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Monument of the Month

Do you have a favourite archaeological site or monument? Why not tell us about it! Send us a photograph of your favourite site, together with a short description, and we'll display it on this page.

December 2011

Site Name: Larkhall, Gallowhill Road, Robert Smillie Memorial Park Gate
Site Type: Gate; Memorial
SMR Record: WoSAS Pin 41430

Later 19th century. Gateway to Robert Smillie Park comprising point arch to centre with crenellations above; circular-plan crenellated towers to each side with segmental-arched pedestrian gateways at base and trefoil motif; low crenellated walls flanking with blind slits, with low crenellated circular-plan terminals. Stugged cream sandstone ashlar with polished central arch ring and dressings. Marble commemorative plaque to left hand tower.

Originally an entrance to Broomhill with lodge adjacent (as shown on 1897 OS map). The park was dedicated to Robert Smillie and was opened on the 8th June 1957. Robert Smillie spent 15 years working in the Larkhall coal mines and was a famous personality in the area, in his latter years becoming an activist for the rights of workers. He became an agent for the Larkhall miners and President of Lanarkshire Miner's County Organisation. He then went on to become the President of the Scottish Miners' Federation and the chairman of The Scottish Union Trades Congress, among other influential posts. Along with the better known Keir Hardie, he was instrumental in forming the Independent Labour Party.
Derived from HS Listed Building Data