Many thanks to Michael Rogerson, Licensee of The Horse Shoe for the historical data he supplied..
19th – 20th Century
The pub (we’re not sure what is was called then) opened in 1846 when William Turnbull, a spirit dealer, occupied the premises. Between 1846 and 1884, the licence changed hands several times.
On 17th June 1884, the licence and premises were bought by John Scouller. Mr Scouller completely refurbished the premises and renamed it to The Horse Shoe Bar. He also had other Glasgow pubs, all named in relation to horses, such as the Spur bar in Polmadie Street and the Snaffle Bit in Howard Street.
During Mr Scoulers time at the Horse Shoe, one of his employees, John Young Whyte, after working for many years in the bar, became manager, then eventually bought the pub in 1923. John Young Whyte also owned the Cecil Bar in Renfield Street and the Union in Union Street. He continued adding horse themes to the bar and the upstairs area where the clock, photos, tables and every item of furniture had a horse motif.
Other well known managers over the years were John Thomson and James MacKenzie. John Thomson, completed forty-eight years at the Horse Shoe after, coming to Glasgow in 1890 to work with Mr. Scouller. He took over the Spur Bar when Mr Scouller died and in 1930 he took over the Snaffle Bit.
James Mackenzie spent fifteen years in the Horse Shoe in the 1920’s and when John Young Whyte took over the Union Bar, he moved on to there.
Managers of The Horse Shoe Bar
Jimmy Rowan
Started in The Horse Shoe in 1941
Retired in 1981 after 40 years service
John Watson – 1982
Linda Brown – 1983
Dave Smith – Manager 1983 to 2003
Dave Smith and son Mark – 2003 to 2009
August 2000 – with FRAN HEALEY from Travis with his BRIT AWARD
On taking over as manager of The Horse Shoe, Dave increased the turnover by eight, won Grouse Manager of the Year, Tennent Caledonians pub of the year award twice, Innkeeper of the Year regional award and Pub of the Year 2001.
David is well known for letting the pop group Travis use the upstairs practice room as well as many Glasgow karaoke singers such as Garry Mullen (Freddie Mercury)
Michael Rogerson – 2009 to present
The Horse Shoe now appears to be in excellent hands with Michael actively ensuring that the unique facets of The Horse Shoe have been retained and in some cases restored to their original condition.
… and of course the regular staff, many of whom have been with The Horse Shoe for a considerable number of years.
Many thanks Carol – for drawing me hundreds of pints of Black sheep and Bitter & Twisted over a fair number of years.
