Park family. (July 2017)

INTRODUCTION

In 1877 John Scott (1853-1921), at that time living at Drums, Erskine with his grandfather Hector Martin, married Mary Park (1852-1931) of Hatton Farm. (See Scott: the story so far). One of their three grandchildren was my mother Mary Park Scott (1912-1977). However, it is interesting that John and Mary shared common ancestors from the marriage of Peter Scott (1747-1806) and Mary Brock (1751-1831). Peter was a farmer at Greenland Farm, Dunbartonshire. Of their nine girls and two boys, all survived to lead full lives. Janet Scott (1776-1857), the fifth child, married John Scott (1774-1858) a ship-owner and this branch was predominately involved in shipping. Their tenth child, Walter Scott (1786-1858) married Janet Donald (1795-1874) in 1819 and continued the farming line. They in turn had nine children one of whom, Walter, died at age 10, but all the rest survived and had heirs. Their first daughter Anne Scott (1821-1899) married Robert Park (1817-1870) who was a farmer at High Hatton and it is this line of Park that this page will explore; a family touched with great success and sadness in equal measure and a very interesting history.

My grandfather, Peter Martin Scott, maintained a fondness for Hatton and the Park family as he named my mother Mary Park Scott and his new home in Whitecraigs was named Hatton Lodge. This photo is of him with Robert Park and his son Walter Scott Park at Hatton taken in 1955. His niece, Jean Scott (Noble) painted a watercolour of Hatton Farm.

Robert Park’s father, also Robert (1782-1850), was born in Cambusnethan, Lanarkshire and married Catherine Cleland (1786-1859) in 1808. Possibly about 1824 they moved to Glenshinnoch Farm in Erskine. They had six children born in Cambusnethan and a further three born at Glenshinnoch Farm: three sons and six daughters (three children, called Ann, all died in infancy). The three sons all farmed and each of the surviving daughters married farmers.

I William Park (1809-1875) Born in Cambushethan

II Jean Park (1810-1900) Born in Cambushethan

III Catherine Park (1813-1886) Born in Cambushethan

IV Robert Park (1817-1870) Born in Cambushethan

V Ann Park (1821-1825) Born in Cambushethan

VI John Park (1823-1897) Born in Cambushethan

VII Ann Park (1825-1825) Born in Glenshinnoch, Erskine

VIII Ann Park (1826-1826) Born in Glenshinnoch, Erskine

IX Helen Park (1830-1913) Born in Glenshinnoch, Erskine

There is an interesting advertisement in the Caledonian Mercury of Monday August 3, 1818 for farms to let which mentions several connected with the Parks in later years. It describes the farms in some detail.

Select here to view a family chart for Robert Park and Catherine Cleland.

Robert Park began a “dynasty” of well-regarded Clydesdale horse breeders and successful farmers, all three sons and their sons are frequently mentioned in newspaper articles of the times and in the Clydesdale stud books. The pedigrees are still referred to in horse sales.

“Stud year book: Jess, by Sovereign, foaled 1839; bred by and property of Robert Park, West Glenshinnoch, Renfrewshire; winner of second prize at the Highland and Agricultural Society’s Show at Glasgow in 1844, and travelled the western district of Dumbartonshire.”

Robert was also caught up in the political issues of the day:

The Glasgow Herald Friday April 19, 1844.

[Robert Park, Farmer, Glenshinnoch is a signatory to:]

Paisley 11 April 1844

We, the undersigned, request the attendance at a MEETING to be held in the Town Hall, Renfrew, on Thursday, 25th current, at One o’ Clock p.m. of all willing to concur in adopting measures calculated to defeat the machinations of the ANTI-CORN LAW LEAGUE and to maintain for the AGRICULTURAL INTEREST that due share of Protection which it has hitherto enjoyed, and to which it is entitled, in common with other branches of National Commerce and Industry.

Glasgow

Eglinton and Winton

Blantyre

[others in this family tree are mentioned as signatories:]

Alexander Arneil, Farmer, Longhough, Erskine

Robert Lochhead, Farmer, [East] Glenshinnoch

Robert Park, Farmer, Hatton

The Rev James Smith, Cathcart [Sweet family tree, Alexander Sweet’s friend, Smith became Moderator of the Kirk]

Robert and Catherine farmed at Glenshinnoch until about 1850 when they moved to a smaller farm of 14 acres, Puddockrigg, which is where Robert died on 10 June 1850.

There is an interesting reference to East Glenshinnoch in the planning application for Bishopton Ordnance Factory site:

Description: The names ‘Nether Glennis’, ‘Glens’ and Inchinnoch’ appear on historical maps from the mid-1600s onwards and probably represent earlier versions of the name Glenshinnoch.

This particular farmstead is shown as Low Inchinnoch’ on Ainslie’s 1796 map. It was depicted as a three-building complex. It appears to have remained largely unchanged until the advent of the Royal Ordnance factory when it was removed. The farm was taken over in 1937 to enable an extension to the armaments factory.

It is interesting that in 1855, after Robert’s death, Catherine had the births of all the children (including those who had died in infancy) registered in Erskine. This is when statutory registration of births was enacted but it was not retrospective so her purpose is obscure.

Old Parish Register of Births

Robert Park Farmer Glenshinnoch (Deceased) and Catherine Cleland his spouse had the following lawful children

William, born at Cambusnethan 17th February, 1809 and baptised

Jane, born at Cambusnethan 6th March, 1810 and baptised

Catherine, born at Cambusnethan 23rd March, 1813 and baptised

Robert, born at Cambusnethan 20th Feb, 1817 and baptised

Ann, born at Cambusnethan 31st Dec, 1821 and baptised

John, born at Cambusnethan 18th Aug, 1823 and baptised

Ann, born at Glenshinoch, Erskine 5th June, 1825 and baptised

Ann, born at Glenshinoch, Erskine 27th Nov, 1826 and baptised

Helen, born at Glenshinoch, Erskine 8th Jan, 1830 and baptised

 Registered at Erskine 31st December 1855 on written evidence produced by and in the presence of the foresaid Mrs Catherine Cleland or Park subscribing hereto. Signed : Catherine Park and J Balfour Robertson, Registrar.

