Isabel Ecclestone MacKay
Isabel Ecclestone MacKay was a Canadian poet and novelist born on November 25, 1875, in Woodstock, Ontario. Educated in local public schools and at a Collegiate Institute, she was affectionately known by her nickname "Bell." In 1895, she married P. J. MacKay, with whom she had three daughters. The family relocated to Vancouver, British Columbia, in 1909. MacKay's literary career included contributions to various magazines such as Harper's and Red Book, and she published a book of poetry titled "Between the Lights" in 1904. Her work was recognized for its philosophical depth and lyrical beauty, earning her awards, including prizes for her poems "Marguerite de Roberval" and "The Passing of Cadieux." In addition to poetry, she authored two novels that garnered positive reviews for their engaging prose and innovative ideas. MacKay was also active in literary circles as vice president of the Canadian Authors Association and a member of the Canadian Women's Press Club. She passed away in 1928, leaving a notable legacy in Canadian literature.
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Isabel Ecclestone MacKay
Writer
- Born: November 25, 1875
- Birthplace: Woodstock, Ontario, Canada
- Died: August 15, 1928
- Place of death: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Biography
Isabel Ecclestone MacKay was born in Woodstock, Ontario, Canada, on November 25, 1875. Her parents were Donald McLeod MacPherson and Priscilla Ecclestone, She was educated in the local public schools in Ontario and at the Collegiate Institute, where MacKay’s teachers and classmates called her by her nickname, Bell. She was often described as eager to work and as having great sensitivity. In April, 1895, she married P. J. MacKay, a local court stenographer. The couple had three daughters. In 1909, the family moved to Vancouver, British Columbia.
MacKay’s poetry and stories appeared in numerous magazines such as Cassel’s, Harper’s, Youth’s Companion, Red Book, and Life. In 1904, she published a book of poetry, Between the Lights. Two of her poems, “Marguerite de Roberval,” and “The Passing of Cadieux,” won MacKay a monetary prize from the Globe. Her poetry was described as philosophic in nature, written in a beautiful lyrical style. MacKay also published two novels, both of which were well received by literary critics. MacKay’s prose was praised for its easy and convincing style and for her genius for presenting new ideas. In addition to her writing, she was vice president of the Canadian Authors Association, and she was a notable member of the Canadian’s Women’s Press Club. MacKay died in 1928.