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Bro. James R. McKay PM
Bro. James McKay was master of the lodge in 1945—46, but is probably better remembered by local people as the Provost of Johnstone 1950—59 when the Queen visited the town. As master immediately after the war, he was extremely busy with lodge meetings every Wednesday night June to August to accommodate the large number of candidates joining (7 every degree). On leaving the chair, Bro. McKay presented the mark ceremonial stones still in use today.
It is interesting to note at the march in the Annual Ball within the lodge—the photos of the PMs are displayed on the walls and the old benches lining the wall and Bro. McKay is wearing his PM apron and Provost jewel.
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The Pipe Band was founded by Ex-Provost of Johnstone Burgh, James McKay, in 1942, and has been going strong ever since, wearing the Blue McKay tartan in recognition of its founder. Bro. McKay was also the first President of Johnstone Burgh FC (1953) when Keanie Park (named after Bro. James Keanie MM 242) was built.
Bro. McKay was instrumental in forming the social club. However, just prior to this in 1971, the lodge had discussed moving to larger premises:
(a) the old high school in Ludovic Square (b) Beith Road at Williamson Place (c) The old West Church manse in Graham Street (d) Corner of Walkinshaw Street and Brewery Street (e) Part of the old Loudon’s site at Peockland Gardens (f) The east side of Canal Street near the High Street
None came to fruition for various reasons and so the brethren decided to extend the lodge at the rear and a social club was built. (Full details can be read in the lodge’s history book). And so what would become a very profitable venture until recent years with the change in laws, we have a club and also in 1974 Bro. McKay was made a Freeman of the Burgh of Johnstone and brought his scroll to a meeting for brethren to see.
Below is Bro. McKay in his finery as Provost; on the left is his PM jewel and on the right his Past Patron jewel of the Order of the Eastern Star, both in the possession of the lodge. Bro. Jimmy was a real character who worked tirelessly for the lodge.
