"Dr. JAMIESON was the first person who introduced the umbrella
into Glasgow: this was in the year 1782. He brought it from
Paris, and when he commenced unfurling it on our streets, crowds
of people followed him in amazement at the spectacle. "About the
year 1786 an attempt was made to manufacture umbrellas by Mr.
John Gardner, father of the Mr. Gardner, optician. I have had in
my hands; writes ‘Senex,’ ‘the first umbrella that was ever made
in Glasgow. It was indeed a very clumsy article. The cloth was
heavy oil or wax-glazed linen, and the ribs were formed of
Indian cane, such as shortly before this time ladies were
accustomed to use as hoops to extend their petticoats. The
handle was massy and strong, and altogether it was a load to
carry.’ "Mr. Gardner was obliged to give up his manufacture, as
the Manchester people had been able to make a lighter article,
and at a cheaper price."