In this episode we reflect on the life and times of an amazing woman who brought “lilies for the soul” to our community through beauty and colour. Mary McKay’s story and her connection to Collingwood is both as vibrant and inspiring as her artwork.

After the story we invite everyone to check out our sidewalk exhibit on Hurontario Street, celebrating women in local history. A joint project with the Sheffield Park Black History and Cultural Museum, it runs until March 20th. Make sure you find all twelve unique signs showcasing business owners, war-workers, medical professionals, artists (including Mary McKay) and sports heroes. A quick thank you to Carole Stuart at the Collingwood Public Library’s Local History Department is long overdue. Much of the research for this podcast wouldn’t be possible without the resources to be found there.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or story ideas we would love to hear from you. Drop us a line at www.facebook.com/collingwoodmuseum or [email protected]

Episode Picture:

Collingwood Museum Collection, TR1871. Nina Ridley (left) stands beside Mary McKay (right).

Research:

Isabel Griffin, Enterprise Bulletin March 18, 1981

Obituary Notice Enterprise Bulletin January 1987

The Group of Seven, Canadian Encyclopedia. https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/group-of-seven

Collingwood Public Library Local History files on the McKay family.