When the Edinburgh and Glasgow railway opened for passenger traffic in February 1842, it signalled the beginning of the end of a lucrative trade by the Swift barges on the Forth and Clyde Canal. The passage from Port Dundas in Glasgow to lock 20 at Wyndford was conducted entirely on the level and just four locks near Castlecary were required to link with the junction of the Union Canal at Falkirk from whence Edinburgh could be readily reached. The Canal Company withdrew passenger traffic in 1848 but private owners continued a service, initially on the summit level and later to lock 16 in Falkirk. In 1860, the company, Messrs A. & J. Taylor, introduced the steam vessel, Rockvilla Castle, built by Messrs Thomas Wingate & Co., of Scotstoun. She was 60 feet long by 9½ feet in the beam with a 12 h.p. engine. The Taylors gave up the business in 1875 and the Rockvilla Castle was taken over by Mr George Aitken of Kirkintilloch who ran the excursions with the vessel. These proved successful but tragically, George Aitken slipped from the Rockvilla Castle on April 7, 1880 and was drowned, and a year or so later, the sailings ceased.
It was George Aitken’s son, James, who reinstituted the excursion sailings in 1893, with the little steamer, Fairy Queen, built by Messrs John H. Gilmour at Irvine. At Just over 63 feet in length by 14 feet in breadth, she was propelled by a 20 h.p. engine and could carry 200 passengers. Sailing from Kirkintilloch to Port Dundas at 8.25 a.m., she departed for Craigmarloch at 10.10 a.m., arriving at 12.30 pm. She returned at 1.30 p.m. to Port Dundas and then had a further sailing to Craigmarloch at 4.10 p.m., arriving at 6.30 p.m. and leaving for Port Dundas at 6.45 p.m. where she arrived around 9 p.m., thereafter returning to Kirkintilloch.
“Fairy Queen Sailings.—The Fairy Queen yesterday commenced its regular sailings the canal, and the steamer was well patronized. The first evening cruise was announced for last night, with a concert by the Glee Club as special attraction. There assembled at the bridge a crowd of intending passengers who would have filled the steamer five times over. Ere the gangway could be got out a rush was made by the crowd, and Captain Aitken had to start off with only part of the Glee Club on board so to avoid accident. The concert had accordingly to be abandoned. We are authorised to state that there will be no evening cruises this week, but there will one on Tuesday first. Those who wish an enjoyable sail can, however, get the steamer at Kirkintilloch about 5.30 and sail to Craigmarloch, returning before 8 o’clock. The steamer leaves at 8.15 a.m. on her first run each day. Full time tables will be given next week, when the engines have been got into complete order. Meantime the steamer is running very well, and having been newly painted looks even better than on the occasion of the trial trip.”—Kirkintilloch Herald, June 21 1893
“Canal pleasure sailings by new saloon steamer, Fairy Queen, daily, except Saturdays.—Leaves Kirkintilloch for Port Dundas, 8.30 a.m. and 3.30p.m. Leaves Kirkintilloch for Craigmarloch, 12.15 p.m. Allows Passengers about One Hour ashore at Craigmarloch. Leaves Port Dundas for Kirkintilloch and Craigmarloch, 10.30 a.m. Leaves Craigmarloch for Port Dundas, 2.30 p.m. Leaves Port Dundas for Kirkintilloch only, 5.30 p.m. Saturdays only.—Leaves Kirkintilloch for Port Dundas. 8 a.m. and 2.15 p.m. Leaves Kirkintilloch for Craigmarloch, 11.45 a.m. and 6 p.m. Leaves Port Dundas for Kirkintilloch and Craigmarloch, 10 a.m. and 4.15 p.m. Leaves Craigmarloch for Port Dundas, 1.15 p.m. Leaves Craigmarloch for Kirkintilloch only, 7.30 p.m. Fares—Kirkintilloch to Craigmarloch, 6d. Return. Kirkintilloch to Glasgow. 5d. Single. Evening cruise on Saturdays only at 6.—Return fares 6d.”—Kirkintilloch Herald, September 6, 1893
By 1896, the results were sufficiently remunerative to merit a new and slightly larger vessel.
The second Fairy Queen near Kirkintilloch
The second Fairy Queen—and the one illustrated here—was ordered from Messrs Bow, M‘Lachlan & Co., Paisley, and was 65 feet long by 14 feet in breadth, dimensions limited by those of the locks on the canal. She was propelled by a 10 h.p. engine that likely saved on running costs. The first Fairy Queen was sold to Dublin owners.
