Ever since the first 'manufactorie' for 'woollens' was started in 1638, Glasgow has been a vibrant centre of trade and manufacturing for the United Kingdom.
Beginning with linens, soap, earthenware, and sugar, it
gradually expanded into ironworks and tobacco. As
its International trade developed it became a centre point for
trade of raw and manufactured goods between the continent and the
Americas. The heart of the historic city of Glasgow includes
the area now know as the Merchant City.
By the 1810's, Scotland's engineers were playing a
leading role in the development of The Steam
Engine, shipbuilding and engineering, so fundamental to this
region of Scotland.
An essential element to the success of Glasgow's standing as a
centre for trade was firmly established in 1812 with the completion
of the deepening of the Clyde River. This huge project - known as
the Lang
Dyke - ensured that large vessels could come straight into
the Broomielaw instead of stopping at the
ports outside of the city. Likewise, between 1768 and 1790
the Forth and Clyde Canal was
constructed. Joining the Clyde at Bowling Harbour the canal linked
commerce and the merchant communities of the East and West of
Scotland together.
Together these significant engineering advances paved the way
for Glasgow to become the Second city of the
Empire.
More on the history of the River Clyde (Back to
listing)