From the late 19C to the 20C, Kirkcudbright was home to a colony of artists including the Australian Edward Atkinson Hornel and his friend, Charles Oppenheimer, E.A. Taylor and Jessie M. King, Phyllis Bone and Bessie McNichol, all captivated by the attractive town, the unspoiled surrounding countryside and the particular quality of the light. The attractive 17C tolbooth and bell tower pay tribute to their talented work and their contribution to life in the town.