A History of

CLYDEBANK

Co-operative Society Ltd.

by WILLIAM E. LAWSON

Printed by S.C.W.S. LTD., PRINTING DEPARTMENT, SHIELDHALL, GLASGOW

Contents

FOREWORD 1

INTRODUCTION 2

PIONEERING DAYS 5

SEMI-JUBILEE 45

THE GREAT WAR 58

JUBILEE 80

THE WORLD WAR 89

PRESENT AND FUTURE 99

EPILOGUE 102

LIST OF PRESIDENTS 103

GENERAL MANAGERS 104

PROGRESS STATISTICS 104

INDEX 105

List of Illustrations

THE PIONEERS 8

JUBILEE BOARD 8

FIRST PRESIDENT 9

OFFICIALS 24

PIONEER MEN’S GUILD 25

WOMEN’S GUILD PRESIDENTS 25

HUME STREET BUILDING 40

CENTRAL DRAPERY 41

COACHES-OLD AND NEW 56

CENTRAL PREMISES 57

THE “QUEEN MARY” 72

SINGER’S CLOCK 73

NEW SHOPS AT FLEMING AVENUE 88

SELF-SERVICE 89

MR. MURRAY D. BROWN 98-99

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT, 1949 98-99

FACTORY OF D. & J. TULLIS LTD. 98-99

U.C.B.S. BISCUIT FACTORY 98-99

Foreword

The narrative which is presented to you is the struggle of an industrial town to overcome the

adversities of life and an endeavour to secure a measure of prosperity for the people within its

community. We are indebted to the narrator for the fine literary style he has introduced into

his work and for the accuracy of the historical facts he relates. Coupled with the advancement

of the town as a great shipbuilding and engineering centre he portrays the development of the

Clydebank Co-operative Society, and brings to the reader’s attention the people’s deep

interest in mutual trading and their business capacity to provide for immediate needs and

future requirements. Indeed, the present generation is reaping a rich reward from the

endeavours and enterprise of their parents. The town has not a traditional background like

many other towns in Scotland because of its recent origin. It was only established as a Burgh

in 1886, and many people are still alive who were present in its formation. In the gradual

growth of its institutions it brought together many thousands of people from all parts of the

British Isles. This influx gave new energy and initiative to the community because it brought

with it the arts, crafts, and culture of a variety of people. Therefore, they designed, built, and

fitted these great ships of the world-wide reputation for sea worthiness, and sent their

engineering products to every corner of the earth. Their culture is very high and can be

measured by the large number of musical, dramatic, social, and educational organisations

which have been formed by themselves. This is an intriguing story of endeavour and

achievement.

THOMAS DAVIDSON

December 1948 Provost

Introduction

Any stranger strolling on the green of north bank of the river Clyde just 80 years ago might

pardonably have inquired: “Where is Clydebank?” Industrialism, with its cranes and

crankshafts, had not yet invaded the peaceful pastures seven miles from Glasgow. Only the

shrill cry of the seagulls soaring beside the ships that sailed on the river and the soft rural

sounds from farmyards and fields broke the quietness of the pastoral scene that was

Clydebank, or Barns o’ Clyde as it was then known.

Most Scottish towns boast that their roots go far back into the country’s history.

Some have existed for a thousand years. The fate of a few has been to decay. Others have

ignored the influences of the outer world and stayed static. Many have marched steadily and

unspectacularly, growing slowly with the development of the machine age. A number of

towns of belated birth lay no claims to historical fame, no associations with the early kings or

martyrs, but with the vigour of youth have grasped the opportunities offered by the industrial

developments of the late 19th

century and prospered with a speed that has outstripped the

ancients. Such a town in Clydebank. So rapid was its growth, particularly in the first decade

of this century, when the population leapt from 18,000 to 39,000 between 1901 and 1911,

that it became popularly known in the Press as “The ‘Risingest’ Burgh.”

Clydebank owes both its origin and its mushroom growth mainly to the ships that

have brought it worldly fame. First buildings to rise from its fields were the sheds around the

slipways. First sounds to replace the gentle rattle of the reaping machines was the clanging of

the riveters’ hammers as they built the first ocean greyhounds. The first workers crossed the

Clyde from Govan when the brothers George and James Thomson, compelled to seek a new

yard, selected with foresight a spot where the Cart joins forces with the Clyde. That was in

1871. Some of the workmen lived and slept and ate in a large bothy beside the slipway,

others travelled daily from Glasgow in the Vulcan-a small steamer provided by the firm, for

public transport facilities were primitive. Within a year, however, the Thomson brothers

decided that it would be in their interests, as well as those of their workers, to provide houses,

and towards the end of 1872 the first block of dwellings was erected. To-day, familiarly

known as “Thomson’s Buildings,” they still stand-that block on the south side of Glasgow

Road backing John Brown & Company’s shipyard. The four-storey tenement at the yard was

the nucleus of a new town that was to grow with unprecedented speed, and it was their

inhabitants, the employees of Thomson’s (who later sold to Brown’s), who formed the

Clydebank Co-operative Society, about which this book is written.

Ten years were to pass, however, before that memorable day, and in the intervening

decade the foundations of the town were further secured by the advent of other industries,

including the transference of Messrs. Thomson’s engine works from Finnieston.

As more and more workers joined the little community the need for a building to

meet the social needs of the people became apparent, and in 1873 there was erected the hall

that became known as the “Tarry Kirk.” A wooden erection, its uses were multifarious.

During the day it was a cooking depot, in the evening it served as a dance and concert and

soiree hall, and on Sunday it met the needs of the various religious denominations.

It was in the “Tarry Kirk” that the shipbuilders met and decided to form the Co-

operative organisation that has been a boon to the community throughout the past 80 years.

The following pages tell a story of courage and faith, enterprise and enthusiasm, and all who

are fair-minded will concede that without the influence and endeavours of the co-operators

Clydebank and its citizens would not have emerged so strongly from the many ordeals that

have beset them and their burgh.

1. Genesis

What others could do they could do. That logical and confident conclusion was reached by

the shipbuilders of Clydebank when some of their number, who had already experienced the

benefits of Co-operation in other communities, broached the idea of conducting their own

shop. Work had just begun in producing the first of the famous family of Cunard ships, the

Bothnia; trade was good; a Co-operative store had been operating successfully for a year in

neighbouring Dalmuir. Why, asked Thomson’s workers, should they continue buying their

requirements from the grocery store inside the yard when they could purchase cheaper by

running their own shop?

Those workers from Govan were particularly steeped in the Co-operative tradition,

for had their predecessors in the shipyards there not pioneered the trail in Scotland - indeed,

in Britain-as far back as 1777?

The first idea was to seek a branch shop from Dalmuir, where a society had been

born following the accidental discovery by a youth of deception by a local grocer, who sold

butterine (the old name for margarine) as butter. With only a year’s experience behind them,

however, the Dalmuir co-operators did not consider themselves strong enough to buy

premises to cater for their Clydebank members. Instead, a Dalmuir man, James Balfour,

suggested the formation of a separate society. His advice was accepted. At the meeting in the

“Tarry Kirk” in April 1881 sub-committees were appointed-one to draft a code of rules, the

other to find suitable premises.

Framing the rules was easy. Securing a shop was not so simple. This and other

responsibilities provoked doubts in the minds of some of the pioneers and they suggested a

year’s delay. Those fears were not shared at all, however, and when the provisional secretary,

James Hempseed, received an unexpectedly favourable reply from a factor to his inquiries

about a shop he quickly accepted the offer, leaving his colleagues no alternative but to go

ahead with the project. Prompt and courageous decisions are the basis of successful business

ventures, and Hempseed was the first of the many who by their enthusiasm and foresight

have been responsible for the remarkable growth of the Society born on 20th

May 1881.

The mixture of the inaugural meeting bears that date, and the following extract tells

what transpired:

After several preliminary meetings at which a sub-committee was appointed

for the purpose of drawing up a code of rules, securing a shop, and collecting money

for shares for intending members, a meeting of subscribing members was called for

this evening in Lesser Clydebank Hall, for the purpose of passing the rules are revised

by Committee, electing office-bearers and Committee, and any other business that

may be brought up. Mr. Richard Livingston was called to the chair . . . .

The Secretary then proceeded to read the alterations that it was proposed to

make on the Dalmuir Society’s rules, and, with the following alterations, it was

agreed upon unanimously to adopt them as a whole, altering names of places, etc., to

suit Clydebank . . .

It was moved . . . “No member shall be allowed to hold more than 100

shares in this Society.”

“The form of the seal shall be an oval stamp, with the words ‘Clydebank Co-

operative Society’ round the edge, and a figure of justice with a sword in the right

hand and a balance in the left as a device in the centre.”

It was also moved, seconded, and carried that Mr. James Hamilton, 182

Trongate, Glasgow, be empowered to print 200 copies of rules.

A letter was read from the Scottish Co-operative Wholesale Society inviting a

deputation of this Society to meet them on Saturday afternoon. Mr. Richard

Livingston, Mr. William Hannah, and Mr. John Murray were elected for that

deputation.

In this simple fashion the foundations of a new Co-operative society were

firmly laid. At that same meeting the men were appointed to control is destinies,

and in steering it round the rocks they proved as able captains as they were builders of

ships. The 11 pioneers, were:-

RICHARD LIVIGNSTON, President.

WILLIAM HANNAH, Treasurer.

JAMES HEMPSEED, Secretary.

JOHN TURNBULL, Committeeman.

ALEXANDER CLARK, “

PETER CANDLIN, “

GEORGE HOSIE, “

ALEXANDER M’LEAN, “

ALEXANDER HOWIE, “

JOHN MURRAY, “

THOMAS CURRIE “

Empowered by the members to engage a salesman, the Committee lost no time, and

a week later Mr. James M’Kie, a Glasgow grocer, was appointed as the Society’s first

employee. His wage was 30s. per week and he had to deposit a security of £20. He asked no

interest against his security for the first quarter, but gave his first glimpse of business acumen

by insisting upon a bonus equivalent to the dividend.

A message boy, Archibald Auchincloss, was also engaged. The minute of the

second meeting records that his wage was to be 10s. a week, but that the impression of

generosity is corrected in a later minute, which states that he was paid 6s. for the first

fortnight and thereafter 3s. 6d. per week.

SALESMAN OBJECTS

The modern shopman would shudder at the hours of business - 70 ½ per week;

daily from 8 a.m. till 7.30 p.m. except Fridays and Saturdays, when the closing hour was 10

p.m. There were daily breaks for breakfast of half-an-hour and for dinner of one hour. No

mention is made of tea interval. It was no small wonder that within a week of starting the

salesman lodged an objection about his hours of duty. The poor fellow’s protest touched no

soft chords in the Committee’s heart. Instead they sternly impressed upon him that it would

be in the interest of the Society as well as of himself if he could take breakfast in the shop and

not close it in the morning at all! He was relieved, however, of doing business in Glasgow,

the Committee undertaking the duty of purchasing the essentials for carrying on the shop.

Three “Alecs” – M’Lean, Clark, and Howie-were giving the duties of shop

committee and of acting as general superintendents of the shop during the first quarter.

The first Committee meeting took place in the shop situated at the corner of

Dumbarton (now Glasgow) Road and Canal Street. (To-day it is a newspaper office.)

To spread the good news of Co-operation’s coming, 400 copies of a circular were

distributed among the town’s 3,000 inhabitants. A copy of the rules was sent to the Registrar;

a somewhat flexible “no credit trading” resolution was passed; and it was decided to ask the

supervisor at Bowling for a tobacco licence. Early on it was decided to buy the Scottish Co-

operative Wholesale Society.

Although the shop was busy enough, no great interest was shown by the population

in the democratic opportunities offered to customers of controlling their own business, and at

the June monthly meeting only two members, apart from the Committee, turned up, so it had

to be adjourned.

Staffing troubles soon reared their awkward head, and within two months both the

original employees had gone. It was decided to dispense with the services of the salesman,

while the message boy intimated that he was returning to school. Next salesman, William

Robertson from Kirkcaldy, received only 24s. a week, but the new message boy was more

fortunate than his predecessor, being rewarded with 7s. 6d. weekly.

The first dozen copies of the Co-operative News had been ordered and sold to the members at

½ d. each, including delivery, but the new message boy soon rebelled against having to

deliver the newspapers on Saturday mornings without remuneration. He won his point, and

was granted 3d. extra.

BUSINESS PROSPERS

Despite those troubles the business prospered, and in their first quarterly report and

balance-sheet the Committee made this statement to the members:-

In presenting you with the first report and balance-sheet your Committee think that

under all the circumstances it is very favourable. The profits after all necessary

expenses are allowed for, gives a dividend of 1s. 3d. per £, and they have good hopes

that if backed by the members it will be better next quarter. The sales for the latter

half of the period have been about double the amount they were in the first, and they

may be still further increased without any increase in the working expenses. Your

Committee would therefore hope that all the members will see it to be their duty to

consistently support their own store, and do all they can to add to the list of members.

The present number of members is 56, and the average purchase per member per

week is 13s. 6d.

Unanimous assent was given at the first quarterly meeting on 4th

August to take out

40 shares in the Scottish Co-operative Wholesale Society. Thus began a loyalty to the wider

Co-operative Movement that has never faltered. Purchases from the Wholesale Society

during the first quarter amounted to £271 18s. 8d., which, on a dividend of 6d. per £, gave a

welcome return to £6 16s. to small concern.

Encouraged by the success of the first quarter’s operations the members decided to

launch out into additional enterprises. To the sale of groceries, butchermeat, and

greengroceries they added footwear and coal to their services, and decided to launch out into

additional enterprises. To the sale of groceries, butchermeat, and greengroceries they added

footwear and coal to their services, and decided to take orders for clothing. Some of the more

daring spirits even suggested by the end of the year that the Society should build its own

premises. Investigations were made, but the Committee decided against the advisability of

such a bold step. The suggestion showed, however, as did the appointment of another

employee, that the shipbuilders of Clydebank could launch a Co-operative society just as

successfully as they could send a ship down the slipway.

II. Troubled Waters

Acrimonious discussions over members’ debts and shop losses marred many of meetings on

the advent of the new year. In framing the constitution the pioneers had stipulated that no

credit be given to members whose shares were not full paid, but discretionary power had been

left with the Committee to give credit to any member for whom an individual committeeman

guaranteed responsibility, provided the credit granted did not exceed the amount paid in. It is

hard to refuse friends, however and the rule does not appear to have been applied too rigidly.

Despite a warning against the dangers of giving credit uttered at a meeting in January by Mr.

Robert Barrowman, the traveller for the S.C.W.S., and subsequent stern measures against

those in debt for the supply of coals, the Committee found it hard to control the practice as so

many other traders were in the habit of “obliging” customers. Disclosure in the second

balance-sheet, dated 23rd

February, of a “leakage” of £52-or £30 over the shopman’s

allowance-brought matters to a head. The books were sent to the S.C.W.S. for scrutiny, and

there was a series of special meetings at which some scathing and pointed remarks were

passed. Mr. Hempseed took offence following a difference of opinion with other members of

the Committee and he resigned. The salesman was replaced by another, a Mr. Beckitt from

Paisley Provident Society. These disputes had an upsetting effect on the running of the shop,

and at one meeting strong threats that they would withdraw their money and cease buying

their goods if the delivery service did not improve were made by a number of members. That

particular problem was overcome by engaging another boy to deliver messages, the new

shopman gave satisfaction, and the return of Mr. Hempseed to the position of secretary

restored the Society to an even keel.

Commencement of an association with the United Co-operative Baking Society of Glasgow

was an event that had happy consequences in later years for both the local Society and the

Burgh of Clydebank. Mr. Alexander Howie moved that as a trial six dozen loaves be ordered.

Satisfaction was apparently given, as on 6th

April the same gentleman tabled a motion in

favour of affiliation with the U.C.B.S., and it received unanimous support.

Equal accord greeted a proposal by Mr. Hempseed that dividend be paid only on a cash paid

and not on purchases.

At the second pay-out of surplus profits the dividend was 1s. 4d. per £, and the report

revealed that membership had risen to 65, average sales per week to £62, and that working

expenses were 1s. 0 ¼ d. per £.

The dividend might not have been so high had a rather surprising suggestion by Mr.

Alexander M’Lean been adopted-that coal be retailed at cost price. That would have been

taking the fight to the private traders with a vengeance. It is unfortunate that no record of the

discussion on this motion is available. It was defeated, however, a counter proposal for a

profit of 1s. per ton to the Society, put forward by Mr. John Murray, being favoured by the

members.

Holding of the Society’s first soiree, at Dalmuir, was one of the happier events in a trying

year.

EDUCATION BEGINS

Narrowness of vision is a failing not unknown in some sectors of the Co-operative

Movement, but even since the early days it has not been a characteristic of the Clydebank co-

operators. That readiness to link up with the wider Movement, instanced by the early

decisions to affiliate with the two large Scottish productive federations, the S.C.W.S and the

U.C.B.S., was again manifest when a proposal to join the membership of the Co-operative

Union was placed on the agenda. Without dissent that step was taken.

Early in 1883, too, that interest in national affairs was demonstrated by the making of the first

grant (10s.) to the National Congress reception committee.

Prompted by a question from Central Board educational committee as to what was being

done to educate the members in Co-operative principles and to propagate the ideals of the

Movement, the Society set aside £1 to inaugurate an educational fund. For the first time, too,

a reserve fund was instituted, and the allocation was also £1.

Taking out shares in proportion to the number of members in the local organisation marked a

strengthening of the bond with the S.C.W.S. The Wholesale Society, however, was not

immune from criticism, and the return of “an unworthy piece of furniture” to the Glasgow

warehouse is recorded.

Paraffin lamps had been used to illuminate the shops, but the Committee decided the time had

arrived for more modern methods, and a Renfrew plumber was engaged to install gas

lighting. There was some dissatisfaction with the state of repair of the shop, and the Secretary

was instructed to write “a smart letter” to the factor. The exact terms of this note are not

known, but it contained a threat that the Committee would carry out the repairs and send the

bill to the factor.

Throughout the year several attempts were made to have a compulsory increase in the

number of shares held by each member. Ultimately a special meeting was convened to debate

the proposal, but, although a majority of the members were in favour, that old familiar

“bogey,” the three-fourths majority rule, late the motion low.

BATTLE ROYAL

Coal continued to be the subject of some warm discussions. Purchasers who resided more

than one mile from the shop were none too pleased when they were made to pay extra

cartage. Coal carting led to a battle royal between the Committee and a well-known local

contractor and character, “Jock” Watson. The said “Jock” challenged the accuracy of an

account, “threeping” for payment of 49 tons as against 35 tons checked by the Committee,

After giving vent to some lurid language, including a threat to take legal action, “Jock”

accepted a compromise, being “squared with £3,” as the report puts it.

Soon after his election to the chairmanship, William Thomson, the original vice-president,

left the district to follow his trade, and after two months’ absence from the Committee’s

deliberation’s he was replaced.

Shortly afterwards, after hearing speech about the chairman’s duties and responsibilities, the

members decided that their president, Richard Livingston, should be paid the princely sun of

5s. per quarter for his services. Obviously, the voluntary spirit was very strong in those days,

and even the hard-working secretary was remunerated only to the extent of ½ d. per member

per week. As the membership was just 79 at the end of the ninth quarter it will be noticed that

his reward was not rich.

In support of local business the decision was taken to transfer the Society’s banking account

from the Union Bank, Renfrew, to the local branch of the British Linen Bank.

Choosing calendars for Christmas distribution was regarded as no light matter in the old days,

and memories of a one-time famous stage beauty are recalled by the Committee’s decision to

order 125 “ Lillie Langtry’s” to adorn the homes of Clydebank co-operators. First fruits of the

educational enterprise were also apparent at the festive season when it was agreed to

distribute free copies of the Christmas number of the Co-operative News to stimulate interest

in the Movement’s wider spheres.

III. Havoc by Rats

One of those industrial depressions that have fallen upon Clydebank with unfortunate

regularity throughout the years descended in the fourth year of the Society’s existence, but its

adverse effects on trade generally were not reflected in the sales of the Co-operative

organisation. On the other hand, it appeared to create in the community a wider realisation of

the benefits of mutual trading, and the records show regular weekly admissions that brought

the membership to the century mark for the first time. A donation of £5 for the relief of the

unemployed also commended the Co-operative Movement to the working class of the town.

An indication of progress was the repeated proposals for larger premises, the

suggestion of some of the bolder members being that new premises should be built. The

demand for better shopping facilities became so insistent that the Committee agreed to

consult leading Scottish co-operators for advice on the project. Mr. T. Slater., secretary of the

U.C.B.S., attended a meeting at which he detailed the experiences of various other societies

before expressing the opinion that the Society’s financial resources did not warrant

immediate action, but that they should “keep a lookout” with a view to building better

premises when more capital was available. Enlargement of the original shop and transfer to

other premises in Elgin Place were other proposals mooted but rejected.

An invasion of rats had prompted the idea of removal. Great damage was done for a

considerable time by the vermin. On several occasions goods to the value of over £1 were

lost in a single night. The shop being situated near the canal made the raids of the rodents

difficult to check, and the Committeemen sighed for a Pied Piper to relieve their perplexity.

Links with the wider Movement continued to strengthen. More shares were taken

out in the U.C.B.S., making the total held 75, and the right of the Society to have a

representative upon the Baking Society’s directorate was intimated. Mr. Thomas Keenan was

appointed, thus beginning an unbroken association with the federation’s management board.

Ten shares were taken out in the Paisley Manufacturing Society, then the oldest Co-

operative productive federation in the world.

The matter of Co-operative insurance also received attention, following a

communication form the insurance organisation appointing Clydebank Society to act as agent

on their behalf in the district. After some discussion the duty of setting the scheme in motion

was entrusted to the president, Mr. Alexander Howie, on the understanding that no fee would

be paid by Clydebank, the only remuneration to be in the form of commission, if any.

A commendable gesture was the decision to grant 10s. from the profits of two

North of England societies, Thornley and Wheatly Hall, in a response to an appeal for aid.

While able to give financial help aid to others the Clydebank co-operators were not

averse to receiving assistance, in the shape of advice from outside sources, and following the

reading of a paper by Mr. Kater of the Vale of Leven Society on the subject instituting a

penny bank it was decided to inaugurate such a department.

Another progressive venture was the introduction of a loan system. Lively passages

occurred over the question of who should pay the 6d. agreement stamp. According to law it

had to be paid by the lender, but the legal requirements were imperfectly understood by at

least one member, who in his anxiety to saddle the wrong horse persistently kept asking the

question: “What gets the loan?”

History does not record a tobacco shortage in the late ‘80s, but for some

unexplained reason that had nothing to do with the economy the members decreed by a

majority that no smoking be permitted at the monthly meetings, thus making a departure from

erstwhile free-and-easy routine.

AN EFFECTIVE CURE

Leakage has caused furrows on many a Co-operative committeeman’s brow, and

losses became so serious that some hard thinking was done in the early days of 1885. After

pondering the problem the conclusion was reached that to encourage more care and economy

on the part of the shop staff an inducement in the form of a bonus to all employees should be

given. With some cunning the bonus was fixed at the same figure as the dividend, with the

proviso that it would be paid only when the leakage was less the 1 ¼ per cent. No doctor

could have diagnosed the trouble more accurately or supplied such an effective cure. The

excessive losses stopped immediately, and the dividend rose to the unprecedented height of

half-a-crown.

