington Street.
I remember the Lethams family and a Jim Adams who lived in the same close as me.
I will say cherio for now.
Elizabeth Pollock(lizzie)
In reply to Sandra Dickson, RSAS stands for Railway Staff Association of Scotland.
I use to go to the club in Morrin Street on Sunday Evening to watch "What's My Line" on the television there.
My Dad probably knew your father as he had a lot of iinvolvement in the club.
Hello
My name is Ann and I'm looking for information about someone who used to live in Springburn, in Adamswell Street - No 36 to be more exact.
I've been doing some work on my family history and think that the lady who lived in this house, could be a very close relative of my mum's.
If anyone can help - that'd be great.
I don't live in Great Britain anymore, but in France, otherwise I'd take myself off to Glasgow and have a look myself, so any info would be just great.
Have to say I really enjoyed reading all the different posts.
Have a nice day
Ann
DUNCAN ARMOUR SAYS
I onced lived at 17 Fountainwell road and went to Petershill Primary(1947-1954) then Colston Secondary(1954-1957)
I have great memories of Springburn a great place to be brought up in.
I remember on Saturday's I would help to make the oxo drinks for the St. Rollox Church football team, which I think was run by a Mr Deas.
I believe he was also the church officer, our minister was the Reverend Gourlay Black.
In 1956 we moved to Castlemilk where I used to travel to my school at Colston.
When I left school I started as an apprentice baker in Bilsland's bakery in Anderston.
duncanarmour@talktalk.net
I lived at 17 Fountainwell road, went to Petershill Primary School(1947-1954), got a J3 pass in my quali and went to Colston Secondary(1954-1957)
My years in Springburn were the best I can remember, the head teacher's name at Petershill's primary was Ebanezor Kelso.
Quite a common name - I mean Ebanezor - haha,
I also helped out on a Saturday serving the orange juice and making the hot oxo for the St Rollox church football team.
I left Springburn in 1956 and moved to Castlemilk another great place.
Left school, started work as an apprentice baker at Bilsland's Bakery in Anderston working alongside the friendliest people in the world
Keep happy,
duncanarmour@talktalk.net
Tom Gibson says hello.
Born may 7/37 @ 10 Ayr Street, moved to Possilpark 1948, 40th BB Hillkirk Church. moved to Canada 1963.
Like to hear from anyone still around
Melvyn Lynch says: My Dad, Eugene Lynch, was Sprinburn born and bred - living in Kay Street as a boy with his sisters Helen and Margaret.
In the early 1950s my brother Eugene and I lived in Gourlay Street, next to the grocer's shop at the top end (152 maybe).
We lived in the house next door to the shop.
The shop was one of the first off licences in the town, called Sirs, which some of you may remember.
My Dad bought Jackson's Bar in Cowlairs Road in the early 60s, changing its name to the Highland Fling and adding a Lounge Bar that must have been one of the first venues for live music in the town.
I remember working there in 1964-66 when the resident band was the Hood Bias and Friday and Saturday nights were mobbed.
Last visited the pub about 1990 and it was pretty deserted.
Interestingly enough, as I was sitting having a drink a couple of punters at the bar started talking about the "good old days", when a guy called Eugene Lynch and his wife Margaret ran the place.
Also saw it on the episode of Taggart mentioned above.
There were some real characters in the pub in those days and in Springburn itself - until the Corporation decided to demolish the town to make a flyover into Glasgow.
Could go on all night - the ABC Minors, the Rushie Quarry, Hoeys Emporium, that seemed to sell everything in the world.
Seem to remember a lot of grime and grey and not much colour around in the 50s - and giving the ragman your Mum's coat for a goldfish or a balloon, only for her to chase after him to get it back.
Hi
Lived in Springburn, 24 Springvale Terrace to be exact the big house up the cobbled hill facing the train station.
Loved Springburn and would be great if anyone minds the family.
Armstrongs was ma grans name a was Shepherd
Hi my name is Catherine Mills I was brought up in Huntington Place I have a sister called Ruby, brother Bruce, James, older sisters Anna and Margaret who have sadly passed away. I have recently been in touch with the McLuckies.My sister Ruby would love for all the people who lived in the square to get together for a big reunion it would be great to hear and see everyone again.
