Kilmarnock celebrates Robert Burns first book of poems

The Scottish town of Kilmarnock (Scottish Gaelic: Cill Mheàrnaig) is marking their part in the history and fame of Scotland's national poet Robert Burns (25 January 1759 – 21 July 1796). It was a Kilmarnock publisher, 240 years ago, that decided to print his first book "Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect". The Kilmarnock Edition features 44 of Robbie Burns best known poems including To a Mouse, Address to the Devil and Halloween. It was printed and issued by John Wilson of Kilmarnock on 31 July 1786. First editions of the book are very rare. Only 612 copies were originally published. .

Burns Club members mark the anniversary of the Kilmarnock Edition every year by laying wreaths at John Wilson's grave. This year a one week festival is underway "Robert Burns 1st Edition Festival" from 22nd to 31st July in Kilmarnock and the programme details are below. It includes poetry readings, period dress-up events, a summer dinner and a concert hosted by folk musician Alastair McDonald. 

Image Below: Programme courtesy of Robert Burns 1st Edition Festival.