The McIlwraiths of Ayrshire Version UPDATE

“McIlwraith”

A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Colin McNally. With considerable research, input, direction and writings of co-author

Duncan van Reijswoud.

Index 1 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Page Introduction The Early McIlwraiths From Pinnanent To Auchenflower Auchenflower Auchenflower Auchenflower Balcletchie Covenanters Ireland Smuggling Riccarton Bush Thomas in Newton

APPENDICIES; Early McIlwraiths in Ballantrae Acknowledgements Acknowledgements List of McIlwraith name variations Place names of Carrick Ballantrae Fishery Reid McIlwraith’s in Newton in Ayr A yr council The Scottish Line Whig Families The letters of Sir Thomas McIlwraith References.

2 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

INTRODUCTION When you decide to research your family tree, you possibly only expect to consider a few generations back, or at most two or three branches. Somewhere this search ended up looking at the forest. This journey started with a single question – since – since Colin McNally was young he had been aware of the McIlwraiths of Auchenflower and as many generations of the family have considered, are the McIlwraiths of Ballantrae (the authors Grandmother) possibly related to them? This wondering stemmed from Colin McNally’s father, Robert McNally, who as a young boy was told by his mother that we were related. However, given that the McIlwraiths of Ballantrae were fisherman and the McIlwraiths of Auchenflower landed gentry – – never the twain shall meet, never less be related. Read on as evidence is better than fiction. The findings below are the result of years of research conducted by two researchers and very distant relations; Colin McNally from Ballantrae, Ayrshire and Duncan van Reijswoud from Australia. A good number of years ago I was trawling the internet and found a number of posts by Duncan and through contacting him that developed into a collaboration which resulted into each of us bringing information, skills and resources to the research; investigating, challenging and creating the consensus. The first fully documented history of the McIlwraiths of Ayrshire. The search was compiled using, where possible, the review of originally sourced documents. documents. Although full documents documents were obtained, transcripted transcripted and transcribed transcribed by the authors, only the key facts have been used within the following text. An example of what has been left out of the book includes the list of inventories inventories which accompanied most testaments of that period. The consequence of utilising source reference materials is that in many cases the results will run contrary to views, opinions and theories expressed by prior writers. This issue can be further developed as one author’s view is passed on as “fact” through the generations. This new research has developed a McIlwraith family tree with multiple branches, each with their own story and history, as written in the following pages.


THE EARLY ORIGINS OF THE MCILWRAITH FAMILY. To have an understanding of the history and family tree of the McIlwraith family, it is best to first have an appreciation of the land and the circumstances in which they came from and which they lived and worked. The Clan surname is of an early heritage and is recorded in many spellings of which the most popular are probably McIlwraith, McIlraith, McElrath, and McIlrath. ( A listing of a number of variants can be found in the appendix).

What can be appreciated throughout the research is that the written spelling of the surname can change not just between generations, but during the lifetime of an individual. Therefore on one document the spelling can be McIlwraith, on another for the same individual individual Mcilrath. Then a son can be named McIlwrick in another document. The reasoning for this continuing change in spelling can be put down to location, however in the main it is down to what the scribe, attorney or clerk heard when writing the “McIlwraiths” name down, he wrote it as he heard it. This issue would have been exacerbated as many over the years would not have been able to read and write. The continuing name variant’s continues into the 19 th century when we start to s ee some normalising of the spelling spelling of name nam e within family groups. The first recorded spelling of the family name is believed to be that of John Make Gille Reue. He was a Scottish hostage, held in Carlisle Castle, during the reign of the Interregnum Government of Scotland, 1296 – 1306. – 1306. Andrew was one of the first McIlwraith ’s, being the son of John Make Gill G ille e Reue, a Scot's Sc ot's hostage who dies in Carlisle prison in 1300 as part of the continual cross border fighting between the Gaels and James 1 -3 of England. Early examples of the surname recordings showing the variant spellings include Thomas M'Gilrewy, given as being a Douglas tenant in the barony of Buittle in 1376 (Buittle is an ecclesiastical and civil parish in the Stewartry of Kirkcudbright in the South West of Scotland), whilst Donald Makgillereoch appears as a witness in the Book of the Thanes of Cawdor, in 1488. The exact origin of the name is still debated. The widely accepted version of its origin derives from the Gaelic Mac Gille Riabhaich, and translates literally as the son of the follower (gille) of the brindled one. As to whom the brindled one is not proven, but he may have been a holy man, since "gille" can mean servant, but more usually in ancient times described a friend or follower. The accepted origination that the t he McIlwraith sept were originally from the MacDonald’s Of Clanranald in Uist, Skye, Kintyre and Islay, and migrated from the Western Isles in the 15 th Century and settled along the Stinchar."Clan Ilerich" although when requested they always wrote MacDonald. Up until very recently, and even when the author was discussing the tree with the Clan McDonald Centre on Skye, the clan were not fully convinced of the link. Further evidence to back this theory has now been provided through DNA research carried out in 2012 by Robin McIlwraith in Australia. This is a considerable report, however after sourcing the DNA it noted the following regarding the specific gene Haplogroup R. The research cumulates that famous members of Haplogroup R; were; one of Scotland's greatest warriors, Somerled of Argyll, who is credited with driving the Vikings from Scotland, belonged belonged to haplogroup R1a1M17. Members of Clan Donald, which Somerled founded, were tested to determine 4 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Somerled's Y-chromosome membership. (Genetree - Y-DNA MOLECULAR GENEALOGY REPORT for Robin McIlwraith 16 th March 2012) From this DNA research the same “Y” chromosome that is within the McIlwraith’s is also found in our “common ancestor” Clan McDonald. Further research of the very early origins continue to this day. The history is that the McIlwraith’s belonged to, held the lands, township and parish known to be the farm of Kilmorey (an Anglicised naming convention), in Troternish. Held first by Clan Domhnuill Riabhach, Tradition says that the ' Clann Domhnuill Riabhaich ' were a family of hereditary bards to the Macleod’s of Dunvegan, and that the Macleod chief, having for some reason dismissed Mac-Gille-Riabhaich, Macdonald of Sleat received him and his sept, giving them lands on the farm of Kilmorey in Trotternish, which for long- perhaps to this day - retains the original name of Baile Mhic Ghille Riabhaich. Mac GIOLLA RIABHAIGH; 'son of Giolla riabhach' (the grey youth, from riabhach, grey, brindled); the name (1) of a family of the Ui Fiachrach, seated at Creaghaun, in the parish of Skreen, Co. Sligo; and (2) of a Clare family who were servants of trust to the Earls of Thomond, and held the castle of Craigbrien, in the parish of Clondagad. The family is still in Thomond, but the surname is now always anglicised Gallery. In the midlands, it was sometimes made Callery, and sometimes translated Gray. Kilgray is a half translation, Mac Giolla riabhaigh is also a Scottish surname. According to Dr. MacBain, it is anglicised MacIlwraith. Therefore as with many Scottish families there is considerable links to Ireland and this is no different for our forfathers on Skye. Below are pictures taken by the author of the area and also of the buildings (to provide an indication of the dwellings the McIlwraith’s would have lived in) at the Skye Museum of Island Life at Kilmuir, Isle of Skye. http://www.skyemuseum.co.uk/ http://www.skyemuseum.co.uk/..


There is a place called Baile Mhic Illeriabhaich meaning the township of the Macgilleriabhachs - this is at Kilmuir, south west of Troternish. Note - Spellings and pronunciations differ in the various areas. ' Riabhaich ' may be pronounced ' riavach ' or ' riach' with the ' bh ' silent. An ' h ' inserted after the first letter of a noun, gives it the dative case. Thus ' Baile Mhic Ghille Raibhaich Raibhaich ' is literally ' the town of the son of the boy freckled'. This township is more usually called Balgown now and it is in the north of the island, just a little bit north of Uig. The name change occurring towards the end of the 18th century, early 19th Century. The role the McIlwraith’s played were that of hereditary bards. These bards held and exerted a powerful influence over the minds of the people. The bards sang the praises of those who won distinction in war and they extolled the v irtues of courage and of chivalry. chivalry. The first known of these Bards is Muireadach Albannach, Albannach, he served as the court bard to the Mormaer of Lennox. The concept of the McIlwraith’s McIlwraith’s being bard’s does have some support when you consider the findings of the author’s research, as you will read in the coming pages that throughout the 17th – 19th centuries the McIlwraith’s continued to be Baillie’s, Advocates and Factors. Basically as with the bards – they – they were the holders of the family papers, tenancy and land 6 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

ownership records, continuously acting on behalf of other members of the wider McIlwraith family. Domhnull was the founder of the clan, he was was a man of valour, valour, a bard, a leader leader of men. The word ' clann ' in Gaelic means 'children, hence ' families '. Clan society had three traditional elements; 1. An ancient name derived from an illustrious ancestor. 2. Land, held at first communally, communally, later as the personal possession of the chief. 3. An ingrained sense of loyalty to the chief and inter dependence of the clansmen resulting from hundreds of years of harsh existence in land where climate and barren environment made co-operation a necessity. This kin-ship is again witnessed throughout the centuries of the McIlwraith documents. Darroch, MacIlreach, MacIlriach, MacIleriach, Reoch, MacIlwraith, MacRaith, MacIlrevie, Revie, Bowie.- These names are synonyms for Mac-Gille-Riabhaich. Darroch is a form of the name found in Islay and Jura, The late Lord Lyon King of Arms, lists ' Darroch ' among the septs of Clan Donald proper as opposed to the other divisions of the Clan Donald such as Clanranald, Clanranald, Glengarry G lengarry,, Glencoe, G lencoe, etc. Duncan Darroch of Gourock, chief of that ancient name, the patronymic of which is M'Iliriach "showing that 'Iliriach was the progenitor of this sept. The by-name of Darrach, so says tradition, was applied to one of the MacIleriachs, who, in some clan foray, distinguished himself by the good use he made of an oak staff. In more modern times the island of Jura is the nursery of the Darroch race, and there the name is most frequently met with in its special form of Darroch. In this form it is supposed to be a corruption of the words Dath Riabhach or brindled colour, to distinguish the sept of the Dath Buidhe or yellow colour. The first part of the passage from which the above quotation in ' The History of Clan Donald' is taken, is as follows “The Darroch tribe is very probably - as is claimed by its members a real branch of the Macdonald Clan, though the received origin of the name and its traditional connection with an oak stick may well be regarded as a legend very naturally growing out of the particular form which the name has assumed. The sept is styled in gaelic ‘Clann ‘ille Riabhaich’ sometimes ‘Clann Domhnuill Riabhaich’, an d in 1623 we find a family of this name in Skye entering into a Bond with Sir Donald Macdonald, 1st Baronet of Sleat, in which they acknowledge him as their chief, and he promises them due protection. Whether this is the origin of the claim to belong to the Clan Donald cannot be determined. A bond of service called a manrent was signed between the between this family and the lord of the Isles at Castle Camus, Skye, on August 13 th 1632 .” The Bond of ' Clann Domhnuill Domhnuill Riabhaich ' to Sir Donald Macdonald of Sleat in 1632 is but a specimen of many similar bonds - probably unwritten - which would have been formed in previous generations between the native men of Skye - the earlier inhabitants of the island and the chiefs Tradition dies hard in the Highlands and can usually be given credence but there are anomalies here that should be considered objectively, objectively, especially since errors that have crept into the old authorities are often repeated and enlarged. 'Darroch' may have been derived from ' Dath Riabhaich ' but the Mac Gille Riabhaichs were a northern race. Small clans did 7 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

not spread. The specifics of where the name originates as it is sometimes difficult in the early 21st century to know what real tradition was and what has been embroidered and romanticised romanticised to make m ake it fit a particular theory. However given what information is available to date Skye and more particular the Western Isles appear to be the origins of the name. Given that the Kennedys were traced as far back as a Western Isle chief, it is more certain that the Kennedy's fought for Gilbert the son of Fergus into Carrick with Uchtred before accompanying Duncan fitz Gilbert into Carrick when Duncan was awarded the lordship of the territory in 1187 after losing Galloway. Galloway. There is a great importance in having an understanding of the importance of the Kennedys within Ayrshire when researching the family history of the McIlwraith’s. For as far back as records are available the two families have very close connections, and this may be the result of McIlwraith’s McIlwraith ’s travelling to Galloway with the Kennedys as far back as the 12 th century. Therefore this connection through the initial tenancy of Kennedy land, working for and most likely fighting for both sides of the Kennedy Clan’s, the purchase of previously owned Kennedy farms and estates, the marriages between McIlwraith and Senior Kennedy members, the continued signatories of Kennedys in numerous Testaments, Deeds and Bonds across the McIlwraith estates. The Kennedy’s are split into two main factions. The Kennedy’s of Cassillis whose original seat for several hundred years from the 12 th Century was Dunure Castle, which today is surprising when you consider the splendour and scale of Culzean (originally the Kennedy’s of Cove). The second branch of the Kennedy’s Kenned y’s was that of the Bargany Kennedy’s, whose main seat was Ardstinchar Castle in Ballantrae. Ballant rae. Although both sides were descended from the same family line much infighting between the factions resulted in a lot of bloodshed lost due to each side trying to gain land and power. Some of the earliest records where the McIlwraith and Kennedy names can be seen to be connected are during the early 16 th century when McIlwraith’s were on opposing sides.

Ardstinchar Castle, photographed c1900, seat of the Bargany Kennedy’s. Kennedy’s. Although the McIlwraith’s McIlwraith’s were both witness to and part of this continuing feud, the records show that they were also shrewd enough to benefit from the weakening of Kennedy structure by acquiring at first tenancy and secondly ownership of many previously owned Kennedy farms and estates. The McIlwraith’s farming history grew within a system of land tenure which evolved whereby families could only have a maximum tack (lease) of 19 years, and this discouraged any long term investment in holdings. However security of tenure was surprisingly good as a system


of customary inheritance known as “kindly tenure” was developed where a holding could pass to someone who could claim their nearest n earest kin had farmed the land. It is worth noting at this juncture that the as well as managing to live and farm in the harsh conditions of rural Carrick, the McIlwraith’s also emerged in the period known as the “mini ice age”. Although start and end dates are debated it was during the period of 1550 through to 1850 and notes three particularly cold intervals: one beginning about 1650, another about 1770, and the last in 1850, each each separated by intervals intervals of slight warming. warming. The change in temperature was only around 1 – – 2 degrees; however that is enough to affect almost any type of food production, with growing season ’s shortened ’s shortened by one to two months. Therefore, climate changes had a much greater impact on agricultural output in the past, Making the McIlwraith existence in this period even more difficult. Skye and the Western isles still holds some mysteries with regards to the origins of the McIlwraith clan what is not in doubt is that by the 16 th Century the McIlwraith’s had firmly established themselves as part of Ayrshire, and very much more specifically the county of Carrick.

The Ayrshire and Carrick Landscape. Ayrshire is 63 miles long at its extremities, and 26 miles wide, with an 84 mile coastline. It covers 725,000 Acres. Carrick is a county within Ayrshire, and is where the McIlwraith’s settled, “Carraig” literally translated is the province or land of the rock (Ailsa Craig). This great sea rock towers above the waters in the lower Firth of Clyde, approx 10 miles out from the shores at Ballantrae and Girvan. Until AD 1186 Carrick formed the north western part of the ancient Lordship of Galloway. Dived between Ronald and Duncan MacDowall, two grandsons of the Lords Lords off Galloway. Galloway. Duncan becoming becoming the first Lord and later later in AD 1225 Earl of Carrick. Duncan’s Granddaughter Marjory MacDowall became Countess of Carrick, and married Robert de Brus, and the lordship of Carrick passed into that of the “Bruce” Robert being recognised as Earl in his own right. In 1306 Marjorie’s son Ro bert succeeded William Wallace as Guardian of Scotland. To assist in the description of Carrick when the McIlwraith’s were most prominent the author can do no better than use a slightly modernised and adapted version of The Rev Abercrombie’s Abercrombie’s description of of the area (in ( in italics), written in 1696. Where possible the original spellings have been left in; to assist further in understanding the place names mentioned 9 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

throughout this book please also reference Appendix 2 which gives an understanding to the names of some of the Key areas associated with the McIlwraith family in Carrick. Carrick is a part of the Shire of Ayr lying to the South and Southwest of Kyle, The Coast runs Southwest from the castle of Greenand through to Ballantrae on the Southside, where the river Stinchar runs into the sea, in what is now the North Channel. The River Stinchar is formed along fault lines on the boundary of the Southern Uplands. Uplands. The further inland you go with Ayrshire the greater the rainfall, the main Stinchar Valley area running within within a seam of greater than average (for the area) rainfall. The effect of this rain on the associated farmland is, in parts to remove much of the soluble minerals from the land, requiring greater need for mineral additives. This leads to minimal arable farming, unless on the coastal areas, relying greater on more an imal farming. The language spoken within Galloway and its ancient division of Carrick was Gallovidian Gaelic until about the end of the 16 th Century. Scots Doric had been introduced a century earlier however it would take a considerable period to become the native language. It must be appreciated by the reader at this point that many of the hundreds of original source documents researched by the authors were in this native language and were transcripted and transcribed to gain understanding of their content. It was only by going back to the original documents that a greater understanding of the McIlwraith family could be achieved. It is a country which is abundantly furnished with all the accommodations of human life, being washed by the sea upon one side and well enough provided of coal at no great distance from the coast, yet it produces such plenty of all sorts of grain, that it not only serves its own Inhabitants, but has to spare to neighbouring places so that from hence are yearly transported considerable quantities quantities of m eal both to Galloway and the fishing in Clyde. No county is better provided of wood, for along the banks of Doon, Girvan & Stinchar there be great woods, and it is ordinary throughout all that Country and every Gentleman has by his house both wood and water orchards and parks. The great and almost only name amongst the Gentry have been Kennedys, yet there be beside them Boyd’s, Cathcart’s, Fergusson’s and Moore’s that have been old possessors. The later names that enjoy some the ancient honourable seats of the Kennedys are Hamilton’s that posses Bargeny, Whitfoords that possessed Blairquhan and Crawfuird that have Ardmillan. Yet the Kennedy’s continue still to be both t he t he most numerous and most powerful clan. Beside the E. of Cassillis their chief there be Sir Gilbert Kennedy of Girvanmain’s, Sir Arch. Kennedy of Colarne, Sir Tho. Kennedy of Kirkhill, Kennedy of Baltersan, Kennedy Kennedy of Kilheigwe, Kennedy Kennedy of Kirlmichael, Kennedy of Knockdone Knockdone Kennedy of Glenour, Kennedy Kennedy of Bennan, Kennedy Kennedy of Carlock and and Kennedy of Drumellan. Drumellan. But this name is under great decay in comparison of what it was an age ago at which time they flourished so in power and number as to give occasion to this Rhyme Twixt Wigtoune and the towne of Aire And laigh down down be the Cruves Cruves of Cree You shall not gett a lodging there Except ye court a Kennedy 10 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

The area is at a point of industry most addicted to merchandising by droves of cattle, wool, flocks of sheep and commerce with Ireland. Their ease and plenty disposes them to be unruly and turbulent, so that the servants are Insolent, and all of them are but uneasy subjects so that in the late times Carrick hath been a sanctuary or rather a nursery of Rogues, bearing arms against authority upon pretext of religion. It is worth noting to the reader that the McIlwraith’s were very much a strong Presbyterian family and at a cost in freedom, persecution, land seizures and confiscation, and lives lost they were heavily involved in the reformation, covenanting and the associated religious war that swept Scotland in the 17 th century. This Country of old gave the title of Earle to Robert Bruce the great assertor of Scottish liberty in right of whom it continues still to be one of the titles of the Prince; and the freeholders of this Jurisdiction are the Princes vassals. All the houses of the Gentry of this Country are seated both pleasantly pleasantly and commodiously. commodiously. Southward from this this lies the house of Thomastowne once the r esidence esidence of the Cory’s but now of the McLevain of Grimmet a very pretty house with gardens Orchards and Parks round it, both these lye in the parish of Kirkoswald. The next upon the Coast, Coast, are to be seen the old ruins ruins of the ancient Castle of Turnberry. Next to this is the Castle of Ardmillan so much improved of late with a d eep broad ditch and strengthened with a moveable bridge at the entry, able to secure the owner from the sudden commotions and assaults of the wild people of this corner, which on these occasions are set upon robbery and depredation, and to enable him the better to endure a siege. Last there is the old Castle of Ardstincher, which is mostly now ruined but has been of old a vast huge fabric and stands upon an ascending ground above the town of Balantrae eastward. Inward from the river Girvan stands the house of Barclanathan (now Kilkerran) with its gardens and orchards all which are surrounded by wood, all the water from this downward till near Daillie Daillie being so covered with wood that it looks like a forest. And in a low ground below the last, and nearer the water stands Drummellan and upon the northside of the river below that upon a higher ground stands the house of Drumburle the mansion mansion house of the lairds of Drummellan. Not far from this, down the water stands the stately Castle of Dolquharran, Dolquharran, the building where of is much improved by the additions lately made thereto, which make it by very far the best house of all that Country, surrounded with vast enclosures of wood. Below this on the south side of Girvan stands the house of Brunstoun in an open field, next in a low ground near the brink brink of the river the old old castle of Bargeny. On the eastside of which which up toward the hills stands the house of Pinkill belonging to the Boyds. On the northside of the river downward and up toward the hill about a mile from the river stands the house of Trochreg which belongs to the Boyd’s. The other principal river of this Country is the Stinchar which rises in headwaters in the Carrick Forest, Heritors and substantial farmers who knowing the nature of the soil, to be fittest for pasturage, breed breed store of Cowes, Cowes, sheep, and goats, and live very plentifully plentifully . You come to Barrehill, Barrehill, upon the southwest of which, which, stands the Kirk Kirk of Barre or Brownhill. Brownhill. From the said Kirk the trough of the water continues pretty open and has pleasant dwellings all upon each side of the water as Antanalbany, Dowlarg, Achinsoul, Bennan, Monnucion for the space of three miles. A little down down the river river on the Southside stands stands Dalreoch. A mile 11 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

below this stands the house of Knockdolian on the east foot of Knockdolian Hill, very pleasant by planting of Gardens, Orchards walks and rows of trees that surprise the beholder with things so far beyond expectation in a country so wild and mountainous. When the river of Stincher has past this Hill, It receives the water of Tig about whose influx into it, are the remains of an old church called Innertig or Kirkudbright the ancient parish church of Balantrae. At the foot of this water water stands the town of Balantrae Balantrae on the northside northside on a pleasant foreland, foreland, which some years years ago has been much resorted resorted to by reason of an an herring fishing about the Christmas time but that has ceased about 30 years past. The Nine Parishes are Mayboll, Kirkmichael, Straton, Barre, Calmonel, Balantrae, Girvan, Daillie and Kirkoswald. The parish of Mayboll is very large and populous extending from the sea and water of Doon to the water of Girvan. Girvan. In this parish are these houses houses Cassillis Cassillis the mansion house of the Earle of Cassillis, Kirkmichael, Cloncaird, Blairquhan, Kilmore and Montgomerystone. The parish of Stratowne lies East and south toward the Stewartree of Galoway. There are no Gentry living here save Shaw of Keirs and Shaw of Grimmet toward the water of Doon. The parish of Barr is but a late erection for accommodation of the extreme parts of the parishes of Daillie and Girvan. The village is situated on sharp pointed tounges of land formed by the Gregg and the Stinchar. Stinchar. None dwell here but petty Heretors in common ordinary houses as Dolherne Barre Dinmuchre Antanalbany Achinsoul bennan Monuncion and Bellimore. It is of vast bounds reaching reaching from Stincher to Galloway Galloway twixt which lye vast bounds of moorish and barren ground. Barr ground. Barr is an area of around 55,000 acres, (only around 3000 being arable) it is a wild mountainous moorland area, as the Stinchar rises nearby and cuts through the Barr Parish it has provided a narrow strip of very fertile ground. The Parish of Calmonell is of yet larger extent some places in these moorish countrys. In this parish are several very good houses houses for the Heretors residence as Corseclayes, Daljarroch, Kildonan, Glenduiske, Craig, Dalreoch, Craigneil, Kirkhill, Knockdolians, Knockdolians, Knockdaw and Carleton. The parish of Ballantrae is of great extent though the people are not numerous, the Clachan is pretty populous. The “town on the shore”. shore” . The residing heretors are but few, and their dwellings are mean and homely being Glenour Bennan and Carlosk and Glentig there is neither orchard nor fruit tree in it all. It is principally supported by its fishing of salmon and cod-fish, and by the manufacture of coarse linen and plaids, in the weaving of which about 50 looms are employed; the salmon fishing belongs to the Earl of Stair. Ballantrae itself has long been isolated and at the same time inhabited by native dwellers or invaders. What brought early inhabitants, how long they occupied the land and how they lived is a matter of debate – debate – although although many relicts of such inhabitants are scattered across the parish. The land is 80% rough grazing. (5) (5) In 1617 the village was erected into a Burgh of Barony. The parish of Girvan is populous with the houses of the Gentry here are Ardmillan, Balachtoule, Troweir, and Trochrig.


The parish of Daillie lies in length east and west on both sides of Girvan, more populous then spacious. They are Pinkill, Pinkill, Killochan, Bargeny, Brunstowne, Dalquharran, Dalquharran, Moorestowne, Drummochrin, Drummochrin, Drumburle, Drummellan, and Barclanachan. Barclanachan. As you will will appreciate as you read this book, the McIlwraith’s grew in Carrick, however due to their farming and business acumen or to need; they first increased their presence in the wider Ayrshire landscape and also Edinburgh, and then made their mark and left a trail across many parts of the globe, from Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and Canada to name but a few. Given that right up until the 1900’s community bond is very tight and has meant that many young people stayed and worked in and around the area, therefore this makes it even more surprising surprising to consider the moves made by the McIlwraith family to up root. The Early family. As noted, the exact origin of the McIlwraith family is debated, however even when looking at the earliest mentions of the family in Carrick and its surrounds, it is impossible to place together an exact tree. Many references to the family are only for an individual at a specific time, or at best at a specific farm. Therefore, what has been created is a tree which has been built up using the information available, such as dates, location, spelling of surname and sometimes importantly, the fact that the name of the first child was often the first name of the father. As the tree is extended you continuously continuously find family groups repeating the same naming conventions. conventions. The tree that was developed through this research is extensive and therefore is not replicated within this book. What has been provided is the listings of families and their associated connections. Domhnuill Riabhach Riabhach - the originator of the clan John Make Make Gille R eue, He was a Scottish hostage, held in Carlisle C astle, during the the reign of the Interregnum Government of Scotland, Scotland, 1296 - 1306 Andrew Ma Make ke GilleReue GilleReue alive alive 1300, a money allowance allowance was was g ranted ranted to his Andrew because of his his fathers fathers dying dying in in prison. Thomas McGilrewy, a Douglas tennant in the barony of Buittle (1376) Donald Makgillereoch, Book of the Thanes of Cawdor, in 148 8 and and 1497 , a witness witness at Cawdor in 1485 Sir John McMyleracht is noted as a tenant in Ayr 1476

Sir Gilbert Makgilhauch Makgilhauch, , died 154 3, witnessed a document at Auchenfloure on 30.1.1496 or 97

Michael Michael Dow McAlere ache, an aged Highlander Highlander banished f rom K irkcudbright in 1508 f or petty theft theft

Duncan Makgilliereach [I, 957] in Fandownyach. Fandownyach. 3 July 1503 – PS1/3/115

Malcolm Makclerach [I, 1121] in Garden. Garden. 20 Aug Aug 1505 – PS1/3/115

What can be noted at this point is that the further you go back in family research, the less information there is available about the female side of the family. 13 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

The first local mention of Sir John McMyleracht is noted as a tenant in Ayr in 1476. The spelling is slightly different from the norm; however the author believes that he is one of the earliest recognised McIlwraiths in Ayrshire. In 1496 or 97, Sir Gilbert Makgilhauch witnesses a document at Auchenfloure. This is the first mention of Auchenflower in a record connected with the McIlwraith, a connection that would last for the next 400 plus years. It has been assumed that he is the father of the next generation. Michael Dow McAlereache, an aged Highlander banished from Kirkcudbright in 1508 for petty theft. Note the spelling and also his identification as a Highlander, this immediately starts to tie back into the Western Isles and Skye theory. theory. Thomas M'Gilrewy M'Gilrewy as noted earlier earlier may have been the start of the family. Malcolm Makclerach Makclerach [I, 1121] in Garden. 20th Aug 1505 – – Privy Seal (PS) 1/3/115 – – very little is known about Malcolm, and unsure what “Garden” that is referred to, this may be a spelling mistake and what is a more likely place name is that of “Farden” which sits just outside Pinwherry in Ayrshire. As with much of the writing of the time – names – names were written as heard.

This then makes it t ie to our third individual Duncan Makgilliereach Makgilliereach [I, 957] in Fandownyach. rd (Fardenreoch) 3 July 1503 – 1503 – PS1/3/115. PS1/3/115. 14 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

It is highly likely and highly probable that these are the origins of the McIlwraith family in Carrick – Carrick – first first settling at Farden, possibly branching branching out from the family which initially settled in Kirkcudbri K irkcudbright. ght. From all the information gathered has a number of individuals who are likely children of the above. Michael Dow McAlereache who has a son; Lasaryn McIlraith, in Kirkcudbright [iv, 818] respited for treasonable actions – 28th Jul 1550 PS1/24/5 Who has a son called Mathew Makilwraith, died May 1597, a testament 23 rd Jan 1601, who is found in Little Stockarton in Kirkcudbright Note the continual changes in spelling even within the same document when referring to various family members. Testament Dative and Inventar of Mathew Makilwraith Reference CC8/8/35 Mathew Makilwraith 23 January 1601 The testament dative and inventory concerning omissions of the goods, gear, sums of money and debts pertaining to the late Mathew Makilwraith in Little Stokartoun within the parishing of Kirkcudbright and Stewartry thereof at the time of his decease, decease, Who died in the month of May in the year of God 1597, Omitted out of his principal confirmed testament testamentar, as also set below the just value therein contained, By Jonet Wilsoun, his relict spouse, and William Mcilwraith their eldest son, executors testamentar confirmed to him by the Commissar of Edinburgh, As the same, of the date at Edinburgh Edinburgh the 14th day of Februarie in the year of God aforesaid, more at length bears out, 15 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Faithfully made and given up by the said William Mcilwraith, eldest lawfull son to the deceased, and executour dative concerning omissions discerned to his said late father by decree of the Commissar of Edinburgh, As the same decree, of the date at Edinburgh the 10th day of July in the year of God 1600, more at length bears out. In the first place the said late Mathew Mcilwraith had the goods, gear, sums of money and debts of the value and prices after following pertaining to him at the time of his deceis aforesaid, omitted out of his principal confirmed testament testamentar, as also set below the just value therein contained, that is to say, Item there is confirmed in the said principal confirmed testament testamentar 80 sheep, older and younger, at 26s 8d apiece, although there was then sixscore sheep, older and younger, and so omitted 50 sheep, older and younger, price of the piece or head 26s 8d; Sum 100 marks. Item there is confirmed in the said principal confirmed testament testamentar three work horses, two mares and one young stag, each piece thereof or head ten marks, albeit that each piece thereof was then worth £10. And so each piece of the said three work horses, two mares and young stag was set below the just value therein contained by 5 marks; Sum £16 13s 4d. Item more confirmed in the said principal confirmed testament testamentar seven young mares at £5, albeit the same were then worth ten marks. And so set below the just value therein contained; 33s 4d. Item there is omitted out of the said principal confirmed testament testamentar some horses; price thereof ten marks. Item there is more confirmed in the said principal confirmed testament testamentar, sown sown on the ground, 72 bolls of oats, Kirkcudbright measure, estimated to the third harvest, extending to 216 bolls of oats in the measure aforesaid, although there was then sown on the ground 76 bolls of oats in the measure aforesaid, which being one [?]schorne and three [?]schorn extended to twelve score bolls of oats, and so, set below the just value, 24 bollis of oats in the measure aforesai aforesaid, d, price of the boll with the fodder 5 marks; Sum £80. Item there is confirmed in the said principal confirmed testament testamentar, sown upon the ground, five bolls of barley, estimated to the fourth harvest, extending to twenty bolls of barley, albeit that there was then sown upon the ground six bolls of barley. And so omitted, one boll of barley sown upon the ground, estimated to the fourth harvest, extending to four bolls of barley, price of the boll with the fodder ten marks; Sum 40 marks.


