First World War Poem found in Glasgow kilt

Thursday 24 July 2014

A hidden poem from a Glasgow woman has been found sewn into the folds of a First World War kilt owned by a Southampton academic.

Dr Helen Paul discovered the hand-written message when she was removing the packing stitches from the kilt, which has been passed down her family.

The note is a poem reads:

"I hope your kilt will fit you well,

and in it you will look a swell

If married never mind

if single drop a line

Wish you bags of luck

and a speedy return back to Blighty"

It is signed by Helen Govan, of 49 Ardgowan Street in Glasgow. The London Scottish Regiment kilt was manufactured by Peter Wilson of Bridge Street in Glasgow.

It was destined for a soldier heading to the front during WW1 but for unknown reasons it was never unpacked or worn. Dr Paul said: "It would be fantastic to trace who this lady was and learn more about her history."

Read the full BBC story  -  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-28466800

If you are related to Helen Govan, please contact us on firstworldwar@glasgow.gov.uk to tell us more