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Ailsa Craig
Ailsa Craig is an island rock
at the mouth of the Firth of Clyde. The rock is a favorite
material for curling-stones, about three-fourths (according
to estimate) of those in use in the countries where the game
obtains being made of it. On this account curling-stones are
popularly known as " Ailsas" or " Ailsa Craigs."
A cave exists towards the northern side of the island, and
on the eastern are the remains of a tower, with several vaulted
rooms. The lighthouse on the southern side shows a flashing
light visible for 13 miles. In 1831 the twelfth earl of Cassillis
became first marquis of Ailsa, taking the title from the Craig,
which was his property. When John Keats was in Girvan during
his Scottish tour in 1818 he apostrophized the rock in a fine
sonnet.
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