Memorial to Joshua H Wilkinson

Image: © Lairich Rig Taken: 7 Dec 2012

"In memoriam Joshua Hardisty Wilkinson, M.A., a brave and noble son, 3 years war service, R.N.V.R., honours student, Glasgow University, died 14th November 1921, aged 24 years, from injuries received at Ibrox Park when playing against the Rangers F.C." "RNVR": Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. His parents, who erected the stone, are also commemorated in the inscription. Joshua went to Dumbarton Academy, where he played in the school's football team. His subsequent studies at Glasgow University were interrupted by the outbreak of the First World War. Joshua joined the Navy; during his three years at sea, he survived being torpedoed. After the war, he resumed his studies at Glasgow University. He played for Renton Football Club, and then for Dumbarton. In his last match, he was the Dumbarton goalkeeper; after this punishing game (Saturday), he became unwell. On the following Monday, he died in Glasgow's Western Infirmary, after an operation for peritonitis; he had suffered a rupture of the small intestine. The funeral, on the Thursday, was well attended. Those present included senior and past pupils of Dumbarton Academy, the players and management of Dumbarton FC, and others from outwith the area who had come to pay their respects. These events are described in much greater detail by Iain Duff at https://iainduff.wordpress.com/2013/11/19/death-of-a-goalkeeper/ (at WordPress).

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