Sir John Anthony facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Anthony
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| Born | 9 February 1862 |
| Died | April 10, 1935 (aged 73) Craigton Cemetery, Dumbreck
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| Alma mater | Stewarton Public School |
| Occupation | businessman |
| Title | Scottish Liberal Association (Chairman) |
| Spouse(s) | Agnes McCrae |
Sir John Anthony (1862–1935) was an important Scottish businessman. He lived in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He was the leader of the town of Govan (like a mayor) from 1903 to 1906. Sir John also worked with the Temperance movement, which encouraged people to drink less alcohol. He was also the Chairman of the Scottish Liberal Association, a political group.
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Sir John Anthony's Early Life
John Anthony was born on February 9, 1862. His birthplace was Kirkford, a small place near Stewarton in Ayrshire, Scotland. His father, Andrew Anthony, was a shoemaker, and his mother was Agnes McCrae. John went to school at Stewarton Public School.
Starting His Career
In 1875, when he was about 13, John started his first job. He worked as a "message boy" at Stewarton Railway Station. This meant he delivered telegraph messages. Around 1880, he moved to Pollokshaws for work. By 1882, he moved to Govan, still working for the railway. In Govan, he worked as a cashier, handling money and payments.
Becoming a Business Owner
In 1889, John Anthony became a partner in a company called Cockburn Brothers. This company made iron and steel products in Govan. Their factory was called St James Ironworks. When David Cockburn, one of the brothers, died in 1897, John Anthony became the only owner of the business. He helped the company grow and even expanded it to South Africa.
Sir John Anthony's Public Service
John Anthony also served his community in government. In 1893, he became a "councillor" on the Govan town council. This meant he helped make decisions for the town. In 1897, he became a "magistrate," which is like a local judge.
Serving as Provost of Govan
In 1904, John Anthony was elected as the "Provost" of Govan. This was the highest position in the town council, similar to being a mayor. One of his important duties was to unveil the statue of Isabella Elder in Elder Park in Govan in 1906. He served as Provost until 1908, when David McKechnie took over.
Knighthood and Later Life
In 1916, King George V honored John Anthony by making him a "Knight." This meant he could use the title "Sir" before his name. Sir John Anthony passed away on April 10, 1935. He was buried in Craigton Cemetery in Dumbreck.
Sir John Anthony's Family
Sir John Anthony was married to Margaret Murray. She was born in 1868 and passed away in 1954.
