The nephew of Canadian War Hero, Billy Bishop V.C., returns to childhood home for milestone celebration.

Billy Bishop Home and Museum is hosting a public celebration for the 80th birthday of Fred MacKay, nephew of Canadian War Hero, Billy Bishop V.C., on Saturday, December 21, 2019 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Son of Bishop’s younger sister, Louise Bishop, MacKay grew up in the historic Bishop home on 3rd Avenue West in Owen Sound, and currently serves on the museum’s Board of Directors.

“We are delighted to have a member of the Bishop family on our Board at the Museum,” says Emily Jolliffe, curator for the Museum. “It is a very special thing to be able to celebrate with Fred on his 80th birthday in his childhood home, an evening that will become a part of the Museum’s history.”

The celebration will include a wine reception, with donations to the Billy Bishop Home and Museum being requested in lieu of gifts. Interested parties are asked to confirm attendance by contacting the Billy Bishop Home and Museum in advance of the event.

Victoria Cross recipient, Air Marshal William Avery "Billy" Bishop, was born on February, 8th, 1894 in Owen Sound. He was a Canadian First World War flying ace, officially credited with 72 victories, making him the top Canadian ace in The Great War. Bishop’s childhood home, now the Billy Bishop Home & Museum, was built in 1884 and remains a historical landmark in the heart of Owen Sound. In addition to honouring Bishop, the Museum also serves to remember the contributions of Canada’s many Veterans and those currently serving.

source: media release, Billy Bishop Home and Museum