Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust would like to invite you to take a tour of the completed Maryhill Burgh Halls and see what we’ve spent the last few years working towards, and see what facilities are available.
Parts of the building aren’t open to the public on a daily basis, but we are keen to give people a chance to get in for a proper look around.
We’re running guided tours of the entire building - these are completely free, but places are limited, so we need to ask you to book a place in advance. Tours will last around 1 hour.
When:
Thursday 21st March @ 2pm
Thursday 4th April @ 2pm
Thursday 18th April @ 2pm
Thursday 25th April @ 2pm
Thursday 2nd May @ 2pm
Other dates will be added soon! If you have a group of people that would like to see round, contact us to arrange a specific time and date.
Where:
Maryhill Burgh Halls, 10-24 Gairbraid Avenue, G20 8YE. Our new entrance is via the courtyard we share with Maryhill Leisure Centre - enter through the Firemen Gates in the archways halfway up Gairbraid Avenue. We’re on the right.
Please Book!
Please let us know the date & time you’d prefer, and how many places you’d like to reserve. Please email us on info@mbht.org.uk or ring 0845 860 1878, leaving a contact phone number or email address.
Motion S4M-01590: Bob Doris, Glasgow, Scottish National Party, Date Lodged: 14/12/2011
That the Parliament welcomes the news of the world’s first interactive stained glass windows being revealed at Maryhill Burgh Halls; recognises the technological achievement in incorporating a 2D barcode that can be scanned by visitors’ smartphones, automatically directing them to a webpage containing further material and information on the designs; acknowledges that the set of 10 features the Maryhill-born Turner Prize winners, Douglas Gordon and Susan Phillipsz, Jaconelli’s Café, local primary school children and the signature of Mrs Mary Hill, the lady who gave her name to the area; notes the long history of stained glass in Maryhill from the creation of the original “crown jewels of Maryhill” in 1878 when the burgh commissioned 20 stained glass windows to showcase the trades and industries of the area, and celebrates this initiative, which can attract and inform the next generation of visitors to the crown jewels of Maryhill, both old and new.
Supported by: Margaret Burgess, Kevin Stewart, Mike MacKenzie, David Torrance, Ruth Davidson, Stuart McMillan, Christina McKelvie, Humza Yousaf, Clare Adamson, Willie Coffey, Jamie Hepburn, Dennis Robertson, Colin Beattie, Bill Kidd, George Adam, Dave Thompson, Roderick Campbell, Adam Ingram, Annabelle Ewing
Set of ten includes the world’s first ever interactive stained glass window!
Stained glass is an ancient art form that stretches back hundreds of years. Now, here at Maryhill Burgh Halls, we’re ready to reveal the world’s first ever interactive stained glass window.
Scan the 2D barcode in the window with your smartphone, and you’ll be automatically taken to a webpage explaining the designs and giving information about the glass.
While the new glass is as modern as can be, stained glass in Maryhill has a long history: in 1878, the then Burgh commissioned twenty stained glass windows to showcase the trades and industries of Maryhill. They were designed by the artist Stephen Adam, and have become known as the crown jewels of Maryhill.
In 2010, Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust decided to commission ten new stained glass windows, to celebrate the completion of the multi-million pound restoration of the Halls.
Around 250 local people - ranging in age from 6 to well over 65! - got involved in the process, learning about the techniques involved in stained glass making, creating their own stained glass, and crucially, having their say as to the kinds of things the new windows should depict.
Featured in the original 1878 windows were boatbuilders, glassblowers, iron moulders and a canal boatman - what things would the people of modern Maryhill like to see captured in glass for the 21st century?
Glass artist Alec Galloway, working with community specialist Margo Winning, has distilled the hundreds of comments and suggestions down into a variety of themes depicted in ten new windows.
Alec says: “I have to thank everyone at Maryhill for giving me their time and having faith that I could deliver the ideas that were presented - the key to the project has been the close community involvement and the fact that so much has come directly from the people and imagery of Maryhill itself.
I wanted to create something different from the original 1878 Adam windows, but that would sit along side them and not become overshadowed. They are defined by the screenprinting technique, something that I'd only really done on a few pieces before - this then marks them out as being pretty unique as an architectural glass scheme anywhere in the UK.
I really do look forward to seeing them permanently on display in the Burgh Halls!”
