Whitfield McKay was born in Baldwin Township to John and Elizabeth McKay, natives of Ontario, Canada. They settled in Baldwin Township in 1881 and later in Grand Prairie Township.

Whitfield McKay and Pearl Taylor were married February 10, 1909. Her parents, Lewis and Henrietta Taylor, came to Minnie Lake Twp. in 1892.

Considered an excellent farmer, Whitfield McKay weathered the depression years without mortgaging or losing the family farm. 560 acres were scientifically farmed, assisted by dairy cattle, hogs, chickens and turkeys.

Ten children were born to this marriage: Two died in infancy and eight are still active, contributing members of their communities. All attended the Grand Prairie High School and Valley City State College before going on to other things.

The children are: Lewis, Ralph, Helen, Lyle, Everett, Royal and Hillis.

Whitfield was township clerk for more than forty years; on the school board for thirty seven years; with the P.M.A. for fifteen years and a director of the Cooperative Creamery for twenty five years.

Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 147