My name is George Douglas went to Gourlay St School late fourties, Colston Rd early fifties. Now in australia for the last 50 years. Lived at 15 Endrick Kepoch Hill rd near the railway bridge. my Email hag@vic.australis.com.au. Hpoe to hear from somewon.
My mother was born in Keppochill Road, my dad in Ayr Street and I lived in Bedlay Street just off Petershill road with my parents and two brothers from 1967 until 1977. I went to Hydepark Primary and Colston Secondary. My name then was Joan Mackay and I find it really strange that I so far haven't traced anyone from that era! I wonder where they all went to? I have tried FR and various other sites without success, so if you are out there please get in touch. At Hydepark Primary I was in Mrs Goldberg's class, then Miss Douglas's class and finished up in Mrs Falconers class (although she went with her maiden name until she got married and I've forgotten what that was). We used to get taken to Colston Sec School by bus for swimming lessons in Primary 7. I remember me and one of my pals crying the day we left Hydepark School! I was quite outgoing and regularly used to do my Highland Dancing in front of the class and direct and act in short plays. Yeah, I was a bit of a drama queen. I would love to hear from anyway I knew from back then. When I lived in Springburn the rot had already set in with poor housing conditions and so on but in my opinion it was still a pretty busy, bustling place with everything we needed close by. I also believe the sense of community was much stronger back then. I do retain very fond memories of the old place.
Hi Karen Soal,
I grew up in Galloway Street Springburn, and I think the local hospital might be the place you're looking for.
The official address for Stobhill Hospital is 133 Balornock Road Glasgow and lots of old people lived for years in the care of the elderly blocks. The hospital would be a good place to ask for further home address.
I went to Elmvale then Colston and was in every club I could think of, drama club, choir, girls brigade, I loved everything about growing up in Springburn and saw all the local gangs right outside our window at night, but it was part of what growing up was all about, seeing the good and bad of life.
Made you appreciate your own decent family, especially on a Sunday.
Getting your breakfast with the Broons or Oor Wullie and being all tucked up in bed safe and cosy.
Hi
My name is Charles Adams.
I lived in 503 Keppochhill road age 7 with my mum Jessie Kerr Whitelaw age 29 and step dad David Whitelaw.
My mum died on 17 aug 1969.
I would love to speak to any one who remembers me or new my mum
Jessie Kerr Whitelaw
Hi Cathy
I'm George Baggley.
I was just a bit yonger than your brother Bruce.
I have a brother Billy and a sister Yvonne who stays in England.
My cousion Jim Kimmet passed away recently and Jean Mcluckie was at his funeral.
Nils Dahl must be about 70 now cos I'm 66 but not to remember if it was square or place ?
Of course it was HUNTINGDON PLACE he never was a square MON THE HUNTS
Hi
I'm Jimmy Young, lived in Springburn until I was 5, moved moved to the Balornock and Auchinairn area about 1950.
Went to Knockburn and Colston schools.
Been in Canada from 1966 till now.
Would love to hear from anybody from that era
RUBY MILLS (now McCandlish) says: Hi George Baggley. I remember your and your brother billy and your wee sister. You are right about Nills nor being an actual squary becase he stare in Springburn Road above the shops but he was close enough. My brother Bruce is 71 and lives in wigan. He has been trying to trace Tommy Lewis who stayed up the chippy close just round from the pub, the halfway house. He had a sister called Celia. I was sorry to hear about Jim Kimmet and I have been in touch with May McLuckie and Carol Menzies, who is a cousin of Nils. If you can with the whereabouts of Tommy Lewis it would be great my email is mccandlish59@hotmail.co.uk
Hi Duncan Armour I lived in Huntingdon Place and went to Petershill primary and then to Colston. I attended St Rollox church, brownies, guides etc I remember the Rev Gourlay Black. He stayed in a house on the Balgray Hill and I used to go round in my bike delivering the 'Church Messenger' magazine. I also remember Ebenezer Kelso. It's good to look back. Springburn was such a great place to live.
HI KATE
YES ITS ME, UR BIG BROTHER BRUCE
IT WAS DEFINETLY CALLED THE SQUARE AND I JUST ABOUT REMEMBER U GEOGE AND WIILIE LOGUE, TAM LEWIS, DAVY MURRAY, WILMA ROONEY, GEORGIE CURRIE.
I CAN REMEMBER SOME ONE CALLED MCLEAN BUT NOT VERY WELL.
