By Julie Waters
MEMBERS of Bangor’s long established McKee family enjoyed a reunion with a difference when they recreated a photograph captured over seven decades ago.
The family have lived in Ava Street for generations, with their roots in the town stretching back to the 1700s, and the city’s distinctive seafront McKee Clock built by a distant family member.
However, it was the discovery of a cherished photograph, taken of Lily and Marshall McKee and their 14 children outside their family home in 1955, that prompted the next generations to recreate the moment at the same location.
Sandra McCrackin, who still lives in the family home, is one of the reunion organisers and was thrilled to bring the family together and create new memories.
Said Sandra: “We probably have about 60 cousins, they are all married and have had children, so it is a massive family. We never have the
family all together at the one time, so it is great to have everyone together.”
Explaining the significance of their family photo, Sandra said: “The photograph was taken back in 1955 in Ava Street, and in it is my granny Lily, granddad Marshall and their 14 children; Marshall Junior, June, William, Bryan, Cora, Olga, Mollie, Leslie, Bebe, Hugh, Bobby, Victor, James and Greta.
“We just thought it would be great to recreate the photo with the eldest child and grandchildren of the siblings who are pictured in the original photo. I can’t wait to see them in the exact place as their parents and grandparents.”
Andrew McKee spoke of his family’s strong ties to the seaside city saying: “The McKee Clock still stands proudly at Bangor seafront, its hands faithfully marking the passing of time. Few who stroll past it today realise that its builder was a distant member of the very same McKee family whose roots in Bangor stretch all the way back to the 1700s.
“Strong, resilient and unmistakably full of character, the McKees became woven into the very heart of the town.” However Mr McKee explained life was far from easy in those early days: “The original McKee parents show managed to raise 14 children with barely enough money to keep a fire lit.
“Dr Fee, a well known doctor in Bangor at the time joked that when he visited the family’s small home in Castle Park ‘the children just came out from everywhere.”
Mr McKee said that while hardship was familiar to the family ‘so was laughter’: “Despite growing up with so little, the McKee children forged their way in the building and construction trades. Each of the 14 went on to become successful, respected and known for their determination.
“The photograph remembered today, stands as a testament not only to the family’s size but to their strength, unity and pride.”
Said Mr McKee: “The McKees were never ones to blend quietly into the background. They were the life and soul of every party. They were loyal to the core, fiercely protective of one another and it was often said ‘hit one, hit them all’.
“As the years passed, the family lived in many houses around Bangor before settling together at Ava Street, a place lived with noise, laughter and stories.”
Mr McKee said that his family name still remains well known in Bangor. “The family still loves to gather, reminisce and laugh about the old days, times many say were better and certainly simpler. Their memories are treasured, their stories retold with pride and mischief and their bond remains unshakeable.”
He said the family reunion was both a ‘tribute and a promise’. “A tribute to those who came before and a promise to keep the family firmly connected as the generations continue. The McKees have always stood together and this gathering ensures they always will,” said Mr McKee.
