Clyde Iron Works
The Fullerton coal mine must have been a principle contributory factor in the siting of the Clyde Iron Works, the area being rich in coal and iron-stone. Shortly after establishment in 1786, 20,000 tons of coal were consumed, in the iron-works, annually. Two blast furnaces were in operation and a boring-mill, for cannon and cylinders, was being prepared. Forges for converting pig-iron into bar-iron were also being installed. From the Statistical Account:
“About 300 manufacturers and labourers are employed: They begin to mould small goods so early as 10 years of age. Men’s wages according to their department, are from 7/- (35p) to 21/- per week. After being smelted in the furnaces, the iron is made into a variety of cast-iron goods, as pots, pans, boilers etc. From the enterprising spirit and abilities of the proprietors, there is reason to expect that these works will be soon extended to a very large scale. Contrary to what one would imagine, the people are healthy and live long. This warm business seems to be friendly to population - most of the workmen have numerous families.”
It would seem that the present decline in population may be attributed to a lack of warmth in the work place.
The site of the Clyde Iron Works appears to have been an ancient burial ground. When digging the foundation of the buildings, a large quantity of human bones were found, deposited between two flag-stones. These stones were placed so as to form a huge cavity and this was covered with another flag-stone. Earthen urns were discovered, containing ashes mixed with small bones and some of the bones were marked with fire burns.
In a sinking pit, at a depth of 60 feet, the shells of different sea animals were found, completely petrified.
The iron works were erected as a subsidiary of the Carron Works, primarily to make guns for the Napoleonic Wars. The original founder was William Caddell of Carron. Joseph Outram was manager at Clyde Iron Works and his son George, born 1805, became the proprietor and editor of the Glasgow Herald.
The Dunlop family of Carmyle, purchased the land of Tollcross from the Corbett family, in 1810 and soon afterwards acquired the Clyde Iron Works, becoming a powerful name in the steel industry. The Dunlops were one of the most influential families, responsible for the industrial development of the district, at that time. Cohn Dunlop died at Tollcross in 1837. His eldest son, James Dunlop, built the Tollcross House in 1848. Glasgow Corporation acquired the estate in 1897 and it became a public park for the east end of the city.