Michael Michael Dow McAlereache, 1508 Lasaryn McIlraith, McIlraith, in Kirkcudbright Kirkcudbright [iv, 818] respited for treasonable actions – 28 Jul 1550 PS1/24/5 Mathew Makilwraith, died May 1597, 23.1.1601 In Little S tockarton in Kirkcudbright Kirkcudbright William McIlraith born circa 1570 Gilbert McIlwraith McIlwraith of "the Blair" born circa 1600, Hearth Tax records 1691 Matthew Colmonell, died1685 as Covenanter born circa 1630

He has a son called William who is born around 1570, given the information available it is highly likely that this is the father of Gilbert McIlwraith McIlwraith of "the Blair", b circa 1600, Hearth Tax records 1691 who in turn is father of Mathew McIlwraith, who died as a covenanter in 1685. He was courting Miss McEwan when captured. His epitaph in Colmonell Kirkyard is as follows; "I Mathew McIlraith in this Parish of Colmonell by bloody claverhouse I fell, who did command that I should die, for owning Convenanted Presbyterian, Presbyterian, my blood, a witness still doth stand "gainst all defections of this land" Next comes Malcolm Makclerach and Duncan Makgilliereach; It is difficult to determine who fathers the next generation, It is likely that Malcolm Makclerach had at least two sons; Donald Malcolm Duncan Makgilliereach Makgilliereach has the following; following; Patrick McIlwrick Allan McIlratht McIlratht Gilbert Mackilwraithe Mackilwraithe John McIlreoacht 17 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Nele M'Ilwraith Duncan McKilleway Thomas Andrew What you start to notice is a more recognisable spelling of “McIlwraith” starting to come in. As you will appreciate all children would have the same spelling spelling of the surname at birth, however as the authors have extracted information from written testimony then the surname changes as the clerk writes it. It is at this point in the tree that you start to gain an understanding of the land that the McIlwraith’s now inhabited. It was ruled by the feuding families of the Bargany and Cassilis Kennedys and with that came a complete disregard for law and order. First consider Duncan and Malcolm, Malcolm, children of Malcolm Makclerach. Donald McGillerewich McGillerewich [iii,2936] denounced as a rebel with others (the author does not know who these others are or why he was denounced as a rebel), 4 th Sep 1548, PS1/22/38, then Donald and Malcolm Makilwreid [vi, 264] respited (for assumed murder?), 12 th May 1568 PS1/37/92. Moving onto the family of Duncan Makgilliereach. Makgilliereach. Patrick McIlwrick at Cragneil [ii, 2474] ‘has been crewly slain’ at Craigneil by the now deceased James Kennedy in Schallauch of Glentig and his servant Neil Boyd. 24 th Mar 1537-38 – 1537-38 – PS1/11/55 PS1/11/55 “At Edinburgh, 24 Mar 1537/8 Ane lettre maid to Thomas Kennedy sone and apparend are to Alexander Kennedy of Bargany, his airis and assignais ane or ma, of the gift of all gudis movabill and unmovabill, dettis, takis, obligationis, soumes of money, and athiries quhatsumever, quhilkis pertenit to umquhill James Kennedy in the Schallauch of Glentig, and now pertenying or ony maner of way may pertene to our soverane lord be resoun of o f eschete, becaus he and Neil Boyd his servand, upoun the day of Marche instant [the day is not given] upoun auld feid and forthodit feleny, cruelly slew umquhill Patrik McIlwrik [MacUlrick] at [MacUlrick] at Cragneil, also pertenyng or may pertene to our soverane lord for breking of his fenssis and arrestis, and for deforceing of his officiaris, or ony uthir maner of way pertenyng or may pertene to our soverane lord be resoun of eschete; eschete; with power etc. Pe r Signaturum'.”

John McIlreoacht [vi, 538] respited for slaughter of John Grant in Ballindalloch, 7 th Mar 1569 PS1/38/36 Gilbert is killed in 1526, what is more worrying is that when you read an extract from the Privy Seal it appears he was murdered by his own brothers, as on the 18 th Jun 1526 “Duncan and Thomas and Neil (Nele) Makilwraith [I, 3386] – – respited for the murder of Cornelius de Machtema, Ducheman and for ‘all crime and action that may follow thereupon; and also for the slauchter of umquhile Martyne M artyne Kennedy and Gilbert Makilwraith…’ This seems to suggest that they killed Gilbert –– Gilbert –– (Privy (Privy Seal 1/8/140).



It is from such passages that the author has taken that all three are brothers, and giving the spelling similarities within the passage assumed Gilbert is also a brother. Nothing further of Nele is known, Thomas was listed as in Ottirky(n)noch (Altercannock). Duncan’s fate is further documented, Duncan Makwrarty and Katherine Leninaux his spouse [ii, 3110] – 3110] – confirmation confirmation 10 th Aug 1539 – 1539 – PS1/13/20as PS1/13/20as Donald McGilliwe [iii,508] [iii, 509] – is – is st referred to in the slaughter of Duncan by Moris McCawis and Donald Dow McWeyr, 31 Oct 1543 – 1543 – PS1/18/6. PS1/18/6. We have assumed that Duncan was the murderer in this instance. Duncan has two children – children – who both meet with sad endings. Possible revenge murders for Duncan’s previous acts? Per Duncan van Reijswoud in his book. This is the first real genealogical marriage ever recorded in Carrick, for a Mcilwraith. This suggests Duncan Mcilwraith to be born about 1518. Duncan McIlwryk, who is referenced to being alive 27 th Aug 1550 in Colmonell, however Duncan McKilleway, is listed as murdered [iv, 2579] 15 th Mar 1553 – PS1/27/12. – PS1/27/12. Therefore this family line ceases. Allan, Noted in the Protocol Book of Gavin Ros, May 1532, is not further mentioned as a result of conflict. It is worth noting at th is point that unless an individual individual has done something of note, infamy, or is on a land register or deed it is difficult to trace anything more about him. The authors can find no other trace of children from Allan.


The final son is Andrew Makilwraith, who is found in Pinnanet 22 nd Oct. 1538. Due to the information available with regards to the future family tree it is believed that it is Andrew and Pinnanent where the McIlwraiths’ McIlwraiths ’ laid the foundations for nearly 500 years of farming and business in Ayrshire.


Duncan Makgilliereach [I, 957] in Fandownyach. 3 July 1503 – PS1/3/115

Patrick , died Andrew c1537/38 Makilwraith

Allan Gilbert McIlratht Macki ckilwraithe

In Pinnanet nnanet 22. 10.1538 ‘has been crew ly slain’ at Craigneil by the now deceased James Kennedy in Schallauch of Glentig

Noted in the Protocol Book of Gavin Ros, May 1532

Alive 18.4.1526 18.4.1526 - killed lled by Cassilis

Joh John

Nele Duncan M'Ilwraith alive 1534

Thomas

respited for slaughter of John Grant in Ballindalloch, 7.3.1569 PS1/38/36

follow er of the earl of Cassilis, w as charged w ith murder murder in 1526

Duncan Duncan Makwrarty and Katherine Leninaux his spouse

Executor to Nele. Listed as in Ottirky(n)noch

Gilbert

Duncan McIlwryk

Rodger Mcilwraith in 1544 in Drummurchie

Gilbert Mackilwraith e died 9.4.1584

Alive 27.8.1550 27.8.1550 in Colmonell, Duncan McKillew ew ay, murdered murdered 1550 slian by [iv, 2579] 15.3.1553 – Robert Grahame PS1/27/12 PS1/27/12 [ looks like the of Knockdolian. place was Murthly]


From Pinnanent to Auchenflower. Auchenflower. This chapter starts from Andrew in Pinnanent in 1538. Today the farm of Pinnanent lies empty and the last inhabited cottage can be seen below. This was lived in up until around the 1990’ 1990’s (Photographs by Colin McNally)

This second photograph shows another building at Pinnanent which was obviously used as a store in more recent times, was possibly part of the early farm steading and is of a much earlier construction.

Andrew had a number of children including Nele McGilwreik, McGilwreik, who died on 14 th Feb 1579 in Ballochmorrie, Ballochmorrie, and Mareoun, who married Patrik Black, had 5 children and died in Dec 1612. He had a son named Andrew Mcilwraith Mcilwraith who was of Mekillschalothe, alive 1621, and per the testament below, who married Nanse. This was the second marriage of Nanse, as evidenced by her leaving her lands to her sons named “McCunnil”. It is believed that Dinmurchie starts to come into the McIlwraith farming landscape as Andrews son Rodger Rodger who is in Dinmurchie Dinmurchie in 1544.


Andrew Makilw akilwra raith ith In Pinnanet 22 Oct. 1538

Rodg Ro dg er Mcilwraith Mcilwraith in 154 4 in Drummurchie Gilbert Mackilwraithe died 9.4.1584, In Pinannet (leas e), Gilbert most likely in Darqu w ill (most likely Darqu allan) per Nele Testament 1579, marr ied Marga ret Mc Walker died

9th A pril 1584

Gilbert (noted as main beneficiary in his fathers will)

Martin Martin Mcilwraith in Drummurchie Drummurc hie alive 1572, In Trolog in 1583,

Gilbert Mcilwraith in Balloche died June 1638 married Margaret McCouchie

Patrik Mcilwraith of Drummurchie, died by 1657 married Dorothy Rosse daughter daughter of Andrew Ross e in Chape Chapeldonan ldonan

Testament Testamentar and Inventar of Nanse Mcilwraithe, Mcilwraithe, 1621 Reference CC9/7/18 The testament testamentar and inventory of the goods, gear, debts and sums of money which pertained to the late Nanse Mcilwraithe, spouse to Andrew Mcilwraithe in Mekill-schallothe Mekill-schallothe within the parishing of Girvan at the time of her decease, Who died in the month of June the year of God 1621, Faithfully made and given up by her own mouth, as her latter will and testament, of the date underwritten, more fully purports. Inventory Item the deceased and her said spouse had, at the time aforesaid, pertaining to them as their own proper goods and gear and in their possession, the goods and gear underwritten, of the values, quantities and prices after specified, specified, that is to say, Sum of the Inventory

£322 1s 4d

Debts owing out Item there was owing by the deceased and her spouse to the persons following the sums of money after specified, that is to say; To Andrew Mcilwraith in Mayboill £210 with £10. Item to Thomas T homas Mcilwraith Mcilwraith in Gerbroche £66 13s 4d with 40s. Item to Jonn Lyll In Cairegane £22. To Thomas [?]Crwmie In [?]Dalquhir’ £4 6s 8d. Item to Johnne Schaw in Straittoune £6 13s 4d. 24 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Item to Moreis McHerrow in Dowlarg’ 50s. Item to Wm. [?]Raasay In [?]Lolorge 31s. Item to Thomas T homas Kennedy Kennedy merchant 40s. Item to Johnne McMerlem in Ayr 26s 8d. Sum of the debts out

£319

There rests of free gear, debts deducted

£3 1s 4d

At Mekillschallothe Mekillschallothe the 19th day day of June in the year of God 1621, The which day the said Nanse Mcilwraith leaves Thomas Mccunnill In Schallothe, farmer there, and Duncan Mccunnill Mccunnill in Halfmarkland & Jo. Mccunnill in Knowinscheothe, her sons, her only executors and intromittors with her goods and gear. Item the said Nanse Mcilwraith, spouse to the said Andrew Mcilwraith, leaves a legacy to the said Andrew Mcilwraithe her husband the whole cereals which are growing upon the lands and ground of Mekillschalloche which appertain to the said Nanse and her husband. And these things were done before these witnesses, witnesses, Wm. Ingillis in [?]Balralver, Thomas Struane in Quhytclachrie, Donald McParge there, Johnne Mcilwraithe in Mekilschallothe, and Johnne McMillen, notary public, whom I have caused to write and subscribe this testament because I cannot write myself, At the day, year and and place aforesaid. aforesaid. It is thus subscribed; Thus it is. John McMillen Notary Public, required by the order of the said Nanssele, she not knowing how to write. At Glasgow the 6th day day of August 1621. Per the above they have a son John who is in Meikleshalloch in 1621. Richard has a son Gilbert Mackilwraithe who died 9th April 1584, Gilbert holds a lease of Pinnanent which which he more than likely inherits from his father and grandfather and prior to that Gilbert is most likely in Darquwill (most likely Darquallan) per Nele Testament 1579. Gilbert marries a Margaret McWalker. These testaments date back to 1584 and provide an insight to many of the names and families around this period. What it also shows that even in 1584 the McIlwraith’s have McIlwraith’s have built up large sums of funds and assets. The Testament is broken into two parts – – firstly the inventory and then value of the estate, the second the actual bequeath itself. Testament Testamentar and Inventar of Gilbert McIlwrayth, 1584 Reference CC8/8/13 Gilbert M c ilwray t Sixteenth of July 1584 25 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

The testament testamentar and inventar of the goods, gear, sums of money and debts pertaining to the late Gilbirt Makilwray t in Pinannet within the parishing of Dalry and sheriffdom of Ayr at the time of his decease, It is worth noting at this point that there is most likely a mistake within the transcription - where it states Dalry – read – read Daily, as the rest of the will does make reference to areas around Barr and the like – like – i.e. i.e. Knockeyne etc. Who died upon the 14 th day of June in the year of God 1584, Faithfully made and given up by himself in his dwelling house in Pinannet on the ninth day of April in the year of God aforesaid, Before these witnesses, Mathew Kennedy in Mulbowane, Gilbert Makfadreishe in Knokeyne, Roger M c ilwrraith ilwrraith in Bliskoug and Andro Blak in Claikmollet, with diverse others. In the first place the said late Gilbert M c ilwray t had the goods, gear, sums of money and debts of the values and prices after following pertaining pertaining to him h im at the time of his decease aforesaid, that is to say, Item in [?]Livsistoun with John M c ilwraiy t , one ox price £6. Item in Crolorg with Marteine M c ilwraiy t , one ox price £6. Item in Auchlelland with Thomas M c Alexander, one one ox price £6. Item with James M c ilwraiy t in Lagammannie, one quey of two years old, price 40s. Item with David M c mullerot in Fadinrooth, three queys of two years old, price apiece 40s. Sum £6. Item with Martene M c ilwray t in Drummurthie, two queys of two years old, price apiece 40s. Sum £4. Item with Moreis [?ie Maurice] M c mirrie in Drummorrane one flokkit [unstable, volatile] ox, price £6. Item with Robert M c cunnull in Clathreskoag, Clathreskoag, one striped s triped ox price £6. Item with Andro M c martene in Drummurthie, one ewe price 16s. Item with James M c ky t nay in Over Lagammannie, 12 old sheep price apiece 16s. Sum £9 12s. Item sown upon the ground and lands of Pinannet and Claikmalloch, 20 bolls of oats estimated to the third harvest, extending to 60 bolls of oats, price of the boll with the fodder 2 marks. Sum £80. Item the said Gilbert has the sum of three hundred marks in money. Item in utensils and domestic items, with the apparel of his body, estimated to ten pounds. 26 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Sum of the inventory

£826 8d

Here follow the debts owing to the deceased Item there was owing to the said late Gilbert M c ilwray t by James Watsoun in Glasgow £10. Item by John Munro in Craigarrie Craigarrie 13 marks. m arks. Item by David M c mullerot in Straban for skins 8 marks. Item by Andro Blak in Claikmallot £3. Item by Andro M c martene in Drummurthie for one ox, 10 marks. Item more by him of borrowit seed, 33s 4d. Item by James Bannatyne there, 12 marks. Item by Martene M c ilwray t in Drummurthie £4. Item by Henry M c ilwray t two marks. Item by Margaret Chalmeris, Lady Crochrog, for the [?]Want of Drummurthie there, two years as she [?]punttit to the deceased each year 10 marks. Sum 20 marks. Item by Henry M c Ilwraith two marks. Sum of the debts owing to the deceased

£89 2s 6d

Sum of the inventory with the debts

£915 3s 2d

Here follow the debts owing by the deceased Item there was owing by the said late Gilbert M c ilwray t to Roger M c ilwray t in Balskeng 32s. Item to John M c Walker in Gamorcrowco t 13 marks. Item to Walter Kennedy of Knokdune and his wyf £14. Item to Moreis M c crakane, tailor, 16 marks. Item to callot [?ie young] Susann M c ilwray t for her wages 16s. Item to James M c ilwray t for his wages 20s. Item to Adam Loyd of Pinkhill for his Whitsunday and Martinmas meal in the year 84 and for the tithes thereof £12. Item to Gilbert Kennedy of Girtommanes for Claikmollo t for the said terms’ meals and tithe thereof 28 marks.


Item to Martene M c ilwray t for lack of one mare, agreed on by him with the deceased, £4. Item to Adam Boyd of Pinkhill one boll of oats, price thereof 40s, and one boll of meal, price thereof 4 marks. Item to Margaret Chalmers, Lady Crochrog, Crochrog, for one boll of meal, 5 marks. m arks. Item to Thomas M c ilwray t , son to John M c ilwray t , for his gear, 43 marks. Sum of the debts owing by the deceased

£108 16d

There remains remains of free gear, the debts deducted

£807 22

To be divided in three parts. The deceased’s part is £269 7d Here follow the deceased’s legacies legacies and latter will At Pinannet the ninth ninth day of April April in the year of God 1584 years. years. The which day the said Gilbert M c ilwraith in Pinannet made his legacy and latter will as follows, that is to say, Item I make and ordain my executors Gilbert M c ilwraith my son, Margaret M c Walker my spouse, and Duncan M c Walker my son in law, equally to intromit and dispone upon my goods and gear as they will answer to the eternal God at the Latter Day. Item I leave my part of the whole goods, gear and corn aforenamed, and debts owing to me, my debts and legacies being paid, to be equally divided between my said son Gilbert M c ilwray t and the said Duncan M c Walker my son in law. I ordain the debts to be paid and [?]carre out of the whole head [ie out of all goods] before any division. And in case my wife Margaret M c Walker be with child, or if there be any more children than the said Gilbert my son and the said Duncan’s wife, I ordain that child or children that my wife be [?]pregnant with, if any be, to be equally proportionate with the said Gilbert and Duncan’s wife. Item I leave to the said Duncane M c Walker my lease, which I have of the Laird of Girtommanis, of the two-mark-land of Claikmollo t , the whole right and kindness [right of tenure by virtue of ancestral occupation] thereof, So that he may possess and use the same after my decease, which lease is for 11 years after Whitsunday in the year 1577, And I transfer my whole right, interest and kindness of the said lease and land to the said Duncan for ever. I leave to the Laird of Girtommanes, to stand kind to the said Duncane to whom I have disposed my lease, twenty pounds. [ie [ie to allow the transfer of the lease]


I leave to Adam Boyd of Pinkhill, or whoever falls to be his heir, in cais he [ie the Laird] cannot [make the transfer] due to frinitie [?frailty], to be good to my son, twenty pounds.

I leave leave to Ma Marg aret Chalme Chalmers rs , L ady C rochrog , s he keeping keeping her promis promis e to to my wife and children concerning the mark-land of Drummurthie, twentie marks, and I dis charg charg e her her that that 20 ma marks s he owes owes me if s he keep keep hir promis e as as I have s aid, or els els e otherwis otherwis e, if s he keep it not, not, I ordain her nothing . This is one of the most important statements within any McIlwraith testimony that anyone will come across and has created no end of research, speculation and discussion. To Andro M c ilwray t , steward to James Scott in Mayboll, one two year old quey. I leave to the said Andro’s sister one stirk. To Andro Makmartene’s wife the two marks and one half that her good man owes me. Item to John Brown in Layne the black stot that is in Claikmollot . I ordain my executor to be my surety to Thomas M c ilwray t , son to John M c ilwray t , for the price of the gear which I received with him, 44 marks. Item to Hector M c caithie one ewe hog. Item to his mother Margaret M c ilwray t one boll of meal. Item to Henry M c ilwray t one stot, his [?]plenth, and I discharge him the two marks he owes me. I leave to Martene M c ilwray t the six marks himself owes me. Item to Gilbert Munro, son to Adam Munro in Bar, one quey stirk. Item to Gilbert M c ilwray t , son to Martene M c ilwray t in Drummurthie, two hogs that his father has and owes me. I leave and ordain my wife to have my son Gilbert in guiding and keeping until his perfect age if she marry not, and the right and lease that I have of my steading of Pinannet I leave to my wife so long as she remains a widow after my decease. I ordain my good son Duncan M c Walker to oversee and intromet with the said Gilbert my son’s gear during his minority, and to be answerable to him therefor, and to put the sum to profit, except one hundred marks North [ie Scots money], to remain with the said steading of Pinannet and my wife so long as she remains a widow. I leave and ordain the Laird of Garvommanis, Adam Boyd of Pinkhill, and the Lady Crochrog my Mistress, Mathew Kennedy in Mulbowane, and Gilbert M c fadreishe in Knokeyne, to be oversmen and overseers to my children. I leave to my sone Gilbert the said three hundred marks money. 29 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

I leave to my said son Gilbert the inside furnishings and insight of my house and ordain the same to remain with my wife so long as she remains a widow, and to be sure that she deliver the same again as good as they are now. And give and commit the intromission intromission with the same to the said Gilbert M c illwray t , son, Margaret M c Walker, relict, and Duncan M c Walker, son in law, executors testamentar to the said late Gilbert M c illwray t , However, the most interesting aspect of the Gilbert testament (and hence why it is included in full) is that there is a promise from Margaret Chalmers for Dinmuchrie. Margaret Chalmers, or Lady Trochrig, appears to have "owned" Dinmurchie in 1584, which in 1572 was owned by Adam Boyd, her nephew. Dinmurchie, was tenanted by the McIlwraiths at this point; however, it passed into McIlwraith ownership after this time. Why Lady Trochrig was obliged to “sell” or “pass over” the estate is something that still puzzles the authors, however to the McIlwraiths it did pass. Margaret Chalmers, as noted within the Deans of Riccarton’s writings, married the Grandson of the 3rd Lord Boyd. We have not as yet been able to determine why this promise was made, however given the family’s future association with Dinmurchie, it is certain that there was something in the request. Gilbert (the son of Gilbert who dies 1584) had a large family, many of which are mentioned in the above testament; Hew [Hugh] Makilwraithe, alive 1632, married Jonet McIlwraithe (Daughter of John in Shaloch, and in turn the son of Thomas in Auchensoul). This possibly could be the Joanne McIlwrayth in the charters of The Abbey of Crossrauguel (see below).


Alexander Makilwraith, Makilwraith, probably born in Ayr, married Bessie Reidpaith on 30 th Jul 1595 and then secondly Agnes Bothwik on 7 th Aug 1604. He was noted in document as witness with regards to the lands of Dinmurchie. It is possible that this is the same Alexander who requested money from the Ayr Burgh in 1562.

Robert Makilwraith marries 16 th Jun 1596 Agnes Barnisfather, whose family move to Edinburgh. John McIlwraithe dies in 1637 in Shalloch, his son Thomas is found in Auchensoul, and Thomas McIlvricke is in Altercannoch in 1659. The Pinannent connection connection does not disappear th as John Mcilwrick married 18 Jun 1778 Mary McClmont in Pinannent. Lease of Land of Altirkinoche, Altirkinoche, Cassillis to Mcilvrik, 1627, NAS ref GD25/9/73/87 At Maybole, 17 May 1627. Contract between John, Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy, and J ohn Mc ilvrik in A lterk terk inoch . The Earl acknowledges the sum of 100 marks in gressum, And grants the two-mark-land and a half of Altirkinoche in in the earldom of Carrick and parishing of Colmonell for the term term of 19 years. For which reason the said John M c ilvrik ilvrik binds himself to pay 100 marks annual rent. Written by Hew Kennedy. Witnesses John Shaw of Ballak and the said Hew Kennedy. 31 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

And secondly secondly Lease of Land of Altirkinoche, Altirkinoche, Cassillis to Mcilvrik, 1627 NAS ref GD25/9/73/87 - 00001 At Maybole, 17 May May 1627. Contract between John, Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy, and John M c ilvrik in Alterkinoch. The Earl acknowledges the sum of 100 marks in gressum, And grants the two-mark-land and a half of Altirkinoche in the earldom earldom of Carrick and parishing of Colmonell for the term of 19 years. For which reason the said John M c ilvrik ilvrik binds himself to pay 100 marks annual rent. Written by Hew Kennedy. Witnesses John Shaw of Ballak and the said Hew Kennedy. There is a further son John who can be found in Altercannock Altercannock in 1659.

Thomas in Altercannoch has two sons John Mcilwrick 1692 – 1724 – 1724 who are in Auchensoul, and Daniel who dies in 1685 as a result of his covenanting activities. (See the Covenanter chapter for further information). Thomas’s family family continue to farm in South South Ayrshire for a further 150 150 years. John 1692 – th 1724 has two two sons, John Mcilwrick Mcilwrick married married in Pinnanet Pinnanet 18 Jun 1778 to Mary McClmonth, and a son called Gilbert Mcilwrick who marries Enable McClure, Married in Laigh Altergannoch. Gilbert is alive 1787 when he erected a stone to Daniel Mcilwrick (See again the covenanting chapter). In 1797 Gilbert McIlwrick is in Altercannock noted in the payment of the Horse Tax. It is highly likely that Gilbert's Gilbert's family continued at Altercannock Altercannock for come considerable time as by 1872 according to the Scotland’s Owners of Land and Heritage 1872 Page 24. Gilbert has four children, Robert, Helen, David and Andrew and by 1872 Gilbert a great grandson grandson possibly possibly has built the farm to 550 acres. McIlwricks McIlwricks still farm in and around the area to this day.


The John McIlwraith mentioned as in New Luce with 2,270 acres is not someone who the authors have been able to trace with any great certainty. It is possible that he was descended directly directly from the same tree as the last son noted in the next paragraph, Martin in Dinmurchie in 1572. Martin’s great great grandson was Thomas in Balmurrye, whose father was Thomas Mcilwraith in Ardmillane, alive 1614 and who died at Balloch in 1636. To this day McIlwricks still farm at Ballmurray. To understand the next in the family line, it is best to note in Gilberts will “Item “ Item I make and ordain my executors Gilbert Mcilwraith my son, Margaret McWalker my spouse” spouse” , In the will there is mention of Martin Mcilwraith in Dinmurchie alive 1572, who is possibly in Trolog 1583. He is mentioned in the previous testaments and is the son of the above Gilbert, grandson of Gilbert who died in 1584.

Martin Mcilwraith in Drummurchie alive 1572, In Trolog in 1583,

Gilbert Mcilwraith wraith in Balloche oche Patrick Patrick Makil Makilwraith wraithee di died June 1638 in Maybole

Andrew Mcilwraith wraith in Maybole

Thomas Thomas Mcilwrait wraithh alive ve 1647

Jonet Jone t Mcilwraith

Gilbert Gilbe rt Mcilwraith

John Mcilwraith of Auch Auchen enmm mmaaddie ddie

Patoun Mcilwraith died by 1614

alive 1584 in Pinnanet

m Margaret MacFadzeane

Thomas Mcilwraith in Ardmillane Ardmi llane died died at at Ball Balloch o ch 1636 1636 married Jonet [Janet] Abercrumbi

Martin has a son Gilbert (note the continued naming convention), and it is with Gilbert that starts a strong connection with the farm of South Balloch at the Barr.


Towards South Balloch (by Colin McNally 2011) Gilbert Mcilwraith in Balloche married Margaret McCouchie and died in June 1638, leaving the following testament which provides some excellent excellent family information. information.

Testament Dative and Inventar of Gilbert McKilwraith, 1640 Reference CC9/7/28 The testament dative and inventory of the goods, gear, debts and sums of money which appertained to the late Gilbert McKilwraith in South Balloche within the parishing of Daylie at the tyme of his decease, Who died in the month of June 1638, Faithfully made and given up by Margaret McCouchie, his relict and executrix dative surrogate, in place of Mr Johnne Herbertsonne, procurator fiscal of the Commissariot of Glasgow, Who is executrix dative decreed to the deceased’s goods, gear and debts by decree of the Commissar of Glasgow, the penultimate day of July 1640, as the same bears out. And of his own consent acted himself as cautioner and surety for Margaret McCouchie, relict and executrix dative surrogate and confirmed to the late Gilbert McKillwraith McKillwraith in South Balloche, Martin acquired the tenancy of Dinmurchie around 1621, this was acquired from Thomas of Dinmurchie, a Bargany Kennedy, Dinmurchie being the birthplace of Sir James Dalrymple First Viscount Stair 1619. From 1614 through to 1640 the author can trace Gilbert as being in South Balloch. Reversion by Gilbert Mcilwraith Mcilwraith in Balloch, 1630 To John, Earl of Cassillis of the lands of Auchnerine and others 34 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

At Edinburgh, on the the twelfth day of June June 1630, The reversion following was produced by Gilbert Neilson of Craigcaffie, advocate, and registered in the books of general registry or session appointed for registration of sasines, reversions and other writings in the 28 th book thereof, following following the law, conforming with the act of parliament made [concerning the same] in the year 1617, whereof the tenor follows. Be it known to all men by these present letters, Me, Gilbert Makil[wraith] in Balloche, For as much as albeit one noble and [potent] Earl, John, Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy etc, By [virtue] of one contract of alienation, of the date the twentieth day of May 1640, passed between his [lordship] on the one [part], and other parties chartered and enfeoffed thereupon, Has sold, alienated and disposed to me, [my heirs] and assigns, heritably, All and the whole of the forty shilling land of Mekill and Litill Barrily is possessed by Jonnet D..., relict of the late William Orr, and by Thomas Ramsay ... And the whole of the two mark land of Auchneri Auchnerine ne occupied ... M c targrit, With all and sundry the parts, appendages and appurtenances of the aforesaid lands lying within the pr[ecincts?] of the College of Mayboll, in the Earldom of Carrick and Sheriffdom of Ayr, and at more length contained in the contract, [charter] and enfeoffment made and granted to me thereupon. In witness whereof, written by J ohn Makilwraith Maki lwraith in Mayboll, At Cassillis Cassillis on the twentyeighth twentyeighth day of May, the year year of God 1630, Before these witnesses, John Makilvane of Grinbet and the said John Makilwraith writer he[reof]. It is thus subscribed. Gilbert M c ilwreth, W. ... witness, Jo: Makilwreth witness. We also have him listed as being in Pinnanent (see the reference in the earlier testament for his wife to live at the steading of Pinnanent), Glegepe and in Meikle and Little Barclyes and Auchinnerne in in 1630. It is at this point in time that you see the McIlwraiths starting to move from being “single” crofting style farmers to being tenants in multiple locations. locations. Gilbert has four sons; Andrew Mcilwraith, Mcilwraith, who came to light as being in Maybole, alive 160 6 – 1647, – 1647, and who was married to Marion Caldwell. It is highly likely that Andrew’s move to Maybole was in relation to his marriage to Marion Caldwell of Bardristinoch, Maybole, married on 27 th Jan 1606. Andrew appears to have prospered in Maybole, Maybole, he was in White and Black Gannocks, Glencraigie Glencraigie by 1614, and in Baldriftmoch (Maybole) by 1618.


Contract of Wadset between Oliver Kennedy of Glennoch and Isabella Wallace his spouse and Andrew Andrew M’Ilwraith in Maybole over over the the Lands of White and Black Ganochs – – Over Over and and Nether Glencraigie etc. 19 & 21 November 1614 November 1614 GD25/8/82 GD25/8/82 19 19 November 1614. 1614 . At Mayboill and Glenmuk the nineteenth and twenty-first days of November the year of God 1614 it is appointed, agreed and finally contracted betwixt these parties To wit Oliver Kennedy of Glenmuk and Issobell Wallace his spouse and also the said Oliver taking the burden on him for the said Issobell his spouse on the one part and Andro M c ilwraith in Mayboill on the other part part in manner, form and effect following. following. That is to say forasmuch as the said Oliver and Issobell spouses being infeft heritably in all and whole the five merkland of White and Black Ganochs, the five merkland of Glentairlie, five merkland of Over and Nether Glencraigs and twenty shillingland of Wester Largs lying within the Barony of Straitoun, Earldom Earldom of Carrik and Sheriffdom of Air. Likewise umquhile umquhile George Kennedy Kennedy of c Balm clanoquhen and umquhile Jonet Kennedy his spouse and umquhile George Kennedy of Glenmuk predecessors predecessors to the said Oliver were infeft therein. Redeemable upon sundry sundry reversions containing containing in the whole the sum of eleven hundred merks money of this realm for redemption redempti on of all the said lands as the said Oliver and Issobell’s rights and securities thereof and reversions granted for redemption of the s ame more fully purports. Therefore the said Oliver and Issobell spouses both in one voice and with one consent sell and heritably dispone to the said Andro M c ilwraith, his heirs and assignees whatsoever the forenamed five merkland of White and Black Ganochs, five merkland of Glentairlie, five merkland of Over and Nether Glencraigs and twenty shillingland of Wester Largs with houses, yards, biggings, parts, pendicles and appurtenances thereof and shall infeft the said Andro and his aforesaid therein in contentment hereafter by charter, precept and saising following thereupon (titulo (titulo oneroso) duly made subscribed by them, holding of them and their heirs for the present in free blanch for the yearly payment to them of two pennies blanch when the same is required. And for the said Andro’s better security security in the premises the said Oliver Kennedy Kennedy and Issobell Wallace his spouse make and constitute and each one of them conjointly and severally severally their lawful procurators to compear before a noble and potent lord Johnne Earl of Cassillis Lord Kennedy etc. superior of all the said lands of White and Black Ganochs, Over and Nether Glencraigs, Glentairlie Glentairlie and Wester Largs and {….} In Witness whereof (these presents written by Johnne Kennedy notary in Mayboill) days, year, month and places aforesaid before these witnesses at Mayboill: Johnne Kennedy servant to the Lady Culzeane, James Gawdie in Mayboill, Duncane M c Walker in Havincrubocht, John M c Cane younger in Mayboill, John Nevin in Balchristine and the said John Kennedy notary. And before these witnesses witnesses at Glenmuck: the same aforesaid aforesaid c witnesses together with Johnne M Alexan Alexander der and Gilbert Kennedy (Signed) Isabell Wallace with my hand Gilbert Kennedy witness Oliver Kennedy(?) Johnne Kennedy notary affirms this aforesaid subscription subscription c John M Alexand Alexander er witness Johnne Kennedy witness Duncane M c Quikane in Havencruboche witness Johnne M c Come witness Gilbert Kennedy M c Quaker in Bellimour witness


Andrew has a number number of children, children, who mainly are born in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Susana Makilwraith Makilwraith 26th May 1596 at Edinburgh Alexander Makilwraith Makilwraith born prior 22nd Aug 1596 1596 Robert Makilwraith Makilwraith 24th Feb 1601 at Edinburgh Margaret Makilwraith Makilwraith 18th Dec 1603 at Edinburgh Agnes Makilwraith Makilwraith 6th Mar 1606 at Edinburgh Andrew Makilwraith Makilwraith 6th Nov 1608 at Edinburgh Edinburgh Hugh who is in Dinvin 1632, assumed Elder brother of John based on him being his attorney And lastly John who is noted as writer (read Notary for writer) in Edinburgh 1626, a writer in Maybole 1629, and of Dinvin by 1620, when in the same year he marries 28 th Dec 1620 in Edinburgh Isobell Coutts. He is also located in Pinmore between 1632 - 37, listed as notary public in Maybole 1644 – 58, however “of “o f ” Dinvin per sasines 1632. It is worth noting that on one of the sasines when John is acting as notary - Mcilvayne of Grimmet is the witness. Therefore he is mixing with some of the wealthiest landowners in the Carrick Carrick area at the time. Andrew Mcilwra Mcilwraith ith in Maybole Maybole alive alive 1606 1647 married Marion Caldwell Of Baldriftmoch (Maybole) (Maybole) by 1618, In White and Black Gannocks, Gannocks, G lencraigie 1614. marries by 1618 Marion Cauldwell Hugh in Dinvin 1632

John

Of Dinvin by 1620. Noted as writer writer in Edinburgh 1626, writer in Maybole Maybole 162 9, notary notary public in Maybole Maybole 1644 - 58. married 28.12.162 0 in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Isobell Coutts

Helen Married Married J ames Cochrane, Merchant Maybole, Heir to Thomas died April 1666

Thomas Born Edinburgh 24.1.1622, I n Maybole Maybole 163 6, 1644, 1647-49 "of" Dinvin. Of Blair 1647, Of Jamestoun in Turnberrie Turnberrie 1648 , died circa 1657

Andrew Born Edinburgh 2.9.1624

This again provides some strong, yet time distant evidence that the McIlwraiths still acted as Bards in the 17th century, as they had done for the McLeods and McDonalds on Skye. John died circa 1646 based on sasine transferred to Thomas his son, born Edinburgh 24 th Jan 1622.


