Recollections of Garelochhead 100 Years Ago

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The author describes his life growing up in the village of Garelochhead in the West of Scotland at the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth century. What emerges is an engaging account of the whole way of life of the community in that period. He has made valuable observations of the prevailing customs then, some of which are surprising. For example, the village shops were open until 11.00 pm on Saturdays, a sports day was held on 1st January, and he touches on various aspect of life, food, dress, school etc.

William Hamilton was a noted beekeeper and for much of his life he lectured on the subject. He was very interested in natural history and he records encounters with wildlife which has long ago vanished from the area, e.g., red squirrels, corncrakes, and kingfishers.

He describes the importance of the Clyde steamers to the people of the Gareloch during his childhood particularly prior to the arrival of the West Highland Railway and recalls the several companies which served the Gareloch.

People of the village figure prominently in his recollections, notably the several benefactors who contributed to the welfare of the people. The existence of a strong community spirit at that time is very evident.