SPRINGBANK

Between Belvidere and Springfield Rd lay that part of Wester Dalbeth known as "Newlands Croft." This had belonged to the Grays of Dalmarnock, but was acquired and renamed Springbank by John Wardrop - yet another tobacco merchant - c.1780. His descendants were among those to lose their fortune as a consequence of the American War of Independence. The property was sold to relatives, but subsequently fell into other hands.

The 22 acres of Springbank followed the curve of the Clyde southwards towards Dalmarnock, and seems to have been a most charming place with its mansion, orchard, walled garden, hothouse and greenhouse. Sadly, it too was mostly given over to commercial exploitation. The present occupants of the site are Belvidere Bowling Club; the remnants of Springfield Park, one-time home ground of Strathclyde F.C.; tenemental property in Silverdale and Williamson Streets; and, sited upon the one time Springbank Brick Works, is Begg, Cousland & Co., Ltd.

This wire manufacturing company - an amalgamation of three firms - moved from their original factory in Wesleyan St to the newly built premises in 1881. Business prospered and the factory expanded. They provided wire cloth for security measures in the construction of the Forth Bridge. Their expertise was also sought by William Thomson of Glasgow University, later Lord Kelvin, when he was studying electricity. Over the years, they have provided wire work for many famous ships; The Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, the royal yacht Britannia, and the battleship Hood.