“Did you know that the streets of High Earnock have names inspired by ancient royalty?”
High Earnock is a residential area in Hamilton. It’s east of Earnock Estate and south of Hillhouse. Let’s explore its interesting story.
The area we’re in was developed in the 1960s. Some buildings here are among the oldest in the area.
Many street names in High Earnock come from rulers of the Kingdom of Strathclyde. This kingdom existed in the 6th century. For example, there is Rederech Crescent. It’s named after King Rederech. Langoreth Avenue is named after Queen Langoreth. Royellen Avenue is named after Princess Royellen.
Local legend says the family’s summer hunting lodge was in the High Earnock area.
Other streets have names inspired by Scotland’s geography. Lomond View references Ben Lomond. Fruin Rise refers to Glen Fruin. Iona Ridge is named after the island of Iona.
Public transport is readily accessible from High Earnock. The JJ Travel 228 bus route serves High Earnock. It runs to Laighstonehall and Hamilton Town Centre on Sundays only.
Children in High Earnock attend Townhill Primary School. It opened in 1965. The original building was replaced in 2010. Catholic children can attend St Ninian’s Primary School.
For secondary education, students attend Calderside Academy in Blantyre. It formed from a merger of Earnock High School and Blantyre High School in 2007. Catholic students may attend John Ogilvie High School or Holy Cross High School. Both are in Hamilton.
Once upon a time, a kind laird named Mr. Watson gave Jersey cows to his tenants. This happened at Earnock. The event was quite unique. It showed the laird’s interest in those around him.
In June 1892, Mr. Watson invited many important people to Earnock House. Guests included Lord Provost Muir of Glasgow. They enjoyed the beautiful lawns and gardens. The party then visited Midstone Hall. It was Mr. Watson’s son’s new home. Architect Alexander Cullen designed the house. The billiard room had tiles depicting scenes from Sir Walter Scott novels.
Later, everyone gathered at Home Farm. A hay-shed was transformed into a beautiful space. Eighty ladies and gentlemen attended a luncheon. Mr. John Watson, Junr., was in charge. Mr. T. W. Watson assisted him.
After the meal, Mr. W. McGhie proposed a toast to “The Laird of Earnock.” He praised John Watson’s character. He noted his rise through hard work and integrity. Mr. T. Watson then toasted the tenantry. He hoped they would raise a good herd of Jersey cattle.
Finally, Mr. Watson presented the Jersey cows. He hoped everyone would be pleased. Four widows each received a three-year-old cow. The cows were distributed by a draw. The day ended with cheers for Mr. and Mrs. Watson.
Though Earnock High School no longer stands, it played a significant role. It served students from 1957 to 2007. The school closed in June 2007. It merged with Blantyre High to form Calderside Academy. The old school building was destroyed in a fire in June 2008. Today, a housing development called Earnock Glen occupies the site.
The tale of High Earnock offers a glimpse into a community. A community shaped by history. A community connected to the land. A community with royalty in their street names.