Old Stranraer and Cairnryan

Catalysed by the introduction of a regular steamer service to Ireland from the 1860s, Stranraer flourished, with numerous hotels lining George Street along with an impressive array of shops. In Donnie Nelson's book the town is seen during its Victorian and Edwardian heyday, with a variety of vessels from the Princess line plying the waters of Loch Ryan at a time when Stranraer had a well-used railway service that connected with the steamers. Photos of Agnew Crescent illustrate this attractive stretch of promenade before the Clayhole Bay area was filled in to provide parking. Other views show a calamitous fire at Greenvale Steam Laundry and an impressive fish sale at the Breastwork. Cairnryan's story - from sleepy village to industrial-scale port - is illustrated in a series of views charting the development of this nearby community. Mansions such as Lochinch Castle and Lochryan House contrast with the more modest cottages of Castle Kennedy, a planned estate village, while two fascinating photos from the pioneering years of aviation show flimsy looking aircraft of the Royal Flying Corps at Cults Farm.

Author: Donnie Nelson
Publisher: Stenlake
Extra Details: Pictorial Card Covers lavishly illustrated with Old B&W photos throughout.