The new vessel was similar to the old, but she had a deck-house on the promenade deck with a short deck on top, ideal for viewing the countryside surrounding the canal. The steering position was on top of the deck-house, forward of the red, black-topped funnel. She was based at Port Dundas, rather than Kirkintilloch and sailed for Craigmarloch at 10 a.m. during the week and at 3 p.m. on Saturdays. There were evening excursions to Kirkintilloch which was also the destination for a trip on Saturday mornings. Various excursions were available in connection with the steamer. For example, by leaving the steamer at Hungryside Bridge, there was a coach connection to Campsie Glen where the natural wonders could be explored before returning to the canal and catching the steamer on her return to Glasgow. No alcohol was served on board the steamer but the catering department did very well with teas, scones and cakes.
“The Fairy Queen.—This trig little boat is advertised to take up its season’s sailing on the Canal Saturday first. Since its withdrawal in the autumn considerable improvements have been carried out on the steamer. For one thing the deck at the bow has been raised flush with the rest of the deck space, and this has effected a considerable improvement in the appearance of the vessel, besides adding to the comfort of passengers, and economising a little space. The teak railing has been carried right round, giving uniformity of appearance, combined with a smartness that was previously lacking. A railing has been carried round the top of the deck house, and accommodation provided at that altitude for a dozen or so of passengers. Access is got by a stair ladder from the deck behind, and on a pleasant day this extra accommodation will doubtless be taken full advantage of. The refreshment cabin has undergone a complete renovation, besides being extended as much as possible. The raising of the front portion of the deck has allowed of this being done. The pantry has been removed to the front of the boat, and tables placed where it was formerly situated. The pantry in its new position will tend to a prompter and more efficient service in the culinary department. The steamer, from keel to top rail, has been under the painter’s brush, and the result is cleanliness on every hand. The exterior coating of blue and white, the colours which are peculiarly the decoration the Fairy Queen, has been judiciously applied, and Mr Macindoe and his men have in a large measure been responsible for the extremely taking appearance of the little craft. It might also be mentioned that the fitting of the pantry was entrusted to a local joiner, Mr Colin Graham, Donaldson Street, and he has turned out a most workman like and creditable job. The steamer sails from the Townhead Bridge to day with party of invited guests, and to-morrow forenoon a holiday sail will take place to Wyndford Iock. The regular sailings will be commenced on Saturday first, when the boat will leave Port-Dundas for Kirkintilloch and Craigmarloch at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., arriving at Kirkintilloch at 11.45 a.m. and 5 p.m. On the other days of the week there will only be the one run to Craigmarloch, while in the evening there will be resumed the popular cruises from Glasgow to Cadder Woods.”—Kirkintilloch Herald, April 26, 1899
The smoke and grime of Port Dundas and Townsend Stalk
Industry surrounds the canal and Fairy Queen at Firhill
Lambhill and escape to the country
Fairy Queen near Craigmarloch
Evening cruises from Port Dundas to Cadder woods were popular with courting couples
By the turn of the century, the popularity of the Fairy Queen had risen to a point where potential excursionists had to be turned away, and an additional steamer was ordered. Built at Kirkintilloch on the Canal by Messrs P. M‘Gregor & Sons yard at Kirkintilloch, and launched on May 13, 1903, the May Queen was 67 feet long by 15 feet broad. Her accommodation was excellent and a piano on board meant that music became a feature of the cruising. Passengers with musical talent could avail themselves of the opportunity to make a public performance or professional musicians could perform on board.