Thomas is listed as being in Maybole 1636, 1644, 1647-49 and is listed "of" Dinvin by 1642, and 1657-58 Sasine of Thomas Mckilwraith of Lands of Eister Dinvine, 1636 NAS ref RS12/6/496r - 497r Sasine of Thomas Mckilwraith Mckilwraith of the £4 land of Eister Dinvine Dinvine At Irwing, 1 July 1636, May it be evident to all that on 10 June 1636, In the presence of me, a notary public, and the witnesses underwritten, Appeared the young man Thomas Mkilwrath, son of the late John M k ilwrath, notary in Maybole, having in his hands a certain precept of sasine sasine subscribed by by David Craufurd in Maybole, Which deed of sasine David Bannatyne, currier in Maybole, the baillie named in the precept, presented to the aforenamed Thomas M k ilwraith, who reverently accepted it, and asked me to record it, the tenor of which follows. Greetings to David Bannatyne, currier in Maybole, my baillie. You should deliver sasine of the four-mark-land of Eister Dinvine to Thomas M k ilwrath. Written by John Schaw, notary public in Maybole. Dated 6 June 1636.. After reading which which precept of sasine David Bannatyne the baillie baillie delivered sasine of the four-pound-land of Eister Dinvine, in the earldom of Carrick and the Sheriffdom of Ayr, to Thomas M k ilwraith, Upon all of which Thomas M k ilwrai ilwraith th asked me to make a public instrument. I, John Schaw, clerk of the Diocese of Glasgow, was present and wrote this public instrument with my own hand. Further information in Thomas can be found in the following Thomas McIlwraith 1649 NAS ref GD15/5/27d Memorandum Memorandum to the Earl of Cassilles Cassilles of the writings that are subscribed betwixt his Lordship c and Thomas M ilwraith 17 Feb r 1649 Memorandu[m] to the Earl of Cassill[es] of the conditions whereupon his Lordship and Thomas M c ilwraith are agreed, and of the writings inscribed between them, by either of them to the other. First the said Earl has subscribed a charter to the said Thomas containing precept of sasine for enfeoffing him in the 5-mark-land of White and Black Ganoches, the 5-mark-land of Glentairlie, the 5-mark-land of Glencraigis, and the 20s-land of Largis, lying within the parishing of Strattoun and Sheriffdom of Ayr, redeemable upon the payment of 1150 marks, which then was dated 17 February F ebruary instant, and whereof the Earl has a double. c Item Thomas M ilwraith has subscribed and delivered to the Earl a discharge and renunciation of the foresaid wodsett by redeeming[?] a procuracie of resignation in my Lordship’s Lordship’s hands as a remembrance of the date of the charter. charte r. Item the said Thomas has also made and subscribed to the s aid Earl an obligation to enfeoff himself upon the foresaid charter and being enfeoffed to deliver the said charter and the sasine therein duly registered to the Earl, and also to ratify the foresaid renunciation, and if need be to grant a new renunciation renunciation which ticket is of the aforesaid date.


Item the said Thomas has also subscribed to the said Earl a discharge of the whole bygone annual rent due for the principal sum of 2000 marks which is wodsett upon the land of Jamiestoun within the Barony of Turnberry, and that of all years and terms preceding the date of November 1648 last bypast before the aforesaid date, For granting of which three writings aforesaid by the said Thomas the Earl has subscribed a bond to the said Thomas making mention of the aforesaid wodset of 1150 marks and of the annual rents, and of the annual rent of the said 2000 marks preceding the said date of Whitsunday last bypast inclusive, inclusive, And that Thomas has renounced the wodsett of 1150 marks and the whole annual rent thereof, and has discharged the other annual rent due for that 2000 marks, which being computed extends together to 300 marks. And again in in the following following of 1649 Thomas McIlwraith 1649 NAS ref GD15/5/27d Thereupon the Earl obliges himself to pay the said sum of 3000 marks at Lammas next to come, 1699, with annual rent from that date to the said term of Lammas, with £300 of penalty, with with annual rent after Lammas. Lammas. Item also the said Earl has made and subscribed a declaration to the said Thomas whereby the Lord has declared that Thomas M c ilwraith ilwraith has given satisfaction to his Lordship for receiving him and his vassels in the lands of Dunevin. Therefore the Earl declares he shall receive him therein. Item the Earl has given a precept to his chamberlain chamberlain Gilbert Kennedy directing him to c pay to Thomas M ilwraith £281 10s 10d which the Earl confesses he is indebted to Thomas by his bond given by his Lordship to him. And per the 1636 Sassine he is listed as “younger” of Dinvin 1636. Of White and Black Gannocks, Glencraigie, Glencraigie, Wester Largs, Glenterlie. Glenterlie. And is then listed listed as of Jamestoun in Turnberrie Turnberrie 1648, Sasine of Thomas Mcilwraith of Two-mark-land of Jamestoun in Turnberrie, 1648 NAS ref RS12/8/200 On 22 December 1648 Thomas M c ilwraith of Dunevin produced the instrument of sasine following. In the presence of me, the notary public underwritten, and the witnesses underwritten, underwri tten, Appeared Thomas M c ilwraith of Dunevin, having in his hands a certain precept of sasine called a clare constat from John, Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy, in favour of the aforenamed Thomas M c ilwraith as son and undoubted heir of a certain John M c ilwraith, notary in Maybole, For the enfeoffment of the said Thomas M c ilwraith in the two-mark-land of Jamestoun, lying in the Bailiwick of Carrick and Sheriffdom of Ayr, Which certain precept the said Thomas gave to Fergus Egleschein in Jamestoune, the baillie named therein to deliver sasine, requiring requiring him to do so. Which certain sasine the said baillie reverntly accepted, and is as follows. John, Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy, sends greetings to his beloved Fergus Eglischein in Jamestoune, whom he makes his baillie. Be it known that a certain John M c ilwrai ilwraith, th, notary public in Maybole, father of Thomas c M ilwraith of Dunevin, the bearer of these presents, died last seised of the two-mark-land of our Barony of the lands of Turnberrie called Jamestoune, lying lying in the Bailiwick of Carr ick and Sheriffdom of Ayr, And that the said Thomas M c ilwreth is the lawful and next heir of the same late John M c ilwreth his father. 39 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Therefore we order you to deliver sasine, real and c orporal possession thereof to the aforenamed Thomas M c ilwraith as son and undoubted heir of the late John his father, subject to a reversion to us for 2000 marks Scots money. Written by John Schaw, notary public in Maybole. At Cassilli Cassillis, s, 27 November 1648. Witnesses: the said John Schaw and John Campbell in Barnefurd. After the reading of which precept of sasine the said Fergus Eglischeine delivered sasine, real and corporal possession of the said lands of the Barony of Turnberrie in the town of Jamestoune to Thomas M c ilwraith. Upon all of which the said Thomas M c ilwrait ilwraith h asked me to make a public instrument. instrument. These acts were done upon the said ground at the mansion of Jamestoune at 2 PM. Witnesses present: John M c clarine in Dalquhat, John Boyd in Jamestoune and Andrew Stewart Stewart in the same place. place. I, John Schaw, Clerk of the Diocese of Glasgow, was present and wrote this public instrument. and of the Blair 1647, Renunciation Renunciati on by Thomas Mcilw Mcilwraith raith to David Dav id Kennedy of 40s-lands of Blair, 1647 NAS ref RS12/8/75 Renunciation; Renunciati on; Thomas M c ilwraith to David Kennedy of Balmoclanoquhane The renunciation underwritten was produced by John Kennedy, notary in Maybole, on 1 November 1647. Be it known to all men that I, Thomas M c ilwraith of Dunevin, lawful son and heir served and returned to the late John Mcilwraith, notary in Maybole, Forasmuch as by virtue of a contract and appointment made between the late David Kennedy of Barmoclannoquhane, with consent and assent of the late Jonet Kennedy his spous, on the one part, And the late Andro M c ilwraith in Maybole, my grandfather, and the said late John M c ilwrait ilwraith h my father, on the other part, Dated the 28 th and 5 th days of November and December 1626 respectively, The said late David Kennedy, with consent of his spouse, for the sum of 2000 marks Scots money paid and advanced by the said late Andrew and John M c ilwraith, Sold to the said late Andrew M c ilwrai ilwraith th in life-rent, and to the said late John M c ilwraith my father in fee heritable, and his heirs and assigns whatsoever, All and the whole their lands of Blair, and the appurtenance appurtenances s thereof, lying within the parishing of Daylie, Earldom Earldom of Carrick, and Sheriffdom Sheriffdom of Ayr, Redeemable Redeemabl e by the late David Kennedy for the sum of 2000 marks, And they were duly enfeoffed therein by an instrument of sasine s asine under the seal and subscription subscripti on of John Campbell Campbell,, notary public, dated 26 March 1627, And a precept of clare constat was granted to me, the said Thomas M c ilwraith, by David Kennedy, now of Barmoclannoquhane [NB he is clearly umquhyl , umquhyl , “late”, at the start of the deed], as lawful nearest son and heir of the said late John M c ilwraith my father, on 12 January 1644, under the seal and subscription of John Schaw, notary public in Maybole; Now, for certain sums of money paid and delivered unto me at the making hereof by the said David Kennedy now of Barmoclannoquhane, of which I acknowledge receipt, Have renounced, quitclaimed and discharged the said David Kennedy from his obligation concerning the 40s-land of Blair, and I have delivered the contract of wodsett and the precept of clare constat back to him. Written by John Schaw, notary in Maybole, At Maybole, 29 December December 1646, 1646, 40 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Before these witnesses, John Stewart of Dunduff, Joseph Richart in Dunduff, and the said John Schaw, notary. It is worth pointing out the name of the Notary John Schaw- the name Schaw become much more to the fore within the Mcilwraith tree when you look at the McIlwraith’s of Balcletchie. Before he dies circa 1657 Thomas’s Sister Helen Helen is named as heir. She marries James Cochrane, Merchant Maybole, she dies April 1666 leaving 5 children. It is worth noting that in 1659 John McIlwraith of Dinmurchie is listed as owner of Dinvin. 1657, November 13 Instrument of Sasine by John Earl of Cassi Cassillis, llis, in favour of Helen Mcilwraith, spouse of James Cochrane, merchant in Maybole, heir to Thomas Mcilwraith of Dunevin, her brother following Precept of Sasine dated 11 November 1657. Mentions Jamistoun in barony barony of Carrick. Carrick. [SOURCE NAS GD25/5/92] GD25/5/92] Also 1658, May 15 Letters of Renunciati Renunciation on by Helen Mcilwrai Mcilwraith, th, daughter of John Mcilwraith, writer, and as heir to Thomas Mcilwraith of Dinevin, her brother, and James Cochrane, merchant, Maybole, her spouse, spouse, to John, Earl of Cassillis, following following on contract of wadset of 26 November 1625 and Sasines - GD25/8/352 and GD25/5/92 [SOURCE NAS GD25/8/460] John McIlwraith in Fardenroch, he marries Jonet McJorrow. They have no children based on the testament dated 1662 Testament Testamentar and Inventar of John Mcillwraith, 1662 Reference CC9/7/32 THE testament testamentar and inventar of the goods, gear, debts and sums of money which pertained to the late John M c illwraith of Fardenroch within the parishing of ...ells at the time of his decease, who died in the m onth of December last past, 1661, Faithfully made and given up by the defunct’s own mouth as his testament and latter will of the date ... ... ... at more length makes mention. mention. Sum of the debts in Sum of the inventar and debts

£136 12s 8d £940 9s 4d

Debts owing out To Jo. M c ilwraith in Schalloch £16 13s 4d To My Lord Barganie ... ... for rent and profits[?] £38 To Katherin M c cew[?] of fee £9 13s 4d To J[onet?] Robinson[?] of fee £4 6s 8d 41 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

To Martha Keith[?]of fee 33s 4d To John ... his servant ... ... To ... ... his servant 20s Sum of the debts out

£245 0s 8d

Rests of free gear, debts deducted

£695 8s 8d

Follows the dead’s latter will and legacies The ... and latter will of Jo. M c ilwraith in Fardenroch made and given up in manner following. First I nominate and constitute Jonet M c Jorrow my loving spouse my only executrix and universal intromittrix with my whole goods and gear, debts and sums of money, And I nominate and appoi appoint nt John M c ilwraith in Drummurchie, Thomas M c Jorrow of Barr, Andro M c ilwraith in Shalloch and Jo n. Chenes[?] in Hill[ow?]chappell with power to them or any three of them to be overseers that[?] concerning concerning my children. As also he nominates his goodaughter Margine...[?] Margine...[?] ... with these said abovewri abovewritten tten that they see my said executrix do my duty[?] to my children and if she shall be c... with a husband that they make distribution betwixt her and my children.Item by the ... ... ... of Fardenroch the ... day of November 1660 and was given up by his ... ... and because ... Jo. ...son ... ... and has ... for him before these witnesses Jo n M c Larg[?] in Princ...[?], Jon M c illwraith in Drummurchie and John Chenes[?] in Hill[ow?] chappell John Paterson notary subscribing for the said John M c illwrai illwraith th because he affirms he cannot write At Glasgow, 6 July July 1662. The which day compeared personally Thomas M c Jorrell of Bar in the ... of D...ch cessit[?] deceased ... ... and of his own consent actit and ... himself as cautioner and surety for Jonet M c Jorrell relict and executrix testamentar confirmed to the late John M c ilwraith in Fardir Reich[?], His next son is Thomas Mcilwraith Mcilwraith alive 1647, (NASGD25/9) Thomas marries marries “Julian”, On 24/05/1678 24/05/1678 we find JOHN a son of THOMAS MCILWRATH/JULIANM MCILWRATH/JULIANMAYR/AYR. AYR/AYR. 13/09/1702 MCLWRATH HEUGH JOHN MCLWRATH/MBARR/AYR MCLWRATH/MBARR/AYR 12/06/1704 MCILRAITH JOHN JOHN MCILRAITH/MBARR/AYR MCILRAITH/MBARR/AYR 42 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

07/01/1705 MCILRAITH MARYJOHN MCILRAITH/FBARR/AY MCILRAITH/FBARR/AYR R 20/07/1707 MACKLERAITH ANN JOHN MACKLERAITH/FBARR/AYR MACKLERAITH/FBARR/AYR 04/07/1708 MACKLERAITH ELIZABETH JOHN MACKLERAITH/FBARR/AY MACKLERAITH/FBARR/AYR R 23/01/1709 MCLERAITH ANDREW JOHN MCLERAITH/MBARR/AYR MCLERAITH/MBARR/AYR 27/05/1710 MCLERAITH JANNETJOHN MCLERAITH/FBARR/AYR MCLERAITH/FBARR/AYR And also Charles Mackleraith baptised 20th Sept 1712 in Barr married December 1740 Barbara Campbell, they have children named Thomas Mclreath baptised 18th Oct 1741, Penningham, Wigtown and Barbara Mcleraith baptised 4th Mar 1743, Penningham, Wigtown Patrik Mcilwraith in Balloch, he marries a Margaret McWalker and died April 1614, some 24 years before his father. He is named as Patrick Makilwraithe Makilwraithe in Maybole Maybole styled as brother to Andrew. He has has the lease for 6 years years from 1653 of Muklestone Muklestone (Daily) (Daily)

Tes ta tament ment Tes ta tament mentar ar and and Inventa Inv entarr of P at atri ri k Mc ilwraith, 1614 R eference C C 9/ 9/7/ 7/9 9 Mcilwraith The testament testamentar and inventory of the goods, gear, debts and sums of money which appertained to the late Patrik M c ilwraith in Balloche within the parishing of Daylie at the time of his decease, Who died in the month of April in the year of God 1614, Faithfully made and given up with his own mouth, as his latter will and testament underwritten underwri tten more fully purports.

Sum of the debts in Sum of the inventory and debts

£34 £1336 16s

Debts owing out Item there was owing by the said late Patrik at the time of his decease aforesaid, to the persons following, the sums of money after specified, that is to say, To David Kippill £70 6s 8d. To Adame Quhytfuerd £13 13s 4d. To Quentein Kennedy in Kekerrane £9. To Jonn M c cluir the feir [?standard price] of two bolls of meal, price £10. To Patrik M c cluir £13 6s 8d. To Jonn M c Allexander £6. To Jonet M c Millane 53s 4d. To Bessie M c Galey 40s. To James M c ilwrath £4. To Andrew M c ilwrath in Maybole 40s. To Issobell M c ilwraith £3 13s 4d. To Marion Fergesoun £10. To Patrik M c cluir £3. 43 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

To Thomas Bannantyne 40s. To Johnne M c cubbei cubbein n of Cradowart £20 for his meals. t To Ro Muir £8. To Hew Kennedy of Garriehortie £6 13s 4d. To Adame Quhytfuird for his Whit Sunday meals, of the Balloche, £6 13s 4d. Sum of the debts out There rests of free gear, debts deducted

£193 £1143 16s 8d

Legacy At Balloche the 16 16 th day of April 1614, The which day the said Patrik, being sick in body but whole in spirit, nominates and constitutes Margaret M c Walker his spouse and Jo nn Quhytfuird in Balloche his executors and intromittors with his goods and gear, And leaves to his his said spouse his his part of the crop sown, sown, the goute [?], his leases, leases, and kindness [ancestral right of possession] of the Balloche, except one counter [counterpart of a lease?] which he leaves to Jo nn Quhytfuird. Item to Thomas M c ilwr ilwraith aith in Ardunwane twenty marks. c Item to Jonet M ilwr ilwraithe, aithe, daughter to Jonet Ramsay, ten marks. m arks. c c To Andrew M ilwrai ilwraith, th, son of the late Patoun M ilwr ilwraith, aith, twenty pounds. nn c Item to Jo M ilwraith in Auchunadie twenty marks. Item to Rot M c ilwrai ilwraith th his grandchil grandchild d £40 and his own gear and a quie of three [years] old. Item to Gilbert M c walker five marks. Item to Patrik M c clune five marks. Item to Bessie Mgirva five marks. Item to Margaret M c walker five marks Item to Thomas T homas Bannantyne Bannantyne five marks. Item to Patrik M c ilwraith ten marks. Item to Jonet M c ilwr ilwraithe aithe his grandchild ten marks. Item to Johnne Quhytfuird in Balloche two hundred marks. Item to Adam Quhytfuird one hundred marks. Item to Marion Quhytfuird one hundred marks. Item to Thomas M c ilwraithe in Auchinsoull ten pounds, providing he redeliver the borrowed ox which he has without process of law, and if he touch the said executors by the law he shall get no legacy. Item to Gilbert M c ilwraithe in Pinnannart £10. Item to Gilbert M c ilwraithe in Balloch, son to the said Gilbert, two ewes and two lambs. And to Gilbert M c ilwraithe in Balloche £10. Debts and legacies being paid. And leaves two two parts of the surplus of his free gear to his said spouse, spouse, nn And the third part part thereof to the said said Jo Quhytfuird. This was done at the day, year and place aforesaid before these witnesses, Thomas c M ilwrathe [in] Gerberrie, Jo nn Dormount in Balloche, Gilbert M c ilwrayt in Pynnanat, Gilbert M c ilwraith in Balloche, Gilbert M c Walker there, and Thomas M c Mairten in Pundland.

Patrick has a the following children; children;


Gilbert Mcilwraith alive 1584 in Pinnanet married Margaret MacFadzeane died May 1631. Although very v ery difficult to prove it is possible given timing, naming nam ing convention and also the connection back to Barr, that Gilbert is the father of the three McIlwraith’s found on the Irish Muster Rolls. (See Ireland Chapter) John Mcilwraith of Auchenmmaddie Auchenmmaddie alive 1614, it is known he has a son Gilbert Mcilwraith of Auchemmaddie Auchemmaddie alive 1611 who marries Marion NicCampbell. NicCampbell. He has two children Robert Mcilwraith of Auchemmaddie alive 1614 and Gilbert Mcilwraith of Auchemmaddie alive 1611 marries Marion NicCampbell

Testament Dative and Inventar of Mareoun Mcilwraith, 1617 Reference CC9/7/14 Sum of the inventory

£444

Debts owing out Item there was owing by the deceased and her spouse to Gilbert Ross, Provost of Maybole, and Thomas Boyd of Pinkill, Pinkill, their masters, in duty and rent, £66 13s 4d. Sum of the debts out

£80

At Glasgow the 6 th day of November 1617.

An extract of the original original is shown below below ;


The next son was Thomas Mcilwraith in Ardmillane, alive 1614, died at Balloch in 1636, married to Jonet [Janet] Abercrumbie who died after 1647 in Mylnegowane (see his Testament of 1636). The following testament is in the original “old Scots text” – it is possible to read, however provides the reader with an indication of the kind of source material which the authors read through and then transcribed to gain the information they now have on the family tree.

CC9/7/27/349 – G las las g ow Commis Commis s ary C ourt Tes tament mentss – Mcilwraith Mci lwraith 1636 The Testament Dative and Inventar of the guidis geir and sowmes of money q[uhi]lkis pertenit to umq[uhi]le umq[uhi]le Thomas Mckilwraithe Mckilwraithe in Mylnegowane Mylnegowane within within the parochin of Daylie Daylie the tyme of his deceis quha deceisit in the monethe of Aprile 1636 yeiris ffaythfullie maid & gevin up be Jonet Abircrumie his relict & spous in name & behalf of Johnne, Gilbert, Robert, Andro, James, Hew, Patrik, Margaret & Jonet Mcilwraithes Mcilwraithes minoris lauchtfull bairnes to the defunct & ex[ecuto]ris datives decer[n]it to his guidis & geir be decreit of the Co[m]missar of glasgow & his deput the tent day of november 1636 yeiris as the samyne at lenthe beiris At glasgow the tent day of november november 1636 yeiris yeiris The quhilk day co[m]peirit p[ersona]lie Gilbert Mcilwraith in Balloche And of his awin consent actit him self as cau[tio]uner & sovertie for Johnne Gilbert Robert Andro James Hew Patrik Margaret and Jonet Mcilwraithes bairnes & exe[cuto]ris co[n]fermit to umq[uhi]le Thomas Mcilwraithe Mcilwraithe in mylgowane m ylgowane That guidis & geir co[n]tenit in h is confermit testa[men]t salbe furth cumand to all p[air]teis haveand entres as Law will Lyk as Jonet Abircrumie relict of the 46 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

defunct actit hir self to warrand freith releive & skaythles keip the foirsaid cau[tio]uner of the premissis and of all da[n]ger th[air]anent th[air]anent Quhairupoune Quhairupoune the said Jonet Jonet askit actis Thomas in Ardmillan has the following children; Dinmurchie passes to John, who is in Dinmurchie from 6 th Oct 1659 per Sasines and the book will follow his line as part of the Balcletchie Balcletchie chapter in the book. Margaret Mcilwraith of Layne died Sept 1620, Jonet, Gilbert, James, Hew and Robert who are all alive per Thomas’s testament of 1636. Next, Andrew Mcilwraith alive 1614 of Pinvallie died Dec 1675 who married Margaret McJorrow. Testament Dative and Inventar of Andrew Mcillwraith, 1675 Reference CC9/7/41 Mc Illwrait The testament dative and inventory of the goods and gear, debts and sums of money, which pertained to the late Androw Mcillwraith of Auchinflower within the parishing parishing of Ballantrae at the time of his decease, who died in the month of February 1674, Faithfully maid and given up Be Hew Mcillwraith, lawful son of the deceased, and executor dative surrogate in place of John Johnns, Procurator Fiscal of the Commissariot Commissariot of Glasgow, who is execut or or dative to the deceased’s deceased’s goods, gear and debts by decree of the Commissar of Glasgow, his deputy, upon the 17th day of April 1675, as the same bears out. Sum of the debts owing out

£247 13s 4d

And thus the debts exceed exceed the goods goods I, Sir William Fleming of Ferme, Knight and Baronet, Commissar of Glasgow, By the tenor hereof, after due warning made by edict, openly, as is right, At Maybole the 26th 26th day of April April 1675. Protestation - Mcillwraith The which day, in the presence of John Fleiming of [?]Coutstoun, Deputy Commissar of Glasgow, appeared personally Hew Mcillwraith, lawful son and executor dative, surrogate and confirmed, to the late Andrew Mcillwrai Mcillwraith th of Auchinflower, Who protested that whatsoever goods, gear, debts and sums of money which pertained or were owing to the deceased at the time of his decease, not as yet come to the said executor’s knowledge, knowledge, or doubtful debt already known to him and uncertain to be recovered, That it might be legal and lawful for him, at any time hereafter, to increase and confirm the same to the deceased’s principal confirmed testament and be duly confirmed therewith, paying for the same same the ordinary ordinary dues for quota and and confirmation, confirmation, Which protestation the said Deputy Commissar has admitted and admits in so far as the will provide, 47 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Whereupon the said executor asks for acts [to be issued]. Below is the second text in relation to Andrew in Pinvallie.

Testament Testamentar and Inventar of Androw Mcillwraith, Mcillwraith, 1676 Reference CC9/7/41 The testament dative testamentar and inventory of the goods and gear which pertained to the late Androw Mcillwraith In Pinvallie within the parishing of Barr at the time of his decease, who died in the month of December last past, Faithfully made and given up by the deceased’ s own mouth in so far as concerns the nomination nomination of his executors and legatees underwritten, underwritten, And partly made and given up by Hew & Jon McIllwraith, McIllwraith, lawful sons to the deceased and executors testamentar nominated by the deceased, in so far as concerns the delivery of the inventory of the deceased’s goods and gear, and debts awing out by him aftermentioned, As the deceased’s deceased’s testament and last will, of the date underwritten, underwritten, in itself at more length bears out. Testament Testamentar and Inventar of Androw Mcillwraith, Mcillwraith, 1676 Reference CC9/7/41 The deceased’s last will and legacies follow I, Androw Mcillwraith in Pinvallie, being sick in body but perfect in memory and judgment, blessed be God, and knowing that there is nothing more certain than death, and nothing more uncertain that the time and manner thereof, do hereby make my last will and testament as follows. In the first place I nominate and appoint Hew Mcillwraith and Jon Mcillwraith my eldest and second sons to be my executors, legatees and universal intromittors with my whole moveable goods and gear, debts and sums of money whatsoever, as well what is lying beside me as what is upon bond and securities, whatsoever pertaining to me the time of my decease, With full power to them to give up the inventory thereof, and confirm the same in testament, and to meddle and intromit with, use and dispose thereupon, just like, and as freely in all respects, as any other executors may do according to the law and customs of this realm. Likewise I nominate and appoint my said executors to make payment to my said children after named of the debts and sums of money after specified, as and for the bairns’ part of gear and natural portion, to wit, To Androw Mcillwraith Mcillwraith my third son the sum s um of 250 marks Scots money, And to Gilbert Mcillwraith my fourth son the sum of another another 250 marks marks of money aforesaid, aforesaid, And likewise likewise to James Mcillwraith Mcillwraith my fifth lawful lawful son the sum of another 250 marks of money aforesaid,


And similarly similarly to Thomas Mcwillwraith Mcwillwraith my m y sixth lawful son the sum of another 250 marks of money aforesaid, And in like manner to Margaret Mcillwraith Mcillwraith my eldest lawful daughter the the sum of another 250 marks, And also to Jonet Mcillwr Mcillwraith aith my second lawful lawful daughter the sum of another 250 marks, And in like manner to Jean Mcillwraith my youngest lawful daughter the sum of another 250 marks of money aforesaid, And And that is to be paid as their natural portions and bairns’ parts of gear, which respective sums of money above specified my said executors are to pay to my said children above mentioned at their perfect age of fourteen complete years, and that is to be paid out of the first and readiest goods and gear whatsoever pertaining to me the time of my decease, And likewise likewise I nominate and appoint my said executors to pay and deliver to Margaret McJorrow my lawful spouse the just and equal third of my free moveable goods and gear, insight and plenishing pertaining pertaining to me m e at the time of my decease. And lastly I nominate and appoint Gilbert G ilbert Mcillwraith of Doum Marchie, John Mcillwraith Mcillwraith in Ballskaig and Jon Mcillwraith in Milntoun, Hendrie McJorrow of Altinalbinoch, Thomas McJorrow of Barr and James McJorrow In Shang, to be overseers to my said children, In witness whereof these presents, written by James McJorrow in Shang, I have subscribed these presents at Pinvallie on the 27th day of May 1675, Before these witnesses, Gilbert McCudzean in Malldenoch, David Rinnie in Darline, and Thomas Markem at Barkirk. Andrew who dies 1674 family tree is considerable considerable and continues in Pinvally up until the late 1700’s. John in 1662 is noted as taking ownership of Pinvally, later noted as elder in Kairne, document sighted. At Cassillis, the 14 th April 1662, this contract was drawn up and agreed upon between John, Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy etc on the one part and John McIlwraith McIlwraith in Drumurchie on the other part, in which it is recorded that the Earl had borrowed 4,000 merks Scots from John McIlwraith for his urgent and necessary necessary affairs. The Earl grants John McIlwraith a receipt receipt with full exoneration forever, renouncing all exceptions and objections which might be suggested or alleged. He obliges himself, himself, his heirs and successors as quickly as possible to infeft and sease John McIlwraith and his heirs and assignees whoever they might be, heritably, but always under reversion, in a yearly annualrent of 80 pounds Scots to be uplifted and taken up at two terms in the year, Whitsunday and Martinmas, in equal portions, out of his fifty shilling lands of Pinvallie, Maldinoch and Largleny with houses, yards and pertinents, presently presently possessed by John McFydzeane McFydzeane elder and and John McFydzeane McFydzeane younger, lying in the parish of Barr and Earldom Earldom of Carrick. Carrick. This infeftment was to be held from from the Earl, his heirs or successors in free blench for the yearly payment of one penny Scots on the ground of the land at Whitsunday, Whitsunday, if asked for. It was to contain a clause of warrandice, both special and general, general, as if infeftment had already taken taken place. The Earl binds himself to warrand, acquit and defend the yearly annualrent and land out of which the annularent was to be uplifted, so that it was safe, sure and free for John McIlwraith and his forsaids from all 49 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

reliefs, non-entries, non-entries, lady’s terces, conjunct fees, both public and private, sasines, former alienations, dispositions, inhibitions, interdictions, evictions, apprisings, recognitions of infeftment and all other perils, dangers and inconvenients whatever, including those expressed or not expressed, past, present or future by all and everyone, during the nonredemption, redemption, according to law. He binds himself to make good and and thankful payment of the annualrent to J ohn McI lwraith and his forsaids each year at the term agreed, as if he was infeft or not infeft. The first term’s payment was to begin at Whitsunday 1662, the next the following Martinmas Martinmas and so on, until the lands were were redeemed. He also agreed to enter any heir or assignee of John McIlwraith in the yearly annualrent and lands, if necessary during the time of non-redemption. non-redemption. This was to be done freely without without any payment of money or by deed. He also dispones to him or whoever he nominates nominates all benefits and casualties casualties of Superiority that the he, the Earl or his forsaids were due to receive as superior, through liferent, escheat, non-entry or other ways, as often as the same happens and that to be freely without composition. composition. For the lawful redemption of the yearly annualrent annualrent and lands, John McIlwraith, now, as if he had already been infeft, binds himself to deliver to the Earl a letter of reversion of the 4,000 merks and one term’s annualrent. The Earl was to pay pay this in in one lump sum within the parish church of Maybole at the forthcoming Martinmas Martinmas 1662 or any future term of Whitsunday or Martinmas, upon warning of 40 days to be made by the Earl to John McIlwraith McIlwraith that this was to be done. The Premonition Premonition of warning was to be given personally to John McIlwraith or left at his dwelling house, in presence of a notary and witnesses. In case John McIlwraith McIlwraith was absent on the agreed day for repayment or refused to accept the money, then it was to be left in the hands of a responsible, landed man, living in the town or parish of Maybole to be held held for the benefit of John McIlwraith. McIlwraith. Once he had been repaid, the annualrent annualrent and lands were to be held as lawfully redeemed. redeemed. The reversion could be extended though, though, the necessary necessary document to be drawn drawn up to that effect. It is expressly provided and declared that all annualrents that were outstanding were to be paid with the principal principal sum. John McIlwraith McIlwraith agreed that the previous clauses clauses could count as a sufficient legal reversion, reversion, as if a specific reversion had been drawn up and signed. He dispensed with with the registration of this. If he and his forsaids wished to receive the 4,000 merks back at any time, together with the outstanding annualrents and to cancel this contract, they could warn the Earl or his forsaids 60 days beforehand, preceding the next Martinmas or at any other Whitsunday and Martinmas to come personally or at his dwelling place, in presence of a notary and witnesses, to appear at the parish church of Maybole to repay John McIlwraith and his forsaids the principal sum plus any outstanding annualrents. The Earl agreed that if he did not do this, this, he would have to pay a penalty of 400 pounds Scots. If he did agree and made payment, payment, John McIlwraith McIlwraith would have a letter of renunciation drawn drawn up, signed and delivered to the Earl and by so doing would accept that the annualrent and lands had been redeemed from the Earl, as if this contract had never been made between between them. This contract was was to be returned to the Earl or his his forsaids so that it could be cancelled, destroyed destroyed or used as he wished. wished. They both agreed that it together with the precept of sasine underwritten should be registered in the Books of Council and Session, Baillie Court Books of Carrick or any other judicial books in order that letters of horning at 6 days charge could be issued, if necessary and they appointed (blank) as their procurator. In order that John McIlwraith McIlwraith could be infeft in the annualrent annualrent and lands, the Earl appointed (blank) as his baillie to give corporal, real and actual sasine to him of the annualrent out of the lands of Pinvallie, Maldinoch and Larglenie, symbolised by giving him one penny in name of annualrent and a handful of earth and stones of the ground of the said lands. Written by Gilbert McRenkine, notary and signed by both parties, before witnesses Thomas Eltrim, servitor to the Earl, James Schaw, notary and the said s aid Gilbert McRenkine John has two children, 50 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

28/07/1695 MCILWRATH MARGARET JOHN MCILWRATH/FBARR/AYR MCILWRATH/FBARR/AYR And John Mcilwraith Mcilwraith (The Younger) Younger) in Kairne A further son of Andrew is Hew Mcilwraith of Pinvallie alive 1675, and find him in Meldinoch Meldinoch 1684 and 86

Andrew Mcilwraith Mcilwraith alive 1675 possibly possibly moves into Pinnanent per the 1691 Hearth tax. Andrew has a considerabl considerable e family who who stays in and around around Barr. Gilbert Mcilwraith alive 1675 James Mcilwraith alive 1676, in Brodlocie 1676-82, is noted as James is in Brocklock 1697. And is listed listed as Ballie of James McCubine McCubine of Knockdolian Knockdolian Thomas Mcilwraith Mcilwraith of Brochloch 1690 & 1697, he has sons 15/12/1695 MCILWRATH HUGH THOMAS MCILWRATH/MBARR/AYR, which states in OPR580-000-0010-0007 OPR580-000-0010-0007 that he is Hugh son to Thomas Mcilwrath in Brockloch. And 24/05/1709 24/05/1709 MCLERAITH ANDREW ANDREW THOMAS THOMAS MCLERAITH/MBARR/AYR MCLERAITH/MBARR/AYR Andrew in Pinvallie has a daughter Jonet, who marries Andrew McConel, known as a result of OPR580-000-0010-015 OPR580-000-0010-0151, 1, where itit states William William McConel natural son to Andrew McConel, sometime in this place [Barr] and Jonet McLwrath in Delay in Girvan parish.


