Harnessing Water and Powering Industry
The Molendinar Burn and the Monkland Canal were fundamental to the industrial success of the east end of Glasgow and North Lanarkshire.The Molendinar Burn which rose from Frankfield Loch through Hogganfield Loch passing Glasgow Cathedral and flowing into the Clyde provided the energy supply for Glasgow’s first mills, its distilleries and bleach workshops.
Construction for the Monkland Canal started from the 1770’s. The canal drew water from all seven lochs in the area and was built so that coal could be transported quickly and cheaply from the mining areas of Monklands to the rapidly expanding city of Glasgow Progress was slow, but the canal reached its full length in 1794. By 1830s, the proliferation of ironworks along its route, saw the canal transporting raw materials to the furnaces and collecting the pig iron. Five out of the six main ironworks in Coatbridge were built along the canal or a canal branch.
This theme is brought to you by participants of Glenboig Development Trust youth programme with help from animator, Iñigo Garrido. It was part of Seven Lochs: A History Shaped by Water, supported by Historic Environment Scotland as part of the Year of Coast and Waters 2021.
Exploring water for power
We were tasked to explore the industrial heritage of the park. In groups we researched the history of the Monkland Canal and Molendinar Burn looking at maps, drawing and old stories. Then, with help from fimmaker Iñigo Garrido, we then created an two animations – we wrote the scripts, pained watercolour images and created animation. We even provided narration on the films. Iñigo made a short film of our work which we have shared with you below.