Stumpy Tower
Often known as Auld Stumpy, and of great historic interest, Stumpy Tower was built in the first half of the 19th Century. Occupying a key position in Girvan town centre, it was built as the town's jail. Auld Stumpy served this purpose until the 1870's when a new jail and police station were built.
The cells of the jail were on the 1st, 2nd & 3rd floors of the building with a clock tower above these cells. Originally this building and others including the Town Hall were used to form a square, which formed the Market Place. Sadly, the surrounding buildings were demolished in 1908.
It is interesting to note that Auld Stumpy replaced a former jail sited on the southwest corner of the market place. This former jail, which was built in 1789, had a thatched roof through which the prisoners frequently made escape. It is recorded that the 'new' jail had a positive effect on the number of escapees and the resulting law and order within the town.
It has been suggested that the name auld Stumpy derives form the Gaelic Olladh Stiom Paidh, meaning the 'Great Circle of Justice'.
Exhibits in the Tower include a 16th century wrought iron cannon and police memorabilia.
Operated by South Ayrshire Council.
Contact
South Ayrshire Council
Dalrymple Street
Girvan
KA26 9AE
Scotland
Tel: +44 (1292) 61200
Fax: +44 (1292) 612143
E-Mail: cst@south-ayrshire.gov.uk
WWW: http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/parks/parksandpublic/historicplaces.htm
