Details of the monument you have selected are shown below. Click on the image(s) of the monument (at the bottom of the page) to view a larger version (opens in new window). Please allow a few moments for the larger version to load; although every effort has been made to ensure the large images download quickly, internet speeds may vary depending on connection speeds. Click here to go back to your search results.

Stone Condition: Damaged Material: Sandstone Length: 2.7 Breadth: 2.3 Inscription Condition: Clear but worn Inscription Technique: Applique Mason: Not known Pre 1855 no. N/A ( What's this? )

Monument Inscription

CRAIG of FLOAK

Family History

This most unusual monument is undoubtedly a modern addition to what would have been a traditional family grave plot of the mid to late 19th century. The monument now consists of granite edging around the double grave space enclosing an area covered with whin chips and centered by a short cement column. The top of the column, some three feet high, has been broken off but recovered elsewhere in the graveyard, and consists of a sundial contained within a hollowed-out globe.

The farm at Floak occupied by the family Craig was one of three farms at this locality. The Craigs occupied the farm known as North Floak which was 100 acres in extent.

The area known as Floak is to be found at the south westernmost extremity of the parish of Mearns where it borders on North Ayrshire. The land is predominantly moorland some of which, with drainage and good management, has been able to raise forage crops. For the most part the farming activities would centre on the raising of cattle and sheep. Owing to the cluster of farms and its proximity to the main road to Kilmarnock a small settlement or ‘fermtoun’ was established in the vicinity.

Despite the reference on the grave to the family being associated with Floak, that connection in farming terms was not a lengthy one. John Craig, originally from Stewarton, brought his wife Margaret Dalrymple to Floak around the 1840’s, and remained there for about twenty years only. The couple raised a family of six children, Annie, John, Elizabeth, Janet, Margaret and William.

It does not appear that the family continued farming within the parish after leaving Floak, but may have been attracted to the industrial opportunities then developing in other parts of the parish and further afield.