South Balloch with Pinvallie behind it, taken by Colin McNally 2011 Then there is Margaret. (Who the authors believe marries Johne McLamonoh of [Struen Farfen?] in the parish of Kells and Margaret McLwriath McLwriath in the Barr The last of the Children of Gilbert in Balloch and Margaret McCouchie McCouchie is Patrik Mcilwraith of Drummurchie circa 1620 - died by 1657, he married Dorothy Rosse daughter of Andrew Rosse in Chapeldonan RS13/3 1659. Precept of Sasine for Drummurchie 1653 RS2/5/187 Patrick and Dorothy have the following children; Patrick; who is assumed to be the oldest son, born circa 1580. Per Wadset - he is of Drummurchie 12 th April 1655. In South Balloch 1659, and 1653, 1665 Glengap 1655. His family tree will form part of a core chapter of the book, that of Dunmurchie. Janet who in 1664 Ante-nuptial contract of marriage between Gilbert McMartin of Dacharne and John McMartin, his son, on one part and Janet McIlwrath, daughter of deceased Patrick McIlwrath of Dunmurchie with the consent of John and Andrew McIlwrath, her Uncles, of the 5 merkland of Dacharne to John and the feu duty to be paid annually to the Earl of Cassillis. (Ayrshire Archives 60/1/5) John- witness to Jonet’s marriage per Ayrshire Archives 60/1/5 And finally Andrew. “ Andr Andr McIlwraith in Shalloch” Shalloch” noted as executor of John McIlwraith in fardenroch, however Andrew is the first to hold land at Auchenflower and in 1661 per sasines, acquired Auchenflower 16.1.1665 (NAS RS14/1/561R). RS14/1/561R). The Auchenflower Chapter has been written by Duncan Van Reijswoud who lives in Australia and was very much a joint author of these writings and a direct descendant des cendant of the last McIlwraiths of Auchenflower. Therefore for this chapter I will only take the Auchenflower section to the point where it connects with Thomas McIlwraith McIlwraith in Newton in Ayr. Andrew died in 1674; the authors know his wife wais still alive in 1682 as it is written in Hugh's prison notes that she will pay a life rent. Prior to Auchenflower he was renting Glentig 1666 – 1666 – 72 72 and was most likely in Sallocahane in 1667. As you can tell from other aspects of


the McIlwraith story, this is where the family folklore starts to show some truth - as the families start working their way down the Stinchar to eventually end up at Ballantrae. Andrew and his his wife have a large family; family; Andrew Andrew who is noted in the “ McIlwraith McIlwraith v Glentig 1710 document”, as Andrew Mcilwraith in Sallochane 1674, (GD25/6/200/2), and possibly Andrew in Barehill in the Parish of Colmonell. Henry Mcilwraith of Auchenflower, named as a Rebel Heritor 1682 and exiled to Ireland 1685. John Mcilwraith of Auchenflower, in Sallochane per sasine 21 st May 1667, Assume this John was in Farden by 1679. Possibly John McIlvrick in Dalwharran 1691 Hearth tax. Later of Darlae per NAS ref RS14/1/52R and he Died Oct 1707. As with his brother exiled to Ireland 1685. As for a family John had two sons – sons – Hugh Hugh of Shigerland Shigerland who died 1748 after marrying m arrying Elizabeth Kennedy. 27/03/1713 MCLWRATH HEUGH ELISABETH KENEDY/FR153MBARR/AYR; and John John, merchant in Edinburgh 1697 and an Ayr Burgesses and Guild Bretheren P81 2 nd Sept 1707. Margaret Mcilwraith Mcilwraith of Auchinflour, alive 1691, who in 1714 married Archibald Shaw, brother of Alexander of Kilmoir. Secondly married William Kennedy younger of Dalgarrock (His Father being Hew of Dalgarrock). All the evidence suggests she is also a covenanter as a Margaret is also noted on the same page as her brothers in 1687. As with many aspects of family tree detection there can be alternative connections, she possibly could be either the Aunt of the Auchenflower Auchenflower brothers, or more likely a daughter of Andrew in Pinvallie, Pinvallie, most likely named for assisting. She has two children Alexander Shaw in Kilmore alive 1691, and Margaret Shaw alive 1714 who married William Kennedy younger of Daljarrock. Hew Mcilwraith of Auchenflower was aged 60 in 1685 when he was involved in covenanting, in 1694 married Jean Kennedy, the widow of Gilbert of Dinmurchie. In the 1722 document it notes that John Kennedy Lieutenant Bailie Bailie in Maybole Maybole signed the document – the – the author are assuming that this was the brother of Jean. This is possibly the granddaughter of Thomas Kennedy of Dinmurchie who we know had a s ingle son called Thomas; the authors have not yet proven that Jean was his only daughter. Hew died February 1718. There were no children from Jean's 2nd marriage, Hugh passed Auchenflour to his “German” German” (full) (full) brother James Mcilwraith, the heirs mentioned later as Agnes and Mary Mcilwraith Mcilwraith children of his brother Gilbert in Auchenflour Hugh was named as a Rebel Heritor in 1682 and exiled in 1685 as a result of Bothwell on 8 th October 1681 in 1685. His life and fortune were declared forfeit on 8 th October 1681. Trial date was 7 th April 1681, date of execution was to be 12 th April 1681 at the Grassmarket in Edinburgh. In 1691 Hugh is renting Auchenflower and associated lands from James McIlraith of Balcletchie after James funded and supported Hugh for the purchase of Dinmurchie, with Dinmurchie Dinmurchie mortgaged for £8,000 to pay the debts of Gilbert of Dinmurchie which which Hugh took on.


James Mcilwraith of Auchenflower is alive in 1722, base don all information available he was born circa 1659 and has died by 1731. It is this James which starts the main line of Auchenflower. Auchenflower. Gilbert Mcilwraith Mcilwraith in Auchenflower died died by 1722, Attorney in 1700 at Auchenflower Auchenflower Robert Jonet And lastly Thomas, who is named as witness in 1698 on the sasine of Hugh McIlraith of Lands of Auchinflour, NAS ref RS4/6/259r. Thomas and Gilbert named as brothers to Hugh. Possibly of Poundland prior prior to going to Newton Newton in Ayr. It is this Thomas who who starts two major lines for the McIlwraith family – – one which ends in Ballantrae, a second which is Australia bound, both intwinned intwinned by the sea.


AUCHENFLOWER

The following is extracted (with additions) from “A Genealogical History Of The McIlwraith Family of Auchenflower, Auchenflower, Drummurchie & Knockdolian Ayrshire, Carrick, Scotland” By Duncan van Reijswoud, February 2012. As 2012. As will be noted in various parts of the book Duncan had been studying the McIlwraith family tree for many years when both our research paths met a number of years ago. The partnership formed was highly successful in gathering, transcribing and building the McIlwraith tree as it is now documented. With much of the research and transcription completed Duncan focused his attention on completing his Auchenflower Auchenflower family line. Therefore given the closeness he has to the subject the author felt it was best to utilise this extract to provide the view of the direct Auchenflower line. This chapter starts at Andrew McIlwraith, the son of Patrik McIlwraith of Dinmurchie who married Dorothy Rosse.

Patrik Mcilwraith of Drummurchie, died by 1657 married Dorothy Rosse Patrick, Andre w Mcilwraith of Dinmurchie Auche nflowe r died John 1655, In South 1674, acquired Balloch 1659 Auche nflowe r 16. 1.16 65

Hew Mcilwraith Margaret Mcilwraith Mcilwraith of of James Andre w Henry John Auchinf lour alive 1 691 - Auche nflowe r Mcilwraith Mcilwraith of Mcilwraith in Mcilwraith of Mcilwraith of 1714 married Archibald died Feb 1718 Auche nflowe r Sallochane Auche nflowe r Auche nflowe r Shaw married married 16 94 alive alive 172 2 Jean Kennedy Exiled to Exiled to Exciled as a Ireland 1685 Ireland Ireland 16 85 result of Later of D arlae Bothwell 8.10.1681, in 1685 Hugh Mcilwraith alive 1708 Hugh Mclewraith was in Darlae later in Shigerland and also renting Dunmurchie

Gilbert Mcilwraith in Auche nflowe r died by 1722

Robert

Marg are t

A g ne s

Jonet

Mary Married Hugh Mcilwraith in Auchinflour alive 1722 & 1738

Andrew McIlwraith who died in Feb 1674 was the first to hold the estate of Auchenflower. Auchenflower. Earlier records show Andrew McIlwraith lived in Sallochane. SALLOCHANE – – 1.75 miles S.W of Colmonell, Ayrshire, Scotland. Named after the hill immediately NE of the farm. “The projecting hill”. The first note of Andrew can be found within a marriage contract between John McMertein & Janet McIlwraith on 14th May 1664 (Ayrshire Archives 60/1/5(1)), reveals that Janet was the daughter of Patrick McIlwraith of Dinmurchie. It also states that Janet McIlwraith had two uncles, John & Andrew McIlwraith, brothers of the said Patrick McIlwraith. Both John and Andrew McIlwraith’s are listed as Janet McIlwraith’s tutors. On 16th January 1665 Andrew McIlwraith in Sallochane was delivered Sasine and possession of the 2 merkland of Auchenflower (Auchinflour) & the merkland of Balrassie, lying within the Parish of Ballantrae. On 1 st June 1667 Andrew McIlwraith in Sallochane & 55 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Thomas Newton in Ayr

also now of Auchenflower was delivered a further Sasine for all the 40 shilling land of Auchenflower Auchenflower this time including the Mansion house, lying lying within the Parish of Kirkcudbright. A witness to this Sasine in 1667 was Gilbert McIlwraith in Sallochane, later to be in Auchenflower Auchenflower and son of the said Andrew McIlwraith of Auchenflower. Auchenflower. A third Sasine to th Andrew McIlwraith dated 24 July 1668 shows Andrew paying £92 rent for the 10 merkland of Glentig 4. Bond, Andrew Mcneillie Mcneillie to Andrew A ndrew Mcilwreath, 1665 NRS RD4/22/58 I, Alexander Mcnillie in Auchinflower, grant me to have borrowed and received from Andrew Mcilwreath in Sallochane the sum of 250 marks money of Scotland, whereof I grant the receipt, The which sum aforesaid, together with half a year’s annual rent thereof until the term of payment underwritten, I as principal, and with me Mr William Eccles of Kildonan as cautioner, surety and full debtor for me, bind and oblige ourselves, jointly and severally, our heirs, executors, successors and intromettors whomsoever, To content, pay and deliver again to the said Andrew Mcilwreath, his heirs, executors and assignees, at Martinmas next, 1665, With fifty pounds money aforesaid of liquidated expenses expenses in case of failure, A further bond shows shows Andrew in in Sallochane; Bond, Fergusone Fergusone to Mcilwrath, Mcilwrath, 1669 Obligation: Thomas Fergusone To Andrew Mcilwrath In [the] presence of the Lords of Council and Session appeared William Zeman, advocate, as proctor for Thomas 26 Fergusone after-designated, after-designated, and gave in the bond underwritten, underwritten, whereof the tenor follows. I, Thomas Fergusone in Troach [Troax], grant me to have borrowed and received from the hands of Andro Mcilwrath in Sallochane the sum of 100 marks money of Scotland, whereof I grant the receipt, The which sum of 100 marks money aforesaid, together with the ordinary annual rent thereof from the term of Candlemas last past until the term of payment underwritten, I, the said Thomas Fergusone, bind and oblige me, my heirs, executors and successors, The Tacks, Andrew McIlwraith of Auchenflower, 1674, NRS RD2/36/619 provide the initial evidence of Andrew now being “of Auchenflower”. At Craguntoune, 20 April 1669, it is appointed, agreed, finally contracted and ended betwixt Andrew Mcilwrath of Achinflour, tutor to John Adam of Glentig, on the one part, and Fergus Mcconnell, miller at the Mylne of Tig, on the other part, in manner following, that is to say, The said Andrew, as tutor aforesaid, sets in tack and assidaunce, and for the farm and duty underwritten underwritten lets to the said Fergus Mcconnell, his heirs, executors and assigns, of no higher degree than himself, All and the whole the aforesaid Mylne of Tige, with sucken [obligation [obligation of tenants to use that particular mill], mulctures [fines, probably for using a different mill] and services thereof presently possessed possessed by the said Fergus, lying lying within the parishing parishing of Ballantray and Baillierie Baillierie of Carrick, for all the days, space, years and terms of 11 years next and immediately following the term of Whitsunday next to come in this instant year of God, which shall be his entry in and to this present tack, and from thenceforth to endure to the end of the 11 years, and be wrought, laboured and manured by the said Fergus and his foresaids with mulctures, knaveships [customary [customary due of meal paid to the under-miller], under-miller], bonnock [small quantity of meal due to other employees], sucken and other commodities used and wont [customary], with lands, waters, dams and watergates, houses, yards, corn land and all other privileges conform to, used and wont of before, For the which mill, with the appurtenances belonging thereto, the said Fergus Mcconnell binds and obliges him, his heirs, executors and successors whatsoever thankfully to content, pay and deliver to the said Andrew McIlwraith, his heirs, executors orassigns, the yearly duty after-specified, viz, Nine bolls of good and sufficient Anssheilt [threshed, winnowed] meal yearly, and that the said Andrew shall have 56 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

liberty to send and wind [winnow] the shilling [grain separated from husk] that the said meal be made of, and if the said meal please not the said Andrew he shall have seven pecks of sufficient shilling shilling for each boll of the said nine bolls of meal, At the Forty Penny Land Land of Glentig, 14 March March 1671, it is is appointed, agreed, agreed, finally contracted contracted and ended betwixt Andrew McIlwraith of Achinflour, tutor to John Adam of Glentig, on the one part, and Fergus Mcconnell, miller at the Milne of T ig, on the other part, in manner, form and effect following, that is to say, The said Andrew Mcilwreath, as tutor aforesaid, sets in tack and assurance, like as he by the tenor of these presents, for the years, farms and duties underwritten, lets to the said Fergus Mcconnell, his heirs, executors and assigns, of no higher degree than himself, All and the whole the aforesaid Mylne of Tig, with suckin, mulctures and services thereof presently possessed by the said Fergus, lying within the parishing of Ballantrae and Baillery of Carrick, Carrick, In the 1650’ 1650’s Andrew McIlwraith was living at the Kilkerran estate. This estate was a strong hold of the Fergusson family, with Kilkerran Tower being with the Fergusson ’s from as early as 1512. It is only a suggestion; however it is thought that Andrew’s spouse may have been connected to the Fergusson clan in some way. Hugh McIlwraith became heir to Andrew McIlwraith in February 1674 when Andrew died. By 1674, Andrew McIlwraith’s estate consisted of 6 cows with their followers, 10 sheep, 5 black cattle & two horses, as well as the mansion house at Auchenflower. Auchenflower. Hugh McIlwraith was born around 1655 at Kilkerran, probably in the Tower at Kilkerran. Ten years later, Hugh and his siblings moved to the adjacent estates of Auchenflower and Knockdolian Knockdolian in Ayrshire.

Knockdolian Knockdolian Hill (Photograph by Colin McNally) 2010 Hugh McIlwraith was a young man of 19 years when he inherited the Auchenflower estate from his father Andrew. As a young boy, Hugh’s convictions of his faith were realised and eventually he engaged in the late rebellion at Bothwell-bridge. He was outlawed and listed as a Covenanter when he was captured. See the chapter on the Covenanters for further information on Hugh. 57 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Some genealogists genealogists believe or have stated that Hugh married an Irish lady. However, the Old Parish Register of Scotland has his marriage to a Scottish lady in 1694: 24 th Nov 1694 Hugh McIlwraith of Auchinflour & Jean Kennedy (who will be talked about separatel s eparately y and who was the widow of Gilbert McIlwraith of Dinmurchie who died in Sept 1693). This means that the information regarding Hugh McIlwraith marrying an Irish lady is incorrect. Another son of Andrew McIlwraith, James McIlwraith in Auchinflour, first appears in records on 8th June 1691, when he witnessed a bond by Gilbert McIlwraith of Dinmurchie (not to be confused with Andrew McIlwraith’s son Gilbert McIlwraith in Auchenflower) for 80 merks. This bond states that James McIlwraith was brother-german to Hugh McIlwraith of Auchinflour. Auchinflour. We may perhaps therefore conclude that James was also born at the old tower of Kilkerran.

Signature of James McIlwraith in Auchenflower dated 8th June 1691 [Signature was extracted from a Sasine found at Kilkerran]

James McIlwraith in Auchenflower was an elder in the Ballantrae Kirk during the 1720s & early 1730s. James appears in several documents in the early 1700s. From these it is learned that he had several children. Of interest is the inquisition made at the time of James McIlwraith’s McIlwraith’s death, dated 4 th Aug 1731. Partial Extract Dated 4 th August 1731; Who, having been sworn, say upon their great oath that the late James McIlwraith in Auchinflour, Auchinflour, father of Andrew McIlwraith, bearer of these presents, presents, And that the said Andrew McIlwraith is the lawful first born son and next heir of his said late father….. Interestingly, here Andrew McIlwraith is mentioned as the eldest son, so by right, should have been heir to Auchenflower. This did not eventuate. A document dated at Ayr on the 3rd December 1746 states that Andrew McIlwraith was the 1 st born son of James McIlwraith from James’ first marriage. And Hugh McIlwraith was the 1st born son by the 2 nd marriage of James McIlwraith. Andrew was relieved of his debts and the lands passed to Hugh McIlwraith. All the two merkland of Clashlochan Clashlochan and the two merkland of Balrassy, which are parts of the ten mark land of Glentig, otherwise called Schallochan, the three merkland lying between the parishings of Kirkcudbright Innertig alias Ballantray, The above document is the last mention of James McIlwraith in Auchenflower. What happened to the eldest son Andrew McIlwraith has not been discovered. 58 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

The next son of Andrew McIlwraith of Auchenflower that we have knowledge of is Gilbert McIlwraith in Auchenflower. There were two men named Gilbert McIlwraith who lived in close proximity more or less contemporaneously and previous researchers and writers have confused them. The other man, Gilbert McIlwraith of Drummurchie, is not Andrew McIlwraith’s McIlwraith’s son. This is an example of a common c ommon mistake made when researchers researchers just look at a Sasine and do not transcribe the document. The result of not transcribing a complete Sasine is that an heir gets listed as a son, when in many cases the heir is a younger brother of the deceased. Because transcriptions transcriptions were not done in the past, this has c aused incorrect lineages for the McIlwraiths of Auchenflower line. Gilbert McIlwraith in Auchenflower was an attorney for the family. He bears witness to a document dated in 1700 at Auchenflower. A Sasine dated that same year states that Gilbert McIlwraith is brother-german of Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower. Gilbert McIlwraith seems to have had three daughters and no sons, and these daughters were later caught up in a long court battle over various lands. As stated before, Gilbert McIlwraith in Auchenflower Auchenflower had witnessed a document in September 1700. Not only did he witness the document but he is also mentioned as an attorney. He seems to have married and had three daughters; Mary, Margaret and Agnes McIlwraith. They appear in a Testament Dative Qua Creditor in 1722: debts and sums of money which were indebted and owing to umquhile (deceased) Hew McIlwraith of Auchenflour within within the Parish Parish of Barr the time of his his decease Note that Hugh, as mentioned, died in 1718. The document goes on to say that it was ‘faithfully made and given up by Agnes McIlwraith lawful daughter to daughter to them deceased Gilbert McIlwraith late in Auchinflower now spouse to John McCaull writer in Mayboyle and the said John McCaull for his interest’. interest’. As mentioned earlier, previous genealogists genealogists of this family have easily confused this Gilbert McIlwraith in Auchinflour and his three daughters with Gilbert McIlwraith of Dinmurchie and his five daughters, who were revealed earlier in this book. Interestingly, and just to tie in other chapters, it is noteworthy that James McIlwraith in Balclatechie Balclatechie was the superior feu over Auchenflower during this time. The said umquhile (deceased) Hugh McIlwraith thereby bound and obliged him and his heirs against the first Tuesday of April then next, to grant bond with a sufficient caution for the sum of one thousand pounds pounds Scots money principal with two hundred pounds of penalty, payable to the said three daughters, Margaret, Agnes and Mary McIlwraith McIlwraith There was indebted and owing to the said umquhile Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower the time of his decease by Hugh McIlwraith in Darlea the sum of fourscore pounds Scots money resting yearly for each year of four years and proportionally for half a year due by him to the defunct for the rent of the lands of the upper part of the four merk land of Dinmurchie called The Fell and Ferture belonging to the defunct and set by him to the said Hugh McIlwraith in Darlea conforming to a tack passed betwixt them dated the twenty-third day of December 1717 Mentions of Agnes, Mary and Margaret can be found in several other documents and many such documents were found at Kilkerran House by Colin McNally. The documents at Kilkerran house revealed many sums of money for land estates and many McIlwraith names.


Hugh first married his cousin Mary, daughter of Gilbert in Auchenflower. What we can quite clearly state is that there were no children from Mary and Hugh McIlwraith’s union. By 1738 Mary McIlwraith had died and Hugh McIlwraith got the lands back. On 26 th June 1748 Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower married Sarah Maxwell. Sarah is the daughter of Robert Maxwell, writer in Edinburgh. 26 Jun 1748 McIlwraith, Hugh, Marriage Hugh McIlwraith of Achenflour was married to Sarah Maxwell in the Parish of Leswalt (having been orderly Proclaim'd in [... ...] June 23d 1748 Andrew McIlwraith McIlwraith of Auchenflower Auchenflower died Feb 1674 1674

26 Jun 1748 McIlwraith, Hugh, Marriage Hugh McIlwraith of Achenflour was married to Sarah Maxwell in the Parish of Leswalt (having been orderly Proclaim'd in [... ...] June 23d 1748

And what of Margaret McIlwraith the only known daughter of Andrew McIlwraith of Auchenflower Auchenflower who died 1674. The author have found mentions of her in 1712 within the Translation and Disposition; Margaret McIlwraith to her daughter Margaret Shaw. Margaret McIlwraith stated she was the wife of the deceased Archibald Shaw of Kilmore. She mentioned that her daughter Margaret Shaw was spouse to William Kennedy, younger of Daljarrock. Earlier in 1691 the author find a life rent of the lands of Daljarrock to Margaret Shaw, daughter of Archibald Shaw and Margaret McIlwraith. In this document Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower is mentioned as appearing as baillie for Margaret Shaw and receiving into his hands a marriage contract. 22 December 1688, Whereby, for the marriage then contracted and thereafter solemnized between the said William Kennedy and Margaret Shaw, the said Hew and William Kennedy bound themselves to enfeoffe the said Margaret Shaw in life-rent in all the 30s-land of Barnhill, Mylnholme and Craigan Crea, the 5s-land of McAllanstoune, the 5s-land of Aillhouse and the 6s-8d-land of Tyreaker, all part of the 9½-mark-land of Dalgarock, in the parishing of Colmonell, bailiwick of Carrick and Sheriffdom of Ayr, being the principal lands, And in the 20s-land of Aikermadie Aikermadie and 20s-land of Glassill, Glassill, parcel of the same 9½-mark-land 9½ -mark-land of Dalgarock, being the warranty lands, to be held and in manner specified in the marriage contract, The youngest son of Andrew McIlwraith of Auchenflower, Thomas McIlwraith, in Auchenflower appears appears as witness witness in a document dated dated March 1698. 1698. 60 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

This signature is of high importance to the Ballantrae line as it is in this document that the first signature of Thomas, who is at the start of the Ballantrae line, is found. Within the Sasine of Hugh McIlwraith of Auchinflour 10th Mar 1698 this mentions him to be brother of Gilbert McIlwraith in Auchenflower & Hugh McIlwraith of Auc henflower. henflower. Hugh McIlwraith is the lawful and next heir of the late Andrew McIlwraith of Auchinflour his father of the 40s-land of Auchinflour, and is of lawful age, And that these lands are held of me as superior lord (Fergus McCubine of Knockdolian), in fee farm and heredity, to hold in chief for the sum of £8 10s p.a., By these presents we order you to deliver estate, sasine and corporal possession of the 40s-land of Auchinflour to the aforenamed Hugh McIlwraith as lawful son and next heir. After the reading which precept of sasine James McIlwraith the baillie delivered sasine of the 40s-land of Auchinflour with the appurtenances to the aforenamed Hugh McIlwraith. Witnesses present: John Adam of Glentig, William Baird in Fallachen, Thomas McIlwraith and Gilbert McIlwraith brothers to the said Hugh McIlwraith of Auchinflour. Never the less, the McIlwraith line continues for Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower & Sarah Maxwell of Monreith had issue as shown in the Old Parish Register: 1. unnamed child child baptised 1st March March 1750 in Ballantrae, Ballantrae, Ayrshire. This is the eldest eldest son Hugh McIlwraith’s baptism, a detailed family tree by James McIlwraith in Poundland says this Hugh McIlwraith was born 30th March 1749 2. Helen McIlwraith McIlwraith baptised (bp) 9th Oct 1751 in Ballantrae, Ayrshire. Ayrshire. 3. Mary McIlwraith bp 12th April 1753 in Ballantrae, Ayrshire. 4. Robert McIlwraith bp 18th Nov 1755 in Ballantrae, Ayrshire. Ayrshire. 5. Alexander McIlwraith bp 9th Oct 1758 in Ballantrae, Ayrshire. 6. Andrew McIlwraith bp 30th Oct 1761 in Ballantrae, Ayrshire. 7. Elizabeth McIlwraith bp 17th Apr 1763 in Ballantrae, Ayrshire. Ayrshire. The manuscript by Jane Dean also states that Hugh and Sarah McIlwraith McIlwraith had a son named nd James McIlwraith who died at Tobago on the 2 Sept. 1778. Another son named Alexander Alexander McIlwraith who who also died at Tobago on the 17 th Jul 1782. The last son Andrew McIlwraith (born 1761) died at Knockdolian Knockdolian 27 th June 1824. It is not stated if Andrew McIlwraith 1761 – 1824 – 1824 had family. The dates came from the bible which belonged to Hugh McIlwraith and that was commenced in 1753. It states Hugh McIlwraith died in Oct 1770, and that his wife Sarah Maxwell of Monreith died New Years Day 1772. Jane Dean wrote she had no prior records of the McIlwraith’s prior to those names listed in Hugh’s bible. But she said the McIlwraith name was known for over 400 years in The Stinchar Valley. Mary McIlwraith, born in 1753, married James McNider and apparently had no children. The sons of Hugh and Sarah McIlwraith went to Tobago as young men to make money as planters there. Andrew McIlwraith, born 1761, seems to vanish from records, whilst the eldest son Hugh McIlwraith died in 1784. Robert McIlwraith, born 1755, succeeded the estates. Robert had lived in Tobago for some years on a plantation. War broke out with France and it is written that Robert McIlwraith fought against them, and barely escaped with his life. Robert swam to another island and eventually came back to Scotland on a vessel. He was rather ill following this but eventually recovered.


As Auchenflower was divided into tenant farms, it was not necessary that Robert McIlwraith lived on it. Knockdolian estate was only two miles away and quite an easy distance to walk or ride from. Knockdolian was a very pretty, snug and cosy place (per Jane Deans’ Diary), built against the old tower (which still stands) on the point of the northeast spur of Knockdolian Knockdolian hill.

