John L. Stipp settled in an area just west of the area now known as Macleay. Stipp was pastor of the local Baptist Church, and was referred to as Elder Stipp. He donated land for the Stipp Cemetery just west of the community.

1880 Stipp post office established May 4, 1880 with William Taylor postmaster. The name of the office was changed to Macleay Feb 3, 1882.