A Centenary Marked by Applause and Pride
Lt. Archie McKay walked into the City of Miami Historic Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum on Nov. 14, one day before turning 100. The moment was powerful. The room filled with applause, cheers, and the bright rhythms of Booker T. Washington Senior High School’s band — the school he graduated from in 1948.
For many in the crowd, this was more than a birthday celebration. It was a tribute to a man whose life stretches across almost the entire story of Black Miami’s struggle and progress. McKay’s century of service reflects courage, discipline, and a deep love for his community.
His daughter, Carolyn McKay, summed it up simply. “I know you don’t get to be 100 without God,” she said. “He’s been a good dad, a great provider, and a great protector.”
Honoring a Life of Service and Leadership
The event also launched the museum’s 2025–2026 “We Too Sing America” fundraising campaign. The goal is to uplift Black stories as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. Museum Director Terrance Cribbs-Lorrant said McKay’s life captures the resilience of a people who gave everything, even when America gave little in return.
Cribbs-Lorrant explained that McKay’s story echoes the steady rhythm of commitment and sacrifice. He emphasized that celebrating McKay is also a reminder of Miami’s responsibility to protect and share the history of Black officers.
To honor him, the museum presented gifts, shared memories, and reflected on his influence. Miami Police Chief Manuel A. Morales also joined the celebration, presenting McKay with a token of appreciation for his decades of service.
Growing Up in Segregated Miami
McKay was born on Nov. 15, 1925, and grew up in a segregated Miami. In those days, Black officers faced tight restrictions. They could not arrest white residents, attend the police academy, or patrol outside Black neighborhoods. Many cases they handled were ignored, and their work was often undervalued.
Despite these limits, young McKay held onto a strong work ethic. After graduating from high school, he focused on serving his country. His discipline and sense of duty would later shape his long policing career.
His path to service began much earlier than his policing years. Only five days after his 18th birthday, the U.S. Army drafted him during World War II. That moment changed his life forever.
A Veteran of Courage in World War II
McKay trained as an engineer at Camp Claiborne in Louisiana before being deployed to France. His job was to scout terrain — a risky task. He often recalled that the only time he felt true fear was when German bombs flew overhead.
He later served in Okinawa, helping construct a U.S. Air Force base. Eventually, he transitioned into the Air Force and later the Air Force Reserve. His military career gave him leadership skills, discipline, and global experience.
By the time he returned to Miami, he was a decorated veteran ready to serve his city. His military years shaped the calm, strategic style he later brought to policing.
Entering Miami Policing on a Dare
In 1954, McKay joined the Miami Police Department in an unexpected way. A friend dared him to apply. He refused at first, but when the friend joked that he was “chicken,” McKay couldn’t let it go. He took the test — and passed.
At the time, Black officers were treated as second-class within the force. They patrolled only Black neighborhoods, often without proper tools, support, or recognition. Despite this, McKay worked with quiet focus and determination.
His skill stood out. He solved cases that others ignored. He earned community trust. Even though white colleagues refused to acknowledge his title, McKay became Miami’s first Black detective — a major milestone not just for him but for the city.
Fighting for Equal Promotions and Fair Treatment
By 1971, McKay had seen enough unfair treatment in the department. He and eight other Black officers sued the City of Miami over discriminatory promotion practices. Their stand attracted national attention.
The U.S. Justice Department stepped in. The case changed the structure of promotions in the Miami Police Department. McKay was promoted to sergeant, a win that opened doors for many Black officers after him.
He served more than 20 years before retiring. Later, the department honored him with the title of lieutenant in recognition of his lifelong contributions.
Preserving Miami’s Black Police History
After retirement, McKay shaped Miami’s history in a different way. He fought to save the old “Negro-Only” Precinct building from demolition. The precinct had once been the only place where Black officers served as a team and where Black defendants were judged by a Black judge.
McKay and Lt. Otis Davis pushed city commissioners to preserve the building. Their efforts succeeded. In 2008, the site reopened as the City of Miami Historic Black Police Precinct and Courthouse Museum.
McKay continued volunteering at the museum well into his 90s. Cribbs-Lorrant said McKay often drove himself, dropped off his grandkids, and then worked six to eight hours giving tours. His dedication was unmatched.
Family Memories That Define His Legacy
To his family, McKay is more than a public hero. He is a humble leader, a quiet teacher, and a man who valued service. His children and grandchildren carry warm memories of time spent with him.
One memory stands out. During a family reunion at Stone Mountain in Georgia, McKay insisted on climbing the mountain. He had once been barred from the area during his military years. When he reached the top, his family finally understood the joy on his face. It was a victory he once was denied.
Granddaughter Anise Wooten remembers him driving her to school even at age 95. Another granddaughter, Ellie Martinez, remembers sitting with him as he held a golden crown awarded by a club that honored him. These small moments reflect his gentle strength.
Celebrating a Century of Impact
Friday’s celebration made one thing clear: Miami owes much to elders like Archie McKay. His story shows how courage and patience can help build a better city.
Proceeds from the event will support new museum exhibits, oral histories, and a virtual archive to preserve the stories of retired officers. The museum is also participating in Give Miami Day to raise more support.
When asked how he wants to be remembered, McKay paused. Then he smiled. “My legacy will be like this,” he said, “watching my high school serenade. I’ll remember that the rest of my life.”
A Closing Message of Purpose
The ceremony ended with one of McKay’s favorite hymns: “If I can help somebody as I travel along, then my living will not have been in vain.”
Cribbs-Lorrant said those words perfectly describe McKay’s life. Through service, courage, and love for community, McKay helped build the Miami people know today. And through the museum, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