Knockdolian Knockdolian Castle Ruin

Robert McIlwraith’s elder brother Hugh took a land tack out in 1779, a few years before he died on the Knockdolian estate, which included the parks. In 1784, Robert took over this land tack which was to be renewed every 19 years. The property was actually owned by the Cathcart family. By this time he was Robert McIlwraith esquire of Auchenflower, a Laird, as had been his father before him. They were one of the main heritable families in the area, and had frequently visited gentry around the area. Ann Mochrie was a daughter of the minister at Colmonell Church, and it was her who Robert McIlwraith married in 1785. Children of Robert McIlwraith & Ann Mochrie: 1. Jean McIlwraith bp 18th Nov 1786 married (m) Edward Wallace 2. Hellen Nelly McIlwraith 1788 – 1864 – 1864 m Alexander McTier 3. Elizabeth McIlwraith 1790 – 1790 – 1875 1875 m John Jamieson 4. Sarah McIlwraith 1792 died the same s ame year 5. James McIlwraith of Auchenflower, born at Knockdolian 1793 – 1875 married twice 1st to Agnes Caldwell Caldwell & 2nd to Agnes Gillies 6. Mary McIlwraith 1795 – 1795 – 1869 1869 m Dr David Dick 7. Ann McIlwraith 1797 – 1797 – 1882 1882 m Thomas Haldane 8. Marion McIlwraith 1792 – 1792 – 1822 1822 9. Sarah McIlwraith 1802 and died the same year


James Mcilwraith Mcilwraith of Auchenf lower alive 1722 Married twice James Mcilwraith in Auchenf lower 1738

Hugh Mcilwraith of Auchinflo ur

Andrew Mc ilwraith alive alive 17 46

Born 1710, Died 21st March1781, Inherited Alive 17 38 Auchenf lower 17 18, mentioned as lost Dinmurchie, Dinmurchie, Ballie of Mary Married Mary his cousin - Eldest son from Mcilwraith, daughter of Gilbert in first marriage Died Auchenf lower circ a unmarried 1717, second marriage 1784 26.6.1748 Sarah Maxwell of Leswalt Hugh Mcilwraith, Robert Mcilwraith, Knockdolian, Knockdolian Born James Andrew 1755-1845 30.3.1749, Alexander Mc ilwraith of Mcilwraith of Mcilwraith of married1785 Ann Died Tobago 1754 - 1782 Tobago Knockdolian Mochrie, dau. Of Unmarried, 1759 - 1778 1761 - 1824 Rev. James Inherited Mochrie Auchenf lower 1781

Jean 1786 ? = Edward Wallace, Balrazie

Hellen (Nelly) (Nelly) 1788 1864 married Alexander McTier

Jane 1823 Robert Mcilwraith Mcilwraith Died 1911 married Poundland 1824 - 1889 John Deans

James Mcilwraith of Mary 1795 Auchenf lower Elizabeth 179 0 1869 married Sarah 1792 - 1793 - 1875 1875 married (1) Dr. Murray 1792 married (1) John Jamieson (2) Dr. David Agnes Dick Caldwell (2) Agne s Gillies

Annie 18 26 1886 m Alexander Wallace

Marion 1799 1822

Ann Sarah Mcilwraith Mcilwrait 1797 h 1802 1882 = 1802 Thomas Haldane

James emigrated Hugh Alexander George Elizabeth Mary 1828 John to (Emi. to Duncan (Emi. (Emi. to 1892 m William 1829 - Mcilwraith of Homebush Homebu emi. to 1855 to Homebush Rev. John ? Knockdolian in 1852, sh homebush Homeb to look after Hunter 1831 - ? master / 1855) 1863 ush) James) NZ family figurehead

Death of Robert McIlwraith of Auchenflower who married Ann Mochrie M'ILWRAITH, Robert Robert – – Died Died 2nd Oct 1845 - At Auchenflower House, on the 2d inst., Robert M'Ilwraith, Esq., of Auchenflower, in the 90th year of his age - highly respected and deeply regretted. Mr. M'Ilwraith succeeded to his estate in 1784, on the death of an elder brother, and during his long possession he has enjoyed the universal esteem of the district for the integrity of his character and his exemplary life; and it is believed that he has left the world without an enemy. Inventory of Robert Mcilraith At Ayr the fifth day of October one thousand eight hundred and forty six years compeered William Brown writer in Maybole who produced inventory of the personal estate of the deceased Robert Mcilraith after designed & also extract disposition & settlement by said defunct & of which inventory & extract disposition and settlement the tenor follows. _ Inventory of the personal estate which belonged to the deceased Robert Mcilraith Esquire Esquire of Auchenflower in the parish of Ballantrae who died at Auchenflower upon the second day of October eighteen hundred and forty five given up by James Mcilraith Esquire in Auchenflower executor nominate conform to disposition & settlement dated the thirteenth 63 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

day of May of May eighteen hundred & twenty three & coincides thereto annexed and registered in the sheriff court books of Ayrshire the twenty second day of October eighteen hundred and forty five. This is the inventory referred to in my affidavit hereto annexed (signed) James Mcilraith, Thos D Notch Commissioner at Girvan the twenty eighth day of September eighteen hundred and forty six years in presence of Thomas Dixon Notch Esquire one of her Majesty’s Justices of the peace for the county of Ayr Commissioner appointed by the Commissary Deputy of Ayrshire for taking the disposition James Mcilraith farmer in Auchenflower to the verity of the personal estate of the said deceased Robert Mcilraith Esquire of Auchenflower appeared the said James Mcilraith who being solemnly sworn and examined depones that the said Robert Mcilraith died upon the second day of October eighteen hundred and forty five leaving a disposition and settlement executed by him and the late Mrs. Ann Mochrie his spouse of date the thirteenth day of May eighteen hundred and twenty three and three several codicils annexed there dated respectively the tenth day of April eighteen hundred and twenty nine the twenty fourth day of April eighteen hundred and thirty seven & the twenty second day of October eighteen hundred and forty three and registered in the sheriff court books of Ayrshire the twenty second day of October eighteen hundred and forty five of which an extract is herewith exhibited & is documented and signed by the deponent & Commissioner as relative hereto by which settlement the deceased conveyed his whole personal estate to the deponent and appointed him his executor that the deponent does not know of any settlement or writing relative to the disposal of the deceased personal estate other than the foresaid settlement. That the inventory hereto prefixed and which is docqueted & signed, by the deponent & Commissioner as relative hereto is a full and complete inventory of the whole estate & effects of the said deceased Robert Mcilraith wherever situated and belonging to or due to him at the time of his decease in so far as the same has come to the deponents knowledge and that the whole of the deceased personal estate and effects situated in Scotland in so far as the same has come to the deponents knowledge is above the value of one thousand five hundred pounds sterling all which is truth as the deponent shall answer to God. Signed James Mcilraith, Thomas D Notch JP. Written by George D Bruce Settlement of Robert Mcilraith “I Robert Mcilraith of Auchenflower, Esquire, considering that by Disposition and Settlement executed by me with consent of Mrs. Ann Mochrie my deceased wife on the thirtieth day of May Eighteen hundred and twenty three I conveyed my whole Estates heritable and moveable to and in favour of James Mcilraith my only son under burden inter alia of payment of payment of the sum of twelve hundred and fifty pounds Sterling of a provision to my Daughters declaring that One hundred pounds of each of their shares shall be secured upon themselves in liferent and their children in fee exclusive of the jus mariti of their Husbands and unaffectable by their acts and deeds or the claims of their Creditors as also that whatever sums I had paid or might pay to my said Daughters to account of their Provisions should be imputed in part of their share of the foresaid sum of Twelve hundred and fifty pounds Sterling as the said Disposition and Settlement which reserves full power to me to alter and innovate the same more fully bears. And farther Considering that by Codicil annexed to the foresaid Disposition and Settlement dated the tenth day of & c. of April Eighteen hundred and twenty nine I directed the said James Mcilraith to divide equally amongst himself and my said daughters share and share alike, the legacy of Five hundred pounds left to me by the deceased Mrs Isabella Caddell of Ladybank under deduction of Legacy Duty. And farther considering that upon the twenty fifth day of October Eighteen hundred and sixteen I advance to Edward Wallace, Farmer in Balrasoy husband of Jane 64 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Mcilraith my eldest daughter One hundred pounds Sterling to account of her share of the foresaid provision and being now resolved for certain good causes and considerations to settle and secure upon my said daughter Jane Mcilraith in liferent and her children in fee the balance of her share of the said Provision and Legacy Therefore in exercise of the foresaid reserved power to alter I do hereby provide and declare that the whole balance due of the said Jane Mcilraith’s share of the foresaid provision provision and Legacy shall be settled and secured by my said son upon her in liferent and her children share and share alike in fee exclusion of the jus mariti of her present or any future husband and shall not be affected by their acts and deeds nor be attachable by their Creditors. And I consent to the registration hereof in the Books of Council and Session or others competent therein to remain for preservation preservation and for that effect I Constitute James Morton, Writer in Ayr my Procurators. In witness whereof I have subscribed these presents written upon this and the two preceding pages of stamped paper by John Donaldson, Donaldson, Writer to the Signet at Auchairne Auchairne the twenty twenty fourth day of April Eighteen Eighteen hundred and thirty thirty seven before before these witnesses: witnesses: the said John Donaldson & David Craig his servant (signed), Robert Mcilraith, John Donaldson, witness, David Craig , witness.” I the before designed Robert Mcilraith Esquire Considering that in addition to the within mentioned sum of One hundred pounds advanced by me on twenty fifth October Eighteen hundred and sixteen to the within designated Edward Wallace now farmer at Balkissock, husband of Jane Mcilraith my eldest daughter there was also paid by me to them on eleventh January last, farther to account of the within written provision the sum of seventy pounds Sterling and considering also & c. also that in consequence of the said Edward Wallace having become insolvent the said James Mcilraith my son interponed his Credit on his behalf, along with Alexander Wallace in Cruise not only for obtaining a Settlement with his Creditors but also for the building of Balkissock Farm house and that the said James Mcilraith and Alexander Wallace are still in advance for the said Edward W allace in the sum of One hundred and sixty pounds and the father sum of Fourty pounds contained in a Bill drawn by the said James Mcilraith upon and accepted by the said Edward Wallace dated the sixteenth day of January last payable four months after date and negotiated with the Ayrshire Banking Company at Girvan which Bill is still u nretrired and in the second place considering considering farther that my daughter daughter Mary Mcilraith Mcilraith presently the wife of William William Blair residing in Dailly has received from me to account of her share of the within Provision the sum of Two hundred and thirty five pounds nine shillings and being now resolved in consequence of my said sons advance and liability in the foresaid sum on account of the said Edward Wallace to alter the destination of the Balance of the share of the foresaid provision payable to my said Eldest daughter therefore in exercise of my reserved power contained in my former settlements I hereby provide and declare that the said James Mcilraith and his heirs executors and successors shall after the death of his said sister Jane have right to the fee of the foresaid balance remaining due to her of said provision and that protanto of his advance and liability for her said s aid husband, Declaring that with this provision and alteration the destination conceived in favour of the said Jane Mcilraith and her children shall be good and valid for any surplus not claimable by my said son. And in the second place being also also now resolved resolved for certain certain good causes & considerations considerations to settle settle and secure upon my said daughter Mary Mcilraith & her children in fee the Balance of her share of & c. of the foresaid provision provision and Legacy under under deduction of the sum of On hundred pounds pounds of the foresaid sum of two hundred & thirty five pounds nine shillings paid to her as aforesaid, and which sum of One hundred pounds I hereby provide and declare shall be repaid by the said Mary Mcilraith & divided equally among her and all my other children share and share alike. Therefore in virtue of my said reserved power to alter I do hereby provide and declare that the balance of the share of the foresaid provision payable to the said Mary Mcilraith shall be settled and secured by my said son upon her in liferent and her children share and share alike in fee exclusive of the jus mariti of her present or any future husband and shall not be affected by their acts and deeds nor attachable by their Creditors. And I consent to 65 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

the registration hereof in terms of the clause of registration contained in the foresaid Codicil. And for that purpose Constitute Constitute James Morton Writer, in Ayr my Procurators. In witness whereof these presents written upon this and the preceding page of stamped paper by Thomas Richmont Anderson, Clerk to John Donaldson, Writer to the Signet are subscribed by me at Auchenflower the twenty second day of April Eighteen hundred and forty three years before these Witnesses: Samuel Hannah and John Muir, servants to the said James Mcilraith. The place and date of subscription and the Witnesses names and designations being inserted by my own hand (signed) Robert McIraith, Samuel Hannah, witness, John Moore, Moore, witness.” Extracted upon this and the twenty two preceding pages of stamped paper By me Sheriff Clerk Depute of Ayrshire (signed) Gilbert McNab Dep. At Girvan the 28 September 1846. This is the Extract Settlement referred to in my affidavit of this date (signed) James Mcilraith Mcilraith Thomas D Rotch Commisar & Justice of the Peace. Written by George D Bruce. Collated by Charles [Paton]. M’ILWRAITH/JAMIESON, M’ILWRAITH/JAMIESON, Elizabeth – Elizabeth – 18th 18th Feb 1875 – At – At Auchenflower, Ballantrae, on the (18)th inst., Elizabeth M'Ilwraith, widow of Mr. John Jamieson, teacher, Colmonell, aged 54 years. Duncan van Reijswoud descended from Ann McIlwraith 1797 – – 1882 and her spouse Thomas Haldane, they are his great great great grandparents and are described below: Thomas Haldane. Born: 11th Jun. 1796, at Carleton Mains, Ayrshire, Scotland. Occupation: Draper and Silk Mercer. Immigrated: Immigrated: 1852, on the clipper ship ‘Lord Stanley’ to Adelaide, South Australia. th Died: 9 Mar. 1878, at 6 Smith Street, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia – – 82 years. Buried: 11 th Mar. 1878, at Boroondara Cemetery, Kew, Victoria, Australia. Married: 4 th May 1829, at Knockdolian Knockdolian Mansion House, Ayrshire, Scotland. S cotland. Anne Mcilraith – McIlwraith – McIlwraith Born: 11 th May 1797, at Knockdolian Mansion House, Ayrshire, Scotland. Immigrated: 1852, on the clipper ship ‘Lord Stanley’ to Adelaide, South Australia. Died: 19th Aug. 1882, at 6 Smith Street, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia – 86 – 86 years. Buried: 21 st Aug. 1882, at Boroondara Boroondara Cemetery, Cemetery, Kew, Victoria, Victoria, Australia. Issue: Anne Haldane, born 14th Mar. 1830, at Truro, Cornwall, Cornwall, England. th Elizabeth A. Haldane, born 11 Mar. 1831 at Truro, Cornwall, England Mary Haldane, born 19 th Jan. 1833, baptized 17th Feb. at Girvan, Ayrshire, Scotland. Jane Haldane, born 26 th Feb. 1836, baptized 27 th Mar. at G irvan, Ayrshire, Scotland. Robert Mcilraith Haldane, born 12 th Nov. 1837, baptized 3r d Dec. At Girvan, Ayrshire, Scotland. Thomas Haldane, born 5th Nov. 1839, baptised 24th Nov. at Girvan, Ayrshire, Scotland. The below Elizabeth Ann Haldane & William Dunn are the great great grandparents of Duncan van Reijswoud. Married. 26th Sept 1856 On the 24th inst., at 86 Dryburgh Street, North Melbourne, by special license, by the Rev. Dr. Cairns, of Chalmers's Free Church, William Dunn, Esq., of Fairy-hills, on the banks of the Yarra Yarra and Darebin Creek, to Eliza Anne, second daughter of Thomas Haldane, Esq., formerly Chief Magistrate of G irvan, Ayrshire, Scotland.

James Mcilraith of Auchenflower 1793 - 1875 married Agnes Caldwell and secondly Agnes Gillies. This would be the last of the McIlraiths to own and farm at Auchenflower. Auchenflower. 66 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Children from the first marriage of James McIlwraith & Agnes Caldwell; Caldwell; 1. Jane McIlwraith bp 21 st Apr 1823 at Knockdolian Knockdolian st 2. Robert McIlwraith bp 31 Aug 1824 at Knockdolian 3. Annie McIlwraith bp 4 th Feb 1826 at Knockdolian 4. Mary McIlwraith bp 8 th May 1828 at Knockdolian Knockdolian th 5. William McIlwraith bp 18 Dec 1829 at Knockdolian 6. John McIlwraith bp 23 rd Oct 1831 at Knockdolian Knockdolian From the second marriage of James McIlwraith & Agnes Gillies; Gillies; 7. James McIlwraith bp 19 th Jan 1834 at Knockdolian 8. Hugh McIlwraith bp 15 th May 1836 at Knockdolian Knockdolian th 9. Alexander Duncan McIlwraith bp 20 May 1841 at Knockdolian The book will pick up on the next stage in the McIlraith's of Auchenflower – that – that of Riccarton Bush in a later chapter.


DINMURCHIE.

A s you yo u will witnes s throug thro ug hout the book ther e are are many ways way s of s pelling D inmurc in murc hie. hi e. The author author has has s ettl ettled ed on this this more modern modern of s pelling pelling s “Dinmurchie” . Out of all the chapters of the McIlwraiths, this may be considered the most awkward for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is possibly a turning point for the McIlwraiths - in one way they lose their first estate. Secondly, it is the starting point for two other very successful landowning branches of the family. Lastly, it was possibly the most difficult to research as the volume of documents were large and their complexity and cross references made them difficult to interpret. Within this chapter the writing in Italics is direct translation from documents held at Kilkerran, Daily, which the author sourced, photographed, reviewed and had transcribed. The Author was kindly given permission from the Fergusson family to view the documents held at the House. To appreciate the period, the closeness (sometimes only for business matters), connections and crossovers between Dinmurchie, Auchenflower and Balcletchie must first be understood. Numerous documents have been found, read, transcribed and analysed and what follows is only what has been sourced to date, with more to be discovered in the future. It must be appreciated that with so many duplicate names across many lines and generations of the families, interpretation of the documents was not an easy task, having to work out who is exactly of which line. However, I believe that what follows is the most accurate available available account of the McIlwraiths of Dinmurchie and their descendants. To understand the Dinmurchie chapter, the first thing the book will look at is the families involved and where they fit together. Gilbert of Dinmurchie - probable birth date for Gilbert is found to be 27 th June 1650; he was the grandson of Patrick McIlwraith of Dinmurchie, born circa 1620, dead by 1657. Patrick’s father was also Patrick. Per “Wadset” he was of D inmurchie on 12th April 1655. The following wadset explains explains that Gilbert was the son of Patrick.


Although impossible impossible to read on screen – – the following document is showing Gilbert and Patrick being in Dinmurchie 1674. Signed by the Earl of Cassillis. Cassillis.

Gilbert is “of” Dinmurchie as a result of his father fathe r who has passed away by 1664. The following document shows Gilbert in Dinmurchie in 1665.

At this same period finds John who was his Grand Uncle and is listed as in Dinmurchie Dinmurchie from th 6 Oct 1659 per Sasines; John died April 1671 in Dinmurchie. However, by 1666 John had purchased Milnjoan from Gilbert Kennedy of Girvanmains, showing that as Gilbert inherited the estate from his father, his Uncle moved elsewhere. GD25/6/200/2 Be it known to all men by this present letter that I Gilbert McIlwraith of Drumurchie Drumurchie refer to a contract of wadset which had been made m ade between the deceased John, Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy etc on the one part and me, Gilbert McIlwraith, with consent of John McIlwraith then in Drumurchie and Andro McIlwraith in Sallachane, my tutors for their interest and John and Andro McIlwraiths, taking the burden upon themselves on the 69 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

other part dated 11 October October 1661. It involved a loan of 2,000 merks Scots which which had been made by the deceased Patrick McIlwraith, my father to the said deceased Earl and which had been recorded in a bond. The deceased Earl had obliged himself to infeft and seise me in an annualrent of 80 pounds Scots, to be uplifted at two terms in the year, Whitsunday and Martinmas, in equal portions out of his twenty shilling land of Aldmay with its pert inents, lying in the parish of Barr and Bailliary of Carrick to be held under the terms specified in the said contract. This contract of wadset contained a Reversion stating stating that the annualrent and lands out of which it was to be uplifted was to be redeemed by the said Earl and his forsaids from me, by paying the principal sum and and interest. It also contained a clause of premonition premonition and requisition requisition among several other articles, articles, clauses and and conditions. At its end was a precept of sasine. I had then been duly and lawfully infeft and seised in the yearly annualrent of 80 pounds Scots to be uplifted at the set terms out of the forsaid twenty shilling land of Aldmay and its pertinents. pertinents. The Instrument of Sasine had been been written by John Shaw, notary public public dated 6 November 1661 and had been duly registered. registered. Now seeing that John, now Earl of Cassillis, Lord Kennedy etc, as son and heir to the deceased John, Earl of Cassillis, has paid me the sum of 2,000 merks Scots together with the interest owing, I hold myself satisfied and pleased and and so discharge him. I therefore resign, renounce, renounce, quitclaim, discharge and overgive the yearly annualrent of 80 pounds Scots to be uplifted at the set terms out of the forsaid twenty shilling lands of Aldmay, lying as above described, together with all right title, interest, claim of right, property, possession, action and instance whatsoever which I or my forsaids had, has or may have done or pretend thereto or to any part thereof to the lands lands in the past or the future, together with with the forsaid contract of wadset, precept and instrument of sasine which followed and all that has followed or which may follow in the future future for now and ever to the noble noble Earl. I grant and confess to him him that the forsaid Reversion and Condition of Reversion set down in the contract of wadset has now been duly and lawfully fulfilled by him, as son and heir to the deceased John, Earl of Cassillis, Cassillis, his father in all points. I, by this present, exonerates, exonerates, quitclaims quitclaims and simply discharges him and his forsaids of the contract of wadset with all that has followed or may follow thereupon. thereupon. And for his and his forsaids further and and better security, I have constituted and ordained (blank) and each one of them conjunctly and severally to be my lawful, undoubted and irrevocable procurators, actors, factors as my special messengers to the effect that they conjunctly and severally do my commission by meeting with the noble Earl of Cassillis, now my undoubted Superior of the said annualrent, as contained in the contract of wadset, on whatever day or days and at whatever place or places convenient and there with condigne reverence by staff and baton, as is the custom, to resign, renounce, surrender, upgive and overgive the forsaid yearly annualrent of 80 pounds Scots, to be uplifted as specified, out of the twenty shilling land of Aldmay together with all right, title, interest or claim of right which I or my heirs or assignees had, have or may have claim or pretend to or to any part thereof in the future into the hands of the noble Earl, as my Superior, there to remain forever as his his own property without without any question or contradiction contradiction whatsoever. whatsoever. Acts, instruments and documents are to be given to him and they are to do all necessary things according to the office of procuratory and the law of this kingdom, as I myself would do, if I was personally present. present. Which Renunciation, Renunciation, Grant of Redemption and Procuratory Procuratory of Resignation above written, I bind myself, my heirs and successors to warrand, acquit and defend to the said noble Earl and his forsaids to be good, valid, effectual and sufficient in all things. I have never made or planned planned to make any Disposition, Disposition, Renunciation, Renunciation, Grant of Lawful Redemption or any other right or security of the subjects to any other person or persons in hurt or prejudice to this present in the past nor will do so in the future. I have delivered the contract of wadset and Instrument of Sasine which followed thereon to be cut and cancelled or to be kept and used by the Earl at his pleasure as his own proper writs and 70 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

evidents in the future. For the more security, security, I am content and consents that this should be recorded in the Books of Council and Session or (blank) court books of (blank) there to remain forever and if necessary for letters of horning to be passed thereon and I constitute (blank) my procurators. procurators. Written by John Hannay, servitor servitor to Robert Hamilton, Hamilton, baillie baillie clerk of Carrick, signed at Maybole, the 17 November 1674, before witnesses, John, Lord Barganey, the said Robert Hamilton and Gilbert Abercrumbie, servitor to the said Earl and the said John Hannay The importance of understanding the relationship of John in Milnjoan to Gilbert can be seen when you read the Balcletchie Chapter, and this also comes into its own when you appreciate that James of Balcletchie, who was highly significant in clearing the debts of Gilbert in later years, was the son of John. As far as the authors can tell, from 1668 Gilbert was borrowing on the back of Dinmurchie, however, it is assumed that his ever expanding farming interests would have covered the repayments. Examples are; Obligation, Obligation, Gilbert Mackellwraith to John Whytfoord, 1674 I, Gilbert Mackellwraith of Dunmurchie, grant that I have borrowed and received from John Whytfoord of Blaruhane the sum of one hundred pounds, whereof I hold myself well contented, satisfied and discharged, discharged, Which sum of one hundred pounds, with the annual rent thereof from 1 May last to the term of payment underwritten, I bind and oblige myself thankfully to content, pay & deliver to the said John Whytfoord and his heirs at the term of Martinmas next coming, With £30 of liquidated liquidated expenses in case of failure, Together with the ordinary annual rent thereof, in conformance with the Act of Parliament, in case of non-payment non -payment thereof, after the term of payment abovewritten, without prejudice to the said John Whyfoord. Whyfoord. And for the more security I am content and consent that these presents be inserted and registered in the books of Council and Session, or any other competent inferior judicatory court, court, And I Constitute Constitute [blank] my proctor. proctor. In witness whereof I have written and subscribed these presents with my hand at Blaruhane on 17 May 1674, Before these witnesses, Patrick John Whytfoord, lawful son to the said John Whytfoord, and Patrick Cunynghame, his servitor. Signed

G. M c ellwraith, John Whitfoord, witness, Patrick Cunynghame, wit[nes]


Obligation, Obligation, Gilbert Mcilwraith to Robert Hamilton, Hamilton, 1672 Att Maybole, 16 July 1691, In the presence of Adam Whytford of Dinduff, deputy baillie of Carrick, sitting in judgment, Appeared personally William Ferguson, writer in Maybole, as proctor for Gilbert Mcilwraith Mcilwraith of Dinmurchie, D inmurchie, and gave in the Bond underwritten, whereof the tenor follows. I, Gilbert Mcilwraith of Dinmurchie, grant that I have borrowed and received from Robert Hamilton, Baillie, Clerk of Carrick, the sum of one hundred pounds, whereof I hold myself well satisfied and paid, Which sum of one hundred pounds, with the annual rent thereof from Martinmas last to the term of payment underwritten, I bind and oblige myself with all my goods and gear whatsoever, Thankfully to content, pay & redeliver redeliver to the said Robert Hamilton and his heirs at the term of Whitsunday next coming, in the year 1673. And for the more security I am content and consent that these presents be inserted and registered in the books of Council and Session, or Baillie Court books of Carrick, And I Constitute Constitute William Fergusone, Fergusone, writer in in Maybole, my proctor. In witness whereof I have subscribed these presents (written by John Hannay, Servitor to the said Robert Hamilton) at M aybole on 28 November 1672, Before these witnesses, David Kennedy of Barclonochen, Barclonochen, and the s aid John Hannay, writer hereof. Extracted from the Baillie Court books of Carrick on 15 June 1699 by me, S. Young. This continual expansion of his farming estate needs to be brought into perspective and scale; he was “in” (renting) Aldunay in 1661, progressed to purchasing Darlae between 1666 and 1672, rented Meikle Lane from 1672 – – 1676, purchased the lands of Douchtie & Garlessin 1676 – 82 – 82 and was in Barclanachan in 1681. However, what can be seen is that he did have funds as he provided a 2000 mark bond to John Earl of Cassilis in 1674. Therefore, he was both borrowing and lending at the same period as he continuously expanded the Dinmurchie Estate. In 1671 Gilbert marries Jean Kennedy the daughter of David Kennedy of Barclanachan, Jean Kennedy was a daughter of David Kennedy of Barclanachan (now Kilkerran Estate) who died 30 th July 1689, and Great Granddaughter of Gilbert Kennedy of Balmaclannaquhan and Margaret daughter of Gilbert Kennedy of Girvanmains. Gilbert Kennedy is the son of George Kennedy and Janet Kennedy, Janet being the daughter of Sir John Kennedy of Culzean. The first Fergusson in Ayrshire was recorded in 1381. Their original home, was situated above the village of Dailly, dating back to 1400. The Fergussons moved to Barclanachan in 1686, a former Kennedy household, household, now the site of the current mansion house. This was rebuilt after 1695 by Sir John Fergusson of Kilkerran, the first baronet, and enlarged in 1814 and 1874. 72 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

David Kennedy also had two sons, James and Robert Kennedy. David Kennedy was descended from the Kennedy’s Kennedy’s of of Girvanmains line, his ancestor being Sir Hew Kennedy, a knight who died in Feb 1577 and was buried in the south end high alter of the church at Maybole. Maybole. Sir Hew had married Lady Janet Stewart, a descendant of Robert the Bruce. This shows Gilbert’s prosperity at this time, as this marriage had to mean that in 1671 he had considerable enough wealth to even be considered an acceptable husband to Jean Kennedy, i.e. he was of the same social class, or was at least very close to being an acceptable husband in terms of status and wealth. The testament of David Kennedy shows in 1680 payment of silver rent of 12 pounds to Gilbert Mcilwraith in Barclanachan. This Gilbert Mcilwraith was actually of Dinmurchie and had married the said Jean Kennedy; the couple had 5 daughters. Jean Kennedy, or Lady Dinmurchie, seems to have had a life rent in various lands, including Dinmurchie and Auchenflower. Auchenflower. Trouble occurred around the time of her death, with huge sums of money being owed on the various farm estates. es tates. As well as building the estate, Gilbert was a Lieutenant in the Earl of Angus Regiment. Regiment. To understand Gilbert and why he may have been so indebted by the end of his life, it may be best to understand a bit about the chief of the regiment he joined. The Douglas estates of the Earl of Angus’ father lay in some of the staunchest Presbyterian, covenanting territory in Scotland, and his tenantry were not at all amenable to King James, a Catholic. Catholic. By 1688, Angus was back in Scotland and had given his support to William of Orange. He set about roaming his father's lands of Douglasdale to raise men, with the intention intention to raise ra ise a new regiment from the Cameronian party. By 1689 he was Colonel of the newly founded Earl of Angus' Regiment. On the 14 th May 1689 he paraded his men on the Marquess' Holm, next to the Douglas Water." Therefore, it is with no surprise that the authors find that Gilbert was a Covenanter, named as a Rebel Heritor in 1682, returning in 1690. Gilbert forfeited the land at Dinmurchie circa 1680/81 as a result of his covenanting. With the idea that he had been borrowing since 1668 and that his debts had been mounting and his income stream and assets removed, there was only one direction in which the situation could go. As at all times through history, even though many large landowners were involved in covenanting, they were never completely down and out and, therefore, this left the likes of the Fergussons of Kilkerran in a very superior position position with respect to acquiring land via the settling and taking of ot hers’ debts. Gilbert and Jean had the following following family. Gilbert – his – his only son; no other mention of this son has been found excluding a record that there is a Gilbert of Dinmurchie noted on the covenanting index as born around 1655 – the – the author has assumed this is the same person. Given all the papers on the McIlwraiths available and the “testament” of “testament” of his father in 1693 he is not mentioned, therefore the authors must assume he dies prior to 1693. Margaret, born prior 1679 married 6 th June 1723 in Colmonell, Colmonell, John Montgomery. Montgomery. Mary, on the 27 th Apr 1723 she is stated as lawful daughter and heir of Gilbert Mcilwraith, testament CC8/8/889. By 1728 is listed as the only surviving daughter of Gilbert. Mary 73 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Mcilwraith Mcilwraith born about 1693 marries in 1710 John Stewart in Kilmarknock. (31 st October 1710 MCLEWRATH MARYJOHN STUART/FR1219KILMARNOCK (AYR)/AYR - OPR597-0000050-0137). Jean, born 29th October 1689. 28/10/1708 MCLWRATH JEAN JOHN CULIES /FR149F BARR/AYR – shows – shows she marries; John Culies in Colmmel & Jean McLwrath OPR580-0000010-0143 Agnes: She is the eldest daughter. In 1721, Agnes as heiress to Gilbert and represents the Earl of Glencairn for payment of sums owed during Dinmurchies forfeiture. She is listed as “Of” Dinmurchie, Darlae, Doughtie, Garlessin 1682 – 92, this is noted in a 1691 Disposition by Gilbert of Dinmurchie to Agnes his eldest Daughter. Spouse to Hugh McColm in Maybole 1722 (married Hugh McCaull, writer in Maybole 25/03/1715 MCLWRATH AGNES HEUGH MCCOLME/FR157FBARR/AYR. In 1712 Agnes agrees to dispose to Hugh of Auchenflower all land and heritables belonging to her father to relieve Agnes of all her father’s debts debts for 2500 merks. Complaint of Barbara, Jean and Margaret M c illwrai illwraith th NAS ref GD25/9/2/14B Unto my Lords of Council and Session,We, your servitors, Barbara, Jean and Margaret Mcilwraith, children to Gilbert Mcillwraith, some time of Dunmurchie, Humbly show that when John, Earl of Glencairne, being donator to the foirfalterie of the said Gilbert Mcillwraith, and of several others within the Sheriffdom of Ayr, did take a commission from his Majesty’s Treasury in the name of one Ferguson who was his servant,And caused him to give submission to James Edmonstoun of Broich for sequestrating the moveable goods of those people who lived within the Bailiwick of Carrick,And Broich [in error for Edmonstoun?] took not just their moveables but also their debts.Your petitioners’ mothers, being sister daughter to Sir Robert Barclay of [?]Petterstoun, did employ him to transact with the said Earl because she could not agree with Carrick, and Sir Robert obtained a missive letter from him to Brioch whereby he enjoined him to dispone the moveable estate and debts of the said Gilbert Mcillwraith.This was not done and it was claimed that the Brioch had power only to take, not to give back.The matter was pursued at the sessions, but Mr Walter Pringle, who originally acted, died before the last session. But their Lordships recommended the petitioners to Lord Edmonstoun, who promised to rectify matters.He gave them a new date to produce the Earls’ letter and the issued a new one.Afterwards Sir Robert turned his back on your petitioners, and being told to follow its instructions, burned it instead, and gave in a long and incorrect statement to the sessions without telling your petitioners.May it therefore please your Lordships to order Sir Robert to be re-examined, re -examined, and to grant diligence to your petitioners. The second set of core individuals involved with the story of the Mc Ilwraith’s and Dinmurchie Dinmurchie are those of the th e McIlwraith’s of Auchenflower. Hugh is the son of Andrew Andrew McIlwraith McIlwraith of Auchenflower. Auchenflower. 01/08/1706 MCLWRATH MCLWRATH JEAN HUGH KENNEDY/FR264F KIRKOSWALD/AYR OPR601-000-0020-0016; per this he marries in 1706 Jean Jean Kennedy the the widow of Gilbert of Dinmurchie. Dinmurchie. Jean and Hugh do not not have children through this marriage, however more than likely Hugh marries Jean to gain Dinmurchie. Dinmurchie. A very v ery common practice of the day. Although he was originally the owner of Aucheflower Aucheflower in 1691 Hugh is renting Auchenflower and associated lands from James McIlraith of Balcletchie, Balcletchie, as a result of James assisting him with the payments of the debts of Dinmurchie. Dinmurchie. 74 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Hugh of Auchenlowers brother is James Mcilwraith of Auchenflower, alive 1722, who inherited Auchenflower Auch enflower in 1718 per Hugh’s will. He had died by 1731 leaving what went on to form the main Auchenflower Auchenflower tree. Hugh and James had a brother Gilbert who is listed as an Attorney in 1700 at Auchenflower, Auchenflower, deceased by 1721. He had three children; Mary, Agnes and Margaret. You will now start to appreciate the difficulty in transcribing documents and in turn placing names on a tree when you have Gilberts in both Dinmurchie and Auchenflower, both with daughters with the same names. This is also a possible poss ible reason why other researchers have incorrectly placed the marriage of Hugh of Auchenflower to be with Gilbert of Dinmurchie’s daughter. One of James McIlwraith’s sons is another Hugh McIlwraith. Eldest son from James second marriage Ref: NAS RS14/11/187 dated 1746. It is this Hugh the story goes that between 1732 and 34, lost Dinmurchie due to legal expenses taken by James Fergusson of Kilkerran fighting John Adam's for the ownership ownership of Glentig - part of o f Gilbert McIlwraith’s estate. Hugh first marries Mary his cousin, the daughter of Gilbert of Auchenflower. His second marriage is to Sarah Maxwell in June 1748. However the story of Dinmurchie concerns Hugh and Mary’s battle for the debts of Dinmurchie which were left to Hugh as the debts of Dinmurchie pass from Hugh Hug h who married Jean Kennedy, through to Gilbert who is Hugh’s brother and onto Mary, Gilbert of Auchenflower's daughter. Who Hugh her cousin eventually marries.