Margo commented: “It quickly emerged that the multiple layers of communities that make up Maryhill were very keen to express their thoughts and ideas in a range of ways; including writing, drawings, glass making and in endless interesting discussion and chat. It provided an enormously valuable introduction and connection to the area and community, letting me learn more about the place and people in a few weeks than I otherwise could have in years. It has been a delightful project to be involved in.”
Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer for the Trust, said: “We’re really excited to finally see the results of all the hours of workshops and talks, and the effort put into this, not just from Alec and Margo, but from the literally hundreds of local people who got involved in various ways to have their say, try out some of the techniques involved in making stained glass, and in some cases, have their images actually featured in the glass itself.
The original Adam windows - which thanks to Glasgow Museums will be coming back to be displayed in the building very soon - have lasted over 130 years. Hopefully in another 130 years - around the year 2145 - the descendants of some of the school pupils featured in these new windows will be coming to the Burgh Halls to see just what their great-great grandfather looked like when he was in Primary 7 !”
Key funding for the Windows of Today project came from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Colin McLean, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said:
“In 1878 the most magnificent stained glass windows were unveiled to celebrate the opening of the Burgh Halls. Over a hundred years on, the art of stained glass has inspired the community to come together again to celebrate their rich heritage. With their roots in the past, these new windows are a symbol of the future and the people of Maryhill should be extremely proud of what they have achieved.”
The ten new windows have the following themes:
Education - featuring Primary 7 children from a local school
Culture - featuring Maryhill-born Turner prize winners Douglas Gordon & Susan Philipsz
Social Heritage - featuring Jaconelli’s cafe
Heavy Trades - featuring the Maryhill canal and locks
Workers - featuring the Bryant & May match factory
Space Age - featuring a local company that makes satellites
Youth - featuring a local youth club
Sport and Leisure - featuring the Maryhill Harriers running club, and 2 local football teams
Regeneration - featuring the Burgh Halls itself, and the silver key that opened it in 1878
Diversity - featuring some of the many different cultures now making up Maryhill
Connecting all the windows are excerpts from archive maps of the area, and lines from the song ‘Voices’, written by Kevin McDermott, about growing up in the Maryhill area.
Notes to Journalists
Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage. To date it has invested over £500million in Scotland’s heritage.
Further information is available from Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer, 0794 081 5202 at any time or email: press@mbht.org.uk
About the Regeneration Project
The 133 year old building has undergone a £9.6 million restoration project, which has breathed new life into the iconic Halls, saved them for the community, created a thriving centre for business, and made the place once again the focus and beating heart of Maryhill.
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust raised this remarkable sum to secure a bright future for the treasured Halls and in so doing recapture the splendor of one of the city's best loved buildings.
The restoration work began in November 2009 and is now complete, with the building due to open fully in the very near future.
In November 2010, the project was awarded a prize for best contribution to Urban Regeneration in Scotland through the use of European Structural Funds at the European Structural Funds Best Practice Awards.
Maryhill Burgh Halls were the seat of municipal government in the days before Maryhill was a part of Glasgow. Built in 1878 and designed by renowned architect Duncan McNaughtan, they have lain derelict for the past eight years and are listed on the Buildings at Risk register. Once open, the Halls will include a modern public hall, cafe, 11 offices, a commercial and a community recording studio, a nursery, meeting rooms and courtyard garden. Around 7 years of hard work has been put into developing proposals for the project.
The Board of the Trust, which comprises local people and representatives from partners Maryhill Housing Association, Cube Housing Association and Glasgow City Council, has worked tirelessly to deliver the restoration.
The contractor for the project Graham Construction has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration. Funding for the Maryhill Burgh Halls project has come from:
European Regional Development Funding £1.327m
Scottish Government City Growth Fund Phases 1 and 2 £1.26m
Heritage Lottery Fund £1.16m
Big Lottery - Growing Community Assets Fund £980,910
Glasgow City Council Better Glasgow Fund £1.02m
Glasgow City Council Vacant and Derelict Land Fund £675,000
Scottish Government Town Centre Regeneration Fund £1.8m
Historic Scotland £593,000
Scottish Government Wider Role Fund £764,000
The Robertson Trust £28,000
Everyone who is interested in following the development of the project through to completion can view progress and comment on the project on the Trust's Website at www.maryhillburghhalls.org.uk
Musicians from the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, including Barbara Downie (on violin, at the back of the photo) accompanied children from Maryhill Primary School in the Halls at Doors Open Day 2005 - this was the last time that live music was performed in the Halls before the major restoration works commenced.
