James Fewell, by Kate Hunter (2003)

10” x 108”

The central portrait in this small mural is James Fewell who became bar manager shortly after the Gothenburg opened in 1908. He managed it for 19 years.

Behind the portrait, an article featured in the Haddingtonshire Courier of December 12th 1908, publicising the opening of the bar and describing the premises inside and out as excellent modern facilities.

2 figures to the left of the central portrait and 3 on the right, were members of the bar staff. A photograph from around 1908 shows them wearing the traditional white aprons, common at that time.

The family group on the left, are Mrs Margaret Fewell, wife of the manager, with 2 daughters, the elder Margaret and the younger, Mary.

Left again shows the “Landlords Cup” containing a false bottom and the dominoes as part of a customary Autumn competition, ending in December with prizes of beef and bottles of spirits.

Gothenburg Stout was for sale along with sandwiches at 1d and 2d.

On the extreme right side we see the beer pumps and a view of the Gothenburg from the outside, along with an example of the gas lighting used in the bar when it first opened.