OUT OF POCKET

Most men who break ground on ventures destined to help humanity give ungrudgingly of

their time, labour, and thought to secure that success which they consider their best reward.

The Clydebank pioneers were was unselfish and earnest as any. Practically without fee, and

on occasion out-of-pocket, early Committees worked diligently on behalf of the Co-operative

principle. With the coming of a measure of prosperity, however, there emerged a feeling that

those who served the Society should not suffer financially because of their work for the

Movement, and a motion was eventually submitted “ That all delegates sent by this Society to

attend meetings or transact business for its benefit be paid third-class travelling fare and one

shilling expenses. If in working hours the delegates be paid for time lost.” That proposal did

not seem unreasonable, but many meetings passed and many arguments took place before it

was finally passed.

Most spontaneous was the generosity shown towards a proposal that one shilling be

deducted from the members’ net dividend to defray the expenses of a trip for the juveniles

associated with the Penny Bank.

Favourable decisions were given towards two new Co-operative projects - the

establishment of a large central bakehouse by the U.C.B.S. in or near Glasgow and the

formation of a federal drapery society. Support for the drapery was probably influenced by

the statement that it was “certain to prove a success.” At a later stage the Society was invited

to provide a Board member for the new drapery, and Mr. Alexander Howie was appointed.

Development of the clothing trade was also indicated by the arrangement of a monthly visit

from the cutter of the Paisley Manufacturing Society, who took orders and measurements for

men’s garments.

NEW PREMISES

Towards the end of the year the way was opened for the oftdemanded and much-needed new

premises. An offer was made by the S.C.W.S. to advance loans from their surplus capital to

enable retail societies which were not financially strong enough to launch out on their own to

begin building. That offer was enthusiastically heard in Clydebank, and to prepare the way

for acceptance and hasten the day when construction would begin the members removed their

former opposition to the increase in share holdings by deciding to raise the minimum shares

necessary to be held from three £1 shares to five. In the closing month of the year the

Committee were authorised to make inquiries and enter into negotiations for acquiring

ground building purposes. Co-operation in Clydebank had advanced from the struggling

stage. It was now a firmly-established institution prepared to march forward apace with the

rapid growth of the community.

IV. Marching Ahead

All the citizens of Clydebank were not so sure of themselves as the co-operators. Plans for

the Society’s new premises were passed months before the town acquired the dignity for

being a burgh, and the decision to acquire that status was only taken after much wrangling

and eventually by the bare majority of one vote. There was also a prolonged controversy over

the question of the name to be borne by the new burgh-the communities of Clydebank,

Dalmuir, Kilbowie, and Yoker all advancing claims. The final vote lay between Clydebank

and Kilbowie, and the former won the christening honour by seven votes to four. Had the

nomenclature not been chosen it may have been that the name of the local Co-operative

society would have been different from that which we know to-day.

That the Committee lost no time in pursuing the terms of this mandate to acquire a

feu is shown by the fact that by February they were able to report success, Ground in what

was the newly-made Alexander Street, on part of the site occupied by the present Central

premises, was secured, and at a special meeting in March the plans of the proposed new

buildings were considered and scrutinised with great care. To the chairman was delegated the

duty of making further arrangements with Mr. Davidson, inspector of works for the S.C.W.S.

The final plans concerned the erection of three tenements, consisting of 15 dwelling-houses

and two shops. Proved successful as shopkeepers and bankers, the co-operators believed that

they could also provide homes for the people. To meet the estimated cost of £3,500 a special

loan was planned, and members were invited to advance money at 5 per cent. interest. In

addition, a loan of £2,000 was secured from The S.C.W.S. Reference to this ambitious

scheme appears in the 20th

quarterly report -“As you are, we hope, all aware, we are now

building large and commodious business premises in Alexander Street, which we hope to

occupy early next year.”

Plans for the keenly anticipated opening day figured largely in the discussions

throughout the year. A motion, submitted by Mr. Hugh Miller, that a demonstration be

organised and that the memorial stone of the new building be laid with masonic honours was

passed, but with the characteristically cautious proviso that a committee be appointed to

ascertain the probable cost. When the report was received the minimum amount was stated at

£13 6s. 4 ½d., and, after keen discussion, a special meeting of members was called to decide

the issue. When the meeting was held, however, it was discovered that they requisite six clear

days’ notice had not been given, so the chairman had to declare it null and void.

While this large enterprise was being talked about, another important decision was

taken and acted upon-a branch was opened in the neighbouring village of Yoker after a

canvass had revealed support for such a venture.

Compared with these important developments, other events during 1886 were

insignificant, but none the less interesting as an indication of the earnestness with which both

members and committeemen tackled their problems.

With the Society now out of its swaddling clothes some revision of the rules was

considered necessary, but none of the changes were revolutionary. A proposal that no person

could serve on the Committee who had a relative employed by the Society did not find

favour. While prepared to spend pounds in their thousands on new premises, the members

were still determined to be careful with the pence, and it was only after some deliberation that

each committeeman was granted a payment “at the rate of 3d. for each night”-with the

qualifying clause that “anyone absent the whole night will be fined 3d.” There was an

apparent determination against the principle of “something for nothing.”

Despite the scant reward the Committee laboured diligently without much attention

to hours, and two of the Board prepared competitive plans for a wheeled contrivance for use

by the message boy. One designer recommended two wheels, the other three, and the two

plans were submitted for judgment. Following a heated wrangle the inventor of the three-

wheeler was triumphant by solitary vote.

Favouritism and “under-the-counter” methods were not unknown in those days, and

to dispose of “certain grumbling and dissatisfaction” it was decided to sell eggs by weight.

The old bogey of shop leakage reappeared, and when the annual balance-sheet was issued

there was a demand for stock being retaken. This was done, and a report on the matter gave

the explanation that “Although the sales are much in excess of any previous quarter the

profits are much less in proportion, the principal reason for this being that the goods have

been sold at a much less margin of profit, and also that a heavy loss has taken place in selling

out through destruction by vermin and want of facilities for carrying on such an extensive

business in our present narrow and confined premises.” With the hope that all would be well

when the new building was opened in the New Year, the explanation was accepted.

A PROUD DAY

Pride and enthusiasm unparalleled since the great day of the Society’s birth was

engendered by the opening on 26th

May 1887 of the brand new building in Alexander Street.

Many more magnificent premises have since been erected, but none have so fired the

imagination of the townspeople as did that first building venture, and we can well imagine the

feelings of the pioneers in being able to look upon their own property only six years after

they had taken the brave step of establishing their own little shop. One of the new shops was

devoted to drapery and hardware, the other to the fleshing department, while the room at the

rear of the butchery was allocated to the Committee as a meeting room. As furnishings, one

armchair, eleven wooden chairs, and a table with four drawers were provided.

There appeared some lack of confidence-not altogether unwarranted, as later events

proved-about the Society’s ability to conduct its own fleshing department. Some thought that

it should be let to a private butcher. The 100 per cent. co-operators won the day, however,

and the business was begun under the complete control of the Committee.

Keen competition took place for occupancy of the 15 dwelling-houses above the

shops, and the allocation was made on the Art Union principle.

The proud members were horrified when someone sought to erect a byre at the rear

of their fine new building, and they were not particularly satisfied with the assurance that

while the byre could not be prohibited its removal could be ordered if it proved a nuisance.

Opening of the new premises had a decided propaganda value, and there was a

heartening response to a printed appeal by the Committee who as for “largely increased

business” and trusted that “every member will make an effort to increase the membership by

doing their utmost to redeem their fellowmen from the greedy grasp of the middleman.”

During the subsequent quarter 40 more persons sought the benefits of the Co-operative

trading, and membership approached the 200 mark.

It was with no little pride that the Committee received a deputation from the

Milngavie Society, who had asked permission to view the Clydebank building with a view to

undertaking a similar enterprise.

Although shop hours were better than those endured by private trade shop

salesmen, there was little change from those fixed at the beginning of the Society’s history.

One concession was that the hour of closing in alternative Fridays was an hour earlier-9 p.m.

instead for 10 p.m. Trade unionism had still to make its presence felt.

Neither was there any sign of political consciousness, as “no action” was taken in

response to a letter signed by a Mr M’Dermid who urged retaliation against local private

trade grocers who had taken action against the Society. What that action consisted of is not

clear from the records although it involved “putting paragraphs in the paper.”

First female employee entered the service in 1887-a cash girl, who received 7s. a

week.

Purchase of the first horse and van also took place in this memorable year. Refusal

of a local carrier to convey goods to Radnor Park forced the Committee to begin their own

delivery service and to build a stable. With the acquisition of the horse and van and the

appointment of the first vanman, the ancient three-wheeled peramular rattled no longer over

the town’s cobbled streets.

Vulcanite tokens for use by the members were another novelty.

Inter-society friendliness became apparent by two decisions-to lend the banner to

Dalmuir for their juvenile trip and to have a joint excursion with the Dalmuir members. An

eloquent addendum to the excursion motion was “that we refresh ourselves!”

For the first time, too, the monthly meeting took place at a new and more

commodious venue, the committeeroom of the Public Hall.

Towards the end of this eventful year an important appointment was made. Keen

rivalry was evident for the position of secretary, and after some misunderstanding and

confusion regarding procedure Mr. John Steel was appointed on a show of hands, Mr.

Hempseed, who had held the position since the formation of the Society-apart from a few

weeks in 1882-having to demit office.

BREAKAWAY THREAT

Stormy scenes at the members’ meeting were an unfortunate feature of the year 1889. So

disgruntled did a certain section of the members become with the conduct of the business that

they determined to break away and begin a society of their own. Feeling, no doubt, that their

honour was at stake, the Committee made no attempt to pacify the recalcitrant, who actually

reached the stage of making inquiries for premises. The stage was set for a spilt, which might

have had a disastrous effects for both parties. The situation had been closed watched from the

outset, however, by an ex-member of the board, and when the threat of fissure became

serious he informed the S.C.W.S., the Scottish Section of the Co-operative Union, and the

Glasgow and Suburbs Conference Committee. Representatives of those organisations

approached the contending parties, and after patient negotiation succeeded in healing the

unhappy breach.

The wrangling had had the effect of making many members stay away from the

meetings, and the chairman, after appealing for “more support in trying to keep order,”

commented that “until the quarterly and monthly meetings are more orderly than they have

been the members will not turn out.”

In a further effort to persuade wider active interest in the Society’s affairs it was

decided to fine those who did not attend the meetings without having a reasonable excuse for

absence. The fine was 3d., and a similar penalty was imposed upon those who showed laxity

by failing to send in their share, loan, and cash book to the office at the end of each quarter.

Tightening up of the credit regulations also took place, 15s. per £ paid-up shares

being the prescribed limit.

Deterioration in the efficiency of the fleshing business resulted in the renewal of an

old problem, and once more, with some reluctance, the department was closed. Standing

empty and unused, the shop was a constant reminder to the Committee of failure, and it is

little wonder that from time to time members of the Committee sought to remove the bolt on

their business ability. A plebiscite of the members on the question of reopening was agreed

to, but never carried out. Another suggestion that the shop be reopened as a drapery, delf, and

footwear department was considered, but rejected. Final decisions always seemed to be

avoided.

Another failure was the running of an educational department. Although it had been

decided early in the year to allocated 1 ¼ per cent. of the profits to the educational fund, the

cultural operations were not successful, and ultimately the Educational Committee was

abolished.

A happier feature of a troublesome 12 months was the acquisition of a double shop

and opening of the first branch at Yoker. Premises in Shandon Place were taken on a five

years’ lease. Charge of the new branch was bestowed upon Mr. William Montgomery, who

thus climbed the first rung of the ladder that led him to the general managership.

Appreciation of the increasing burden of work that had been placed upon the

secretary’s shoulders was indicated by the raising of his salary to £24 a year. He was also

authorised to appoint an assistant. The secretary Mr. John Steel, also wins mention at this

stage by being

V. Fears Realised

Almost inevitably increased responsibilities are accompanied by increased troubles, and the

Clydebank Committee did not escape from the consequences of their greater commitments.

Early fears about the fleshing department were not long in being confirmed. Few

weeks passed without a loss being reported, and the Committee confessed in their quarterly

report that it was a “heavy drag” on the Society’s operations. So serious did the debits

become that for some weeks the shop was closed. This unsuccessful venture also led to the

Society being involved in its first legal action. It was decided to go to court to retain the

sacked butchers security, which had been exceeded to by the losses incurred. Eventually the

shop reopened following a visit from two representatives of the S.C.W.S., including the cattle

buyer, and the inauguration of a new venture by the Wholesale Society in the dead meat

trade. Butchery losses had a serious effect on the dividend, which slumped to 1s. 1 ½ d.

Nevertheless, a proposal to pay a separate dividend on meat-also drapery-did not find favour.

Resignation of the salesman, James Beckitt, also had an upsetting influence upon

the organisation. His successor was Mr. David Caldwell from Catrine, whose remuneration

was fixed at 33s. a week.

About the same time a revised table of payments to officials and Committee was

introduced, providing the following rewards:- President, 10s. per quarter; shop committee,

10s. per quarter; ordinary committee, 3d. per meeting; secretary, £6 per annum; assistant

secretary, £2; treasurer, £3; purchase book checkers, 10s.;auditors 15s. The stocktaking fees

were-grocery, 2s. and drapery, 5s., with 1s. for refreshment.

For the first time the problem of overlapping between Co-operative societies was

experienced. Although there was a separate organisation in the Radnor Park district quite a

number of people in the area preferred membership of the Clydebank Society, and they

considered that a branch should be opened for their convenience. When their request was

refused they threatened to start still another separate society in Radnor Park. The committee

of the Radnor Park Society were invited to discuss the matter, but they refused, and there was

also no effective move following a suggestion that the societies in the burgh - Clydebank,

Dalmuir, and Radnor Park-should discuss the entire problem of servicing the area and

avoiding uneconomic competition. Time was not yet ripe for a fusion of forces, at least so far

as the rulers of the separate societies were concerned. The discussions, however, had the

happy result of averting a split in the Clydebank Society. Connected with Radnor Park

members threat to break away was a motion that would have authorised the Committee to

open branch shops anywhere at any time, but that permission was not granted.

Those proposals provoked heated words, and when a member of the Committee

declared publicly that “It would be better for this Society if some of the members of the

Committee were on the top of Ben Nevis instead for where they are” only a withdrawal and

an apology soothed those whose feelings were ruffled.

Indignation seems to have been widespread, too, when someone expressed the

suspicion that the first horse acquired was “older than what it was represented to be when

bought.” The animal apparently had been lying down on the job.

Rows always provide good “copy” for the newspapers, and it may have been

because of the troubles experienced during 1888 that the Glasgow Evening Times sent a

request for reports of the Society’s quarterly meetings and other items of news connected

with the Society. The reason given by the Times, however, was that they were giving special

attention to news about Co-operation owing to the increasing importance of the Movement in

Scotland.

BREAKAWAY THREAT

Stormy scenes at the members’ meetings were an unfortunate feature of the year

1889. So disgruntled did a certain section of the members become with the conduct of the

business that they determined to break away and begin a society of their own. Feeling, no

doubt, that their honour was at stake, the Committee made no attempt to pacify the

recalcitrants, who actually reached the stage of making inquiries for premises. The stage was

set for a split, which might have had disastrous effect for both parties. The situation had been

closely watched from the outset, however, by an ex-member of the board, and when the threat

of a fissure became serious he informed the S.C.W.S., the Scottish Section of the Co-

operative Union, and the Glasgow and Suburbs Conference Committee. Representatives of

those organisations approached the contending parties, and after patient negotiation

succeeded in healing the unhappy breach.

The wrangling had had the effect of making many members stay away from the

meetings, and the chairman, after appealing for “more support in trying to keep order,”

commented that “until the quarterly and monthly meetings are more orderly than they have

been the members will not turn out.”

In a further effort to persuade wider active interest in the Society’s affairs it was

decided to fine those who did not attend the meetings without having a reasonable excuse for

absence. The fine was 3d., and a similar penalty was imposed upon those who showed laxity

by failing to send in their share, loan, and cash book to the office at the end of each quarter.

Tightening up of the credit regulations also took place, 15s. per £ of paid-up shares

beign the prescribed limit.

Deterioration in the efficiency of the fleshing business resulted in the renewal of an

old problem, and once more, with some reluctance, the department was closed. Standing

empty and unused, the shop was a constant reminder to the Committee of failure, and it is

little wonder that from time to time members of the Committee sought to remove the blot on

their business ability. A plebiscite of the members on the question of reopening was agreed

to, but never carried out. Another suggestion that the shop be reopened as a drapery, delf, and

footwear department was considered, but rejected. Final decisions always seemed to be

avoided.

Another failure was the running of an educational department. Although it had been

decided early in the year to allocate 1¼ per cent. of the profits to the educational fund, the

cultural operations were not successful, and ultimately the Educational Committee was

abolished.

A happier feature of a troublesome 12 months was the acquisition of a double shop

and opening of the first branch at Yoker. Premises in Shandon Place were taken on a five

years’ lease. Change of the new branch was bestowed upon Mr. William Montgomery, who

thus climbed the first rung of the ladder that led him to the general mangership.

Appreciation of the increasing burden of work that had been placed upon the

secretary’s shoulders was indicated by the raising of his salary to £24 a year. He was also

authorised to appoint an assistant. The secretary Mr. John Steel, also wins mention at this

stage by being the first delegate the Clydebank Society sent to the National Co-operative

Congress.

Nothing of a spectacular nature marked the Society’s career in 1890. The

equilibrium list to some extent by the disputes and difficulties of the two preceding years was

restored, and the process of building up continued surely and steadily. A strong faith in the

solvency of the organisation had been created, and instead of having to devise ways and

means of raising capital the Committee were confronted with the opposite problem of money

accumulating faster than it could be utilised. It was a clear indication of stability that when

one member sought to lodge loan capital to the value of £150 the Board turned him down.

The sum of £400 was sent to the S.C.W.S. on loan, while a further £400 was paid towards the

abolition of the bond on the property - a step which some thought too daring.

LACK OF CONFIDENCE

Meanwhile the empty butchery shop continued to trouble the consciences of the

Committee members, and there were repeated efforts to have the stigma of failure removed.

But vacillation continued to mark the discussions on the issue. At a special meeting in the

spring it was decided by a small majority that the fleshing department be reopened in

September, and the S.C.W.S. cattle buyer agreed to advise and pay supervisory visits, but a

month before the shop was due to reopen the members showed their lack of confidence in the

venture by reversing their previous decision. Instead, there was a majority in favour of

utilising the premises as a drapery. There was no withdrawing from that decision, and before

the end of the year the drapery was opened.

Resignation of Mr. Caldwell from the position of head salesman was a blow, and it

was evidence of his worth that on his departure to become assistant manager of the S.C.W.S.

at Kilmarnock he received a testimonial of £10 in appreciation of his services. This was a

change from the old trouble of trying to retain the security of sacked shopmen. In replacing

Mr. Caldwell the Committee adopted a practice that was so successful that it has been

followed by successive boards throughout the Society’s entire history-that of choosing of the

Society’s own staff to the post of principal employee. Mr. William Montgomery was the new

head salesman and his salary was 33s. a week.

A slight concession was made to the employees, the Saturday night closing time

being reduced from 10 till 9 p.m., and to facilitate this a regulation was made whereby no

orders were delivered on Saturdays unless they were handed in before 2 p.m.

VI. Hoodoo Returns

At first the drapery department returned results which dispelled the “hoodoo” that had hung

over the shop in its original capacity as a butchery, but that happy state of affairs, alas, was

not destined to endure. Heavy leakage in that separate drapery resulted in a special

stocktaking, and later the consigning of the books to the scrutiny of the S.C.W.S. accountant.

Friction was pronounced, and there was talk of “insulting and abusive language” and

“slanderous statements” at the monthly meetings. The trouble culminated in the resignation

of the secretary and the decision to appoint a full-time official to carry through the now

onerous secretarial duties. To this 27s. per week post Mr. Hempseed, the original secretary,

was appointed. Another decision following upon the leakage was the insuring of the drapery

stock for £1500. The reorganisation of the department proved satisfactory, but a new source

of trouble appeared in the shop. First, the shopwoman was severely censured for absenting

herself from duty beyond the specified time during her holidays, and a few weeks later the

unfortunate lady further incurred the displeasure of the Committee, and was “cautioned” for

delay in attending to members grievances.

The initial attempt at imposing a time-limit for Committee members was made,

unsuccessfully, by Mr. David Bell, who proposed a limit of two years and an off-period of

one year.

Success, however, greeted a motion to reduce the interest on loan capital from 5 to

4¼ per cent. per annum-an indication that the organisation was still adequately capitalised.

Some of the funds were used for the development of the business by the opening of

Branch No. 2. At Cameron Street a suitable grocery shop was secured and taken over on 26th

November. So steadily were trade and membership increasing that further extensions were

urgently required, with a boot and shoe shop having primary claim. Consultations took place

with the architect on the advisability of building a stable, van shed, grocery store,

boardrooms, office, and hall. In view of the small rental paid for the shipyard dining hall the

suggested hall was omitted from the plan submitted to and approved by the December

quarterly meeting.

While embarking upon these development schemes the co-operators maintained

their interest in the general welfare of the working class in Clydebank. Particularly

praiseworthy was the gesture of donating £20 for the relief of those suffering from the great

railway strike of 1891. Many railwaymen showed their appreciation by joining and sharing in

the benefits Co-operation had brought to so many members of the community. Sympathy

with the unfortunate was also shown by a grant of £5 to an old member who had fallen upon

evil times through illness. That kindliness was also extended to animals, the minutes

recording “that the vanman be instructed to pay particular attention to the Society’s horse

poulticing its foot and keeping it off work for a couple of days.”

Complaints show that “inferior coal” is not merely a modern grouse. As a sequel to

representations the Committee decided to secure their supplies from a nearby source-the old

Drumshangie Colliery.

CONCERNING COAL

Coal was the commodity that called for the concentration of the Committee for

a considerable part of the succeeding 12 months. For some years a coal service had been

provided, but the supply had never been completely satisfactory, and with the growing

membership a more extensive and thorough service became essential. This matter was

interesting the entire district about this period and a joint meeting of the co-operators of

Dalmuir, Duntocher and Hardgate, Clydebank, and Radnor Park was called. Radnor Park’s

suggestion was the establishment of a coal federation, but that was not acceptable to the

Clydebank representatives, and the proposal for a joint project fell through. The Clydebank

Committee was authorised to enter into the business of supplying coal in bags and to

establish a depot. Various existing systems in Glasgow was examined, and it was decided to

copy the St.George Society’s organisation. A siding was secured at the railway station, where

a wooden building for an office and tool shed was erected.

While no difficulty had been encountered in negotiating with the railway company

for the coal siding, on another question the two organisations came to loggerheads. This was

over the plan of the North British Railway Company to drive a new track through the town.

There was general opposition to the scheme by property owners in the centre of the burgh,

and, if executed, the project would almost certainly have had damaging effects on the

Alexander Street building. Representations were successful, however, and the N.B. had to

adjust their plans to avoid disfiguring the centre of the town.

Interest in the general affairs of the community is also revealed by an intimation

that the shops were closed at one o’clock one Tuesday afternoon to enable the employees to

witness the launching of the warship Ramilles from the shipyard-one of the first of the many

large ship construction undertaken in the burgh.

Reverting to the Society’s internal affairs we find that the much desired extension

scheme in Alexander Street, incorporating the erection of a stable, van shed, store, office and

boardroom received full approval, and contracts were fixed. The estimated cost was about

£866. In August the premises were ready for occupancy.