Now, in October 2011, Barbara returned to the refurbished Halls to see how they'd changed - and make sure that the acoustics were still up to standard!
Other musicians and orchestras are also following suit, and it's fantastic to hear the building alive with music once again.
When Maryhill Burgh Halls first opened in 1878, two silver keys were specially made to mark the occasion.
Astonishingly, over 133 years later, one of the original keys has turned up out of the blue!
In April 1878, the Glasgow Herald said that:
"the company assembled in front of the entrance to the Public Hall, where Bailie Murray presented Provost Robertson with a silver key, with which the Provost opened the hall door and invited the company to enter. [...]
The silver keys presented to Provost Robertson and ex-Provost Shaw were formed so as to be suitable for fish-slicers, and were supplied by Mr Sorley, jeweller, Argyll Street."
Irene Scott, Chair of Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust said: "We were stunned when the Robertsons got in touch out of the blue, to say that not only were they descended from Provost James Robertson, but that they still had the silver key in their possession. We're delighted to be able to welcome Andrew Robertson, the great-great-grandson of Provost Robertson to Maryhill, and give him a sneak peak of the refurbished and restored Halls."
Andrew Robertson, who inherited the key, said: "We'd been researching our family history, and the connection to Maryhill and the Burgh Halls is one we're very proud of. There are branches of the family in Canada and the US, as well as South Africa and England, and we're hoping to have a reunion back in Maryhill in the Spring.
The reopening of the Halls is a really exciting venture and one in which I - and probably several other relations - would welcome to take part. Five generations on, we have the opportunity to bring the key back to where it started - as a part of the heritage of Maryhill."
Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer for the Trust said: "It's fantastic that this silver key has turned up! We'd always hoped that it still existed somewhere - plus, I'd always wondered how a key could also be in the shape of a fish-slice, and now we know! It is a stunningly beautiful object, and an important part of the history of Maryhill.
We know there was also a second key, gifted to the former Provost of the Burgh James Shaw - so if any of his descendents are reading this, please get in touch!
We're also keen to hear from anyone else that has any memories, or particularly old photos or mementoes of the Burgh Halls - did you get married there, or go to a dance? We'd love to be able to display more of the rich history of the area in the Halls when we re-open.
Please get in touch with us via email on info@mbht.org.uk or ring 0845 860 1878.
The Grand Re-opening of the Halls will be held in April next year - to tie in with the anniversary of the original opening in 1878 - when the silver key, and hopefully the Robertson family, will be in attendance to help officially declare the restored Halls fully open!
The 133 year old buildings, which contained 20 stained glass windows designed by Stephen Adam in 1878 depicting the trades of Maryhill, have undergone an over £9 million restoration project, which will breathe new life into the iconic Halls, save them for the community and create a thriving centre for local people and business use. The restoration work began in November 2009. Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust raised this remarkable sum to secure a bright future for the treasured Halls and in so doing recapture the splendour of one of the city's best loved buildings. In November 2010, the project was awarded a prize for best contribution to Urban Regeneration in Scotland through the use of European Structural Funds.
Once restored, the Halls will include a modern public hall, cafe, 11 offices, a commercial and a community recording studio, a nursery, meeting rooms and garden courtyard. The contractor for the project, Graham Construction, has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration.
The Funders for the project are: European Regional Development Funding , Scottish Government City Growth Fund Phases 1 and 2, Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery - Growing Community Assets Fund, Glasgow City Council Better Glasgow Fund, Glasgow City Council Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, Scottish Government Town Centre Regeneration Fund, Historic Scotland, Scottish Government Wider Role Fund, The Robertson Trust.
The refurbished Maryhill Burgh Halls are set to re-open towards the end of October 2011 – and when they do, the café and catering facilities will be provided by long established Glasgow company Grassroots Organic.
Irene Scott, Chair of Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust said “The Trust is delighted to announce that the well known Glasgow business, Grassroots Organic, will be both the operator for the Cafe within the buildings and the catering provider for functions in the Halls.”
