Mackay, Rev. George Leslie
1844 - 1901
Son of Scots immigrants, Presbyterian Missionary George Mackay was born near Embro, Zorra Township. In 1872 he founded the first Canadian overseas mission in Tamsui, Taiwan. An unconventional character, but sensitive to local needs, Mackay practised lay dentistry and trained local clergy. He married a Taiwanese, Tiun Chhang-Mian, and had three daughters. The 'Black-Bearded Barbarian' worked in north Taiwan until his death, establishing 60 chapels, several schools and a hospital. In 1881, he raised funds here in Oxford County to help build Oxford College, Tamsui, which later became a university. He was also an outspoken opponent of the Canadian head tax on Chinese immigrants. An inspiration to the evangelical mission movement in Ontario, Mackay remains a national hero in Taiwan. Each year many visitors and dignatary from the Taiwanese community travel to Oxford County to view the commemorative plaques in Embro, ON. A statue of Rev. Mackay is located on the lawn at the County Courthouse in Woodstock, ON.
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