Mungo Mackay

Biography

Mungo Mackay arrived from Scotland to become a transformative figure in Boston’s maritime life, building packet ships, managing warehouses, and ensuring the city remained a reliable hub for transatlantic travel and trade. His knowledge of the sea informed his role in local navigation boards and in the encouragement of safe harbors for fishermen and merchants alike.

He was equally attentive to Boston’s charitable needs, supporting seamen’s widows and contributing to parish relief funds, while his own household welcomed sailors and travelers with hospitality. Today his grave at Granary Burying Ground answers the quiet tribute to a man who kept Boston’s sails full.