Coatbridge boasts a rich history and heritage that locals can take great pride in. Today, we’re diving into the town’s story during its industrial heyday.
Although Coatbridge rose to prominence during the Industrial Revolution, the area’s history stretches much further back. Evidence shows that people have lived here long before the Romans, with settlements dating back to the Mesolithic era over 3,000 years ago. One fascinating discovery was made in 1852, when a circle of Bronze Age coffins was unearthed at Drumpellier Estate.
The name "Coatbridge" itself comes from a bridge that once carried the old Edinburgh-Glasgow road over the Gartsherrie Burn, at what is now Coatbridge Cross. The earliest reference to it appears in a 1755 survey, where it’s listed as "Cottbrig," part of the broader Coats estate. The name "Coats" likely originates from the Scots word "cot(t)," meaning "cottage," though some believe it may be linked to the Colt family, who owned land here from the 13th century onward.
By the late 18th century, the area transitioned from a scattered collection of hamlets into the town of Coatbridge. Its growth and transformation were closely tied to the technological advancements of the Industrial Revolution. In the 19th century, Coatbridge became a powerhouse of ironworks and coal mining, earning the title of the "industrial heartland of Scotland" and the "Iron Burgh."
Some of these images were supplied via CultureNL - to find more pictures and stories about your local history, heritage, and more, visit the CultureNL collections.
Here are 15 old photographs that capture the changing face of Coatbridge and everyday life in the town throughout the years.
5. Coatbridge
An insight into Coatbridge life. | The Scotsman
6. For the Children’s Sake DESTROY The Liquor Traffic (Circa. 1912)
Photograph of a temperance movement demonstration in Coatbridge around 1912. These movements were popular both with employers and the church - a successful temperance movement was seen in Kirkintilloch, which was a ‘dry town’ that outlawed the sale of alcohol from 1923 to 1967. | CultureNL
7. Steel Workers (1917)
Workers at the Waverly Steelworks pose for a picture - steel mill work was a protected job for the war effort, meaning the men were expected to continue their work rather fight on the front lines - many of these young men would have brothers, friends, family, and even fathers in some cases fighting on the western front when this photo was taken. | CultureNL
8. Coatbridge Co-op employees (Circa.1920)
Employees of Coatbridge Co-operative Society shop Branch No 11 (Muiryhall Street) standing in front of the shop. | CultureNL