Thurso burgh surveyor whose name was recognised at Gillock Park facility
Thurso’s Heritage by a Thirsa Loon
David (Davie) Stewart was a familiar face in Thurso, often seen making his rounds as burgh surveyor, a cigarette dangling from his lips.
Born in Arbroath on October 25, 1917, he followed in his grandfather William Stewart’s footsteps to become a surveyor, arriving in Thurso in 1947 to take up the role he had long aspired to.
His career began with an architectural apprenticeship, followed by a post in Monifieth, Angus, before he moved north, securing both the positions of burgh surveyor and sanitary inspector.
Stewart made Thurso his home, settling at 21 East Church Street with his wife, Jessie Angus Morrison, after their marriage in 1950. But his work was never just about official duties – his deep love for the town was evident in everything he did.
As a founder of the Thurso Town Improvements Association, he devoted weekends and evenings to organising gala week, helping bring the community together in celebration year after year.
His dedication extended to the restoration of St Peter’s Church, where he played a crucial role in overseeing repairs and modernising its facilities.
His passion for service was equally strong in the local scouting movement. Appointed District Scout Commissioner for Thurso in 1960, he spent years as group Scout master of the 1st Thurso Boy Scouts, working tirelessly to establish their headquarters at Riverside.
Even in later life, he remained an honorary president, ensuring that young people in the town had the same opportunities to learn and grow as he had once had.
As burgh surveyor, Stewart was at the forefront of Thurso’s transformation following the arrival of the Dounreay Atomic Energy Authority in 1955. The town’s population tripled within just eight years, placing enormous demands on infrastructure.
He oversaw the expansion of roads, sewers, water supplies, and housing services while also managing the construction of two new pedestrian bridges over the river. Yet, despite his demanding role, he still found time for leisure, captaining both the Thurso tennis and bridge clubs.
In 1967, plans were first drawn up for a “wet weather facility” near Gillock Park, designed by Davie Stewart to provide visitors with a warm, welcoming space. Years later, in January 1973, Thurso Town Council unanimously agreed that the building should bear Stewart’s name in recognition of his lasting contributions to the town and his work in its design.
A few months later, in May 1973, Sir Hector Maclennan, chairman of the Scottish Tourist Board, officially opened the Stewart Pavilion.
Sir Maclennan personally acknowledged Stewart at the opening ceremony. At the same time, Bailie John Rosie, parks and recreation grounds convenor, spoke of the pavilion’s value to tourists and locals.
Over the years, the pavilion became a hub of activity. It provided shelter for campers and caravanners, offering table games, reading areas, television, and refreshments while also serving as a venue for local groups, including the Thurso Bridge Club, Caithness Amateur Athletic Club, and Thurso Yoga Club.
Stewart passed away on December 3, 1977, at Wick, aged 60. The following year would have marked his 30th anniversary with the Thurso Town Improvements Association.
However, time passes, and younger generations will sadly never associate Davie Stewart’s name with the building. Perhaps a simple information panel could restore that connection, ensuring his dedication to Thurso and its people of all ages is never forgotten.
• To get in touch, contact thursoheritage1@gmail.com
