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Armadale & District War Memorial Museum, Armadale, Bathgate (2026)

16/06/2026

📜 ItsStory: Armadale’s First Children’s Gala Day – Pretoria Day Celebration 🎉

In June 1900, the fall of Pretoria during the Second Boer War was greeted across Britain with widespread celebration. The capture of the Boer capital by British forces was viewed as a decisive and symbolic victory, and towns throughout the country marked the occasion with patriotic displays, processions, and community gatherings. These celebrations were not only about military success—they were also opportunities to reinforce civic pride and bring communities together.

In Armadale, this led to a remarkable community effort—one that would give birth to a tradition lasting for decades.

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🎈 1900: Pretoria Day (Armadale’s First Children’s Galaday)

The inhabitants of Armadale celebrated Pretoria Day “in a manner befitting the event,” and throughout the week the burgh took on a festive appearance. Determined to mark the occasion in a way that would leave a lasting impression, local organisers arranged a children’s procession under the patronage of the Provost and Magistrates.
Public support was generous. Subscription sheets were widely circulated, raising £37 16s 8d, enabling the committee to provide a full day of celebration for the town’s youngsters.
Around 1,400 children gathered at the Town Hall, before setting out in procession accompanied by the two town bands.

Their route carried them through:
Lower Bathville
Bathville Row
The Cross
West Main Street
East Main Street
North Street
Mossend
Volunteer Field

Despite strong winds and occasional showers, the children marched enthusiastically, cheering and waving their flags along the route.

At the field, each child received a bag of fruit, and the day continued with sports, games, and lively entertainment—a joyful celebration that would leave a lasting impression on the community.

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🌟 1901: The Birth of an Annual Tradition

What began as a one-off celebration quickly became something more. By 1901, the event had firmly established itself as Armadale’s Annual Children’s Gala Day.

That year’s Children’s Day procession was held in delightful weather, a striking contrast to the wind and rain of the previous year. The origins of the celebration were still fresh in memory—“when all the nation was celebrating the entry of Lord Roberts into Pretoria,” the idea of giving the schoolchildren a day’s outing had first been proposed. A small but energetic committee had quickly gathered enough support to provide entertainment for over 1,200 children, and the success of that effort ensured the procession would continue.

The event had grown in scale and popularity:
Nearly 1,600 children took part in the procession
Streets from east to west and north to south were richly decorated with flags—chiefly Union Jacks—and festive streamers.
Large crowds gathered around the Town Hall, creating “one compact mass of people”

At 2 o’clock, the procession began:
The town brass band led the way
Followed by girls marching four abreast, keeping excellent order
Then came the boys, led by the Diamond Jubilee Band
The Boghead/Baelgate Caledonian Pipe Band (as recorded) brought up the rear

The sight was described as one of the largest and most beautiful children’s processions ever held in the county, with almost every child carrying a flag. Their bright faces and spirited marching, set to the music of the bands, made for a truly memorable spectacle.

The procession once again made its way to the Volunteer Park, where careful organisation ensured that around 1,540 children were each provided with an orange and refreshments, before enjoying the afternoon’s games and amusements.

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🏛️ A Lasting Legacy

From its beginnings in the patriotic celebrations of Pretoria Day, Armadale’s children’s procession quickly evolved into a cherished local institution. By 1902, it was already being recognised as an annual event—one “likely to be continued for many years to come.”

✨ And indeed, it was. What started as a celebration of a distant imperial victory became something far more meaningful: Armadale’s own Children’s Gala Day, rooted in community spirit, generosity, and the joy of childhood.

14/06/2026

Museum Object of the Week.

Tunic - 8th Volunteer Battalion, The Royal Scots

The 8th Volunteer Battalion itself traces its origins to the 1st Linlithgowshire Rifle Volunteer Corps, formed in 1860 during a surge of patriotic volunteerism in response to fears of invasion.

In 1888, these local rifle volunteers were formally incorporated into the British Army as the 8th Volunteer Battalion, The Royal Scots, firmly linking local communities to one of the army’s oldest regiments.

The battalion was deeply rooted in West Lothian, with its companies drawn from towns across the county. Notably, C Company was the Armadale Company, based in the town and trained on local ground later known as Volunteer Park.

This strong local identity is reflected in the survival of community connections, where volunteers were recognised and celebrated by their neighbours.

Like many Volunteer units, its men were part-time soldiers who balanced civilian life with military training and annual camps, embodying the spirit of Victorian citizen service.

