Paisley Heritage

02/03/2025

Welcome to the third post in our Paisley Memories series, where we share the wonderful stories you’ve contributed—keeping our town’s rich history alive!

This week, we’re taking a trip down Paisley’s High Street—back to the days when it was packed with bustling shops, shoe stores, and Saturday outings.

🏬 The Golden Days of Paisley’s High Street
• Alan M. – Remembers City Cash Tailors and the variety of shops Paisley once had.
• Janis M. – Misses when Paisley had a real shopping hub and wasn’t just a place to pass through.
• Lesley G. – Recalls how busy the pavements were on Saturdays, sometimes even having to step onto the road!
• Christine C. – Loved shopping in Paisley when it was thriving. ❤️
• Marie Q. – Remembers the 50s, 60s & 70s when you could get everything you needed in town without going to Glasgow.
• Rachel H. – Misses being able to shop in small, independent stores instead of giant retail chains.

🛍 Shops We Still Remember
• Russell B. – Bought Airfix kits at Woolworths and visited Variety Stores in Moss St.
• Sarah H. – Still uses the rolling pin she bought in Woolworths in 1965 for just 2/6! 🥖
• Laura P. – Her sister worked in Saxone, one of Paisley’s many shoe shops. 👠
• Scott M. – His mum worked in Dolcis, right next to Woolworths.
• Paula J. C. – Worked her way up at Timpsons, from YTS to Assistant Manager!
• Lynne C. – Had a Saturday job in Easiephit and shopped at Paige & Miss Lewis for fashion and Cuthbertsons for LPs. 🎵
• Ken S. – Remembers Paisley being full of shoe shops, with Mansfield’s on the corner now sadly abandoned.
• Neil M. – Used to shop at Young’s for school bags, and remembers a model shop under Gilmour Street Station. 🚂
• Ken S. & Anne H. – Recall Young’s toy shop, a favourite stop for many. 🎁

🍬 Saturday Traditions & Treats
• Karen B. – Loved going to Woolworths on Saturdays with her gran, always getting some Pick ‘n’ Mix. 🍬
• Christine S. – Remembers listening to music in Woolworths before buying tapes and getting broken biscuits for a penny from her aunt at the biscuit counter.
• George C. – Misses how busy Paisley used to be, with buses running through the High Street.
• Elise G. – Loved the social aspect of shopping, getting fresh air and chatting with people in town.

🚌 The Buzz of Town Life
• Janette M. – Remembers struggling to get on a bus home after a busy day shopping!
• Ian G. – Remembers Jackson & Burton Tailors, where everyone dressed smartly and bought made-to-measure suits. 👔

📉 The Decline of Paisley’s High Street
• Kenny M. – Reflects on how shops closed due to pedestrianisation, with Watson the Butcher forced to relocate twice.
• Heather W. – Feels that Paisley’s rich history is being lost, with beautiful old buildings being demolished.
• Richard D. – Blames shopping malls and online shopping for the decline of once-great High Streets.

Despite the changes in Paisley, these memories show how much the High Street meant to so many people—from shopping and working to weekend traditions and family outings.

What are your favourite High Street memories? Let us know in the comments! 👇

01/03/2025

Our new home!

01/03/2025

Back in 2018, we dared to dream, to create our own walking tours, to share the stories that shaped us. We knew it wouldn’t happen overnight. It would take years of dedication, perseverance, and the unwavering spirit of our community. And it did.

But today, that dream is no longer just a vision—it’s reality.

What started as a simple idea has become something extraordinary. We now hold the keys to our own heritage hub—a space that exists because of you, our incredible community. This isn’t just our achievement; it’s yours. A place where our history is honoured, our voices are heard, and our future is shaped together.

But this is not the finish line—it’s just the beginning.

Together, we are not just preserving history—we are making it. And the best is yet to come.

01/03/2025

The History of Paisley Canal Station and the Paisley Canal Line

Paisley Canal Station was once a vital transport hub in the town of Paisley, serving both commuters and industry for nearly a century. Opened in 1885, it played a crucial role in Paisley’s textile boom, linking workers and goods to Glasgow and beyond. However, due to changing transport trends and railway cuts, the station closed in 1983, and its ornate Victorian building was demolished. In 1990, a simplified version of the line was revived, but the original station was lost forever.

