April 6, 2011
Who planted what where and when?
Glasgow has a rich cultural heritage and the wide variety of allotments and community gardens that can be found scattered across the city all contribute in their own way. The history of this particular form of community activity is rooted in the land, the politics, the industry and the people. All kinds of people from different backgrounds and cultures have cultivated plots through the years and much has changed over that time. But this aspect of Glasgow’s past has never been recorded. Until now
In August 2010 Scottish Allotments and Gardens Society supported by the Glasgow Allotments Forum (GAF) was awarded a grant by the Heritage Lottery Fund to research and record the history and stories of Allotments and Community Gardens in Glasgow.
Why did we get a grant?
Allotments and community gardens are part of Glasgow’s culture and heritage, they are rooted in the land, the politics, industry and the people. The land owners included the Maxwells, the Campbells, the Corporation and the Railways. All kinds of people from different backgrounds and cultures – including labourers, judges, teachers, firemen – cultivate plots. In the second world war we grew leeks, kale and potatoes, today we also grow exotic vegetables and flowers. Our huts reveal the creativity, skill and ingenuity of our community. But….
There is no permanent record of this history. We need to record it for ourselves and for future generations.
What are we doing? Volunteers – plot-holders, members of the local community, schools, playgroups – are working together to preserve and record our Glasgow heritage by:
- Exploring estate documents, minutes, newspaper articles, photos, event records, maps
- Recording the stories of plot holders, their families and friends – capturing the wellbeing, the social importance and the passion for their plots.
- Developing and sustaining this web site to ensure the project continues
We will produce leaflets for at least 10 sites and share information through a Spring Event and a community launch in the Autumn.