PORT-WILLIAM, a village, in the parish of MochRUM,
county of Wigtown, 85 miles (S. W.) from Wigtown;
containing 634 inhabitants. This is a neat and
thriving sea-port village, situated on the eastern shore
of Luce bay. It was built about 17 62 by Sir William
Maxwell, Bart., of Monreith, in honour of whom it is
named. In I788 small barracks were erected here for
military, and for custom-house officers, in order to the
prevention of contraband trade. The harbour is safe
and commodious, and large quantities of potatoes and
grain are shipped for Liverpool and Lancaster. The bay
abounds with fish of excellent quality, and in great
variety. In the village is a post-office, which has a daily
delivery; and a school, endowed by the lady of the present
baronet, is attended by about eighty children.