Hidden within Glasgow’s embrace lies Craigton a residential haven steeped in history. Craigton wasn’t always a suburb. It was once farmland serving nearby Govan. Imagine the fields stretching out before you. City trams and buses once rumbled along the road now a pedestrian underpass beneath the M8 motorway.
Craigton’s heart beats to the rhythm of its past. Craigton Farm stood proudly where now houses stand. The grand Craigton House once graced the landscape. Its estate became the foundation of the Craigton neighbourhood. This development blossomed between the World Wars alongside other projects like Drumoyne Moorepark and Mosspark. Each neighbourhood reflects a unique chapter in Glasgow’s growth.
Craigton Primary School opened its doors in 1910. The renowned artist George Wyllie walked those very halls as a pupil. The school stands as a testament to Craigton’s enduring spirit. Nearby a small industrial estate hums with activity. Shops line Paisley Road West bustling with life.
But Craigton’s story extends beyond its homes and businesses. Craigton Cemetery opened in 1873. It’s a poignant place where thousands of lives are quietly remembered. The cemetery includes a crematorium added in 1957. Its grounds hold a significant number of commonwealth war graves honouring those who served. The cemetery’s proximity to Ibrox Stadium fortifies its connection to Rangers Football Club.
Before the houses rose the area was also known as Wearieston. This name recalls the fields belonging to a farm. The name has faded but the land’s history endures. Craigton has been a part of Pollokshields ward since 2017. Before that it resided within the Govan ward for a decade. A ward bearing Craigton’s name existed too. The neighbourhood however was never part of that ward. In 2017 it was renamed Cardonald.
Craigton’s past is deeply woven into the fabric of Glasgow. Its transformation from farmland to thriving suburb is a captivating story. The area holds a special place in the city’s history. A visit to Craigton offers a glimpse into Glasgow’s dynamic past and present. Walk its streets and feel the echoes of history.