Evolving from a combination of multiple estates, lorded over by in the Montgomeries in the Sixteenth Century, Largs has an interesting history unique to its location. The first Sir Robert Montgomerie originally built Skelmorie Aisle in the old Kirk of Largs as a family mausoleum. It is the only remaining vestibule of the old kirk in modern times.

Starting off merely as a small village as a support structure essentially around its kirk, Largs became quite a busy and popular sea side town and port a couple hundred years later. The 19th century brought a construction boon to the village, as many big hotels were erected, which increased the town’s popularity. 1895 saw the railway come in to service in the area, making the town even more popular. In that day, it was fashionable to live in Largs, so many mansions were also built and famous people came to reside in the area. Read the full story

A total of 14 notable and famous clans call Ayrshire home, or their origins were founded there. Clan Boyd, whose origins stem back to the Battle of Largs against the Viking invasion, find base here. Sir Robert, a notable progenitor, was a commander in Robert the Bruce’s army against the English. He was rewarded with lands that later evolved to include many castles in the area of Kilmarok, Girvan, the areas of Portencross, and other parts of the county.

Then there are the Boyles, whose primary residence was the Kelburn Castle. They were descendants of Anglo Norman soldiers and knights who migrated in after the Norman conquest of England. The Bruces originated in Normandy, and were host to some of the most notable kings of Scotland. Robert The Bruce, the most famous one, was Annandales 7th lord and led the army against the English after the death of William Wallace. This line died out in 1371 with the death of his son David, who was 11. A clan who backed Robert the Bruce in his conquests, the Campbells, were gaining much wealth and notoriety, much land in Argyle, and the marriage to one of Bruce’s sisters. Read the full story

Ayrshire exists as the 7th largest county, population-wise, of all the Scottish counties. It is also one of the most fertile and agriculturally sound regions in the region, specifically in Scotland. The Irish would be proud of the Scots production of potatoes on the coast side in Ayrshire. Using seaweed, they make from a unique fertilizer that helps the production tremendously. It’s a region that sems to be a paradise for many who make their living off of the land.

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. Read the full story