As progress was made the need for rules revision again became evident, and one of

the new measures was the resuscitation of the Educational Committee, to which seven

individuals were elected. Those men soon justified the existence of the committee, and one of

their early acts was to ask power-which was granted - to spend £4 on prizes to be presented to

the children attending local schools.

With the recurrence of losses in the drapery drastic steps were taken. The lady in

charge was supplanted by a member of the sterner sex, Mr. John Thom, from the Co-

operative Drapery and Furnishing Society, Glasgow, who took over the responsibility for

24a. a week. One of the ground-floor dwelling-houses in Alexander Street was converted into

a boot and shoe shop, and the back kitchen was used as a repair shop. Entry into the repair

business proved most successful, and within a short time a practical shoemaker was engaged

on a full-time basis.

The Committee considered the salesman was too ambitious, however, when he

suggested the mirrors for the sides of the windows and they rejected this idea. Window

display was not ten a widely-appreciated art.

Towards the close of the year the Committee had occasion to put one of their

number “on the carpet.” Apparently full of the Saturday night spirit he had “misconducted

himself” in the central grocery shop. It was a much less exuberant committeeman who

appeared at the weekly meeting, and he was pardoned after tendering profuse apologies.

The full Committee also took the purchasing committee to task for buying goods

outside the S.C.W.S.; they were instructed not to do so in future without permission.

DOUBLE BLOW

A double blow struck the burgh early in the year 1893. Economic depression

reduced industry almost to a standstill, causing widespread want among the shipbuilders and

engineers. It was one of the most trying of the periodic economic blights ever to strike the

community. To accentuate the suffering the winter was of the most trying description. All

businesses experienced the effects of the depression, but the Clydebank Co-operative Society

was now on unshakable foundations. It not only withstood the strain, but further propagated

the ideals of Co-operation by the generous gesture of giving grants to members in reduced

circumstances. To cover the cost the sum of £50 was withdrawn from the reserve fund and

distributed gratis, and later a similar sum was given on loan to tide needy members over their

troubles. That generosity did not begin and end with the Society’s own members; a donation

of £25, deducted from profits, was made to the Burgh Relief Fund, which was administered

by a committee that included three Co-operative committeemen. Necessitous cases in the

town were also assisted by a free distribution of bread, undertaken jointly by the U.C.B.S.

and the local Society.

FIRST GUILD BRANCH

Increased activity by the Educational Committee was evident during this time of

depression. Among their outstanding deeds was the organisation of this first local branch of

the Scottish Co-operative Women’s Guild. On 25th

August-just five months after the

establishment of the Association of the Women’s Guild in Scotland-the Clydebank

guildwomen held their first meeting in the boardroom, and decided to meet every Tuesday

night. Thus began an auxiliary that has since proved of tremendous value in propagating Co-

operation among the housewives of Clydebank and district. A leading figure among the

pioneer guildwomen was Mrs. Bell, who later was elected to the high office of National

President of the Scottish Guild. Mrs Bell took a prominent part in the first important large-

scale venture in which the Clydebank guild participated-the organisation of a bazaar to put

the Co-operative Convalescent Homes on a sound basis-and her enthusiasm for the guild

movement and for that particular project is exemplified by the fact that on the opening day

she left her home in Clydebank at 2 o’clock in the morning and walked all the way to the City

Hall, Glasgow, where she arrived about 5 o’clock to assist in the erection and dressing of the

stalls. Clydebank’s close association with the worthy work of the Homes has been maintained

throughout the years, and it has been represented on the directorate for many years by Bailie

Mrs. Lappin.

Adoption of “unfair methods” by local coal merchants to try and draw trade from

the Society led to one of the first real clashes with private traders. A damaging retaliatory

blow was the Co-operative Committee’s decision to reduce the price of coal to 9d. per cwt.,

and they added the threat that the price would be lowered still further “at the sacrifice of

dividend” if the merchants did not desist. That step indicated that those in charge were

determined not to allow maintenance of the dividend to interfere with their primary task of

servicing the people efficiently and without hindrance.

Failing health led to the resignation from the secretaryship of that faithful and

industrious pioneer, Mr. James Hempseed, and to the first proposal in favour of the

appointment of a managing-secretary. Such a move was not favoured, however, and another

secretary, Mr. Andrew Gentiles, was appointed. Within a fortnight, however, Mr Gentiles

also had to relinquish the position for health reasons, and a former secretary, Mr. Steel,

returned to the job.

An indication that the Committee were finding their time fully occupied in dealing

with the larger operations of the Society is given by the decision, taken during the summer, to

cease interviewing complainers unless proof was first submitted that the complaints were

authentic. Until then they had been at great pains to pacify and satisfy irate customers, but the

membership had grown too large for such individual attention.

Need for further revision of the rules to meet new developments became evident,

and a series of meetings was required to deal with the new proposals. One of the decisions

made was to resend the rule imposing a time-limit on Committee members.

At the time of the annual municipal elections consideration was given for the first

time to the position co-operators should take up-a sign that the Co-operative Movement was

stirring politically.

VII. Politics Barred

Emergence from the trade slump was a happy feature of the burgh’s history in the early part

of 1894, but those recurring depressions were beginning to make an impression upon the

suffering workmen, including those associated with the Co-operative organisation. As yet

there was no definite link between trinity consisting of the Co-operative, Labour, and Trade

Union Movements, and many Co-operative members were opposed to participation in

political affairs. Some expressed the opinion that discussion of political matters should be

excluded at the Society’s meetings, whereas others insisted that it was impossible to talk Co-

operation without politics being involved. “No action” was the decision of the Committee,

however, in response to an invitation from the Scottish Labour Party to appoint two delegates

to attend a conference of representatives of the various trade and friendly societies in the

town at which the question of selecting working-class candidates for the Council and other

local Government bodies was considered. The reason given for the Committees refusal to

participate was that most of them were already connected with the other organisations

representated at the conference. That sympathy with efforts to improve the lot of the workers

was not lacking was shown by a donation of £20 to the Scottish Miners’ Strike Fund.

Early in the year a proposal to reopen the butchery department, which had been

such a failure, was turned down because of the poor industrial situation, but as soon as trade

at the shipyards improved the demand for expansion of the Society’s activities was resumed.

The drapery trade had developed so rapidly that the small shop in Alexander Street had

become too small to cope with all the customers, and in June a special meeting took place in

the shipyard dining hall to discuss a large extension scheme. At that meeting the Committee

submitted figures showing that in the preceding two years trade in drapery, furnishing,

furniture, and boots amounted to £10,130. Of that sum, however only £2,799 had been

retailed in the Society’s own shop, most of the sales passing through the Co-operative

Drapery and Furnishing Society’s shop in Great Clyde Street, Glasgow, and the Paisley Co-

operative Manufacturing Society’s premises. The Committee expressed the opinion that the

trade from their own shop could have been doubled had larger premises been available.

A scheme for the conversion of existing dwelling-houses into shops, the extension

of the Alexander Street premises by the provision of what was then considered a commodious

drapery and furnishing department, and the erection of more dwelling-houses - at an

estimated cost of £3,600-was placed before the members, who gave the necessary

authorisation, and the preparatory work for yet another ambitious enterprise was immediately

begun. To their original plan the Committee later arranged the provision of tailoring,

dressmaking, and millinery departments, and towards the end of the year they took their

courage in both hands by plunging once more into the fleshing trade, and opened not merely

one, but two shops-one in the old drapery, the other in the east-end of the town.

With the erection of more dwelling-houses the suggestion was made that facilities

be provided whereby the tenants could through time purchase the houses, but the matter was

not pursued.

Only a few minor worries beset the Committee during 1894. Trading losses and

absenteeism on the part of the salesmen led to drastic action in connection with Kilbowie

Road grocery, there was a serious burglary at the same shop; and two of the message boys

went into the black books-one being fined at the Police Court for riding the Society’s

perambulator on the pavement, while the other was reprimanded for calling on Yoker

members “at an extraordinary hour in the morning.” Such youthful zeal was apparently not

appreciated!

A notable departure during the year was that of Mr. James Hempseed, the pioneer

secretary, who, on leaving the town, was publicly presented with a testimonial in appreciation

of his services in establishing the Society and placing it on a sound foundation. A man of

courage and vision, Mr. Hempseed had always been an enthusiastic supporter of new

ventures, and when he left he could look back with pride upon his contribution towards

establishing Co-operation among the shipbuilders.

By their guild activities the women had proved worthy propagandists, but there was

reluctance to grant them the full rights of membership and active participation in the

government of the Society. It was not until March 1895 that the ladies made their first

appearance at a members’ meeting, and then they were present only on invitation. Perhaps

they had a soothing effect. At any rate, it was agreed that the wives and daughters of

members be invited to attend future meetings - as spectators. A proposal to grant a similar

privilege to members’ sons was not favoured however, and likewise there was no support for

a suggestion that members of the public be invited to the meetings.

MEMBERSHIP RIGHTS

Admission to membership itself was still regarded as a privilege, and the

Committee carefully scrutinised all applications and had no hesitation in rejecting unsuitable

cases. They refused, for instance, to accept two inhabitants of Dalmuir as that would have

meant accentuating the growing overlapping problem, while they also turned down

applications by two women whose husbands were already members.

For some time the system of paying bonuses to employees had been operating with

some success. It had become an important issue in the Co-operative Movement, and

Clydebank sent delegates to a national conference at Kirkintilloch with instructions to support

payment of the bonus. Later in the year, however, that decision was reversed; at an adjourned

meeting discontinuance of the bonus was carried.

In the autumn the extension scheme planned the previous year was sufficiently

advanced to permit the members to hold their quarterly meeting their own premises for the

first time. There was a large turnout in the hall that formed part of the new drapery

department. A few weeks later the hall was let for the first time-to the engineers who used it

to discuss strike action.

With the new drapery establishment open additional staff was required, and new

appointments concerned a cutter, a dressmaker, and a milliner. The old drapery was

converted into a delf shop, thus allowing development in another line of business. Rents for

the newly constructed dwelling-houses were fixed, ranging from £10 10s. to £17 8s. per

annum-figures which present-day tenants will read with envy.

No sooner had the new premises been opened than other developments were

approved, the Committee receiving authority to open grocery and fleshing shops in Kilbowie

Road, opposite Singer’s factory. Meanwhile evolution towards the linking up of the Co-

operative organisations in the burgh was taking place, one instance being a request by the

Radnor Park Society’s committee that the Clydebank Society distribute coal among Radnor

Park members. The Clydebank reaction was to suggest that the Radnor Park Society should

take out a number of shares in the Clydebank Society and that Radnor Park members should

pay ½ d. per cwt, for coal in bags and 6d. per ton for coal in ton loads in excess of the price

paid by Clydebank members.

The year was also noteworthy because of the installation of the first telephone of

the first telephone in the Society, at an annual rental of £32 10s.

Another commentary on the times was the intimation that the Educational

Committee organised a magic lantern show in the Public Hall and that that form of

entertainment attracted a packed house.

Revising the rules seemed to be a favourite occupation in those days, and for the

second successive year we find the rules undergoing a comprehensive overhaul. In the course

of four drawn-out general meetings the members made various adjustments. One new

provision barred any member from being a member of any other Co-operative society, while

another rule, which survives to-day in almost all societies, forbade membership to anyone

who sold goods similar to those retailed by the Society.

FIRST GENERAL MANAGER

Transition from adolescence to manhood may aptly describe the outstanding feature

of Clydebank Society’s history in 1896, for it was in the year that they Society raised itself to

the status of having a general manager to guide its affairs and give that central control

important to a departmental organisation. Unlike many other developments which were put

into effect only after months of argument, the proposal to create a general manager was

adopted promptly and with little controversy. There was some opposition at the members’

meeting, but by 50 votes to 18 there was approval of the motion, which was backed by the

argument that the Society had become too large to be operated satisfactorily merely by a band

of men meeting in their leisure hours. Consultations with the older Dumbarton and Vale of

Leven societies followed regarding the duties of the general manger, and when these had

been defined the post was advertised at a weekly wage of £2 10s. To-day that may seem a

low remuneration for such a responsible post, but there was no lack of applicants. Fifty-three

ambitious grocers from all parts of Scotland sought the post, but the Committee decided that

they need go no further than Clydebank for their man, so Mr. William Montgomery, head

salesman and an employee of the Society for 11 years, became first general manager, a

position he was to occupy with distinction for the next 35 years. As an office the new

manager was given the hall used by the Educational Committee. Mr. Montgomery was

formally welcomed into his new duties at a gathering of the Committee members, when Mr.

D. Gilmour, the chairman, appealed to the Committee to give him all possible assistance in

managing “the different branches connected with a large and growing concern.”

Another indication of the Society’s widening ramifications was the decision to

appoint a full-time cashier and book-keeper. This followed an inquiry into the conducting of

the office, and the man chosen for this important post was the secretary, Mr. John Steel.

About the same time the secretary had his salary augmented in an unusual way. He

complained to the Committee about the frequency with which the police were calling at his

home in the middle of the night to get him to secure unlocked doors and to extinguish lights

left blazing in the Society’s premises. As a punishment and deterrent the Committee decided

to fine erring employees 5s. each time they failed to lock doors and turn off gas jets-the fines

to be handed over to the secretary every time his slumbers were disturbed.

A line of business in which the Society has been outstandingly successful was

begun in 1896, when the old drapery was converted into a fish shop. The new enterprise

received a flying start, although until then the Vale of Leven had been the only Co-operative

organisation in the West of Scotland to conduct such a trade in a separate shop. Soon after the

entry of the Society into the fish business a private fishmonger, noting the Society’s success

with some apprehension, offered to sell his business to the Society. Due to wish management

this difficult trade has been most prolific and profitable, and Clydebank’s fish sales and

services are among the highest and best in the country.

In other respects there was no desire either on the part of the Committee or the

members to allow the Society to rest upon its oars, and of a special general meeting it is

reported “a very strong feeling existed among the members for further extension in various

ways.” New premises in Yoker and Kilbowie and the opening of a bakery were proposed, and

definite action was taken to feu ground on the North side of Glasgow Road and Elgin Street

for grocery, boot, and fleshing departments. Failure to abide by the rule stipulating six clear

days’ notice to members when convening meetings and the consequent lapse of time resulted

in the opportunity of securing the ground being lost, but eventually premises in Blythswood

Terrace were leased.

Serious consideration was given during the year to clearing off non-purchasing

members, but action to dispose of those undesirables had to be delayed a £927 would have

been required to conduct the pay-off and it would have meant too heavy withdrawals of loan

capital from the S.C.W.S and U.C.B.S. The committee were instructed, however, to take the

earliest possible opportunity of meeting the wishes of the purchasing members on this point.

Relations with another of the federations, the Glasgow Drapery and Furnishing

Society, had deteriorated, and towards the close of the year there was unanimous agreement

that all shares in the “D. & F” be withdrawn. It appeared that while the Society was receiving

only 3 per cent. from the federation as interest on capital the Society was paying its own

members at the rate of 5 per cent.

More “harmonious” items of note during the year concerned the giving of a concert

by the employees and the inauguration of a singing class by the Educational Committee.

AN UNHAPPY YEAR

For those associated with the administration of the Society 1897 was one of the

unhappiest years in Clydebank’s Co-operative history. Once again the town had to endure

industrial distress, this time among the engineers in the community, and for the first time

since the birth of the organisation there was a substantial drop in the trade.

Not so serious financially, but grave from the point of view of the Movement’s

local reputation, was a scandal which led to a responsible official being prosecuted for

embezzlement. The incident, which involved a defalcation of £180, also resulted in a

rearrangement in the office management, including the appointment of separate individuals to

the positions of book-keeper and treasurer. Both posts were advertised, and two men from

outside the town took over the duties.

Influenced, perhaps, by the need for a more widespread knowledge of business

methods among the members, the Educational Committee organised classes in book-keeping

and shorthand.

Despite the rebuffs of falling trade and financial losses, a certain amount of

development took place during the year. The first cash desks and girls were introduced into

the central and No. 4 grocery branches and safes were installed. Another butchery shop was

opened and the Society agreed to support the formation of a federation for a Co-operative

laundry at Barrhead. Advocates of that new Co-operative project pointed out that laundries

were a good investment, giving a return ranging from 6 to 18 per cent., while the conditions

of laundry employees would be raised if operated under Co-operative auspices. Both these

arguments appealed to the Clydebank people, who were ever ready to embark upon new

ventures.

VIII. Deep Depression

Intense industrial distress had a braking effect on trade throughout most of the year in 1898,

and there was little support for any proposals advocating heavy capital expenditure. Two

rejected suggestions consisted of the starting of a diary and the opening of a shop at Yoker

Ferry. Even the annual soiree was abandoned because of the depression that hovered over the

town.

There was a move to disband the Educational Committee, the proposer asserting

that “it was a waste of money because everything they have tried has been a failure,” but

while 19 members supported that opinion there were 35 who maintained that the committee

was serving a useful purpose.

A boycott of the Co-operative Movement by the private fleshing trade caused

considerable indignation, and created a renewed demand for participation in politics. A

motion was submitted which urged the members to be “up and doing”, to be represented in

parliamentary and municipal administration, and to subscribe to the Parliamentary and

maintenance Fund organised by the Movement. There was again fierce controversy over the

issue, one opponent prophesying that politics would be the rock upon which the Society

would perish. In the end a “wait and see” attitude was adopted.

Another proposal which fell to the ground was an attempt to amalgamate with the

Blairdardie Society. That organisation was stated to be “sinking rapidly”, but the Blairdardie

management at that particular time apparently preferred to sink or swim by their own efforts,

and they failed to turn up at a special meeting called by the Glasgow and District Conference

Association to discuss a union.

It had been the practice to note in the minutes the passing of prominent personalities

who had helped in the building up of the Society, but it was something novel to bestow that

distinction upon a national figure. Clydebank co-operators readily accorded that tribute to

William Ewart Gladstone at their May monthly meeting, when the chairman, Mr. James

Boag, referred to the death of “the greatest statesman of the present century.”

AGAINST POLITICS

Renewed outbreaks of discrimination against the Movement led to fresh demands

for Co-operative representation in Parliament in the early part of 1899, but in Clydebank, as

elsewhere, the anti-political wing of the membership remained much the stronger. At the

January monthly meeting proposal for direct representation for the Movement in the House of

Commons received only half a dozen votes. The general feeling was no stronger than Liberal,

and, at the same meeting, there was unanimous assent to a motion to give a donation towards

a national memorial for that Party’s recently deceased leader, Gladstone.

An example of the strengthening anti-Co-operative feeling was found in the

decision of the printers of the New Church Hymnary not to provide copies for sale by Co-

operative societies – an action which resulted in a protest being sent to the local churches.

Introduction of tramcars to the streets of Clydebank was the subject of another

protest. Such an innovation was not popular with all the townspeople, who considered that

their streets would be disfigured and the noise would be disturbing. Accordingly to a petition

was sent to the Burgh Commissioners urging them not to lease the streets to the British

Traction Company for their new tramway system. The plea failed.

On the other hand the local Co-operators welcomed another important development

in the burgh, the erection of municipal buildings, and the Society’s show was an outstanding

feature of the demonstration held on the occasion of laying the foundation stone. All the

Society’s horses took part, six of the most powerful Clydesdales in the West of Scotland were

sent by the S.C.W.S., while the U.C.B.S. provided a good turnout of lighter animals, the

whole making a brave show. Jamestown Band headed the Co-operative section. To add still

further to the prestige of the Movement, the U.C.B.S. entertained about 5,000 school children

in the forenoon of a memorable day.

An important step in the development of the fish trade was taken after a deputation

had visited the Grahamston and Bainsford Society which then had the most successful fish

trade in the Movement. A first-class fishmonger was engaged, and annual contract was fixed

with an Aberdeen firm, and two fish carts were put upon the road. This service was also

placed at the disposal of the members of Dalmuir and Radnor Park societies. Agreement was

also reached for the supply of coal to the members of those societies, and this led to a

considerable increase in that trade.

FALSE HOPES

Collaboration between the societies in the town and district continued and

increased, and the prospect of amalgamation loomed ahead. Meetings between the societies

were frequent, but nothing definite was done until May 1900 when at the request of the

Scottish Sectional Board of the Co-operative Union a conference took place at which

representatives from Clydebank, Duntocher and Hardgate, and Duntocher Independent

appeared to discuss the matter.

Messrs. James Deans and Peter Glasse spoke on behalf of the Section. In a long and

eloquent speech Mr. Deans pointed out the saving in expenses that would result from a union

and the trade that was being lost through the inability of the smaller societies to meet all the

needs of their members. His eloquence, alas, was of little avail. All present were agreed on

the principle, but Clydebank were strongly in favour of an amalgamation embracing all five

organisations in the district. Dalmuir and Radnor Park declined to entertain the proposal, and

the whole project was nullified. A request by Duntocher Independent for the opening of a

butcher shop in their area was agreed to, however, and the various societies continued their

helpful co-operation.

Prolonged negotiations for the erection of a slaughterhouse were successfully

terminated. When the Town Council refused to erect a public one, the Society took the

initiative. Whitecrook Farm was taken over at a rental of £40 per annum on a ten-year lease,

the Commissioners gave their consent, and the contract was carried through.

Another important business development planned and completed was the purchase

of the ground in Hume Street where the present hall and offices are situated. Erection of the

much-needed premises was proceeded with on the purchase of 964 yards at 6s. per square

yard.

Those in favour of participation in politics gained some ground against those who

favoured neutrality at the annual municipal election. It was decided to question candidates

regarding the rejection of the Society’s tender for the hospital contract although it was the

lowest offer, and it was also agreed to approach Dr. Robertson and ask him to stand in the

interest of the Society at the election. Representatives were also sent to the housing

committee formed for the purpose of returning Labour candidates to a commission dealing

with housing reform.

BAKERY ISSUE

A controversy that had important consequences for the community raged during

1901.

For some years there had occurred periodically agitations for the establishment of a

bakery by the local Society. On one occasion negotiations were begun for a site and fell

through only because the building was situated on ground belonging to the railway company

and a limit of five years was placed on lease. Dissatisfaction with the service provided from

the U.C.B.S. bakery at M’Neil Street, Glasgow, was expressed by an influential body of

members, and a motion to proceed with the erection of baking premises on the Society’s

behalf was carried by a large majority over an amendment that proposed a further conference

with the U.C.B.S. A search was made for suitable ground, and the site chosen was that

whereon stand to-day the handsome building conducted by the U.C.B.S. for their biscuit-

baking. How this came about will be gathered from the following explanation.

Negotiations of a preliminary nature on behalf of Clydebank Society were set afoot,

the ground proprietors were approached by their lawyers, and the price stated and favourably

received. Further, the North British Railway Company was asked upon terms for a siding

within the ground, and everything pointed to the venture being carried through without

encountering any insuperable difficulty. Suddenly, however, directors of the U.C.B.S.

realised the approach of a crisis, and to meet it they beseeched the Clydebank Committee to

receive a deputation. The request was granted, and by that section of the membership

opposed to the building scheme warmly welcomed. Thereupon a strong deputation of

U.C.B.S. speakers acknowleged the fact that Clydebank’s withdrawal might have serious

repercussions, so they gave a promise that a recommendation would be made to the

federation for the erection of a branch of the “Bakery’s” business in the district. Stormy

scenes were witnessed at a later meeting when Messrs. M’Culloch, Bain, and Young of the

U.C.B.S. were heard at some length in speeches opposed entirely to the breakaway threatened

by the Clydebank members.

