I am a local historian focused on Carrick, the southernmost region of Ayrshire, Scotland. My research interests are in tower-houses, with a particular emphasis on the Kennedy clan residence of Baltersan (built 1584), which I owned for 30 years. In addition I have transcribed hundreds of original documents of life in Carrick from the 16th to the late-18th centuries. From that I’m now writing the definitive book on the history and architecture of Baltersan and gathering tales on numerous other aspects of the region’s history and its colourful characters. These will be published as short notes and available for purchase on this website in the near future.

I am available as a public speaker on my research and experiences in trying to save a ruined historic building which included a stint on BBC TV’s Dragons’ Den (S1, E3). A documentary film on my efforts to save Baltersan, by a Nepali photo journalist, Monika Deupala, opened The Archaeology Channel’s Film Festival in Eugene, Oregon in May, 2025. It is titled simply, Brown and Baltersan.

To support my endeavours I will be selling merchandise (not T-shirts and coffee mugs) relevant to my niche market. New items, including maps and antique prints, alongside the aforementioned future publications will be added through time so call back here regularly for updates.