February 2010

[TheGorbalsAdmin]

When I was in my teens in the 50's, there was two girls who used to walk up and down Cumberland Street. One had bonde hair the other jet black - we called them black and white. One was Helen McTigue from Lawmoor Street...does anybody remember them and what became of them? Eddie.
Submitted by: Eddie
Alness, Scotland
28/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Rest in Peace Melvin Bernstein!
Submitted by: Auld Biddy
28/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hi Julie. Some of the Gorbals High rise have been demoilished, two from the Caledonia Road site. Stirlingfaulds Place was demolished 2009,2008. Sandiefield is being emptied, its riddled with dampness, Norfolk Court at Gorbals Cross has one building emptied and the demolition men have taken it over, the other building is still in use but it has a very short lifespan. Riverside (Waddell Court) will be the only high rise in the Gorbals apart from the remaining two at Caledonia Road. Bye for now, Norrie.
Submitted by: Norman McNamee
Glasgow, Scotland
28/02/10
Email: norman_mcnamee@hotmail.com

Hi J. Bagen. The Railway Club is no more, its a pub now "Liptons" owned by local business man Willie Haughey. Bye for now, Norrie.
Submitted by: Norman McNamee
Glasgow, Scotland
28/02/10
Email: norman_mcnamee@hotmail.com

Hi Billy. I didn't know Melvin but did read his posts. Another link to Gorbals past has gone. Learn from the older folk or the Gorbals heritage and stories will be gone forever. RIP Melvin. Norrie.
Submitted by: Norman McNamee
Glasgow, Scotland
28/02/10
Email: norman_mcnamee@hotmail.com

It is sad to hear of Melvin Bernstein's passing. It's always sad to hear news of another regular Gorbals website writer passing. I enjoyed Melvin's letter's. The Railway Club in Pollokshaws Road/Cathcart Road has now closed. For many years it was called Liptons Club. I had many many good nights in there. A sign went up last year saying it was opening as an Irish Club, but nothing came of it. It's a shame because it was always busy, with weddings, funerals, hen nights, stag nights, birthday party's etc. It's good to see the Gorbals site up and running again, the webmaster does a terrific job keeping it going. Agnes.
Submitted by: Agnes
Glasgow, Scotland
27/02/10
Email: agnesherrity@hotmail.co.uk

To Billy Malcolm - It was so sad to see your posting about the death of Melvin Bernstein, and of your loss of a friend you liked and admired. I never knew or met him but I did get a real sense of him being a gentleman in all senses of the word. You mentioned the spirit of the man and his many kindnesses. It's that very same memory of the spirit of good kind, hardworking folk that lives on with me and the many others who visit their friends on this website. Rita.
Submitted by: Rita Moffat
Glasgow, Scotland
27/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

To the Webmaster - Sorry if I was having a moan at the length of time between postings - I should have also mentioned how grateful I and other folk are for this website. You keep our dreams and memories alive. It was just great to see 10 Quid back - the guy is something else. If you have kept up to speed in all his health scares through the years in this website, it's almost unbelieveable that he has survived it all. Good luck to him and wee Betty. Clyde Built to the last as they used to say and he lives up to that! Rita.
Submitted by: Rita Moffat
Glasgow, Scotland
27/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hi, I'm from 331 Lawmoor Street in the 40's. Just wondering....did they sell toilet paper in those days? In our stair head toilet there was just old newspapers and St. Francis' toilets had none either. At least I never saw any. Mick.
Submitted by: Mick Gallagher
Glasgow, Scotland
27/02/10
Email: dumpingran@hotmail.com

Hi Folks. I would be most grateful if anyone has any old photos of Gorbals (Caledonia Road or thereabouts) 1940's or later. I used to live in Caledonia Road when I was born and miss those old memories. Send me an email with pics if possible or get in touch to arrange. Love to all Gorbals, Love Andrea.
Submitted by: Andrea Paterson
Glasgow, Scotland
27/02/10
Email: andi48@btinternet.com

Several answers to give. As I predicted an old Gorbalonian corrected me. The market was in Commercial Road not Lane - my informant told me this was a common mistake made by young people (I'm 62). Also, to Pat McGee - the pub now called The Brazen Head used to be The Granite City. As for Willie Long I remember him as quite a good footballer when he played for St Luke's Boys Guild. My cousin Tommy Daly, sadly no longer with us, helped run the Guild along with Billy Wallace, also no longer with us. I better stop as this is turning into an obituary, anyway cheers.
Submitted by: Frank(Wee Pammy) Young
Glasgow, Scotland
27/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

F.A.O. Julie from Bolton, Lancs. Is your maiden name Pellam or Pelham? I think I remember you from Oatlands School. I lived in Gilmour Street next to the Rosebank dairy shop. I haven't been back to the area for over 30 years, so can't comment on any new changes. Bye.
Submitted by: Mary Borland 
Glasgow, Scotland
27/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