Patrick, Dinmurchie 1655, In So uth Balloch 1659 marries Agnes Lockhart Gilbert Owns Dinmurchie from c16 65, Marries Marries c1671 Jean Kennedy, Covenanter, named as a Rebel Heritor 1682- returns 1690, Gilbert -

Margaret

Mary

Born abt 1693 marries marries 171 0 Jo hn Stewart in born prior 1679, dies prior to 1693 as Kilmarknock. By marries marries 6.6.172 3 in no mention of him 1728, Marries Hugh Colmonell John prior. McIlwraith of Montgomery Auchenflower, Auchenflower, and and finalises matters with Sir John Fergusson

Jean

Agnes (Eldest Daughter)

born 29.10.1689

Of Dinmuchrie, Darlae, Doughtie, Garlessin 1682 - 92; Married to Hugh McColm in Maybole 1722

Barbara


Fact and fiction – fiction – The The True Story of the McIlwraith’s losing Dinmurchie; The core story that Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower was basically robbed of the Dinmurchie Estate by the Fergussons of Kilkerran as a result of the legal battle for Glentig is not the truth of the matter. Yes it plays its part; however, the story is much more complex and detailed than that simplistic view. James McIlwraith, in his speech at the Kings Arms in Ballantrae in the mid 1800s, made mention to the estate that was stolen from his relatives. Sadly, the more likely truth is that in order to build the estate, Gilbert McIlwraith of Dinmurchie built up a considerable debt and, as a result of being part of the Covenenant, had his land confiscated and his debts made due for payment. Fergusson did buy up the debts owed, however these were legal debts and, no matter the creditor, Hugh McIlwraith McIlwraith of Auchenflower was eventually eventually liable for them. them . The following is only a summary of what really happened. In 1673 David Kennedy of Barclanachan provided a life bond to his daughter Jean Kennedy (the wife of Gilbert McIlwraith of Dinmurchie) Dinmurchie) of 2,200 merks – merks – held held with the Earl of Glencairn – presumably – presumably in trust for her future well being. It is highly likely that Doughty and Garleffin came from David Kennedy as “dowry” “dowry” for the marriage. In 1691 Jean Kennedy (on the death of her husband) was given life rent to Dinmurchie – the – the author is unsure if she had the right to live in it for the rest of her days or if she had superior “feu”; however, Agnes, as eldest daughter, had actual ownership ownership of the property. Before 1711, Hugh Mcilwraith (son of Andrew Mcilwraith of Auchenflower dead 1674) borrowed 1,000 merks from John Stewart, the father to Lord Kilmarnock, this is assumed as a pre-cursor pre-cursor to the 1712 arrangement to follow or to pay the “bond” for the three daughters (see below). However, there is mention of a bundle of debts given to Lord Kilkerran in 1711 by Hugh. In 1712 Agnes Mcilwraith, Mcilwraith, the eldest daughter of the then deceased Gilbert of Drummurchie, sold all her father’s debts and the lands of Dr ummurchie Dr ummurchie and Dalrae to Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower Auchenflower for the sum of 5,500 merks. merks. To fund this purchase, purchase, circa 1711, Hugh Hugh borrowed under heritable bond 2,500 merks from his cousin James Mcilwraith in Balcletchie and mortgaged on Auchenflower, Clashlochan and Balrazie. Balrazie. It does look as though in 1714 there is a note that James Hamilton, Sheriff in Ayr is named as Tutor to Mary, Agnes and Margaret. 791 / 2 (Copy below ) Maybole 28.7.1716 John McCaul writer in Maybole. Hugh McIlraith land making an entry in the Baillie books of Carrick. On the 23.4.1717 agreed Hugh Mcilraith of Auchenflower and Agnes McIlwraith eldest Daughter of Gilbert of Dinmurchie belonging to her said father and Hugh is to pay agreed portions of the inheritance belonging to her. Upon this Agnes as the disposition. Hugh acquired debts from the creditors of Gilbert of Dinmurchie disposes to Hugh and his heir’s title and by whole of the disposition. In and to the lands belonging to her father and what lands Jean Kennedy now spouse to Hugh Mcilwraith of Aauchenflower 1,500 merks and relieves Agnes of any debts, signed James McIlwraith Balclatchie.


Maybole 8.7.1716, John Hannay, Baillie. Baillie. Delivery the sasine and give agreement in books of Carrick 1712. Agnes daughters of Gilbert of Dinmurchy. Hugh is to pay said Agnes… belonging to her father. Payments by Hugh fo r Gilbert of Dinmurchie debts. At Hawkhill (on the road between Turnberry and Daily) – Hugh – Hugh McIlwraith of Auchefnlower and Agnes Eldest daughter of deceased Gilbert of Dinmurchie precept of sassine in 1712 whereupon the said Agnes. Disposition Disposition of the sale for the whole debts and such part to what sincere person or persons. Certain sums of money the right she has at the time of her father’s death. Mention Jean Kennedy. 5 ,500 ,500 merks payable Whitsunday and binds Hugh In turn a further £100 bond was given by James to Hugh mortgaged on Dinmurchy (so I assume this was in 1712). 1712) . At the same period Sir John Fergusson of Kilkerran has gathered in all the debts owing by Gilbert of Dinmurchie which I think totals around 13,000 merks. By 1716 Jean Kennedy is now wife of Hugh Mclwraith of Auchenflower. As part of the funding of this purchase Hugh, has borrowed under heritable bond 2,500 merks from James in Balclatchie, mortgaged on Auchenflower, Clashlochan and Balrazie. As for the debts of Huch McIlwraith McIlwraith of Auchenflower Auchenflower there was was in the first place owing by him to James McIlwraith in Balclatchy 2,500 merks by heritable bond upon him paper of Auchenflower, Clashlochan Clashlochan and Balrazie Balrazie and also 100 merks personal bond upon which debts the said James on Auchenflower met only of his and proper estate but also on the lands of Dinmurchie. Dinmurchie. 77 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

By 1715 the three children of Gilbert of Dinmurchie are relieved of all burden of debt and Hugh of Auchenflower is responsible for the debt. An interesting point is that per a document the author has viewed; Mary (daughter of Gilbert of Dinmurchie) was in South Balloch at this point. By this period the debts owed by Hugh appear to have been 8,000. However by 1716 Hugh has not paid the promised sums. In turn, Hugh also had heritable debts which he purchased from Agnes in 1712, and which Sir James had gathered and was looking for payment. It is doubtful that by 1717 Agnes had received any of the money owed, and as Hugh was then married to Jean Kennedy, he was to make good this payment in 1716. The next turn of events which shows that the issues over the legal wrangling of Glentig were not of core concern can be seen in the following. Sir James has agreed to pay the said William W illiam McIlwraith McIlwraith of Balcletchie £2,360 (son of james McIlwraith of Balcletchie) and to take right for him to the said agreement of his security thereof. Therefore the said Mary and .. with cause and taking burden and make payment to the said James sum of £2,360 at Whitsunday next, penalty of £400 pounds. What this shows is that James McIlwraith of Balcletchie sold his debts owed by Hugh of Auchenflower Auchenflower to Sir James Fergusson. The reality of the story is that the transactions were financially managed across the wider “McIlwraith” family; it was not just a case of “robbery” by the Fergussons. Decisions were being made to ensure that debts were being paid off in a managed way. This cross assistance will have been part of farming life since day one, with one part of the family assisting the other – sometimes – sometimes in a small way and sometimes as the values increased considerably, as can be seen in this instance. No matter the decision, the decision had been a business one - the two other estates of Auchenflower and Balcletchie had to continue and Dinmurchie had to be sacrificed. Sir James Fergusson (Sir John’s son) paid off the debt to James in Balclatchie in 1722, thus making Hugh and Mary McIlwraith of Auchenflower debtors to Sir James Fergusson. However, William Stewart, with representation of Kilkerran, pursued Hugh for 2,444 merks – which would have been part of the debts gathered in by Sir James and followed up by his son Sir John. The authors view is that Fergusson gathered in debts valued at 13,000 merks, including those owed to Stewart and James in Balclatchie, and used these as leverage to gain the Dinmurchie Estate. (copy below) Lord Kilkerran thought proper to pursue, for no other purpose than expiring of the legal, to make way for acquiring acquiring the said adjication?? purchased from William McIlwraith (Balcletchie) with the consent of Mary and her husband Hugh Mcilraith of Auchenflower. Talks about conveyance As for the debts of Hugh McIlwraith McIlwraith of Auchenflower owed to William Stewart writer in Edinburgh for the sum £2,444, 8sh as the balance then owing, balance these such debts of Gilbert McIlwraith of Dinmurchie or Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower as owed to William Stewart who Kilkerran is representing. representing.


The note goes on to what the author thinks that “Kilkerran” is paying is paying the debt owed and his discharge and receipt to William Wilson factor of William Stewart. There was a debt due by Hugh McCaul husband of Agnes to Ferguson of Auchenblain before Sir John purchased it from Agnes.

James McIlwraith is pursuing the heirs of Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower for the sum of £2,630, 15s and seasing of them in the lands and others above written……………… The author can only assume that by the time the paperwork was resolved, some debts paid the value of what was owed by Hugh (as owner of the debt) was the 8,637 merks and this was the value the Fergusson’s placed placed on Dinmurchie and it’s estate. By 1722 Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower has died and his heirs – who – who are Agnes and Mary (daughters of Gilbert in Auchenflower) are now burdened with the past. Therefore you have a court case to settle the previous decades disputed debts between Agnes of Dinmurchie and Agnes of Auchenflower. Auchenflower. What is worth noting at this juncture is that even with Jane Deans own diary how family folklore can mis-represent mis-represent fact, Jane within her diary is utilising Paterson’s as the basis of her family history. She states that her father’s Sister Mrs McTier “ that that one of our forefathers married the Heiress of Drumurchie and therefore acquired it as well as Auchenflower Auc henflower ”. I think we have shown that Mary was not the only daughter of Gilbert Gilbert of Dinmurchie, secondly Mary daughter of Gilbert of Auchenflower was also heiress of Dinmurchie on the death of her father. Therefore "folklore" has picked up the story that Mary was obviously the daughter of Gilbert of Dinmurchie. (copy below) 23.6.1722 Minutes of court case of Agnes McIlwraith and Hugh McColm against Agnes McIlwraith daughter Gilbert MciIwraith in Auchenflower. 79 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Kennedy repealed his lybel and .. against the defenders for recovery the agreement by billed on for this reason that some was most fraudulent had the pursuer induced to the signing knowing what she was signing in so far as the Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower with whom she made the … agreement having married her mother when the pursuer was a minor. He there upon look… to… with then what .. to hi s bought in what debt he could find ago which were very inconsiderable. And thereafter when the.. Agnes came to be spoken of misrepresented to the pursuer, who was .. Intensely ignorant of her own affairs, the circumstances circumstances of her… that he had 13,000 13,000 merks of debt on the same and that if the .. would not enter into the agreement he would .. the state and thereby in the will. Whereas there really not about 5,000 merks of good debts on his slate (I THINK THIS IS WHERE THE VALUE OF 8000 COMES FROM – FROM – 13,000 13,000 bad less 5,000 Good). Whereby the pursuer a.. and ignorant woman was frightened into signing the agreement. Avoid all the offered to prove by the … willingness to the agreement. …………………………………………………….. Demand that the pursuer was major when she made the agreement and therefore in at prudens?? and her debt must bound her. And it is not enough to say that she was frightened into the agreement by misrepresenting the circumstances of her slate and therefore .. a judge the same unless the pursuer can qualify and .. a special and … out of fraud for as to that of thereby her with adjudication her.. for debts that were … then major and knowing her affairs or at least persuade to know the sums and having the .. friends and the …….


In 1724 Agnes daughter of Gilbert in Auchenflower is dead and Mary starts the process of reconciling reconciling with Lord Killkerr K illkerran an – – interestingly interestingly again Mary resides in Balloch. By 1729 James – James – Sir John Fergusson’s son is now attempting at tempting to resolve the issues. (copy below) It is agreed and …. Mary McIlwraith of Auchenflower with consent of Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower her husband and said Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower for himself and are .. burden for his said said spouse they both with one and Sir Sir James Fergusson of Kilkerran and the other. That is to say that William McIlwraith in Balcletchie has right adjusted for the deceased James McIlwraith in Balcletchie against the lands of Auchenflower, belonging belonging to the said spouse for the accumulated sum of £2,630 in 1722. Hugh all owed owed the expiry of the legal…. The said Hugh McIlwraith and having no other means to pay said debt but the balance of the price of the lands of Dinmurchie etc s old to the deceased Sir John Fergusson of Kilkerran for 8,000 merks. These are not payable to the death of Jean Kennedy relict of Hugh. Therefore Jean Kennedy lives on in Dinmurchie throughout this turmoil and until she dies the closure cannot be achieved, this all goes back to the life rent agreed by her father David Kennedy of Barclanachan. It took until 1738 to fully complete the transaction as Hugh died and the continuing claims went against Hugh’s other brother Gilbert in Auchenflower, and then onto his daughters. In the meantime James in Balcletchie becomes owner of Auchenflower for a short period from Hugh’s will.


(copy below) At Kilkerran 20.1.1737 it is agreed between Mary McIlwraith of Auchenflower with advice of her Husband Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower and said.. for himself totally burden him for his spouse and they both will are consent and .. in one part and the honourable James Fergusson of Killkerran That ……………………………………………………….6.5.1724 and ratification there of date in the books of the sasine disposition disposition the lands of Dinmurchy and others to the deceased Sir John Fergusson of Kilkerran and appoint.. Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower my Uncle and such have sought contract between him, Hugh and Agnes (daughter of Gilbert of Dinmurchie) Dinmurchie) dated 26.4.1712 years in the books of Carrick dated 8.7.1716 years transferred transferred to him the disposition the land of Dinmurchie and others. …. Sir John .. his own obligation to her for the performance of the further in her forms and accordingly granted to her his obligation for these effect of which this of the said Gilbert debts and being .. known that Sir James Ferguson now of Kilkerran should have some paramount.. for his relief… James M in Balclatchy was … for Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower in the .. two therefore 500 merks principal sums by one heritable bond granted by him by Hugh upon the lands of Auchenflower, Clashlochan and Balrazie Balrazie dated 1713 in Sheriff Court books books of Ayr. But all the lands of Dinmurchie etc now belonging to the said James.

818/19 1737 Be it known to all men by these present me Sir John Fergusson of Kilkerran forasmuch as a Contract of agreement between Agnes McIlwraith eldest daughter of 82 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Deceased Gilbert of Dinmurchie relict of Hugh McColm having disposition of her said father whereupon stood in the land of Dinmurchy and Darlae on one part for her said father and deceased Hugh McIlwraith McIlwraith of Auchenflower on the other parts. When upon 13.4.1738 a final over to be made between ? and Mary McIlwraith and her husband and be the lifelong of the price of …. To allow and had had , Margaret, Agnes and Mary for the …,deed of sale at which .. heritable bond… by Mary and her husband in .. proper.. of Auchenflower, Clashlochan Clashlochan and Balrazie Balrazie of the severed.. fully and particularly.. served.. the whole of this affair, whatever, Mary and her husband as may of a copy …. Sasine of Mary Mcilwraith Mcilwraith of lands of Auchinflower, Auchinflower, 1738 NAS ref RS14/9/403 Sasine Mary M c ilwraith At Ayr, 29 May 1738, the sasine following, presented by Peter Thomson, Officer in Kilmarnock, was registered. Be it known that on 12 April 1738, In the presence of me, the notary public underwritten, underwri tten, and the witnesses afternamed, Appeared personally personally Hugh M c ilwrai ilwraith th in Auchinflowe A uchinflower, r, in the name of himself and his c wife, Mary M ilwraith of Auchinflower, And came to me on the soil of the within-desiganted lands, having in his hands a nuncupative precept of sasine and a precept of clare constat, granted by John Cathcart of Gainoch in favour of the said Mary M c ilwraith, Which precept he handed over to James M c Connell of Carnlae, specially constituted by the same, and asked that the office committed to him in the same m ight be performed, Which baillie, accepting the same, handed it over to me to read over and explain to the witnesses standing by, the tenor whereof follows in the se words. John Cathcart of Gainoch, immediate lawful superior of the lands and other things wihtin-written, wihtin-wri tten, send greetin greetings gs to James M c Connell of Carnlae and make you my baillie in this regard. Whereas the late Hugh M c ilwraith of Auchinflower died vested and seised of the whole lands of Auchinflower, with the buildings, parts, appendages and appurtenances thereof, lying within the parishing of Ballantrae, Bailiwick of Carrick and Sheriffdom of Ayr, And whereas Mary Mcilwraith, now of Auchinflow Auchinflower, er, spouse of Hugh Mcilwraith, now in Auchinflower, is the only daughter of Gilbert Mcilwraith, next-born younger brother of the said late Hugh Mcilwraith, and is of lawful la wful age, And whereas the said lands are in fee-farm from me for the sum of £8 10s Scots money annually, I therefore order you, on sight of these presents, to deliver sasine of the said lands of Auchinflower Auchinflow er to the above-mentioned Mary M c ilwraith, as heir of the said late Hugh M c ilwrait ilwraith h her paternal uncle, by earth and stone of the same ground.


Written by William Blane, writer in Maybole. Signed, sealed and dated at Knock, 10 April 1738. Witnesses John

M c Coshrie, William Blane, Alexander M c Whirter, Halbart

Muat.

In summary the following was the result of the money relating to the Dinmurchie Estate. Price (valuation??) of Dinmurchie £8,637 +22 years rent £392.12 Paid Agnes per disposition dated 7 th July 1724 (£2,687) Reduced by £2,000 for not bearing rent until Death of Jean Kennedy, Lady Dinmurchie (£2,000) Seems William in Balcletchie has made the debts o n the lands that Hugh and Mary couldn’t pay it so put it onto Jean Kennedy’s life rent and as soon as she d ied the 8,000 merks became due. Balance £617 Balance of rent Whitsunday 1724 – 1724 – March March 1732; +£240 Balance £857 28th May 1729 Mary McIlwraith (£60) 3rd March 1732 Willi W illiamm amm Stewart (£217) Balance £580

Interest on balance £282 To Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower £862. This is the value v alue Fergusson of Kilkerran pays Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower. The length of the dispute ran on for nearly 43 years. Jane Deans own diary again shows how a family history can be mis-represented, on Page 50 by a direct quote from the speech of James McIlraith in Ballantrae where he states that "Dinmurchie was wrested from my forefathers for nothing more than the expense of a law suit". Again suit". Again there is no doubt that there was a dispute between Hugh/Mary and Adams and they lost this lawsuit - and James goes onto say that due to money troubles the wadset couldn't be paid and Fergusson took the Estate. Without over dramatising it, what arises is a very plausible family cover up. Gilbert of Dinmurchie for whatever reason builds up a considerable debt, Hugh purchases these debts and the right to Dinmurchie from Agnes daughter and heiress of Gilbert of Dinmurchie, to fund the purchase Hugh borrows from 84 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

James in Balcletchie. Fergusson gathers the debts of Gilbert (13,000) and in turn buys the debt on Dinmurchie from James; Hugh is now in debt to at least 8,000. In 1724 Agnes daughter of Gilbert in Auchenflower is dead and Mary starts the process of reconciling with Lord Killkerran, and that reconciliation being a payment of £862 to the heirs of Hugh. I think that the Adams of Glentig part is a f inal straw in this complex financial debacle.


BALCLETCHIE. The Balcletchie chapter of the book doesn’t begin at Balcletchie; Balclet chie; it starts with John in Dinmurchie who purchased Milnjoan from Gilbert Kennedy of Girvanmains in 1666. This followed from his father Thomas being in Mylnegowane, from his testament of 1636 (note the different spellings).

This is a photograph of the Mull of Milnjoan taken from Pinnanent. (Colin McNally) 2011 The connection and importance of Milnjoan will be seen in the following pages – – as with many connections within the book there is no document which you can go to which states that this is the family tree and presents it neatly to you. Therefore, it is only through transcribing testaments and researching documents that you can start to place names as brothers of and descendants of family members. John marries Janatt McHucheon, and is in Dinmurchie from 6th Oct 1659 per Sasines, by 1666 he purchased Milnjoan Milnjoan from Gilbert Kennedy of G Girvanmai irvanmains. ns. Sasine of John Mclewraith of Land of Milnjoan, 1704 NAS ref RS14/7/88r Sasine of ... Mclewraith ... Balloch At Ayr, 8 May 1704, The following sasine was presented by John Baird of Laingrielair Laingrielair in Kilmarnock. May it be evident to all that on 17 April 1704, In the presence of m e, the notary public underwritten, and the witnesses underwritten, Appeared John Mclewraith Mclewraith in South Balloch, who is the lawful and next heir of the late John Mclewraith Mclewraith in Dunmurchie his father, having in his hands a certain precept of sasine from Sir Adam Whytford of Blairwhan, Blairwhan, Knight, Baronet, in in favour of the said John Mclewraith Mclewraith in South Balloch,


Whereas a certain John Mclewraith in Dummurchie, father of John Mclewraith in South Balloch, died last seised of the 40s-land of Milnjoan, in the parishing of Bar, Bailiwick of Carrick, and Sheriffdom of Ayr, Which lands, indeed, came to the hands of the late John Mclewraith in Dummurchie by the death of the late Gilbert Kennedy of Girvane, for the sum of 1300 marks Scots money, according to a contract made between them dated 9 February 1666, with instrument of sasine dated 7 th May 1668, And to which lands the said John Mclewraith Mclewraith in South Balloch is the lawful and next heir of the late John Mclewraith in Dummurchie his father, and he is of lawful age. The said 40s-land of Milnjoan is held in chief by the annual payment to Sir Adam Whytford of 8 marks Scots money. Therefore we order you to deliver estate, sasine and corporal possession of the above land to John Mclewraith in South Balloch as lawful and next heir of the said late John Mclewraith in Dummurchie. Written by John Marline, writer in Edinburgh. Signed, sealed and dated at Edinburgh, 27 January 1704.

Sir John Ferguson of Killkerran, the said John Marline, and Alexander Glass , writer to the royal signet. Witnesses:

In the same year John is in “Dinmurchie” Dinmurchie ” finding him there from 14 th March 1659 in in “Leane “L eane”” after his father died. The Lanes is opposite Balcletchie. John was also in G lengape 1659 and took a lease of Meakle Leany 8 th March 1660. This appears to have been a considerable expansion for John over a period of 2 -3 years. In 1661 along with Andrew in Sallochane, John is attorney to Gilbert for sasine of Aldunay. Gilbert being the great nephew of John. “Appeared John McIlwraith in Dummurchie, as attorney of Gilbert McIlwraith, the son and heir of the late Patrick McIlwraith of Dummurchie, having in his hands an alienation containing a precept of sasine, dated 11 th October 166 1” 1” John died in April 1671, in Drummurchie, he had the following children, based partially on the information extracted from John’s 1671 testament. Testamentar of John McIlwraith, 1671 Reference CC9/7/39 At Dunmurchie Dunmurchie on the twelfth day day of April 1671, I, John Mcillwraith in Dunmurchie, nominate, constitute and ordain John Mcillwraith my eldest lawful son to be my only heir, and executor legator, and intromittor with my whole goods and gear, heritable and moveable, And likewise I nominate and appoint Gilbert G ilbert Mcillwraith of Dunmurchie, Adam McCutham in Schallach, Quintein Dick in Dallmel Longtoun, Andrew Mcillwraith of Achinflour and Gilbert 87 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Mcmertin in Dallyne to be overseers to my said executor to see his latter will and testament perfected. Item in the first place he ordaine his said son executor legator aforesaid, to pay and deliver to James Mcillwraith my youngest lawful son the sum of four thousand marks Scots money so soon as he shall come to age to choose curators, And that the said James my son shall have the rent thereof after my decease for his maintenance and support until he come to the age of fourteen years whereby he may choose his curators, and then to be secured or paid by the advice of his overseers, And secondly I ordain my said executor to content and pay to Janatt Mchuchoun my spouse the sum of one hundred marks yearly during all the days of her life, together with a third part of the moveables, to wit, of the sheep, cattle, horses, mares, cereals cropped, inside goods and furnishing, my debts being first taken out of the whole head of my moveables aforesaid, Item I ordain my said executor to pay to my eldest daughter Jean Mcillwraith the sum of two thousand marks at the next lawful term of Martinmas after my decease, which is and shall be to her in full satisfaction and contentment of all portion natural and bairn’s part of gear that she can ask, claim or crave, either by testament, bond, act, contract, or any other manner of way whatsoever in and through the decease of her father any manner of way. Item I ordain my said executor to pay to Issobell and Margaret Mcillwraithes, my two youngest daughtere, the sum of three thousand marks, to be equally divided between them, with rent for the same, to be their support, Which sum of three thousand marks, to be equally divided between between them as said is, shall be to them in full contentment and satisfaction of all bairn’s part of gear or portion natural that either of them can ask, claim or crave in and through the decease of their father in any manner of way, either by testament, bond, act or contract, or any other manner of way whatsoever. Item I give full power to my aforesaid executor and legator to give up an inventory of debts owing in and out or until I fail. Item, as to debts owing owing by me; In the first place, to Jonet Mcillwraith in Leane, one hundred and twenty pounds. Item to Margaret Mcillwraith Mcillwraith in P inchoyntie, fourscore pounds. Item to Mathew Mccouthies Mccouthies bairns in Pinanatt, for my deceased brother Patrick, Patrick, for legacy in I, Sir Wm. Fleiming F leiming of Ferme, Knight and Baronet, Commissar Commissar of Glasgow, By the tenor hereof, Ratify, approve and confirm this present testament testamentar and inventory in so far as the same is lawfully and truly made and given up, nothing omitted forth thereof nor set within the fair value therein contained, At Glasgow on the 13th day of October 1671. From the above the authors can ascertain; 88 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Jean (Eldest Daughter) Daughter) born circa circa 1655 Isobell, born circa 1658, died by 1687 Named as Sister German to James in Milnjoan. Jonet in Lane, named as beneficiary beneficiary of Johns 1671 testament. Patrik Mcilwraith died before 1671 later of Straiton. (Mentioned as desceased brother to John in 1671). married 27 th Dec 1654 at Straiton to Marion McClellan. What follows is a number of his family who stay around the Straiton area, including including John Mcilwraith of Straiton who married Margaret Kennedy died Oct 1618 with the a reference including a Robert who married 14th June 1839 in Straiton Sarah McCulloch (farm servant). He is listed as a Coal Pit Headsman in 1861 Including Gilbert McIlwraith Merchant in Straiton. John (died 1671) had two other children; children; John, John is named in Johns 1671 testament as eldest son, he is eventually listed as a covenanter in 1684 and takes the bond, aged 30 in 1685, making him born 1655. John is in South Balloch by 1687 per Isobel’s testament and is noted in Balloch (with 4 hearths) on 1691 Hearth Tax. What can be noted at this point is the s ize of South Balloch – Balloch – it it has four hearths which is a considerable sized farmhouse for the period. This is a larger building building than is currently on the site. Isobel’s testament Isobel’s testament is printed below as it provides evidence of many of the names within the “Balcletchie” “Balcletchie” tree. Testament Dative and Inventar of Issobell Mcillwraith 1687. Reference CC9/7/47 The testament dative and inventory of the goods, gear, debts and sums of money which pertained and were owing to the late Issobell Mcillwraith, sister German to James Mcillwraith In Mill: [?]Joan within the parish of Barr at the time of her decease, Who died in the month of September 1686, Faithfully made and given up be the said James Mcillwraith, brother German to the defunct, and executor dative surrogat in place of Mr James Young, Procurator Fiscal etc, Who is executor dative decreed etc by decree of the Commissar of Glasgow, Upon the 26th day of April 1687. Inventory Sum of the inventory

£19 13s 4d

Debts owing in Item there was indebted and owing to the deceased at the time aforesaid the sums of money underwritten, underwritten, by the persons following, viz, In the first place, by the said James Mcillwraith, executor, £466 13s 4d Item by John Mcillwraith Mcillwraith in South Balloch £133 6 s 8d 89 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Sum of the debts in

£600

Sum of the inventory and debts in

£619 13s 4d

Debts owing out Item the deceased was indebted and owing at the time aforesaid, to the said executor himself, for one year’s aliment boarding of the deceased, in aliment and ap parel, in accordance with one written agreement, £100. The sum is clear There rests of free gear, debts deducted

£100 £519 13s 4d

John is in Darlae 1701; Agnes McIlwraith, Daughter of Gilbert McIlwraith of Dunmucrhie is listed as owner of Darlae at this time. John marries a Jean McMillan, Mylne Jowane, parish of Dailly, Jean is found to have died in Dinmurchie. Dinmurchie. See the following following record of this marriage. marriage.

They had the following family; John in South Balloch 1722 (assume oldest son) he marries and has 4 children. Sasine of John Mclewraith of Land of Milnjoan, 1704 NAS ref RS14/7/88r 90 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Sasine of ... Mclewraith ... Balloch At Ayr, 8 May 1704, In the presence of m e, the notary public underwritten, and the witnesses underwritten, underwritten, Appeared John Mclewraith Mclewraith in South Balloch, who is the lawful and next heir of the late John Mclewraith Mclewraith in Dunmurchie his father, having in his hands a certain precept of sasine from Sir Adam Whytford of Blairwhan, Blairwhan, Knight, Baronet, in in favour of the said John Mclewraith Mclewraith in South Balloch, Whereas a certain John Mclewraith in Dummurchie, father of John Mclewraith in South Balloch, died last seised of the 40s-land of Milnjoan, in the parishing of Bar, Bailiwick of Carrick, and Sheriffdom of Ayr, Which lands, indeed, came to the hands of the late John Mclewraith in Dummurchie by the death of the late Gilbert Kennedy of Girvane, for the sum of 1300 marks Scots money, according to a contract made between them dated 9 th February 1666, with instrument of sasine dated 7 th May 1668, And to which lands the said John Mclewraith Mclewraith in South Balloch is the lawful and next heir of the late John Mclewraith in Dummurchie his father, and he is of lawful age. The said 40s-land of Milnjoan is held in chief by the annual payment to Sir Adam Whytford of 8 marks Scots money. Therefore we order you to deliver estate, sasine and corporal possession of the above land to John Mclewraith in South Balloch as lawful and next heir of the said late John Mclewraith in Dummurchie. Signed, sealed and dated at Edinburgh, 27 th January 1704. Witnesses: Sir John Ferguson of Killkerran, the said John Marline, and Alexander Glass, writer to the royal signet. After the reading which precept of sasine John Mcfayden the baillie delivered sasine of the 40s-land of Milnjoan to the aforenamed John Mclewraith in South Balloch. Upon all of which John Mclewraith in South Balloch asked me to make m ake a public instrument. These acts were done on the lands of Milnjoan between 4 & 6 PM. There can be then found a number of children 24/07/1715 MCLERAITH ANDREU JOHN MCLERAITH/M MCLERAITH/M BARR/AYR, Andreu son to Jo[hn] Mcleraith Millnjoan 04/01/1719 MCLERAITH ISOBELL JOHN MCLERAITH/F BARR/AYR, Isobell daughter to John Mcleraith in Balloch 30/05/1702 MCILWRATH MARGRET JOHN MCILWRATH/FBARR/AYR MCILWRATH/FBARR/AYR 05/05/1695 MCILWRATH JANNET JOHN MCILWRATH/FBARR/AYR, Jannet daughter to John Mcilwrath in South Balloch 91 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

13/02/1698 MCILVRAITH GILBERT JOHN MCILVRAITH/MBARR/AYR, Gilbert son to Jon Mcilvraith in Dalharn And James; Noted in the Hearth tax of 1691 as in Miljoan, and further proof of James being in Milnjoan can be found in Isobells testament 1687. (above) and also, James is noted as not being of age per John 1671 testament. Born circa 1659, James Mcilwraith, became a Tenant farmer in Balcletchie between 1691 & 1701. As with most farming famili fam ilies es to this day – James – James being the youngest would not be handed down the family farm, he would have to make his own way in the world. To do that he was fortunate to become the tenant farmer in Balclatchie. John in Balloch Balloch , died April 167 1, in Dinmurchie, married Janatt McHucheon In Drummuchrie Drummuchrie from 6th Oct 1659, 165 9, Purchased Milnjoan Milnjoan from Gilbert Kennedy o f Girva G irvanmain nmains s in 1666 .

