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For a
start, the couple in the picture are playing golf over what was then the
town's nine hole course. The other feature which sticks out are the three
factory chimneys or lums which are to be seen in the background,
Today, there is no golf course in Stewarton, though plans are afoot which
could provide one, and only one of the chimneys remains, much reduced in
size.
From left to right, these chimneys were part of Robert Mackie and Company
(Bonnetmakers), A. Cunningham and Company (Hosiery Manufacturers) and
Thomas Mackie and Sons (Spinners and Dyers). Only the latter still exists.
Known locally as Mackie's lum, it was said to be a landmark for wartime
pilots on their way to and from Prestwick or Abbotsinch Airports.
The couple on the putting green on what used to be the second hole on the
course are Alee and Anna McMillan, both keen "Gowfers" in those days —
Alee still played the game until recently.
Cunningham's factory ceased to exist many years ago, and R. Mackie & Co.
moved into the building after their own premised were destroyed by fire in
the early 1960's. A few years ago R. Mackie teamed up once again with
Thomas Mackie & Sons whose mill is not far away at Bridgend Works.
My thanks to Alee McMillan for the use of the photograph. |