 Catherine carried on farming at Puddockrigg having taken in her daughter, Catherine Arneil, and her two children: see below at (III). Robert’s widow, Catherine, died on the same date as Robert, 9 years later in 1859.

 Robert and Catherine’s first son William Park (1809-1875) (I) farmed at Balquahanran Farm (also known as Chapelyard Farm). He married Elizabeth McNeil (1817-1890) and they had two sons and three daughters.

I .A Robert Park (1839-) born in Old Kilpatrick

I .B James Park (1840-1896) born in Old Kilpatrick

I .C William Park (1842-1906) born in Erskine

I .D Mary Park (1844-) born in Old Kilpatrick

I .E Catherine Park (1849-1859) born in Old Kilpatrick

There is an interesting newspaper article marking William’s retirement from farming in 1875.

Their first son, Robert (1839-) (I.A) became Estate factor at Fourmerkland House, Applegarth, Dumfries.

http://www.castleduncan.com/forum/index.php?/topic/40-fourmerkland-tower-dumfries-galloway/

He and his wife, Martha Hay (1841-) had three children:

Mary H Park (1867-) born in Erskine

William Park (1869-) born in Erskine

Elizabeth McNeil Park (1875-) born in Kilmarnock

Robert and Catherine’s second son James Park (1840-1896) (I.B) farmed at Dechmont Farm, Cambuslang and he and his wife, Annabella Hamilton Morton (1841-bef 1896) had four sons and three daughters. James, like so many of the Parks, was well regarded for his Clydesdale breeding abilities. He would appear to be held in high regard by his peers; he gave evidence to the Royal Commission on Labour on behalf of the Glasgow Agricultural Society.This makes interesting reading for those interested in the social aspects of farming at the time.  James was judging ploughing matches up to a short time before his sudden death from pneumonia; Moulin on the 28^th Feb, 1896 and again at Easthaugh, Moulinarn on 9 March 1896, as reported in the Dundee Courier. There were a number of tributes paid to him after his death.

James Park (I.B) and Annabella Hamilton Morton had the following children:

Janet Park (1865-) born in Cambuslang

William Park (1866-) born in Cambuslang

Elizabeth Park (1868-) born in Cambuslang

Robert Park (1870-) born in Cambuslang

John Park (1875-) born in Cambuslang

Annabella M Park (1878-) born in Cambuslang

James Park (1885-) born in Cambuslang

I have no information on any of these children other than that Annabella married Alexander Murdoch a farmer at East Hallside:

Dundee Courier 07 April 1933…His uncle, the late Mr Robert Murdoch, at West Hallside, bred Mercutio, a noted Clydesdale stallion, which sired the mother of Brunstane Again, one of the most famous living stallions of the breed, and belonging to Mr Robert Park, Brunstane, Portobello, another Highland director, and related to Mr Alex Murdoch by marriage. Mrs Murdoch is a daughter of the late Mr James Park, Dechmont, Cambuslang.

East Hallside and Brunstane are great friends – but rivals. You will notice that the judging ring in June. Mr Park’s twin daughters have a mare which they declare will beat any dark horse East Hallside likes to show. But Mr Murdoch isn’t worrying. Clydesdale breeders, like boxers, are always confident of success.

Robert and Catherine’s third son, William Park (1842-1906) (I .C) married Martha Filshie, a farmer’s daughter of Mount Pleasant, in 1868. They farmed at South Gallow Hill Farm, Paisley before moving to Brunstane, Portobello. William probably moved to Brunstane about 1882; this assumption is based on a document in the Scottish Archives:

‘Plan of the Estate of Easter Duddingston.’ Lithographed by Mould & Tod, Edinburgh.

Copies of a plan of farm of Brunstane, with table of contents, referred to in lease between Benhar Coal Co and William Park: 13 November 1882. Both plans originally dated 1879 (second copy marked Easter Duddingston, 1889)

Brunstane House has a long prestigious history and was sold to the Benhar Coal Company in 1874. Select the link below for a history of the house from 1547:

http://www.edinburghcouncil.info/LDP/LDP2014_supporting/WRAPSON Angela 00390/WRAPSON Angela 00390 Doc 1.pdf

Also, Canmore has recorded some data relating to Brunstane House and farm buildings:

https://canmore.org.uk/site/236307/edinburgh-brunstane-road-south-brunstane-house-steading

Included in Pevsner’s review of Brunstane House is reference to the farm buildings: In the single-storey range of offices added by Robert Adam the coved ceiling of the dairy is enriched with stuccoed garlands by Clayton, 1742. To the simple U-plan steading by Robert Brown, 1824, with a vast octagonal horsemill projecting from the piend-roofed centre block. Dreary Victorian block of farmworkers’ housing to the west.

 William is also mentioned in many newspaper articles as being a frequent prize-winner at stud shows. Many of his horses still feature in stud pedigree records. Some of those mentioned in newspaper articles are “Prince of Brunstane”, colt “Marmion”, six year old “Royal Mail”, mare “Lady Rose” and five year old “Clan Chattan”.

He was not without misfortune, however, Click this link to read some newspaper articles.

The Clydesdale Horse Society of Great Britain and Ireland [Stud Book for 1905]

The portraits appearing in this volume are the winners of the Cawdor Cup of 1905, Mr Matthew Marshall’s Hiawatha Godolphin (12,602), and Mr Wm Park’s Rosadora (Vol XXVII P214). the latter was exported to Canada by Mr W Bryce, Arcola, Asa., in August, 1905 almost immediately after she had won the highest trophy open to a female Clydesdale. It is also a melancholy fact that her owner Mr Wm Park, Brunstane, Portobello, died on 3rd January, 1906. He was a member of Council, whose fellowship was much valued by his brother Councilmen. Rosadora is the first Cawdor Cup winner of either sex which has been exported.

