Consider Possilpark, once just a mansion house and home farm. It wasn’t much more until about 1870. The gates stood where Saracen Cross is now. Sheriff Alison was the last resident in the mid-19th century.
After Alison’s death in 1867, Walter Macfarlane acquired the property. Macfarlane was drawn by the newly built railway. He moved his celebrated architectural ironworks there from Anderston. Other industrial firms followed. By World War I, Possilpark was an industrial district. It officially became part of Glasgow in 1891. MacFarlane named the estate Possilpark.
MacFarlane’s Saracen Foundry significantly shaped Possilpark. The area grew rapidly. From just 10 residents in 1872, it swelled to over 10000 by 1891. MacFarlane redesigned the estate. He removed all woodlands. After establishing railway access, he laid out the parkland in a grid pattern. Streets and tenements arose. He named the main street Saracen Street.
MacFarlane’s company was a major manufacturer of ornamental ironwork. They created railings, water fountains, and park bandstands. These items were exported throughout the British Empire. Many examples can still be found across Britain. A reproduction stands at Saracen Cross in Possilpark since 2001.
The Glasgow Town Council praised Possilpark’s layout. They called it one of the finest and best-conducted in Glasgow. The council noted that the suburb was laid out with skill and intelligence. It quickly became an important addition to the great city.
During the inter-war years, Possilpark saw intense housing development. The Housing Act of 1919 empowered local authorities to build homes. Before 1914, only 290 local authority houses existed. By May 1930, 584 more houses were either finished or under construction. By World War II, about 2000 houses had been built in twenty years. People moved from demolished city center tenements.
To support the growing community, schools were built and three cinemas opened. The Astoria at the Round Toll held 3000 people. It was called Scotland’s largest working-class cinema. Many residents became fans of Partick Thistle Football Club.
Ironically, new housing coincided with the decline of Possilpark’s industries. By the 1950s, the area was known for urban decay. After a takeover in 1965, the Saracen Foundry closed. The infrastructure was demolished in 1967. The site is now occupied by commercial firms, including Allied Motors.
Despite past struggles, Possilpark has a vibrant spirit. Many community groups offer diverse activities. Arts, culture, sports, gardening, and cooking are all available. These activities enrich the lives of local people.
Today, Possilpark continues to evolve. Saracen Street remains a busy shopping area. New businesses are emerging. The community’s spirit shines through. Possilpark is working towards a brighter future.