From weavers and poets to inventors and faith leaders, Renfrewshire’s history is filled with interesting and brave characters who had a profound impact on the world.
Community researchers from Renfrewshire have found stories of people that they want to celebrate and have written their biographies.
You can enjoy reading them below.
A giant in the field of civil engineering, depicted on a national bank note. An illustrious life started very humbly in Renfrewshire.
Ever heard of Mrs Barbour's Army? This working-class mother led a famous rent strike and fought for tenants' rights.
Held in high regard in his chosen field as a sports car racing driver and Formula 1 competitor, but today his name is not widely known.
Often referred to as “Black Peter”, this freeborn African-American made Paisley his home for over sixty years from the late 18th Century.
John Campbell was born as ‘Marie’ or ‘Maria’. We don’t know much about their early life, such as where or when they were born.
The missionary Jane Haining was one of the only Scots to be killed by the Nazis in a death camp during WW2.
The inventor of Robertson's Marmalade!
Perhaps less well-known than “The Weaver Poet” Robert Tannahill, Ebenezer Picken was deemed the “Poet of Paisley.”
His story began in Renfrewshire where he was born and there are several versions of the story surrounding the circumstances of his birth.
A major figure in the "Celtic Revival", this poet, novelist, literary biographer and critic was born in Paisley.
This Paisley minister and Princeton president was one of the founding fathers of the newly-independent United States of America.
Explore the history and heritage of Renfrewshire's towns and villages. Delve deep and find out more about their unique stories.
Our unique story is shaped by our people and places. We’re writing new chapters every day.
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