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Birthplace of the famous
‘Paisley Pattern’ (which was originally introduced
from Kashmir), this Glaswegian outpost on the
White Cart River became a major manufacturer of
cotton and woollen garments in the 19th century.
The history of its textiles is told in the local
museum, which has a stunning collection of Paisley
shawls, while Sma’ Shot Cottages include an 18th
century weaver’s house.
The town grew up around a Cluniac abbey founded in
1163 by Walter Fitzallan, ancestor of the Stuarts.
It was burned down by the English during the
bloody Wars of Independence and a second abbey had
to be constructed. It contains royal tombs,
interesting stained glass windows and the 10th
century Barochan Cross.
Paisley’s most important son was the Reverend John
Witherspoon. He sailed to America to become one of
the signatories to the Declaration of
Independence.
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