Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 1939-2014 (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
11 cm of textual records
7 photographs
Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
John Ross Mackay was born in Formasa (Taiwan) on December 31, 1915 to Canadian missionary parents. He earned degrees from Clark University (B.A.. 1939) and Boston University (M.A., 1941). During WWII, Mackay enlisted as a gunner with they Royal Canada Artillery. He was recruited into the Canadian Intelligence Corps in 1942 where he spent the remainder of the war breaking Japanese codes. Post war, Mackay continued on an academic trajectory earning his Ph.D. in1949 from the Université de Montréal. Mackay was an expert in Arctic geology and the world's leading authority on the subject of permafrost. Mackay died 28 October, 1914.
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Donated by Anne Mackay, daugher of John Ross Mackay, July 2016.
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Accession consists of 3 folders and 3 bound books of unpublished records relating to the WWII military career of John Ross Mackay. Includes a mixture of original and photocopied service records, photographs, and letters.
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling
Aug 2016 - Archival appraisal complete (JN)
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
No restrictions on access.
Conditions governing reproduction
Archival materials do not circulate and must be consulted in the TMM Library and Archives Reading Room. Duplication of materials in the collection may be subject to copyright and other restrictions. Please contact TMM Library and Archives staff for guidance on reproduction.
Language of material
English
Script of material
Language and script notes
Physical characteristics and technical requirements
Good.