From Historic Scotland (www.historic-scotland.gov.uk):
Light up the Town at Biggar Gasworks
Biggar Gasworks, the only preserved gasworks in Scotland, is holding an admission-free open day on Sunday 21st October 2012 from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Alison Stalker, Historic Scotland’s Assistant Events Manager said: “When you enter Biggar Gasworks you step right back in time and even the coal barrows and shovels remain.
“Come along and meet the local gasman and find out about his daily routine at the gasworks. Hear about the decline of the industry and its effects on the local community.”
Even though the buildings and equipment have been renewed and replaced down the years, almost everything is there – coal sheds, gas retorts, condenser, exhauster, purifiers, gas meter, holders, the office and showroom.
The office/showroom was once the gasman’s house, built in 1858 and is now the oldest part remaining.
Such was the popularity of gas that the works evolved both to meet demand and to keep pace with technology. The gas holders date from 1858 and 1879, and the retort house and purifying equipment from 1914.
By then, the gasman was using 400 tons of coal per year to serve 320 consumers and power over 100 street lights.
Today, Biggar Gasworks is jointly managed as a visitor attraction by Historic Scotland and Biggar Museum Trust (www.biggarmuseumtrust.co.uk).
Last admission to the Gasworks will be at 4:30 pm.
(With thanks to Paul Spence)
Chris
Scottish Research Online - 5 weeks online Pharos course, £45.99, taught by Chris Paton from 26 SEP 2012 - see www.pharostutors.com
New book: It's Perthshire 1866 - there's been a murder... www.thehistorypress.co.uk/products/The-Mount-Stewart-Murder.aspx (from June 12th 2012)
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