There is little information available about the construction of the original keep, but it is assumed that it was built for defensive purposes rather than comfort, based on the similarity to the construction of other facilities of that time which was around 1200 AD. Sometime around 1581, David Boyle enclosed the original keep with a much larger and grander castle complex. This marked the emergence of the family’s start to power in the local community.

However, the 17th century proved to be troublesome for the Boyles and they obtained their wealth through ship building and shipping. Later, the family heavily relied upon the public service aspect of the community, especially when trying to put a stop to smuggling. John Boyle, the ruler in the 17th century, became the father of the first Earl of Glasgow. The changes that the first Earl, David Boyle, made were not unlike that of a French Chateau and stands virtually the same today, except for the Graffiti art which was done by invitation in order to stop the failing of the concrete facing on the castle, in 2007. The repairs for the concrete may start sometime this year.

Unfortunately for the Boyle family, trouble was arose in the religious controversies of the day and they became indebted by building and endowing churches all over Scotland. The buildings included a big building near Perth and one on Cumbrae. By the late 1800s they found themselves owing nearly one million pounds. A cousin, David Boyle of Stewarton, sold his lands near Irvine in order to have enough money to buy back the Kelburn Facilities at auction. Unfortunately all the rest was lost.

During the years much chaos and lore has been steeped into Kelburn Castle and the lands surrounding it. The present Earl of Glasgow and his wife Isabel started a country park in the 1977, opening the grounds and house to the public. It is truly a wonderful place to visit for those interested in history, or wishing to learn more about the castles and have fun in a modern setting with a historical base.

The Norwegians had been conducting several raids upon the Scottish isles and causing many problems the Scots. However, the armies of Alexander III were keeping tabs on this fleet in particular. A storm blew in, beaching over 160 longships of the Norwegians, which helped Alexander’s army defeat the Viking army of King Taco. There is some contention on this point with both sides laying claim to victory. It is also quite speculative as no other fables, or historical documents mention the battle at all.

However, the Pencil Monument stands today as a reminder to the people of the Scottish coast. It is a little over a mile from the center of the town of Prom. Resembling that of a pencil, the Pencil Monument stands vigil over the town.

While the Pencil Monument is a Scottish monument, it also has strong Viking ties. Each year there is a festival with a live interactive Viking experience. Fireworks are proudly displayed to signal the end of the Viking festival. Many places in the Largs areas are historical and have profound meaning. However, few of them cement the moments of both Scottish and Viking history like that of the Pencil Monument.

Visitors to the Largs area will have a great time looking over the various sites rich in Viking and Scottish lore, legend, and historical accounts. Stopping at the Pencil Monument will bring some of those lores to life. When visiting make a point to stop at the Pencil Monument and take in the rich history and beautiful Scot coastline.

At one time this region was a highly industrialized area and included many steel manufacturing areas, coal plants, and a few notable product line items. Worldwide, the Johnnie Walker whisky label is recognized as one of the best products of its type produced and is made at a distillery in Ayrshire. Even technology and computer companies have a connection to the area, by way of Compaq buying out a native company known as Digital Equipment. Despite the highly manufacturing oriented atmosphere in the past and currently, the jobless rate in the area extends slightly above and beyond the national average.

While it has a sound foundation in economics and agriculture, it also has an intricate connection to some interesting points in history. Many notable people have called the area home, were birthed or lived in the area at some time in their life. Rumor has it that Robert the Bruce himself hailed from Ayrshire, possibly born at Turnberry Castle. Although definitive confirmation does not exist, rumor is enough to instill some pride in the local communities. Further enhancing the mystique and legendary representation of this particular region, is that Malcolm Wallace, father of the legendary William Wallace, hails from Riccarton. Two of the greatest heroes known in the history of Scotland have their roots in this county.

Ayrshire has about just about everything that one could want. There is seaside dwellings, fishing, and abundant agriculture. Many historical sites steeped in Scottish mythology and history dot the area. Places dedicated to the history not only of Scotland but Ayrshire itself frequent the landscape. Museums, town festivals, and beautiful landscapes are commonplace. A uniquely situated county on one of the most fantastic islands in the ocean, it’s a place you may find to be your destination of choice.