A window on a political hero

A memorial window depicting the life and times of the political reformer was unveiled at Cadder Parish Church, in Bishopbriggs - where Thomas Muir was an elder.

The church congregation and local community worked hard to raise funds for the window, with grants and donations from a range of individuals and organisations.

It was commissioned to coincide with this year’s special celebrations by the Friends of Thomas Muir to commemorate the 250th anniversary of his birth and mark Muir’s significance as a local historic figure.

Muir’s family were originally from Birdston, Kirkintilloch, and his father bought Huntershill House and estate in Bishopbriggs in 1782.

The memorial window is comprised of two panels - one commemorating Muir’s life in Scotland and another focusing on his work after his banishment for advocating democratic principles.

Muir’s strong links to East Dunbartonshire are celebrated every year by the Friends of Thomas Muir who organise a festival in his memory, supported by East Dunbartonshire Council.

National Co-ordinator and Chair of the Friends of Thomas Muir, Jimmy Watson, said that he was “delighted” that the church had commissioned artist Anita Pate to create the window.

He added: “Reverend Graham Finch first floated the idea of a possible Thomas Muir Memorial Window during the inaugural Thomas Muir Festival in 2010.

“It’s now a beautiful reality that we hope will bring great pleasure to many for generations to come.”

Provost Una Walker attended the unveiling with the Rev Graham Finch, Advocate Iain McSporran (Glasgow Bar Association), Professor Gerard Carruthers (University of Glasgow) and John Nicolson MP all paying tribute to Muir - known as the ‘Father of Scottish Democracy’.

Provost Walker said: “The unveiling of the memorial window at Cadder Parish Church was a very special occasion and it is a wonderful tribute to such a key historic figure.”