WHILE older readers will remember this Victorian Gothic pile on Bothwell Street, the youngsters will be left scratching their heads.
Let us enlighten you. This was Glasgow Christian Institute, Bible Training Institute and YMCA.
Built over a 30-year period, and employing the talents of three different architects, the whole development was funded by Rutherglen chemical manufacturer, philanthropist and devout Christian James White.
On completion, the building occupied the entire city block between West Campbell Street and Blythswood Street.
Designed in inspire a sense of awe, the building, with its towers, turrets and pinnacles, was actually a bit spooky. The later addition of a red neon 'Hotel' sign, much like on the one on the Bates Motel in the film Psycho, didn't do anything to assuage those fears.
As well as bedroom accommodation, the building also housed a restaurant, sitting rooms, libraries and other facilities for members of the Evangelical movement in the city.
Sadly, as funds grew tight, the building's upkeep proved prohibitive and, sadly, in 1980 the whole edifice was razed to the ground to be replaced by yet another, faceless office block
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