The prestigious Cawdor Cup in Scotland is the highest prize to which a Clydesdale owner can aspire. Using the link below you can read more about the background of the coveted Cawdor Cup, when and where it is awarded plus who has won it throughout the years.

http://www.littlebigranch.se/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=37&Itemid=148&lang=sv – .VWAOk0s2ZbM

This link is an extract from the Clydesdale Horse Society for 1905 and makes interesting reading with many Park horses mentioned.

William’s legacy lives on in the stud books at home and abroad. Click here for an article in the Western Australian newspaper ‘Northern Times’ in 1909, many of the horses mentioned are Park horses. There are areas of Western Australia mentioned in the article where the Sweet family settled in 1854 and had a farm and blacksmith shop.

The farm remained in Park hands until at least 1956, there are a number of references in the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland prize lists to prize winning pigs being accredited to M&J Park, Brunstane Farm, Portobello.

http://archive.rhass.org.uk/archive/transactions-of-rhass-1790-1969/transactions-of-rhass-1950-1959/transactions-of-rhass-volume-1956/612071

Robert and Catherine’s third son, William (I.C), and Martha had six children:

I.C.1 Martha Park (1869-1949) born in Paisley

I.C.2 Elizabeth Park (1871-) born in Paisley

I.C.3 William Park (1873-) born in Paisley

I.C.4 Janet Park (1875-) born in Paisley

I.C.5 James Park (1877-1904) born in Paisley

I.C.6 Robert Park (1880-1955) born in Paisley

Martha Park (I.C.1) married Alexander Niven a farmer in 1895; I have not located Elizabeth Park (I.C.2) after 1901; William Park (I.C.3) became a butcher in Edinburgh and married Jessie Douglas in 1896; Janet Park (I.C.4) I have lost; James Park (I.C.5) farmed at Brunstane with his father but tragically died at only 27 succumbing to scarlet fever and Robert Park (I.C.6) continued farming at Brunstane with his wife, Jane Forsyth Yule (1871- abt1947) whom he had married in 1907. He was also very successful in the show ring with his Clydesdale horses; there are many reports in the newspapers of his success a typical one being:

The Scotsman 18 July 1906

 …From the first it was evident that Mr Robert Park’s handsome six-year-old, “Floradora”, would take a deal of beating, and she was with general approbation assigned the premier place. Sired by “Prince of Brunstane” and bred by the late Mr William Park, this fine mare has been constantly shown since a yearling, but she wears remarkably well and her symmetry and substance are well maintained. She was second at Glasgow when she made her first show-yard appearance in 1901; as a two year old she was first at Kilmarnock and second at Edinburgh; she was second at Kilmarnock and Glasgow and third at Edinburgh the following year; and for the last two years she has had an unbeaten record, having been first successively at Kilmarnock, Ayr, Glasgow, and the Perth Highland Show in 1904, and first at Kilmarnock, champion female at Ayr, and first reserve champion at Edinburgh last year…..

There are several references to him hosting visiting interested parties who viewed parades of his horses: these included, for example, estate factors, seventy Canadian farmers, a party of forty students from the Edinburgh and East of Scotland College of Agriculture and the Edinburgh University Department of Agriculture. It appears he was also successful in dairy breeding:

The Scotsman 29 Jan, 1934

Noted Clydesdales

Students visit to Brunstane

Scientific Stockbreeding

The students saw Mr Park’s herd of dairy cows, and were afterwards greatly interested to see and hear of the Misses Park’s poultry-rearing activities. Nothing but White Wiandottes are kept on the farm, and the latest methods are observed in the business of egg production. Before the students returned to Edinburgh, they were entertained to tea in the fine old farm-house by Mr and Mrs Park.

 Robert and his wife Jane had three children:

Jessie Park (1909-1995) born in Portobello

Martha Park (1910-1976) born in Newcraighall

Jean Park (1910-1990) born in Newcraighall

Jessie Park married John Brooks in 1935, he was a farmer at Kilduff, Drem. Robert and Jane had secondly, a set of twins: Martha and Jean who both made a name for themselves as Clydesdale judges but also for their rearing of pigs.

There are a number of references in the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland prize lists to prize winning pigs being accredited to M&J Park, Brunstane Farm, Portobello.

http://archive.rhass.org.uk/archive/transactions-of-rhass-1790-1969/transactions-of-rhass-1950-1959/transactions-of-rhass-volume-1956/612071

Unfortunately a bout of swine fever in 1976 finished off their business. They were by this time in their 60s. As far as I can ascertain, Martha died in 1976 and Jean in 1990 but I cannot be certain of these dates.

Select this link to view some of the Brunstane Clydesdales.

Mary Park (1844-1882) (I.D), fourth child of William Park and Elizabeth McNeil married Archibald Brown (1840-1888) in 1861. He was a Brick and Tile Manufacturer of Gledstane Park, Erskine Hamlet of Rossland but he clearly also had a an interest in Clydesdale horses:

Glasgow Herald 28 May 1888

Renfrewshire Agricultural Society

 Archibald Brown of Gledstane picked up a prize for his Clydesdales.

 Mary and Archibald had nine children, sadly Mary died at only 38 years old, after giving birth to their last of six daughters. Archibald died 7 years later having suffered a fractured skull.

(I.E.) Catherine Park (1849-1859), second daughter of William Park and Elizabeth McNeil, died of scarlet fever and was buried in Erskine Church yard.