Louise Duncan, Director of Grassroots Organic said "We are really looking forward to opening up in Maryhill in the fabulous spaces in the newly restored Halls. When we started our store and restaurant at St George’s Cross in Glasgow over 10 years ago, it was with the aim of promoting better nutrition and good health. That aim holds true today and will be the focus of our operation at Maryhill Burgh Halls. At Grassroots, we pride ourselves on the quality and tastiness of our food – both meat and vegetarian. Our catering for weddings and events will be tailored to customer requirements and budgets. We will also circulate a monthly newsletter with a focus on seasonal foods and we will hold classes and talks suitable for a variety of age groups focussing on health weeks and health issues."
Image - From left to right: Melanie Farrow, Halls Manager; Louise Duncan, Director, Grassroots Organic
The Halls will be an exciting new destination for both the local and wider community and will once again be the beating heart of Maryhill. If you would like to get involved as a volunteer, or to find out about our facilities for meetings, events, weddings and dinners, please get in touch – email us at info@mbht.org.uk or ring Halls Manager Melanie Farrow on 0845 860 1891 for more details or to make a booking.
Melanie Farrow, Halls Manager said: “The Trust is delighted that the buildings will soon be open for business and would like to invite everyone who is interested to come and see the buildings and make use of the facilities.”
The 133 year old buildings, which contained 20 stained glass windows designed by Stephen Adam in 1878 depicting the trades of Maryhill, have undergone an over £9 million restoration project, which will breathe new life into the iconic Halls, save them for the community and create a thriving centre for local people and business use. The restoration work began in November 2009. Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust raised this remarkable sum to secure a bright future for the treasured Halls and in so doing recapture the splendour of one of the city's best loved buildings. In November 2010, the project was awarded a prize for best contribution to Urban Regeneration in Scotland through the use of European Structural Funds.
Once restored, the Halls will include a modern public hall, cafe, 11 offices, a commercial and a community recording studio, a nursery, meeting rooms and garden courtyard. The contractor for the project, Graham Construction, has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration.
The Funders for the project are: European Regional Development Funding , Scottish Government City Growth Fund Phases 1 and 2, Heritage Lottery Fund, Big Lottery - Growing Community Assets Fund, Glasgow City Council Better Glasgow Fund, Glasgow City Council Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, Scottish Government Town Centre Regeneration Fund, Historic Scotland, Scottish Government Wider Role Fund, The Robertson Trust.
The windows are now in full production in Alec Galloway’s studio and we would like to invite you to visit and view the work being created.
Alec’s studio is part of the Inverclyde Open Studios Event taking place on Friday 16th (morning only), Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th September where he will be presenting demonstrations of his work.
Directions: Turn into Earnhill Road at the top of Larkfield Road (Opposite Gourock Cemetery). Follow road up to the top of the hill. Studio 2 is on the right next to Stepper Technology Disabled access but no disabled toilet.
More details can be found at the Open Studios event webpage at:
"WESTENDERS are being called north this week, as Maryhill burgh halls launches a new self-guided walking tour to draw history and nature lovers into the area."
How would you like to help design the Maryhill Burgh Halls new Youth and Community Music programmes ?
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust wants to hear from you about the sort of musical events and activities you would like to take part in.
By completing this short online survey you can help ensure you get the programme of events and activities that you want.
We want to hear about your current experiences of music and culture in the North Glasgow area, and what you'd be interested in finding out more about, or possibly getting involved in. Is there anything that's stopping you at the moment?
Given the chance, is there anything - from performing, to recording, from the artistic side right through to the technical behind-the-scenes stuff that you've always wanted to do?
Think big: the sky's the limit!
Please help us develop a meaningful and exciting programme of events by completing our online survey, which can be accessed via the link below. It's just 5 questions, and will only take a few minutes. Thank you!
“Maryhill possess in itself and in its environs such strong attractions of scenery as draw many visitors from Glasgow…” – Gazetteer of Scotland, 1884
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust is launching a new free self-guided walking tour as an introduction to some of the history, heritage, and regeneration going on in the Maryhill area of Glasgow.
The varied walk takes in the historic heart of Maryhill, as well as the peaceful, sunken green corridor of the River Kelvin valley, some stunning views from the raised portions of the Forth & Clyde Canal, and highlights the surprising number of historic buildings, interesting architecture, and important social and industrial heritage in the area.
“We’re very excited to be launching this walking guide”, said Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer for the Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust, “Maryhill is a part of Glasgow often overlooked on the standard tourist trails, something we hope to change! You’ll see historic buildings (including the restored Burgh Halls and Maryhill Leisure Centre), ancient monuments (such as the canal locks and aqueduct), and one of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s least well known buildings. You’ll follow the route of old railways lines, discover the location of many of the famous Maryhill stained glass panels, and maybe even see the odd heron or swan along the way.”
