At Paisley Heritage, we’re dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of our town and its people. Today, we bring you a special interview with Cherine Mack Divers, whose family has a unique and intimate connection to one of Paisley’s most iconic buildings—the Russell Institute. Cherine’s story is one of heritage, nostalgia, and the deep-rooted ties that bind a family to their hometown. Join us as we explore the fascinating experiences of the Mack family and their life within the walls of this historic building.
Paisley Heritage: Today, we’re delighted to share a unique slice of Paisley’s history with Cherine Mack Divers, who has a deeply personal connection to one of the town’s most iconic buildings—the Russell Institute. Cherine, your story is fascinating because it’s not just about the building itself, but about the life your family lived within its walls. Can you tell us about how your father’s childhood was intertwined with the Russell Institute?
Cherine Mack Divers: Absolutely. My father, Peter Mack, spent much of his childhood living in a flat at the top of the Russell Institute. It’s such a grand and imposing building, known for serving as a child welfare clinic for the community. My grandfather, Samuel Mack, was the caretaker there, so the Institute wasn’t just a place of work for my family; it was their home. The stories my father shared with me about his upbringing were full of nostalgia and pride, painting a vivid picture of a life uniquely intertwined with the heart of Paisley.
Paisley Heritage: Living in such a significant building must have been a unique experience. What was it like for your father and his siblings to grow up there?
Cherine Mack Divers: It was quite an extraordinary setting for a childhood. The flat offered views of Causeyside Street below and the surrounding landmarks of Paisley. My father would often talk about watching events like the Orange Walks or St Mirren’s celebrations from the terrace. But what made their childhood truly special was that they had the run of the building after hours. They played football in the shed where mothers would leave their prams during the day, and they explored the building’s many rooms and gymnasiums. While some might have found the Institute’s creaks and shadows unsettling at night, my father always spoke of it with a sense of adventure and warmth. It was a place of comfort and security for them.
Paisley Heritage: It sounds like your father’s stories left a lasting impression on you. How has your connection to Paisley and the Russell Institute influenced your life?
Cherine Mack Divers: Growing up, I was raised in Cairo, Egypt, but my father’s stories of the Russell Institute always made me feel a strong connection to Paisley. I used to visit my grandfather and Paisley once a year, a trip I eagerly anticipated and cherished. In many ways, I feel a stronger bond with Paisley than Cairo, because the heritage passed down through my father is something I hold dear. Now that I live in Paisley with my husband and our three children, it feels as though life has come full circle. My children are growing up in the same town that holds so much of our family’s history, and I hope they too will come to appreciate the rich legacy that is part of their heritage.
Paisley Heritage: Your husband also has a connection to Paisley’s history through his work with the Paisley Heritage page. How does that play into your family’s story?
Cherine Mack Divers: Yes, it’s quite interesting! My husband has been running the Paisley Heritage page for over eleven years now, promoting the town’s history. He often jokes that despite his efforts to be the ‘history guy,’ I seem to have more heritage and connection to the town than he does. It’s a bit of friendly rivalry, but it’s also a reminder of how deeply rooted my family is in Paisley’s history.
Paisley Heritage: It’s wonderful to hear how your family’s history continues to thrive in Paisley today. Finally, what does the Russell Institute mean to you personally, now that you’re living here with your own family?
Cherine Mack Divers: The Russell Institute is more than just a building to me; it’s a symbol of our roots in Paisley. My father’s experiences there, from the ordinary daily routines to the extraordinary moments of childhood wonder, have shaped our family’s identity. Now that I’m living in the heart of Paisley, I carry that legacy with me every day. I’m proud of the heritage that connects me to this town, and I’m grateful for the stories that have kept that connection alive across time, distance, and now, generations.
Paisley Heritage: Thank you so much for sharing your family’s remarkable story with us, Cherine. It’s clear that the Russell Institute isn’t just part of Paisley’s architectural heritage, but a living part of your family’s history.
Conclusion:
Cherine Mack Divers’ story is a powerful reminder of the personal histories that shape our collective heritage. The Russell Institute, once a symbol of community care, now stands as a testament to the memories and experiences of those who lived within its walls. As we continue to explore and celebrate Paisley’s rich history, stories like Cherine’s help us understand the profound connections that bind us to our town. We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey into the past with us, and we look forward to sharing more of Paisley’s heritage with you soon.
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