“S.S. May Queen—There was successfully launched from the boatbuilding yard at the Basin. Kirkintilloch, of Messrs P. M‘Gregor and Sons, on Wednesday afternoon, a sister boat to the present popular canal pleasure steamer, Fairy Queen, and which is principally intended for cruise parties, picnics, Sabbath School trips, etc. The weather was fine, and the launch was witnessed by a good number people, who lined the banks of the basin. The christening ceremony was successfully performed by Miss Ina Alexander, Fernlee, the boat as she left the ways being named May Queen. The new steamer is similar and shape and appearance to the present Fairy Queen, and it is expected that it will accommodate about 200 passengers. The cabins, decks, companions, etc., are of teak. There is also a bridge deck, with seats above, and an awning over the whole. The cabins are tastefully done up, being upholstered all over with polished pannelling of Kauri pine and teak. There is also cruise parties’, purser’s, and Captain’s accommodation, while the tea cabin is large and roomy. The steamer is to be fitted up with a complete installation electric light. The engineers are Messrs Smith and Allan, Pollokshaws, while Messrs Walker Bros., Glasgow, are to be put in the electric plant. The boat is expected to be ready for sailing by the end of the month.”—Kirkintilloch Herald, May 20, 1903
May Queen at the canal bank stop at Cadder
May Queen at Kirkintilloch
May Queen and Fairy Queen near Kirkintilloch
With two vessels at his disposal, James Aitken was able to offer enhanced excursions. On weekdays, the Fairy Queen retained her 10 a.m. sailing from Port Dundas to Craigmarloch, remaining there an hour before returning to Port Dundas where she arrived shortly before 5 p.m. The new May Queen had an afternoon sailing from Port Dundas to Kirkintilloch at 2.15 p.m. from where after a stop of half-an-hour she returned to arrive just after 6 p.m. An evening cruise was available by one of the steamers while the other was available for charter. On Saturdays, again the Fairy Queen retained her morning run to Kirkintilloch followed by an afternoon sailing to Craigmarloch at 3 p.m. while the May Queen sailed in the afternoon to Craigmarloch at 2.15 p.m., returning to arrive at Port Dundas at 8 p.m., earlier than the 9.15 return of Fairy Queen. The near duplication of service to Craigmarloch on Saturdays allowed for the May Queen’s sailings to be cancelled if a charter was scheduled.
May Queen approaching Hillhead, Kirkintilloch
Fares were modest; return to Kirkintilloch was 1/- while the return to Craigmarloch was 1/6d. Catering was also modestly priced; a cup of tea was 2d, scones and pastries were 1d, sandwiches 3d, and tea for two, including bread, butter and pastries was 6d.
The popularity of the sailings on the placid canal with its interesting rural scenery greatly increase to the point where a competitor, Truro Belle, entered in August 1904, but before the end of the season, her owners could not maintain their loan payments and she was withdrawn.
After this, James Aitken’s business developed rapidly. New facilities were opened at Craigmarloch—a new tea-room and dining-hall capable of seating 100, called the Bungalow, together with a children’s playground. A new steamer was ordered from Bow, M‘Lachlan & Co., Paisley and was launched on May 2, 1905 with steam up, ready for the new season that began a week later. The new steamer, Gipsy Queen, was just over 67 feet long by 17 feet in breadth and her 2-cylinder engine provided 10½ h.p. She was a remarkable craft with three decks, a main deck enclosed with a promenade deck above, running the full length of the hull, and above that a “wheel deck,” with the steering platform and seating for 50. The tea saloon on the main deck could accommodate 60, and there was also a ladies’ cabin and crew accommodation on the same level. Her hull was painted light blue with white upperworks and the funnel was yellow, in the manner then current for steam yachts on the Clyde. Her two consorts, Fairy Queen and May Queen soon also had yellow funnels rather than the black-topped red sported previously.
“Launch of the Gipsy Queen.—The launch the new canal pleasure steamer, S.S. Gipsy Queen, took place yesterday from the shipyard of Messrs Bow, M‘Lauchlan & Co., Ltd., Thistle Works, Paisley. There were present Messrs Thomas and Samuel Alexander, ex-Prorost Aitken, Joseph Stark, Esq., Waltry, Messrs Bow, son, and jun., Miss Bow. and Mrs James, Aitken. The christening ceremony was performed by Miss May Aitken. youngest daughter of Mr James Aitken, the managing owner.
“The vessel was launched with steam up, and immediately started on her trial run, the result of which gave complete satisfaction to both owners and builders. Luncheon was served on board, after which a few remarks were made by Mr Bow in wishing success to the new steamer. Messrs Aitken and Mr Stark, in a few sentences, congratulated the builders on the efficient way in which they had completed the Gipsy Queen.
