Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
You might think of it as a storybook, not just an historic account – at least, Doug Johnston certainly would.
Which is appropriate, since Township Tales: The Intangible Heritage of Alnwick-Haldimand Township was inspired by the beloved local resident who always had a tale to share about those days before smart phones and superhighways.
Heritage Alnwick-Haldimand member Liam Cragg recalled how the late nonagenarian would attend their meetings and then, afterwards, would always say something along the lines of, “Did I ever tell you about the first traffic accident in Grafton?”
Johnston would be encouraged to share, and his audience would learn amazing things (like the fact that Grafton used to have five service stations and a toll road).
The time came, Cragg recalled, when committee member Bob Deane said they must get some of these stories on the record or they would be lost.
“That’s why we went ahead and did what we did,” Cragg said.
Along with Johnston’s stories, the committee dug up articles about things like the old Grafton canning factory and the village’s last telephone exchange, plus a healthy helping of what Cragg termed fun facts to fill the 300-page volume with perhaps 30 amazing tales.
“Everything from someone’s memories to researched items to one-liners,” he said.
“It was a good comunity effort, and we are very pleased about it.”
A great deal of credit must also go to the interviewer or compiler behind it all, he added. Raquel Devison has been hired by the township as a summer student for the past two years, and they have made her talents available for the project.
“How many other 19-year-olds do you know who will be published?” Cragg said.
Other contributors include Barbara Selkirk, who acted as editor and mentor for Devison.
A lively cover in blues and greens was designed by Grafton artist Rick Hertle, including his take on such landmarks as the township hall, Barnum House, the Ste. Anne’s compound, the Alderville cenotaph and the Roseneath Carousel.
The committee is hoping to make this a revenue-neutral project, as the township has advanced some of the funds necessary for the venture and must be repaid.
Brighton-based Willow Publishing is expected to have the book out by Aug. 23, and the committee is arranging a book-release event and other promotions.
The libraries will each get a copy or two out of the initial run of 400, and contributors’ copies will be distributed. Thereafter, you can buy your copy at either of the township’s two municipal offices for a flat $10, and other sales outlets are being arranged.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
