Mackay collection to be exhibited in Taiwan.

Like many Victorian-era travellers, Dr. George Leslie Mackay, the Canadian Presbyterian medical missionary who first arrived in Taiwan in 1871, shipped artifacts home that once belonged to the island's Han Chinese and aboriginal population. His collection, which includes textiles, religious statues, utensils and head ornaments, was stored at the Royal

Ontario Museum (ROM) for decades. Now, as part of the celebration marking the 100th anniversary of his death on June 2, the ROM's collection will be exhibited in Taipei.

During a visit to Taiwan last May, ROM's senior curator Trudy Nicks said she was struck by the respect paid to Mackay's memory. The Mackay Memorial Hospital in Taipei contains a museum acknowledging his early work, and his medical clinic, where some of his equipment remains on display, is a historical site. There are also statues in his honour.

"This exhibit will be important for contemporary people to see," said Nicks. "Mackay was committed to the country." (Source: Maclean's)