(II) Jean Park (1810-1900), Robert and Catherine’s second child, married John Fulton (1791-Bef 1881) a farmer at Kaimhill, Kilbarchan. They had seven children:

II.A Catherine Fulton (1832-) born in Kilbarchan

II.B James Fulton (1834-) born in Kilbarchan

II.C Margaret Fulton (1836-) born in Kilbarchan

II.D Jean Fulton (1838-) born in Kilbarchan

II.E. Janet Fulton (1840-) born in Kilbarchan

II.F. Jessie Fulton (1842-) born in Kilbarchan

II.G. Robert Fulton (1843-) born in Kilbarchan

(II.D) Jean Fulton (1838-) married Hugh Crawford (1823- Bef 1901) a horse dealer from North Burntshields, Kilbarchan. They had four daughters and two sons and certainly the elder son was also a horse dealer, continuing after Hugh’s death.

(II.F). Jessie Fulton (1842-) married John Hyde Christie (1836-1926) in 1872; they had 3 sons and one daughter. The 1881 census records him as a Merchant involved in Turkey Red Dying, Employing 2188 Persons with a factory based in the Vale of Leven. He was Chairman of the United Turkey Red Co (formed by an alliance of three Turkey Red dye companies in Alexandria, Dunbartonshire) and his three sons followed him into the business. (Note in the Sweet family tree, the Robertson brothers were investors in George Mackintosh’s factory to manufacture Turkey Red dye in the 1780s in Glasgow.)

The Christie Park was gifted to the inhabitants of the parish of Bonhill by John Christie Esqr. of John Orr Ewing & Co [which became part of the United Turkey Red Co] : Alexandria 5th July 1902.

(III) Catherine Park (1813-1886) Born in Cambushethan was the third child of Robert and Catherine Park. She married Alexander Arneil (1806-Abt 1847) in 1834; he was a farmer at Longhough, Erskine. Their children were:

Catherine Arneil (1836-)

James Arneil (1838-)

Robert Arneil (1839-)

Jane Arneil (1840) and her twin

Isabella Arneil (1840-)

Alexander Arneil (1843-)

Margaret Arneil (1845-)

Following Alexander’s premature death at age 41, Catherine and two of her children, Alexander and Margaret, moved in with her mother, Catherine Park (1786-1859), Robert’s widow. Catherine senior farmed 14 acres at Puddockriggs, Erskine. Catherine, the grand-daughter is working as a maid at the Park of Erskine while James is working for his uncle, William Park. Robert and Isabella are working as servants for a James Arneil, a farmer of 90 acres, at Corsebar, Abbey, Renfrewshire; possibly their grandfather. Jane is living with her uncle, Alexander Wilson a farmer of 56 acres at Callouchant Farm, Kilbarchan, she is attending school.

Dorothy McGuire’s theory is that Catherine Park’s farm, Puddockriggs, of only 14 acres was not large enough to support the entire family and this is why the children were put into service, although Jane continued as a scholar while her twin was a servant along with Robert.

Catherine’s mother died in 1859 and presumably Catherine had to leave the farm. By the time of the Census of 1861 Catherine Arneil had moved to Warwick Street, Gorbals and some of the children were back with her in the millinery trade.

Catherine Arneil, the daughter, was a Saleswoman in Boots & Shoes, Isabella Arneil was a Milliner, Jane Arneil was a Shawl Fringer , Alexander Arneil was a Linen Draper and Margaret Arneil was a Straw Bonnet Maker.

I have lost track of James and Robert (Robert may have been away learning his trade as a joiner, see below).

By the 1871 Census, Catherine has moved the family to Dover Street, Barony, Anderston, where three of her children remain with her: Robert Arneil now as a Joiner, Alexander Arneil now a Warehouseman and Margaret Arneil a Machine Stitcher.

By 1881 Catherine’s children have all left and she is living in Reidvale Street, Dennistoun; she died in 1886.

(IV) Robert Park (1817-1870), the fourth child of Robert and Catherine Park married Anne Scott (1821-1899) in 1844. Anne was the eldest child of Walter Scott and Janet Donald who farmed at Greenland. (See Scott the story so far).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Family chart

Robert and Anne had nine children, of whom five survived to adulthood.

IV.A Janet Donald Park (1845-1850) born in Erskine

IV.B Catherine Park (1846-1913) born in Erskine

IV.C Ann Park (1847-1927) born in Erskine

IV.D Janet Donald Park (1850-1851) born in Erskine and her twin

IV.E Robert Cleland Park (1850-1851) born in Erskine

IV.F Mary Park (1852-1931) born in Erskine

IV.G Jane Park (1854-1933) born in Erskine

IV.H Robert Cleland Park (1855-1863) born in Erskine

IV.I Walter Scott Park (1857-1909) born in Erskine.

Robert and Anne farmed 236 acres at Laigh Hatton (Low Hatton) from 1850. Robert’s father, also Robert, probably retired to Puddockrigg Farm, 14 acres, he died there in 1850 at 68 years old. It was at Puddockriggs that his widow continued to farm after his death (see above at Arneil).

(IV.A) Janet Donald Park died as a child and is remembered on a headstone erected in Erskine churchyard for Robert and Anne:

Robert Park farmer Hatton 16.3.1870 age 53, Ann Scott 15.9.1899 age 78, children: Janet aged 5 years, Robert Cleland and Janet Donald twins aged 8 months, Robert Cleland aged 8 years, grandchild Annie 29.5.1883 aged 4 years and 8 months, daughter Ann 23.1.1927 aged 80.

(IV.B) Catherine Park (1846-1913) married John McHarrie (1844-1880) in 1871. John was a baker working for his aunt, Elizabeth McLachlan, in Dumbarton. Elizabeth and her sister took over the bakery from their father some time after 1851 and Elizabeth was the sole baker by 1871. By 1881 both John and his aunt had died and Catherine took over the running of the bakery. They had a daughter:

IV.B.1 Ann Scott McHarrie (1872-1949) who married a farmer Peter Lennox Snodgrass (1866-1939) in 1898. He farmed at Hopefield Farm House, Cockpen. They had two daughters.