The message from Mr. Malcolm on the sudden death of Mr.M.Bernstein was the saddest anecdote I've read on this forum. I enjoyed Melvin's postings/replies during the last few years. He'll be missed on this forum. RIP Mr.Bernstein.
Submitted by: Pat
London, England
26/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

F.A.O. JJ. Yes, Shawfield Stadium is, in fact, still going strong. Some of my family still work there.
Submitted by: Josephine Stuksis
Glasgow, Scotland
26/02/10
Email: josephine.stuksis@btopenworld.com

F.A.O. Billy Malcolm. Sorry to hear of Melvin Bernstein's passing. I enjoyed his contributions in here over the years. I hope Melvin and his wife are now reunited and at peace. Pat Mooney
Submitted by: Pat Mooney
Not Supplied
26/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

F.A.O. Billy Malcolm. May I pass on my sincere condolances to you and Melvin Bernstein's family. He was a good Gorbals man, although me and Melvin had a wee issue about my posts (ie my writings) but I had a good laugh and I am sure Melvin did as well. Funny thing though, I was just thinking about Melvin today (Friday 26th February), wondering about all the posts from the last couple of weeks (read webmasters reasons) then Beggorra you post the sad message on the site. "Waal God's instance, but I will thank you Billy fer postin the message and lettin aw the good gorbals folk know aboot OOR sad loss, thanx the Jannie...may ur God b with u.x"
Submitted by: Jim the Jannie
Glasgow, Scotland
26/02/10
Email: jimthejannie@btinternet.com

I see Easter eggs are on the shelves already....can anyone remenber FRANK HILLSIDES sweety shop in Bedford Street? We used to look at all the lovely Easter eggs and sweets in the window. His windows were always great ...and I used to go to Geoff Shaw's Club with my pals for a record session and show off our moves with the lads. Anyone remember him .....your righe about some of the old crowd going missing off the site, so let's start getting back because I miss reading about them and having a laugh....cheers, Ann
Submitted by: Ann Davies (Kerr)
England
26/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hello there. I was born in Nicholson Street, Glasgow on the 15th July 1953. Can anyone tell me if there was a whisky factory there? Also, when I have previously been to Nicholson Street in 2007, I walked from the Cathedral side over the suspension bridge, come out, turned left then right and there is just a wee sign saying Nicholson Street on a house a few doors from a closed pub. Also, can anyone (ex-worker or driver from Templetons) tell me any of their memories from this company, particularly the vehicles that they used from 1950-1983. If you can assist me please e-mail me. That way, I get the message directly, otherwise I would have to look through all these pages on different days. Regards Peter Coyle.
Submitted by: Peter Coyle
reading, England
26/02/10
Email: petcoy1963@yahoo.co.uk

Does anyone remember the Cox family that lived at Piccadilli Street, Anderson in 1930 and 1940? The parents names were Agnes and Francis, the children were Eric, Charles, James, Frank, Tony and Eleanor. They later moved to the Oatlands. Thank you.
Submitted by: Stephanie Cox
Glasgow, Scotland
25/02/10
Email: stephanie_cox@hotmail.co.uk

This week was one of the saddest of my life - an old friend of mine passed away. He may have been a friend to some of you readers too. I went to school with Melvin Bernstein at Abbotsford Place. Through this site we met up again. Melvin never quite got over his wife's death, but he was still a very motivated person. He raised lots of money for under privileged children, and when I asked why he spent most of his life helping others he would say simply, "I am a Gorbals man and I was brought up by the best folk in the world - that's where I get my spirit from." He worshipped the Gorbals and its folk. Sadly he passed away last Tuesday evening I will miss my friend greatly. I got to know a true gentleman. He loved writing in here - he told me he loved the patter from Jim the Janie and folk like him. He would often shed a tear talking about his Gorbals people, so for those who knew and corresponded, I hope you will join me in saying goodbye to Melvin. Posted by Billy Malcom.
Submitted by: Billy Malcom
Glasgow, Scotland
25/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

My grandfather, Robert Cameron, and his siblings were born in Crookston Street, Gorbals in the early part of the last century. I am looking for the descendants of his brother Hugh. Hugh Cameron was born in July of 1914 and married a lady named Helen. As far as my aunt and father can remember, they had 2 children: Helen and Robert. My hope is that somebody knows what happened to them! Did they marry, have children, leave the area? If anyone has any information whatsoever, please, PLEASE contact me. None of my family has ever had contact with my grandfather's relatives in Scotland and, as my grandfather has sadly passed away, this is the only way I can think of to (hopefully) discover more about the Cameron side of the family.
Submitted by: Darren Cameron
Bristol, England
23/02/10
Email: alucard.maroon@gmail.com

Still looking for Kathleen Madden from Hospital Street in the early 50's. Anyone remember her? Thanks.
Submitted by: Susan
Seattle, USA
23/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

FAO Kevin Kilcoyne. Hi and thank you for responding to my dad's message. Any information regarding the whereabouts of his friend Pat Heaney would be gratefully appreciated Thanks.
Submitted by: James Smyth
Glasgow, Scotland
21/02/10
Email: tracy.doc@hotmail.co.uk

