An old Mackay and Co. bottle from Perth

Of all things to collect, why I have a soft spot for old bottles, I do not know. Maybe because they are versatile for so many uses: vase, drinking bottle, container, candle holder, etc. I would love to see them with a refreshing drink being sipped with an old fashioned paper straw. How amazing it would be to see these bottles being used again in a different light.

This darling bottle, possibly used for cordial drinks is from the years 1928 to 1966. It's definitely older than me if it was made between those years. This one I won from an auction for only AU$6.00.

Learning about its history has been such an interesting journey. Its origin began in 1928 by Francis Charles McKay and James Thomson. McKay was a hotel keeper in Kalgoorlie until moving to Perth, Western Australia in 1924. He joined James Thomson as partner in a new business in Monger Street, which traded under the name of Mackay and Co.

In 1962, around this time, Mackay and Co were licensed to bottle Pepsi-Cola and subsequently targeted by the Coca-Cola Company for acquisition. In 1966, Coca-Cola purchased the business interests but not the factory of Mackay and Co. The Mackay name continued to be used at the Coca-Cola plant at 661 Newcastle Street here in Perth.

After the cessation of manufacturing of soft drinks and aerated waters at Money Street the factory was leased and later sold to Skippers Transport. In 1985, the place was resumed by Government and leased to various organisations over the subsequent fifteen years. In early 2002, the site continues to be used as a building materials salvage yard by Earthwise Enterprises.

Through my research, I was quite sad when I found out that the old building was unfortunately demolished in 2007 as it did not bear much historical value. The old manufacturing establishment is now a commercial area for new office buildings by the town of Vincent, Perth.

At least I got a glimpse of its heritage. Beautiful, isn't it? I just love it!