(IV.B) Catherine Park (1846-1913) married secondly, in 1889, Dugald McLachlan, who was probably related to Elizabeth McLachlan, also a baker, from Helensburgh. They had three children together:

Lachlan McLachlan (1879-) born in Helensburgh

Isabella H McLachlan (1882-) born in Helensburgh

Marjory S McLaclan (1884-) born in Helensburgh

Robert and Anne’s third daughter, (IV.C) Ann Park (1847-1927), attended The Institution for the Education of the Deaf and Dumb, Lanark, City of Glasgow where on the 1861 census there is an entry for her:

Ann Park Boarder Female aged 12 Scholar born in Bishopton Park, Renfrewshire Deaf and dumb from birth.

Ann, at the time of the 1871 census is staying with her mother at Laigh Hatton, Erskine, Renfrewshire (Low Hatton). Ann (senior) is a widow by this time and running the 310 acre farm. At the time of the 1881 census, Ann was living with her brother Walter Scott Park. Her mother moved to Parkgrove when she retired from the farm and Ann was with her at the time of the 1891 census and was still there in 1901 when her sister Jane had taken over the property.

Parkgrove today:

(IV.D) Janet Donald Park (1850-1851) and her twin

(IV.E) Robert Cleland Park (1850-1851) both died after a few months. They are remembered on the headstone in Erskine Churchyard (see above).

(IV.F) Mary Park (1852-1931) was the sixth child and fifth daughter of Robert and Anne. Scott McCrone has her journal or autograph book. It makes for very interesting reading and while there are many relatives featured in it there are many others, probably local friends and neighbours. There is a page of autographs and the rest of the book is filled with pictures, newspaper clippings, crests (possibly mementoes) and contributions from her friends and family. There is a preface that takes the form of a poem written by Mary and signed as Mary Park, Hatton, 8^th April, 1874. There is an entry by K McHarrie 15^th April, 1874; possibly Catherine Park, Mary’s sister, who married John McHarrie in 1871. There are many entries some of which are dated; the dates fall predominately in the period 1874/75. However there are notable ones from later dates: “To Mr John Scott on his marriage day, 26 July 1877 signed by Agnes C McLintock (descended from Peter Scott/Mary Brock) is a clever poem; in 1883 a poem ‘Snowdrops’ written by JG Skelmorlie Castle 1883, this is John Graham (1797-1896) of the wine importer W&J Graham of Oporto, John Scott’s employer (see Scott story).

I have analysed the autographs to attempt to find the link of the signatories to Mary. This link is to the actual autographs themselves and this link is to the analysis I have made of these.

Mary married John Scott (1853-1921) in 1877 and they had nine children. See Scott: the story so far

IV.G Jane Park (1854-1933) married Robert Park (1849-1881), the first son of John Park and Jane Lochhead, see below. They shared grandparents: Robert Park and Catherine Cleland of Glenshinnoch. At the time of their marriage in 1877, Robert was a farmer at Knockdon, Maybole. Prior to this Robert had managed Hatton for his Aunt Anne Park (Scott) following the death of her husband. They had two children:

Annie Scott Park (1878-1883) born in Maybole, Ayrshire and

John Park (1881-) born in Dunedin, New Zealand.

The family moved to New Zealand some time after 1878 and tragically Robert died in Dunedin in 1881, the same year as his son John was born. Jane returned with Annie and John and then suffered the death of Annie in 1883 who had a cystic tumour for six months. Jane and John lived with her mother Ann Park (Scott) together with Jane’s sister, Ann (IV.C), at Parkgrove (see above). After Ann’s death, Jane and Ann (IV.C) lived at Parkgrove together. Ann (IV.C) died in 1927 at Parkgrove and perhaps at this time Jane moved to Ayr to be near her son John and it was here in 1933 that she died.

IV.H Robert Cleland Park (1855-1863) was the eighth child of Robert Park and Anne Scott but sadly he died of diphtheria aged only 7.

IV.I Walter Scott Park (1857-1909) was born at Hatton and took over the running of the farm from his sister’s husband, Robert Park (1849-1881), see above, who had been managing it for his Aunt Ann. So this would be between 1878 and 1881. There is an advertisement in the Glasgow Herald 18 April, 1879 that gives some weight to this date and narrows the time frame to earlier than 1879:

Ploughman Wanted- a married ploughman – apply to Walter Park, Hatton , Bishopton

Walter’s father, Robert, combined Low Hatton with Upper Hatton and moved his family into Lower Hatton, this became Hatton Farm and Upper Hatton was allowed to decay. However the following notice appeared:

Glasgow Herald 1st April, 1882

For sale the whole Woodwork and Slates of the old Farm-House of High Hatton, Parish of Erskine, formerly occupied by Mr Park. – Offerors to apply to John Wilson Erskine, Glasgow

Robert died in 1870, so presumably Walter was tidying up the land. There is a very interesting article in the Dundee Telegraph of 1897 which describes the farm topography and the farming methods employed.  Walter continued the breeding of Clydesdales and in addition he was renowned for his dairy cattle. This is borne out in these articles:

Glasgow Herald 01 November 1884

The Scottish Dairy Association

Butter instruction in Renfrewshire

The Association’s Educational Working Dairy will at special invitation be shown in practical operation within a wooden pavilion erected in the cattle show field, Paisley for one week (Saturday included) commencing Monday 3rd November. It will thereafter proceed to Hatton Farm, Bishopton possessed by Mr Walter Park where it will be shown in operation for one week (Saturday included) commencing Monday 10th November.

Laval’s Separator at 12, Butter-making at 1, Lecture at 1:30. Questions are then invited. Members and their assistants etc admitted free. Others 2s 5d per lesson, or per week.