“The new steamer, for comfort, elegance, and accommodation is a distinct improvement on the previous popular boats. It is expected to reach Kirkintillcch to-day between 1 and 2 o’clock, and will placed on the route about the 12th May.—Kirkintilloch Herald, May 3, 1905
The new Gipsy Queen at Firhill Bridge
Gipsy Queen at Tintock
Gipsy Queen passing through Townhead Bridge, Kirkintilloch
Gipsy Queen and the new dining Bungalow at Craigmarloch
At Craigmarloch looking east
Gipsy Queen was placed on a 10 a.m. sailing from Port Dundas to Kirkintilloch and Craigmarloch, where she remained for three hours, arriving back at Port Dundas at 6 p.m. when she was available for evening excursions and charters. With the new facilities at Craigmarloch, Mr Aitken could offer the sail and dinner at the bungalow for 3s. The May Queen sailed in the afternoon at 2.15 p.m. to Cadder and Kirkintilloch where she remained for an hour before returning to Port Dundas at 6.20 p.m. Fairy Queen was the reserve boat, and was sold to owners on the Tyne in 1912.
“Ideal day’s canal sailing—through bonnie Scotland—Forth to Clyde and famed Strathkelvin.—Queen pleasure steamers, Gipsy, May and Fairy Queen, from Port-Dundas every Mon., Tues., Wed., Thurs. and Friday. Morning sail at 10 a.m., and new mid-day sail, at 12 noon, to Kirkintilloch (return fare, 1s) and Craigmarloch (return fare, 1s 6d). 3s sail, with 3-course dinner at new bungalow, 3s. Select afternoon to sail to Kirkintilloch at 2 15 p.m. Delightful evening cruises, Saturday includeded, at 6.30. Cheap return fare, 9d. On Saturdays at 10 a.m. to Kirkintilloch and at 12, 2.15 and 3 o’clock to Kirkintilloch and Craigmarloch.”—Daily Record, August 4, 1905
Gipsy Queen cruising on sunlit waters at the end of the day
Gipsy Queen passing Cadder
Gipsy Queen passing Cadder Woods
Gipsy Queen at Cadder
Gipsy Queen at Shirva
It is hard to appreciate just how popular the excursion traffic on the Forth and Clyde Canal had become. A full day in the countryside with a sail and dinner, musical entertainment on board and a playground to keep the family occupied provided a great escape from the toil and grime of the city. Modest pricing played an important role. Add to that the absence of alcohol and an absence of accidents, and one can envision the appeal. The vessels were one class ships and attracted clientele from all segments of society. Even when the weather did not cooperate, there was plenty of shelter on board and at Craigmarloch although the cruise might be cancelled on rainy days if there was insufficient custom. The evening cruises, in particular, were attractive to courting couples.
In short, it was good value for the money. Fares were stable till the first world war although the combination of the sail and dinner rose modestly from 3/- to 3/6d in 1910.
After the disposal of the Fairy Queen in 1912, the two remaining steamers continued the service even during the first world war. Although the Forth and Clyde Canal was closed to civilian traffic, the two Queens were given a dispensation, reflecting the positive effect they had on morale. In 1917, the May Queen was sold, like the Fairy Queen before her, to sail on the Tyne. And Gipsy Queen continued alone.
Post war inflation saw an increase in prices, the return trip to Craigmarloch rose to 2/6d from the 1/6d it had been since the beginning of the century. With dinner included, the cost was now 5/6d, and evening cruising rose to 1/3d from the previous 9d. Facilities at Craigmarloch were developed with a putting green and with the provision of a barge conversion called the Meadow Queen that provided a dance floor on one level and a tea-room on the floor above. A new 54 foot motor launch named Fairy Queen was acquired in 1923 but never did match the appeal of the Gipsy Queen and was withdrawn in 1931.
Gipsy Queen at Craigmarloch with the Meadow Queen in the foreground
James Aitken died in July 1930, and his son George took over the business.
“Death of Captain Aitken.—The death took place at Victoria Terrace, Dullatur, on Thursday, of James Aitken, owner and captain of the Gipsy Queen. Mr. Aitken, who had not been in the best of health for some time, was a son of George Aitken, who was for many years skipper of the Rockvilla Castle—one of the swifts which in the old days plied as a passenger boat on the canal—and was born at Craigmarloch. He joined his brother, the late ex-Provost Aitken, in the grocery business, and afterwards opened out for himself in Townhead, in premises now occupied by M. Connor. Some 37 years ago he formed a private company for running a pleasure steamer on the canal, when the Fairy Queen was built. Later that steamer was sold, and the Gipsy Queen took its place. For many years he resided at Ashlea, Donaldson Street, before removing to Craigmarloch, and then to Dullatur, several years ago. He took a prominent part in church life, and was an elder in St. David’s Memorial Church. In his younger days he took a lively interest in the Y.M.C.A., and particularly the Debating Society that then existed. He was predeceased by his wife, and is survived by a grown family of one son and four daughters. The funeral took place to the Old Aisle Cemetery on Saturday, and was of a private nature.”—Kirkintilloch Herald”, July 9, 1930
Gipsy Queen at Her Kirkintilloch berth at Townhead Bridge
Townhead Bridge from the East. Gipsy Queen is at her berth on the other side
Changes were afoot. The motor launch, Fairy Queen was disposed of. Sunday sailings were introduced and the Gipsy Queen was licensed to sell alcohol, two features that would not have been permitted by his father. New excursions were offered in conjunction with the pervasive motor traffic of char-a-bancs and buses where Craigmarloch could be reached by steamer on the outward leg, returning by motor coach or vice versa. The business prospered through the 1930s but increasing competition from other forms of entertainment surely had its affect.