The oratory over, a motion to adjourn consideration was defeated in favour of an

amendment to settle the issue there and then. Rather strangely the decision to rescind the motion

to erect a bakery for operation by Clydebank Society was passed unanimously.

During the proceedings a letter was received from the North British Railway Company

agreeing to construct a siding within the ground chosen at a cost of £65 to the Society. That document

was transferred to the U.C.B.S. after the unanimous agreement of the quarterly meeting of the

federation to build premises in John Knox Street, Clydebank.

“Thus went by the board” (a prominent Clydebank co-operator of later years wrote

regretfully) “Clydebank Society’s grandest opportunity for developing a line of business which would

certainly have been to-day (if under their ownership and control) the most valuable asset of the co-

operators of the burgh.” Few of the citizens of to-day have doubt, however about the wisdom of the

decision taken in 1901. The U.C.B.S. factory has been a boon to the burgh, providing as it does

employment for 500 workers, and the local Society has had no reason to regret the service received.

It is worthy of note at this stage that had the price of the adjoining ground been a bit more

reasonable the bakery would probably have had a fitting companion in the shape of S.C.W.S. flour

mill.

In the same year the Committee were authorised to open a dairy.

The death of Queen Victoria in June marked the end of an epoch-and the beginning of a

new era in the affairs of the nation and of Clydebank Society, which developed with increasing

rapidity. Becoming more confident of their power the members at last gave their unanimous approval

for participation in politics. In August they decided that Co-operative candidates should contest

municipal election, and to support those who would “do justice to the Society.” Dalmuir and Radnor

Park societies were invited to co-operate in the campaign.

That housing was a sore problem in those days as well as to-day is revealed by a reference

to “dilatoriness to the Town Council in proving house for the working class,” and a motion calling for

action.

IX. Majority Year

With the advent of 1902 the Society welcomed its majority year, and the records show that

the members had every reason for celebrating – which they did most heartily. A gala day was

selected as the best method of celebrating the “coming-of-age,” and the sum of £250 was

voted for the expenditure. The demonstration took place in June, and although the weather

was not on its best behaviour the citizens were stirred into enthusiastic appreciation of the

importance of the Co-operative organisation in their midst. Articles in the pages of the

Scottish Co-operator and the Co-operative News paid well deserved tribute to those who had

built up the Society. Certainly the position of the Society on the attainment of its majority

afforded splendid testimony to the business capacity, shrewdness, and organising the rapid

extension of the burgh, which had grown to be one of the busiest industrial towns west of

Glasgow, The population had increased from 2,750 to 19,000 during the 21 years of the

Society’s existence; buildings had risen on the green fields.

At the time of the celebration the membership was 2,028, the annual trade

£100,000, capital amounted to £42,281, and the profit totalled £11,198. During the 21 years

the members had received £84,256 as dividend on purchase, or double the amount of capital

subscribed, The business consisted of seven grocery shops; five fleshing shops; two boot

shops; fish, drapery, furnishing, tailioring, dressmaking, millinery, shoemaking, dairy and

coal departments.

Still greater developments lay ahead. Fired with enthusiasm by the interest created

by the 21st anniversary celebration the Board of Management, which had taken charge of

educational work, conducted a vigorous propaganda campaign. The result was a demand for

more shops. In the Radnor Park district three suites of shops, incorporating 12 departments,

were opened. At Dalmuir in the west and at Yoker in the east six and five new shops

respectively were provided. Those enterprises included the purchase of a building site at

Ferry Road, the erection at a cost of £9,000 of premises in Pollock Street and Walter Street,

and the acquisition of property in Livingstone Street.

MORE SHOPS

Much of the Committee’s time and energy during 1903 was spent in the same way

as they had finished the previous year – in providing new shops and improving existing

property for the benefit of the steadily rising membership. The most extensive alterations

were made in Alexander Street, where the whole street frontage of the Society’s property was

converted into shops.

While the new bakery premises of the U.C.B.S. were being carried to completion

the method of bread delivery was agitating the minds of management and members. That

which found most favour was direct delivery from the bakery to the member’s home, the idea

being to minimise handling. While the intention was good, the system failed to stand the test

of practice. The formal opening of the John Knox Street bakery took place on 12th

December,

when representatives of many societies attended, were shown through the handsome building,

entertained, and listened to speeches in which confidence in the venture was expressed. No

one will deny the optimism expressed on that memorable occasion was completely justified.

Whether to adopt the climax check system or to introduce the national cash register

method was a question that caused considerable thought, and the matter was remitted to a

special sub-committee consisting of four from the membership and three from the Board of

Management. Both systems were given a trial, and ultimately it was decided to introduce two

cash machines.

A MINOR MISTAKE

Few major mistakes were made by the Clydebank management. Like the best of

people, however they sometimes erred in minor matters, and within a few months of the

adoption of the national cash register system they revised their opinion and admitted that a

mistake

had been made in not selecting the alternative financial system of the climax check.

Experience in the operation of the business convinced the Committee that the cash register

should be discarded and replaced by climax checks. A section of the members, however,

proved rather stubborn in accepting the change over, and it was something of a struggle that

the Committee upheld their action in switching systems. When they first ventured to

recommend the change they were severely condemned by an opposing section of the

membership, and in the end they had to justify their position at a special general meeting,

which finally accepted the alteration.

Otherwise 1904 was an uneventful year. Extension of the business continued

steadily, and the Clydebank Society’s enterprise led to a clash with Radnor Park Society. As

well as opening shops in Kilbowie the Clydebank management negotiated the acquisition of

the two separate blocks of shops in Kilbowie Road (at an annual rental of £180). Objection

was taken by Radnor Park, who maintained this was an encroachment on their territory, and

they requested a conference between the two committees with a view to arriving at an

amicable arrangement. Clydebank, however, would not consent to debate the matter unless

the issue of amalgamation was also discussed, and Radnor Park would not hear of that.

UNSUCCESSUL PLEAS

In May of the following year the question of uniting the Clydebank and Radnor

Park societies was again raised. Gradually the idea was winning favour on both sides, and on

this occasion the respective memberships held special meetings to discuss the project. Two

representatives from the Scottish Section, Mr. James Deans and Mr. M’Culloch, were given

the opportunity of speaking and advocating union. Both men tried hard to convince

opponents of the scheme that fusion would be beneficial to the cause. Alas, old-time

prejudices proved too powerful, and the desirable was once more deferred. Their pleadings

were not entirely unfruitful, however, as their arguments won quite a number of additional

supporters for Co-operative unity in the burgh.

A dispute with the drapery manager placed the Committee in an awkward

predicament in the closing weeks of 1905. Following a batter-royal the manager resigned,

and the remainder of the staff in the department followed his example, and for a few days the

drapery business was almost at a standstill. A new manager was quickly appointed, however,

and he soon secured the services of new staff and stimulated trade in the department.

X. Semi-Jubilee

Saturday, 19th

October 1906, was a memorable day in the annals of the burgh. Upon that

date the co-operators of Clydebank celebrated the semi-jubilee of the Society, and in so doing

demonstrated the generosity and public-spiritedness of the Movement. A feature of the

celebration was the presentation to the burgh of a handsome granite drinking fountain bearing

the inscription: “Presented to the inhabitants of the Clydebank Co-operative Society Limited

on the occasion of their Semi-Jubilee, 1906.” The unveiling ceremony was the occasion of

one of the most remarkable Co-operative demonstrations held in the West of Scotland.

Between 6,000 and 7,000 children marshalled at Ferry Road, Yoker, in the early afternoon

and marched in procession through crowed streets to the Public School playground, where

each was presented with a lucky bag of pastry, fruit and confections. At the head of the

procession, led by the Clydebank Prize Band and Dumbarton Pipe Band, were a dozen

vehicles colourfully decorated and displaying slogans and emblems. Lining the route were

uniformed members of the Boys’ Brigade, who also assisted the police in forming an open

area round the site of the new fountain at the corner of Kilbowie Road and Rosebery Place.

Inside the ring were two lorries serving as a platform, and upon this officials of the Society

and representatives of the burgh took their places.

Mr. George Irvine, president of the Society, performed the unveiling ceremony, and

accompanying him were Mr. John M’Pherson, vice-president, who was chairman; Messrs,

John K. Brown, Alexander Fleming, and Thomas Ashcroft of the Board of Management;

Bailie M’Donald, S.C.W.S.; Mr. D. H. Gerrard; Rev. J. Buchanan Blake, U.F. Church; Rev.

Malcom M’Coll, Episcopal Church; Provost Taylor; Mr. C.P. Leiper, burgh treasurer; Bailies

Peffers, Cornock, M’Bride, and Ross; Councillors Sinclair, Wilson, Knox, M’Gee, Davidson,

and Carswell; Messrs. N. M’Nicol and J. Richardson, Glasgow and Suburbs Council.

After Mr. M’Pherson had referred to the Society’s gift and hinted about other

requirements which philanthropically-inclined citizens might bestow upon the burgh, Mr.

Irvine gave a brief resume of the Co-operative organisations accomplishments during the 25

years of its existence. In the course of a quarter of a century, said Mr. Irvine, they had

progressed from conducting one single grocery shop with little or no capital to the controlling

of 50 shops. Besides, they had the responsibility of holding about £70,000 of working-class

capital, and, possessed property to the value of £40,000 which, in their wisdom, they had

depreciated by £10,000. Mr. Irvine said that co-operators were twitted at times with being

dividend-hunters. There was perhaps a ray of truth in that, but if that were so they hunted

only for that which was their own, and there were embodied in the principles of Co-operation

ideals and ideas far above mere moneymaking; their aspirations were far more than mere

commercial prosperity, for they unhesitatingly asserted that they £28,000 divided annually

among the members went a great way towards alleviating and solving many of the trials that

surrounded the conditions of the working classes. During the 25 years the total dividend was

£150,000 – money that proved a welcome friend to many who felt the pinch of straitened

circumstances, especially in the times of labour strife and industrial depression.

It was also mentioned that the Society had spent £3,000 during the quarter of a

century of its existence on educational purposes.

Pulling the ribbon to unveil the fountain Mr. Irvine said: “Giving this fountain is

merely part of the benefits conferred upon the community by Co-operation. Had we more

universal co-operation we would have fewer of the great industrial struggles which now and

again enter into and break asunder the harmonious relations that should exist between

employer and employed. Of all the agencies for the amelioration of the working class none is

so much calculated to bring about a happy solution as the Co-operative Movement. Co-

operation is not aggressive. Co-operation seeks no plunder. It creates no destruction in

society. It means ‘self-help’ and ‘self-dependence’ and a fair share of the common

competence the labourer is entitled to.”

Acknowledging the gift Provost Taylor said he knew of no way whereby Co-

operative Society could better celebrate its semi-jubilee than by such a gift. He added:

“Clydebank is proud of its Co-operative Society. It says a great deal for the men of

Clydebank that they have a set of directors who can control that Society so well as they do,

and that the public of the burgh have so much confidence in them as to leave £70,000 in their

hands and feel assured that it is well looked after.”

A short speech was also delivered by Mr. D. H. Gerrard, who declared that the

drinking fountain would be a standing monument to the generosity of heart and the public

spirit which actuated the members of the Society, while it would also demonstrate the power

of associated effort.

The events of the day were followed by a reception in the evenening in the Town

Hall. At that gathering a toast to “The Pioneers” was proposed by Mr. R. K. Flemming, the

secretary, and one of the founders, Mr. Alexander Howie, replied. Mr. W. Montgomery, the

manager also took part in the proceedings, and he described the growth of the Movement as

“the wonder of the commercial world.”

The Management Committee at the time of the semi-jubilee comprised:-President,

Mr. George Irvine; vice-president, Mr John M’Pherson; manager, Mr, William Montgomery;

secretary, Mr. R. K. Fleming; booking-keeper, Mr. Alexander Raeburn; cashier, Mr. Daniel

M’Intyre; Board members – Messrs. Thomas Ashcroft, John K. Brown, Alexander Ewing,

George Gray, Hugh Gray, Joseph G. Lyon, James Murray, William Scott, and David

Robertson.

In the four years since the “coming-of-age” celebration membership had been

doubled, the report for the quarter ended 5th

September 1906 showing that the Society had

3,692 members. Sales amounted to £41,683; average weekly purchases per member were 17s.

4 ½d. Net profit of £7,135 gave a dividend of 2s. 9d. per £ of sales. Total distributive

expenses, including interest on capital and depreciation, were 1s. 6d. per £. Share and loan

capital totalled £68,869.

Those figures gave the co-operators of Clydebank every reason to be proud of their

Society and its achievements during the first quarter of a century of its existence.

POINTER OF POWER

So financially powerful had the Society become at the end of a quarter of a century

that it was able to set out on the second 25 years with the generous gesture of lending £8,000

to Clydebank Town Council so that the civic fathers could proceed with the development of

the burgh. It must be admitted that all the members did not support the Committee in making

this far-seeing move. It was a new departure, both for the Society and the council, and like

most new departures was not accepted without considerable controversy. When Councillor

Mackenzie suggested to the Town Council the idea of obtaining a loan from the Society at 5

per cent. instead of paying 7 per cent. for an overdraft from the bank he was accused of

seeking to push Co-operative interests – an unjust accusation that the anti-Co-operative clique

on the council failed to push home. In their bias they even tried to prove that the difference in

saving 7 and 5 per cent. was not 2 per cent.!

Opposition inside the Society was numerically weak but vocally strong, and their contention

was that the members’ money should not be loaned to public bodies at a cheap rate. They

wanted their full “pound of flesh.” Public spiritedness prevailed, however, and yet another

good deed goes to the credit of the Clydebank co-operators.

“MARRIAGE”

Annexation of the district of Radnor Park as part of the Burgh of Clydebank revived

thoughts of a similar fusion between the two Co-operative organisations in the communities.

A “marriage” between the co-operators on the hill and those in the valley had long been

mooted, but an assortment of reasons, personal and parochial, selfish and sentimental, had

always defeated the union. By 1908, however, the amalgamationists, had increased in number

and influence and those worthy co-operators, imbued with the desire to provide the greatest

good for the greatest number, determined to effect the desired unity.

First move in the final act took the form of a special meeting in Clydebank

boardroom on 10th

April, when representatives of the two directorates met under the

chairmanship of Mr. George Irvine, president of Clydebank. Heading the Radnor Park

deputation was their chairman, Mr. John Crichton, who in a review of the situation referred to

negotiations that had taken place three years previously. He admitted that then his society had

been mainly responsible for the failure of the talks, but his committee had since come to

realise that amalgamation was now not only advisable, but a necessity, and he had been

advised to request the conditions formerly proposed by Clydebank as a basis of mutual

agreement. Their sales had not decreased since then, and if union took place £20,000 per

annum would be added to the turnover of Clydebank Society. Radnor Park’s buildings had

been erected at a moderate cost and were up-to-date in every respect. Mr. Crichton concluded

by expressing the belief that the union of the societies would benefit greatly the cause of Co-

operation in the district.

Discussion on the 1905 proposals followed, and the meeting terminated with the

acceptance by the Clydebank Committee of an invitation to inspect the Radnor Park property.

As a sequel the question received notable attention a week later at the Clydebank

quarterly meeting in the Lesser Town Hall, where a motion submitted by Messrs. Dunn and

Kerr to empower the Committee to draft the terms of an amalgamation scheme was carried

unanimously.

No time was lost, and on 25th

April a meeting of the joint committees was held in

the boardroom of Radnor Park Society, when a statement of the proposed scheme of

amalgamation was submitted by Mr. Irvine.

It read as follows: -

PROPOSED SCHEME FOR THE AMALGAMATION OF

CLYDEBANK AND RADNOR PARK CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES

This Society and the Radnor Park Society shall be amalgamated under the following conditions:-

1. The name of the amalgamated society shall be the “Clydebank Co-operative Society Limited.”

2. The rules of the amalgamated society shall be the rules of the Clydebank Co-operative Society

Limited.

3. All the members of the above-named societies at the date of the registration of this resolution

shall be members of the amalgamated society, each of whom shall be credited in the books of

the amalgamated society with the like amount of shares, share capital, loans, deposits,

dividends, and interest as are standing to his or her credit in the books of the society of which he

or she is a member, as per balance-sheet valuation at the date of such registration.

4. The whole property and assets of the societies, both heritable and moveable, shall belong and be

transferred to the amalgamated society at the date of the registration of this resolution, and the

amalgamated society shall undertake all the obligation of the said societies at such date.

CONDITIONS TO BE MUTUALLY AGREED UPON BY THE TWO SOCIETIES

1. The stocks of the Radnor Park Co-operative Society shall be taken on 3rd

June 1908, as may be

arranged by the officials of the two societies jointly; and the books of the Radnor Park Society

shall be closed and balanced up to the same date. So soon as stocktaking is completed the books

of the said society shall be audited by the auditors of Clydebank Society and a balance-sheet of

the affairs of the aforesaid society made out at date of stocktaking. Dividend and interest shall

be paid by Radnor Park Society according to the results stated in the balance-sheet.

2. That all debts due by members of the Radnor Park Society unsecured by share capital based on

the value of the share, as per valuation, shall not be taken over as assets by the Clydebank

Society.

3. That the Radnor Park Society shall notify all its employees that the term of their engagement

shall cease on the date of the registration of the special resolution, and it shall be optional to the

Clydebank Society whether or not it shall take any of the said employees into the service of the

society.

4. That the Clydebank Society shall not be required to make good the salaries of the committees,

officials, or any employee of Radnor Park Society for the unexpired period of their

engagements.

5. If so desired an arrangement shall be made whereby a member from Radnor Park district shall

be appointed as soon as practicable to serve on the Board of Management of Clydebank Society

for a period of 12 months.

6. The total expenses incurred by the process of amalgamation shall be paid by the two societies in

proportion to their membership.

7. In the event of the registration of the special resolution, Radnor Park Society shall cease to exist

as a separate society on 3rd

June 1908, and shall immediately thereafter become part of

Clydebank Co-operative Society Limited.

Having heard the terms the chairman, Mr. Crichton, stated that the preliminaries, as

mentioned in the agreement, were quite in accordance with the requirements of the Act and

would doubtless be accepted. He invited discussion on the clauses embodying the conditions.

To only one of those – that dealing with members’ debts – did anyone raise objection. Bailie

Donald (Radnor Park) suggested that £50 should be taken from the reserve fund to cover the

entire deficit and thereby relieve the members of Radnor Park from the burden of an

encumbrance for which they could not be held responsible. An assurance was given by Mr.

Irvine that the Radnor Park plea would receive further consideration and that a way out

suitable to both parties would probably be found.

The question of dividends from federations was raised by Mr. Montgomery,

Clydebank manager, who deprecated the payment of dividends before being declared by the

federations, which had resulted in a depreciation of the reserve to £180.

At the close of the sitting it was agreed to convene special meetings of the members

of both societies on Tuesday, 5th

May, at which the scheme would be submitted for approval

or disapproval.

Confirmation of the promise regarding the question of Radnor Park members’ debts

was witnessed at the next meeting of the Clydebank Committee, and after some discussion, it

was decided to agree to the request to deduct the sum of £50 from reserve fund to meet the

deficit.

Then came the special meeting of the Clydebank members in the Lesser Town Hall,

at which the final decision to amalgamate was reached.

Mr. Irvine, who presided, reviewed the large drawn-out procedure of the

negotiations during the years when the attention, not only of the two societies chiefly

concerned, but of the Scottish Section, had been circling round the prospect of a union.

Dealing minutely with the details, he introduced the “fly in the ointment” – the Radnor Park

debt difficulty – and informed the meeting of the Committee’s decision. Appealing on behalf

of the interests at stake in both societies he wound up by advocating the application of that

unity which was now theirs to mould and which would consolidate the Movement within the

burgh.

Reading of the draft of the agreement was followed by some interesting expressions

of opinion, and the meeting was kept on tenterhooks as clause after clause was carefully

analysed and criticised.

Ultimately, Mr. Daniel Hope moved that Clydebank Society agree to the

amalgamation on the terms of the agreement submitted, and he expressed regret that the

decision to unite forces had not been made three years earlier.

The motion was seconded by Mr. Bulloch, supported by Mr. Neil, and passed

without a dissentient voice.

Thus was reached a goal of outstanding importance to Co-operation in Clydebank

and one which has through the years justified itself in every respect. Radnor Park district has

provided many of the most progressive men to guide the Society’s destinies, from the time

Mr. Crichton, the last president of the Radnor Park Society, took his seat on the Clydebank

board right up to the present day.

The Radnor Park - Clydebank “marriage” was not the only red-letter event during

1908.

HALL OPENED

A month after the union there occurred another auspicious happening – the opening of the

Hume Street hall and offices, the substantial suite of buildings which still serve the business

conveniences of the Society. The premises provided – as they do to-day – a handsome red

sandstone frontage in Hume Street. At one side of the block was constructed the doorway

opening to the stair which leads to the hall; on the other side was the front entrance to the

offices. The counting house and climax check office were placed on the ground floor, on the

first storey was the manager’s room, general office, and telephone exchange, while on the top

flat was the handsomely appointed Board and Committee rooms. The building was carried

right through to join the dairy, a grocery store, and a grocery dispatch department.

Since its erection the hall has proved a valuable asset to the Society as well as a

boon to the burgh. The Co-operative Hall has house many varieties of meetings, and if walls

could speak it could tell many an interesting tale – perhaps the most vivid of all being the

night when all its windows were shattered by the blast from a German bomb. But that is a tale

for a much later chapter.

At the opening ceremony Mr. George Irvine, a president of the Society, mentioned

that the scheme had cost the management a good deal of anxiety and the membership

between £11,000 and £12,000; but they rejoiced that they could at last meet within their own

walls and under their own roof, conscious of a much larger freedom and independence.

One of the pioneers, Mr. Alexander Howie, was given the well-merited honour of

proposing the toast of “The Co-operative Movement,” and he recalled outstanding events in

the 27 years since Co-operation was “launched” in Clydebank with a membership of 45.

Annual sales had risen from £3,760 the first 12 months to £213,157 for the past year. The

profit of £177 and dividend of 1s. declared on the initial 12 months trading were insignificant

compared with their past year’s profit of £25,430 and average dividend of 2s. 8 ¼d. Since

commencing business they had sold goods to the value of £1,127,822 and dividend a total

surplus of £197,285 among the members. Those figures,” declared Mr. Howie, “speak for

themselves as to what Co-operation has done for the working classes of the district.” The

increase in membership and trade was still going on, and in the last 12 months had been

phenomenal, the sales having exceeded the previous year’s total by £36,540. He ended his

fascinating review by expressing the hope that in the future, as in the past, the Clydebank

Society would go on and prosper, for the Co-operative Movement, unlike many other

agencies, had more benefits to distribute as its members increased.

Figures showing that the wider Movement was also expanding rapidly despite

adverse industrial conditions, were given by Mr. D. M’Culloch, Scottish Section in replying.

He remarked that the increasing strength of the societies and the enhancing of the sphere of

Co-operative productions was stimulating the most formidable opposition from private

trading concerns. “Every fresh start on the productive side of the Movement touches a fresh

source of wealth, and at the same time creates a fresh set of opponents to the Movement,”

declared Mr. M’Culloch, adding “Those opponents we will have to fight, and the close

societies keep together the more able they will be for the fight.”