Patrik Mcilwraith died before Margaret in Jonet in Jean (Eldest Isobell 1671 later of Pinchoynte Lane Daughter) Straiton

J ame s

J o hn in Ballo c h

married 27.12.1654 at straiton to Marion McClellan

m1 Marage Maragert rt Martin Martin 1687 - had no children, m2 married Sarah Shaw 29.11.1695

In South Balloch by 1687 168 7 , married married Je an McMillan, died die d in Dinmurchie

John in Sth Balloch 1722 (assume (assume oldest son) Noted as Guardian of J acobina and and David McIlwraith of Balcleatchie

Based on the following, James first married Margaret McMartin at Dachairn on 1 st Dec 1687 - an Ante-nuptial contract of marriage between James McIlwrath in Miljoan and Margaret Martin, daughter of John Martin of Dalquhairn of a life rent in favour of Margaret. Margaret must have died relatively young and relatively soon after the marriage. Marriage Settlement, Mcilwraith Mcilwraith and Martin, 1687 Ayrshire Archives ref 60/1/6 At Dachairn, the first f irst day of December 1687, it is appointed, agreed and finally ended, and matrimonially matrimonially contracted, Betwixt the parties following, to wit,


James Mcilwraith in Miljoan on the one part, And Margaret Martin, only lawful daughter to John Martine of Dalghairn, for herself, with consent of her said father, and the said John Martine for himself, and they both with one consent, on the other part, In manner, form and effect as after follows, that is to say, Forasmuch as the said James Mcilwraith and Margaret Martin have accepted, and by these present do accept, accept, each one the other, other, for their lawful lawful spouses, And which sum of 1000 marks the said James Mcilwraith Mcilwraith and Margaret Martin his future spouse ... accepted and by these presents accept in full contentation and satisfaction of all bairns’ parts ... gear, portion natural and other provision whatsoever that they or either of them can ask, claim or crave of the saidJohn Martine and his foresaids by bond, contract, testament or any other manner of ... whatsoever, except his own goodwill only, Before these witnesses, ...bert Martine in Achingairne, and William McColline servitor to John Martin of ...hairn, and the said John Martine inserter[?] of date and witness. James then married Sarah Schaw. The following is the testament of Sara Schaw in 1735. Testament of Sara Shaw, 1735 Ayrshire Archives ref 60/1/10 I, Sara Shaw, relict of the deceased James Mcleraith in Balcleathie, considering the certainty of death but uncertain as to the time thereof, I have resolved to settle my affairs while I am sound in memory and Judgement, so as to avoid differences that might otherwise arise and fall out after my death, whenever it shall please the almighty God to call for me, ordering my body to be buried in the churchyard of Barr in a decent manner as becometh my station. Therefore wit ye me, the said ... ... [obscured by crease] love and favour I bear to William Mcleraith in Balcleatchie my son, to m ake, constitute and ordain him, Like as I by these presents do make, constitute and ordain the said William Mcleraith, my Executor Testamentar and universal intromettor with my whole goods, gear, debts and sums of money due to me, by bill, bond or any other manner of way whatsoever (with and under the burdens of legacies after mentioned), With full power to my said executor to follow, search and seek after my said effects, in whose hands the same may be found, and to make up inventory if need be which shall be sufficient to the receiver, and confirm the same, and generally to do, use and exercise every other thing necessary for recovery thereof, as well I might or could have done before the granting hereof. And I hereby ordain my said Executor to pay to Andrew Mcleraith my eldest son in life the sum of eight pounds sterling money, and that at the term of Martinmas immediately following year and day of my death, with annual rent from the said term of payment. Also I ordain my said Executor to pay in manner foresaid to Elizabeth Ballantine, relict of the deceased Hugh Mcleraith my son, for the behove of Hugh, Sara, John and Margaret Mcleraith, children procreated betwixt the said spouses, the sum of Eight pounds sterling money. Also I ordain my said Executor to pay in manner foresaid to Margaret Mcleraith, spouse to John Mountgomrie in Kilchrinnie, the sum of Eight pound sterling money. Also I ordain my said Executor to pay in manner foresaid to Anna Mcleraith Mcleraith my daughter the sum of Eight pound sterling money. And further I ordain my said Executor to pay and clear up my just and lawful debts, and to see equally divided betwixt the said Margaret and Anna Mcleraith my said daughters all my body clothes after my death which shall happen to pertain to me. 93 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Testament of Sara Shaw, 1735 Ayrshire Archives ref 60/1/10 And lastly I ordain my said Executor to give to the said Margaret and Anna Mcleraith all my household plenishing which which shall happen to pertain to me m e the time of my decease, but with this provision, that my said Executor shall have full power to determine how much any or either of my said daughters shall get of the said plenishing, so that he can give the whole to one, or any part thereof he pleases. Sara Shaw For as much as by the with testament there is a power lodged in the Executor of disposing to his two sisters the whole household plenishing, plenishing, so that he can give the whole to which of them he pleases, Therefore, as he has disposed of all the said household plenising plenising in favour of my wife Anna McIlwraith, I do with consent of said wife grant receipt thereof, and discharge him accordingly. In witness whereof I have written this with my own hand and subscribed by me and my said wife at Balclechie the thirteenth of July one thousand seven hundred and forty one years, Before these witnesses, William Maitland and John White, both servants in Balclethie. James Houatson Anna Mcilwrak Mcilwrak William Meatland, witness

As noted previously James marries a Shaw – the Shaw’s were notaries in Maybole, and throughout this book you will see reference to them as both witness and notary / writers to the McIlwraith family. He has five children; children; Margaret and Anna. Eldest son - Andrew Mcilwraith, alive 1746. Ref: NAS RS14/11/187. The authors are unsure of what happened to Andrew; he was alive in 1746 and it may be as a result of him being from the first marriage that he made a life outside of the normal route where he would have taken on the running of the family farm. Hugh Mcilwraith married Elizabeth Ballantine, who was baptized in Ayr on 14 th Sept 1690. Elizabeth was daughter of John Ballantine, provost in Ayr, who married Elizabeth Crawford, baptized 21 st Feb 1664 in Ayr. John Crawford was a merchant in Ayr who married Margaret Wallace. He was a Deacon Convenor in Ayr in 1670 – 75. – 75. The author is unsure as to why James ended up as a pivotal, influential and obviously wealthy individual. He was left 4,000 merks as part of his inheritance and used this to purchase farms, rather than just renting Balcletchie. The first look at Balcletchie today would suggest that it is a small hill farm; however, in many of the maps it is noted as having a large house with trees around it. Whatever he did, James started a farming legacy which would surpass all other McIlwraiths'.


His influence touches two key “aspects” of the McIlwraiths of Ayrshire; James is central to the Dinmurchie chapter and he remained Superior Feu of Auchenflower, which then passed to his son W illiam. illiam. James m1 Maragert Martin Martin 1687 - had no children, m2 m arried Sarah Shaw 29.11.1695 Tennant Farmer in Balcletchie - dies prior to 1735

Hug h

A nna

William (at Bothwell)

(m1) Andrew Mcilwraith alive 17 46

Marg are t

D avid

Jacobina Mcilwraith born 30.11.1748

known as Elder of Kirkland in 1782, later known as elder in Dalreoch m1 Jean Furgusson died circa 1734, 16.2.1731, Great Granddaughter of Sir John Fergusso n of Kilkerran

Sarah, married Agne s 30.11.1752 Mcilwraith David Leggat baptsed of Barlockhart 5.12.1734

William Leggat of Barlockhart & Dalreoch

William Mcilwraith in Balcletchie baptised 13.8.1733

m2 Helen McClure

Jean Mcilwraith born 1 1 .1 1 . 1 7 4 6

Johanna Mcilwraith born 15.12.1751

Married 19 Sept 1779 Captain Primrose Kennedy

m 20 Sep 1762 in Dailly Janet McHarg, Later younger in Balcletchie & of Dalreoch Hugh McIlwraith Surgeon - given probate for Williams estate

Helen Kennedy

Primrose Kennedy Primrose William William of Drummellane

Mary Kennedy

Quintin Kennedy m Primrose Hamilton James Kennedy of Dalreoch

Within Scotland, and only up until a few years ago, there was the concept of "superior feu". Prior to 1832 only the vassals of the crown had votes in parliamentary elections elections for the Scots counties, and this made in favour of subinfeudation as against sale outright. Feu was previously the most common form of land tenure in Scotland, as conveyancing in Scots law was dominated by feudalism until the Scottish Parliament passed the Abolition of Feudal Tenure etc. (Scotland) Act 2000. The word is the Scots variant of fee. In feu holding there is a substantial annual payment in money or in kind in return for the enjoyment of the land. The crown is the first overlord or superior and land is held of it by crown vassals, but they in their turn may feu their land, as it is called, c alled, to others who become their vassals, whilst whilst they themselves are mediate overlords or superiors; this process of sub-infeudation may be repeated to an indefinite indefinite extent. Therefore, James, and then his son William, was the superior feu even after sale of Auchenflower Auchenflower back to Hugh McIlwraith. McIlwraith. 95 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

William Kennedy

Jame’s final son is William. William appears to consolidate his father’s wealth and uses that to expand the family estate. As well as Milnjoan and Balcletchie, William received a Land Tack in 1725 for Pinmirrie Pinmirrie (Pinmerry is next to Balcletchie). This can be substantiated further when this shows see that William Macleraith in Balclathie, joined 28th March 1739, Burgess and Guild Bretheren (P 131). In 1755 1755 we have him as “of” (owner) Dalreoch of whom they purchased it from the Fergusson ’s. William in in 1766 is also owner of Brunston and is known as Elder of Kirkland in 1782 (Ayrshire Archives 60/10/17). Dalreoch, in 2014 is under the ownership of the family of the Duke of Wellington, was an acquisition acquisition made by William The above (I do not have the above) & five preceeding pages is the Inventary Referred to in the Disposition of this Date granted by the before designed r Alexr Fergusson & Katharin Watson his Spouse to William Mcilwraith of in Balclaitchy. In witness whereof these presents are Subscribed by the sds Mr Alexr Ferguson & William Mcilwraith Mcilwraith At Kilwining this Third Day of May Seventeen hundred hundred & fifty one years, Therefore the belief is that he purchased Dalreoch from Fergussons of Barclanachan in 1751. However Dalreoch itself came up for sale through the demise of another very well local landowning family, that of the McAlexanders. A family who the McIlwraiths have been associated with over the period. Gilbert McIlwraith in Straiton has listed his grandfather as a “McAlexander”, also Hugh McIlwraith who marries Sarah Maxwell, her grandfather was a McAlexander. It appears the Dalreoch Estate went the same way as Dinmurchie, in that in the end the McAlexanders were highly indebted and Fergusson of Barclanachan stepped in and bought up all their debts. Bond by said Hugh Mcalexander to Mr John Fergusson of Barclanochan Advocat for two thousand merks Scots prin[cipa]ll dated 22d Octo[be]r 1700. Decreet of Adjudication said Wm Fergusson ag[ain]st sd Hugh Mcalexander of the lands of Dalreoch, Kilchring, Roughill, Fardinreoch, Craigcannochy, upper &nether Ballickmurrays, for the accumulat sum of Eight thousand Eight hundred & ninety two pounds eleven shilling & Eight pennys Scots dated 15 June 1704 & abbreviate yrof duely recorded These are considerable debts being built up and in the end assigned to Fergussons. Eventually the lands were sold to William McIlwraith. It may be no co-incidence that William married Jean Fergusson. He married twice; the first marriage was on 16 th Feb 1731 to Jean Fergusson who died circa 1734. Ayrshire Archives record 60/1/8 shows an Ante-nuptial contract of marriage between Mrs Jean Fergusson, daughter to William Fergusson of Auchinblaine and William McIlwraith of Balcleatchie, Balcleatchie, concerning financial provisions. At Ayr, 10 th Feb. 1731. Ayrshire Archives 60/1/18 shows that William Mcilwraith provided for Jean to the sum of 23,000 marks scots.


Jean Fergusson was the daughter of William Fergusson of Auchenblain, the granddaughter of Sir John Fergusson of Kilkerran (died August 1647) and married (circa 1612) Helen Kennedy (daughter of Sir Thomas Kennedy of Culzean).The Fergusson’s are still very much part of Ayrshire today and are said to have descended from Fergus, Lord of Galloway. Jean’s Jean’s marriage to William does not appear to fit given her status and family heritage. Therefore whatever his father James had done before had made him a very wealthy and influential individual. The purchase of Dalreoch by William from Jean’s inlaws shows that the family ties continued long after Jean’s death. Both par ents ents of William’s wife belonged to old Ayrshire land-owning land-owning families. He must have been prospering to be able to make such a marriage, and marrying into these families would have increased his prestige in the area. However there is also a record that in 17 31, Due to the frailty of Wm McIlwraith’s life and certainty of his death Jean Ferguson has written a disposition. It passes 1/3rd of all her moveable goods goods to her Husband in in the event of her death. However he outlives outlives Jean and th died at Brunston 5 March 1788 an “ Old Old Man” Man” . As you read on to the story of Thomas of Newton, the fact that William died in Brunston would mean that William owned and was in Brunston at that time was rented by Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower, and in turn was being farmed by Thomas of Newton’s descendants, who is Hugh of Auchenflowers brother. William McIlwraith has turned out to be a very interesting character and he almost succeeded in establishing his branch of the family as one of the main Ayrshire landowning families. It could be argued that his legacy did live on. Within the Disposition, William McIlwraith McIlwraith to W illiam McIlwraith McIlwraith Junior shows *(, dated the 3 day of May 1751 years Registrate in the Sheriff Court books of Ayr on the 9 th day of January 1752 years,) years ,) d

And having already Implemented to William and Sarah M c ilwraiths, my Children of my first marriage, the Obligations I came under by the Contract of Marriage past betwixt me and Jean Fergusson my first wife, their mother, And by Separate deeds of this date I have made provisions for [blank] M c Clure my present wife and Jacobina M c ilwraith the only Surviving Daughter and Child of my present Marriage, and made such unconditional provision to the said Sarah M c ilwraith as I thought reasonable, At the time of writing writing this testament in 1751 William William holds the lands of the following following All and whole my Three-pound-land Three-pound-land of Upper and Nether Ballick, Murrays, Fardinreoch and Craigconchie, with the Teinds thereof, both great and small, parsonage and vicarage, houses, buildings, buildings, yeards, parts, pendicles and universal pertinents pertinents of the same, s ame, And all and whole my Three-mark-land of Dalreoch, with the Mannor place, houses, woods, and fishing in the water of Ard Stinchar, as far as belongs to the saids Lands, and Teynds of the same, ... ... [part not photographed] [Image 4] ... ... of Roughhill of Old Extent, [with the] teinds of the same, both great and small, parsonage and vicarage, with the several houses, buildings, yeards, parts, pendicles and and universal pertinents pertinents of the same, same, From this first marriage Willi W illiam am had the following children. children.


Sara Mcilwraith baptised 15 th Nov 1731 married 30 th Nov 1752 David David Leggat of Barlockhart. David Leggat was a surgeon in Glenluce - Ayrshire Archive 60/1/16 Sasine in favour of Sarah McIlwrath, now wife of David Leggat of Barlockhart following on a contract of marriage between herself and David Leggat, of payment of m oney from the lands of Little Barlockhart, Merkland and Cassendeo Cassendeoch ch and his house house and yard in in Glenluce. 11 th Nov. 1755. Bond of provision by William McIlwrath of Dalreoch in favour of Sarah McIlwrath his daughter and David Leggat, surgeon surgeon in Glenluce of annual annual rent. At Brunstoun, 13 th May 1762. Interesting from the 1751 disposition Sara is granted the following if William (William the fathers sole heir passes first) To the said Sarah M c ilwraith my Daughter and the heirs lawfully procreat or to be procreat of her body, body, All and whole the said Three-mark-land of Dalreoch, with the Mannor place, h ouses, woods, and fishings in the water of Ard Stinchar, as far as belongs to the saids Lands, All and whole whole the said Three-mark-land Three-mark-land of Kilibirnzie, Kilibirnzie, with the Croft of Land called called the Chappelcroft, And all and whole whole the said three three Markland of Roughhill Roughhill of Old Extent, With the teinds of the whole forsaid Lands, both great and small, parsonage and vicarage, with the several houses, buildings, yeards, parts, pendicles ... ...

Within 2012A3 (AA) Obligation, William McIlwraith to Sarah McIlwraith and Helen Leggat, 1762; states I, William M c Ilwraith of Dalreoch, On Consideration That I provided Sarah M c Ilwraith my Daughter in the Sum of Three Hundred pounds Sterling money by the Contract of Marriage past betwixt David Leggat, Surgeon in Glenluce, And likewayes likewayes to make good and thankfull payment payment to Helen Leggat, Daughter Daughter of the c saids David Leggat and Sarah M ilwraith, in case she Survive me, her heirs, Executors or Assigneys, of the t he Sum of One Hundred pounds Sterling money, And that at the first term of Whitsunday or Martinmass after my death,

As shown by the next extract – – William passed to his son the following as part of the marriage contract and acquired Dalreoch. Scroll disposition by William McIlwrath of Dalreoch in favour of William McIlwrath, his son, of the 3 lib land of Upper and Nether Balluhmurrays, Fardenreoch and Craigeonchir, the 3 merkland of Dalreoch with fishing in the water of Ardstinchar, 3 merkland of Kilchrinnie Kilchrinnie with with the Chappelcroft, Chappelcroft, merkland of Ruchill Ruchill 1762.


The signature of William Leggat of Dalreoch Lastly there is a tack (contract) ; Mr James Mochrie, minister at Colmonell to William McIlwraith, younger of Kirkland with William McIlwraith, elder as cautioner, of the farm or mailling of Little Dandgart. Dandgart. At Brunston, 1783. The following testament shows the extent of the estate, his status and his family structure. Testament of William M c Ilwrath, 1754 Wm M c Ilwrath of Dalreach, Feb[rua]ry 16 th 1754 I, William M c Ilwrath of Dalreach, Ordering my Body to be Buried in a Decent manner as Becometh my Station, I hereby nominat and appoint William M c Ilwrath my Eldest Son my Sole Heir and Executor upon his making payment of my Just and lawfull Debts, and of the liferent and provisions after after Specified, Specified, And I hereby appoint and Ordain the Said William M c Ilwrath my Heir and Ex[ecut]or to make payment to Helen M c Clure my Beloved Spouse, in Case She Shall Survive me, the Sum of thirty pounds Sterlin, yearly and Termly as after Specified, Specified, as her liferent and annuity and as her share of my Effects, at two terms in the year, Whitsunday and Martinmass, by Equal portions, And in Case my said spouse shall Happen to marry a Second Husband, then and in that Case her liferent is hereby Reduced to the Sum of fifteen pounds Sterlin, payable as above Directed. And as my Eldest Daughter Sarah is some time ago married to David Leggat of Barlochart, with qom I Covenanted of Tocher [marriage dowry] three Hundred pounds Sterlin, by Contract of marriage Entered into Dated [blank] of No[vembe]r Seventeen Hundred and fifty two years, by qch Covenant They Discharged me of all the said David Leggat and his now Spouse Can pretend to in and through my Decease Excepting my own good will allenerlly, Also I appoint and ordain my Said Son Wm, Wm , my Heir and Ex[ecut]or, to Satisfie and pay to my Second Son David the Sum of five Hundred Hundred pounds Sterlin Sterlin when he arrives at the age of twenty one years, with the legal Interest of the said five Hundred pounds Sterlin from the first Whitsunday or Martinmass following my Decease, to be payd him yearly and termly for his aliment and Education. If a Daughter or Daughters, payable in the verry same manner as the portion is pay[ab]le to my [daughter] [daughter] Jacobina Jacobina before Specified, Specified, 99 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Also I ordain and appoint appoint my Said Heir and Ex[ecuto]r, att the first term of Whitsunday or Mart[inmas]s after my Death, to Satisfie and Pay the Sum of twenty five pounds Sterlin for the use of the poor of the Parishes of Daily, Girvan and Barr, one third part yrof to the Kirk Session of Daily, anoyr third part yrof to the Session of Girvan, and the Remaining third part yrof to the Kirk Session of Barr, Each third part being one Hundred pounds Scots, to be Distributed and given given out by the R espective Kirk Kirk Sessions for the Releif of the poor and necessitous within within yr parishes, And as my Son David David and my Daughter Jacobina are young young and of non age, I hereby nominate and appoint my Said Spouse yr Guardian and tutrix for management of yr affairs, also Guardian and tutrix to any oyr Children I and my Said Spouse may have, to act for the Behove of all by the advice of John Hamilton of Bargany, James Chalmers of Kildonan, M r William Allan, Min[iste]r of Barr, and John M c Ilwrath in South Balloch and Hugh M c Ilwrath Chyr[ugeon] [surgeon] in Ayr, or any three of ym is hereby Declared Sufficient to act and Direct yrin, and this nomination only to Subsist in the person of my Said Spouse During her Widowity, And in the Event of her marriage I hereby nominat and appoint the Said John Hamilton, Jas Chalmers, M r Wm Allan, and John M c Ilwrath in South Balloch and Hugh M c Ilwraths or any three of ym Tutors and Sole managers of the affairs of my Son David and Dau[gh]ter Jacobina or any other younger Children that may happen to be, as said is, And to Call yr moyr [their mother] to Strict Compt and Reckoning for her intromissions, and leaves it optional to these Gentlemen, if they shall think it fitt and Sees it for the good of my said younger Children So to do, to take in my Said Son Wm, my Heir and Ex[ecut]or, to assist ym in the management of yr affairs, And it is hereby Especially provided and appointed that in Case my Son William, my Heir and Ex[ecut]or, should happen to Dye without lawfull Issue of his own Body, that then and in that Case my Son David Shall Succeed him in Everything he is possessed of, Heritable, moveable, Real or personall, and in that Event the provision hereby made to the said David shall be equally Devided amongst my other Children then in life. And lastly I Hereby Impower and Commission Commission the said John Hamilton, James Chalmers, M r Wm Allan, John and Hugh M c Ilwraths, or any three of them, as soon as ever they shall Judge it proper, to oblige the said William M c Ilwrath my Heir [and Executor] to Secure a sufficient fund for pay[men]t ... ... payment of the wh... ... ... Effect att the instance of the whole or any three of the above named Gentlemen, Gentlemen, Consenting to the Registration hereof in the Books of Councill and Session or oyr Judges Court Books Competent, that letters of Horning on Six Days Charge and all oyr Execution needfull may pass hereon in form as Effeirs [is fitting], And yrto Constitutes Constitutes [blank] my Pr[ocurat]ors. Pr[ocurat]ors. In witnes qrof I have writen this my Testament and latter will with my own hand upon Stamped paper, Consisting of this and the three preceeding pages, and Subscribed the Same att Balcletchy this Sixteenth day of Feberwary Seventeen Hundred and fifty four years.

Wm M c Ilwrath Upon my leaving Balcletchy Mart[inmas]s last, and Entering my Son William to the possession of Balcletchy and all the lands I possessed lying Contigue [contiguously] to the same South of Penwhaple Burn, And Gave him the Severall Stocks of Said lands upon inventory, and the whole Houshold Plenishing Plenishing of the said House of Balcletchy, to accompt to me for all the Same as I pleased to Demand Demand of him, Therfor, and now Seeing I have provided and am to provide my now house of Brunston in houshold plenishing and furniture I hereby m ake over the Same wholly, Heirship 100 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

moveables Included, in favours of my Said Spouse, for her own behove, my and her Children David and Biny M c Ilwraths, So that my Said Son Wm has no Interest yrin, or my said Spouse any interest in the furniture or Plenishing of the house of Balcletchy. In witnes qrof I have writen this w[i]t[h] my own hand and subscribed the same at Brunston this first day of Jan[uar]y Seventeen Hundred and fifty seven years.

Wm McIlwrath This was added to the testament at a later date; As now my Son David is Dead, to my Inexpressible Inexpressible Grief, I hereby ordain the one half of his provision of five Hundred pounds Sterling to be payd by my Ex[ecut]or to my Daughter Sarah, the other half to my Daughter Jacobina, by and attour their proper provisions appointed appointed them by by this Deed. I have writen and Subscribed this Codicil to my Testament this ninth Day of ... Seventeen ... [an]d sixty one years.

Williams children with Jean Ferguson were; Sara, who in the testament of William McIlwraith 1754 (see above) is the eldest daughter who had a son William, who was later known as W illiam illiam Leggat of Barlockhart & Dalreoch Agnes Mcilwraith Mcilwraith baptised 5th Dec 1734 And William, who is his eldest son per the testament, William Mcilwraith Mcilwraith in Balcletchie th baptised 13 Aug 1733. He carried and expanded his father and grandfathers interests. Marries 20th Sep 1762 in Dailly Janet McHarg, : daughter of James McHarg McHarg of Keirs. Keirs was a small estate in Straiton parish, not far from the town of Dalmellington. (James (James McHarg is on record as the owner in 1759. He died between 1777 and 1780 and was succeeded by his son Willi W illiam.) am.) William McIlwraith Purchased Mununcion circa 1788, and was Factor of Bargany. (Later known as younger in Balcletchie & of Dalreoch). Little Dungart either being rented 1782 (Ayrshire Archive 60/10/17) - Hugh McIlwrath Wittness (This is his Nephew who is the surgeon listed on the next page). William has a family; William Mcilwraith born 2 nd August 1763 son lawful to W William illiam Mcilwraith Mcilwraith younger in Dalreoch in Balcletchie He died before 1767 Peter McIlwrick is born circa 1760 / 1770 in Balcletchie, Barr. He was listed on his marriage certificate to Margaret Margaret McMurray McMurray as a farmer and Shepherd. Shepherd. Peter has a son son Thomas McIlwrick Born: November 28, 1792 in Balcletchie farm Barr, Died: January 24 th 1869 in South Mains farm, Kirkoswald Aged 76 ,Farmer & Cattle Dealer. Therefore the McIlwraiths connection with Balcletchie can be seen to continue for 200 years. Peter has a large family and descendants are found both locally and also in Melbourne. Melbourne. A second William Mcilwraith Mcilwraith is born 1st Dec 1767, son lawful to William Mcilwraith younger in Dalreoch in Balcletchie. Balcletchie. From William’s William’s descendants descendants there is a hint of understanding the background of their predecessors. predecessors. He has a son James; born born 4 th July 1764 he marries 27 th 101 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

June 1809 in Ochiltree a Jean Gibson born 29 th July 1788. They have have a child William McIlraith, Agricultural Implement Maker in Maybole. David McIlraith is Williams son who is born Cadder 14 th April 1850. They have a son William "MacLaren" McIlraith, McIlraith, born 1 3 th march 1878 in New Kilpatrick, Dunbartonshire. He becomes a licenntiate of the Royal Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons, Edinburgh, Residing at Duntulm, Whites terrace, Manningham, Bradford. He registers the following Coat of Arms, sadly the authors have been unable to find a picture of the coat of arms; “MacILRAITH (L.O.). Purpure, a saltire between a galley, a galley, sails furled, oars in action in action in chief , and any Esculapian rod in in base, and in the dexter flank a stag's head cabossed, cabossed, and in the sinister, an eagle displayed all aigent. Mantling purpure, doubled argent, Crest — Crest — On a wreath of his his liveries, a dexter dexter arm in armour, couped couped at the elbow proper, the hand holding holding a cross crosslet fitchee gules. Mottoes — "Air muir 's air tir " ; and below the shield, shield, " Per mare per terras." Son of David Macllraith, of Cadder. ; married 1878, The following picture of a McIlwraith crest can be found – however – however although the " Per mare per terras." Is correct the picture does not match the descriptive words above.

Mary Mcilwraith born 7 Mar 1774

James Mcilwraith born 4 th Jul 1764 married Elizabeth Galbraith. His marriage is noted as at Bridge End Dailly Dailly and his occupation is is listed as a Coal Miner. Miner. His family move to Ireland and David his son is David of Ballyminstra. His son John marries a Jane Logan born Ireland, who is the daughter of Logan a farmer at Balloo. By 28th Dec 1787 Hugh Hamilton of Pinmore is offering £8,200 for the land of Kirklands Ayrshire Archives, Archives, 60/10/19. Therefore Therefore the estate is is worth a considerable considerable sum. What is remarkable from Williams marriage to Jane Ferguson is that within 2 -3 generations the family have left the area and prior to that have become coalminers. Which does not fit with the estate owned and the wealth which was surrounding the family as they grew up? The conclusion available is that as in many landed family the estate is handed down only to one individual. In this case Willi W illiam am re married after Jeans death


The other possible reason is that Jean dies and William remarried Helen McClure on 16 th Aug 1744. Strangely William W illiam is noted in 1744 as Horsemaster in Balcletchie even though at the same time he is listed as owner of several farms. Helen, even more stranger is listed as a servant at Balcletchie in 1744. No matter what the specific conditions were in 1744, their descendants continue the family estates and marry into the established families of Ayrshire. Their children are; David noted as son of “WILLIAM MICKLEWRATH/HELEN MCCLURE FR143 born Maybole 3.11.1743”. Per W illiams’s illiams’s testament testament 1754 is his second sec ond son. David, who had a son called Hugh McIlwraith. The authors found a Grant of probate to Hugh McIlwrath, surgeon, as executor of William Montgomery, late of St. Andrew Holborn in the County of Middlesex. In this document he is noted as Nephew of Wm. McIlwrath of Dalreoch. The document is dated London, 22 nd April 1773. David, per the 1754 amendment, had died by 1761, which means that he must have had his son Hugh at an early age. Continuing Continuing W illiam’s family; Jean Mcilwraith born 11 th Nov 1746, as there is no mention in the testament of William McIlwrath in 1754 therfore it can be assumes she has died by 1754. Johanna Mcilwraith born 15 th Dec 1751, as there is no mention in the testament of William McIlwrath in 1754 and again assumes she has died by 1754. Jacobina Mcilwraith born 30 th Nov 1748, Married 19 Sept 1779 Captain Primrose Kennedy. Primrose was the son of Captain David Kennedy of Drummellan (an estate in Dailly parish near Kilkerran) and Primrose Kennedy, daughter of Hew Kennedy of Bennane. (This Bennane or Bennan is in Ballantrae parish, and is separate from Bennan in Dailly parish, which William McIlwraith owned.) In the 1751 testament Jacobina is granted the following if W illiam (son and heir) dies prior to her. And to the said Jacobina M c ilwraith my Daughter, and the heirs lawfully to be procreat of hir hir body, All and whole my said Three-pound-land Three-pound-land of Upper and Nether Ballick, Murrays, Fardinreoch and Craigconchie, with the Teinds thereof, Great and small, both parsonage and vicarage, houses, buildings, yeards, parts, pendicles and universal pertinents of the same, All lying as before-written,

Both David and Jacobina were “not of age” in 1754 and they were placed under guardianship guardianship of Hugh McIlwraith, Surgeon in Maybole, and John McIlwraith in South Balloch. This was however never required as William had a long life at Brunston. “Ante-nuptial “Ante-nuptial contract of marriage between Primrose Kennedy of Drummellan and Jacobina McIlwrath, youngest daughter of William McIlwrath of Kirkland, saising her of the mansion etc. of Drummellan, and the rents of 20s land of Baldunnan with mill, 10s land of Aird alias Drumburle now called Drummellan, 5 lib lands of Bogg now called Attiquin comprising the lands of Boggtoun, Lochland, Lochland, Tunnoch and Fardingi F ardingilloch lloch and 2 merkland of Glengowland. At Brunston, Brunston, 26 Aug. 1779.” 103 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Given this shows the social level William’s family had reached t he t he full contract is copied below; Marriage Contract, Kennedy – Kennedy – McIlwrath McIlwrath Ayrshire Archives ref 60/1/17 It is Contracted, Agreed, and Matrimonially Ended between Primrose Kennedy of Drummellan Esquire, Esquire, late Captain in the forty fourth Regiment of foot, On the One Part, And Jacobina Jacobina M c Ilwrath, youngest Daughter of William M c Ilwrath of Kirkland, Esquire, with the Special advice and consent of her said father, And the said William M c Ilwrath for himself and as taking burden for his said Daughter, And they both with one consent, On the Other Part, in manner following, following, That is to Say, Whereas the said Primrose Kennedy and Jacobina M c Ilwrath have Accepted, and hereby accept, of each other as lawfull Spouses, and Promise to Solemnize the Bond of Marriage between then with their first conveniency, Therefore in contemplation of the said marriage the said Primrose Kennedy Binds and Obliges himself and his heirs and Successors, upon their own Proper Charges and Expences, to infeft and Sease the said Jacobina M c Ilwrath in the liferent of the Mansion House, Office, Houses and Garden of Drummellan and Twenty Acres of land adjacent to the said mansion-house, during all the days of her lifetime, from and after his decease, in case she shall happen to survive him, but under the condition hereafter mentioned, And also in a liferent Annuity of One hundred and fifty Pounds Sterling, free of all Taxes, burdens or impositions whatsoever, Yearly to be uplifted and taken at two terms in the year, Whitsunday and Martinmas, by equal Portions, during all the days of her lifetime, from and after his decease, in case she shall happen to survive him, beginning the first term’s Payment thereof at the first term of Whit s or Mart s after his death, but subject to the restriction under-written, Furth of All and Whole the twenty Shillingland of Baldrennan, with the Mill, Astricted Multures, Sucken, Knaveship and whole Pertinents thereof, and Tithes, Parsonage and Viccarage, of the same, As also All and whole the ten shillingland shillingland of Aird otherwise called Drumburle, and now called Drummellan, with the Pertinents and Tithes, Parsonage and Viccarage, of the said Lands, And also All and whole the five Pound land of Bogg called Attiquin, comprehendi c omprehending ng the lands of Boggtoun, Lochland, Tunnoch and Fardingilloch, and the two markland of Glengowland, with the Pertinents and Tithes, both Parsonage and Viccarage, of the said whole lands, All lying within within the late Bailliary of Carrick and Shire of Ayr, Or furth of any part or Portion of the said whole lands, readiest Rents, Mails and Duties of the same; But it is hereby expressly Provided and Declared that during the existence of any Child to be procreated of the said Marriage, or of the heirs to be lawfully Procreated of the body of the said Child, the fores d liferent Annuity of One hundred and fifty Pounds St r shall be and is hereby restricted to the sum of One hundred and twenty pounds Sterling, Sterling, free of all Taxes, burdens and impositions whatsoever, annually to be uplifted and taken at the terms and by the Proportions Proportions before mentioned, furth of the Lands and others before Specified, And it is likewise expressly Provided and declared that as soon as the Child of this marriage, whether male or female, who shall be entitled to succeed to the Lands and Estate above and hereafter mentioned, shall either be married or attain to the age of twenty one year’s complete, year’s complete, if such Child shall desire it, the said Jacobina M c Ilwrath shall be obliged to yield and give up to him or her the Possession of the said Mansion House, Office, houses and Garden and Twenty Acres of Land, with all claim she has or can Pretend thereto, To be holden, the said Liferent right and Liferent Annuity, under the condition and restriction before mentioned, either of and under him, the said Primrose Kennedy and his heirs and Successors in the said Lands, or from them of and under his immediate lawfull 104 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

Superiors of the same, in free blanch for Payment of one Penny Scots upon the ground of the said Lands at the term of Whitsunday Yearly in name of blanch farm if asked allenarly, And that either by Resignation Resignation or Confirmation or both, the one without Prejudice of the other. As Also the said Primrose Kennedy Gives, Grants and Dispones to and in favour of himself and the heirs whomsoever of his body, whether of this or any future marriage, the eldest heir female and the descendants of her body, still excluding all heirs Portioners, and succeeding always always without division throughout the whole course of Succession, so oft as the same shall devolve upon females descended of the body of him, the said Primrose Kennedy, So that the right of ... ... [top edge missed in photographing] place among the female Heirs so descended in like manner as it does among male heirs, Whom failing, to Robina, Margaret, and Janet Kennedy, Sisters german to the said Primrose Kennedy, equally between them, them, and the Heirs whomsoever of their bodys, Whom all failing, to the nearest heirs and Assignees whomsoever of the deceast David Kennedy of Drummelland, father of the said Primrose Kennedy, Not only, All and Sundry the lands, Teinds and others Particularly before Specified, with the Pertinents thereof, lying and described as aforesaid, with and under the burden always of the foresaid liferent, right and yearly annuity Provided to the said Jacobina M c Ilwrath, But Also All and whole the lands of Corfin, with the Houses, buildings, yards, parts, pendicles, Teinds parsonage and Viccarage, and pertinents thereof lying in the Parish of Barr and Shire foresaid. In which whole lands, Teinds and others the said Primrose Kennedy Binds and Obliges himself to infeft and Sease himself and his Heirs above mentioned in due and competent form, And that either by Resignation or Confirmation or both, the one without Prejudice of the other, To be holden of his immediate lawfull Superiors of the same in the same manner, and as freely in all respects as he holds or might hold the same himself. And for making the said Infeftment effectual by Resignation Resignation the said Primrose Kennedy Constitutes and appoints [blank] and each of them jointly and severally his lawfull and undoubted pro[curato]rs and Attorneys with ... ...