This article explores the rise, decline, and partial rebirth of Paisley Canal Station, uncovering its impact on the town, its architectural beauty, and its lasting legacy.

Origins: Paisley’s Canal That Became a Railway (Early 19th Century)

Before the railway, Paisley relied on the Glasgow, Paisley, and Ardrossan Canal for transport. The canal was originally planned to connect Glasgow with Ardrossan Harbour, providing a direct shipping route for trade. However, the project was never fully completed, and when railways became dominant, much of the canal route was abandoned.

▪️ By the 1850s, railway expansion had begun, with tracks replacing the old canal routes.
▪️ The Glasgow and South Western Railway (G&SWR) constructed the Paisley Canal Line in 1885, using much of the former canal path.
▪️ The railway’s purpose was to connect Paisley’s growing textile industry with Glasgow and other trading centres.

This explains why the railway was named after the canal, even though the canal had already disappeared by the time it opened.

The Golden Age of Paisley Canal Station (1885–1923)

Paisley Canal Station was built during a period of rapid industrial expansion in Paisley. The thread mills of Coats & Clark were some of the largest in the world, employing thousands of workers. The station was designed to handle both passengers and freight, making it an essential part of the town’s infrastructure.

Architectural Features of the Original Station
▪️ Large arched glass windows with intricate iron framework.
▪️ A covered waiting area to protect passengers from the elements.
▪️ A pedestrian footbridge connecting platforms.
▪️ A goods yard, allowing trains to transport raw cotton, coal, and machinery for Paisley’s textile mills.

Why Was the Station So Important to Paisley?
▪️ Workers' Transport – Thousands of mill workers used the train daily to travel between Paisley and Glasgow.
▪️ Freight Transport – The station helped export Paisley’s famous textiles to international markets.
▪️ Commuter Travel – The line made Paisley a desirable place to live, with quick access to Glasgow.

For decades, Paisley Canal Station thrived as one of Paisley’s busiest railway stops.

Changes and Nationalisation (1923–1948)

In 1923, the UK government reorganised the railway network, merging companies under larger operators. Paisley Canal Station became part of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS).

Impact on Paisley
▪️ Services were modernised, with newer locomotives running the route.
▪️ World War II (1939–1945) saw an increase in railway traffic, with trains carrying troops and war materials to Glasgow’s shipyards.
▪️ The station remained a key hub for Paisley, but competition from road transport began to emerge.

By the late 1940s, the British railway system was struggling, and in 1948, it was nationalised under British Railways.

Decline and Closure: The Beeching Report (1950s–1983)

After World War II, cars and buses became more popular, leading to a decline in railway use. By the 1960s, British Rail was looking to cut costs, and the Beeching Report (1963) recommended closing many local railway lines.

▪️ The Paisley Canal Line was initially spared, but passenger numbers continued to drop in the 1970s.
▪️ Glasgow St Enoch Station, which served the line, was demolished in 1977, making the route less convenient.
▪️ By the early 1980s, British Rail declared Paisley Canal Station uneconomical.

The Closure (1983)
▪️ On 10 January 1983, the final train departed from Paisley Canal Station.
▪️ The station building was demolished, despite protests from local residents.
▪️ The footbridge and original platforms were removed, erasing most traces of the old station.
▪️ The railway line beyond Paisley Canal was completely lifted, turning much of it into a walking and cycling path.

Paisley had lost one of its most iconic railway landmarks.

Partial Revival: The Reopening of 1990

Public demand for rail services led to the partial reopening of the Paisley Canal Line in 1990. However, the new station was not a full restoration of the old one.

How Was the New Station Different?

▪️ Built slightly east of the original location.
▪️ Lacked the grand Victorian architecture of the original.
▪️ Operated as a single-track station, limiting capacity.
▪️ The route was shortened, no longer extending west beyond Paisley.

Present-Day Services

▪️ ScotRail operates regular trains between Paisley Canal and Glasgow Central.
▪️ The station remains a busy commuter stop, though it lacks the historical charm of its predecessor.

Despite its reopening, the loss of the original Paisley Canal Station is still felt by railway enthusiasts and local residents.

