|
Ayr (The)
AYR (The), a river which rises at Glenbuck in
the eastern extremity of the parish of Muirkirk, in Ayrshire ; and,
after a course of about 33 miles nearly due west, in which it divides
the county at its broadest part into two nearly equal portions, falls
into the sea at the town of Ayr, where its estuary forms the harbour.
It is for some miles of its course a small rivulet, flowing among
holms and haughs through an open moorland district; but, being joined
by the Greenock, and 'the haunted Garpal,' it becomes a large body of
water. It is augmented by 'the winding Lugar at Barskimming, and by
'the brawling Coil' at Shaws. " Most of its course for the last 20
miles is bounded by steep rocky banks, generally covered with wood,
which in several places are highly picturesque. In a few spots the
banks open, and some enchanting holms are found between them; but in
many places the river is seen for some miles together, dashing and
foaming in a deep and narrow chasm, rendered dark and gloomy by the
bulky foliage of the trees which overhang the stream." [Alton's
'View,' p- 59.]
The Ayr is subject to heavy floods during winter. After continued
rains in the upland districts through which it flows, in the language
of Burns,
"from Glenburk down to the Ratton-key,
Auld Ayr is just one lengthened tumbling sea."
Sorn castle, Ballochmyle, Auchencruive, and Auchinleck, may be
mentioned as worthy of notice for their beautiful situation on the
banks of this river. The Ayr was anciently named Vidogara. The
etymology of the present name of the river is doubtful. In its bed is
procured a species of claystone which is well-known to artisans by the
name of 'Water-of-Ayr stone,' and proves a fine whetstone. Salmon are
caught in the mouth of the river during the summer-season ; but the
fishing in this river is not nearly so productive as that in the Doon.
|
