By Nerys Tunnicliffe of Glasgow City Archives
The opening of Elder Park Library in 1903, with Isabella on the right. Picture courtesy of Glasgow City Archives ISABELLA Elder, wife of famous shipping magnate John Elder, used her wealth to leave a lasting legacy to Govan. She became known affectionately as ‘Lady’ Elder by locals, despite not having an official title. Her husband had served an apprenticeship with local shipbuilder and engineer Robert Napier, and later became a partner in Randolph, Elder and Co. He designed an innovative compound steam engine in 1854 that boosted the fuel efficiency of steam ships and sealed his company’s success. They began building ships in 1860, eventually moving to the Fairfield yard in 1868, as John Elder & Co.