Andrew Gilmour Ferguson

born 29.4.1858 Kilmarnock, married Ellen Rowat in 1877. In 1881, he was power loom tenter at 9 Nursery St, Kilmarnock. In 1891 and 1901, he was a cotton cloth manufacturer at 5 Charles St. Andrew joined the Kilmarnock Cricket Club in 1875. "He learned the rudiments of the game with the junior clubs that existed in the town at the time, and when he came to the senior combination his innate gift as a batsman proved a decided acquisition to the club. In 1833, he was first elected a Director and for the next 4 seasons, 1883-7, he had the unique distinction of carrying off the leading batting honours of the club. In 1833 his average was 33, and his prize was a bat presented by Captain Sneddon, the donor handing over the gift at the annual supper. In this season Mr Ferguson realised the aim and ambition of every batsman by scoring a century, the exact figures being 104, against a very strong Clydesdale club. In 1884, he was Vice-Captain of the team, and, for the next 4 years, 1885-8, he was Captain, being also Treasurer in the first three. In 1886, Mr Jas Dickie, seedsman, was President of the club and at the annual general meeting intimated that he would give a special prize that season, and selected the match to be played against Kelburne at Paisley on June 5th as the test to decide the winner, the prize to be awarded to the batsman who made 50 runs. Mr Ferguson secured the prize with a score of 68, and Mr Dickie presented him with a beautiful gold scarf pin mounted with wickets, bat and ball - a gift Mr Ferguson still retains in his possession." Andrew was again Captain of the 1st X1 from 1899-1900, often scoring the highest batting average, with his son James serving as Vice-Captain. Andrew "proved himself a real club man until his playing days ended in 1902 - aye, and a tower of inspiration to every Kilmarnock player to the end of his life. He was a familiar figure at Kirkstyle, always to be found gazing lovingly from the dressing room window, following every game, senior or junior with great interest. When he finally retired from the Committee of Management in 1904 he was created the first Life Member of the Club in appreciation of the long and valuable services rendered to the club over 25 years as Vice-President, Captain, Treasurer, Vice-Captain and director." He died on 12.1.1940, of 5 Charles St Kilmarnock.