Down Memory Lane

In with the bricks: With our news story that Caradale Brickworks was closing, we asked readers to share their photographs of life there and Archie Hainnan, now 78, brought in a selection of photos from his retiral. That was in 1998, after he had worked there for 49 years. The company started life as the Coltness Iron Company; it became Coltness Industries, and then, when taken over by Lithgow, it became Caradale, a merger of the names Carluke and Armadale where the company also had works. “That’s where the name came from,” he said. Looking back, he said: “It was a job and the wages weren’t that bad – but they weren’t that good either!” Archie reckons about 50 people were working there when he retired in June 1998. He received a watch and equipment for his garden as farewell presents.

50 YEARS AGO

n The second annual dinner of Carluke Business Womens Club took place in the Royal Oak Hotel, in Lanark.

n It was suggested by the county council to close Yieldshields School as the county council had been unable to fill the head teacher vacancy.

n Kirkton Church Drama Club members proved their versatility by performing three one act plays at the Welfare Hall.

n Carluke Primrose Flute Band held its annual social and dance in the band hall. Councillor Murphy presented a new trophy, on behalf of the Scottish Amateur Flute Band Association, to be named after one of the band’s founders, Thomas Murphy.

n Mr William Duguid won a Volkswagon by correctly estimating the time it would take for 40 gallons of paraffin to drain from an oil drum. It took seven hours, eight minutes and 33 seconds.

n Members of Braidwood WRI held a successful whist drive in aid of children and old folks parties.

n Lanark Rugby Club were in fine scoring form after beating Uddingston 30-10.

100 YEARS AGO

n The Rev RM Dickson was the speaker at the opening meeting of the Lanark YMCA. He was said to have given a speech on the battles young men face through life, including with alcohol.

n Lanark Bachelors held their annual dance in St Mary’s Hall. Over 40 couples were present.

n An unemployed man appeared at Lanark Sheriff Court charged with poaching. The Sheriff released him from the court with an admonishment.

n A huge storm engulfed Clydesdale. Many buildings were damaged and even New Lanark saw displaced slates and chimney pots.

n Scott’s Electric Pictures was due to visit Carluke Town Hall. There was great excitement at the prospect of seeing various films.

n Home Rule was the topic of discussion at Carnwath’s Literary Society’s latest discussion. Mr Christie supported the bill while Mr Lawrie led the negative side.

n Law Volunteers faced Burnbank Athletic in the Lanarkshire League First Division. The game was abandoned with 18 minutes to go as it was too dark!