Castlehead Church, Paisley, a connection between Scotland and Ronald Reagan
Castlehead Church, Paisley, Scotland This evening, I am providing information on a closed Presbyterian Church in Paisley S.W. Scotland which, in addition to social and industrial history from the late 18th century onwards, provides direct links to a somewhat incongruous duo comprising Robert Tannahill, a renowned Paisley poet ( 1774 -1810), and former U.S President, Ronald Reagan ( 1911-2004). The church had close connections with the local weaving industry and was active between 1782 and 2010. A summary chronology is as follows:- Opened in 1782 as the West Relief Church, apparently to house the graves of those deemed not qualified to be buried in consecrated ground. A simple but dignified design with lancet windows. First minister, Patrick Hutchison was inducted on May 22nd 1783. Later renamed Canal Street Presbyterian Church and then Castlehead Church. Interior renovated 1881 and Bishop organ installed 1898. Closed 2010 consequent...