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Glasgow - Shipbuilding on the Clyde - ghosts of the past, appear in this riveting story of Glasgow’s River Clyde, once the beating heart of global shipbuilding.
10/18/2025
Glasgow - Shipbuilding on the Clyde - ghosts of the past, appear in this riveting story of Glasgow’s River Clyde, once the beating heart of global shipbuilding.
This special episode delves into the rich maritime legacy of Glasgow’s River Clyde, once a global powerhouse of shipbuilding. From the early 19th to the mid-20th century, the Clyde’s shipyards were at the forefront of industrial innovation and naval craftsmanship, producing thousands of vessels that left an indelible mark on world history. This prolific output earned Glasgow the prestigious title of the “Second City of the British Empire,” a testament to its pivotal role in global trade, warfare, and transportation. Although shipbuilding on the Clyde can be traced back to the 15th century, it was the Industrial Revolution that truly transformed the region into a maritime titan. Key developments such as the deepening of the river and innovating construction techniques enabled the building and launch of much larger ships. These infrastructural advancements, coupled with the era’s technological progress, catalyzed a boom in ship production. By the late 1800s, the Clyde was responsible for building an astonishing 20% of the world’s ships, a feat that underscores its global significance. The episode not only explores the technical and historical aspects of Clyde shipbuilding but also brings to life the human stories behind the steel. Listeners are treated to tales of iconic ships constructed along the riverbanks—vessels that played crucial roles in shaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of their time. These narratives highlight the ingenuity, resilience, and craftsmanship of the workers who toiled in the shipyards, often in challenging conditions, to produce some of the most renowned ships in maritime history. Adding a deeply personal dimension to the episode is the perspective of a veteran shipyard worker-manager-shipyard owner who began his career at the age of 16 and dedicated over four decades to the industry. His firsthand account offers invaluable insights into the day-to-day realities of life in the yards, the camaraderie among workers, and the pride they took in their contributions to a globally respected industry. His reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the human element at the heart of industrial achievement. For those interested in visualizing this remarkable chapter of Scottish history, you can view some photographs on the Unique Scotland website www.exclusivescottishvisits.co.uk. These images capture both the grandeur of the Clyde’s shipbuilding heyday and the remnants of its once-bustling shipyards as they stand today. In essence, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to Glasgow’s shipbuilding heritage—a story of innovation, industry, and identity. It celebrates the River Clyde not just as a geographical feature, but as a symbol of Scotland’s contribution to the world’s maritime legacy. Through historical context, personal testimony, and visual storytelling, the episode paints a vivid picture of a bygone era that continues to resonate in the cultural memory of Glasgow and beyond.
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