Holmes Mackillop’s History

Article by

Sam Hamilton

Holmes Mackillop’s journey through Scottish legal history is a testament to the firm’s enduring commitment to excellence, rooted in tradition yet evolving with the times.

The story of the firm begins in the late 18th century with William Campbell, a distinguished Solicitor in Kilbarchan. His career started as a legal advisor to George Houston, a Scottish politician who, at the time owned Johnstone castle and the vast surrounding estate, known as Easter Cochrane.

By 1783, as the town of Johnstone began to take shape, Campbell had started his own practice, with his name firmly embedded in the region’s legal records. The turn of the century saw a new generation stepping into play with Campbell’s son joining him in 1799, marking the beginning of a family tradition.

Johnstone Castle – 19th century

The firm moved to Johnstone in 1812, reflecting the town’s growing significance and Campbell’s foresight in relocating his practice to this quickly expanding centre. While originally operating from Collier Street, the Johnstone office has since relocated to William Street, aptly named after the son of George Houston, Campbell’s first employer. With William Street bringing us neighbours such as Craig and Donald Engineers, the world’s oldest established machine tool builders who were founded in 1815, Holmes Mackillop is proud to contribute to William Street’s impressive but unique history.

The Campbell legacy continued to flourish, with William’s grandson, James Campbell, joining the practice by 1817. The practice then took a significant turn in 1831 when John Holmes, a young apprentice with potential and ambition, became associated with the firm. His entry marked the beginning of a new chapter. By 1839, John Holmes had become a partner alongside James Campbell, and the firm’s reputation continued to grow.

Wall plaque in Johnstone commemorating Craig & Donald Engineers

128 St Vincent Street – The original Glasgow office

The mid-19th century saw further expansion as Holmes’ son, Walter Holmes, joined the practice in 1851, and by 1873, Dugald Alexander MacTavish, a promising clerk, had also come on board. The firm, now known as Holmes MacTavish and Fullerton, was thriving, expanding its operations to Glasgow by 1883, under the stewardship of William Pitt Fullerton, a respected Solicitor from Anderston.

The firm’s growth culminated in 1894 with the addition of Frederick Gordon Mackillop, who brought a new dimension to the practice. The firm, now Holmes MacTavish Fullerton and Mackillop, continued to serve the legal needs of clients in both Johnstone and Glasgow, embodying a blend of tradition and modernity. The early 20th century witnessed further transitions, with the firm eventually adopting the name Holmes Mackillop, a title it has proudly held ever since.

Framed letter from Winston Churchill to Edward Mackillop advising of his recommendation

As the firm expanded and evolved, it was home to individuals who made significant contributions beyond the legal field. One such figure was Edward Laurence Mackillop, Solicitor and Banker. Edward served with distinction during World War I, being appointed by Winston Churchill as the Director of the Accounts Department for the Ministry of Munitions. For his exceptional service, Churchill recommended that Edward be awarded the MBE, a recognition of his vital role in supporting the war effort on the home front. A letter from the former Prime Minister to Edward advising of his recommendation is displayed in our Glasgow office, a constant reminder of the values and excellence that we aspire to uphold.

Holmes Mackillop’s history is a rich tapestry woven from the contributions of dedicated professionals over centuries. From its humble beginnings in Kilbarchan to its expansion into Glasgow, the firm, which has since expanded into Milngavie, Giffnock, Bishopbriggs and Prestwick, has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional legal services. Today, Holmes Mackillop stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability, a firm that has successfully navigated the changing tides of the legal landscape while maintaining the integrity and values instilled by its founders. As we look to the future, we do so with a deep respect for the past and an unwavering commitment to upholding the standards that have defined us for generations.

Holmes Mackillop's timeline