The words of Mr. C. P. Leiper, bank agent, in toasting “The Clydebank Society”

gave an incentive to Co-operative action at a time when the Movement had declared itself

definitely committed to political action in furtherance of its principles. He expressed the

“strong hope that the Society would be more and more a thriving ground for public men” as

there were no retired merchants in the burgh able to look after public affairs, and he looked to

the Co-operative society to provide wise, honest, honourable, and to assist in fighting what

they had been finding too far too prevalent of late in the district.

As subsequent years revealed, Mr. Leiper’s invitation was accepted, and from the

Co-operative society the community has drawn some of its wisest and most enterprising

councillors.

XI. Dark Days

Waves of prosperity and adversity swept alternately over Clydebank. Some years the

hammers clanged continuously in the shipyards; others the stocks were empty and the

workless hung dejectedly around street-corners.

Among the very black years was 1909. Clydebank Co-operative Society felt the

chill blast. To tide them over the dark days of depression the members lifted no less than

£6,000 in share capital, sales slumped by close on £20,000, and the management were

compelled to suspend some of the employees, so few were the customers in some of the

shops. Yet the depression provided the Society with one of its best advertisements. The fact

that it was able to pay out £6,000 was not the whole story of the benefits of Co-operation in

those troublous times. In the years prior to the depression the capital of the Society had been

rising at the rate of £9,000 each year, and it is probable that practically all of that increase

was made up of dividend which the members, having no immediate use for, allowed to

accumulate. Thus not only were they able to use the thousands of pounds they would

normally have invested in the Society but for unemployment. In those dreary months more

and more of the people of Clydebank came to appreciate the Co-operation was the best

system ever devised to enable man to follow the policy so beloved of Mr. Micawber – live

within his income.

Another gesture that did not pass unnoticed by the community was an offer by the

Society to supply goods to the Parish Council at cost price – but because it would have

shamed certain individuals it was not accepted.

An active part was taken in combating the famous “Butchers’ Boycott,” which

followed a decision by the Glasgow Corporation to rescind a by-law regulating the

acceptance of all bona-fide bids in the Cattle Market. A deputation, sponsored by the Co-

operative Defence Association, paid an unsuccessful visit to the Glasgow Corporation, and

Clydebank co-operators took part in a demonstration of protest.

There were also several domestic upheavals during the year. Irregularities in the

central grocery led to the entire staff being summoned to appear before the board, who

ultimately decided to sack the manager and three of the assistants.

Grumbling about the buying policy led to Mr. Montgomery threatening to resign,

but the Committee passed a unanimous vote of confidence in the manager’s policy, declaring

that he had saved the Society a considerable sum of money. As a sequel, interviews were held

with various buyers of the S.C.W.S. and a number of improvements in the prices and services

of the Wholesale Society were effected.

First move to appoint an assistant manager was made in 1909, but the sub-

committee appointed to investigate the matter were opposed to the project, They agreed,

though, that Mr. Montgomery had too much to do, and he was relieved of some clerical work

by the office staff, while a head salesman was appointed for the central fleshing shop.

Another innovation was a conference between the Committee, the manager, and the heads of

departments to interchange opinions and make suggestions beneficial to the Society.

About this time, too, the employees had formed a flourishing dramatic club which

was able to present Shakespeare’s “Othello.”

COMPETITION FOR COMMITTEE

Despite a lock-out of boilermakers which kept the town’s industrial life at a low

ebb, trade improved during 1910 and reports showed that the Society was expanding in all

directions, from Scotstoun to Dalmuir.

With an increased membership competition for places on the Committee

intensified, and that inspired one resolution which called upon candidates to give the

members “an indication of their ability and fitness to fill such office efficiently.” The

proposal was vigorously debated, and was lost by only a small majority.

Installation of a milk pasteurising plant was talked about, a propaganda meeting

was held to explain the benefits of giving milk precautionary treatment, and the members

were invited to express their opinion on the question, but nothing definite was done at that

time.

The year 1910 was also notable for the adoption of the collective life assurance

scheme and the abolition and replacement of the token system by a credit system introducing

purchase books.

CARTERS’ STRIKE

Cracking the whip at the boss – even the Co-operative boss – was not a wise act in

those days, as is illustrated by a strike incident in 1911. Following the settling of a strike by

the Society’s carters the men informed the foreman on the Friday afternoon that they did not

intend to resume on the Saturday unless they were paid for the time they had been off on

strike. The Committee’s reaction was to tell the carters plainly that if they did not begin on

the Monday their services would be dispensed with. The Committee obtained service from

other sources, and while six of the men meekly returned in time for reinstatement all the older

hands remained out. At a special meeting a unanimous vote of confidence was passed by the

members in support of the Committee’s handling of the situation. On the following

Wednesday the men asked to be taken back, only to be told that their places had been filled.

“After lingering about the place for a time ,” a report states, “they quietly dispersed.”

By this time Clydebank’s population had swollen to 37,500 (approximately double

the figure just 10 years previously), while the Co-operative membership had risen to 5,200.

Many recruits were secured as a result of vigorous propaganda work by the women’s guilds,

which had grown greatly in size and influence.

With the days of an intertrading scheme yet afar off, a letter from St. Cuthbert’s

Association suggesting that one of their members in temporary residence at Clydebank

should receive the Edinburgh association’s rate of dividend for purchases made from the

local Society was regarded with curiosity – and disfavour. The Clydebank answer was that if

the member joined the local Society he would receive the full benefits of membership.

Instead of the annual gala, which had become one of the red-letter days on the

burgh, the Society decided to combine with the Town Council in celebrating the Coronation

of George V., and the sum of £50 was granted towards entertaining the children and old folk

of the town.

INDUSTRY CRIPPLED

Again in 1912 the workers had reason to bless the existence of the Co-operative

Movement. A coal strike described as “by far the most remarkable and sweeping insurrection

that Europe has seen since the great French Revolution” had crippling effects on British

industry, and Clydebank, of course, as a centre of the heavy industries, felt the full force of

the stoppage. The strike lasted so long that, not for the first of last time, it was predicted that

the country was rushing to national ruin. The crisis passed, however without leaving any

damaging effects on the Co-operative organisation, which aided the sufferers over unhappy

weeks with grants as well as capital withdrawals.

SALES SOAR

Sales soared to within £4,000 of the quarter of a million mark, and at the member’s

annual social the president, Mr. Samuel Maxwell, proudly claimed that “if the Society’s

profits were distributed among the private traders in the district it would give them each

£100” – not of course, that he suggested such and action!

Because of Clydebank’s large trade in the Dalmuir area feeling between the town’s

two Co-operative organisations became exceedingly bitter, and a proposal by Clydebank that

the two should amalgamate was unceremoniously rejected by the Dalmuir members. A report

of a Glasgow and Suburbs Association meeting reflects the acrimony. An allegation was

made that “members of the Dalmuir committee were favourable to the amalgamation, but

when it came to the vote they voted the other way,” and another Clydebank delegate asserted

that his Society was going to work “as if Dalmuir did not exist.” Again, at a Dalmuir

gathering their managing-secretary, Mr. A. W. Young, declared that Clydebank had opened

up shops in Dalmuir “not for the benefit of Co-operation or co-operators, but simply and

solely not to crush the Dalmuir Society out of existence, and in this it had signally failed.”

(Clydebank opened three shops in Dalmuir in August 1912.)

EFFECTIVE WORK

The celebrated Dr. Suprgeon once decalred: “No committee should have more than

three members – and when any important business has to be done two of them should be

absent.” The trio of Clydebank Board members charged with educational duties certainly

sought to prove that three men could be effective, and the cultural and instructional activities

of that committee reached a new peak of achievement in 1913. Four women’s guilds, with

about 200 members, were in operation, numerous propaganda meetings were held, there was

a book-keeping class for employees, a select female choir, and an Esperanto class.

On the trading side, too, the year was highly satisfactory. On the occasion of a

celebration to mark his 25th

anniversary in the Society’s service, Mr. Montgomery gave some

illuminating figures, stating that in a quarter of a century membership had grown from 280 to

6,500 and annual sales from £12,000 to £300,000, while expenditure of £74,500 on land and

buildings had been depreciated to £55,000. Mr. Montgomery’s contribution to that success

was highly praised, reference being made to “his keenness as a buyer, his shrewdness and

wisdom, and his gentlemanly treatment of the employees.”

XII. War In Europe

In April 1914 W. Martin Haddow, a prominent Glasgow Socialist, gave a lecture under the

auspices of the Clydebank Society on “Saving God’s Children,” in which he extolled the

virtue of the Germans in spending money on the education and cultural improvement of their

children; four months later the Germans were smashing their way through Belgium and they

and Britain were at war!

The year had commenced quietly enough. With little or no indication that before

many months they would be torn away from their homes to battle on the fields of France and

Flanders, the male co-operators of Clydebank had formed the first Co-operative Men’s Guild

in Scotland. The principal office-bearers of that pioneer branch, in which 42 members

enrolled at the inaugural meeting in April, were Mr. J. Waterhouse, president; Mr. M. Hunter,

vice-president; Mr. W. Lappin, secretary; and Mr. H. Burnett, treasurer.

With no thoughts of the impending upheaval the Society had started the erection of

a new £26,000 drapery warehouse in Alexander Street. The scene of the building operations

was the first “shot” in a 600-feet film of the proceedings at the annual gala day. This was the

first occasion the gala had been filmed, and a specially fine programme had been arranged. A

feature was a parade of directors, heads of departments, the committees of the five women’s

guilds and the men’s guild, and the “has-beens,” including pioneers and past directors of the

Clydebank and former Radnor Park Society. The day was spent happily by old and young. It

proved to be the burgh’s last merry gathering for four sad years.

On 4th

August the catastrophe of was fell upon Europe. The first reaction in

business circles was one of panic, and the Co-operative Movement did not escape entirely.

Fearing a shortage of supplies managers and buyers besieged the Wholesale Society’s

grocery warehouse immediately it opened on the Monday morning after the fateful

declaration of war. Sugar and flour were in particularly heavy demand, and in the course of

the morning prices soared by 50 per cent. While the managers were alert the members were

no less anxious to safeguard themselves against shortage, and all day the Clydebank shops,

like those of other businesses, were crowed with people seeking to purchase large quantities

of commodities. In many cases whole bags of sugar and flour were ordered, and there was

much grumbling because only the normal weekly supplies were sold. The Clydebank

management quickly sized up the position and refused to participate in the “get-rich-quick”

policy of their competitors. In the few days of crisis when there was a feverish demand on the

part of some people to buy at any price the Society maintained prices at the normal rate and

treated generously those members whose pockets were hit by the impact of the war on

industry. In doing this at a time when other traders in the district were advancing their prices

by between 100 and 200 per cent. the Society gave a greater impetus to the Movement’s

prestige than scores of propaganda meetings could possibly have done.

Consequently, sales for the first 10 weeks following the outbreak of war jumped by

£6,214 and membership leapt to and beyond the 7,000 mark.

Works that depended upon the European countries for a market closed down, and

thousands of Singer’s workers were thrown idle, but the balance was restored somewhat by

the demand for labour in the shipyards, which operated night and day. Nevertheless, many

suffered by the industrial upheaval, and the Co-operative Committee gave consideration to

those members upon whom idleness was enforced. In addition, they voted £100 to the local

charities. A thoughtful gesture was made, too, to employees who volunteered for the Armed

Forces; all married men and unmarried men with dependants were granted full pay less

military allowances.

POSTER APPEAL

Loss of many young men to the Forces and to war industries was severely felt

before many months of 1915 had gone. “Our employees have responded nobly to the call,”

stated the Educational Committee in a window poster which called attention to staffing

problems and urged members to show tolerance with the service. “Even our message boys are

doing their bit,” added the poster, “They have left their grocers’ and butchers’ baskets aside

to assist the Government in the munition factories and shipyards, therefore we sincerely trust

that our members oblige us by conveying their own goods with the exception of weighty

parcels, which we will endeavour to deliver.”

Other difficulties loomed ahead. Discrimination in the allocation of supplies of

commodities and profiteering led to the passing of a resolution that called upon the

Government to take over the food and coal supplies and the shipping services with a view to

prices being reduced to a level compatible with the wages received by the working class.

Co-operators were closely associated with the formation for a Fair Rent League,

Mr. Matthew Hunter, a prominent member of the Society, being the prime mover in the

setting up of the organisation, which did valuable work in protecting the people from the

greed of property owners.

The Movement won many new adherents as the result of its endeavours to protect

the consumers, and the Clydebank Educational Committee were not slow to follow up with

propaganda work. On the occasion of the opening of new premises in Bannerman Street a

novel and topical poster was issued. It said:

CLYDEBANK CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY LIMITED

EDUCATIONAL COMMITTEE

WE DON’T WANT CONSCRIPTION

But what we do want is every available person to join the

above Society in order to

REPULSE EVERY ATTACK

made upon the people’s food by the trusts and combines.

You can be attested at any of the grocery departments

or at the office, 11 Hume Street Clydebank.

Apart from these posters the committee organised a series of open-air propaganda

meetings, at which addresses were given by directors.

At the same time as the Great War was being fought out in Europe a minor Co-

operative “war” was taking place to the north of Clydebank. Blairdardie Society was showing

signs of foundering with the strains of the times, and envious eyes upon that area were being

cast by the Anniesland, Clydebank and Milngavie societies. Representatives from Clydebank

visited Blairdardie and had amalgamation talks with the local board, but without material

result. Equally fruitless was an approach to Dalmuir, and the sequel to this failure was a

majority decision by the Clydebank members to open a suite of shops, including grocery,

fleshing, dairy, boot, fish, and fruit departments in the west of the burgh for the benefit of

their Dalmuir members.

BOOM TOWN

No town in Britain benefited more than Clydebank from the boom in the iron and

steel trade brought on by the war. Ships, submarines, shells, guns, tanks, mines – work on all

those instruments and implements of destruction kept the townspeople toiling night and day,

and the consequent steep stepping-up in the worker’s incomes was reflected in the sales of

the local Co-operative Society. To serve the rapidly rising membership numerous new shops

were opened, and by the middle of 1916 the Society had no fewer than 18 grocery, 13

fleshing, 13 dairy, 8 fish, 6 boot, 4 drapery, and 3 fruit branches. No opportunity of

expanding was lost by the management, and Clydebank won the reputation, which it has

never lost, of being one of the most go-ahead organisations in the country.

Growth brought its troubles, though. A circular of protest showed how

disproportionate was the amount of sugar supplied to the Society to the great increase in

membership on the two years since the outbreak of war. So little satisfaction did

representations evoke that the members were driven towards a greater realisation of the need

for political protection. The local Educational Committee took the initiative in calling a

conference to discuss political action in the constituency. At the meeting, at which Mr.

Robert G. Yates presided and Mr. Matthew Hunter was the principal speaker, it was made

plain that the time had come when party traditions and prejudices would require to give way

to support of a principle – the Co-operative principle. It was considered that the struggle for

the Movement’s future existence had begun. The Excess Profits Tax had been applied, and

the threat of taxing dividend had been made. Both those measure were regarded as

deliberately organised attacks upon the Movement; therefore political action in some shape or

form was regarded as an urgent necessity if Co-operation was to have the liberty to continue

and develop. The result of the meeting was the formation of a federation of the

Dumbartonshire societies for the purpose of defending their interests and organising their

voting strength at the first Parliamentary election. The argument put up against the proposal

to tax dividend was that co-operators could not make profit out of themselves; therefore no-

one was entitled to regard their trading surplus in the same light as the profits returned by

private companies.

With common enemies to confront the relationship between the neighbours,

Clydebank and Dalmuir, developed more amicably – an indication of that pleasant change

being the holding of a joint propaganda meeting to protest against the injustices being meted

out of the Movement.

Other noteworthy features of the year were the formation of the works department

and the holding of a new type of function – an entertainment for new members.

XIII. Submarine Menace

German submarines menaced the country’s food supplies in the early months of 1917, and

with shortages intensified Co-operative efforts to secure a fair share of the available

commodities had to be increased. No provision had been made for the drift of population

caused by wartime industrial changes, and as the Clydebank district was one of the chief

sufferers on account of this Government failure a deputation consisting of local co-operators

and councillors travelled to London to put the facts before the Sugar Commission. They

pointed out the injustice of basing the current allocation of supplies on the pre-war

population. Mr. John Nicholson, chairman of the Society, produced figures to show the

inadequacy of the supplies being received, and Mr. Matthew Hunter advocated the

introduction of a system of rationing goods in short supply so that all would receive a fair

share – a proposal which showed that co-operators, as always, had constructive proposals to

present.

Such fair play did not, however, make much appeal to those in charge of the

nation’s food, and the newly-formed Dumbartonshire Defence Federation took a hand in the

agitation by organising a procession. That demonstration marked the beginning of the

realisation by co-operators that it was futile to secure justice without action inside the House

of Commons. They were determined to win their way inside and to help control the political

machinery themselves. At the demonstration the Dumbartonshire co-operators pledged

themselves not to support any Parliamentary candidate who was not pledged to promote and

protect the interests of the Movement by progressive legislation. They also agreed to organise

the constituency (in accordance with the resolution passed a Swansea Congress) so as to

ensure direct representation in Parliament and on local administrative bodies.

A lead to others was also given when the Clydebank management decided to reduce

the price of goods to little over cost – a bold experiment that was most successful and

resulted in further stimulation of business, as well as in the avoidance of the Excess Profits

Tax.

Long delayed by wartime restrictions, the opening of the handsome drapery in

Alexander Street was at last proceeded with in September of 1917. Three years had elapsed

since the local Committee had been authorised to proceed with this £30,000 project, which

was the outcome of an unsuccessful agitation for the opening of the S.C.W.S. drapery and

furnishing departments on Saturday afternoons for the completion of the building the co-

operators became the owners of the largest and finest business premises in the district – a

distinction they can still claim, for the drapery towers conspicuously above all the other shops

in the burgh. Four storeys high, they building was designed in a simple and dignified

Renaissance style, with a total frontage of 256 feet. An outstanding feature is the dome,

which lughts the various floors by means of a circular well. The dome is supported by four

large square columns with its gilded cornice forms and effective central feature.

Following the opening ceremony a dinner took place in the Town Hall, where a

number of interesting speeches giving details of the Society’s proud record were delivered.

By then they Clydebank Society could claim that four out of every five householders in the

town were within its ranks. At the function it was proudly reported that in the 36 years of its

existence the Society had sold over £4,000,000 of goods and had returned £500,000 in

dividend to the members. It had 70 shops, 421 employees, and a capital of £190,491.

When a proposal to elect an Educational Committee separate from the Board of

Management was submitted the chairman, Mr. John Nicolson, said that in view of the

Society’s phenomenal growth he had had forced upon him the conviction that a separate

committee was necessary; so on this occasion the members gave their consent.

ANGRY HOUSEWIVES

Before the calm the storm. Before the peace the strife. And who should create the

storm in Clydebank in 1918, before the great day of rejoicing with the singing of Armistice

on 11th

November, but the vigilant co-operative housewives! They were thoroughly justified

in taking drastic action to demonstrate against still another instance of anti Co-operative

discrimination.

On Saturday, 9th

March, the Society’s fleshing shops had to close down because of

the failure of the meat supply, thus leaving hundreds of members faced with the prospect of a

meatless week-end. There was still no sign of supplies and the shops remained closed on

Monday despite endeavours of the management, so in the afternoon 50 guildwomen set off

for Glasgow determined to interview the Government’s food officials. They were

sympathetically received, but there was still no meat in the shops on the Tuesday morning, so

that evening the women called a meeting which filled the Co-operative Hall to capacity,

while many were left outside. Mrs. Wilson (Radnor Park) took the chair amid great

excitement, and after short speeches by Mrs. M’Gregor, Mrs. Pollock, Mrs. Macdonald, Mr.

Nicholson (president), Mr. Montgomery (manager), and Mr. Grieve (Educational Committee

member), a committee of 12 was appointed to co-operate with the Board of Management and

put forward the views of the women who showed emphatically that they were determined to

submit no longer to the injustices being meted out to the Movement.

On the Thursday evening the general meeting was due. It had been the custom to

allow the wives of members to be present in the gallery, but on this occasion the number of

persons seeking admission was so great that it was impossible to transact any business and

the meeting had to be adjourned. For the adjourned meeting the Town Hall was booked and

there 1,700 members – a record number – assembled. There were no turbulent scenes, a

statement by Mr. M’Devitt, a member of the Society and agent for the Liberal Party in the

district, satisfying the gathering.

Trouble also broke out over the inequitable distribution of margarine, leading to a

demand by the Board of Management for the resignation from the local Food Control

Committee of a private trader who had allocated eight cwt. of margarine to himself and only

two cwt. to the Society, although it comprised 60 per cent. of the total consumers in the town.

A protest brought little satisfaction.

Despite this unfair treatment, and the fact that the members agreed to a change of

rule to allow the allocation of money for political purposes, the membership wavered in

taking action to strengthen the Movement’s position in Parliament. They turned down a

proposal to have a working agreement with the Labour Representation Committee to secure

Parliamentary representation, whereupon the Society’s public bodies committee resigned, Mr.

Robert G. Yates maintaining that such inconsistency made the committee’s work futile. This

the public bodies committee disappeared, but from the ashes arose a more innocuous body,

the vigilance committee, whose activities were confined to putting questions to candidates for

Parliament.

Soon after the Armistice that ended the four years of was the country was plunged

into a General Election (Lloyd George’s “coupon” election), and those far-seeing, politically-

minded co-operators worked hard to return candidates who would give the Movement justice.

Amid these major national happenings, events, concerning the Society during 1918

were insignificant, but it is interesting to note that a section of members showed their

enterprise by suggesting that the Society should open a shop in far-off Rothesay! Scarcity of

labour and the difficulty of obtaining supplies forbade such a project, however.

BEATING THE TAX

Like many other societies Clydebank was badly hit when in 1919 it was discovered

that the method of computation of the Excess Profits Tax was based, not on the rate per £ of

dividend, but on the gross profit, thus causing depletion of the reserve fund by over £3,000.

By March the liabilities for E.P.T. reached the sum of £7,773. When it became known that

provision was made for reclaiming sums paid in that way Mr. John M. Biggar, the auditor,

strongly recommended selling at low prices with reduced dividend in order to recover what

was generally considered an unjust tax. The Board readily agreed, as did the members, with

the happy result that the Society received from the Assessor every penny paid in E.P.T.

In politics the Society continued to be “wobbly.” By a very narrow majortity it was

agreed to be represented in the annual May Day procession, while there was a prolonged and

heated discussion as the result of a grant of £20 to the Labour College. The Committee were

rapped over the fingers at the quarterly meeting for submitting the issue to arbitration without

first consulting the members, and the part of the minute reporting the arbiter’s decision was

erased from the minutes as being “out of place” and “entirely illegal.”

Again the Board was chastised when the members sent a telegram to the president

of Carlisle Congress condemning the action of the Board in allowing the Clydebank delegates

to have a “free hand” to vote on the question of conscription.

Good work by the employees during the war is revealed in a report regarding the

winding up of the relief fund. During the period from September 1914 till February 1919 the

sum of £936 was subscribed by the employees, and £855 was disbursed in grants to serving

employees’ widows and dependants and to various hospitals and charities. Twelve men gave

their lives in the conflict, and their memories are perpetuated in a tablet at the entrance to the

Hume Street Office. Those who died where:-

JOSEPH AIRD HUGH SOMERVILLE

THEODORE BRADY THOMAS RANKIN

THOMAS CALDWELL WALTER THOMSON

ROBERT MORTON ROBERT SPITTAL

ROBERT ROSS JAMES GALE

JOHN WATSON JAMES HOUSTON

Features of the first post-was year were the attainment for the first time of the

10,000 membership and £250,000 sales marks; the purchase of Auchinleck Farm; the

inauguration of a magazine; and the purchase from the Liberal Association of clubrooms in

Alexander Street.

