Doesn’t the unassuming exterior of Parkhead Congregational Church belie the vibrant history within? This church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and faith in Parkhead. Let’s step back in time and uncover the story of this cherished landmark.
Parkhead Congregational Church’s roots trace back to March 1863. Twenty scholars and three teachers gathered in the old Beaming Room in Shinty Ha. They formed a Sunday school. This humble beginning marked the genesis of what would become the Parkhead Congregational Church.
At that time, Parkhead was a village. It consisted largely of weavers’ shops. Long stretches of green fields separated it from the city. The population numbered about five thousand. The nearest churches were at Tollcross and Whitevale. The Congregational Church met in Dovehill. They resolved to commence Sabbath School work in Parkhead. The Sabbath School opened.
For the first year or two, Mr Murray was in charge. Mr Barr served as secretary. After a short period, Mr Murray retired. Mr Barr became superintendent. Everyone knew Mr Barr. Sandy Barrs Sunday School was famous far beyond Parkhead. He possessed a strong and forceful personality. It stamped deep on the School.
In 1879, the present church in Westmuir Street was built. The scholars found a home there. The Beaming Room eventually became too small. For a considerable time, the school met in the Old Academy in New Road Duke Street. Around fifty years ago the present church in Westmuir Street was built. There the scholars found a home.
The early records offer an interesting sidelight. They show the social activities of the school. They depict life in Parkhead in those early days. In 1868, the Sunday school organised its first excursion. The people of Parkhead took their pleasures somewhat strenuously.
On September 1, children and parents mustered at Parkhead Cross at 6 o’clock in the morning. The Lord Clyde Band headed them. They marched to the Broomielaw. They boarded the steamer Lady Brisbane for Garelochhead. A wonderful day was spent there. Upon their return, the young trippers marched to Parkhead. An immense crowd of mothers brothers sisters and others waited to welcome them back. The greetings were as warm as if the young voyageurs had been away for a year beyond the sea.
Mr Barr labored wholeheartedly for almost thirty years. He laid the foundation. Succeeding generations built upon it.
In 1925, the church underwent renovation. Rev Henry Wallace was the minister at the time. Special meetings celebrated the school’s seventieth anniversary.
The Parkhead Congregational Church has been influenced for good in the district. It has seen many changes in Parkhead. It remains virile and active.
The Parkhead Congregational Church stands as a testament to faith community and enduring legacy. Its story is woven into the fabric of Parkhead. It reminds us of the power of collective action and the importance of spiritual guidance in shaping a community.