Lost History and Forgotten Stories

Abandoned and Lost Stations on the Paisley Canal Line
▪️ Elderslie Station – Closed in 1966, remnants of platforms still visible.
▪️ Johnstone North Station – Disappeared entirely after closure.
▪️ Bridge of Weir Station – Converted into private property.
▪️ Kilmacolm Station – Now a café and public space.

Ghost Stories and Local Legends

▪️ The Phantom Train – Some railway workers reported hearing ghostly train whistles long after the station was abandoned.
▪️ The Lost Passenger – An old Victorian-era woman was reportedly seen waiting for a train at the station years after its closure.

While likely urban myths, these stories add to the mystique of Paisley Canal’s history.

Could the Line Be Extended Again?
There have been discussions about re-extending the line beyond Paisley Canal.

Arguments for Expansion
▪️ Paisley’s population is growing, and demand for rail travel is increasing.
▪️ The old railway route is now a cycling and walking path, which could be restored to rail use.

For now, the Paisley Canal Line remains a commuter route, but railway enthusiasts still hope for an expansion.

Final Thoughts: A Lost Paisley Icon

Paisley Canal Station was once a grand and vital part of the town, but its closure in 1983 erased a piece of Paisley’s history. Although the line reopened, the architectural beauty of the original station is gone forever.

28/02/2025

Paisley Baths, Storie Street – where memories were made! 🏊‍♂️ From learning to swim (or pretending we could) to warming up with chicken soup and finishing the day with chips from Allan’s 🍟. Who else remembers the Saturday morning routine and sneaking into Woolies for pick ‘n’ mix? 😆

28/02/2025

Watson’s the Butcher – the best square slice ever! 🏆 From legendary steak pies to sausages queued round the block, it was a Paisley High Street icon. Who remembers the Saturday morning rush? 😋🔥

27/02/2025

Thanks to everyone who came to Gayle’s talk and presentation on the memory of witches tonight and of course to Gayle too.

Sorry I missed it.

Keep your eyes peeled for more talks, walks and tours coming soon!

Thanks

Rachael

27/02/2025

Getting the keys to our new home on Saturday!!! Very excited! We're looking for anyone who might want to help us document getting it up and running for the big launch.

27/02/2025

The Origins and Evolution of the Name "Paisley"

The name Paisley is one of Scotland’s most recognisable place names, yet its origins remain somewhat uncertain. Over the centuries, the town has been recorded under various spellings, evolving into the form we know today. Tracing its linguistic history provides insight into Paisley’s ancient roots and the cultural influences that have shaped it.

Early Spellings and Variations

The earliest written records of Paisley, found in medieval charters, spell the name in several different ways, including Passelet, Paslet, and Paseleth. As time progressed, the t at the end disappeared, leading to variations such as Paseley, Pasly, and Paslie, before eventually settling on Paisley.

This variation in spelling was common in medieval times when standardised spelling did not exist, and names were often written phonetically. The shifts in pronunciation and orthography reflect the linguistic changes taking place in Scotland over the centuries.

Possible Meanings and Origins

Scholars have debated the etymology of Paisley, and while there is no definitive answer, several theories exist:

▪️ Derived from a Brittonic or Gaelic Root
▫️ Some believe Paisley has Celtic origins, possibly coming from a Brittonic or Gaelic word. One suggestion is that it derives from the Brittonic Passelec, meaning "basilica" or "major church," which would fit given Paisley’s strong religious connections, particularly with its Abbey.

▪️ Linked to Early Christian Settlements
▫️ Another theory suggests the name could be tied to Saint Mirin, the Christian missionary who preached in Paisley and established a church there. If Paisley indeed derives from a word meaning “place of the church,” it would reflect the town’s deep religious heritage.

▪️ Old English or Norse Influence
▫️ Some researchers speculate that Paisley may have roots in Old English or Norse, with connections to words meaning “pasture” or “clearing in the forest.” Given that early settlements often formed around natural landmarks and resources, this explanation is also plausible.

Similar Words and Linguistic Relatives

The name Paisley shares similarities with several words from different languages, which might indicate its origin:

▪️ Brittonic and Gaelic Comparisons
▫️ Passelec / Baselique – A Brittonic or Old French word meaning "major church" or "basilica."
▫️ Pasge / Pash – Possible early Celtic and Brittonic words related to passage, crossing, or pathway.
▫️ Pasture / Pais / Pas – Words relating to open land or enclosures, possibly linked to early agriculture.