CORPORATION TAX

“Non-belligerent” describes the role of the Clydebank Society when the Co-

operative Movement’s fight with the Government over the Corporation Tax reached its

climax in 1920. Those who believed that interference in politics would be harmful continued

to wield the greater influence, with the result that the Society took no part in the agitation

against the passing of the tax, which involved payment to the Government of 1s. for every £1

a Co-operative society devoted to the reserves, to depreciation of stocks, land and buildings,

to education, to interest on shares – in fact, to any purpose other than payment of dividend.

The failure of co-operators to organise their resources and return to Parliament

representatives favourable to their cause had the inevitable result of the Corporation Tax

being approved by Parliament. Their fight, however, was not entirely in vain, as the agitation

was sufficiently powerful to mellow the Finance Bill and many of the harsher injustices

originally drafted were left out. Another beneficial effect was that the opposition created a

greater respect for the Movement among M.P.s.

So disgusted were those in favour of political participation by Clydebank with the

majority who supported neutrality – “the faint hearts” they were bitingly called – that they

actually moved the rejection of resolutions they favoured. It was, for instance, Mr. Robert G.

Yates, one of the most ardent Socialists among the members, who moved “In view of the fact

that we make no effort to carry out the recommendations of Congress that we be not

represented at Bristol Congress and that we make no protest against the tax on Co-operative

reserves, but just take our gruelling.”

This backwardness, however, was confined to the political outlook, and in business

and social progress there was no lack of enterprise. A

£225,500 building scheme was embarked upon, and enlarged premises, consisting of a

grocery and provisions department, pastry, fruit and confectionary counters were opened in

Alexander Street, and the principle of direct labour in new building ventures was adopted.

In education, too, there was no lack of initiative. In the new rooms in Alexander

Street a gymnasium was fitted up, while no fewer than six choirs were conducted. The junior

choir was particularly successful, winning the championship in their initial appearance in the

Scottish Co-operative Musical Festival, also first places at the Dumbartonshire and

Edinburgh festivals.

The last of the 128 employees who had been called away on war service returned to

their jobs and all were entertained as a token of the Society’s appreciation to their sacrifices.

XIV. The Slump

Darkest period in Clydebank’s whole history began soon after the bells had ushered in the

year 1921. The post-war boom played itself out, and the slump struck Clydeside with its full

force, laying a deadly silence over the town of ships and sewing machines. It was then that

Clydebank became known as “the town of stunted steeples,” because the slump stopped all

building and left new churches half finished. Few of the male population enjoyed a full

week’s work, and most were totally unemployed.

To meet the distress the Clydebank Society management decided to cut prices of

essential foodstuffs. Some of the comparisons with the private trade were:-

Co-operative Private Trade

Sugar - - - - 8 ½ d. lb. 10 d. lb.

Bread - - - - 1/3 4-lb. loaf 1/4 ½ 4-lb. loaf

Cheese - - - - 1/4 lb. 1/6 lb.

Margarine - - - 1/- lb. 1/2 lb.

Oatmeal - - - -3/8 stone 4/- stone

Sales, naturally, slumped, and gradually the Society moved into the shadow that

shrouded the entire country.

An impressive ceremony in March 1921 was the unveiling of a bronze and oak

tablet in the entrance hall of the Hume Street offices to the memory of the 12 employees who

fell in the Great War. The solemn ceremony was presided over by Mr. A. R. Raeburn,

accountant. Unveiling the memorial, Mr. W. Montgomery, general manager, paid a moving

tribute to “the men who did their bit in the great cause of liberty.” Mr. Montgomery added, “

They went forth to do their duty knowing that they went out on a dangerous and hazardous

task.” Tribute was also paid to the brave deceased by Mr. Robert G. Yates, the newly-elected

chairman, who declared the world had a great lesson to learn from such an occasion – the

necessity of avoiding another such tragedy. Alas, as the years were to prove, the lesson was

not learned.

Another sad event in 1921 was the passing of the Society’s first president, Mr.

Richard Livingston, and a man to whom the Society and town owed much.

The year ended on a brighter note, with the granted to Co-operative societies of

exemption from the highly unpopular Corporation (Profits) Tax. It was an outstanding victory

for the Movement and an indication of the decision to seek political influence.

WAGES CUT

Bleaker than ever became the industrial condition of the burgh in 1922. Commerce

in Europe was at its lowest ebb since the signing of the Armistice, and the depression in

Britain was intensified by the strife, first in the mining then in the engineering and allied

trades. Backed by a short-sighted Government, the employer imposed heavy wage reductions

upon the working classes, whose consequent impoverishment led to deflation of the home

market demand. The workers were forced to confine their purchases to the bare necessities of

life, a state of affairs that was vividly reflected in the trading returns of the Society.

Nevertheless, the management were able to boast at the June quarterly meeting that “although

Clydebank has been hit harder than any other district by the depression the Society shows

robustness and vigour.” Events proved that contention. It was obvious that the Board were

not prepared to accept adversity lying down. With great courage they planned and put into

effect new ventures. High on steep Kilbowie Hill a handsome new store was opened to cope

with the trade of the people in the north of the town. This suite of shops possessed 14 brightly

dressed windows which quickly attracted many new customers from the corporation housing

scheme.

To meet dissatisfaction with the bakery service, the Board acquired premises

containing two ovens, which were promptly put into working order and used for the

production of morning rolls, teabread, and cakes. Thus for the first time the Society did its

own baking and was able to capture trade that had been passing into other channels.

Stamp trading was introduced, a motor charabanc and car-hiring service was

started, and the first moves made in the provision of a funeral undertaking service.

As capital decreased by £33,800 and quarterly sales by close on £48,000, it will be

agreed that the men in charge were individuals with no mean degree or courage.

Economies had to be made, however, and when the energetic Educational

Committee reported in October that they were in debt to the extent of £450 drastic action was

taken to curtail their activities. The issue was the subject of many hectic and heated debates.

The Educational Committee members offered to serve without salary, but their gesture was

rebuffed. They next asked the Society to wipe off the debt, but this suggestion the members

also rejected. When the members of the committee tendered their resignations en bloc the

monthly meeting refused to accept them.

Another economy was effected by sacrificing membership of the Glasgow and

District Conference Association.

An interesting insight into the affairs of the Society is provided by the fact that

towards the end of 1922 (the December quarter), the dividend declared was 7d. in the £ - the

lowest ever paid – and it was only paid by raiding the reserves. Actually, little or nothing was

available for distribution, but the Board decided that they would be justified in nibbling at the

reserves to retain the confidence of the members.

LOW DIVIDEND

While willing to use the reserves to tide the organisation through a crisis the Board

were not prepared to do anything to endanger the financial stability of the Soceity, and the

chairman, Mr. Yates, strongly resisted a move at the first half-yearly meeting in 1923 to

augment the dividend by 3d. by raiding £3,000 from the allocation for depreciation. There

had been some resentment among the members at the continuance of a 7d. dividend, but they

accepted the explanation that the low rate of profit was due entirely to the continued

unemployment and the abnormal demands for increased rents, rates, and taxes and not to

mismanagement. Indeed, the opinion was expressed that the Board had shown commendable

efficiency, and the chairman was strongly supported in his refusal to accept the motion

proposing deduction from depreciation.

At the same meeting the emoluments and expenses allowances of the Committee

were cut.

About this time the principle that all employees of the Society must be trade

unionists was introduced.

Many members left the country in 1923 in search of better conditions abroad. A

notable departure for Canada (for a holiday only) was Mr. Matthew Hunter, who had been

secretary during the three trying preceding years and one of the leading co-operators in the

community since the start of the century. An energetic, diligent office-bearer, a fluent speaker

whose services as a propagandist were in great demand, and a gifted writer of prose and

poetry, Mr. Hunter is due special thanks for his work in compiling the first history of the

Society. Some of Mr. Hunter’s poems were inspired by events in the Society’s history.

Published in the Scottish Co-operator a month or so before Mr. Hunter’s departure was the

following poem dealing with the development of the touring trade:-

Let me sing you a song of the charm of the road

That leads away out of the town,

Of the glens and the hills and the glimmering rills

And the woods that are turning to brown ;

Of the magical lure of the meadow and moor

And the generous heart of the wild,

Where eloquent silence of nature enchants

The soul of the world-weary child.

Clydebank Society actually conducted the first bus service between the town and

Dumbarton.

XV. Union with Dalmuir

An important advance towards the consolidation and strengthening of the Co-operative

forces in the area was the amalgamation of the Clydebank and Dalmuir societies in 1924.

That union was one of the few good things arising from the slump. Left weak and wobbly by

the severe blow of trade depression Dalmuir decided that it would be wise to sacrifice their

long-cherished independence, and in the end the much-resisted fusion was approved, without

much bother. On 15th

May the ancient hatchet was buried, and the Clydebank Society was

given a membership of 11,329, share capital of £104,094, reserves of £30,585, and trade of

£470,840. At the Clydebank meeting, at which the amalgamation was approved - by 137

votes to 0 – it was announced that the Clydebank shares were worth 23s. 6d. per £ and the

Dalmuir shares 12s. 1d. per £. This event marked the end of years of friction that might have

been avoided away back in 1881 had the Dalmuir committee only agreed to open a branch in

the tiny village of Clydebank. Had that happened, of course, no such society with the name of

Clydebank would have existed to-day.

With the town showing signs of emerging from the industrial slough the local Co-

operative management, with the characteristic courage and enterprise of the predecessors,

looked around for fresh fields of conquest.

Most important of their decisions concerned the erection of a new and up-to-date

creamery, for which 5,100 square feet of land was acquired in Chalmers Street. Another new

venture was the opening of the first drug shop. At the same time agreement was reached with

the United Co-operative Baking Society regarding the small bakery conducted in Alexander

Street. A service satisfactory to the members was promised by the U.C.B.S., and from the

deal the Society emerged with quite a profit.

An increase of 3d. in dividend gave trade some impetus, as did an exhibition of Co-

operative productions conducted by the S.C.W.S. in the Town Hall. At the opening of the

exhibition Mr. David Kirkwood, who had entered Parliament as the burgh’s first Socialist

M.P. two years previously, paid a warm tribute to the part played by the local Society in

helping those who had been “up against it” during the worst of the slump.

A notable event during the year was the honouring by the S.C.W.S. of Mr.

Alexander Howie, one of the Clydebank pioneers, who was presented with an illuminated

address – a gift which is popularly known as the Scottish Co-operative “V.C.”

At the presentation ceremony Mr. James Boag, president of the Society, declared

truly that “Mr. Howie always worked for the benefit of the Society and not for money.”

Handing over the address on behalf of the S.C.W.S., Sir Robert Stewart recalled that Mr.

Howie had worked for Clydebank “when it was a very weak child,” and as the Society now

had a splendid pile of buildings to its credit Mr. Howie had proved “a capital nurse.” He had

belonged to a brand of workers who, with no practical experience or business training to

guide them, had fought an uphill fight, but with patience and perseverance had laid the

foundations of a structure that had proved a blessing to thousands of men and women.

Acknowledging that well-merited tribute, Mr. Howie recalled his Co-operative

interests since 1872 – as a director of Clydebank, the U.C.B.S., and the Co-operative Drapery

and Furnishing Society; and, commenting on the development of the Movement locally and

the recent amalgamation remarked: “Dalmuir’s first mistake was that instead of branching out

in Clydebank they allowed a fresh society to be formed.”

Another honour bestowed upon the Society in 1924 was the election of a former

director, both of Clydebank and Radnor Park, Mr Samuel MacDonald, to the position of

Provost of the Burgh.

Reaching a crisis in the closing weeks of the year was an issue – the Rent Dispute –

in which local co-operators took a leading part. For two years the attention of parliament and

other local authorities had been almost continuously focused on Clydebank as the result of

the stand taken by the citizens against rent increases permitted by the passing of the Increase

of Rent and Mortgage Interest Restriction. Act. There was much agitation and non-payment

of rent, and for many months tenants fought off the increases, but in the end most of the

property owners had their cases upheld in the Court of Session.

NEW CREAMERY

Outstanding event of 1925 was the opening of the new creamery.

It was an occasion for justifiable pride on the part of the co-operators. Increasing attention

had been given in the early ‘20s to milk supplies from the public health point of view. The

old standards depending largely upon the senses of taste and smell and the relative

proportions of solids and cream were no longer regarded as the ultimate basis for a proper

judgment of quality. Scientific investigation had revealed that there was a large amount of

preventable tubercular disease in young children due to neglect of proper precautions.

Reference to the commendable determination of the directors to ensure a healthful

milk supply for the community was made at the opening on 5th

September by Mr. Albert

Hughes, vice-president, who expressed the Board’s belief that in such a matter of providing a

modern creamery “the best was the cheapest.”

All along the Society had striven to give the people the purest supply of milk that

could be procured, said Mr. James Boag, president, in declaring the building open, but until

then the supply had been just as it came from the farmers. It had been found that the supply

was not as clean and pure as it should be, and on learning that the directors had decided to

purify the milk and give the people a supply guaranteed free from dirt and germs and disease.

The name of Mr. John B. Walker was mention by Mr. Boag at the luncheon held

later in the day. Mr. Walker, it appeared raised the cry for a creamery many years previously

when he sat on the Board. Indeed, he came to be regarded by the other members as a kind of

nuisance and acquired the nickname of “The Milkman” because no matter what the subject

they started to talk about he always dragged them round to the need for a purer milk supply!

Tribute to Mr. Walker’s persistency and foresight was also paid by Sir Robert

Stewart, S.C.W.S. president, who expressed gratification that that day Clydebank’s “Johnny

Walker” was “still going strong.”

When it was opened the creamery had a bottling capacity of about 2,000 gallons of

milk per day, and it also supplied the Renfrew, Anniesland, and Duntocher and Hardgate

societies.

GENERAL STRIKE

Peculiar problems arose for the Co-operative Movement out of the General Strike,

which paralysed Britain for 10 days in May 1926. The strike, which was declared by the

Trades Union Congress General Council in support of the miners, who were locked out by

the employers after refusing to accept an all-round wages reduction of 13 1/3 per cent. and an

increase of one hour in the working day, involved Co-operative managers in a tremendous

amount of worry and trouble. It often happens in a fight that the non-combatant suffers the

heaviest blows, and in some respects that was the fate of Co-operative Movement during the

General Strike. By adhering strictly to the trade union terms the Co-operative societies

sometimes had to suffer delays that did not trouble their competitors. In some places there

was irritation and trouble, but on the whole the people of Clydebank showed understanding.

It happened that at the time of the strike Mr. William Montgomery, the general manager, was

seriously ill, but his assistant, Mr. John B. Gillies, came through the test in a manner that

made him the automatic choice as the next “G.M.”

A second “V.C.” came to Clydebank from the S.C.W.S. in 1926, Mr. James Boag

gaining that distinction. Unfortunately, Mr. Boag was unable owing to illness to attend the

presentation and hear the tributes to his “integrity, honesty of purpose, and devotion to the

Movement.”

With the slump period past, sales, membership, and share capital rose steadily, and

within a year the output from the creamery almost trebled.

In six months 805 motor hires were provided, and 5,096 passengers were conveyed

by the Society’s charabancs to various parts of Scotland during the second half of the year.

Members had been slow to avail themselves of the funeral undertaking service

started in 1925, but by the end of 1926 the reluctance was broken down and the business well

established, as well it might be as the entry of the “Co-op.” into the trade had caused a

considerable drop in prices.

SHORT MEMORIES

Early in 1927 we find the chairman, Mr. Alexander Campbell, reproving members

for having “short memories” because, after having been assisted by the Society during the

industrial upheaval of the preceding year, they went outwith the Society for their

requirements. From the statistics, however, it is apparent that there were only a few of those

ungrateful “black sheep.” Average weekly purchases rose by close on 1s. and by the end of

the year a 20 per cent. increase in sales was announced, taking trade beyond the half-million

pounds mark. One innovation that accelerated this progress was the introduction of mutuality

club for drapery, boot, and furnishing articles. Within a month the wisdom of this venture

was proved by the fact that 1,200 members had joined the club. It had also the effect of

cutting expenses I n the drapery warehouse – a problem that had given the management much

worry, and there was a corresponding rise in the dividend from 1s. 3d. to 1s. 7s., which also

stimulated trade. Capital came flowing back for the first time since before the slump, and in

twelve months the amount owing to creditors for goods was reduced from over £30,000 to

less than £7,500. The rate of recovery from the dark times of depression exceeded all

expectations, and with the financial position completely restored there was a better tone and

feeling among the membership than had existed for some years. Clydebank Co-operative

Society had clearly staged a complete “come back,” and great credit is due to all those who

steered it past the hazards that brought others to grief.

Amongst those who fell was the nearby Lennox Society, to whose members

Clydebank generously gave a grant of £50.

One of those whose lived just long enough to see the restoration of the Society’s

balance and its return to prosperity was Mr. Thomas Keenan, one of the pioneers. Mr.

Keenan, whose death in September was deeply regretted, was the Society’s first

representative on the U.C.B.S. board. He was also remembered gratefully as the chief

instigator of the penny bank, one of the most popular and beneficial activities undertaken by

the Co-operative organisation in the town.

Despite the economic trails of the ‘20s the Society remained strictly neutral

politically, and when the Co-operative and Labour Parties reached a working agreement at

Cheltenham Congress and the members were informed at their monthly meeting that the

decision in no way affected the Society. In the chairman’s words: “We have no

entanglements with any shade of political opinion.”

XVI. Fresh Fields

With new suburbs being built all round the fringes of Glasgow and the Clydeside towns,

and the various societies anxious to capture new sources of trade, overlapping disputes

intensified and multiplied, and early in 1928 the Scottish Sectional Board of the Co-operative

Union sought to grapple with the problem. Schemes covering the whole of Scotland were

drawn up, and Clydebank was among the 13 societies included in an amalgamation plan to

cover the area North of the Clyde. But like many other well-laid schemes it went “agley” and

remained just a paper plan. For the better part of the year discussions on the scheme took

place, but there was little real support for it, and the Clydebank co-operators were no more

willing than any of the others to be swallowed up in one huge North-Glasgow unit.

The scheme was not finally killed until 1929. Something did result from the talks,

however, so far as Clydebank was concerned, Blairdardie members deciding to throw in their

lot with the co-operators from the shipbuilding burgh.

Clydebank had many members in the new housing areas at Bankhead,

Knightswood, and Yoker, where houses to accommodate a population of 10,000 had just

been completed. Finding they could not cope with the demands for new services in the

Bankhead area, the Blairdardie Society’s management made overtures for amalgamation.

Like Barkis Clydebank was “willing,” and in November 1928 the scheme for union was

submitted to the members meetings. There were no dissentients at Clydebank, but. Somewhat

surprisingly and largely because of the apathetic attitude of their members, Blairdardie failed

to secure the necessary three-fourths majority. The fact that only 17 voted for amalgamation

and a mere 12 against indicates the lack of interest that prevailed in the village on the issue.

Fusion was so obviously necessary, however, that a few weeks later, following visits to

Blairdardie by representatives of the Clydebank Board, the decision was reversed, and with

effect from March 1929 Blairdardie passed out of Co-operative history.

One of the conditions of union was that the services of all the employees of both

societies, at the date of amalgamation, would be retained. Another clause stated that if so

desired an arrangement would be made whereby a member from Blaridardie district would be

appointed as soon as practicable to serve on the Board of Management of Clydebank Society

for a period of 12 months.

Another outstanding feature of 1928 was the manner in which capital poured into

the Society. Some of it was used to develop services and cater for new housing areas, but the

flood of money was so great that most of it had to be reinvested; £19,000 went to Clydebank

Town Council to aid their large-scale building developments, £10,000 to Dumbartonshire

County Council, and £21,000 to the Co-operative federations.

A comparison with 1926 illustrates the extent of the Society’s “come-back.” Sales

rose during the two years by 38 per cent., average weekly purchases by 50 per cent.,

membership by 8 per cent., and the rate of dividend by 125 per cent. It was an amazing

recovery.

Despite the tremendous improvement in the finances, which had led to economics

such as withdrawal from membership of the Glasgow and District Conference Association,

the Board did not consider the time ripe for renewing membership of that Association despite

persistent approaches.

Disposal of Auchinleck Farm for £4,000 marked the end of the Society’s venture

into farming, while another enterprise – the cinema performances in the Hume Street Hall –

terminated with the withdrawal of the licence.

Innovations during 1928 included the inauguration of a competition amongst

farmers for clean milk tests and butter fat, and the inception of a welfare scheme whereby a

committee of 12 employees worked in conjunction with the Educational Committee to

provide facilities for golf, tennis, bowls and football.

OVERLAPPING

Repercussions in the form of clashes with Anniesland Society followed the

completion of the amalgamation with Blairdardie. Large-scale amalgamation in the area

would have ended the dispute, but neither of the conflicting societies favoured union,

although the Clydebank management indicated that they would not be averse to unions with

the Duntocher and Westerton societies. Both Anniesland and Clydebank staked claims in

Knightswood, and they formed a special joint committee to thrash the matter out. At one of

the meetings the Anniesland president produced a map date 1903 giving all the allocations of

the Glasgow and district societies, but such out-of-date evidence was made during the

protracted discussions.

Building schemes went ahead. Garscadden Road and Parkhall were among the

places chosen for the opening of new premises. Within a few days over 400 customers were

patronising the Garscadden shop, and it was immediately apparent that it would eb

inadequate to meet the demand, and that plans would require to be prepared for a suite of

premises to cope with the new purchasers.

A RICH REWARD

Despite a droop in the arc of employment the speed of the onward march of the

Society was accelerated as the ‘30s began. The foresight and enterprise of the Board of

Management were richly rewarded as the new shops in the various districts came into use. In

the first six months of the year close on a thousand new members joined and enjoyed the

benefits of Co-operation. This was a remarkable tribute to the Society’s efficiency,

particularly in the face of the increase in unemployment in the shipyards – an increase which,

fortunately, was arrested in the closing months of the year with the placing of large

shipbuilding contracts.

XVII. Fifty Glorious Years

Reduced prices and reduced purchasing power caused a slight downward tendency in trade

by the time the Society’s 50th

anniversary was reached. Nevertheless, the organisation was

thriving and in the fine fettle for the celebration of the jubilee, and it was with justifiable

pride in the past and the present that representatives of all the Society’s agencies met on

Wednesday, 20th

May 1931, to observe the occasion.

Memories of the early struggles were revived by Mr. Henry Burton the president,

who narrated to those assembled the story of the rise of the Society. “Looking back over the

50 years we are inclined to ask ourselves if the Society has justified itself as a Co-operative

organisation,” said Mr. Burton, adding, “Honestly we can answer ‘yes.’ It has been of

immense value and benefit to the working people in the district.” Comparative figures for the

1st and 50

th years showed how striking had been the advance:-

1881 1931

Membership - - - 70 14,365

Sales - - - - £3,760 £675,000

Capital - - - - £158 £276,500

Dividend - - - - £177 £44,000

The total trading surplus returned to the members during the 50 years was £1,172,944 –

money which had been a boon to the inhabitants of the burgh during the many dark spells of

idleness and the “dole” they had endured.

