This colour photograph shows a view of the Empire Exhibition from the south, looking up the hill over the South Cascade to the Garden Club and the Tower of Empire. It was a condition of the lease of Bellahouston Park from Glasgow Corporation that the trees on the hill should be undisturbed.
Designed by Thomas P Marwick, the Garden Club occupied a prominent position overlooking the site. The restaurant was enclosed by glass windows, and a glass cocktail bar was nearby. There was a tea garden on the roof. Membership was open to all, but the subscription of five guineas proved a deterrent to many.
The Tower of Empire, popularly known as Tait's Tower, came to symbolise the Empire Exhibition. It was built of Scottish steel, set in a concrete base. 300 feet high and sited on a hill, it dominated its surroundings, particularly when lit up at night. An electric lift carried visitors up to the three balconies which served as viewing platforms.
Reference: Mitchell Library, GC 606.4 (1938)
Reproduced with the permission of Glasgow City Council, Libraries Information and Learning
Keywords:
bars, Bellahouston Park, Empire Exhibition, Empire Tower, exhibitions, Garden Club, Glasgow Corporation, North Cascade, restaurants, Tait's Tower, tea gardens, trees
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