William McCulloch was of Highland descent, but lived in Paisley all his life. At one time he wanted to be a lawyer, but instead he worked in the local Parish Council, collecting rates. In his spare time he was interested in amateur dramatics and opera, appearing in a number of comic roles (he was principal comedian with the Glasgow Orpheus Club).

After leaving the Parish Council, McCulloch became a professional entertainer, and for twenty five years he travelled throughout Scotland and beyond, reciting his monologues to hugely appreciative audiences. The monologues were also popular when released on 78rpm records. Some of these are listed below, while the words of three of his most popular performances, The Deputation to the Minister, Mrs Montgomerie's Wee Shop and David & Goliath can be enjoyed.

I don't know of any commercially available recordings of McCulloch material, but I have compiled two CDs from my own collection, consisting of 20 monologues in total, many of them written by Willie McCulloch himself. These are available as MP3 downloads from my on-line store.

Tracks on CD Volume 1: A Clachanstoorie Story; When Agnes Got Married; Agnes Has a "Surprise" Party; The Presentation of Prizes; The Bluebell Chasers F.C. Annual Meeting; At the Pantomime; The Chairman's Remarks; Old Soldiers Never Lie; The Deputation to the Minister; The Provost; Grandfather Tells the Children About David and Goliath

Tracks on CD Volume 2: At the Hospital; At the Pantomime; The Family Album; Pittin' On the Cries; The Baunี Practice; The Picnic Outing; Why the Town Went Dry; Through the Flood; All for Music

William McCulloch Discography and Other Material

This list of McCulloch's monologues is compiled from my own collection of 78s, as well as two 1970s LPs. A more detailed discography including dates, labels, catalogue numbers and matrix numbers can be found at the foot of the page.

William McCulloch Detailed Discography

This discography is compiled from my own collection of 78s, as well as two 1970s LPs and letters from fellow enthusiasts. I would be very interested to hear of any other material relating to William McCulloch (email me).