Previous to 1874, the interests of the workers in the carpet trade in Scotland were vested in a more or less irregular form of a Trade Union, whose activities were mainly directed by the workers in Glasgow; but with the development of the Trade Union movement in the seventies, several efforts were made by a few enthusiasts to form a regular society. After many futile attempts in this direction, a conference was ultimately held in the St. Mungo Hotel, Glasgow, on 7th March, 1874, when the following attended as representatives of their respective districts— BONNYRIGG.—Mr. John Craig. GLASGOW.—Messrs. John Mitchell, Robert Logan, Thomas Ramsay. GLENPATRICK (Elderslie).—Messrs. John Miller, James McLellan. PAISLEY.—Messrs. James McNaughton, William Findlay. ROSLIN (Mid-Lothian).—Mr. James Armour. KILMARNOCK.—Mr. James Young. Mr. William Findlay, of Paisley, was called to preside over the conference; and Mr. Thomas Ramsay, of Glasgow, was appointed Secretary. After the various representatives had expressed their opinions for and against the formation of a Union on progressive lines, it was ultimately agreed that a Protective and Provident Union be formed, and that members be given the option of joining either for Trade Protection and Sick and Funeral Benefit, or for Trade Protection only, by paying the weekly contribution of 4d. or 2d. per week respectively. It was further decided at this conference that the first Executive Committee be composed of six members from Glasgow, and one each from Paisley and Glenpatrick. Thus we have the origin of the present “Scotch Power Looms Carpet Trade Protective and Provident Association.” According to the constitution of the Association as it then existed, the Executive Committee had the power to appoint its own officials; and on 9th March, 1874, Mr. Robert Logan and Mr. Thomas Ramsay, both of the Glasgow Branch, were elected President and Secretary respectively. At a meeting held on 19th April, 1874, the Secretary intimated that the organisation was proceeding very satisfactorily. Up to this date, 102 members had joined for the full benefits and 83 for trade benefits; Bonnyrigg being the only branch which had not responded to the call for organisation.