About Us

Original Company in 1898

Formed in 1898, the 1st Bearsden BB has been a part of the local community for over 100 years. Originally meeting on Wednesday nights, a boy in the nineteenth century 1st Bearsden BB could expect to practice drill for a full hour and listen to speeches about honesty, self-respect, character and leadership. At the turn of the century new activities were introduced, such as gymnastics, first aid and a signalling class. Football matches against Milngavie and picnicking were also regular activities, the latter involving marching from the school at Bearsden Cross, where the Company met, to a nearby farm for lunch.

A flute band was also founded in 1901, although this was changed to a pipe band in 1908, and the Company went on its first camp in 1906. Although the Company has changed over the years, it still incorporates many of its founding features and activities. Drill is still practiced, albeit not for an hour, physical recreation is done each night, boys can still learn about first aid and a wider range of interests, football matches against nearby and more distant teams are arranged and the pipe band still exists.

The annual concert, first seen in 1928, is not only still performed but it is now one of the largest events in the 1st Bearsden calendar. For three nights of the year, the BB Hall is transformed into a theatre auditorium and over 700 people come to see the show. Camps have also increased in stature over time. From the modest first camp to Lamlash, Arran in 1906, the 1st Bearsden has in recent times visited the USA, Denmark and Finland while also camping at places closer to home.

The 1st Bearsden has its own residence, the BB hall at the Glebe Car Park, which is a privileged position for a BB company to be in. It is very much a hive of activity, with an event of some sort usually held each night of the week. An Anchors section meets on Monday nights, band practices (amongst other things) are held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the Juniors meet on Thursdays and the Company Section forms on Friday nights. There is also an Anchors section of the 1st Bearsden BB that meets in Baljaffray Parish Church on Fridays.

The strength of the Company is a reflection of the dedication and support of the boys, parents and the local community and it is this unity that stands the company in good stead for the future.

Links

View the websites of some of our affiliated groups and organisations.

Motto and Object