The full colour, lavishly illustrated 16-page guide is free to download from our website at www.mbht.org.uk/walks and you can also pick up a printed copy at local libraries, and leaflet distribution sites throughout the city. The website also has larger print and mobile-formatted versions available as well.
The design and distribution of the guide has been funded by a grant from the Glasgow City Heritage Trust. Torsten Haak, Director of Glasgow City Heritage Trust, is delighted to have been involved with funding this new trail through the Trust's Heritage Grant programme. “Maryhill has a fascinating, but somewhat overlooked, built heritage” he commented; “and this new heritage trail is a great way of highlighting and celebrating the multitude of diverse historic buildings in the area.”
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust will also be running free guided versions of the walk throughout the summer months; see the website for more details.
Further information is available from Hunter Reid, Project Co-ordinator and Company Secretary or Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer, on 0845 860 1878 at any time
Glasgow City Heritage Trust champions the city's unique architecture and built environment. We are here to promote and encourage the understanding, appreciation and conservation of Glasgow's historic buildings for the benefit of the city's communities and its visitors, now and in the future.
The 133 year old building is undergoing a £9.2 million restoration project, which will breathe new life into the iconic Halls, save them for the community, create a thriving centre for business, and make the place once again the focus and beating heart of Maryhill.
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust raised this remarkable sum to secure a bright future for the treasured Halls and in so doing recapture the splendour of one of the city's best loved buildings. The restoration work began in November 2009 and is scheduled for completion later this year.
In November 2010, the project was awarded a prize as Best contribution to Urban Regeneration in Scotland through the use of European Structural Funds at the European Structural Funds Best Practice Awards.
Maryhill Burgh Halls were the seat of municipal government in the days before Maryhill was a part of Glasgow. Built in 1878 and designed by renowned architect Duncan McNaughtan, they have lain derelict for a number of years and are listed on the Buildings at Risk register.
Once restored, the Halls will include a modern public hall, cafe, 11 offices, a commercial and a community recording studio, a nursery, meeting rooms and courtyard garden. Around 7 years of hard work has been put into developing proposals for the project. The Board of the Trust, which comprises local people and representatives from partners Maryhill Housing Association, Cube Housing Association and Glasgow City Council, has worked tirelessly to deliver the restoration.
The contractor for the project Graham Construction has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration.
Funding for the Maryhill Burgh Halls project has come from:
European Regional Development Funding - £1.279m
Scottish Government City Growth Fund Phases 1 and 2 - £1.25m
Heritage Lottery Fund - £990,000
Big Lottery - Growing Community Assets Fund - £980,910
Glasgow City Council Better Glasgow Fund - £1.02m
Glasgow City Council Vacant and Derelict Land Fund - £650,000
Scottish Government Town Centre Regeneration Fund - £1.8m
A collection was taken on site for the Yorkhill Teenage Cancer Unit. The total raised from the Maryhill Burgh Halls Site Operatives was £370.00 Pounds.
The money will go towards buying games etc. to be placed in the Family/Entertainment room in the Unit.
Gregory Holland, Christopher Gallagher (Graham SMT) hand over the Cheque to the Ward Manager Lesley Wilson and Staff Nurse Jenn Dunn.
In addition, Graham Construction has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration.
The post of Halls Manager at Maryhill Burgh Halls has been vacant for many years. Now, with the Halls set to re-open later this year after an award winning multi-million pound regeneration project, Melanie Farrow has taken up the post to run Halls fit for the 21st century.
Melanie’s new role will draw on her extensive experience in both personal and professional arenas; she has been running venues and events of all sizes for nearly twenty years, and has a keen interest in dance and fitness practice – all of which will stand her in good stead in making a renewed success of the Burgh Halls.
“Having previously worked on a number of new build arts related projects, I am relishing the prospect of working with Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust and the reinvigorated Halls. I am looking forward to working with the local and wider community to make the Halls an exciting destination, and help make them once again the focal point of the community.
If you would like to get involved, or to find out about our facilities for meetings, events, weddings and dinners, please do not hesitate in getting in touch – email us at info@mbht.org.uk or ring 0141 948 1131 for more details!”