Rita, Denis and all other contributers - apologies for the delay with recent postings but it was down to technical difficulties that were outwith our control. All sorted now and thanks to all for your continued support.
Submitted by: WEBMASTER

Hi everyone. Where have the favourites of Gorbals Anecdotes gone? Is it just me but we seem to be missing folk. Amelia, 10 Quid,(though thankfully we have wee Betty) DAM and all the other wonderful folk that I looked forward to seeing postings from. Even the wee arguements and occasional skirmishes were enoyable. Seems that it takes longer for postings to be published - you kinda lose the strands of communication. Maybe folk are just giving up because of this?? Ho hum - nothing remains the same. Cheers Rita
Submitted by: Rita Moffat
Glasgow, Scotland
21/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Just wondering if the Railway Club Bar at the junction of Pollokshaws Road/Cathcart Road is still in existence? My late father-in-law used the Club in the early 70's. I lived temporarily in Cumberland Street for 2 years between 1972-74 and remember using this Club for a Sunday lunchtime drink as licenced premises were not allowed to operate on a Sunday!!
Submitted by: J.Bagan
London, England
21/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Apologies, but I'm a young 34-years old, and don't remember much about the old Gorbals. I was born and raised in the now demolished Hutchie E Housing Complex. Our family home overlooked Crown Street near to Caledonia Road. I remember it was damp and our corridors were poorly lit. Empty homes lay all around us. Talk about history repeating itself? As a youngster, I also remember private security guards patrolling the walkways and stairs in the Hutchie E Blocks. I was only 7 years old then. We were rehoused in 1983 when I was 8 years old. It's strange to go back and see absolutely nothing exists of my place of birth 1975.
Submitted by: Kenny Donnelly Jnr.
Glasgow, Scotland
19/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

In reply to Dougie regarding the family from Mathieson Street, a few members of that particular brood still reside in Castlemilk.
Submitted by: Anonymous
Glasgow, Scotland
18/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

My first message!!!! Noticed lots of older contributors mentioning their favourite part of the Gorbals. The haunt I loved most was the top end of Moffat Street, Orchard Street, Gilmour Street and Oregon Street. All sadly wiped off the map nearly 50-years ago. I also attended Oatlands School 1957-62 before my family moved South in 1963. Are those monstrous high-rise flats still there? [Julie].
Submitted by: Julie
bolton, England
18/02/10
Email: GEORGE.DUNCAN@SKY.COM

Does anyone have information on my grandfather, James Boyle who was a bookie? He spent time in London and died at Ayr racecourse in 1954.
Submitted by: George Duncan
Glasgow, Scotland
18/02/10
Email: GEORGE.DUNCAN@SKY.COM

Jack Richmond - what was your family's name in Castlemilk and where did they live? I moved there in 1967 and knew lots of people.
Submitted by: Helen Martin
East Kilbride, Scotland
18/02/10
Email: helenmartin11@fsmail.net

Wee Betty - hello how are you? George was my Dad and sadly has passed away. Although my mum married Tommy, George was my Dad. Can't believe you knew him. I miss him so much....he did spend lots of time inside and I wish we would have had more time together. I met my brother George through this site and have had emails from our other relatives - it's great. I have read all ten quids stories but did not know he was related to me! Hope he is doing well and in good health. So many of my family have passed away it's good to know you are out ther. Everyone says I look like my dad. You must have so much you can tell me if you were brought up together. Could you email me some photos if you have them? Do you remember my dad had a pony'n trap? That was before my time but I have heard stories about it. Did you know his cousin Stewart? They were always together, inside and out. George is so like my dad - looks,the way he talks, the way he walks. I have one daughter - tried for years - had lots of miscarriages then got Rebecca Georgette when I was 39. She is now 10 and beautiful. I cant wait to hear from you. It's great to find family and I would love some day to meet you and 10 quid. Whats the story with Jimmy Boyle?
Submitted by: Helen Martin
East Kilbride, Scotland
18/02/10
Email: helenmartin11@fsmail.net

FAO Dougie - Glasgow re. the Pillans family - would that be Rab Pillans who went to Bonnies school? Last I heard he was driving a taxi in the south side.
Submitted by: Andy
Glasgow, Scotland
16/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

FAO Mark Thompson - My first house when I got married in 1956 was a wee low down single end up 398 Lawmoor Street. Don't know if you can remember Peggy Daly? She stayed in the shop house and Katie Purdon and the Tierneys (mothers name was Hannah). Also Esther Cunningham and Isa McCandlish. I moved from there along to the top end of Moffat Street (438). Got a room and Kitchen and then came up to Castlemilk on 1962 where I still stay. Amelia.
Submitted by: Amelia McKinlay nee Welsh 
Glasgow, Scotland
16/02/10
Email: ameliamckinlay@msn.com