MY SISTER RUBY HAS A PHOTO TAKEN IN THE SQUARE WHEN WE WERE KIDS AND NILS DAL IS ON IT.
I HAVE A COPY SO I WILL TRY AND POST IT ON MY FACEBOOK.
IF ANYONE IS INTERESTED MY E-MAIL ADDRESS IS:
BRUCEMILLS70@HOTMAIL.COM
I WOULDE LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANY OF YOU AND SO WOULD OUR RUBY AS SHE IS INTO WRITING AND MAYBE SHE COULD WRITE A PIECE ON THE SQUARE.
KATE SEND ME UR E-MAIL ADDRESS.
I LIVED AT NO 6 HUNTINGDON PLACE ( THE SQUARE )
Hi to Eliazabeth Pollock.
My name is Bobby Henderson and I was born in Stobhill hospital in July 1947 and lived at 88 Flemington street until I was 10 years old with my Mum and Dad and 2 older sisters, Irene and Jackie. We then moved to Easterhouse in 1957.
We all went to Hydepark school and I remember a photo being taken of the boys and girls in my class in the boy's playground in front of the main doors by a man with a box brownie camera.
I think it was about 1955 or 1956 and if you are the 'Lizzie' Pollock I think you are, I believe you had a sister called June who was in my class and was in that photo.
I have since learned from my sister Irene, that that particular photo was in the Springburn museum which has unfortunately been closed sometime in the last 10 years, but I'm sure the contents of the museum must be stored somewhere. If anyone knows can you please let me know?
You were hoping for some photos of yourself when you lived in Springburn, but I'm afraid I don't have any from that time as my parents were not well enough off to afford a camera.
Also, I think our tenement block was number 88 to 82 (4 closes), with 82 at the Ayr street end and 88 next to the N.B. Loco. offices. Unfortunately the whole building has now gone and I thought you lived at no. 84 or 82?
I also remember Jim Letham and his sister Doreen Letham, Minnies wee shop in Ayr street and Archies on the corner of Ayr street and Flemington street.
I have great memories of being a child in Springburn. I remember the salvation army band playing at the top of Flemington street on Sunday evenings, standing on the footbridge at the bottom of the street and getting steam in my face as the trains came out of the yard, boating in Springburn park, Kay street baths on a Sunday morning, the 3 picture houses (The Astor, The Kinema and The Princess) where I used to go on a Saturday morning to the ABC minors.
I also remember the doorman in his uniform inside the revolving doors of the N.B. Loco. offices in Flemington street who we used to call 'Baldy Bain', he used to chase us off for running round the revolving doors. Does anyone remember him? I have so many great memories of Springburn in that 10 years I could go on and on.
I had some school friends called William Bell, David Aitken, David Graham and Billy Hooks. I also remember going to the end of term School dance with a girl called Rosemary McCallum. Does anyone rememer her?
I have travelled to almost 50 countries and worked in 10 different countries as a constuction manager and now live in Panama in Central America, but never forget my roots in Springburn and have in fact seen railway engines in India and Cuba that were built in Springburn, which I proudly pointed out to anyone who was listening.
Finally, before I left the UK, I went to have another look at Springburn with my 30 year old son (who lives in Bristol) and was saddened at how much it had changed over the years, but fortunately we can still look at pictures from the past through different websites, and just like me, I'm sure those who were brought up in Springburn in the 40s, 50s and 60s, will never forget what a great place it once was?
You can e-mail me at bobsal4752@yahoo.co.uk.
Bye for now.