Made of dark blue cloth, the tunic is richly detailed with red piping along the front edge, cuffs, collar, and epaulettes, creating a bold contrast typical of the period. The epaulettes are further distinguished by grass green Austrian knots and matching green lettering and numerals, signifying the battalion.

Close inspection reveals two period repairs on the left shoulder—subtle reminders of the garment’s service life and continued use. Despite a few small moth nips, the tunic survives in good overall condition.

Inside, a partially detached tailor’s label reads William Millar, West Calder, linking the piece to its original maker and providing a tangible connection to local craftsmanship.

13/06/2026

HisStory - Today, we remember William Angus VC—a miner, footballer, soldier, and hero—whose bravery 111 years ago continues to inspire.

Armadale-born hero of the Victoria Cross, on 12 June 1915, an extraordinary act of courage took place on the Western Front at Givenchy, France.

That courage belonged to William Angus, born in Armadale and raised in a mining family whose story is rooted in West Lothian and Lanarkshire.

William Angus was born at 16 Polkemmet Rows, Cappers, Armadale. As a child the family moved to Carluke, where William left school to work as a miner.

⚽ From the pit to the pitch
Away from work, football played a huge part in William’s life. A talented forward, William played for Carluke Milton Rovers, signed for Glasgow Celtic, later turned out for Vale of Leven, and by 1914 was Captain of Wishaw Thistle.

🎖 Answering the call
In September 1914, aged 25, William enlisted in the 8th (Lanark) Battalion, Highland Light Infantry (Territorial Force). Although Territorials were initially intended for home defence, William volunteered for Imperial Service overseas and was drafted to the 8th Royal Scots on the Western Front.

🔥 Gallantry beyond measure – 12 June 1915
At Givenchy, under intense bomb and rifle fire, Lance-Corporal Angus voluntarily left the safety of the trench to rescue a wounded officer, James Martin, who lay only yards from the enemy. Escape seemed impossible. During the rescue, William suffered around 40 wounds, losing the left eye and part of the right foot. Despite these devastating injuries, William reached a British trench before collapsing.

For this selfless act of bravery, William Angus was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry.

🤝 A lifelong bond
After the war, William Angus VC and James Martin MC both returned to Carluke and became close friends. Every year, Martin sent a telegram on the anniversary of the rescue: “Congratulations on the 12th.”
After Martin’s death in 1956, that tradition was continued by Martin’s brother.

🏠 Life after war
William later ran a haulage business, spent a short time in Australia, and eventually settled in England, working as Master of Works for the Racecourse Betting Control Board. On retirement in 1949, William and spouse returned to Carluke. Known locally simply as “The VC”, William served as a Justice of the Peace and President of Carluke Rovers FC.

💔 Personal loss
Tragedy struck again during the Second World War when William’s fourth child, William, was killed in action in 1945 while serving as a Flying Officer in the RAFVR in Egypt.

🕊 Legacy
William Angus died on 14 June 1959 at Law Hospital, Carluke, and is buried in Wilton Cemetery.

Medals awarded include:
Victoria Cross, 1915 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal, Coronation Medals (1937 & 1953). - These are displayed at the Scottish National War Museum in Edinburgh Castle, alongside the medals of James Martin MC.

Lest we forget.

07/06/2026

🎖️Object of the Week: Thomas Barbour’s Medal Group.

Following on from yesterday’s Museum HisStory post, we’re delighted to shine the spotlight on Thomas Barbour once again—this time through his remarkable medal group.

This set has a story of its own. Around 15 years ago, I first tried to acquire these medals when they appeared for sale on eBay. I watched the auction closely and was winning right up to the very last millisecond… only to be outbid by a “snipe bid” — one of those last-second automated bids that can’t be beaten in time! It became the medal group that got away, and one I always regretted not placing my top bid on earlier.

Fast forward to last Saturday, when my good friend Davy tipped me off that the very same group had appeared on an English medal dealer’s website. Needless to say, I didn’t hesitate—I could hardly press the “buy” button quickly enough! After all those years, it has finally found its way home.

The group consists of:

•Queen’s South Africa Medal with clasps:
Transvaal
Cape Colony
Orange Free State

•King’s South Africa Medal with clasps:
South Africa 1901
South Africa 1902

•1914–15 Star

•Victory Medal

Unfortunately—though not uncommonly—the British War Medal is missing from the group.

