Since they had raised such a great amount of money, they scraped staying with just their old statue and building plans. They now had the money and means to extend their building of a building worthy of the poet by using an architect. They held a contest to find the most appropriate sculptor to come forth, which would be W.G. Stevenson.

On August 9, 1879, the statue was shown for the first time to the biggest gathering of individuals, this tiny area had ever known. However, in November 2004, the statue and building were partially damaged by a fire. In 2008 the monument was restored and returned to its former glory and was placed with brand new accessories and settings to enhance the Burns Monument Centre. Today, it proudly stands as it once did many years ago.

The monument and statue are the perfect backdrop for any important pictures to be taken, such as weddings, reunions and other special occasions. Alexander Kay, who the park is named after gave the land as a gift to start a 30-acre park for all to enjoy. She believed that a park was important for bodily health and greatly improved moral issues. She also believed in every town having one and that was her life’s wish. She thought that land should be set aside in every down for the sole purpose of a park. She often said that to many times came up, where a town had not thought of, until it was too late, or set aside ample amounts of land for a park.

In 2004, the monument was severly damaged by fire, but has since been restored and the area redeveloped into the Burns Monument Centre.

The history of Kilmarnock Scotland, is one steeped rich in history. It is a gorgeous place, with restful and peaceful areas of beautiful scenery. It is home to a railway tram and was one of the earliest known anywhere in the world. Kilmarnock is also home to the well known popular Johnnie Walker Scotch whiskey. The company of Johnnie Walker Scotch has been around a very long time but have made plans to close its doors by the year 2011.

It is also home to the famous and well known historical buildings like, King Street Church and the Town Hall, all which is being rebuilt. Kilmarnock Scotland houses a beautiful 30-acre park, known as Kay Park. This park was given as a gift by a woman named Alexander Kay. It was first opened to the public in 1979 and the Burns Monument can be found located in it.

Kilmarnock Scotland has always been a town with transportation on its mind and the tram lines and power lines put into place are there to prove it. The idea was tossed around to extend the trek of the tram system but with rising costs, the plan never got approval. The town of Kilmarnock also is known for Dean Castle. The castle is home to an impressive armour and weapon exhibit and various musical instruments known as the Van Raalte collection.

The Sandbed Street Bridge is the oldest known surviving bridge in the area. The diversity of the area of Kilmarnock, has contributed to its rich historical past and draws visitors world wide. Kilmarnock is the very essence of Scotland. The town beckons for many to come explore and learn about its rich historical past.