Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1875 edition. Excerpt: ... / PEEFACE. The following pages are a record of some pleasing Eambles in and around the town of Kilmarnock. A considerable portion appeared in the Kilmarnock Standard, and met with such a favourable reception, both at home and abroad, that I have yielded to the solicitation of numerous friends, and now present them to the public in their present form. In doing so, I have carefully revised them and added much new matter suggested by further inquiry, and have endeavoured to make the work as useful, entertaining, instructive, concise, and accurate as possible. In nearly every instance, although one visit is only mentioned, I have repeatedly gone to the places described; but, nevertheless, it must be borne in mind that the "Eambler" does not rise to the dignity of the historian, therefore he is not to be censured if he omits some things which fall within the province of one who aims at giving a minutely detailed history of a locality or place. The district is one of singularly romantic interest, and replete with memories of patriot and bard; so much so, that the Scotchman must be soulless indeed who can tread its classic ground and pass by the haunts of heroes and the graves of martyrs, and look upon scenes that once inspired the tongue of Coila's bard, without being susceptible to a feeling of pride that the land of Wallace and Bruce is that of his nativity. The time-shattered ruins, auld kirkyards, and quaint villages which nestle in many a picturesque nook in the vicinity of the town are dear to every Kilmarnockonian, but more so to those whom fate or circumstances have removed from the scenes of youthful days; therefore I trust that this work will not only serve to awaken fond memories of each loved spot, but act as a handy guide to the...
