Jonaidh Eàirdsidh Dhòmhnaill Bhig

John Joe MacKenzie, better known as "Johnny Archie," was from Rear Christmas Island, Cape Breton County. Born January 28, 1911, he was the son of Archie D. MacKenzie of Rear Christmas Island and Mary Ann MacNeil of Jamesville. One of the first mechanics in the area, he was entirely self-taught, developing his skills through hands-on experience and an innate problem-solving ability. His expertise quickly made him an invaluable resource to the community. In the late 1920s he studied at the Agricultural College in Truro and became widely recognized in the area for his expertise in all aspects of farming.

Johnny married Catherine MacKenzie of Rear Christmas Island, and together they raised a family of five. He worked as a snowplow operator for a time before, like many from the parish, moving to the “Boston States” in search of better employment opportunities. A man of strong voice and presence, Johnny was well known for his Gaelic singing. In the late 1970s, he returned to the old homestead, where he lived until his passing on December 28, 1985.