FAO Frank Young - you are spot on about the market in Commercial Road but wrong saying it was Commercial Lane - it is Commercial Road. The reason I know is I have a photo of Cumberland Street taken from Cumberland Street looking onto Frank Stewart the butchers shop and the chemist. It is in one of the Gorbals books and you can see the street sign where the market was. Also my mother was born in the wee building facing the kippering work and on her birth lines it is Commercial Road but people called it a lane because it was all cobbled. Someone on the site said it was on Errol Street but they are wrong because at the bottom of Errol Street was a stable and Frank Stewart the butchers. Frank Stewart also had a building on the opposite side of the road (the uneven numbers) and it was next to the kippering works. Amelia.
Submitted by: Amelia McKinlay nee Welsh 
Glasgow, Scotland
16/02/10
Email: ameliamckinlay@msn.com

Hi. J'etais un etudiant habitant dans Gorbals 1980-81. J'ai partage l'appartment dans la place de la 45 Reine-Elizabeth. J'aime ce site Web de Gorbals! x x x [Translation: Hi. I lived in the gorbals as a student in 1980-81. I shared a flat at 45 Queen Elizabeth Square. I love the Gorbals website! x x x]
Submitted by: Gabriellia
Paris, France
16/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hi Mona. Just read your response to my e-mail about Michael Reilly. I see you are living in the States as I am. I live In California - where do you live? You can e-mail me If you like. I also was a teenager and new he was a lot older but what a crush I had on him even before I was in my teens. Come to think of it, he was the oldest of three brothers. Such memories my girlfriends and I had.
Submitted by: Pat Lynch
LA, USA
16/02/10
Email: glasgopati@aol.com

Hi Auld Malky - just remembered, the Hayfield pub, I was wrong. It's the Pig and Whistle on Hayfield and McNeil Street. It's still there. Bye for now Norrie.
Submitted by: Norman McNamee
Glasgow, Scotland
15/02/10
Email: norman_mcnamee@hotmail.com

I'm originally from Oxford Street, as were my late parents. So it was with sadness to hear that the Glaswegian Pub [formerly Stevenson-Taylor] finally closed it's doors several weeks ago. Not many pubs left in the Bridge Street area now. My father and grandfather used that pub most of their working lives. My last visit to the Glaswegian was over 6-years ago, and it was as if I've never left the Gorbals all those years ago. Another wee piece of licenced history disappeared from a by-gone area.
Submitted by: R.Mack
Gourock, Scotland
15/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Can anyone recall where Pelosi's fish and chip shop was situated? I'm sure it was in Rutherglen Road, Oatlands G5. Anybody remember young Mario who served behind the counter?
Submitted by: Luigi
Paisley, Scotland
14/02/10
Email: azzuri55@blueyonder.com

F.A.O. David Kean of Fenwick Ayrshire - just going through old postings on Gorbals Live and saw a message from you. Were you any relation to the Keans who lived in a single end in 212 Thistle Street? I remember Mrs Kean who was slightly disabled (due to polio I think) and there was Billy Priscilla Thomas and May. Priscilla was also known as Pinnochio - I don't know why because she had a very small nose maybe somebody thought that was funny. Mrs Kean used to make aprons for Imries the bakers round in Cumberland Street, next to the Havana Bar. She made them from flour sacks given to her by said bakers. Cheers, Nan Cameron.
Submitted by: Nan Cameron
Glasgow, Scotland
14/02/10
Email: partickbelle@hotmail.co.uk

Hi Jack Richmond. Don't despair, there are web sites who post photos of the Gorbals for the old days and how it is now. Email me and I will give you details. Bye for now, Norrie
Submitted by: Norman McNamee
Glasgow, Scotland
14/02/10
Email: norman_mcnamee@hotmail.com

FAO Don Paton - thanks for the information on the Dewar family. My uncle ran the ice cream van. His name was Denny and his wife Cathy. They had 5 girls and 1 boy - their parents died abroad.
Submitted by: Not Supplied
Glasgow, Scotland
14/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

To Auld Malky from the Channel Islands about the Govanhill Bar - I went about there in the 70's. Hughie Gallagher was the owner, sadly now deceased for many years. Jimmy Mooney and Mary (his wife) worked there for many years - sadly he died in 2009. You may have been too young to take part but it was a great pub for dominos - 2 or 3 tables going every night. Sadly all the old pubs in the Gorbals have long gone with the exception of the one under the railway bridge at corner of Cumberland Street and Cathcart Road. I forget the original name but it's now called The Brazen Head. Hope this jogs your memory Pat.
Submitted by: Pat McGee
Glasgow, Scotland
14/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hi, anyone out there remember my Grannies brothers, Hughie and Danny Lynch? Both died when I was young (1970s) and I wondered what they were like.
Submitted by: Mark G
Greenock, Scotland
13/02/10
Email: Speak2Marky@googlemail.com k

Anyone remember my granda Ginger Wilson who was the postman and never out the Moy Bar, both in Florence Street? My dad was Andy Wilson with brothers Johnny, still in Gorbals, Robert who emigrated and passed away in Canada,and Joseph who died in Egypt with the army in the 50's.
Submitted by: Joe Wilson
Blackburn, Scotland
12/02/10
Email: jwils452002@yahoo.co.uk

