The following article was published by Eddie McRorie on 11th May 2025 on the Johnstone History Facebook page and is reproduced here with his kind permission.

Opening of the Johnstone New Gas Holder in 1891

On 5th November 1891, Provost Armour had the honour of formally opening the new Burgh of Johnstone gas holder.

The Johnstone Gas Works had opened in 1875 at a cost of over £22,000 and had fully supplied the town’s needs since that time. However, due to the expansion of the town’s industry and population, there were several occasions during the winter of 1890 when the gas supply was nearly exhausted. The new gas holder, with a capacity of 125,000 cubic feet, brought the total gas storage capacity to 201,000 cubic feet.

Ex-Provost Donald gave a vote of thanks to Provost Armour, after which the company adjourned to the Burgh Buildings where dinner was served.

Among those present were Major Houstoun, Major Shanks, ex-Provosts Stevenson and Donald, Bailie Fyfe, Bailie McKean, Mr. McGilchrist (Gas Manager from Dumbarton), ex-Provost Meiklejohn, Mr. William Reid (Town Clerk), the Rev. H. Gemmill, and Mr. J. R. Stirling (Burgh Treasurer).

Provost Armour offered the usual loyal and patriotic toasts, which were warmly received. This was followed by additional toasts, including one to the “Lord of the Manor,” Mr. George L. Houstoun.

(In his reply, the Laird took the opportunity to express certain public concerns.)
Mr. Houstoun replied that he did not entirely agree with those who believed that Johnstone should continue to expand. He did not consider the town prosperous merely because it was large. A town, he said, was truly prosperous when it was well equipped with all that made life pleasant and happy for its residents (applause). What was needed, perhaps, was a little more public spirit and a little more self-denial on the part of some individuals in order to promote the town’s interests and prosperity. Citizens, he added, might do more to keep the town neat and tidy.

A presentation followed by the contractors of two bronzes in the shape of lamps. Further toasts were given, and the proceedings concluded.

Close-up picture – Danny Chestnut
Aerial view – Gerry Kavanagh

View of the gasworks from the North

View of the Gasworks to the west of Lang's Works