Heritage Development Officer Gordon Barr added:
“From some of the old Burgh Minutes, it seems that the first holder of the post in 1878 was one David MacFarlane, and that the post of Hall Keeper used to have a uniform consisting of a specially made coat, waistcoat, trousers and cap. We may have to look into reinstating this tradition for our new Halls Manager when we re-open later in the year!”
Irene Scott, Chair of Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust said: “The trust are delighted to have Melanie join the team in this new, and crucial role. We’re sure that she will help make the Halls a great success.”
Notes to Journalists
This news release is issued by Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust www.maryhillburghhalls.org.uk
Further information is available from Hunter Reid, Project Co-ordinator and Company Secretary on 07808 739627 or Dr Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer, 0794 081 5202 at any time
email: press@mbht.org.uk
About the Project
The 133 year old building is undergoing a £9.2 million restoration project, which will breathe new life into the iconic Halls, save them for the community, create a thriving centre for business, and make the place once again the focus and beating heart of Maryhill.
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust raised this remarkable sum to secure a bright future for the treasured Halls and in so doing recapture the splendor of one of the city's best loved buildings. The restoration work began in November 2009 and is scheduled for completion later this year.
In November 2010, the project was awarded a prize as Best contribution to Urban Regeneration in Scotland through the use of European Structural Funds at the European Structural Funds Best Practice Awards.
Maryhill Burgh Halls were the seat of municipal government in the days before Maryhill was a part of Glasgow. Built in 1878 and designed by renowned architect Duncan McNaughtan, they have lain derelict for the past eight years and are listed on the Buildings at Risk register.
Once restored, the Halls will include a modern public hall, cafe, 11 offices, a commercial and a community recording studio, a nursery, meeting rooms and courtyard garden.
Around 6 years of hard work has been put into developing proposals for the project. The Board of the Trust, which comprises local people and representatives from partners Maryhill Housing Association, Cube Housing Association and Glasgow City Council, has worked tirelessly to deliver the restoration.
The contractor for the project Graham Construction has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration.
Funding for the Maryhill Burgh Halls project has come from:
European Regional Development Funding £1.279m
Scottish Government City Growth Fund Phases 1 and 2 £1.25m
Heritage Lottery Fund £990,000
Big Lottery - Growing Community Assets Fund £980,910
Glasgow City Council Better Glasgow Fund £1.02m
Glasgow City Council Vacant and Derelict Land Fund £650,000
Scottish Government Town Centre Regeneration Fund £1.8m
Historic Scotland £500,000
Scottish Government Wider Role Fund £750,000
The Robertson Trust £28,000
Everyone who is interested in following the development of the project through to completion can view progress and comment on the project on the Trust's Website at www.maryhillburghhalls.org.uk
The mystery of the unknown worker has been solved.
A stunning series of 20 stained glass panels were commissioned for the Maryhill Burgh Halls in 1878, featuring the many varied trades and industries of the area.
Most are easily identifiable images such as a gas worker, iron moulder, joiner or boat-builder.
But one of the panels has remained a mystery – and with all the original paperwork having been long since lost, there was no easy way to figure out exactly what sort of job the ‘Unknown Worker’ was doing.
Years of research had been unable to positively identify it – and suggestions varied from a metal casting process, a brewing process or even a steam laundry.
This long-standing mystery has finally been solved by Glaswegian Michael Meighan, who has been researching for his new book ‘Glaswegians with a Flourish’. Said Michael:
“I was aware of the Maryhill stained glass puzzle, and I was as intrigued as anyone. While I was investigating the role of the Mechanics Institute in Glasgow – which was attended by Scotland’s first oil tycoon James ‘Paraffin’ Young - I came across the Institute’s ‘Mechanics Magazine’ published in 1824 and held by the National Library of Scotland.
On the front page of one of the issues was a drawing of a press almost exactly like the equipment being used in the stained glass window.
Imagine my growing interest as I started reading a ‘Description of the Great Bandana Gallery in the Turkey Red factory of Messrs Monteith & Co. at Glasgow’.
This described in detail the process of using a hydrostatic press to impregnate and pattern cotton cloth with Turkey red dye. In this case this factory contained presses which produced bandanas for foreign markets including the iconic scarves worn by the American cowboys!
Turkey red dyeing was originally brought to Scotland from France, and became a massively important industry in the West of Scotland in the 1800’s.
Besides cowboy bandanas, the British Redcoats were dyed with Turkey red, as well as beautifully patterned cloths which were exported throughout the world.
