James Duncan Grassick was known in Edinburgh as a champion of the working class, and in particular the blind. Born in Leith, he lived most of his life in the poor inner-city area of St. Leonards. This part of Edinburgh was renowned for its poor sanitation and health record. For example, in 1915, 25% of the monies allocated by Edinburgh Council for “civil distress” were spent in this one ward.
St. Leonards was an area that workers aspiring for better things wanted to leave. But James Duncan was blind – as was his first wife Isabella (Bowie) Grassick – and he had little chance at a time when such disabilities were simply accepted as meaning fewer chances in life. Instea
d, he campaigned on behalf of both the blind and the workers generally. He was chairman of the local ward Labour Party, and in fact stood for election to the council in 1920, losing to the Liberal candidate in a by-election notable for its poor turn-out of 12.5%.
James Duncan was also the Blind Workers Union delegate to Edinburgh Trades Council. Interestingly, his grand-son Harry, and his great-grandson Richard, would both go on to become delegates to their local Trades Council, Harry in Edinburgh and Richard in Darlington.
James’ wife died in a tragic accident in 1907. Blind, she fell down an unattended open manhole belonging to the local Gas Board, who subsequently had to pay around £600 compensation to James, blind and widowed with two small children aged 12 (James Duncan junior) and 10 (Jane McGregor).
Hi James
Very interesting to read your blog
My grandfather grew up in Leith born circa 1895
Joined the communist party
My dad (b1923) was also born and lived in Leith
Both were named Archie Grassick
Wonder if you came across this name in your research
Thanks
Robertgrassick@aol.com
Hi Robert,
I’m sorry I haven’t replied earlier. I’ve been very busy with various other parts of my life lately!
It looks like your family lived in parallel to mine, given the dates of birth of grandfathers/fathers are very close. My father was active in Edinburgh Trades Council, but never mentioned an Archie Grassick (many communists were active in the Trades Council). Have you any idea whether your grandfather was active in any particular field? There may be newspaper articles or similar.
Best wishes
Richard