This medal set offers a powerful glimpse into Thomas Barbour’s service, spanning the South African campaigns and into the First World War. It’s a tangible link to a life of duty and experience across two significant conflicts.

Sometimes, patience pays off—and second chances do come around.

06/06/2026

✨ HisStory – Private Thomas Barbour ✨

Today we remember Private Thomas Barbour, a soldier of The Royal Scots who served in two wars and gave his life during the First World War.

Born in Barrhead, Thomas long resides in Bo’ness, and later made his home in Armadale, working as an iron moulder. His military service first began during the Second Boer War with the 3rd Militia Battalion, The Royal Scots. There, he spent long stretches manning isolated blockhouses across the South African veldt.

For his service in South Africa, he was awarded:

🎖️Queen’s South Africa Medal – Transvaal, Cape Colony, Orange Free State

🎖️King’s South Africa Medal – South Africa 1901 & 1902

Living with his mother, Mrs Jane Barbour, at 91 West Main Street, Armadale, Thomas rejoined the Royal Scots at the outbreak of war in August 1914. By Christmas, he was already serving on the Western Front with the 2nd Battalion Royal Scots.

In the trenches, Thomas proved himself a steady and dependable soldier. During periods of intense German shelling, particularly from trench mortars, he served as a vigilant sentry. Comrades recalled how, night after night, the enemy would fire mortars alongside star shells, attempting to deceive and catch the defenders exposed. Time and again, it was Thomas who spotted the incoming danger first, raising the alarm and giving his comrades precious moments to take cover. His sharp eye and quick warnings helped prevent casualties, and his actions were recognised as a “smart piece of work” by his officers.

He continued to serve on the front line through the harsh realities of trench warfare until 25 September 1915, the opening day of the Battle of Loos, when he was killed in action at the age of 41.

During that attack, a comrade, Alex Brown, ran to his aid after he was struck by a shell. Even in his final moments, Thomas showed selflessness and courage.
His last words were remembered as: “Don’t mind me, Sandy, just leave me as I am done for.”

He has no known grave and is commemorated on the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, Panel 11.

For his Great War service, he was awarded:

🎖️1914–15 Star
🎖️British War Medal
🎖️Victory Medal

A veteran of two wars, Thomas Barbour served his country with quiet determination—from the blockhouses of South Africa to the trenches of France—watchful to the last, and thinking of others even in his final breath.

Lest we forget. 🕯

31/05/2026

Object of the Week: Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) Cap Badge.

This week’s object is a small item with a very big story behind it — a Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) cap badge that marks the very beginning of a lifelong passion.

When I was a boy, my papa, Peter Cornwall, bought me this very badge at a stall at the Bathgate Highland Games. At the time, it was simply an interesting piece of military history — but he told me something that gave it real meaning. He explained that it belonged to his father, Thomas Cornwall’s regiment, and that he had served with the Cameronians during the First World War.

That single moment sparked a curiosity that would grow over the years into a collection — and eventually help lead to the creation of the Armadale and District War Memorial Museum.

As time went on, I discovered something even more remarkable about my family’s connection to the Cameronians. It wasn’t just one ancestor — it was three:

• Thomas Cornwall
• James Milroy
• George Gordon

All three men served with the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles), All three wore this cap badge.

This simple object represents not only a regiment with a proud and distinguished history, but also a deeply personal link across generations of one family — united by service, memory, and identity.

For me, this badge is more than just a collectible — it is where everything began.

💬 Do you have a family item that sparked your interest in history? We’d love to hear your story.

30/05/2026

HisStory - Remembering Private Archibald Buchanan Clark (1930–1951).

22355669 – Private A. B. Clark, 1st Battalion, King’s Own Scottish Borderers.

Archibald Buchanan Clark — known as Archie — was born on 14 November 1930 and grew up in Armadale, West Lothian. Remembered locally as a popular and well‑regarded young man, he was “held in high esteem” in the community.

Pte Clark was the son of William and Jessie Clark of Armadale.

Before his call‑up for National Service in April 1950, Archie worked as a plasterer with Easton Builders in Armadale. Like many of his generation, his future was shaped by the demands of war.

Serving with the 1st Battalion, King’s Own Scottish Borderers, Archie was sent to Korea in 1951 — part of the United Nations force fighting in what would later be known as the “Forgotten War.”

Tragically, after only three weeks in Korea, Archie was killed in action on 22 May 1951, aged just 20.