 Glasgow Herald 15 June 1888

Bishopton Cattle Show

The turn out of Ayrshire cattle was a remarkably good one. In the class for the best animal of the cow kind, the silver medal was awarded to Mr Walter S Park, Hatton, Bishopton. This cow which was from the stock of Mr James Wilson of Boghall was first in the same class three years ago…. In the cattle classes generally Mr Park was very successful. [Walter picked up 7 out of thirteen prizes for his cattle and as always several for his Clydesdales] [James Wilson of Boghall was Robert’s father-in-law]

Walter married Helen Wilson (1863-1940) in 1885, Helen’s mother’s maiden name was Park descended from John Park and Elisabeth Lang, he farmed at Killellan and Houston. Helen’s father, James Wilson (1832-1890) of Boghall Farm was also a successful Clydesdale breeder and often featured alongside Walter in the prize lists. Walter and Helen had five girls and one boy:

IV.I.a Helen Wilson Park (1887-) born in Erskine, married Alexander James Kennett in 1909;

IV.I.b Annie Scott Park (1887-1966) born in Erskine, married Archibald MacFadyen, a solicitor, in 1927;

IV.I.c Catherine Cleland Park (1890-1964) born in Erskine, married Robert Greenlees in 1914, see below;

IV.I.d Elizabeth Wilson Park (1894-1987) born in Erskine, married Frederick A Charters in 1937

IV.I.e Jane Park(1897-) born in Erskine,married Henry R Charters in 1936; and her twin,

IV.I.f Robert Park (1897-1975) born in Erskine.

According to Arthur Greenlees (see below) Henry (Harry) Charters who married Jane Park (IV.I.e) and his brother Fred, who married Elizabeth Park (IV.I.d) had an electrical business and worked almost exclusively for the shipyards on the Clyde. They were brought up in Langbank and their father, who started their business, was a farmer’s son from Galloway, SW Scotland.

Walter Scott Park (IV.I) died quite suddenly; he had Erysipelas, due to a cut on the forefinger of the right hand, which became Septicaemia and he died four days later on 22nd June 1909.

As a result, Helen must have felt she needed to sell the horses in order that she could manage the reduced farm. Robert Park, Walter’s son, would go on to farm at Hatton in later years but at the time of his father’s death he was only 10 years old and his mother must have felt that the farm would be more easily managed by her without the Clydesdale breeding.

There was a Dispersion sale of High-Class Pedigreed Clydesdale Stallions, Colts, etc.

Messrs. Robert Wilson, son and Laird, Auctioneers, Paisley,

Are favoured with instructions from the executrix of the late

Mr. Walter S. Park to expose the above Stock, by Public Auction.

At Hatton Farm, Bishopton,

On Thursday, 2nd September, 1909,

Commencing at 1-30pm.

[This is taken from a copy of a catalogue that was sent to me by Kate McLeod.]

Further articles can be found on this link

In the Western Australian newspaper, there is reference to some of the Hatton pedigrees.

There were many references in local newspapers over the years noting Walter’s prize Clydesdales and dairy cows. However, one report is an example of the precarious nature of an agricultural income:

 Dundee Advertiser 06 January 1897

Mr Walter S Park, Hatton, Bishopton, has had the misfortune to lose his famous horse Prince of Erskine, one of the very best Clydesdale horses seen at the shows of the last two or three years. Two years ago he took the Glasgow three-year old premium, and was undoubtedly the favourite for the first place at the Perth “Highland”, although he was placed second. The sire of Prince of Erskine was Prince of Albion and his dam was Hatton Beauty by Darnley.

The fresh outbreaks of swine fever reported to the Board of Agriculture last week rose to 103, while the number of swine slaughtered as diseased or as having been exposed to infection was 1452.

Greenock Telegraph and Clyde Shipping Gazette 29 June 1900

Lost and Found

Cow lost on Wednesday forenoon. Finder return to W S Park, Hatton, Bishopton

And more misfortune:

Greenock Telegraph and Clyde Shipping Gazette 12 December 1905

Yesterday fire broke out at the farm of Mr Park, The Hattons, near Langbank. The burning originated in some haystacks, and before being finally extinguished considerable damage was done.

From the reference above, IV.I.c Catherine Cleland Park (1890-1964) who married Robert Greenlees in 1914 had one son, Arthur Greenlees. Robert was an India Rubber Merchant but while visiting his son, Arthur, at St Andrews University he died. Arthur had been studying an Arts degree but gave up immediately to take on the rubber business. His mother, Catherine, joined with Robert Park of Hatton, her brother, to form the business of Robertson Rubber Company:

 The Scotsman 23 May 1936

New Scottish Companies

19133- Robertson Rubber Company (Ltd,) 44 Queen Street, Glasgow. Private company to acquire the business of the late Robert Greenlees, rubber merchant, and to carry on same and also to act as general warehousemen. Capital £3,000 in £1 shares. Subscribers- Mrs Catherine C. Greenlees, “Lynton”, Duchal Road, Kilmacolm, and Robert Park, farmer, Hatton, Bishopton.

It was under Arthur’s management that the firm grew to become a household name. His obituary makes interesting reading.

Arthur Greenlees recounts that Boghall was one of ten farms which were compulsorily acquired by the war Office to build a replacement for Georgetown munitions factory. They were taken over about 1936 and the officer mainly concerned was Colonel Wilson [descended from Wilson of Boghall]. It was said at the time he was related to the occupants of 7 of the 10 farms involved. These now comprise the Bishopton Royal Ordnance Factory. In 1942 it was said to employ 23,000 workers working in shifts.

Robert Park (1897-1975) (IV.I.f) carried on at Hatton Farm and true to his roots was a judge at stallion shows as well as his dairy cattle featuring in sales.

Robert Park married Margaret Fraser Ferguson (1902-1959) in 1936 at Langbank. They had three children:

Walter Park (1937-)

Robert Park (1939-)

Mary Park (1942-)

(V) Ann Park (1821-1825), fifth child of Robert Park (1782-1850), and Catherine Cleland (1786-1859), may have died any time before 1825, when another Ann was born.

