Howden Hume

Howden Hume was educated at Kelvinside Academy and Glasgow University, before joining James Howden and Company, the Glasgow engineering company founded by his uncle in 1854. The company grew from humble beginnings into a major public company during Hume’s time with them. In his early days Hume oversaw installation of company products all over the world in countries like Australia, China and South Africa. He was appointed a director in 1929 and became managing director in 1934. He took over as chairman from his brother Crawford in 1963 and held the post until his retirement in 1973. Over the years Hume was responsible for setting up worldwide subsidiaries.

A keen yachtsman, Hume took part in many America’s Cup races on both sides of the Atlantic between 1934-52. Before World War II he was responsible for introducing the popular International Dragon Class into Britain. Hume was Commodore of the Clyde Corinthian Yacht Club and was also a member of the Mudhook, Royal Northern, Royal Clyde and Royal Thames Yacht Clubs. He also served on the council of the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) for many years. His son Douglas was a member of Hume’s crew aboard Johan in the 6-metres class at the 1948 Olympics.

Hume was a keen salmon fisherman in his spare time, and in 30 years fishing on the River Spey, he kept a detail of all his catches, totalling more than 550. His brother in law was M. T. “Morty” Dykes, a Walker Cup golfer, and winner of the 1951 Scottish Amateur Golf Championship at the age of 46.