Snippet from Dumfriesshire newspaper 1865 (relates to RUTHWELL area)

"... wrought with the prize plough he obtained last year, manufactured by Mr McCORMICK, Dumfries. The plough was presented by William DICKSON, Esq., London, who takes a deep interest in everything connected with the parish. The prize list is as follows:-
1. Archibald GRIERSON, servant with Mr HILL, Bowerhouses;
2. William BOYD, servant with Mr COULTHARD, Greenfield;
3. Mr John FROOD, son of Mr FROOD, Kirkstile;
4. Mr Robert GRIERSON, son of Mrs GRIERSON, Priestside;
5. William CARRICK, servant with Mr FROOD, Kirkstile;
6. Thomas LITTLE, servant with Mr HYSLOP of Nether Locharwoods.

Prizes, presented to the association by Mr UNDERWOOD, Lockerbie, for the two best hintings, were awarded, the 1st to Archibald GRIERSON, Bowerhouses, and the 2nd to Mr HENDERSON, Clarencefield. The Minister's prize, to the best ploughman under twenty years of age, was awarded to Robert GRIERSON, Priestside; and that to the servant who had been for the longest period of time under the same master or mistress, was given to William DUNBAR, servant with Miss ROBSON, Powhillon.

In the evening, the members of the association, their friends, and the judges, dined together in the Castle Inn, Clarencefield. William HARTLEY, Esq., chamberlain to the Earl of Mansfield, president of the association, occupied the chair, and contributed much, by his geniality and urbanity, in promoting the festivities of the evening. Mr FROOD acted as croupier. Toast, song, and sentiment circled in rapid succession; and a more happy and orderly company has seldom met within the walls of the Castle Inn, and all appeared unwilling to part when the chairman announced his last toast. The dinner was sumptuous, reflecting much credit on the host and hostess ..."