History

In 1925 Robert MacKay donated $12,000 to the Town of Goderich to construct a community hall.  The cornerstone of MacKay Hall was laid on October 14, 1926 and the building was officially opened on February 2, 1927.  The hall was used by many community groups including The Women’s Institute and the Goderich Little Theatre.  During the war years the I.O.D.E. offered meals and organized dances for soldiers stationed at the air force base in Port Albert.  The hall was also used by the school board to accommodate classes during school renovations.

In 1977 representatives of Health & Welfare Canada along with town council members toured the town in search of a building suitable for a seniors centre.  They decided that MacKay Hall was an ideal location.  A steering committee formed, plans were drawn up and in 1979 a party was held at the hall to launch a fundraising campaign.  Grants were obtained from New Horizons and Wintario and generous donations were received from the Town of Goderich, Colborne Township, local businesses, service clubs, and individuals.  Renovations began in June of 1980 and The MacKay Centre for Seniors was officially opened in October, 1980.

The Centre is Governed by a Board of approximately eight Directors. Over the past 40 years we have been fortunate to have many wonderful people provide guidance and support to help keep the Centre running and relevant. From the Cabarets, Pool tables, Euchre tournaments and live performances to the MacKay Choristers, The Goderich Art Club and Goderich and District Horticultural Society, The MacKay Centre has been the place for senior’s in the Goderich community for 40 years. 

Alex Saunders who took part in the original opening ceremonies said “the old Temperance Hall served its  purpose for 75 years; perhaps the new hall would service the people of Goderich for another 75 years.”

Ninety-three years later, MacKay Hall still stands proudly on the corner of North and Nelson streets.  We believe Mr. MacKay would be pleased to see that so many Goderich Community members still carry his vision, making full use of his building.