Author: The Hampden Collection

I hurry home from work. There is a Committee Meeting tonight. When I arrive the discussion is ear-splitting and our President brings the meeting to order. The Secretary reads out the letter again and our brains spin through the possibilities. I have read up a little on the English game. Like Scotland they have a … Continue reading Chapter 25 – A Golden Invitation →

The world stops. I read the letter not once, twice or three times. I read until every word is learned. “Sir, will you allow me a few lines in your paper to notify Scotch players that a match under the above title will take place in London”.  Inspired choice by Charles Alcock, Secretary of England’s … Continue reading Chapter 24 – England v Scotland →

The day after the paper chase. Thanks goodness today is the day of rest. My Sunday best include waistcoat and jacket buttoned high up my chest; a starched and stiff shirt collar, turning the tips down. The neck tie fixed and my hair middle parted. Fashion options have exploded since Isaac Singer’s sewing machines were … Continue reading Chapter 23 – An English Invitation →

Hampden Terrace overlooks Queens Park Recreation Ground. These beautifully appointed apartments provide the backdrop to our grounds. Saturday 15th October provides a new challenge for us. An eight mile paper chase through the beautiful hills, rivers and fields of Langside and wider Renfrewshire countryside. John and I were elected the hares for today’s battle. Our … Continue reading Chapter 22 – The Paper Chase →

The October wind whistles. Mercilessly pursuing nooks and crannies within our sash windows. Fortunately our merchant delivered a healthy stock of coal this morning. Directly transported from Lanarkshire’s coalfields. Aptly named the “Black Country”of Scotland and is Glasgow’s source of heat to fend off the winter approaching. Our cousins from the Spey Valley are visiting. … Continue reading Chapter 21 – Famous Glasgow Rhyme →

The Grandfather Clock strikes 8 times. I bounce out of bed and throw on clothes. First task is reading the morning newspaper. My paper of choice dates back to 1783. Known as the Advertiser, Commercial Chronicle and now settled on the Glasgow Herald - Scotland’s first daily newspaper. The Franco-Prussian War dominates. I flick to … Continue reading Chapter 20 – Hamilton Gymnasium v QPFC →

Glasgow. The Empire’s Second City. Building ships that keep the Empire conquering the seas and oceans of the planet. Every 5th ship produced in the world is Clyde-built. However the train holds an even greater statistic. An unsung hero in my eyes. Ships capture land and lock their entry. Train opens them up to travel, … Continue reading Chapter 19 – Trains & Ships →

The wall calendar proclaims Tuesday, 20th September 1870. September in Scotland is where the evaluation of the summer is completed. Was there one or not? A few days or one of the finest? Agreement concludes a fine summer where the football has matched it. I fasten on my running and kicking machines. These boots have … Continue reading Chapter 18 – A Family Affair →

Maps make my world, providing a bird's eye view of all landmarks: a guide, companion and comparison. Place two editions side by side, and a story unravels. I pick out my trusty pocket map of Edinburgh and use it to work our way through this bustling metropolis.We meet Mary on Princes Street, a family friend, … Continue reading Chapter 17 – The Foot-Ball Club →

The station fills with steam. Engine whistles play out unique melodies welcoming us to Scotland’s capital. Built on seven hills like the great cities of Rome, Jerusalem, Mecca and Athens. Blackford, Braid, Corstophine and Craiglockart are lieutenants compared to the Generals of Castle Rock, Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat.  Castle Rock is our first destination. … Continue reading Chapter 16 – Honours of Scotland →