Mckayp

Transcribed from "An Illustrated History of The Big Bend Country, embracing Lincoln, Douglas, Adams and Franklin counties, State of Washington", published by Western Historical Publishing Co., 1904.

     PETER McKAY, who dwells seven and one-half miles northeast from Almira, is a son of the Emerald Isle. His birth was on June 10, 1860, and his parents were Michael and Margaret (Chambers) McKay, natives of Ireland and prominent people. They came to America in 1856 and returned to Ireland in 1860. Our subject was educated in the public schools of his native land, learned the carpenter trade and also the art of making oat meal. He conducted his trade and the mill work for eight years, then in 1887, he came to the United States and for two years worked in Chicago. It was in 1889, when Mr. McKay landed in Lincoln county and soon thereafter he located a pre-emption and then a homestead. He has since bought a half section which gives him an estate of six hundred and forty acres. The same is under cultivation and provided with all the improvements needed on a first class farm, the buildings being convenient and substantial, while his residence is a comfortable home. Mr. McKay has taken especial pains with his orchard and has fitted up his place in a tasty manner and the same is one of the best in Lincoln county.
     In 1889, Mr. McKay married Miss Ellen Wallace, a native of Ireland where she was reared and educated. Her parents were William and Margaret (Heron) Wallace, natives of Ireland and wealthy farmers. To this union, five children have been born, Margaret J., W. James, Wallace J., Alexander C., and Richard. Mr. McKay has the following brothers and sister, John, James, Michael, and Mrs. Cecilia Murray.
     Mr. McKay started in life without any capital. He is one of the wealthy men of Lincoln county today, and has gained his entire holdings by his own labors. He has manifested skill and wisdom here in the community while his ability and uprightness have made him many friends.

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