The dyeing process was revolutionary as it allowed whole cloths to be dyed, rather than the threads from which they were made, shortening the process considerably. One factory that had 16 presses of the type shown was able to produce 1600 pieces of 12 yards each in just ten hours.”
Heritage Development Officer for the Trust, Gordon Barr, said:
“Just when I started to think we’d never know for sure what was going on in this panel, I got a phone call from Michael out of the blue! We’re delighted to have the mystery solved, and fill in the last blank.
But just as one puzzle is solved, it also reveals more questions to be asked – we don’t know which company in the Maryhill area might have been using this process at the time the panels were commissioned – so there’s still more to find out to keep us busy!”
Thanks to a partnership with Glasgow Museums, who have had the glass in safe keeping for nearly 50 years, the restoration will also see a significant collection of the original stained glass windows, conserved and returned to the Burgh Halls for display once the building is re-opened later this year.
In addition, the Trust has recently commissioned 10 new stained glass “Windows of Today” which will depict life in Maryhill as it is now.
Notes to Journalists:
This news release is issued by Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust www.maryhillburghhalls.org.uk
Further information is available from Hunter Reid, Project Co-ordinator and Company Secretary on 07808 739627 or Dr Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer, 0794 081 5202 at any time email: press@mbht.org.uk
Michael Meighan is the author of ‘Glasgow Smells’ and ‘Glasgow Smells Better’. ‘Glaswegians with a Flourish’ is due to be published in May and he is currently working on a book on Scottish Industry in which Turkey Red will feature.
The 133 year old building is undergoing a £9.2 million restoration project, which will breathe new life into the iconic Halls, save them for the community, create a thriving centre for business, and make the place once again the focus and beating heart of Maryhill. Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust raised this remarkable sum to secure a bright future for the treasured Halls and in so doing recapture the splendor of one of the city's best loved buildings. The restoration work began in November 2009 and is scheduled for completion later this year.
In November 2010, the project was awarded a prize as Best contribution to Urban Regeneration in Scotland through the use of European Structural Funds at the European Structural Funds Best Practice Awards.
Maryhill Burgh Halls were the seat of municipal government in the days before Maryhill was a part of Glasgow. Built in 1878 and designed by renowned architect Duncan McNaughtan, they have lain derelict for the past eight years and are listed on the Buildings at Risk register. Once restored, the Halls will include a modern public hall, cafe, 11 offices, a commercial and a community recording studio, a nursery, meeting rooms and courtyard garden. Around 6 years of hard work has been put into developing proposals for the project. The Board of the Trust, which comprises local people and representatives from partners Maryhill Housing Association, Cube Housing Association and Glasgow City Council, has worked tirelessly to deliver the restoration.
The contractor for the project Graham Construction has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration.
Funding for the Maryhill Burgh Halls project has come from:
European Regional Development Funding £1.279m
Scottish Government City Growth Fund Phases 1 and 2 £1.25m
Heritage Lottery Fund £990,000
Big Lottery - Growing Community Assets Fund £980,910
Glasgow City Council Better Glasgow Fund £1.02m
Glasgow City Council Vacant and Derelict Land Fund £650,000
Scottish Government Town Centre Regeneration Fund £1.8m
Historic Scotland £500,000
Scottish Government Wider Role Fund £750,000
The Robertson Trust £28,000
Everyone who is interested in following the development of the project through to completion can view progress and comment on the project on the Trust's Website at www.maryhillburghhalls.org.uk
For over a hundred years, the facade of Maryhill Burgh Halls was topped by an elegant, octagonal cupola tower, crowned by a wind vane - but it was removed in the early 1980s as it was becoming dangerous.
Now, as a major milestone in the ongoing, award-winning £9.2 million restoration project, a brand new hand-crafted replica of the original tower has been lifted up to the roof - over 60 feet above the street - by a giant crane.
For over a hundred years, the facade of Maryhill Burgh Halls was topped by an elegant, octagonal cupola tower, crowned by a wind vane - but it was removed in the early 1980s as it was becoming dangerous.
Now, as a major milestone in the ongoing, award-winning £9.2 million restoration project, a brand new hand-crafted replica of the original tower has been lifted up to the roof - over 60 feet above the street - by a giant crane.
The building contractor putting the building together is Graham Construction. The new cupola has been designed by JM Architects to be as close as possible a replica of the original, based on archive photos and drawings. Built by hand by specialist joinery contractors Hutton and Read, the cupola tower is an impressive 5 feet in diameter, 12 feet high, and is made from Douglas Fir, covered in hand-worked lead.
