Steam power
By the late 19th century Scotland was one of the world's major
suppliers of railway equipment. As many as 58 companies built
railway locomotives, with the main centres in Glasgow and
Kilmarnock.
The mighty steam locomotive Ellesmere, built in 1861 by
Leith Engine Works, dominates the gallery, but model train
enthusiasts will love our working models too, from the
first locomotive built in Scotland to the double-ended Fairlie
engine built for the Mexican Railways in 1903.
Whisky galore
Whisky distilling has a long history in Scotland, but expanded
as an industrial process in the 19th century (Case 4). It became an
extremely valuable export and source of tax revenue.
Don't miss the vast copper spirit still from the Glenfiddich
Distillery in Dufftown.
Shipbuilding
Of all Scotland's big industries, shipbuilding is perhaps the
best known. In the 19th century the focus of Scotland's overseas
trade shifted to the west coast, and the lower reaches of the River
Clyde saw increasing activity in making ships. In the transition
from wooden sailing ships to iron and steel steamships, Clyde
builders and engineers were world leaders.
Over the decades many hundreds of ships were built, from tugs
and dredgers to huge passenger liners and warships. In 1867, 234
vessels were launched from 37 Clyde shipyards. The ship models
displayed give a glimpse of some of this huge activity.
Made in Scotland
A huge range of other products played a part in Scotland's
industrial success. Made in Scotland looks at just a few of them.
Engineering, papermaking, printing and bookbinding, the
chemical industry, glassmaking and heavy ceramics all
flourished.