Smudge (People's Palace cat) facts for kids
Smudge was a special cat from Scotland who became quite famous in the city of Glasgow. She was born around 1970 and lived until 2000. Smudge got her job at the People's Palace museum in Glasgow Green in 1979. Her main task was to help with a problem the museum had: too many mice and rats!
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Smudge's Life at the Museum
After solving the rodent problem, Smudge became a much-loved part of the People's Palace. She was so popular that the museum even sold special items featuring her, like ceramic statues made by a famous artist named Margery Clinton.
A Union Member
Smudge wasn't just any cat; she was a working cat! In the 1980s, she became a full member of a group called the General, Municipal and Boilermakers Trade Union. A trade union is like a club for workers that helps them with their rights and working conditions. Smudge joined Branch 29 of this union.
At first, another union, NALGO, didn't want her because they thought she was a "white-collar worker." This term usually means someone who works in an office. But Smudge was more of a "blue-collar worker," meaning she did physical work, like catching mice! So, she joined the GMB union instead.
Smudge's Campaigns
Smudge wasn't afraid to stand up for important causes. She became a mascot, or symbol, for several campaigns:
- In 1989, she helped with 'Save the Glasgow Vet School'. This campaign worked to keep a special school for animal doctors open.
- In 1990, she supported 'Paws Off Glasgow Green'. This campaign aimed to protect Glasgow Green, the park where the museum is located.
A Brief Disappearance
In 1987, Smudge went missing for a few weeks. Everyone at the museum and in Glasgow was very worried. Many people helped look for her, and there were lots of appeals, even from the Lord Provost of Glasgow (who is like the mayor of the city). Luckily, Smudge was found and returned safely to her home at the museum.
Moving On and Legacy
Smudge left the People's Palace in 1990. This happened when Elspeth King, the museum's curator (the person in charge of the museum's collections), also left. Elspeth went on to become the director of the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum in Stirling. Guess what? Smudge was called upon again to help with a rodent problem there too!
Smudge passed away peacefully at her home in 2000 after being sick for a while. To remember her, a special plaque was placed at one of the entrances to the People's Palace. It reads:
Sister Smudge
(c 1970 – 2000)
was a much loved employee
of the People's Palace
and the only cat to be a full
member of the GMB Union
Smudge is remembered as a unique and dedicated cat who was a true part of Glasgow's history.
