Mural

Purdon Street, Partick, Glasgow

Molly Hankison, Visual Artist, website

The mural is titled “Big Rachel”, created in 2022 by Glasgow artist Molly Hankinson as part of the Yardworks GRID programme. It sits at 39 Purdon Street, beside Partick Library and close to the Partick Community Growing Project.

It replaced an older mural from the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

The artwork celebrates two women from Partick, one historical and one contemporary:

“Big Rachel” Hamilton (Rachel Hamilton)

An Irish immigrant living in Partick in the 1800s

Known locally as “Big Rachel” because she was around 6ft 4in and worked as a shipbuilder — a strikingly unusual role for a woman at the time

Remembered as a strong, formidable figure in the community

and

Margaret Thomson

A beloved local figure who ran the ukulele club at the Partick Annexe

After her passing, mourners were given red stars at her funeral — a detail included on the mural as a tribute

Symbolism in the mural

The mural is rich with botanical imagery, all chosen through community consultation:

Scottish bluebells (unofficial national flower)

Tulips and sunflowers (grown in the nearby community garden)

A runner‑bean beanstalk climbing the gable

These elements reflect the Partick Community Growing Project, which sits just behind the mural.

One figure on the wall — but inspired by two women

According to the artist, Molly Hankinson, the mural’s single depicted figure is a composite, drawing on qualities and stories from two different Partick women:

Why the red star?

At Margaret Thomson’s funeral, mourners were given red stars. The artist included one on the vest as a subtle tribute.

Why the flowers and plants?

These were chosen by the Partick Community Growing Project and the Dreams and Aspirations group at the Partick Annexe.