Charlotte Knox was able to name the “Unknown” in a photo on May 31 because it was her late dad.
“The trainer you have as Unknown in the North End photo was my dad Jim Paterson,” revealed Charlotte, of Heriotgate, Broughty Ferry.
Charlotte is the wife of the late Dave Knox, former president of Broughty Athletic Junior Football Club, and who worked for many years with Hilti.
In fact, as one of many players over the years who were indebted to Dave’s dedicated work at The Fed, he was affectionately nicknamed “The Hilti Gun Man”.
Charlotte continued: “Dad played junior as well and had spells over the years with other clubs such as Osborne and Violet.
“There’s a quite poignant story about my dad’s father, who is, of course, my grandfather.
“His name was William and he was a slater.
“He died when he was working on the construction of Strathmartine Hospital, and killed when he was hit by a falling slate.
“The ‘poignant’ part of the story is the letter Jim received from his club at the time, Forthill Athletic Football Club.”
The club, “instituted in 1894”, had a ground at Station Park, Barnhill, with their clubrooms situated at 289 King Street, Broughty Ferry.
I haven’t a clue where Station Park would have been.
The letter is reproduced below and it contained the following:
Dear James
On behalf of the committee and players of the above club, I tender our deepest sympathy to you and yours for the great loss sustained in your home.
I got a great surprise when I read it in the newspaper.
It must have been a terrible shock to your mother. I am very sorry for her.
However, these are things we have no control of and I only hope that you will try your best to help your mother to overcome her great loss.
Again sympathising with you all.
I remain yours sincerely D Mayes, secy.
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