We had lunch in Coulaghailtro, on Port Ban, at a cafe down this little lane traversing the pastureland to the bay. Across the Sound of Jurra the islands of Jurra and Arran can be seen in the distance. Potato farming and herring fishing were the primary uses of the land and sea. Today, in addition to these, land owners raise sheep and cattle. I learned from the archivist, after we returned home, that my family had also lived and worked in the township of Coulaghailtro just up the hill behind where I painted this scene! Goosebumps!
We turned around to head back towards Tarbert to look for Kilberry Church (built in 1821) which we located about 10 minutes south of the village on a hillside above the road above another burn. This is the parish where my ancestors were married and children were baptised! I climbed up the steps hoping to find the church unlocked. Alas, the thick, heavy, large key holed door was not open, but leaning next to it was a blackberry wood walking stick just like the one I inherited from my Uncle Marvin! I might not have been able to see inside the place of worship where my ancestors were married and baptized, but I did feel a deep reverence and connection to this church!