Nigg ploughing match

On Saturday the 23d October, the Annual Ploughing Match, in the parish of Nigg, took place on a field at Loirston - when 16 Ploughs appeared on the ground, all of which started by eleven o'clock, and completed their several tasks by half-past two; when the three Judges came on the ground, and after a most minute and tedious examination of the work performed, adjudged the Premiums, as follows:-

1st Premium, to Alexander Gordon, servant to Mr Duthie at Loirston,

2d Premium, to James Falconer, servant to Mr Morrice at Tullos.

3d Premium, to David Lyon, son of Widow Lyon, Altens.

4th Premium, to Alexander Glenny, servant to Mr Davidson, at Balnagask.

5th Premium, to James Cooper, servant to Mr Edward, South Kirkhill.

A Prize given to Ploughmen who had formerly gained first prizes, was awarded to George Shirreffs, servant to Mr Davidson, Balnagask.

Although it was the first time the field had been broke up since it was in a state of nature, the whole work was uncommonly well executed, and the Judges regretted there were not more Premiums to be distributed amongst so deserving competitors.

The Gentlemen present dined together, and spent the evening with much social pleasure.  And on the Tuesday following, the Ploughmen gave their sweethearts and friends a ball and supper, which they kept up with mirth and glee, until an early hour next morning.

Published in the Aberdeen Journal, Wednesday 3rd November 1819.