A new mural has been officially unveiled in Govan in tribute to Victorian philanthropist Isabella Elder.
Commissioned by Elderpark Housing to celebrate its 50th anniversary, the mural honours Elder’s enduring legacy in the Glasgow community.
The artwork, created by well-known artist Rogue One, was revealed during a ceremony at Langlands Court, just off Langlands Road and directly opposite Elder Park, one of Elder's most significant contributions to the city.
The mural was officially unveiled during a short ceremony attended by Govan councillor and deputy leader of Glasgow City Council Ricky Bell, Elderpark Housing management committee members, staff and local residents.
Gary Dalziel, chief executive of Elderpark Housing, said: "Isabella Elder left a long-lasting legacy to the people of Govan and beyond which still resonates today.
"As we looked more into her history you recognise how outstanding her contribution was to Govan and Glasgow.
"It is entirely fitting climax to our 50th anniversary year that we recognise the impressive contribution of an exceptional woman to the wellbeing of our community more than a century ago."
Elder, often referred to as the "First Lady of Govan," was the wife of shipping magnate John Elder.
She used her considerable wealth to improve life in Govan through education, healthcare and public spaces.
In 1885, she gifted 37 acres of land for what would become Elder Park and went on to fund the creation of schools, hospitals and other community resources.
Elder was also a pioneer in women’s education, with the Isabella Elder Building at the University of Glasgow standing as a testament to her advocacy for opportunities for women in higher learning.
The new Govan mural features Elder’s profile set against the backdrop of Elder Park Library, which she helped bring to life in 1903 with a donation of £10,000.
She also contributed additional funds for the library’s upkeep and insisted it open on Sundays so working people could access literature in their free time.
Rogue One, the artist behind the mural, said: "It was an honour being asked to do the mural.
"Not only did I enjoy painting the piece, but also looking into Isabella Elder's history and taking a walk in the park and visiting the library.
"The locals in the area were especially nice too.
"Thank you to everyone."
Colourful red roses, a prominent feature of the mural, reference the much-loved rose garden in Elder Park.
Heather St Clair, a resident who lives in the building now home to the mural, said: "This is a wonderful and very impressive piece of artwork which celebrates the history of Govan and its strong identity."
The mural is intended to enrich the Govan Mural Trail and Glasgow’s broader mural movement.
It is designed to be a lasting piece of public art that reflects Elder’s commitment to community and culture.
Elder’s legacy is also commemorated by a statue in Elder Park, one of the first statues of a woman in Glasgow.
