Calton Weavers painting returned to the Calton

GLASGOW. Calton Burial Ground.

Jim Lister, Calton Weavers Commemoration Committee at the Calton Burial Ground. with the Andrew Hay painting. 3 Weavers are buried at this spot.

An artwork by one of Scotland’s most admired artists has come home to Calton.

The piece by the late Andrew Hay depicts one of the bloodiest episodes in the history of this well-known east end of Glasgow community where Thenue Housing has its HQ.

In 1787 six weavers who personified the skill and hard work of an industry which Calton was historically famous for were shot dead by soldiers during a protest about falling wages. It was the earliest major industrial dispute in Scottish history and the Calton weavers became Scotland’s first working-class martyrs.

Two hundred years later in 1987 self-taught artist Andrew Hay – who was born in the east end and who died earlier this year - was commissioned to depict the scene and his artwork has been in the safe keeping of trade union Unite the Union ever since.

Now to mark the 11th anniversary of the opening of the Calton Heritage and Learning Centre on London Road, adjacent to Thenue Housing, Unite the Union has loaned the painting to the Calton community so it can go on display. In the late 18th century, Glasgow was a growing centre for the textile industry, with the Calton weavers playing an integral role in its success. These highly skilled workers faced significant wage reductions, prompting them to organise and demand fair compensation for their employment.

The painting’s homecoming – and Andrew’s depiction of the massacre - is a unique reminder of the sacrifices made by previous generations which underpin trade union values and hard-won employment rights of millions of workers. It was unveiled by Andrew’ wife Jacqui Wallace who, prior to the unveiling, spoke movingly of her late husband’s passion for painting and the importance he placed on social justice.

The unveiling was organised in partnership with the Calton Weavers Commemoration Committee.

The Calton Heritage and Learning Centre is the product of years of campaigning – assisted by Thenue Housing - for a community hub for Calton.

It opened its doors on 1 November 2013, has been a stunning success ever since and become a focal point for a host of neighbourhood activities.

Thenue Housing chief executive Gary Naylor, said: “The effort by the community to create the Calton Heritage and Learning Centre cannot be understated. It was people power which made this place a reality and we owe every one of them a huge debt of gratitude.

“It now plays a vital role in the vibrant life of Calton and in the east end in general. Long may it continue to serve this community.”

The Centre is run by Thenue Communities – a subsidiary of Thenue Housing - and Rosie Robertson is the Centre’s original manager.

Rosie Robertson added: “It hardly seems like 11 years since we first opened our doors. We cannot now imagine Calton without the CHLC and over the years it has brought people