The Citadel of Ayr and the 1660 Restoration

Events at Ayr played a part in the power struggle which followed the death of Oliver Cromwell on 3rd September 1658, and which led to the restoration of the monarchy (which had been abolished in 1649 following the execution of King Charles I). John Lambert, the dominant figure in the army’s council of generals, was […]

Look Who’s Coming to the Fair

History on Your Doorstep: History and Family History Fair Saturday 15 June, 9am – 4pm There’s only a week to go until our History on Your Doorstep event at Ayr’s Carnegie Library. Not only do we have a fantastic line up of speakers, but we also have a variety of stalls that include Family History Societies […]

Full Programme for History on Your Doorstep 2019

South Ayrshire Local and Family History Fair Saturday 15 June, 9am – 4pm South Ayrshire’s Local and Family History Fair will this year be taking over the Carnegie Library, Ayr, for a full-day programme of informative talks from respected guest speakers. Visitors can also browse a variety of stalls offering advice and guidance on family […]

St John’s Tower: a survivor of Ayr’s medieval past

St John’s Tower in Citadel Place is all that remains of Ayr’s medieval parish church, dedicated to St John the Baptist. The church appears to have been founded in the late twelfth century, and it was enlarged during the following centuries. In 1315 King Robert the Bruce convened a parliament or assembly in the church […]