“Our popular pleasure service is just right for Glasgow and surrounding districts.—A delightful change from road travel. The sailings: Are convenient and simple to arrange for any class of Party, Office, Shop or Warehouse Staffs; also for all kinds of Society Guilds and Lodges.—Cheap Prices. Good Service. Excellent Catering.
“Terms for evening Cruises—Per S.S. “Gipsy Queen” (Carries 304). Steamer can be reserved for any evening (except Saturday). Return Sail with Tea, 2/- each for guarantee of 120 Adults, any over 120 1/9 each; juveniles under 14 years, 1/3. Sailing Hour, 6.30 or 6.45 p.m. Deposit of £1 when booking (full payment on date of Cruise). Hire of Piano and Pianist, 12/-; Piano only, 7/6. Parties may print and price their own Tickets.
“Saturday Parties with exclusive use of Steamer. Terms are for Guarantee of 120 Adults, Sail and Tea, 2/9 each. Open Dates—May 15, 22, 29; September 4, 11, 18, 25. Sunday Parties. We are open to book Special Parties for any Sunday during the current Season. Apply early for open dates and cheap rates.
“Terms for week-day and Saturday parties.—All-day parties. Sailing from Port Dundas, Glasgow, at 11 a.m.; returning at 6.10 p.m.; some time ashore at Craigmarloch. Cheap Rates for numbers of 20 to 200. With Return Sail, Dinner or Tea. Saturday afternoon parties booked. Per S.S. “Gipsy Queen,” sailing at 2.15 p.m.; returning at 9.20 p.m.; some time ashore at Craigmarloch. Return Sail and Tea 2/9 for number 20 to 100 Adults; Sail with Sandwich Tea, 3/3; or with Cold Meat Tea, 3/9. Tea served in Bungalow on arrival of Steamer. Music and Dancing on Board.—Chocolates, Sweets, Cigarettes, Lemonade, &c., Sold on Board.
“Public sailings—Daily and Saturdays. Steamer leaves Port Dundas, Glasgow, Daily (except Saturday), for Craigmarloch, at 11 a.m.; returning 6.10 p.m.; some time ashore. Return Fare 2/-; Juveniles, 1/-; or All-Day Sail, Dinner and Tea, 5/-; Juveniles 3/6. Saturday and Sunday Sailings at 2.15 p.m.; returning at 9.20 p.m. returning Sail, 2/-; Juveniles, 1/-. Some time ashore. Public Evening Cruises, see Evening Papers and ‘Daily Record.’
“Charabanc or Train Parties catered for at Craigmarloch.”—Gipsy Queen publicity 1937
Gipsy Queen at Kirkintilloch
Advertising 1937
Advertising 1937
Gipsy Queen with a crown on board
In 1939, with the beginning of the second world war, the Gipsy Queen was withdrawn and in June 1940, she was towed to Bowling where she was broken up.
“Gipsy Queen’s last trip the small steamship—Gipsy Queen, for many years famous for its pleasure cruises on the Forth and Clyde Canal between Port Dundas and Craigmarloch, made its last voyage yesterday, when it was towed to a Clydeside yard to be broken up. On board the Queen on her last trip yesterday was Mr. Malcolm Stark, the mate, who was also on board the vessel when she set off in triumph from the builder’s yard 35 years ago.”—Daily Record, June 4 1940
Bowman, I A., “Swifts and Queens,” Stathkelvin District Libraries and Museums, 1984.
Bowman, I A., “The Gipsy o’ Kirky,” Stathkelvin District Libraries and Museums, 1987.