Meadow Park before 1878

This photogravure of Meadow Park House was made by Thomas Annan in the late 19th century, as part of his documentary work on the architecture of Glasgow. Annan’s photographs are a window into the rapid urban transformation of Glasgow during this period. The image of Meadow Park House, a modest but dignified dwelling, gains significance when we consider the text on the facing page. It tells the story of how this property and its surrounding area were consumed by the expansion of the city. The house, once known as Meadow Park, became part of a new district called 'Downton', reflecting the changing social landscape and the relentless march of urban development. Annan’s work and the accompanying text serve as valuable historical records. They underscore how photography can capture not only the physical appearance of a place but also its evolving social and institutional context. Historians and researchers can explore archives, maps, and local records to trace the impact of urban planning on communities.