▪️ Old English and Norse Comparisons
▫️ Pasla / Paslow / Paslea – Anglo-Saxon names with pas or lea (meaning meadow, clearing, or woodland settlement).
▫️ Pays / Paysel – Old French words relating to country or region, which may have influenced Norman settlers.

▪️ Scots and Gaelic Variations
▫️ Baisle / Basla – Potential Gaelic forms resembling Paisley, linked to early settlements or land divisions.
▫️ Paslag / Pàislig – Scots Gaelic attempts at rendering Paisley, potentially influenced by Latin or Old French.

The Name’s Enduring Legacy

Regardless of its exact origins, Paisley has remained remarkably consistent in pronunciation over time, despite its shifting spellings. It has become famous not only as the name of the town but also for the globally recognised Paisley pattern, which originated from the textile industry that flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries.

The image is for scene-setting only and should not be taken as an exact representation of details.

27/02/2025

Gilmour Street Station and the Changing Landscape of Paisley in 1888

Gilmour Street Station has long been a focal point in the heart of Paisley, serving as a crucial transport link connecting the town to Glasgow, Ayrshire, and beyond. By 1888, the station had undergone significant expansion, reflecting the rapid industrial growth of Paisley and the increasing reliance on railway transport. However, one notable feature missing from the landscape at the time was the Post Office, which had not yet been constructed on the railway goods yard adjacent to the station.

The 1888 photograph of Gilmour Street Station captures a pivotal moment in the town’s history—a time of transformation, where old and new converged. Hansom cabs waited to be hired, horse-drawn wagons carried goods from the railway yard, and people gathered by the newly erected bridge parapet, observing the station’s latest developments. This article explores the historical context of Gilmour Street Station, its significance in Paisley’s economic and industrial growth, and the broader urban changes that shaped the town in the late 19th century.

1. Gilmour Street Station: The Railway Hub of Paisley
Opened in 1840 as part of the Glasgow, Paisley, Kilmarnock and Ayr Railway, Gilmour Street Station quickly became Paisley’s principal railway station. By the late 19th century, its importance had grown significantly, leading to a major expansion in 1878, which included:

▪️ Additional railway lines to accommodate increased passenger and freight traffic.
▪️ New arched bridges, improving access and train movement.
▪️ A high-level goods yard, which would later become the site of the Post Office.

By 1885, the newly expanded lines had opened to the public, reinforcing Gilmour Street’s role as a key transport hub for both commuters and industrial shipments. The decorated buildings seen in the 1888 photograph likely commemorate these upgrades, marking another milestone in Paisley’s infrastructure growth.

However, Gilmour Street was not the only railway station in town, as a rivalry existed between the Glasgow & South Western Railway (G&SWR) and the Caledonian Railway. This competition shaped the railway landscape in Paisley:

G&SWR (Glasgow & South Western Railway) operated Gilmour Street as part of its main route to Glasgow St Enoch, Ayrshire, and beyond. The company also controlled Paisley Canal Station, which provided an alternative route to Glasgow St Enoch.

Caledonian Railway also ran services through Gilmour Street, connecting Glasgow Central to Wemyss Bay, Gourock, and Greenock, ensuring competition on the westward routes.
Over time, Paisley’s railway network evolved dramatically. While Gilmour Street remained the town’s primary station, some lines did not survive into the modern era. Notably:

The G&SWR line from Princes Pier (Greenock) to St Enoch (Glasgow) via Paisley Canal closed in 1983, ending direct services on this route. However, part of the Canal line was later reopened, providing a commuter link between Glasgow Central and Paisley Canal.

The Caledonian Railway’s mainline through Gilmour Street survived and continues to operate today as the ScotRail services to Ayrshire, Wemyss Bay, and Gourock.

Thus, while Gilmour Street retained its role as Paisley’s key station, the G&SWR route via Paisley Canal was lost, whereas the Caledonian Railway's lines remained an essential part of Scotland’s rail network.

