Lochgoin Monument
Museum | Kilmarnock | Scotland | United Kingdom
The Lochgoin Monument is located near Lochgoin Farm, approximately 3 kilometers northwest of Kilmarnock in East Ayrshire, Scotland. It was erected in 1896 in honor of John Howie, a Scottish historian and author of the work "The Scots Worthies". Howie, born in 1735 and died in 1793, dedicated himself to documenting the lives and deeds of Scottish reformers and martyrs.
History and Significance:
John Howie grew up in the region and spent much of his life in the Lochgoin area. His work "The Scots Worthies" is a significant collection of biographies of Scottish reformers and martyrs who lived during the religious conflicts of the 16th and 17th centuries. The Lochgoin Monument serves as a memorial to Howie's contribution to Scottish history and as a reminder of the religious disputes of that time.
Architecture:
The monument is a tall stone obelisk resting on a pedestal. On the front, there is an inscription commemorating John Howie and indicating the year of its construction. The design of the monument reflects the style of the late 19th century and blends harmoniously with the rural surroundings.
Special Features:
The Lochgoin Monument is located near Lochgoin Farm, a historic farmhouse built in 1858 on the foundations of a previous house. The lintel of the farmhouse bears several years, including 1178, 1710, and 1810, indicating different construction phases. The building is an example of the rural architecture of the region and houses relics from the time of the Covenanters, a religious movement in the 17th century.
The Lochgoin Monument and the surrounding farm are significant historical sites that provide insight into the religious and cultural history of Scotland. They commemorate the challenges and resistance of the Covenanters as well as the life and work of John Howie.