Primrose Kennedy of Drummellan and Jacobina McIlwrath have 5 children; Helen, Primrose, Mary, and William W illiam Kennedy, (William was killed in the Siege of Mallegaun, India.) They also had Quintin Quintin Kennedy who marries Primrose Hamilton. Hamilton. Quintin and Primrose had two children Primrose William of Drummellane Drummellane and James Kennedy of Dalreoch Quintin was a prosperous banker in in the town of Ayr, and was provost (Mayor) of Ayr in 182527, and again in 1829-31. He was succeeded by his son Primrose William Kennedy, who carried on the banking business and was also provost of Ayr in 1855-61. 1 855-61.


The monument in Wellington Square, Ayr for Captain Primrose Willaim Kennedy, erected by Public Subscription Subscription in 1886.

Within 2012A3 (AA) Obligati O bligation, on, William Mcilwraith Ayrshire Archives 60 -1-15 Do therefore, and for the Love, favour and affection which I have and bear to Helen M c Clure my wife and Jacobina M c ilwraith the only Surviving Daughter and Child procreat betwixt us, and with and under the Declaration Declaration and Reservation Reservation after-specified,

William in the October 1774 General Election Election is noted as Willi W illiam am McIlwraith of Kirkland. At this period there was an economic downturn - the bank in Ayr collapsed in 1772. Large landowners like the Bargany family had the resources to survive, but many small Ayrshire landowners who had borrowed heavily heavily were ruined, and although they put off selling as long as they could, many small estates ended up being sold off around the end of the century. Within all the papers reviewed, no mention of financial downturn appears on the records of the Balcletchie McIlwraiths. The author believes it is down to the changing family make up that, as you move into the next generation, you find that the estate was broken up and that William Leggat of Blockhart inherited Dalreoch and Balclatchie, which then eventually passed into Primrose Primrose and James Kennedy’s estates. Mununcion was sold by trustees to Robert Blane. Gilbert Blane, who acquired Auchenblain in 1740, was married to Agnes McFadzean, which again harks back to earlier McIlwraith and McFadzean marriages. This testament closes an extraordinary chapter of land ownership within the Mcilwraith family. Ironically, the land which was bought from Kennedy descendants ends up, through marriage of Jacobina and through bequests, back in the hands of Kennedys. 106 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

A FAMILY OF COVENAN COVEN ANTERS. TERS. No matter what generation of McIlwraiths you look at, or in which century, what is witnessed is an uncompromising following of the Presbyterian ministry. In the previous chapter of Dinmurchie, the author believes that Gilbert’s beliefs were his downfall; not poor “estate” management. The timing could not have been worse; he built up debts and then in 1680/1, at the height of covenanting, covenanting, his estate was forfeited. Jane Deans (more of later), once established in New Zealand, set up the “Scottish Church”. James McIlwraith of Auchenflower (again more of later) layed the foundation stone of the newly formed Free Church in Ballantrae in 1843, and when a large gathering was assembled in the Kings Arms in Ballantrae to tribute his achievements, he did not forget his Presbyterian ancestry. To this day, the McIlwraiths in Ballantrae are still closely connected with the Church of Scotland with members of the family holding various offices and roles in the current Church, from the Session Clerk and the “Beadle” (Church Off icer) Off icer) to Elders and board members. The table where on most Sundays the collection is counted comes from the Free Church. The sense of belonging to this religion was never as strong as around the 16th and 17th centuries when the McIlwraiths McIlwraiths of all branches suffered for their cause. This chapter is not a detailed account of what each McIlwraith did during his covenanting days, but more of a summary of those who the author is aware was involved. Firstly it is best to provide an overview of the time. The following has been extracted from http://ayrshirecovenanters.org/ The Covenanters were 17th-century Presbyterians who committed themselves to keeping their form of worship as the sole religion of Scotland. In a bid to prevent a new liturgy and the structures of the Anglican Church being forced on them by Charles I, they signed the National Covenant in 1638 to maintain their form of worship and church government in Scotland. Between 1638 and 1688 Scotland was in an almost constant state of civil unrest because many people refused to accept the Royal decree that the king was head of the church. In 1643 English Parliamentarians and Covenanters joined forces against Charles under the Solemn League League and Covenant. The deal was that the Scots were to receive £30,000 and and a guarantee that Presbyterianism would be set up in England as well as in Scotland. In return the Covenanters would supply an army, which they did. It swung the balance of the conflict against Charles in the early part of the English Civil War. However, in 1647, now fearing the increasing power of Oliver Cromwell, the Covenanters changed sides. The Covenanters made a secret deal with Charles that, in return for supporting him, he would abolish the Anglican episcopacy. It was the wrong side to back. The Covenanters were appalled by the execution of Charles I in 1649 and proclaimed Charles's 18-year-old son King. Charles II went to Edinburgh. Cromwell invaded Scotland, 107 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

the Scottish armies were defeated and Charles fled into exile. Scotland was put under complete English control.

And so began one of the bloodiest bloodiest periods of Scottish history, better known as “the Killing Killing Times”. These were the most horrific and atrocious times ever inflicted on the people of Scotland. The Covenanters were now flushed out and hunted down as never before and the common soldier was empowered to take life at will of any suspect without trial of law. Usually it was done without any evidence and often as the result of the suspicions of an over-zealous town official or Minister.

The Restoration in 1660 meant no great return to favour for the Covenanters. Anglicanism was restored and Charles broke all his promises to the Scots. Rebellion began in Dumfries and spread through Ayrshire and Lanarkshire. After the Pentland Rising of 1666 was put down there followed years of persecution of the Covenanters, with dragoons billeted in the troublesome western areas? The hatred came to a climax in 1679 when government troops under Lord Claverhouse were defeated at Drumclog. Claverhouse withdrew to Glasgow. By now there was virtual civil war. At Bothwell Bridge a large army of Covenanters was defeated.

A picture of the Battle of Bothwell 108 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

When James II, a Roman Catholic, Catholic, succeeded Charles II in 1685, Covenanting was declared to be treason and punishable by death. Persecution increased when some have said as many as 18,000 died. The persecution ended with the accession to the throne of William III, and since 1790 the Church of Scotland has been the official church. To bring the McIlwraith perspective into things – – the following are the known covenanters within the family tree. All inserts that follow are extracted from “The History of the state and the suffering of the Church of Scotland”. Mathew McIlwraith, who has already been discussed in the “early origins chapter”; his epitaph and story are probably the most well known of all McIlwraith covenanters. Daniel Meiklewrick (Micklewrock), who was shot by Lt Gen near the water of Duisk in Colmonell in 1685. The pictures below show the memorial to covenanters Daniel McIlwrick and John Murchie.

In 1685, two friends, Daniel McIlwrick and John Murchie, were on a hill by Cross Water near Barrhill. At the same time, Lieutenant-General William Drummond was being taken by a local laird to a so-called so- called Covenanters’ hideout. The two friends saw the soldiers approaching approaching them and fled. Drummond's dragoons pursued them across the moor on horseback and soon overtook them. When searched, they were found to have Bibles on their persons - that, coupled with their flight, was enough for their immediate execution. The two men were allowed to kneel and pray before the soldiers opened fire. The bodies were left where they lay and later, it is said, two women crept out and buried them. Legend tells us that one of the women was McIlwrick's fiancé - m irroring the story told of Matthew McIlwraith, buried at Colmonell. The soldiers are said to have taken the confiscated Bibles and burned them.


Daniel was most probably the son of Thomas McIlvricke, who in 1659 was in Alterkynnoch. Daniels brother John Mcilwrick was in Auchensoul. The reason for the author ’ author ’s thinking on this is that a Gilbert Mcilwrick who married an Enable McClure, married in Laigh Altergannoch and and in 1787 erected the the stone to Daniel Daniel Mcilwrick. Mcilwrick. Hugh, Henry and John are possibly the next most written about as all were captured for their participation participation in the battle of Bothwell. The Battle Battle of Bothwell Bridge, or Bothwell Brig, took place on 22 June 1679. The brothers were three three of the children children of Andrew, the first to hold hold lands at Auchenflower, Auchenflower, Ballantrae. Hugh’s life and fortune (this would have included Auchenflower after his father’s passing in 1674) were declared forfeit on 8 th October 1681. The Trial date was 7 th April 1681, and date of execution was to be 12 th April 1681 at the Grassmarket, Edinburgh. Therefore, this would suggest that the three brothers were possibly on the run for over two years before eventually being captured. The prisoners after Bothwell were brought to Edinburgh and roped together in pairs. The tolbooth was not large enough for such a multitude and so many were held in a walled area of Greyfriars churchyard. On 26 th June 1679 the council proclaimed that torture was to be used in order to gain any information; 65 leaders were then noted as guilty of treason.

The following is a transcribed copy of the petition for Hew. This can be put into context when reading Page 394 of the Register of the Council, Edinburgh 20 th April 1682 when it is noted “Mcilvrath sometime in Auchinflour, prisoners in the tollbooth of Edinburgh and under sentence of death for treason, they repreieve and continue execution execution until 19 th May next”. The authors can assume that as it mentions prisoners – prisoners – it it means all three brothers. Petition of Hew Mcilwraith To His Royall highnes his Ma[jes]ties high Co[m]missioner for this Kingdome, and the Lords of his Majesties Privie Councill, The Petition of Hugh Mcilwraith Humblie Sheweth That the Petitioner when he was a Young boy, being so unfortunat as to be seduced by field preachers to haunt and frequent their seditious conventicles, conventicles, He became so debauched with their rebellious principles (being made believe by them that ther was noe salvation but by following following their doctrines), 110 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

That when he was but eighteen yeares of age He was perswaded by them to ingadge [engage] in the Laite horrid rebellion against his Ma[jes]tie at Bothwell-bridge, But after the defeate of the rebell[es], and his Majesties gracious Act of indemnitie, the Petitioner was so conscious to him self, and covinced that all his former courses wer highly seditious and rebellious, that he most willinglie subscribed the Bond and Layed hold upon His Majesties gracious pardon. Notwithstanding whereof, the Petitioner was therafter forsaulted [convicted] in absence by the Lord[es] of the Justiciarie, upon a misrepresentation made to them that the Petitioner was ane heretour [landed proprietor], and he being Laitlie sent in Prisoner by Claver hous [John Graham of Claverhouse, 1st Viscount Dundee], he was unexpectedly brought in in to the Justice Court upon the seventh of Apryll last, And got his sentence to die upon Wednesday the twelth of the s[ai]d Moneth, Which did soe surprize and confound him that he did not represent his caice to the Court, But haveing therafter made his application to Yo[u]r Lo[rdships] of the Secret Councill, and given in a subscribed Petition, representing his Caice and declaring his sincere repentance, he was reprived untill the Nynteneenth day of May. And seeing the s[ai]d Day doth approach, the Petitioner doth now humblie represent to your Royall highnes and Lo[rdships] That from his soul he abhores and detest[es] all these rebellious actings, wherof he hath been formerly guiltie, and all these seditious principles and false religion which have prompted him In his Youth to be disloyall to his Ma[jes]tie, and that for the future he shall endeavour to the outmost of his Power to demean himselfe as a Loyall subject, And the Petitioner doth humblie crave the benefite of his Ma[jes]ties gracious Pardone and indemnitie, which doth expressly comprehend all persons who are not heretours, and the Petitioner is not anie heretour, being never infeft [enfeoffed] as heire to his father in that Parcell of Land belonging to him, and Payes only one hundreth merkes Scots yeirlie, and is life rented [given an annuity] by the petitioner’s mother, So that he being onlie ane appearand heir [heir apparent] and never infeft, and consequentlie noe heretoure, And having subscribed the Bond, He hath undoubtedlie the benefite of his Ma[jes]tie’s indemnitie, It being expressly so found and decyded by the Lords of Justiciarie upon the Eighteenth of March 1681 In the Caice of John Williamsone and many other rebell[es] who were appearand airs [heirs] but never infeft, And it was only found that they wer obligidged obligidged to renounce the benefite benefite of all lands and heretages befalling to them as appearand air[es] befor his Ma[jes]ties Act of indemnitie, as appeares by the Lo[rdes] of Justiciarie their interloquitors [interlocutions] recorded in the book[es] of Journall, And if this defence had been proponed [put forward] for the Petitioner when he gott his sentence, the Lords of Justiciarie could not in Justice have pronounced sentence ag[ain]st him, but would have given him the benefite of his Majesties gracious Act of indemnitie. indemnitie. Petition of Hew Mcilwraith May it therfor Please Yo[u]r Royall highnes, highnes, and Yo[u]r Lo[rdships] of the secret Councill, 111 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

To Co[m]miserat and have Compassion upon the Petitioner, and to Consider the fors[ai]d unans[we]rable defence founded upon the Act of indemnitie and the Petitioners sincere repentance, and detestation and abhorrence of all his former rebellious principles and actings, and of these seditious Conventicles wher he learned thes abominable and wicked principles, principles, And therfor to reco[m]mend to the Lo[rds] of the Justiciarie Justiciarie to admitt the fors[ai]d defence founded upon the Act of indemnitie, and to recall their se ntence, upon the Petitioner’s renunceing any right he hath as appearand air to any Lands belonging to his father, and in the mean tyme to grant a long reprive to the Petitioner, which he humblie prayes for, from the innate goodness, Mercie and clemencie Yo[u]r Royall highnes hath frequentlie showine in reclameing Poor deluded persons from their Pernicious and Disloyall principles, And the Petitioner Petitioner shall ever Pray Pray etc. Hew Mciluraith James Denham witnes Cha. Campbell witnes Hugh Mcilwraith had been captured at Bothwell-Bridge by Government forces led by John Graham of Claverhouse, the Duke of Monmouth and the Earl of Linlithgow and was sentenced to death. Hugh petitioned the King in an attempt to try to reduce his death sentence and succeeded. His sentence was reduced to being banished to Ireland. The influence of the kennedy family was not that far removed from the reduction in sentence. Indeed, Jean Kennedy was heiress of Dinmurchie and may have been called Lady Dinmurchie and possibly played a part in Hughs sentence reduction through her wider Kennedy connections. connections. Eventually Hugh Mcilwraith was sent to Ireland, but he returned back to his home in Ayrshire in circa 1689. Henry the authors can assume was to suffer the same fate, as was his brother John. However again it appears that their relationship with the Kennedy’s paid dividends and in 1685 all three were exiled to Ireland. However this suggests that they spent up to 4 years in the Edinburgh Tolbooth? As you will read in the Ireland chapter the exact length of time in Ireland is debated, and by 1688 lands had been restored. It is highly likely that Margaret (who married Archibald Shaw) was also involved, possibly in assisting her brothers, as she is named in 1687 as a covenanter. covenanter. (Privy Council P 197) By October 1681, P489 of the Privy Council documents Hugh McIlwraith of Auchenflower has “judicially sworn and signed the test”.


The next McIlwraith who is mentioned in the above documents is Gilbert McIlwraith of Dinmurchie. He was named as a Rebel Heritor 1682 and eventually had his lands returned by 1690. It is highly likely that the loss of his lands was the true reason for the debts which Gilbert built up. It can only be imagined that as land was being fortified, many others would have been sitting in the wings attempting to profit from others’ misfortune; if Gilbert was in debt then it is highly likely that these debts would have been used as leverage. Obviously the toll of the c ovenanting ovenanting years, and possibly the concern over his debts, meant that Gilbert died by 1693.

John in South Balloch was named as a covenanter in 1684, however, unlike many of his cousins, he appears to have taken the bond of loyalty to the crown aged 30 in 1685. “ John John McIlwraith in Balloch, who wes at the Rebellion and has taken the Bond, being solemnlie solemnlie sworne, purged and intergogat ”. ”. 1684 Page 515 of the Privy Council. It does look in further review of the Privy council that under “interrogation” he names James McJarrowe of Shang as a rebel, resulting resulting in his h is capture. 113 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

It is highly likely that John had been captured at Bothwell and and was one of the 1000 prisoners held after Bothwell at Greyfriars. For ov er four months these men were held here without any shelter; each man being allowed 4 ounces of bread a day. He possibly had one of three choices: to take the bond, be executed along with his cousins, or alternatively be shipped to the American colonies. colonies. Next who is named is; “Hew McElvraith in Pinblaith, of at the age of 60 yeirs or therby, married, and upon oath depones idem, quhich is the treuth, as he shall answer to god” signed Hew McIlaiwrath. McIlaiwrath. 1684 P 535 of Privy Council. A William McIlwraith McIlwraith is named in 1686, P210 of the Register of the Council. Council. “be liberate upon termses forsaid”. Theer is uncertainty who this William is as he appears to be too old to be William of Balcletchie. However, given that as you read the Privy council minutes there are continuous continuous mentions of farms and locations around Barr, it is highly likely that he was a son of the McIlwraith families in and around Barr. John McIlwraith in Dinvin is also listed as a Covenanter alongside Gilbert McIlwraith of Dalwharroch – Dalwharroch – which which possibly is Daljarock. Andrew in Barbae is another – another – Reference Reference GD109/2582 in the National Archives of Scotland notes “Disposition by J ames ames Edmounstoune Edmounstoune of Brioch to David Fergusson in Barbae, of moveable goods and gear belonging to Andew McIlwraith in Barbare as a fugitive fugitive after the th battle of Bothwell Bridge”. 9 June 1680. It is possible that Andrew in Barbae is a son of James McIlwraith of Auchenflower, as mentioned in: Disposition and Warrant, Edmonstone to Fergusone re NRS GD109/2582

Andro McIlwraith’s

goods, 1680

Be it known to all men by these present letters that I, James Edmonstone of Broith, Forsomuch as the Lords of his Majesty’s Treasury, by their commission dat ed dat ed and recorded duly in their books upon 14 March last past, Have given and granted to Mr. Wm. Fergusone, and others in his name, for whom he is to be answerable, Warrant and commission to seize upon, secure and sequestrate all money, farms, profits, rents, duties of lands, debts, sums of money and other moveable goods and gear whatsoever, in whose hands or wherever the same can be apprehended, Pertaining or belonging to any heritor or landed person within the shires of Landrick and Ayr, Stewartries, Royalties and Baillieries therein, and that were in the late rebellion in the west or did join with the rebels before or at the time they were defeated at Bothwell Bridge in the month of June last, And also to seize upon, sequestrate and secure the whole moveable goods and gear of all the persons in the bond above specified as are not heritors and who are declared fugitive for being in the late rebellion, Which commission is to endure during the said Lords’ pleasure, containing several other clauses and conditions, as the same, duly recorded as said is, in itself more fully bears. And because the said Mr. William Fergusone could not conveniently attend the trust and commission in both shires, he did make, grant and subscribe and deliver to me, the said James Edmonstone, a deputation bearing a full power for him and in his name to seize upon, sequestrate and secure the whole moveable goods and gear belonging to the persons above mentioned, conform to the principal commission in all points, Which deputation is dated at Glasgow 20 March 1680, passed and mregistered in the Sheriff Court Books of Ayr upon 30 April 1680. And now, seeing that David Fergusone in Barlae has made good and 114 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

lawful payment to me of the sum of £40 Scots money, and that in satisfaction of the whole moveable goods and gear belonging belonging to the said Andrew Mcilwraith in Barbae, a rebel, I have disponed, like as by these presents dispones, (with (with the burden of the stipend payable forth of the said lands to the orthodox minister in the parish), to and in favour of the said Burnett for the son[?] & Andro Mcilwraith in Barbae, the whole movable goods and gear belonging to the said rebel, With full power to him to intromet therewith and dispone thereupon at his pleasure, and to do, use and exercise everything needful for recovery of the said goods and gear, And I, by these presents, bind and oblige me not only to warrant these presents from my own proper fact and deed, but also that the present commission, whereupon these presents follow, granted by the Lords of his Majesty’s Treasury to the said Mr. Wm. Fergusone, shall be forthcoming to the said s aid David Ferguson upon his own proper charges and expenses, And for the more security I am content and consent that these presents be inserted and registered in the books of council and sessions or any other court books ordinary within this kingdom, therein to remain for conservation,And to that effect constitutes David Ferguson [blank] my proctorIn witness whereof these presents, written by William McKinlay, notary public, I have subscribed subscribed the same same with my hand hand at Harthill, Harthill, 9 June 1680, Before these witnesses, George Edmonstone and the said William McKinlay. W McKinlay witness J. Edmonstoune G. Edmonstoune witness

What can be certain during this period is that the McIlwraith family was torn apart for years as a result of their beliefs. They lost everything they owned, were tortured, exiled and had loved ones murdered. In the end, by 1690 the lands had been returned; however the impact of this period on any family must have lasted generations. Whig Families and their role with covenanting. The importance of understanding Whigs in relation to the McIlwraith family is to appreciate that both in Ayr and at Auchenflower both families were of Whig extraction. To understand what this means and how it fits in with the wider family philosophy and the wider convictions they lived by the author has extracted some information on the W higs and their background. In the late 17 th century, the term Whig was used to describe those opposed to the religious policies of Charles II. Later, the Whigs supported the establishment of the Hanoverian settlement. By the 19th century, their rivals in Parliament, the Tories, were the supporters of the established church and the traditional political structure. The Whigs, in contrast to the Tories, favoured reform. The aristocratic connotations surrounding the name caused some politicians to refer to themselves as Liberals, a term used by reforming politicians in Europe. However, the term Liberal was not used officially until 1868 when William Gladstone became Prime Minister.


The term Whig was initially a term of political abuse used by the Tories. It was meant to discredit those who held different beliefs to the Tories and roughly translated it meant ‘Scottish Presbyterian rebels’. First used in the reign of Charles II, by the time of of the Exclusion Crisis (1679 to 1681) it had become an accepted political label. The first Whig ‘leader’ was Shaftsbury and his opponent in the Tories was Danby.


The first Whigs were a difficult group to summarise in terms of their wholesale beliefs. However, such a disparate group all shared one value at this time – that – that the future James II should be excluded from the throne as a result of his Catholicism. The first Whigs were curious political bedfellows. They included former Roundheads who were opposed to the Royal Court on ideological ideological grounds; former Cavaliers who had become disillusioned disillusioned with Charles II; Presbyterians who disliked the Restoration Restoration religious settlement; backbench gentry who opposed the Royal Court for its licentious behaviour and extravagance and career politicians who saw the Whigs as their best passport to political advancement. Such an interesting group proved difficult to manage but the fact that they covered so many different parts of society was also a strength. What were the ideological beliefs of the W higs? They believed that the consent of the people was the source of political political power and authority, and that those Monarchs were in power only as a result of a contract with the community. If the community believed that the reigning monarch had failed them, they had the right to resist him/her. Their other main belief was that Dissenters D issenters should be tolerated. In the reign of James II this was clearly an issue when it became clear that the king wanted nothing more or less than a Catholic society – history – history would have informed the Whigs that a fervent Catholic was highly unlikely to tolerate Dissenters. The Whigs played a fundamental role in the 1688 Revolution that removed James from the throne and placed on it the more tolerant William and Mary. In the reign of William and Mary, the Whigs split in two. Two separate groups were formed: the Court Whigs and the Country Whigs. Their titles give away their allegiance and it was to the Country Whigs that the more radical elements of the party drifted. The Country Whigs aligned with the Country Tories Tories to form the New Country Party led by Robert Harley. The Court Whigs took office under W illiam III and between 1694 and 1698 they developed a series of traits that stayed with them for over a century. The Whigs were seen to be the party of privilege where money counted. They were the richer gentry, noblemen who had made fortunes out of the financial revolution. They were keen supporters of patronage as a means of ensuring that ‘their men’ were in high places both centrally and in the localities. Even at the end of Queen Anne’s reign they maintained their link to the monarchy by effectively organising the accession of George I in 1714. Their association with the crown became, for them, an accepted right and it was during the reign of George I that they managed to discredit the Tories with Jacobitism – a – a charge that kept the Tories out of political power for most of the C18th. For many people in power, the Whigs were considered to be the established party of order


IRELAND The first documented mention mention of McIlwraith’s in Ireland Ireland is in 1631. The muster rolls are the lists of all men in an area aged between 16 and 60 capable of baring arms. These individuals individuals are; Andrew within within Lord of Montgomery Montgomery of Ardes Muster Roll 1631. John within Lord Clandeboyes of Great Ardes Muster Roll 1631 – born – born circa 1600 Gilbert within Hollywood, Muster Roll 1631 - born circa 1600 There are a number of reasons why the McIlwraith’s end up in Ireland and this as with many things when studying the McIlwraith family tree has ended up with a debate; Idea 1 – 1 – it it has been shown throughout the book that the McIlwraiths were not far removed from the Kennedys and thus a possible reason is that the McIlwraiths followed David Kennedy, late of Bangor in County Down and brother-german to John Kennedy of Craig (Colmonell), (Colmonell), to Ireland Ire land on a campaign, and at that point settled in Ireland. Idea 2 - By 1630 there were over 5,000 adult male Scots in Ireland from over 2,000 families. Uprisings against the crown occurred in 1639 and 1641; however by the 1650s the resistance in Ulster had ended. Estates were back in the hands of the supporters of the crown, with a number of estates having been handed over to lowland Scots landowners, who in turn leased these to Scots settlers. Given the McIlwraiths’ connections with the landowners of Ayrshire, and also their family tradition of branching out, it is highly possible that they took up this opportunity. This chapter only looks at those who are known to be the first McIlwraiths in Ireland, stopping only 3 or 4 generations in. An excellent book “the house of the mac -gille-riabhaich" provides a much more detailed account of the family history in Ireland and it is to this that I direct anyone wishing to further their research. What the author do know is that the naming convention of many of the descendants do suggest a very strong link to the family in Ayrshire and therefore it is assumed that this is where they have come from; to date there is no direct evidence as to who started the Ireland line. Idea 3 - The Family Folklore Within Ireland the “family folklore” states that three brothers came from Ayrshire and started the family line in Ireland. These three brothers are supposed to be the three Auchenflower brothers of Henry, Hugh and John. This has some basis in that, as shown within the previous chapter, there is documented evidence that they were exiled to Ireland. Under folklore, Hugh is listed as being married in Ireland and it is from this marriage that the first descendants who were born in Ireland are thought to originate. However, this does not fully add up when looked at within the wider research. The theory that the three Auchenflower brothers started the initial family tree is slightly diluted when you realise that, per the Muster Roles, there were McIlwraiths in Ireland prior to the three brothers coming across. 118 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

What is likely is that exile to Ireland would have been easier if you already had close “kin” in Ireland willing to assist you in your plight. Therefore, it is a more considered view that the three brothers went to relations in Ireland, rather than being the first to set up the line. Idea 4 - The Early references It is highly h ighly possible possible that the three individuals were the first McIlwraith settlers settlers in Ireland. I reland. It is a possible theory that the three named within the muster roles are the sons of Gilbert McIlwraith, alive 1584 in Pinnanet, married to Margaret MacFadzeane and died in May 1631. We know little about his family and a possible reason for that could be that they were in Ireland and settled there; however this is only a possibility. It can be assumed that two of the individuals from the muster roles are Gilbert, who can be found on the Hearth Tax in 1669 in Belfast Barony, and John, found on Hearth Tax in 1669 in Antrim. A George is also also found at Dunluce Dunluce in Ballymoney Ballymoney on the Hearth Hearth Tax in 1669. Alongside those mentioned in the muster roles and on the hearth hearth tax, you can start to build build a possible possible family tree; According the "the house house of the mac-gille-riabhaich", mac-gille-riabhaich", and a theory which which the authors back, is that John was most likely founder of the branch living in Ballynantag and Gilbert the founder of those in Down. During the 1680s within Ayrshire there was seven years of poor summers, cold winters, animal deaths and increased grain prices. This was a period when many in the South West of Scotland were taking up offers to settle in Ulster to farm land forfeited by the supporters of King James. There was Thomas McIlwrath (McLeroth) of Ballyrainey in County Down, who could easily have been the son of Gilbert. He is recorded in the Dundonald graveyard, where his age is given as 62 in 1713. He did leave a will, however this was lost; what is known is that he did leave property and a farm of some substance. John McIlwrath is noted as dying on 27 th Aug 1719 aged 66. John was born around 1653, possibly making him a brother or at least a relation of Thomas. Rosey McIlrath is known to have died in 1700 aged 24 years, daughter to James McIlrath of Ballyclose. The first birth that is Hugh McIlrath of Ballyclose, born 1698 county Antrim, died 1772 County Antrim and married married Rose Gillespie. Gillespie. Then, Thomas, James, John and Rosey, all assumingly sons or daughters of the first three. Then you start to see who is assumed is James, who is listed as brother to Hugh of Ballyclose. James, who never married, is assumed to be the eldest son and is noted as living in the old mansion place in Ballyclose. Therefore, this James is unlikely to be the same James who is “old James” in Ballyclose. Given Hugh’s birthplace in Antrim, it is possible that Hugh was the grandson of John, who is found there in the 1669 Hearth tax records. Hugh of Ballyclose married twice; 119 ©Colin McNally 2015 - A history of the McIlwraith family of Carrick, Ayrshire.

The McIlwraiths of Ayrshire Version UPDATE

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