2. The Missing Post Office: A Future Landmark

One of the most striking omissions from the 1888 scene is the Post Office, which had not yet been constructed. Instead, the location where the Post Office would later stand was occupied by a fenced railway goods yard, belonging to the railway company. This yard was a bustling hub of activity, used for the loading and unloading of freight.

▪️ Cowan & Co, visible in the photograph, were major carting contractors for the North British Railway Company, facilitating the movement of goods between railways and local businesses.
▪️ The yard played a crucial role in industrial logistics, handling shipments of textiles, whisky, and machinery—key industries of Paisley.
▪️ The decision to build the Post Office on this site highlights how transport and communication networks were being integrated during the late Victorian era.

With the rise of the railway postal service, many towns strategically placed their post offices near railway stations, ensuring quick dispatch and collection of mail. The Paisley Post Office, once constructed, became an essential part of this network, linking the town’s commercial activities to national and international markets.

3. Industrial Paisley: A Town Driven by Manufacturing and Trade

By 1888, Paisley was one of Scotland’s most industrialised towns, renowned for its manufacturing prowess. The economy was dominated by several key industries, all of which relied heavily on railway transport:

▪️ Thread Manufacturing – Paisley was world-famous for its textile industry, led by J. & P. Coats and Clark & Co. These companies used the railway to transport vast quantities of thread and fabric to markets across Britain and overseas.
▪️ Whisky Distilling – Several distilleries operated in Paisley, with whisky being shipped from the railway yards to Glasgow and beyond for export.
▪️ Iron Foundries & Engineering – With growing demand for industrial machinery and railway components, Paisley’s engineering sector was thriving.
▪️ Shipbuilding Connections – Though major shipyards were located in Glasgow and Clydebank, Paisley contributed to the industry through metalworks, timber supplies, and skilled labour.

With freight trains constantly moving raw materials and finished products, Gilmour Street Station was more than just a passenger hub—it was a lifeline for Paisley’s economy. The 1888 photograph, showing horse-drawn wagons transporting goods from the railway yard, captures this vital aspect of daily life.

4. The Role of Hansom Cabs and Pre-Tram Transport

Before electric trams revolutionised urban transport in the early 20th century, towns like Paisley relied on horse-drawn vehicles for local travel. The presence of two hansom cabs in the 1888 photograph provides insight into transport options available at the time.

▪️ Hansom cabs were a common sight outside railway stations, offering an efficient way for travellers to reach their final destinations.
▪️ The horses used for both cabs and freight wagons were an essential part of the town’s transport network, requiring stables, blacksmiths, and feed suppliers.
▪️ Discussions about introducing a tram system were already taking place in the 1880s, although electric trams wouldn’t appear in Paisley until 1903.

The reliance on horse-drawn transport highlights how urban travel was slow, expensive, and dependent on road conditions—challenges that would eventually lead to major public transport reforms.

5. Holy Trinity Church: A Gothic Landmark in the Background

One of the most visually striking elements in the 1888 photograph is Holy Trinity Church, whose spired gable rises in the background. Built in 1831, the church was designed by James Gillespie Graham, a prominent Scottish architect known for his Gothic Revival style.

▪️ Holy Trinity was an Anglican (Episcopalian) church, standing out in a town that was predominantly Presbyterian.
▪️ Its presence in the photograph contrasts the modern railway infrastructure with traditional religious architecture, symbolising the coexistence of past and present in Paisley.
▪️ The church remains an important historical landmark, reflecting Paisley’s diverse religious and cultural history.

6. The Future of Gilmour Street: Electrification and Beyond

The years following 1888 saw further transformation of Gilmour Street Station and its surroundings:

▪️ 1903 – Paisley introduced its first electric trams, changing urban mobility.
▪️ 1912 – Additional railway upgrades improved services, reinforcing Gilmour Street’s status as the town’s central station.
▪️ 1923 – The merger of railway companies into LMS (London, Midland & Scottish Railway) ended the long rivalry between G&SWR and the Caledonian Railway.
▪️ 1960s – Electrification of Scottish railways modernised Gilmour Street’s infrastructure, allowing for faster and more efficient train services.

Today, Gilmour Street remains Paisley’s busiest railway station, a testament to its historical importance and continued relevance in Scotland’s transport network.

