Life long resident of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Doug Hunter shared his life story with humour. We shared a lot of laughs together while working on his story, and the cover was only the beginning. Another family treasure, loaded with some local NOTL history.

It was a pleasure to work on Mika Wall Enns’ life story, which was a gift for her family.

“Hero For A Hundred”

Written by family friend, Mark Dobell, the story of Herbert Bergen records how he became involved in rescuing Mennonites from Russian occupied Eastern Germany following the Second World War. While over the years his family heard bits and pieces of Herbert’s daring involvement, author Dobell was entrusted to interview and write the story of how nearly a hundred refugees managed to escape to the West. Contact People’s History Publications for copies.

“Wall’s Furniture Store” was a fixture in Virgil for 60 years. Dave Wall’s ability to attract attention of traveler’s to Niagara-on-the-Lake allowed this independent retail operation to out perform many of Canada’s national retailers. Dave was salesman, dedicated to his family and passionate about his community. Copies of “Wall’s of Virgil” are available from PHP. 

Our condolences to Dave’s wife and family, upon his death in November 2019. We are thankful he shared his life experiences, including some important history to Niagara-on-the-Lake and Southern Ontario. His induction to the NOTL Sports Hall of Fame in September 2019 is indication of his contributions to the community.

“Under the Trembling Aspen” written by Reg Faust is in memory of his wife, Mary Jane. As a work of creative non-fiction Mary Jane and Reg’s life experiences in the Canadian Arctic and Newfoundland appear on every page. Includes colour photographs by Dennis Minty. Copies are available from PHP. “Maxine Ross: Memories of a Dancer.” Thank you, to students and friends who contributed “tributes” for Maxine. Her memoir was written by Randy Klaassen, of People’s History Publications (PHP), and is available from Amazon.ca / Amazon.com, or from PHP in Niagara-on-the-Lake (contact for information).

People’s History Publications was selected to publish Madalyn Neufeld’s first novel, “The Cost of Freedom.” This underground railroad story for young readers has a surprising conclusion on the shores of Niagara-on-the-Lake. For copies of “The Cost of Freedom” contact People’s History Publications.

“Berries, Tickles and Saltwater Ice – Expanded Edition” by Reg Faust contains 281 pages of stories of people living in the outposts of Newfoundland, and 20 colour photographs by Dennis Minty. To purchase contact Peoples History Publications or the author.

“Christmas Along the Way” is a collection of stories for the season. Currently out of print; copies in other formats are available. Contact PHP for further interest.

Blanche Quinn’s story, “I Did It My Way: That’s Why Nothing Works” is a humorous adventure of life in Toronto and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Condolences to the Quinn Family, upon Blanche’s death in May 2020.

To purchase copies email phpnotl@gmail.com

During the Second World War Jack Hunter served as a quartermaster aboard the HMCS Prince Robert in the South Pacific. His knowledge of the ship’s operations and the assignment to liberate Canadian POW’s held at Hong Kong is a story of courage often overlooked in Canadian history. Condolences to the Hunter Family upon Jack’s death in July 2017.

Copies are available. Contact PHP for further interest.

Dorothy (Kemp) Taylor began singing with guitar as a teenager in southern Manitoba during the 1930’s. It was her way of helping the family earn cash income during tough times. Her memoir, “Journey into My Music” includes a CD of Dorothy’s music. This work was a private family project, and not for public distribution.