(VI) John Park (1823-1897) was farming, probably from 1844 or so (see below), 160 acres at West Glenshinnoch when he married Jane Lochhead (1802-1882) in 1848. Jane’s father farmed at East Glenshinnoch, a farm of 179 acres. Jane’s mother was a Scott but I don’t think she is directly related.

Family chart for John Park 1823 (1823-1897) and Jane Lochhead (1802-1882).

At only 21 years old John was already in the prize-winners lists:

Glasgow Herald 20 May, 1844

Scotland

Renfrewshire Horses

At the annual show of stallions which took place at Peebles on the 8th current, the horse, Young Sovereign, belonging to Mr Park, Glenshinnoch, Erskine, carried off the first prize, of twenty sovereigns, from a large number of competitors. Several other Renfrewshire horses have been successful at taking prizes at various recent county shows, indicating a growing improvement in the breed of horses in this county. – Paisley Advertiser

 And again a few years later:

Greenock Advertiser 3 July 1849

Erskine Parish Cattle Show

For the best cow in milk- 2nd John Park

For the best 2 year old cow in milk- 1st Mr John Park, 2nd and 3rd Mr Robert Park, Hatton

For the best pair of two year old Queys, in calf or milk, bred by and never out of the possession of the exhibitor- 1st J Park, 2nd John Scott, Barscule

For the best milk cow and two of her offspring above one year old Mr R Park

For the best bull not exceeding seven years old 1st Mr Robert Park

For the best draught mare, for agricultural purposes 1st Mr Robert Park

For the best two year old draught filly 2nd Mr J Scott

For the best one year old draught colt 1st Mr John Park

John shows his versatility:

Renfrewshire Advertiser 15 October 1859 John Park, Glenshinnoch, Erskine is collecting 1st prize for his Yellow turnip: Renfrewshire Agricultural Society Autumn Competition.

He achieves many mentions in the prize lists over the years.

John and Jane had six daughters and four sons

VI.A Robert Park (1849-1881) born in Erskine

VI.B John Park (1851-1924) born in Erskine

VI.C Alexander Park (1853-1853) born in Erskine

VI.D Jane Scott Park (1854-) born in Erskine and her twin

VI.E Catherine Cleland Park (1854-) born in Erskine

VI.F Janet Park (1856-1946) born in Erskine

VI.G William Park (1858-1909) born in Erskine

VI.H Mary Park (1861-1956) born in Erskine

VI.I Helen Park (1863-) born in Erskine

VI.J Annie Park (1865-1940) born in Erskine

VI.A Robert Park (1849-1881) married Jane Park (1854-1933) in 1877 see above at IV.G.

VI.B John Park (1851-1924) farmed 160 acres at Gilston Farm, Polmont. At the time of the 1881 census, his sister Janet Park (1856-1946) was his housekeeper and another sister Annie Park (1856-1940) was staying with him while attending school. In October 1881 he married Marion Carruth Gilmour (1855-1932) the daughter of a farmer.

John was a regular prize-winner for his horses and appears as a prize-winner for his sheep in 1904. In particular, at the East Stirlingshire Agricultural Association Thirtieth Christmas Show in 1904, he won first prize for the category, Fat Sheep.- Five cross hoggets (first cross out of blackface ewes by Leicester ram) 1^st John Park, Gilston. After the show, the majority of the prize-winners were sold and of the sheep, Mr Park’s (Gilston) 1st prize cross hoggets were bought by Mr R S Graham Falkirk at 53s. This pen also won the extra prize for the best lot for butcher’s purposes.

Also in 1904, he was a judge for turnip-growing. Frequently he was competing with Robert Meikle, Bearcrofts. Both were tenants of the Marquis of Zetland.

In 1901 some of the land was given over to be a golf club.

It would appear that part of the course was used for the defence of Grangemouth during WWII. Falkirk Archives include a number of photos and describe the use of the golf course as for a Bofors AA unit. Also there is a Canmore project to record lost farms.

https://canmore.org.uk/site/351084/polmont-gilston-polmont-golf-club

John and Marion had five children, the first of whom was still born in 1883. Of the subsequent children: Marion 1886, Jane 1887 and twins Matthew and John 1888, it was John junior who carried on the farm after his father’s death in 1924. John junior also appeared in prize lists for his entries to the agricultural shows in horses and sheep.

VI.C Alexander Park (1853-1853) born in Erskine died when only three days old.

VI.D Jane Scott Park (1854-) born in Erskine and a twin to Catherine.

VI.E Catherine Cleland Park (1854-1937) born in Erskine.

VI.F Janet Park (1856-1946) born in Erskine married Robert Meikle (1857-1932) in 1889; Robert was a farmer at Polmont Hill and Bearcroft, Grangemouth. Robert is frequently mentioned for his prize winning in the category of Horses for Agricultural Purposes. He clearly competed against John Park senior (VI.B).

Janet and Robert had three children:

Janet L Meikle (1890-1971) born in Polmont, Stirlingshire

Robert William Meikle (1892-1978) born in Polmont, Stirlingshire

John Park Meikle (1896-1976) born in Polmont, Stirlingshire

According to Robert Stevenson, when their son Robert married Mary Walker in 1921, they moved to Hardengreen and Robert junior farmed at Bearcroft until he moved to Ayr in 1971.

 John Park Meikle also showed Clydesdales, he bred the stallion Benedictine (in 1929), who sired Harden Benedicta, Robert Stevenson’s Grandfather’s mare, who was the   dam of Dunsyre Footprint RHAS Champion 1950. John farmed at Pilmuir, Southfield and Hoprig Mains, East Lothian.

Robert Stevenson

Hardengreen was recently offered for sale by Rettie, this link provides photos of the interior:

http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-45523733.html

The Scotsman 26 March 1932

The Late Mr Meikle, Hardengreen.