Conclusion: A Moment in Time, A Town in Transition

The 1888 photograph of Gilmour Street Station captures a Paisley in transition—a town shaped by railways, industry, and evolving urban landscapes. The station’s expansion symbolised the town’s growth, while the soon-to-be-built Post Office represented the increasing importance of communication and logistics.

From the hansom cabs and goods wagons to the towering spire of Holy Trinity Church, every element in the image tells a story of a town balancing tradition and modernisation. Today, Paisley’s industrial past may have faded, but Gilmour Street remains a lasting symbol of its historic significance and resilience.

26/02/2025

This photo from Paisley Thread Mill Museum cataloguing is from 1972 and was taken from Mill No.2, Flat 3 at Ferguslie. The machinery was moved in and out via this space, highlighting the mill’s design to accommodate large-scale industrial equipment.

Ferguslie Mills, part of Paisley’s renowned textile industry, was a key site for thread manufacturing under J. & P. Coats, one of the world’s largest thread producers. By the 20th century, these mills employed thousands of workers, contributing significantly to the town’s economic and social fabric. The mills were built with carefully designed infrastructure, including pulley systems, hoists, and access points, to facilitate the movement of heavy machinery used in spinning, twisting, and dyeing processes.

By the time this photo was taken in 1972, the industry was already in decline, with automation and global competition reducing the workforce. Many of the original mill buildings have since been demolished, but their legacy remains a crucial part of Paisley’s industrial heritage.

Today’s image from the cataloguing is from 1972 and was taken from Mill no2, flat 3 at Ferguslie. The machinery was moved in and out via this space.

26/02/2025

It's incredible to see that people are still supporting and donating to our crowdfunder! Your generosity and belief in our project mean so much, and we’re truly grateful for every contribution. Thank you for helping us make this vision a reality!

https://www.gofundme.com/f/building-our-heritage-hub

26/02/2025

🎙️🎥 Voices of Paisley Past – Join Our Podcast/Documentary Project! 🎬✨

Are you a young creative interested in working with cameras, sound recording, and interviewing a wide range of people? This is your chance to be part of "Voices of Paisley Past"—an exciting Podcast/Documentary Project exploring the rich history and untold stories of Paisley!

📅 Starts: 24th February
⏰ Time: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: 14 William Street - Paisley - PA1 2LZ

No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and curiosity! Ready to capture the voices of the past and bring them to life? Drop us a message or comment below to get involved! 🎧🎬

26/02/2025

Fabulous view over Dunn Square with the rear of The Victory theatre in Smithhills Street. What other details stand out?

25/02/2025

Update on events

25/02/2025

Image 1
In the latter years of the nineteenth century Clarks' employed many workers in the production of cotton thread.
The vast majority of this workforce was female, with only a small proportion of men to work on such things as machine maintenance, the dyeing of the yarn, and the urning of the wooden bobbins.
Here we see the girls leaving the mills via Clarks' own private bridge over the Cart. (currently located further up the river away from the former Mill building when it was converted to. Apartments) walking along Lonend towards the town centre.
They are wearing the skirt, blouse and check shawl that was said to be typical of the nineteenth century mill girls. Notice also that they all wear their hair tightly scraped back to minimise the chance of it being caught up in the machinery.

Image 2
This is the same view taken probably some twenty years later. The girls in the thread mills were always fairly well paid in comparison with other girl workers in the town, and here we see that their standard of living has evidently been improved in the intervening years. Now they seem to be wearing smart suits to and from work, and these are made to look even more fashionable by the addition of the large hats of the period.

25/02/2025

This photo-montage shows the six most famous Paisley 'characters' in the setting of County Square. They are from left to right: Daunie Weir, seller of religious texts and other street literature; The Juck, Or the Duck, whose real name was Thomas Donald, and who got his nickname from his broad feet and waddling gait; William McAllister, 'the Charleston Puddock", was a chimney sweep who had been badly deformed after a fall; William Brodie, known as Heather Jock or. Jock the Rat, amused the surrounding country folk by travelling about singing to them; Hungry Jamie (James Menzies) was famous for the number of times he appeared in court on breach of the peace charges; Willie Love, a harmless half-wit, who wrote his autobiography in 1857 and supported himself hawking copies of it.