Originally published in 1908, this very readable account of the history of one of Scotland's most important counties is a story of ups and downs, of fightings for freedom and faith, of local and feudal jarrings and turmoils, of steady persevering through it all on the pathway of progress. The first volume is given to the history of the politics and social development of the shire. Less detailed than Paterson's History, this second volume is an excellent introduction to the complex family relationships of Kyle, Cunninghame and Carrick. It is also available in a hardback which combines volumes 1 and 2.