To Frank Young - you're right about the market in Commercial Lane. My mate and our wives had a stall there selling wall plaques, table lamps and jewellery. We all lived at 247 Lawmoor Street (the high back).
Submitted by: Norrie McDonald
Cumbernauld, Scotland
11/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hello, this is a message for Kevin Kilcoyne with regards to the whereabouts of Pat Heaney. I would be grateful for any information for my dad. Thanks for getting back to us.
Submitted by: Jimmy Smyth 
Glasgow, Scotland
11/02/10
Email: jamespsmyth@hotmail.com

We are trying to collate as much information about the Saint Francis Pipe Band as possible for a book. Any photographs, names, dates, cine film about Saint Francis Pipe Band would be greatly appreciated. You can visit our site at www.saintfrancispipeband.com. The band was founded in 1926 and is still an active busy organisation. Former members or relatives or friends let us know what you know. Fill in the gaps in the bands esteemed history. Any fragments or memorabilia. Cheers.
Submitted by: Anthony O'Doibhailein
Glasgow, Scotland
11/02/10
Email: anthony@saintfrancispipeband.com

Dougie, the Pillans boys are still in Castlemilk. What's your surname and I'll let them know you are asking for them?
Submitted by: Joe
Glasgow, Scotland
10/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hi Auld Malky - Govanhill Bar is long gone...the only old bars that are left are The Granite (I forget it's new name), Stevie Tailors (Glaswegian, now closed), the Laurieston, Soo Wester, Sharkeys, which may have been Cleland Bar. Not sure if the Hayfield is an original bar. I have a photo of the Govanhill Bar also. Send me your email address and I will send you a photo. Bye for now, Norrie
Submitted by: Norman McNamee 
Glasgow, Scotland
10/02/10
Email: norman_mcnamee@hotmail.com

FAO Jack Richmond. You should google a site called Urban Glasgow. You will find old photos of Kidston Street, and indeed most Gorbals streets.
Submitted by: Rose Doyle
Donegal, Ireland
10/02/10
Email: rosedoyle1@hotmail.com

Hi folks, born At 15 Turnlaw Street in 1946, went to St. Bonaventures Primary and then Holyrod. I have a brother George nicknamed Shorty and two sisters, Josie And Margaret. Sadly, Josie passed away in 2008. Would like to hear from anyone that knew my family. I would pass on any messages to my sister and brother.
Submitted by: William Long
Glasgow, Scotland
10/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

The memory I have of the Commercial Lane Paddys Market is seeing people trying on second hand (or should it be second mouth) false teeth.
Submitted by: Jim Paterson
Leeds, England
10/02/10
Email: Not Suppliedk

Auld Malky - my abode was straight across from the Govanhill Bar at top end of Thistle Street. 321, the year 1958. I had an Armstrong Sidley, aluminium body, wood panelling and leather upholstery...pre-select gearbox. The guy who lived above the pub was a real idiot. He poured powdered cement in the radiator of my car. He had a hard job explaining to the cops how he fell into bags of cement! [his family had called them!] In those days, we sorted out our own problems like the Friday and Saturday night fights at the Govanhill Bar. The heavyweight fighting the lightweight, the heavyweight being a woman. People would lift their Windows, sit on a chair and lean on a cushion and cheer them on. A little 6 stone guy would either get cheered or jeered depending on the beating he was getting. A guy nearly getting killed by a gang as he had his head kicked against Haynes roller door the night a guy again got thrown through my window with his eyebrows cut off. I picked him up and threw him back out and closed the wooden shutters on the house Windows with a steel bar. I lived there a month I was required by the law to emigrate back to Lawmoor Street. Police are funny people because the station at Lawmoor Street was a quiet place...well come on now! 10 quid
Submitted by: 10 Quid
Australia
10/02/10
Email: Not Suppliedk

Hello, I am trying to find information on an "accident" that my dad had in 1963. I have seen some of the newspaper stories from the time but I would love to hear from anyone that actually remembers it. As far as I can gather, a mentally unstable woman gathered up 6 or 7 wee kids and threw them one by one from her tenament window. She was later sent to Carstairs. This happened in the Hutchestontown area (I don't even know if that's classed as Gorbals). As I say, it was 1963, my dad's name is Danny McNeill, his parents are Dennis and Margaret McNeill. It would mean a great deal if anyone can help me out. Kind Regards Kirsty
Submitted by: Kirsty
East Kilbride, Scotland
10/02/10
Email: kirstyjamieson@hotmail.co.uk

For Carol McL. - I think my gran lived in the same building you mention. I'm sure it was No.5 Cathcart Road, a few yards along from the Granite City pub. I'm sure your friend lived on the ground floor. She had an older brother who was well known in the Gorbals. My gran was Mary Thomson.
Submitted by: Jean Merrick nee Thomson
Glasgow, Scotland
09/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

