The Golden Age of Sauchiehall Street: The Crown Halls
In March 2018, a fire ripped through the building which housed the popular Victoria’s nightclub.
The subsequent demolition of the 19th-century structure, removed what had been a significant part
of Sauchiehall Street’s cultural, social, and commercial history.
This important venue, which was designed by H. K. Bromhead (1838-1934), accommodated one of
the city’s long-established and renowned firms of auctioneers.
Founded in the 1840s by John Morrison, the business grew over the decades; was located in
different parts of the city, from Virginia Street to Sauchiehall Street; and, through partnerships,
as well a takeover in the 1970s, had several changes of name, including: John Morrison; Morrison
and Brown; John and James Morrison; Morrison, Dick and McCulloch; Morrison and McChlery;
Phillips in Scotland Incorporating Morrison, McChlery and Co.; then Phillips, Glasgow.
Some of the firms’ history will be covered on this website, along with details of selected auctions.
George Fairfull-Smith, July 2024.