One of the pioneers, Mr. Alexander Howie, was able to attend the celebration and

hear the many eloquent tributes paid to him and his courageous early colleagues.

Acknowledging a well-merited presentation of a wallet and Treasury notes, Mr. Howie

declared: “ I have worked for this Society since it started to the best of my ability, and I never

worked for the reward.” To Mr. Howie was also given the honour of proposing the toast of

“Clydebank Co-operative Society.” He told of the many problems that had confronted him

and his fellow committeemen, and he expressed his pride that the small organisation started

50 years previously had grown to become so healthy.

The company was also fortunate in having one of the early employees, Mr. William

Montgomery, general manager, to reply to the toast. Mr. Montgomery declared that in

addition to being successful as a business concern the Society had also achieved the object of

improving the membership mentally and culturally. It took a healthy interest in the every-day

life of the members, and he was justified in asserting that the Co-operative system of business

had inculcated in the people a thrift and independence that they would not otherwise have

shown.

Others taking part in the toast list were Mr. John M. Biggar, whose financial advice

as auditor had proved invaluable; Sir Robert Stewart, president of the S.C.W.S.; Mr. James

Little, secretary; Mr. John M. Davidson, then chairman of the U.C.B.S.; Mr Alexander

Campbell, Clydebank’s representative on the U.C.B.S. board; Provost M’Kenzie; and

Councillor John Taylor.

In addition to this gathering the jubilee was celebrated in other ways. Each member

received a canister filled with one pound of tea as a memento of the occasion, and at a sale in

the drapery warehouse a discount of 1s. 8d. in the £ was given. A special historical

supplement was published by the Scottish Co-operator, and various donations were given,

including £250 to the Co-operative Convalescent Homes and £100 to the Co-operative

Veterans Association.

Two annual bursaries were also presented, these being awarded to the winners of a

competition open to children who had completed a three-years’ course of post-primary

education and whose parents or guardian had been members of the Society for a year.

By those gifts the co-operators of 1931 showed that they had inherited the fine community

spirit that had prompted the pioneers’ efforts to improve the lot of the people.

The jubilee year, alas, ended unhappily. A sequel to the resignation of the second

Labour Government was the slashing of expenditure by their successors. Shipping was one of

the first industries to suffer when the economy axe decended, and it was with justifiable

dismay that they people of Clydeside heard that the intimation that work on the giant

Cunarder, the Queen Mary, was to be stopped completely. It was a stunning blow to the

community, and with thousands again joining the “dole” queues shop sales slumped and the

rise in Co-operative trade was once more arrested.

SILENT SHIPYARDS

The hush that descended over the shipyards with the stoppage of construction

continued throughout 1932. Always ready to adapt their policy to the times the Co-operative

management engaged in price-cutting to aid the many members whose incomes slumped.

Particularly helpful was the reduction in the price of bread decided upon in consultation and

conjunction with the U.C.B.S. and neighbouring societies. The appreciation with which the

public greeted that and cuts in other essential commodities was demonstrated by the

consistent weekly rise in sales and membership. The members’ loyalty, it was state at one

meeting, was “beyond praise.” In addition to price-cutting the mutuality club scheme proved

a boon, while those in extreme distress were relieved by special grants from the Society. No

fewer than 359 members benefited by these grants. The community generally had reason to

be thankful of the existence of the Co-operative Movement, whose policies and deeds had a

beneficial influence in cushioning the crushing effect of poverty.

There was not the same rush to withdraw capital that had taken place in previous

depressions. In fact, to avoid the dangers of over-capitalisation, it was agreed to cease

accepting share capital and to reduce interest.

Important changes in the personnel took place during this difficult year. One of

those arose, unfortunately, through the death of Mr. William Montgomery, the general

manager. His passing was deeply regretted as he had performed valiant service in building up

the organisation. Mr. Montgomery, who had served in the Society for 45 years – all but six of

its existence – was not one who forced himself into the limelight, but his shrewdness and

efficiency had a steadying influence, particularly during the years when he was general

manager. To find a successor the Committee did not have to search far. In the absence during

various illnesses of Mr. Montgomery, Mr. John B. Gillies, the assistant manager, had always

proved an able deputy, and he was given the post of general manager while sharing joint

control with Mr. Robert Mathieson, who had given valuable service as accountant.

Throughout all the difficulties and changes the expansion of the Society continued,

and an important development was the opening of a complete suite of new shops to serve

members in the Boulevard area of Knightswood.

STILL RUSTING

When 1933 dawned the hulk of the Queen Mary was still rusting on the stocks and

the ship cradles in other yards were like animal skeletons.

As if the poverty caused by depression was not enough, the Government sought to

apply another turn to the screw by hitting at the workers’ pockets through the Co-operative

Movement. By accepting the Raeburn Committee proposals for the imposition of additional

taxation on Co-operative societies, the Government created a situation to make every Co-

operative member an Income Tax payer, even if he or she was on the Means Test.

This oppression, however had the effect of making the Clydebank co-operators

revise their opinion regarding participation in politics. They agreed to guarantee a sun “not

exceeding ½ d. per member” to the Co-operative Union for the purpose of providing a fund

for the Income Tax opposition campaign, and also to participate in the formation of a local

vigilance committee consisting of two members from each of the educational organisations,

two employees, and two directors to conduct the campaign in the district. The campaign was

carried through with thoroughness and gusto. The main vigilance committee was divided into

six sub-committees who were allocated districts for canvassing. Postcards of protest were

sent to every household in the community. In conjunction with the 24 other societies in the

area Clydebank decided to send a delegate to a special conference in London to protest

against the proposals and to present a petition to all M.P.s. In support of this action it was

unanimously agreed at the March quarterly meeting to protest against the Raeburn

Committee’s report to the Government, which recommended a tax on Co-operative societies’

reserves and investments. “ We consider,” declared the Clydebank members, “that this is a

violation of the existing law of mutual trading, and we reserve to ourselves the right to take

what action we consider fit to resist this unjust imposition.”

Another progressive step was the decision to rejoin the Glasgow and District

Conference Association. The 10-year break with the “G. and D.” was not healed without

difficulty. Voting resulted in 110 raising their hands in favour of reaffiliation, while 66 were

opposed. The chairman ruled that a two-thirds majority was necessary and that the motion

had therefore failed to carry, but after legal opinion had been taken the chairman admitted

that he had erred, and he declared the proposal carried. So the fold was re-entered.

Although the Society was catering for the distressed, a section of the members

considered that prices could be cut still lower. They propagated that belief so successfully

that there was a large majority in favour of a resolution instructing the Board of Management

“to make full use of the Society’s reserves in order that they may pursue a competitive policy

and reduce prices so that none of our members will have any excuse for buying outside their

own Society.” Further, they urged the Board to take full advantage of that policy to prosecute

an intensive publicity campaign with propaganda meetings and striking poster displays.

Cutting prices, however, was easier said than done. Back in the Boardroom the directors

asked the general manager to investigate the position, and after hearing his statement they

reached the unanimous decision that in view of the small profit margins and the fluctuating

state of the markets “the present low prices in operation in the Society could not be improved

upon.” A promise was given however, that should there be any reduction in wholesale prices

the full advantage would be immediately passed on to the members. That explanation was

accepted.

Incidentally, it was also pointed out at this time that what be purchased for 20s. a

year previously cost only 16s. in 1933.

Despite the hard times and the reduction in the cost of living, the Board decided not

to accept a proposal for a 2 ½ per cent. reduction in the basic rates of employees’ wages. For

that charitable decision they found themselves involved in a prolonged dispute with the Co-

operative Wages Board.

There was also some “family” trouble during the year. Following a series of

disagreements with the president of Knightswood Women’s Guild there was a breakaway by

a section of that guild – a break that, fortunately did not last long.

Throughout those major and minor problems the Society continued to develop, and

an important improvement was effected in the milk service by the installation of modern

creamery plant. When opened eight years previously the creamery had been one of the best in

the country, but in view of many new inventions in connection with pasteurisation of milk the

Board of Management considered the time had arrived for the introduction of up-to-date

machinery. That was done at a cost of £6,000.

Entry into the drysaltery business was another indication that the progressive

tradition was not being lost.

Death of Mr. Robert G. Mathieson in June was a blow, as he had done much in his

capacity as financial manager to build up and preserve the Society’s finances during the lean

years. Mr. Mathieson’s passing led to a reversal of the old arrangement of having an assistant

general manager. For that position the Board again found no need to go outwith the Society,

Mr. William Leitch being appointed, while Mr. J. Morrison was promoted to the position of

cashier and accountant.

XVIII. A Happy Morn

To the joyus skirl of a bagpipe band the gate of Brown’s shipyard opened one bright April

morning in 1934 and thousands of happy men marched through to renew the task of

completing their masterpiece – “Ship No. 534” – now known throughout the world as the

Queen Mary. After two years and four months of neglect the giantess again began to receive

ardent attention from the men of Clydeside, who eagerly moulded her into the beauty she is

to-day. Resumption of work on the “Queen” compensated to some extent for the

disappointment caused by the closing of Beardmore’s marine engine department at Dalmuir,

and there was a marked spurt in trade. Clydebank Society resumed its arrested march towards

the half-million pounds sales mark with a rise in trade for the first half of the year of close on

£25,000 compared with the preceding six months. The trade barometer was set “fair.”

Well-deserved tributes to the part played by the Society in the difficult days was

paid by Provost Smart when he attended a spectacular Co-operative exhibiton held in the

Town Hall towards the end of the year. “There is no doubt, “ declared the Provost, “ that

during the troublesome period the Co-operative Society was a veritable godsend to the people

and that the dividend was the saviour of many families.” The exhibition gave a tremendous

stimulus to the Movement locally and by the end of the year the membership leapt to almost

17,000.

Politically, too, the advance of Clydebank co-operators continued, the formation of

a local branch of the Co-operative Party taking place in February.

The bonds between the Society and the community were further strengthened when

important Town Council contracts were secured, including the provision of groceries, milk,

fish, and bread to the burgh hospital, and the job of painting 300 new council houses.

A new feature was the issue of vouchers for attendance at members’ meetings,

while plans were passed for a sausage factory, a boot repair works, and a receiving depot.

FULL BLOOM

With the population no longer impoverished Co-operation went into full bloom.

Sales soared weekly. Every new shop more than justified itself. Yet, despite their

comparative prosperity, the people did not forget their trials of the earlier ‘30s,and the

political pulse quickened. Far advanced beyond their old attitude of neutrality, Clydebank

sponsored and housed an area conference to intensify the agitation against the continuance of

the taxation imposed upon the Movement under the Finance Act of 1933. A strongly-worded

demand was made to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to withdraw the burden from working-

class institutions such as Co-operative societies. The same conference also protested against

the Government’s policy of introducing Marketing Boards which gave producing interests

complete control over the necessities of life with representation being afforded to consumers.

Attacks were made, too, on the Government for surrendering to the demands of private

enterprise for support through the medium of subsidies while at the same time the family lide

of the nation was being upset by the Means Test and the provision of inadequate scales of

unemployment relief.

In spite of the taxation the Society opened at Dalmuir its fifth suite of new shops in

the course of a few years. One of the largest ventures undertaken, this involved the complete

reconstruction of the property taken over on the transfer of the former Dalmuir Society’s

premises in the Glasgow – Dumbarton road. The suite included accommodation for a new

line – a druggist shop.

In the centre of the town the Society had the distinction of being the first in

Scotland to provide a chiropody service. This pioneering venture, which was later emulated

by others, consisted of the opening of a surgery and consulting rooms as an adjunct to the

footwear department.

During 1935 a superannuation scheme for the employees was introduced. A large-

scale amalgamation scheme with the Anniesland and St. George societies was attempted, but

it came nowhere near securing the necessary three-fourths majority from the Clydebank

members, who turned it down by 67 votes to 57.

ANOTHER CONTRACT

When Clydebank said “farewell” to the completed Queen Mary there were grave

fears that many townspeople would lose their jobs and rejoin the “dole” queues. Great was

the relief and the rejoicing, therefore, when the contract for a giant sister ship, “No. 552,”

later christened the Queen Elizabeth, was placed with Brown’s by the Cunard White Star

Company. It signified continued prosperity for many months. The town and its trade were

“on the crest of the wave.”

It was under those happy circumstances that the burgh’s jubilee was celebrated, and

in those celebrations the Co-operative Society – formed five years before the community

gained the status of “burgh” – played a worthy part. With the members of the Labour Town

Council all Co-operative there was a close bond between the Society and the civic board, and

the two bodies worked together to ensure that the occasion was fittingly observed. In the

jubilee pageant the members of the women’s guilds took a particularly keen interest, and

provided an excellent display that upheld the Movement’s prestige.

In the jubilee brochure, issued as a souvenir of the occasion, the Society published

its achievements, reporting that membership had soared past the 18,000 mark and that annual

sales over £835,000 gave it the right to claim to be the largest trading concern in the district.

It had capital of £390,000, reserves of £60,000, investments of £347,000, including loans of

£103,000 to the burgh, had 92 shops, and covered an area extending six miles.

The main problem of the Board of Management at this time was to cope with the

congestion caused by the rapidly rising membership, and throughout the year they were

almost constantly considering schemes of extension. Important contracts, including the

burgh’s public assistance contract, contributed towards the prosperity.

The Society just missed the very high sales target of £886,000 set under the Co-

operative Union’s Ten Year Plan of development, but the effort had beneficial effects acting

as a spur to future development.

Last of the pioneers, Alexander Howie, passed away in the closing month of the

year, but he had lived to witness the organisation he had nurtured grow to tremendous

strength. This pioneer well merited the tribute: “Well done, good and faithful servant . . .”

RESPONSE TO THE CALL

To detail all the developments that took place in 1937 would almost require a

catalogue. It is doubtful whether any society has ever developed with such rapidity.

Repeatedly the directors heard appeals from all districts and departments for more

accommodation, and they showed no lack of enterprise in responding to the calls. This year

there was no mistake about attaining the Movement’s Ten Year Plan target, the trade quota

being exceeded by no less than £6,000.

Week after week new sales records were established, and any rebuffs were felt as

mere pinpricks. The sharpest jab was experienced when, just as the Society was on the eve of

opening a new chemist shop, the famous dispute with the Proprietary Articles Traders’

Association began. That Association intimated to all Co-operative societies that they would

only supply goods such as proprietory medicines provided an undertaking was given that

dividend would not be paid on the article concerned. That interference with Co-operative

practice and principle was strongly resented, and challenged with no lack of vigour if with no

great success.

During the year an approach was made to the Duntocher and Hardgate Society to

reconsider the old question of amalgamation, but the request was turned down. Equally

inconclusive were talks with St. George Society about development in the Kingsway area. No

agreement was reached, and ultimately Clydebank made a successful application to Glasgow

Corporation for a site, of which, as may be seen, they made excellent use.

HALF MILLION REACHED

The half-million mark in sales was reached for the first time in the Society’s history

during the first half-year of 1938, the exact figure being £501,045, which was particularly

satisfactory as a certain amount of depression descended over the town following the

launching of the Queen Elizabeth. Introduction of trading restrictions and the operation of

marketing schemes also had a braking influence upon trade, but the Society kept marching

on.

In addition to the opening of the handsome suite of premises at Kingsway major

schemes embarked upon were the £11,500 extension at the central warehouse to cope with

the growing boot trade and the installation of new bottling and washing plant at the creamery.

As a memento of the launching of the Queen Elizabeth a commemoration parcel

consisting of S.C.W.S. productions was sold in the grocery branches, while the U.C.B.S.

provided a special cake in honour of the occasion. This proved an excellent publicity scheme,

and by the end of the year the membership had risen by 8002. That remarkable figure might

have been exceeded had fresh attempts to secure union with Anniesland, Duntocher, and

Westerton societies been successful, but the result of these negotiations was “as before.”

Being unable to foretell the evil future the members supported a proposal to

establish a diamond jubilee fund for a celebration in September 1941 – but that is a story for

another chapter.

XIX. War Clouds Burst

Unrest and uncertainty about the international situation had a disturbing effect on the

town’s trade when 1939 opened. New work at Beardmore’s helped the Dalmuir area, but, on

the other hand, many of Singer’s workers were placed on short-time. Nevertheless, the

Society continued its ascent, and for the first time membership rose to and past the 20,000

mark.

Meanwhile the black war clouds continued to gather, and when Nazi-dominated

Germany went the vital step too far by invading Poland the British nation became involved,

on 3rd

September, in another calamitous European conflict that was to inflict great trials upon

the people, and by no means lest of all upon the citizens of Clydebank. The declaration of

war was not accompanied by the same near-panic that characterised the outbreak of battle in

1914. There was a rush on the part of consumers to buy sugar in larger quantities, but the

local Society was well prepared and had the situation under control from the outset so that all

members received equitable treatment.

Preparations were quickly made to meet all possible emergencies – and these

precautions were to stand the organisation in good stead when the time of ordeal arrived. The

basement of the Hume Street premises was passed as suitable for a shelter under the Air Raid

Precautions scheme; accommodation was provided in the hall to the Auxiliary Fire Service;

the Society paid its first contribution of £1,200 to the War Risk Insurance Tax; the shops

were closed at 6pm. (Saturday, 6.30 p.m.); and daylight delivery of milk was arranged. All

the Society’s coal wagons were commandeered and within a month coal rationing

commenced. In preparation for general food rationing 400 women members were addressed

at a special meeting by Mr. J. B. Gillies, general manager, who explained the position. This

appeared to give the members confidence, and when registrations for rationed goods were

placed the Society was in a very favourable position. Indeed, the increase in the grocery trade

following rationing was quite remarkable, indicating the faith of the people in the

Movement’s ability to give them a square deal – a faith that was not misplaced.

FOOD SHIPS SUNK

In the opening months of 1940 – that period of military inactivity known as “the

phoney was,” when the opposing armies contented themselves with sparring instead of

striking – trade was good and supplies satisfactory. Consumers felt the first twists of the

screw of shortage, however, when in May and June the German divisions rolled over the

plains of Holland, Belgium, and France, driving the British armies from Europe and leaving

Britain to carry on the war alone.

Established in coast bases, the submarines began to take heavy toll of the foodships

bound for Britain, and soon some shortages in supplies became evident. Meat became scarce.

To save paper shoppers were asked to carry baskets or shopping bags. Coal was needed to

feed the war machine, and for a time domestic consumers were allowed to order only one bag

at a time.

Along with the commodity shortage scarcity of labour developed. With 39

employees in the Services the Co-operative society was compelled to introduce substitute and

female labour in its shops. At the same time steps were taken to safeguard those who had

been called to the Forces. Reinstatement of all employees joining the Forces or called to

national service was agreed to, and a similar guarantee was extended to conscientious

objectors. It was difficult even to secure boys for milk delivery, and to meet that problem

Clydebank reached a mutual arrangement with Anniesland, St. George, and Westerton

societies.

Still, these difficulties were not regarded as a reason for mere entrenchment. The

Society opened a new boot department and a new mantle salon as additions to the Alexander

Street drapery warehouse. It was reported that the Society had received about 35,000

registrations for sugar and over 27,000 each for butter and bacon under the rationing scheme,

and those figures rose steadily with each succeeding re-registration period. In October the

Board were faced with the problem of the Purchase Tax, and they decided to pay dividend on

the gross price, inclusive of the Tax, a policy in keeping with that prevalent throughout the

Movement and with general Co-operative principles.

Arrangements for fire-watching at the Society’s premises were made, and the Board

placed their fleet of cars at the disposal of the police for use in the event of air raid

emergencies. While the German bombers had begun to hammer London and other Southern

cities and towns, they had practically ignored Scotland, and apart from a few fleeting visits to

the vicinity had not disturbed the community of Clydebank. However, that immunity,

unfortunately, was not to continue.

DEVASTATION

At 9.12 p.m. on Thursday, 13th

March 1941, the air-raid sirens wailed their warning

to the people of Clydebank that raiders were approaching the area. No-one felt unduly

alarmed, as such warnings were fairly regular and had brought no dangers since 19th

July of

the previous year, when a lone raider dropped a bomb on a Yoker tenement, killing three

people and injuring eighteen others. The 13th

, alas, was to prove an unlucky night. It was

Scotland’s first experience of a full-scale terror blitz and Clydebank was to pay for its fame

as a shipbuilding and munitions centre. As the first formation of bombers flew over the town

their incendiaries, or fire bombs, fell on two highly imflammable places on either side of the

burgh, the distillery at Yoker and Singer’s timber yard, and the leaping flames from those

points provided the succeeding waves of raiders with easy targets.

The writer of this history spent that night of fire and blast in the Co-operative Hall,

Hume Street, where a concert by the U.C.B.S. Party was rudely interrupted, and the scene

there was described in the following passage written at the time for the Scottish Co-operator:-

A tremendous roar shook the building and shattered every pane of glass in

the hall. There were hysterical shouts from women and children. The blackout

curtains waved as the wind swept through the glassless windows. “Out with the

lights,” came the order, promptly obeyed, for a light was a target for the raiders.

Even in the gloom a few of the entertainers continued to strum and sing at the

piano. But most of us crowed into the darkened ante-rooms and corridors beneath

the platform and waited . . . Twice we felt the concussion from exploding bombs.

Soldier appeared and took charge. Ultimately we were shepherded downstairs to the

hall basement, glimpsing on the way the moonlit, firelit, flare-lit sky and hearing

the ominous overhead drone. We stood in groups in the crowded cellar, hoping in

each interval between the series of explosions that they had gone . . .

One by one, as the hands of the clock crawled round, we sought rest on the

floor, using old (I hope, for they were scrap by morning) ledgers and cashbooks as

cushions. As watches showed 1 a.m. the 300 of us resigned ourselves to a night of it

and sought rest. The cellar was a conglomeration of legs, arms and heads, weary

and listless – until a sudden starling roar and a violent quiver convinced us that the

building was about to tumble upon us. Up leapt everyone in alarm. I never saw a

crowd jump with such precision. Then, as the walls stood intact and the noise died

away we lapsed back to our uncomfortable positions on the floor and dozed, only to

be roused to our feet soon afterwards by another “near miss” rocking the building.

Between each wave of raiders and bang of guns and bombs there was a silence

of about 10 minutes, during which we always listened hopefully for the shrieking,

sustained note of the “all clear” – only to have our hopes dashed by another boom

or thud. The long-desired wail liberating us from our cellar came sounding only

after we had crouched there for over eight of the most unpleasant hours of our lives.

What a different Clydebank met our eyes. It was still between dawn and

daylight. The semi-dark sky was illuminated by the dull red glow of fires. Orange

flames shot from burning buildings. Every window had been blown to pieces, and

the streets were littered with smashed glass and broken telegraph and tram wires.

Some tenements were shells; on a few of the last embers of fires were flickering;

while others were just heaps of rubble.

MORE SAVAGERY

Those nine hours of terror transformed Clydebank into a town of death and

desolation. That was only the first instalment of the savagery. Fires were still burning when

the Luftwaffe returned the following night to renew the attack, when the “all-clear” sounded

the morning of 15th

March the town was terrible to behold. Only 12 buildings escaped

damage, 46,000 houses were damaged, and 4,300 completely destroyed, 534 people were

killed, and 1,088 injured in Clydebank alone. (The respective figures for the Clydeside area

were 1,100 and 1,600.)