So disappointing to see another Laurieston landmark rendered obsolete - The Glaswegian Bar. With the Coliseum now raised to the ground, Eglinton Street is truly a ghost from the past.
Submitted by: Saturday Sam
Glasgow, Scotland
09/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

To OLD TIMER - I was born and bred in 400 Ballater Street. My granny, aunties etc. lived right 'roon the corner an up the stairs' in Mathieson Street. {Gaughans/Murphy} Our top flat windows looked over both Mathieson and Ballater Street. Born in 1948, I went to St. Luke's school, leaving to go to a Secondary School {St. Bernards- later Bellarmine] in Pollok. Friends were Rosemary Duffy, Sandra McMahon and Mary McCafferty amongst others. Although I came from a large family, I remember spending a lot of solitary time playing ball against the wall and roler skating. I also remember playing 'wallies' with broken crockery and 'fitba' in the street with the boys, hide and seek, skipping, swinging on the washing posts. My granny used to get up every morning down the 3 flights of Mathieson Street. stairs and up ours to wake my dad for work. She was 66 when I was born so she must have been in her 70s if I can remember. As I get older and look towards retirement in my nice comfortable seaside bugalow(!) in a sunny, quiet part of England, I stand in awe at the women of the Gorbals who raised us. They had hard lives yet we never knew we were poor. In fact we were brought up to think of the chilfren who had less. I remember family parties, Glasgoe Green, visits to the 'splashy shore' and great ays out with the Brownies on double deckers to the seaside - and everybody expected a present brought back! I've represented Scotland in many different countries all over the world and am proud to be a Gorbals kid. Our comunity looked after us and our parents. The descendent of one of them is now CEO of Fremantle Media of the Americas. {Works with Simon Cowell among others] Howzat! Granny would approve but warn him not 'Tae let it gi tae his heid'. I wish I had really appreciated them when they were still with us.
Submitted by: Not Supplied
09/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

For Wee Blether - it's the same person, Margret and I were good pals at school. My happy memories were in Errol Street with Margret and her mum Tilly and dad Bill. Thanks Wee Blether - great times. Anne Hannon McKnight.
Submitted by: Anne Hannon
London, England
09/02/10
Email: annehannon@btinternet.com

Charlie, got some more pub names: The Hihi, Star Bar in Govanhill, The Cleland Bar, The Phoenix, Pig & Whistle Waverly, Ben Clure and Granite City. Some might have changed name over the years but someone might know old pub names. My dad told me of the old pubs in the Caley Crown Street area. That is some of them - can't think of any more at moment but try that website I said about. My dad used to go to Shawfield Stadium and Third Lanark - ground gone now and don't know if Shawfield is still standing. Been a number of years since I was there - got lost in Crown Street the last time I was there! What a change. The area looks good though - I grew up in tenements then - the Hutchie blocks. Hope this helps you.
Submitted by: JJ
Isle of Wight, England
09/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Sorry got cut short further down Caley Road. There was the wee mill pub over bridge in Dalmarnock - was the shawfield bar - don't remember any more but if I do, will send anecdote. The dates are from middle 70s to 1990. Have a look at the website "Old Glasgow Pubs".
Submitted by: JJ
Isle of Wight, England
09/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Ronnie Fisher! I remember you and your family well, especially your mother, Emmy, and grandmother Jeanie. Can also remember playing rounders and kick-the-can. My brother was Charlie Stewart who passed away 25-years ago in London. Nice to know your alive and kicking. I also knew your cousin Joesy very well when I previously lived in Castlemilk. I'm afraid I haven't set foot in the Gorbals since 1980, and indeed, wouldn't know or recognise much of it. Hope life has been good to you. Bye!
Submitted by: Val Stewart
Not Supplied
09/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Always hoping to find out about the Pillens boys from Mathieson Street late 50s to early 60s. They moved to Govanhill, then Castlemilk early 70s.
Submitted by: Dougie
Glasgow, Scotland
09/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Spare a thought for some of us ex-Gorbals residents who have nothing to find or look at regarding nostalgia. I was brought up in Kidston Street and attended Camden Street school. It was a busy little area hemmed in by Caledonia Road and a busy Crown Street. Now it's completely gone and very difficult to pinpoint certain landmarks, except the necropolis!! My family moved to Castlemilk mid 60's, but I'll never forget the Kidston Street area.
Submitted by: Jack Richmond
East Kilbride, Scotland
08/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

G'day - I have a large aching gap in my family history. My mum Agnes Graham was born in 1920 and lived at 143 Adelphi Street. She had a half brother James and and half sister Tina. Her mother's name was Elizabeth and they may have owned/run a fruit and veg shop at some time. I think she also had a cousin/ married name Chrissy Boyle? Any information greatly appreciated. Oh... Mum may have worked at Swan Vestas during the war.
Submitted by: Bob Caves
Bermagui, Australia
08/02/10
Email: bermibob@hotmail.com

Hi Mrs. Stewart. About your dream - the market was indeed in Errol Street up from St. Francis Chapel. We went there regularly with my mother to see what we could pick up in the way of clothes.
Submitted by: Jean Fairie
Melbourne, Australia
08/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