The death was announced yesterday, at Hardengreen, Dalkeith, of Mr Robert Meikle, aged 75 years. A native of Polmont, he for over 30 years, tenanted Bearcrofts, Grangemouth. He was for a long period a director of the East Stirlingshire Agricultural Society, and served for a term as its president. He took a keen interest in the breeding of Clydesdale horses. Twelve years ago he acquired the farm of Hardengreen, and was latterly a member of the Dalkeith Agricultural Society. He leaves his widow, a daughter and two sons, both of whom are farmers.

VI.G William Park (1858-1909) took over his father’s farm, Glenshinnoch and married Mary Henderson Raeside (1869-1926) in 1894.

William Park [son of John] Glenshinnoch begins to appear in prize-winners for example in 1895 at Lanark Special Show and Sale of Young Clydesdale Horses at Lanark. He would appear to have built up a lot of skill and knowledge as he is frequently judging Clydesdales and is referred to in articles.

By the time of the 1901 census, William and Mary had three sons:

John Park (1859-1959) born in Erskine

David Park (1898-) born in Erskine

William Park (1900-) born in Erskine

VI.H Mary Park (1861-1956) who was born in Erskine died unmarried in Partick and was buried with her parents in Erskine.

VI.I Helen Park (1863-) born in Erskine married William Wilson (1861-) a farmer at Netherlaw, Rerrick, Dumfries and Galloway.

At the time of the 1901 census, William Wilson was visiting his mother, Helen Park (Wilson) (1836-1911) at Boghall Farm, Houston.

Helen Park was a granddaughter of Robert Park (1782-1850) and Catherine Cleland (1786-1859) as was Walter Scott Park (1857-1909) of Hatton who married Helen Wilson (1863-1940), William Wilson’s sister.

VI.J Annie Park (1865-1940) born in Erskine also died unmarried and was buried with her parents in Erskine.

The next two children of Robert Park and Catherine Cleland, both born in Erskine, died at birth:

(VII) Ann Park (1825-1825) Born in Glenshinnoch, Erskine died in infancy buried at Erskine Churchyard.

(VIII) Ann Park (1826-1826) Born in Glenshinnoch, Erskine died in infancy buried at Erskine Churchyard.

The last of Robert and Catherine’s children,( IX) Helen Park (1830-1913), born in Glenshinnoch, Erskine married Alexander Wilson (1823-1900) a farmer first at Callouchant Farm, Kilbarchan and, at the time of the 1861 census, at Langfaulds Farm, New Kilpatrick. This Wilson line is not connected to the Wilsons who married Helen Park (VI.I) or Walter Scott Park (IV.I) above.

Alexander Wilson was an arable farmer and built up a reputation as a lecturer on farm improvement methods. A number of the Agricultural Societies had Discussion Groups at which speakers were invited to offer advice and guidance on the latest techniques in farming; these appear to have started in the west around 1895. Alexander was a frequent speaker at a number of these. For example a report in the Falkirk Herald January 1897 contains Mr Wilson, in the course of a most interesting lecture, containing a mass of information of much value to agriculturalists,… Mr Wilson then went on to deal with the working of land, emphasising the need for square ploughing. As reported in Glasgow Herald 11 March 1897 from a meeting of the Glasgow Agricultural Discussion Society, Alexander is quoted thus: Referring to the proposal to substitute mechanical for horse haulage of the cars in Glasgow, he expressed the hope that the Corporation would stay their hand before entering upon an enterprise which would be so detrimental to the agricultural interests. Presumably this was concern over the loss of the source of manure or loss of the market to supply horses!

Alexander won a number of prizes in the 1880s for showing his stallion “Farmer’s Boy” bred by Peter McAulay. He sat on the Parochial Board for a number of years.

They had nine children:

Catherine Wilson (1850-) born in Erskine

John Wilson (1852-) born in Erskine

Jane Wilson (1854-) born in Kilbarchan

Helen Wilson (1856) born in Kilbarchan

Robert Park Wilson (1859-1935) born in Kilbarchan

Agnes Wilson (1865-) born in Dunbartonshire

Alexander Wilson (1868-) born in Dunbartonshire

William Wilson (1870-) born in Dunbartonshire

Mary Wilson (1873-) born in Dunbartonshire

After Alexander’s death in 1900, Helen carried on with the farm as shown on the 1901 census. Their son Robert Park Wilson took over the running of the farm and as demonstrated in his obituary, he was also a major player in improving the farming skills of his peers.

Kirkintilloch Herald 03 April 1935

Death of a well-known farmer

Mr R P Wilson, Langfaulds

The death occurred of Mr R P Wilson, Langfaulds, Bearsden, on Thursday morning, in a Glasgow nursing home. For many years Mr Wilson was one of the best known farmers in the west of Scotland, and he had occupied a prominent place in the affairs of the National Farmers’ Union of Scotland.

Mr Wilson, who was unmarried, succeeded his father in the occupancy of Langfaulds Farm, situated on the road from Bearsden to Duntocher. His father was noted as a man of pronounced character, and Mr Wilson himself was equally virile and pungent in his comments upon everyday affairs. He was a strong supporter of the Farmers’ Union in its pioneering days just before the War. He served as chairman of the Kilpatrick branch, and he acted as a member of the Central Executive for a number of years.

In the farming affairs of his own parish he took an active part. He was chairman of the Kilpatrick Farmers’ Society, a Co-operative purchasing agency with headqurters at Milngavie, and also of the threshing mill company that operated in the district. He was a popular personality at local agricultural shows, and frequently acted as a judge in dairy produce.

As mentioned above VI.I Helen Park (1863-) who married William Wilson and IV.I Walter Scott Park (1857-1909) who married Helen Wilson were descended from John Park (1802-1868) and Elisabeth Lang(1802-1870)

This link will allow you to view the family chart for John Park and Elisabeth Lang.

If you would like a family tree in diagram form, please contact me with the name of the family in which you are interested and I will send you the tree.

Sources:

Find my Past and British Newspaper Archive

Scotland’s People

Kate MacLeod

Robert Stevenson

Dorothy McGuire thesis “Go West for a wife”