THE NEILSLAND MONSTER.

Extract from The Times, July 27th, 1934.

THE NEILSLAND MONSTER.

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In Torhead Loch situated on Neilsland Estate near Hamilton, in Lanarkshire, there is a monster akin to that of Loch Ness fame. This animal was first sighted by Mrs. Jack while riding round the shores of the Loch early in May this year.

The Beast made a ferocious attack and Mrs. Jack fearful for the welfare of herself and her mount, speedily fled away, she being a horsewoman of great repute in the shires.

The monster was not reported again until Yesterday, when Major Watson was able to photograph it (reproduced on page 18) . The beast appeared quite docile on this occasion which may be accounted for by the fact that on July 25th, a cart drawn by two shire horses mysteriously disappeared while engaged in the neighbourhood of the Loch, and there is no doubt that the animal by now only partially digested his unpalatable feed of that day. May it be said that the cart contained a large quantity of timber at the time of its dis-appearance.

At the time of going to press the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries have engaged a fleet of aeroplanes to convey themselves and many ministers of the Cabinet to Hamilton, at dawn to-morrow, to determine the species and investigate the habits of the monster.

Mr. Watson interviewed by our representative this evening, said that accommodation was being prepared by Mrs. Watson in their home, where the whole party would be their guests. His own office, situated within a stone’s throw- The Swiss Cottage -would be placed at the disposal of the members of the Cabinet, while the Scout’s Hall, a palatial room at Woodhead, would serve the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries.

The Lodge field, with suitable sheds already erected for the host of ‘planes, would act as a landing ground. Mr. Mitchell, with his staff, in conjunction with the Post Office Officials, are employed at present in laying a private line to Westminster, so that the work of the State will not be jeopardised during the Cabinet’s sojourn in the North.

Hamilton Historian. Terence (Terry) Murphy.

Holding the original document: The Neilsland Monster.

Transcribed And Published By

Hamilton Historian.

Terence (Terry) Murphy.

Ref; This historical urban legend was written and created by Jeanette (Watson) Jack c. 27th July 1934. A special thank you goes to Louise Jack (Jeanette’s Granddaughter) for gifting the document to me!

Earnock Cottage c. 1963 Approx.

The above photo of Earnock Cottage was taken around the time Woodfoot Road was widened during c. 1963 approximately. It was taken by and credited to Michael Burrows who lived there between 1960-1965.

The Grade B British Listed Building is attributed to William Leiper Architect c. 1892 and was built for John Watson of Earnock, who later became the 1st Baronet for the area. The purpose for the building on the estate is unknown but it was most likely intended to be used as a holiday home for the Belhaven Family as it was originally called ” Belhaven Cottage ” as listed on historical maps and within Sir John Watson’s journals.

Sir John Watson Bt’s 3rd Daughter was married to James Hamilton the 9th Lord Belhaven and these two men were close friends as well as business associates. The cottage is located at 56 Woodfoot Road, Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, ML3 8RA and is a private residence.

Written By

Hamilton Historian

Terence (Terry) Murphy.

ref; The Photograph is credited to Michael Burrows who lived at the cottage 1960-1965.

Paul McCallum Funeral Details.

Paul’s remains will be brought back to the family home at Westwood Crescent on the night of Wednesday 16/10/2019, For anybody who wishes to visit. A Rosary will be held at the family home on Thursday 17th approximately 4:45pm/5pm. A procession will then follow from the house to St Peter’s Chapel where he will be accepted at 6pm. The Funeral will be held on Friday 18th at 10am at St Peter’s RC Church. He will be laid to rest thereafter at the Bent Cemetery. The reception meal venue afterwards has yet to be finalised and will be announced after the service. The family would like to thank everyone for the lovely comments, flowers and cards and those who have visited so far!

R.I.P.

Paul McCallum.

Written by

Hamilton Historian

Terence (Terry) Murphy.

R.I.P. Paul McCallum.

Just received very sad news earlier tonight from my Godmother Liz McCallum that her son (my younger cousin) Paul McCallum sadly passed away today at 11:50 am at the family home. Paul was only 35 years old. He had been unwell since early April of this year.

Paul was a quiet good-natured lad who worked as a landscaper and in his spare time enjoyed a beer with friends supporting his favourite football team Celtic. He will be sadly missed. Funeral details will follow in due course. My thoughts and prayers go out to Liz and the family at this very sad time! R.I.P.

Left to right Paul Murphy (My Brother), Myself and Cousin Paul McCallum R.I.P.

Written By

Hamilton Historian

Terence (Terry) Murphy.