He died during a fierce attack at Kumgong, where his company was storming a heavily defended stronghold known as “Ridge 325.” Under intense enemy fire, and just yards from the crest, the soldiers came under heavy attack. Archie was killed by enemy gunfire while advancing on the position, one of several casualties in the assault.

News of his death reached his mother, Mrs W. Clark of 17 Wood Terrace, Armadale, who had already been widowed in 1946. The loss was keenly felt across the town.

Newspaper reports at the time spoke of the “widespread sympathy” for his mother and family, and for a community that had lost one of its own

Archie now lies far from home at:�United Nations Memorial Cemetery, Busan (Pusan), South Korea�Plot 17, Row 10, Grave 806

He is also remembered on a family memorial in Boghead cemetery, Bathgate.

22/05/2026

Today & tomorrow in Leith – Remembering Armadale at Gretna 111.

This weekend, the Armadale & District War Memorial Museum is proud to take part in the Gretna 111 pop-up exhibition, held at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Leith.

Our small display commemorates the men from Armadale and the surrounding district who were directly caught up in the Gretna Rail Disaster of 22 May 1915—a tragedy that struck before many even reached the front line.

Remembering Armadale & District Fallen

Among those we honour are:

Private James Anderson (31) – A colliery worker, husband and father from The Beeches, Armadale.

Private William Thomson Bisset (22) – An engineering apprentice from South Street.

Private Hugh Hart (20) – A young foundry worker who walked 24 miles home to say goodbye to his parents before departing.

Private Walter Mighton (20) – A miner from Blackridge, recorded on the United Collieries roll.

All four lost their lives in the crash and are buried at Edinburgh (Rosebank) Cemetery.

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A Survivor’s Story – Sergeant James Neally, M.M.

Also featured is James Neally, who survived the disaster and later described its horror in vivid detail:

“Then came the awful smash… the train burst into flames… men were thrown in all directions… I would far rather have been out in Flanders.”

James went on to serve with distinction, earning the Military Medal for gallantry. He was killed in action in September 1918, leaving behind a wife and child—his story bridging the tragedy at Gretna and the wider sacrifice of the Great War.

Lest We Forget

18/05/2026

🌍 International Museum Day 🌍

Today, on International Museum Day, we celebrate the vital role museums play in preserving our shared heritage and telling the stories of those who came before us.

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of helping to set up the Royal Scots Museum Gretna 111 pop-up display at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall, alongside fellow Royal Scots Museum Outreach volunteers. It’s a fantastic display that highlights an important part of regimental and local history, and well worth a visit.

I now look forward to being on Museum duty at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall this Friday and Saturday. I’ll be bringing along a small selection of items from my own museum collection, and I’ll be joined by my good friend Davie, who will be displaying some remarkable pieces from his medal collection relating to the 7th Royal Scots and the 8th Highland Light Infantry.

If you’re in the area, do come along, say hello, and take a closer look at these fascinating artefacts.

17/05/2026

🥇 Object of the Week: Civil Defence Medal (1961)

This week, we’re featuring a Civil Defence Medal (CDM) from the collection.

This medal was instituted by Queen Elizabeth II in March 1961 and awarded for 15 years’ continuous service in a range of Civil Defence organisations.

These included the Civil Defence Corps (CD), Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS), National Hospital Service Reserve (NHSR) and the United Kingdom Warning and Monitoring Organisation—all vital services during the Cold War era.

Locally, volunteers from communities such as Armadale played an important role in preparing for emergencies, from firefighting and rescue work to medical support and monitoring potential nuclear threats. This medal represents a significant personal commitment to public service over many years.

The medal itself is distinctive in shape and design. It is an oval silver-coloured medallion, featuring on the front the crowned head of Queen Elizabeth II. The reverse design changed over time: earlier versions show the different service organisations, while later issues simply bear the words “Civil Defence” and “Long Service” within a wreath.
It hangs from a ribbon of dark blue with narrow stripes of yellow, red and green, and additional clasps could be awarded for further long service.

Most of the organisations eligible for this medal were disbanded in 1968, marking the end of an era in Britain’s home-front defence planning. Today, the medal is a reminder of the dedication shown by volunteers who stood ready to protect their communities—including here in West Lothian.

The medal helps to preserve the story of Civil Defence and its local impact.

💬 Do you remember the Civil Defence Corps, or did someone in your family serve? Share your memories with us below.

Armadale & District War Memorial Museum

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