Rutherglen historian, Dorothy Connor, fondly reminisces about the sights and sounds of Hogmanay celebrations from her childhood. For the Connor family, Hogmanay held a special significance as her parents got married on December 31. Dorothy vividly recalls the traditions of cleaning the house thoroughly in preparation for the new year. While some customs have faded over time, such as the tradition of first-footing, new traditions like fireworks have emerged in recent years.
In her recollection, Dorothy paints a picture of the community coming together on Hogmanay in the late 1950s. People would gather on the streets at midnight, listening to the ships on the Clyde sound their horns and the church bells ring in the new year. Families would first-foot their neighbours, sharing food and drink while enjoying poems and songs. Food, a central part of the celebrations, would be prepared with care, including Scotch broth soup, steak pie, peas, and trifle.
Dorothy vividly remembers her role as a waitress, helping to serve food and drinks alongside her brother who acted as the barman. The excitement of the evening, filled with laughter and joy, would carry on into the early hours of the morning. One tradition that stands out in Dorothy’s memory is watching Rikki Fulton’s Scotch and Wry on TV, a highlight of the evening for many families. The festive atmosphere, mixed with a sense of community and togetherness, created lasting memories for Dorothy.
Reflecting on the past, Dorothy shares a poem titled “If Every Day was Hogmanay,” expressing the hope and excitement that the new year brings. She recalls the laughter and joy shared with loved ones, highlighting the special moments that Hogmanay brought each year. Despite changes over time, the essence of celebrating Hogmanay with family and friends remains a cherished memory for Dorothy.
Dorothy’s recollections offer a glimpse into the rich traditions and sense of community that surrounded the Hogmanay celebrations in Rutherglen. The rituals of cleaning, sharing food, and coming together as a community to welcome the new year hold a special place in her heart, illustrating the enduring significance of Hogmanay in Scottish culture.