Discover the Retro Charm of This Glasgow Department Store from the 70s
When discussing late, great Glasgow department stores, R W Forsyth’s on the corner of Gordon Street and Renfield Street stands out as a true gem, according to a man who worked there. Stuart Abernethy, who worked in the store’s hair salon 60 years ago, fondly recalls the unique charm of Forsyth’s, likening it to the iconic 70s sitcom “Are You Being Served?”.
Reminiscing about his time at Forsyth’s, Stuart shares, “I worked for Baxter Sturrock in the hair salon at Forsyth’s from 1962 until 1969, when I moved to Bermuda, and then I came back after a year to manage it for a while.” The store, with its old-world charm, left a lasting impression on Stuart, who still owns a suit tailored for him at Forsyth’s over 60 years ago.
“I felt, working in Forsyth’s, that I just had to have a quality suit. I had two fittings, and finally received the finished article, a quality of garment not seen today,” Stuart reflects. Despite the passage of time, the suit still fits him, a testament to the craftsmanship and quality upheld by Forsyth’s.
As Stuart plans to pass down the suit to his niece, who collects vintage clothing for her work in film and television, the legacy of Forsyth’s lives on through the memories and stories shared by those who experienced its unique atmosphere.
### The Legacy of R W Forsyth’s
Established in 1872 as a hosier, glover, and shirtmaker, R W Forsyth’s quickly grew to become one of Scotland’s oldest and best-known department stores. By 1897, the store had expanded to occupy six floors in Glasgow city center, earning a reputation for quality fashion, school uniforms, and exceptional customer service. The store’s presence in both Glasgow and Edinburgh cemented its status as a beloved institution among shoppers.
Describing Forsyth’s as a symbol of quality and service, Jack Webster wrote in The Herald in 1981, emphasizing the store’s reputation for solid worth and enduring excellence. However, like many iconic establishments, Forsyth’s faced changes over the years, eventually leading to its relocation to Treron’s store on Sauchiehall Street and the subsequent evolution of its identity.
### Memorable Moments at Forsyth’s
Recalling his time at Forsyth’s, Stuart shares anecdotes that highlight the store’s unique character and the interactions with its customers. From a young window dresser’s misstep in creating a controversial display to the store’s dedication to upholding traditional values, each story adds to the colorful tapestry of memories associated with Forsyth’s.
Reflecting on his journey from a young stylist to an area manager overseeing multiple salons, Stuart’s career trajectory showcases the opportunities for growth and learning that Forsyth’s provided to its employees. The store’s commitment to excellence in service and product quality shaped Stuart’s professional development and laid the foundation for his successful career in the beauty and fashion industry.
### The Enduring Legacy of Forsyth’s
As Stuart fondly recalls his time at Forsyth’s and the impact it had on his life and career, the nostalgia for the Glasgow department store from the 70s remains palpable. The stories shared by former employees and loyal customers serve as a testament to the lasting impression left by Forsyth’s on the community and the city’s retail landscape.
Whether through the preservation of a vintage suit crafted by skilled tailors or the fond memories of interactions with customers and colleagues, the retro charm of R W Forsyth’s continues to captivate those who experienced its unique atmosphere. As Glasgow evolves and modernizes, the legacy of Forsyth’s serves as a reminder of a bygone era defined by quality, service, and timeless elegance.