John Black, Provost of Greenock, 1898-1901

On the day Mr Black died, 23 September 1901, the Greenock Telegraph wrote:

“In the removal of Provost Black, Greenock has lost an esteemed citizen, and one who has long figured prominently in the affairs of the town.

It is given to few men to be privileged, as he was to serve the public at such an advanced age, and his demise although it had not been unexpected, will cause a deep feeling of regret throughout the community. Until a comparatively recent period, he enjoyed excellent health, and his tall, well-set, robust figure was for years one of the most familiar to be seen on our streets.

Mr Black, who was born in Greenock on 3 July 1821, came from a long established local family. His great grandfather had been harbour master at Greenock and his grandfather was a well known Clyde shipmaster.

Mr Black’s father was a solicitor with an office in Cathcart Street and his son entered the same profession. Joining his father in partnership in 1842, the firm became known as John Black & Son, and continued under that title until 1859, the year in which Mr Black senior died. The business after that was carried out by Mr Black for a quarter of a century during which he gained a foremost position at the local bar.

In 1884 he assumed his son, George Hedger Black, as a partner. This connection lasted until 1892, when he handed over the practice to his son, who three years later was joined by Bailie John Cameron, the firm now being known as Messrs Black & Cameron.

Mr Black entered the Town Council somewhat late in life. In November 1887 he was elected as one of the representatives of the Eighth Ward, and on 10 November 1899 was unanimously appointed  Provost.

He had been one of the oldest members of Lodge Greenock St John’s No 175, and had served as its secretary. His brother, Patrick McNaughton Black, was a past master of the lodge.”