The wind vane is also hand made, designed and manufactured specially by P Johnston & Co. blacksmiths at Ratho Byres Forge.
Irene Scott, Chair of the Trust said:
“Now fixed back on the crest of the roof, the stunning cupola restores the exterior of this historic listed building back to how it looked when it first opened in 1878. It helps show the grand scale and ambition of the original, as well as helping to make clear how much progress has been made in the lead up to the Halls finally re-opening later this year.”
Hunter Reid, Project Co-ordinator and Company Secretary of the Trust added:
“The tower isn’t just decorative - it also forms a key part of the ventilation system of the refurbished building, which as much as possible uses natural ventilation to draw fresh air into the building. It’s great to see it back, and we’re delighted by the attention to detail and high-quality workmanship involved”.
Further information is available from Hunter Reid, Project Co-ordinator and Company Secretary on 07808 739627 or Dr Gordon Barr, Heritage Development Officer, 0794 081 5202 at any time
The 132 year old building is just over half way through a £9.2 million restoration project, which will breathe new life into the iconic Halls, save them for the community, create a thriving centre for business, and make the place once again the focus and beating heart of Maryhill.
Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust raised this remarkable sum to secure a bright future for the treasured Halls and in so doing recapture the splendor of one of the city's best loved buildings. The restoration work began in November 2009 and is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2011.
In November 2011, the project was awarded a prize as Best contribution to Urban Regeneration in Scotland through the use of European Structural Funds at the European Structural Funds Best Practice Awards.
Maryhill Burgh Halls were the seat of municipal government in the days before Maryhill was a part of Glasgow. Built in 1878 and designed by renowned architect Duncan McNaughtan, they have lain derelict for the past eight years and are listed on the Buildings at Risk register.
Once restored, the Halls will include a modern public hall, cafe, 11 offices, a commercial and a community recording studio, a nursery, meeting rooms and courtyard garden.
Around 6 years of hard work has been put into developing proposals for the project. The Board of the Trust, which comprises local people and representatives from partners Maryhill Housing Association, Cube Housing Association and Glasgow City Council, has worked tirelessly to deliver the restoration.
The outstanding architectural appeal and historic merit of the Halls is further enhanced by a unique series of stained glass panels depicting the trades and industries of Maryhill in the late 19th century, and which are currently in safe keeping with Glasgow Museums.
The restoration will also see a significant collection of the 20 stained glass windows, conserved and returned to the Burgh Halls. In addition, the Trust has recently commissioned 10 new “Windows of Today” which will depict life in Maryhill as it is now.
The contractor for the project Graham Construction has secured employment opportunities within the local community by creating three apprenticeships in joinery to work on the Halls restoration.
Funding of the project has come from the following sources:
European Regional Development Funding £1.279m
Scottish Government City Growth Fund Phases 1 and 2 £1.25m
Heritage Lottery Fund £990,000
Big Lottery - Growing Community Assets Fund £980,910
Glasgow City Council Better Glasgow Fund £1.02m
Glasgow City Council Vacant and Derelict Land Fund £650,000
Scottish Government Town Centre Regeneration Fund £1.8m
Historic Scotland £500,000
Scottish Government Wider Role Fund £750,000
The Robertson Trust £28,000
Everyone who is interested in following the development of the project through to completion can view progress and comment on the project on the Trust's Website at www.maryhillburghhalls.org.uk
On Saturday 15th January we held three free hands-on workshops in a local community hall, to give people who signed up in advance a chance to meet our glass artists, talk about their suggestions and ideas for the Windows of Today, and get to try out some of the techniques involved in making stained glass,
The designs created on the day will be fired by Alec in his studio, and later returned to the participants - meaning they all get a permanent souvenir of their involvement with the project.
As a special bonus, and thank you to those that attended despite the horrible weather on the day, participants that filled in a feedback form got to choose a item to take away from a huge Christmas Goody Hamper, which had been generously donated to the Trust by our contractors, Graham Construction.
Other workshops, talks and discussions have already been held with other community groups, including two different primary school classes (P6 and P7), 6th year pupils at a local High School, a carers group, a women's group, a writer's group, and youth group leaders. All of these have helped bring their own unique perspectives, ideas and suggestions to what should be featured in the new windows.
