Welcome to the January contribution from Ardrossan Castle Heritage Society.

ALEXANDER MACFADZEAN COMMEMORATION

Considering it was early January, the weather on Tuesday 8 January was very favourable as we were joined by friends, including North Ayrshire Councillors, at MacFadzean’s Monument on the Castle Hill. The gathering was to mark the one hundred and seventieth anniversary of the death of Alexander MacFadzean who played a huge part in the early development of Ardrossan. George McGrattan gave a short account of the good works of Dr MacFadzean including his free medical care to the poor, his part in the creation of Ardrossan as a Burgh, his involvement in the building of the Barony Church and getting a clean water supply for the town. This was followed by the laying of wreaths, firstly by Provost Ian Clarkson on behalf of North Ayrshire Council and Ardrossan Castle Heritage Society chairperson, Martin Kostigovs. The reason for the tribute was to raise awareness among people who have seen MacFadzean’s Monument but might not know the story behind it.

Afterwards, there was a reception in the Ardrossan Castle Room of Ardrossan Library where refreshments were served. The Castle Room features a display of pictures, documents and artefacts associated with the Castle Hill and is well worth a visit. The Society is very grateful to Provost Clarkson and Councillors McClung, McNicol, McTiernan and Miller for their presence. We also appreciate the support and cooperation of Lesley Forsyth, North Ayrshire Cultural Development Manager, and Suzanne Stevenson of Ardrossan Library.

PRESENTATIONS

From time to time, we are asked to give presentations on our activities to local groups. The most recent one was last week to the Mansefield Trinity Church Guild, Kilwinning.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL DIG

We are preparing for a major archaeological dig at the Castle grounds in May.