Dear Mr Litterick, I found this site by accident today while looking for an old friend and came across your entry "My first love was Maureen Deary - she stayed in Adamswell Street. I think I met her when I was eight ..... We lost touch not long after her family moved up to one of the two high rise blocks close to the Balgary." Maureen moved into the unit two floors above me into Unit 11-C. Mine was Flat 9c, 53 Carbisdale Street. Her dad's name was Jim, mother's name and younger sister's names are now sadly forgotten. Maureen went to St Augustine's Sen. Secondary on Liddesdale Rd which is sadly now demolished. She was two years behind me in school. A very striking girl of acquiline features, slim with long dark hair and even darker flashing eyes and a hair trigger temper. I was not surprised that she came from Adamswell Street as her friend I was looking for, also came from there (#72 I think or was it #12?). Three girls from Adamswell St were prominent in my list of friends as a youth. Your friend became a good friend of mine (platonic only) and the two others, very unplatonic but still relatively innocent. The friend I was trying to track down was Anne or Ann Brogan (Maiden Name) who was related she said, to Jim, the Celtic Player. Anyway, I only lived in those flats for a short time, escaped and was interred in the Royal Air Force for a number of years and then successfully evaded remaining in the UK and fled back to Edmonton (where I was born in 1950) in 1980. Living on four acres outside Sherwood Park since the mid '90s, I am grateful to have survived Springburn (where I learned to be fleet of foot and not given to street arguments). as it taught me essential survival skills. It is a small world and I hope I have helped you gain some closure on your lost love. Shouldn't be too hard to find......if you try. You can just see the corner bedroom window of Maureen's Flat in the small picture attached. Nearest corner right at the top. There were and still are four tower blocks. 53 Carbisdale St is the furthest west and highest building. Enjoy your memories. email is: kblaine@telusplanet.net Kevin Blaine, Sherwood Park Alberta, Canada
Carbisdale St from the southeast corner
HI MY NAME IS BRUCE MILLS AND I ONCE LIVED IN THE SQUARE (HUNTINGDON PLACE ) AN OLD FRIEND HAS JUST SENT ME AN OLD PHOTO OF THE SWING PARK TAKEN JUST BEFORE IT WAS DEMOLISHED GOD IT BROUGHT BACK SOME GREAT MEMORIES. I LEFT SPRINGBURN IN NOV 1959 TO JOIN THE ARMY AND I,VE NEVER BEEN BACK TO SPRINGBURN SINCE I WISH I HAD BECAUSE IVE LOST TOUCH WITH SO MANY OLD FRIENDS AND WE ARE ALL GETTING ON NOW AND GETTING IN TOUCH AND KEEPING IN TOUCH UNFORTUNATELY CAN ONLY BE DONE THROUGH THIS SITE AND FACEBOOK IF YOU ARE ON THE NET. I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ANY ONE WHO KNEW ME MY ADDRESS IS BRUCEMILLS70@HOTMAIL.COM OR CONTACT GEORGE BAGGLEY ON BIGGLES44@GOOGLEMAIL.COM IF YOU THINK YOU KNOW ME HAVE A LOOK AT PHOTOS ON FACEBOOK
Hello
I am Moira Suitters (Gauld)
I came to live in Springburn in 1951
We lived in Alford Street, went to Gourly ZSt. school then to Hydepark School.
Springburn is a changed place it is so sad to see what has happend to it.
It is nice to remember the nice things that we had as children.
I went to the Salvation Army when I was about 11yrs, it was there I met my husband Craig.
Springburn still has a place in my heart
Bye for now
Moira
Hello I used to live 93 or 39 Ayr street just forgot the number of the close.
Was just around the corner from Flemington street.
My Grandfather, Father and brother used to work in Hydepark they built they were platers or something like that.
They are all passed on but I remember sitting outside watching when the brought the trains out to show and what a site it was.
I went back a few years ago to have a look at Ayr street what a big Change not the same but the memories will live on.
I was looking for some friends that used to stay in our close on aye street the Girls of the Keenan family they lived in the close.
I did meet a few years ago one girl I remembered she now lives in the Milton with her family.
Her Name was Betty Geddes her mom used to make the best tablet on the street.
What a great place to come from has lots of good memories for me. so if anyone remember the name Janmckay get intouch.
I now live in the states and been here long time 48 years. But I still enjoy talking to folk from the old place Springburn and Balornock where my mom and dad moved to when I was 12 years old.
I went to St Aloysuis RC school and then onto the Big Rock untill 1954.
I loved to visit the Library and check out all the old pictures. I hear that its not the same anymore they took all the old pictures and they have them stored some other place.
I remember the days when our school had the classes all lined up and we marched to the train station to board a train to some seacoast place for the day it was out once a year outing.
I remember having a large bow in my hair and it was bright pink all the classes had different colors. We had our Tin cups with us and we got handed a box lunch oh they were the days I really enjoyed those days.
So let me hear from anyone that might remember me.
Glaswgn@aol.com please say who you are.. as I don't open lots of emails.
But Springburn is still in my heart.
Cheers hope to hear from some of you soon...Jan