We are back at Ardeer and another explosion. This time, it occurred in 1938 and it was actually two explosions, one after another, that resulted in the deaths of 6 people. The vibration from the blasts was felt as far away as Kilmarnock and Ayr. Read the full story in the link below:
Learn About the History of the Earls of Eglinton and Eglinton Estate
We have added a new page in our Stories section which details the history of the Earls of Eglinton, Eglinton Estate and the Eglinton Tournament! One of the most powerful families in Scotland for around 800 years, they created the modern layout of the town of Ardrossan (designed by Peter Nicholson), built Ardrossan Harbour, and built a castle at Eglinton …
The Story of the 1913 Explosion at Ardeer ICI Has Been Added to the Stories Section
Learn all about the violent explosion that occurred at Nobel’s Factory in 1913 which saw 10 people injured and 6 killed. The explosion was heard as far away as Kilmarnock and Lanarkshire! To read the full story, click the link below:
‘Outwith’ Exhibition at the Museum of the Cumbraes
We have a new art exhibition within our Museum of the Cumbraes, which is located within the beautiful Garrison House in Millport. Called “Outwith” this exhibition features a showcase of work by talented Irvine-based artist Kevin O’Rourke’, who took his inspiration from the Scottish word meaning ‘outside or beyond.’ Talking about his inspiration, Kevins shares that “Covid completely changed my …
Learn About the History of Stevenston Corn Mill
Have you ever noticed the old mill stones on Main Street in Stevenston? We received a request for information on them and it led to some research on the topic and now there is an article in our ‘Stories’ section! By May 1936, the old corn mill with its giant waterwheel had almost disappeared, with only the walls of the …
Sir John Smith Knox Boyd Has Been Added to the Stories Section
The Largs-born bacteriologist, Sir John Smith Knox Boyd has now been added to the ‘Stories’ section of our website! This fascinating man served with the Royal Army Medical Corps during the First World War and worked to improve the treatment of troops: including blood transfusions, treatment of malaria and dysentry. Read his full story below!
Learn About the History of Ardeer Golf Club
This is one for the golfers out there! Officially opened in 1905, Ardeer Golf Club, the 18 hole golf course replaced the previous one that had been opened in 1880. The new clubhouse had 2 club rooms, one for the ladies and one for the gentlemen, and was designed by architect Hugh Thomson. To read more about the club, click …
Read About the History of Main Street, Stevenston
We have a new article in our ‘Stories’ section which documents the history of Main Street in Stevenston, from the end of the 1880’s to the 1970’s through photographs. If you are from the area or have an interest in the development of North Ayrshire towns this is a must-read piece!
Back Doon the Watter Exhibition is Now On!
Our new exhibition, ‘Back Doon the Watter’ is now on at our Heritage Centre in Saltcoats! Featuring a photography exhibition by Mandy Edwards and a wide variety of objects and digital content, this exhibition is a must visit if you love the history of holidaying on the west coast! The exhibition runs from September until November at the Heritage Centre …
1970 Ian’s Cracking Performance
The following post was kindly submitted to us by Gordon McCreath, who is a keen Ayrshire junior football historian. I’ve often heard the Ayrshire Regional League Cup being referred to as a competition that “didnae maitter onyway” … usually after the Medda has been unexpectedly knocked out of it. To be fair it was never one of the high prestige …