I have posted this message time and time again. Keep hoping someone out there will remember. Does anyone remember Robert Macfarlane (I think from Glasgow area) or Elizabeth Ferries from Aberdeen. She lived at 13 Thistle Street Glasgow and was a munition worker. Robert may have died young (in his twenties). They were born in the 1920s. Please ask your family members.
Submitted by: Jackie
Aberdeen, Scotland
07/02/10
Email: jackiemclaughlan@hotmail.com

Anyone help me trying to locate Jane Nelson nee. Cryans related to Martin Cryans who lives in the Castlemilk area?
Submitted by: Patrick Cryans
Rayleigh, England
07/02/10
Email: patrickfrancis@talktalk.net

Hey Pat Lynch, I lived in Portugal Street and as a kid/teenager I had a schoolgirl crush on Michael Reilly. He was a bit too old for me but I still remember going into "Lena's" for apples and oranges and the wonderful smell of the fruit as I entered. I don't have a lot of memories of the Gorbals - they're fading as I get older - but walking in the always open door of "Lena's" and seeing this handsome guy is one of them. Reading your post brought it all back. I think he had another sibling, but I don't remember his name.
Submitted by: Mona Foster
USA
07/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Hi, does anyone remember the Boyle family from Laidlaw Street? They lived on the ground floor flat opposite the wee shop, sold great rolls and sausage.
Submitted by: Liz
Glasgow, Scotland
05/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

My dad was born at Waddell Street in 1939. His name was Hugh Walsh, his father was also called Hugh Walsh. Does anyone have any info on Waddell Street, or does anyone know of Hugh Walsh who lived there in the 1930s? Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Submitted by: Karen
Newcastle, England
05/02/10
Email: karenfalcus@yahoo.co.uk

FAO Old Timer - Well said! Why would anyone WANT to claim to be from the Gorbals if they weren't? Cheers, Pat
Submitted by: Pat Mooney
Glasgow, Scotland
05/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

My dad's sister was Peggy Neill from 69 Surrey Street.
Submitted by: James Neill
Glasgow, Scotland
05/02/10
Email: jimmyneill59@hotmail.co.uk

With reference to Cathy Dewar's inquiry about the Dewar family. I lived in Garthamlock for 10 years and there was a family of Dewars who resided at 41 Binns Road. The father was John, I cannot recollect the mother's name, however, I think she was of German extraction. My memory is not great but I think one son was called Ian.
Submitted by: Don Paton
Wishaw, Scotland
05/02/10
Email: donaldpaton@yahoo.com

It appears we have a Lawmoor Street revival. Loads of name dropping but no replies!! I lived 2 floors above the Welcome Inn Pub in Lawmoor Street at the corner of Caledonia Road. Tough times in a cramped 2 bedroom flat. I attended Bogies Secondary at Craigie Street, Strathbungo, then when I turned 15, my family were rehoused in nearby Cathcart. Difficult trying to pinpoint certain area's in the New Gorbals. I enjoy reading about people from The Lawmoor Street vicinity. Any more out there?
Submitted by: Mark Thompson
Glasgow, Scotland
05/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

I was born at 257 Lawmoor, next to Eddie Smyth's boozer, my mother was Sarah Gunn, granny Jeannie Gunn, cousins Cathie, Jimmy and Josie. Jimmy passed away last October. Ronnie Fisher
Submitted by: Ronald Fisher
Glasgow, Scotland
05/02/10
Email: ronnief1946@yahoo.com

Hi, I'm Cathie Dewars uncle, my mother and Cathie Gunns mother were sisters, Jane, Emmy. Our cousin Jimmy Gunn passed away in october. I asked Cathy did she know N. Macdonald?
Submitted by: Ronnie Fisher
Glasgow, Scotland
04/02/10
Email: ronnief1946@yahoo.com

Hello Eddie. Thanks for that information. I do hope you and your family are doing well. Is your mum Gerti still with us? I am recovering from a stroke which I took just before Christmas, but things are looking on the up for me. Take care and keep in touch. Ian.
Submitted by: Ian Thomson
Bannockburn, Scotland
04/02/10
Email: thomsonsweep@aol.com

I was shocked to hear it was Willie Carroll who was killed in the tragic fire in Caledonia Road on Wednesday 3rd February. Willie was a true Gorbals man in every sense - another character who has departed. God bless - rest in peace.
Submitted by: Garngad Bhoy
Glasgow, Scotland
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

To Helen Martin - nice to hear you found and talked to George. Best wishes Bob, sent you an e-mail.
Submitted by: Bob Kidd
Bristol, England
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

