CURLING IN SCOTLAND

Over the centuries Scots have proved not only to be prolific inventors but also outstanding developers of other peoples ideas and pastimes. An example of this talent is in the world of curling. Scots are recognised the world over as leaders in the playing and development of the game and in some quarters are credited with its discovery.
 
The 1565 painting "Hunters in the Snow" by Holland's Peter Breugel features scenes resembling modern curling. However by 1630's along with golf and archery, curling had become a major recreational pastime in Scotland.
 
Lochs no longer freeze to the extent that they did during curling's main expansion period in the 19th century, when it was played in almost every Scottish parish. As a result the 20,000 active members of the Royal Caledonian Curling Club now play indoor on refrigerated ice.
 
Scottish immigrants introduced curling to Canada and in 1807 the first club, The Montreal Curling Club, was founded. As Scottish influence spread throughout North America so did the sport of curling. By 1900 exceptionally cold winters had driven the sport indoors with most clubs building indoor rinks.
 
In 1832 a group of Scottish farmers organised the first curling club in the United States with the formation of the Orchard Lake Curling Club of Detroit.