Henry Shiels "Harry" Bathgate[1] (7 December 1853 – 26 May 1936) was a Scottish vegetarianism and peace activist, as well as a Christian community worker.
Biography
editEarly life and career
editHenry Shiels Bathgate was born on 7 December 1853 in Rutherglen, Lanarkshire[2] and later lived in Mount Vernon, Glasgow.[3] Bathgate became a master plasterer by trade.[4]
Vegetarianism and activism
editIn 1877, after an illness, Bathgate encountered a newspaper article that introduced him to vegetarianism. He was further influenced by the writings of Dr. T. L. Nichols, a well-known advocate for vegetarianism, particularly Nichols' Vegetarian publication in 1898. Bathgate decided to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle, which he maintained for the rest of his life.[4]
Bathgate was actively involved in promoting vegetarianism within Scotland. In 1889, he joined the Vegetarian Society of Glasgow, eventually becoming a key figure in the movement. From 1892 to 1929, he served as the president of the Scottish Vegetarian Society, offering both financial and organisational support to help grow the vegetarian community in Scotland. His efforts were recognised in various publications, such as the Vegetarian (1896).[4]
Personal life
editBathgate was a lifelong teetotaler and non-smoker. His commitment to personal health and abstention from substances was closely tied to his Christian faith, which played a significant role in shaping his worldview. He was actively involved in peace work and Christian Sabbath school activities.[4]
Bathgate married Violet Strathern, and together they had six children.[5]
Death
editBathgate died in Mount Vernon on 26 May 1936.[1] His obituary was featured in The Vegetarian Messenger in July 1936.[4]
References
edit- ^ a b Scotland, National Probate Index (Calendar of Confirmations and Inventories), 1876-1936.
- ^ Scotland, Select Births and Baptisms, 1564-1950.
- ^ "Ronald H Bathgate". Wycliffian Society. Retrieved 2024-10-22.
- ^ a b c d e Gregory, James Richard Thomas Elliott (2002). "Biographical Index of British Vegetarians and Food reformers of the Victorian Era". The Vegetarian Movement in Britain c.1840–1901: A Study of Its Development, Personnel and Wider Connections (PDF). Vol. 2. University of Southampton. p. 10. Retrieved 2022-10-02.
- ^ 1901 Scotland Census. Parish: Shettleston; ED: 20; Page: 33; Line: 15; Roll: CSSCT1901_244.