To Charlie Croft Jnr. - there is a website called old Glasgow pubs which lets you know of the location and who owned them. It is a good site to visit. I came from Caledonia Road. Hope this helps you.
Submitted by: JJ
Isle of Wight, England
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Helen Martin - Wee Betty here. Read your posting - the George that I knew was most likely your uncle. If alive, he would be 74 and we were brought up like brother and sister. He went to the HLI to do National service and I left to Australia with 10 quid. Jimmy Boyle's wife Elizabeth died young. He spent a lot of time inside so I think the brother you must have found was the son of Tommy Kidd, son of my aunt Nellie. By the way, Partick Cryans writing on the site is my cousin too and there was lots of fun out here in Australia. Patrick Cryans left the Gorbals in 1964. Paddy and his mum Bella still had the Barras: lots of photos of the kidds and the Cryans family - one special one of 10 quids uncle Judy in the pub with Paddy. Judy was in the movie "sense of freedom" - true story of Jimmy Boyle my arse! 10 quid said he will take over from now on doing the right thing. I said "getting your own computer then!" wee Betty?
Submitted by: Wee Betty
Glasgow, Scotland
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

To Mrs Stewart in Surrey. The market you speak of was, I think, in Commercial Lane, so it was just up from Errol Street. The market was facing the back end of Lawmoor Street police office if my memory serves me correctly. Of course, I may be getting mixed up - if I'm wrong no doubt some old Gorbalonian will soon put me right. Cheers.
Submitted by: Frank Young 
Glasgow, Scotland
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Does anyone out there know the whereabouts of Jim Brown who lived in fauldhouse Street just across from the steamie then he went to live in Castlemilk?
Submitted by: Robert McCurley
Guernsey, Channel Islands
03/02/10
Email: weejimmy81@hotmail.com

I lived in the Cathcart Road tenement at the railway bridge and pub near Gorbals Street. My friend was Bridie Devine. Anyone remember us from the very early 70's?
Submitted by: Carol McLauchlan
Clydebank, Scotland
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

I left the Gorbals way back in 1973 when I was only 24-years old. Lived in London for a few years before settling in the Channel Islands. Unfortunately, most of my family members have passed away. I always remembered the good times in the Govanhill Bar at top end of Thistle Street. My aunt once lived in the tenements above that pub. I often wonder if the Govanhill Bar still exists? Somehow I don't think it does. Can anyone shed any light on a once busy popular pub?
Submitted by: Auld Malky
Channel Islands
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Haven't left a message on the site for quite some time. Anyone out there who lived in the Mathieson Street/Adelphi Street area? I was born in 1946 and lived at 16 Mathieson Street; went to St. Lukes in 1952. Contemporaries were: Eddie McQueen, James McEwan, Billy Innes, Jim Callaghan - the Healeys, Hawthorns, McCaffertys, Crossans and Lawlors. Would love to hear from anyone with any recollections of those times and locals. PS If Claire the undergraduate student cares to contact me at the email address given I would be delighted to help. Don Paton
Submitted by: Don Paton
Wishaw, Scotland
03/02/10
Email: donaldpaton@yahoo.com

I'm another ex-Lawmoor Street resident, and clearly remember a man who sold Whelks and Mussels etc. from a cart outside Smyths Bar in Cumberland Street. A lot of people from Lawmoor Street ended up in Castlemilk.
Submitted by: Viollet
Glasgow, Scotland
03/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

FAO Anne Hannon. Yes, I'm sure we are talking about the same Margaret McCallum. Her mum was called Tilly and her dad Bill. I think they moved from Errol Street to Roseburry Street in Oatlands. I met her when I worked at Montieth's about 1963/64. we became good friends and had a mad time working together. She married a guy called John Hewitt and had two daughter's - I think they lived somewhere near Queen Elizabeth Square in the Gorbals, but as usual, both of us lost touch when we got married. (happy times) Wee Blether.
Submitted by: Wee Blether
02/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

I would like to find my family the Dewars. Some were from Pollok and Garthamlock, some moved abroad a good few years ago.
Submitted by: Cathy Dewar
Glasgow, Scotland
02/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Short note for Marion Berry - I'm hoping you are the Marion Berry who went to St. Francis Guild. I came from Moffat Street and went to St. Francis and then Holyrood.....came to Canada in 1963.
Submitted by: Maureen McEwan
Brampton, Canada
02/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

To John from Medford USA. Why would anyone claim to be from the Gorbals if they were not? They don't! Go back and read the anecdotes and replies very carefully! Lawmoor Street was one of the longest and most overcrowded streets in the Gorbals. Hundreds of families were born and bred in that particular street. People who read and contribute to this fabulous website are ONLY trying to trace friends or relatives, or being nostalgic to the area they once lived in. What's your experience of the old Gorbals?
Submitted by: Old Timer
Glasgow, Scotland
01/02/10
Email: Not Supplied

Thanks to this site, I have found and met my brother George for the first time. It is fantastic! I believe I also have an aunt Wee Betty in Oz. I think I have a pic of your mum Lizzie and my gran at the Barras - if I can find it I will get it to you. Also to Bob Kidd - yes we are cousins nice to hear from you. The best Christmas present ever was finding my brother.
Submitted by: Helen Martin
East Kilbride, Scotland
01/02/10
Email: helenmartin11@fsmail.net