Winter Talk – ‘Scotland’s Railways at War – 1914-18’
Colonel The Rev Gavin Douglas OBE
This talk will cover a snapshot of the Scottish Railway System prior to hostilities when the Scottish Central Belt was a hive of heavy industry underpinned by a steady flow of raw materials moved by rail. On the outbreak of war, the railways recovered reservists from annual camp and deployed the BEF to France. As the war progressed 1/7th of railwaymen enlisted had to be replaced by women. In addition to keeping trade and industry moving the railways provided locomotives, rolling stock and ambulance trains to the front while railway workshops turned out armaments and munitions. Suppling the Grand Fleet with Welsh steam coal was a notable operating challenge. The Quintinshill collision – Britain’s worst railway disaster (involving 7th Battalion Royal Scots) will be outlined. The study will conclude with the impact of the War on the future organization of the railways.
About the Speakers
Gavin Douglas, a clergyman and former Argyll with a life-long passion for railways will provide a fascinating insight into this subject. He lives in South Wales.
Ticket Application
Timings – All talks will take place in The Colours’ Room located in The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Museum, Kings Old Building, Stirling Castle. Lectures will begin at 11.00am, last one hour with refreshments from 10.30am and after the event.
Tickets – Tickets are £12 each and can be purchased at the bottom of this page. There is no need to buy an additional Stirling Castle ticket.
Parking – If you wish to park on the Esplanade you will have to purchase a parking ticket. We are not able to reserve any parking and this will be charged at £4 per car. Free parking may be available on Ballengeich Pass/Upper Castlehill Road – please note there may be timed restrictions for these areas.
Further Information- If you require further information, please email the museum team at museum@argylls.co.uk
