As originally planned, the Antiquaries had arranged for the Chair of the Alexander Thomson Society to give a talk on the life and work of Alexander 'Greek' Thomson, from his start in Balfron to becoming one of Scotland's most famous architects. His influence is most obviously seen in Glasgow, but also throughout the West of Scotland including Lenzie. This would have been the Society’s contribution to East Dunbartonshire’s Local History Month, but unfortunately, due to illness, the talk had to be cancelled with possible rescheduling on a later date. Rather than cancel the event itself, the Society's President, Dr Ivan Ruddock, volunteered to present ‘Memories of the Glasgow Garden Festival, 1988’ at the originally advertised time and place, i.e. 2.00 pm on 23 March 2023 at the Park Centre, Kirkintilloch.
The decision to proceed was vindicated by a good attendance of members and non-members. The audience was first reminded of the many large exhibitions held in Glasgow prior to the Garden Festival, and then taken down memory lane with an overview of the location, the various themed gardens, the trams and trains provided to tour the site, the entertainment and the thrill rides, and the options for eating. The impact of the Garden Festival on the economy of Glasgow was also examined, as well as the current locations of some of the major exhibits. The talk was beautifully illustrated and expertly delivered. Great memories and a big thank you to Ivan.
David Graham