In such saturation bombing the Co-operative Society suffered severely. About one-

third of the Society’s premises were rendered useless. Many were irreparably damaged, and

some were reduced to heaps of rubble. At a hurriedly-summoned meeting of the Board the

manager reported the loss of 38 shops, including 12 grocery branches, but he was also able to

intimate that 55 branches were open for business – a tribute to the employees, three of whom

lost their lives in the raids. Despite the tremendous dislocation the Society’s services never

ceased. Within two hours of the “all-clear” following the initial attack the homeless in the

relief food centres were supplied. Coal, milk, and bread were sold from lorries, and on the

Sunday the food shops were kept open, services for which the Society was warmly thanked

by the harassed Ministry of Food officials.

Only a few of the wartime population of 55,000 remained in the town after the

second raid. Fears of a rush to withdraw capital were not realised, and a decision to restrict

withdrawals to £5 was quickly reversed in favour of the regular practice when it was seen that

no panic existed.

Loss of members was a bigger problem, but the co-operators of Scotland showed

that while they might wrangle among themselves over details they could rise to the occasion

and show the real spirit of the Movement in time of trouble. At the instigation of the Dalziel

and Wishaw societies a meeting was held, at which a scheme to help Clydebank and other

blitz-stricken societies was devised. They agreed to allow evacuated Clydebank members to

trade under their own membership number and to pay dividend on purchases at the rate

prevailing in the society in which the member traded. In this way continuity of Co-operative

membership was preserved, and a 10 per cent. discount on purchases was allowed to the

Clydebank Society.

Some remarkable reconstruction feats were performed even with days of the orgy of

destruction. One blast-damaged fish shop was made serviceable within three days. In ruined

Radnor Park only a backshop remained intact, but rapidly and ingeniously by the use of old

fittings and salvaged doors it was converted into a grocery and fleshing department. In the

same area a three-storey block belonging to the Society was condemned for demolition, but

following the intervention of the S.C.W.S. building department that order was cancelled and

the houses were ultimately reoccupied. Other shops in the same suite, however, were

smashed beyond recognition. Likewise, all that remained of four shops in Second Avenue,

Radnor Park, were a barred window and a potato bunker! At Parkhall all that was left of three

shops were parts of walls; even from those there was reconstructed a shop with a corrugated

iron roof and plaster board ceiling and walls. Beyond the builders’ aid were the large

premises of the old Dalmuir Society, but other shops were taken over and the service in this

badly damaged district never stopped.

Besides property much money was lost, many notes being burned and much copper

and silver being melted. This was found in the score or so of battered burned safes retrieved

from destroyed buildings. One safe was so hot, a month after the blitz, that it had to be pulled

out of the debris with chains, while another was warm even three months later!

A wise precaution against the destruction of the members’ accounts had been taken

by the cashier and accountant, Mr. Morrison, who throughout the war carried in his

possession a small tube containing a film record of each account. Each tiny photograph

included approximately seven hundred figures, and if the ledgers in the Hume Street office

had been destroyed exact copies would have been available.

Educational work was abruptly stopped by the blitz, but the members of the

women’s guild saw to it that the interruption was not prolonged. No halls were available, so

the guildwomen decided to continue their activities by meeting in small groups in each

other’s houses. That was a typical example of the spirit in which the people generally tackled

the problems arising from the devastation of their town.

STRENGTH UNIMPAIRED

Neither the strength nor the spirit was knocked out of the Society by the bombers’

blows. At the first general meeting after the raids it was announced by the auditor, Mr. J. M.

Biggar, that the widespread damage to property had not impaired the Society’s stability, and

that reserves were much more than the nominal value of the property. So much for the

organisation’s strength. At the same meeting the members showed that their spirit was also

unimpaired by rejecting a proposal by the directors that members’ meeting be suspended, and

that the Board remain as constituted and take full powers to control the Society until the end

of the period of emergency. Also defeated was a suggestion that the monthly meetings be

held on Saturday afternoons from October till March.

In May the Society attained its 60th

anniversary. It had been intended to celebrate

the occasion, but even before the blitz the idea had been abandoned, and the decision to

disburse the diamond jubilee fund, amounting to £2,800, by paying a bonus of 4d. was most

popular. Specially welcome was the money to the many members who suffered heavy loses

in the air raids.

Once again, on 5th

May, the windows of several branches were blasted in an air raid

which, however, was not nearly so severe as the March bombings.

Arising from the blitz was a new service – a canteen in the Hume Street Hall, which

still remains a popular service. The opening of the canteen was prompted by a deputation

from the shop stewards at Brown’s shipyard, who requested facilities for the workmen. The

U.C.B.S. agreed to undertake the catering, a licence was granted on condition that the canteen

would be available to industrial workers only, kitchen facilities were installed, and since then

the number of daily dinners has risen to as high as 750.

XX. Reconstruction

A “remarkable recovery” was reported at the first monthly meeting of 1942, and with the

town left alone by the bombers, similar reports regarding the Society were made throughout

the year, which, compared with its predecessor, was uneventful. Redevelopment work

included the reopening of shops at North Kilbowie and Parkhall, where thousands of

townspeople resumed residence. The trade and memberships graphs soared once more after

the sudden plunge precipitated by the air-raids. Recovery continued despite a tightening in

the food supply position and the introduction of a pool system for retail distribution which

curtailed transport deliveries.

Social and educational activity also revived, and on 24th

April the first Clydebank

Co-operative Youth Club was opened.

Always mindful of those away on Service, the members decided to pay weekly

allowances to all employees with the Forces, married men and those with dependents

receiving 10s. and single men 5s. Their consideration for others was also shown by the

institution of share numbers in the names of China and Russia, the proceeds from dividend

being allocated to the Movement’s funds for the relief of war victims. Later, a similar scheme

was adopted for the aid of returned soldiers.

NEW MANAGER

Important changes in the personnel of the management of the Society were made in

March 1943, when Mr. J. B. Gillies broke 45 years’ continuous service by retiring from the

position of general manager. During Mr. Gillies’s period of service membership rose from

1,437 to over 22,000, sales from £67,000 to £972,000 per year, share capital from £23,000 to

£684,000, and the number of grocery branches from 2 to 26. For a successor to Mr. Gillies

the Board found no need to search outwith Clydebank, the assistant general manager, Mr.

William Leitch, being unanimously appointed to the chief executive post. (Mr. Leitch,

incidentally, was the employee with the longest service in the Society, which he joined as an

apprentice in 1903.) Mr. Hugh Allan, who had been manager of the former Blairdardie

Society at the same time of its amalgamation with Clydebank, became the assistant manager.

With those appointments from the Society’s own staff continuity of policy and the Society’s

traditional progressive outlook were preserved. The work of rebuilding continued and soon

sales rose again to the half-million pounds mark from which they had been tumbled by the

“blitz.” It was a remarkable come-back. Few had considered such a revival possible, and the

fact that it was accomplished reflected highly upon the goodwill and faith of the members

and the hard work of the employees and management.

ROCHDALE CENTENARY

Celebration of the 100th

anniversary of Co-operation under the Rochdale principles

was the outstanding feature of the Movement’s history during 1944, and Clydebank Society

took a prominent part in the pageant held in St. Andrew’s Halls, Glasgow, during July. With

Anniesland, Clydebank staged the second of the eight episodes depicting Co-operative

progress throughout the years. That episode illustrated the conditions of the working people

of Scotland in pre-Rochdale years, before 1800, when they were suffering from the effects fo

the American Rebellions, the French Revolution, and the introduction of mechanisation in the

textile industry. One of the scenes enacted by the Clydebank-Anniesland players dealt with

the problems of the Fenwick Weavers, who founded Britain’s first co-operative society in the

year 1769. The Clydebank players considered it a great honour to depict such a memorable

episode in the history of the British working class, the birth of the Movement which has done

more than any other to release the people from economic bondage and which now envelopes

the world.

The players in that episode were Messrs. W. Barron, D. Caldwell, R. Jones, W.

Neish, I. Bain, and A. Duncan; Mesdames Hyslop and E. Bowie; and Mary M’Crae, Winnie

Green, Rita M’Kee, Isobel Fryer, Daive M’Nicol, David Turnbull, N. Irvine, N. Bourie, J.

Hamilton, H. Draper, C. Lindsay, R. Mills, I. O’Halleran, D. Bell, R. Hamilton, S. Gilchrist,

F. O’Halleran, C M’Crae, G. M’Lachlan, C. Forbes, I. Forbes, A. Docherty, V.Moore, A.

Moore, and C. Warrilow.

Apart from the joint celebration with the other societies in the Glasgow area,

Clydebank observed the centenary with gatherings of its own. In August all those with 50

years’ membership, including those who had been members of the Dalmuir, Radnor Park, and

Blairdardie societies, were entertained and presented with £1 apiece. Those qualifying for

that honour numbered 109. Joining in this celebration were Mr. David Kirkwood, M.P., Mr.

Neil S. Beaton (president, S.C.W.S.), and Provost D. Low, who referred to the close co-

operation between the Society and the Corporation and their efforts to rebuild the burgh, its

trade and services.

Twenty-nine superannuated employees and 76 employees with more than 25 years’

service were entertained and presented with gifts. Each was thanked individually for service

to the Society by Councillor Thomas Davidson (the president), who complimented specially

those who worked during the “blitz” period and he forecast that as a result of their fortitude

Clydebank would “regain its glory.”

A third gathering was that of past and present directors. Five former presidents,

Messers. Maxwell, Nicholson, Burton, Campbell, and M’Clune, were present at the function.

Some of the strain of wartime conditions was lifted following the successful

invasion of France in June by the Allied Armies, and in September the members met for the

first time for five years free from “blackout” conditions. At that meeting optimism was

expressed about the end of the war, and in preparation for that happy day the directors

indicated plans for reconstruction and expansion.

It was intimated that since the start of the war the Society had deposited the total

sum of £230,000 in Government stocks as its contribution to the various savings campaigns.

POST-WAR PLANS

By the time the Allied troops overran Germany and brought the war to a close on 8th

May 1945, the post-war plans of the Clydebank co-operators were well under way, and the

records are almost a catalogue listing the acquisition of new properties and the opening of

additional shops. Ground for premises to serve new housing estates was acquired at the

Boulevard, Milton Mains, Milton Douglas, Dalmuir West, Whitecrook and Second Avenue;

and the Clydebank Pavilion building was bought with a view to future development in the

centre of the town.

Mr. Thomas Davidson, who became the first chairman of the Society to be elected

Provost of Clydebank, was able to announce at the half-yearly meeting that all the trade lost

during the “blitz” of 1941 had been recovered and that, in fact, a new sales peak had been

reached. Trade for the six months was over £656,000, an increase of £57,000 compared with

the corresponding period of the previous year.

One sad reflection on the conclusion of the war was that eight of the employees had

died while serving with the armed Forces. Those young men who bravely gave their lives so

that the Co-operative and other democratic movements might continue were: -

NORMAN ALLARDICE ALEXANDER M’CALLUM

JAMES CLELLAND THOMAS MARSHALL

WILLIAM DUNSMORE ANGUS STEWART

ALEXANDER MACKAY THOMAS WILLIAMS

The election of a Labour Government with a strong majority have hope to the

workers of Clydebank that they would be protected from the periodic depressions that had

assailed them in the past. The sudden termination by the United States of America of the

lease-lend agreement was a less happy happening, however, and the food supply position

again tightened. The faith of the people in the fairness of the Co-operative Movement in

allocating available supplies was reflected in the large increase in the number of registrations

(about 15,000) placed with the Clydebank Society.

With the war over there was a revival in educational activity. A youth organiser, the

first in the Society’s history, was appointed, and the junior choir was re-formed.

XXI. Things To Come

Prosperity seemed assured of a long run in Clydebank when 1946 opened. The shipbuilding

firms had orders in their books that guaranteed full employment in the yards for four or five

years, and the prospect was equally bright at Singers and other factories in the burgh.

Progress was being made in new housing schemes, and families who had been compelled to

vacate the town during the 1941 catastrophe were returning at the rate of 30 a month. Almost

as fast as they opened one new shop the management of the Society found themselves

confronted with fresh demands for further accommodation and additional services to cope

with the swelling sales. Although kept busy catering for immediate needs the directors found

time to prepare for the future, and with “things to come” in mind they spent £25,000 on the

acquisition of two excellent sites at Anniesland Cross. This was the culmination of amicable

negotiations with the Anniesland Society regarding services in the Knightswood area.

Talks also took place with Duntocher and Hardgate Society, and these led to the

preparation of an amalgamation scheme. Provision was made for two of the “D. & H.” board

members to sit for 12 months on the directorate of the proposed amalgamated organisation,

and a guarantee of two years’ employment was given to all permanent employees. Clydebank

members gave unanimous assent to the scheme, but it failed to win the approval of the

smaller society.

NEW COLONIES

Throughout the next 12 months the post-war plan of reconstruction and expansion

took further shape, and the reports presented at the monthly meetings were similar in pattern,

telling of reopened shops, newly-acquired properties, and new services. With the town’s

industrial machine in top gear and new housing colonies springing up to replace the bomb-

damaged buildings in the centre of the burgh excellent opportunities for business

development were offered, and the co-operators in the community showed their traditional

enterprise and courage in pursuing and capturing new trade. Even the problems arising from

the exceptional winter blizzards and coal supply shortage, which caused many industries to

cease operations, did not stop the Society’s advance.

To counter another difficulty during the year, a heavy increase in the tax on

tobacco, an important departure was made from the ordinary Co-operative practice by the

decision to cease payment of dividend on sales of cigarettes and tobacco.

Towards the close of 1947 negotiations for amalgamation of the Anniesland and

Clydebank societies reached a climax with the presentation of a scheme to the respective

memberships. At Clydebank a five-to-one majority favoured the fusion, but at Anniesland the

proposal, although receiving 233 votes to 116, did not get the necessary majority. That rebuff

was not accepted meekly, and almost immediately the two boards of management reopened

negotiations and sought to find a scheme to meet all objections to union. A feature of the new

scheme was a guarantee of five years’ employment to all employees. In the 11 months that

elapsed between the two amalgamation attempts more members became favourable towards

fusion. Unfortunately, the pendulum did not swing quite far enough. Clydebank members

were unanimous, but Anniesland members failed by 11 votes to give the resolution the

required three-fourths majority. Thus were months of patient negotiation rendered fruitless.

Like all their predecessors right back to the pioneers the directors of to-day have

had their disappointments, such as the Anniesland episode, but, also like those who have

gone before, they are having triumphs far greater than any temporary setbacks. They are

undertaking a rebuilding and development programme such as has never before been tackled

by any society in Scotland. Many outstanding achievements stand to the credit of those who

presently guide the Society. The Educational Committee, whose activities were rudely

interrupted by the 1941 air raids, has been reformed with such success that the Society now

numbers among its auxiliary agencies eleven branches of the Women’s Guild with over 1,500

members, bowling clubs, dramatic groups, choirs, and a youth club; while the children are

being encouraged to take an interest in the Movement by means of an essay competition with

a holiday at one of the Co-operative Union youth centres as a prize. Introduction of a hire-

purchase scheme and a system for speeding-up milk delivery by a direct creamery-to-

consumer service have proved popular. Equally acceptable to the members was the opening

of a self-service grocery store (in the new Whitecrook suite of shops) aimed at accelerating

service and abolishing queues. Clydebank was one of the first societies in Scotland to adopt

that modern method of trading, and the venture was so successful that its extension was a

matter for immediate consideration by the management. As this book closes the Society has

on hand schemes costing close on £500,000 so that the citizens of the town of ships and

sewing machines may have a Co-operative service second to none in the land. Si

monumentum requiris, circumspice (If you seek his monument, look around). That inscription

on the tomb of Sir Christopher Wren in St. Pauls Cathedral, one of the great architect’s

masterpieces, might well be adapted and applied as a tribute to those who down the years

have built that noble structure, the Clydebank Co-operative Society, which has done so much

to ensure economic justice for the people, eased their burden when poverty oppressed, and

provided many of the higher joys of life.

XXI. Things To Come

Prosperity seemed assured of a long run in Clydebank when 1946 opened. The shipbuilding

firms had orders in their books that guaranteed full employment in the yards for four or five

years, and the prospect was equally bright at Singers and other factories in the burgh.

Progress was being made in new housing schemes, and families who had been compelled to

vacate the town during the 1941 catastrophe were returning at the rate of 30 a month. Almost

as fast as they opened one new shop the management of the Society found themselves

confronted with fresh demands for further accommodation and additional services to cope

with the swelling sales. Although kept busy catering for immediate needs the directors found

time to prepare for the future, and with “things to come” in mind they spent £25,000 on the

acquisition of two excellent sites at Anniesland Cross. This was the culmination of amicable

negotiations with the Anniesland Society regarding services in the Knightswood area.

Talks also took place with Duntocher and Hardgate Society, and these led to the

preparation of an amalgamation scheme. Provision was made for two of the “D. & H.” board

members to sit for 12 months on the directorate of the proposed amalgamated organisation,

and a guarantee of two years’ employment was given to all permanent employees. Clydebank

members gave unanimous assent to the scheme, but it failed to win the approval of the

smaller society.

NEW COLONIES

Throughout the next 12 months the post-war plan of reconstruction and expansion

took further shape, and the reports presented at the monthly meetings were similar in pattern,

telling of reopened shops, newly acquired properties, and new services. With the town’s

industrial machine in top gear and new housing colonies springing up to replace the bomb-

damaged buildings in the centre of the burgh excellent opportunities for business

development were offered, and the co-operators in the community showed their traditional

enterprise and courage in pursuing and capturing new trade. Even the problems arising from

the exceptional winter blizzards and coal supply shortage, which caused many industries to

cease operations, did not stop the Society’s advance.

To counter another difficulty during the year, a heavy increase in the tax on

tobacco, an important departure was made from the ordinary Co-operative practice by the

decision to cease payment of dividend on sales of cigarettes and tobacco.

Towards the close of 1947 negotiations for amalgamation of the Anniesland and

Clydebank societies reached a climax with the presentation of a scheme to the respective

memberships. At Clydebank a five-to-one majority favoured the fusion, but at Anniesland the

proposal, although receiving 233 votes to 116, did not get the necessary majority. That rebuff

was not accepted meekly, and almost immediately the two boards of management reopened

negotiations and sought to find a scheme to meet all objections to union. A feature of the new

scheme was a guarantee of five years’ employment to all employees. In the 11 months that

elapsed between the two amalgamation attempts more members became favourable towards

fusion. Unfortunately, the pendulum did not swing quite far enough. Clydebank members

were unanimous, but Anniesland members failed by 11 votes to give the resolution the

required three-fourths majority. Thus were months of patient negotiation rendered fruitless.

Like all their predecessors right back to the pioneers the directors of to-day have

had their disappointments, such as the Anniesland episode, but, also like those who have

gone before, they are having triumphs far greater than any temporary setbacks. They are

undertaking a rebuilding and development programme such as has never before been tackled

by any society in Scotland. Many outstanding achievements stand to the credit of those who

presently guide the Society. The Educational Committee, whose activities were rudely

interrupted by the 1941 air raids, has been reformed with such success that the Society now

numbers among its auxiliary agencies eleven branches of the Women’s Guild with over 1,500

members, bowling clubs, dramatic groups, choirs, and a youth club; while the children are

being encouraged to take an interest in the Movement by means of an essay competition with

a holiday at one of the Co-operative Union youth centres as a prize. Introduction of a hire-

purchase scheme and a system for speeding-up milk delivery by a direct creamery-to-

consumer service have proved popular. Equally acceptable to the members was the opening

of a self-service grocery store (in the new Whitecrook suite of shops) aimed at accelerating

service and abolishing queues. Clydebank was one of the first societies in Scotland to adopt

that modern method of trading, and the venture was so successful that its extension was a

matter for immediate consideration by the management. As this book closes the Society has

on hand schemes costing close on £500,000 so that the citizens of the town of ships and

sewing machines may have a Co-operative service second to none in the land. Si

monumentum requiris, circumspice (If you seek his monument, look around). That inscription

on the tomb of Sir Christopher Wren in St. Paul’s Cathedral, one of the great architect’s

masterpieces, might well be adapted and applied as a tribute to those who down the years

have built that noble structure, the Clydebank Co-operative Society, which has done so much

to ensure economic justice for the people, eased their burden when poverty oppressed, and

provided many of the higher joys of life.

Epilogue

Anyone privileged to write an epilogue is rather fortunate, and the opportunity of

epitomising the history of Clydebank Society is a high honour of which I am extremely

proud.

The ideals of the Rochdale Pioneers are crystallised throughout the chapters of the

book; the hopes and ambitions of the early stalwarts are clearly portrayed, and the expansion

and development of our Society – an achievement which one can only wonder at – is later

described.

With the world drifting slowly to a planned democracy the Co-operative Movement

assumes an importance in world affairs scarcely thought of a decade ago. In Britain, where

the working-class movement is asserting itself and displaying to the world that it is fit to

govern, a place must be found for a Movement whose ideals are so high and whose capacity

to distribute the product of the worker cannot be disputed. In that place Clydebank Society

must play its full part and be prepared to sacrifice local autonomy if necessary and become a

strong link of the chain of Co-operation.

With that glorious history behind us we who are members of Clydebank Society

must and will take our full share.

MURRAY D. BROWN

President

Presidents

R. LIVINGSTON - - - - 1881-83

W. THOMSON - - - - 1883

A. HOWIE - - - - - 1883-89

J. S. KERR - - - - - 1889-90

J. HEMPSEED - - - - 1890-91

R. ARNOTT - - - - - 1891-94

R. B. CORNOCK - - - - 1894-95

D. GILMOUR - - - - - 1895-98

J. BOAG - - - - - 1898-1903

J. BURNS - - - - - 1903-06

G. IRVINE - - - - - 1906-08

S. MAXWELL - - - - 1908-12

J. BOAG - - - - - 1912-15

J. NICHOLSON - - - - 1915-18

J. J. M’WILLIAM - - - - 1918-21

R. G. YATES - - - - 1921-24

J. BOAG - - - - - 1924-26

A. CAMPBELL - - - - 1926-29

H. BURTON - - - - - 1929-32

J. SMITH - - - - - 1932-35

T. DAVIDSON - - - - 1935-38

H. BRUNTON - - - - - 1938-41

C. M’CLUNE - - - - - 1941-44

T. DAVIDSON - - - - 1944-47

M. D. BROWN - - - - 1947

General Managers

W. MONTGOMERY - - - - 1898-1932

J. B. GILLIES - - - - - 1932-43

W. LEITCH - - - - - 1943

How The Society Has Grown

Reserve

Year Members Sales Capital Dividend Fund

£ £ £ £

1881-82 - 70 3,760 157 177 Nil

1886 - 185 6,319 2,236 730 48

1891 - 560 22,289 7,810 2,672 138

1896 - 1,200 59,633 21,622 7,243 589

1901 - 2,038 98,427 40,422 10,870 782

1906 - 3,871 175,705 72,544 23,061 1,835

1911 - 5,676 245,177 95,679 26,425 5,263

1916 - 8,523 549,971 202,577 61,445 10,000

1921 - 10,853 893,593 251,940 55,322 28,009

1926 - 11,278 467,705 162,519 22,060 21,997

1931 - 14,601 645,496 283,186 75,243 34,295

1936 - 18,330 863,058 406,095 100,364 49,936

1941 - 21,667 1,038,470 608,741 148,247 72,108

1942 - 21,925 971,628 684,096 106,841 76,679

1946 - 24,236 1,464,728 1,059,038 193,834 99,183

1947 - 25,021 1,634,659 1,130,314 230,606 104,599