During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Kirkintilloch found itself at the centre of a transport network that was unrivalled in Scotland. The cutting of the Forth & Clyde Canal, and the subsequent building of the Monkland & Kirkintilloch Railway, meant that it became a transport hub that was ideally situated to trade with Scotland's cities, as well as exploiting its own local mineral reserves. It flourished, with mining and iron-founding just two of the industries that generated employment and large amounts of revenue. Local businesses such as Mavor & Coulson and the Star Foundry illustrate Kirky's industrial past, while the story of Lanfine and Broomhill homes recalls another local employer and important presence in the district. The village of Waterside is included too, along with many interesting sights from Kirkintilloch's past.