Day Five with the kids was a rousing success (almost). Jeff and Kirsten and the boys went golfing at Turnberry. 
Jenn and the girls took the train into Glasgow, and Brad and I went off to do some ancestor hunting. We drove to Ayr where we had corresponded with a historical librarian at the Carnegie Library, Tom Barclay.
Tom had sent us some great information and maps of the area where Brad’s fourth great grandparents lived. He took us on a stroll and explained what the town was like in the early 1800’s. The town was coal miners and linen weavers, and Brad’s family were the later.
There are many buildings dating from the early 1800’s, and it was great to be able to see what they saw.We walked over a bridge they traveled on
we walked down the streets they walked, and what is in the corner of their block?
Life is so funny. Could 4th great grandfather Daniel have imagined that his grandson would return 220 years later? He died leaving his family in “distress”, and his wife, Flory, died 40 years later in the workhouse. And we return on an airplane, renting a castle to visit their ghosts. What a morning. We found their church (closed for over 70 years) we found what might have been their home (or more likely rented room)
and we hold them and their story in our hearts.
After an emotional morning, we went to hear about another Scottish family, the Dalrymple’s, Earl of Dumphries. The Earl was building this mansion (that Prince Charles’ trust owns) while Brad’s grandparents were starving. Amazing to put it into context.j
We also toured the garden Now this is a vegetable garden!
Amazing property, fantastic tour guide, and a proper British lunch.We got back to the house and Jenn had had quite a time with the girls. They had been great all week, but decided to act out in Glasgow and drive her to distraction. She was ready for a proper drink by the time we got home!
Speaking of proper drinks, we had drinks in the main house with the owners, Sallie and Charles. Lovely folks.
We came home to all the kids in the game room watching golf.

Now we know why Brad can sew so well. Also, born under the Lucky Star?
Awesome day. You did so much work Leana. It seems to have paid off. So happy for you both.
LikeLike