AYR, Newton of. While the borough of Ayr extends along the south side of the river Ayr, this small parish is situated on the north side of the same river. It is a burgh of considerable domain, having in that domain baronial jurisdiction; governed by a magistracy elected by freemen, but not having parliamentary representation. It is of very ancient erection, owing its privileges to Robert Bruce, who upon being attacked with leprosy, came to reside in this place, and was induced to establish a lazar-house, and to confer considerable favours on the town, and on the small village of Priestwick, about two or three miles distant. In the Newton of Ayr are a number of very good houses. It has a tolerable good harbour, chiefly employed in the coal trade. Lying on the banks of Ayr, and the sea coast, the soil is mostly flat and sandy. Its extent is about three miles long, and one and a half broad. In 1811, the population was 2809.