Muriel Newman set out to capture and contain the history and anecdotes of her neighbours and friends along the lane in neighbouring Normanby Township.
She chatted, listened, and learned, compiled, and typed and now has two books to her credit. The River Flows on Forever – Memories of Normanby Township, and More Memories.
What started as a millennium project for the Normandy Ayton Grey seniors has flourished into two books. Familiar names of villages still designated as landmarks to reach rural destinations are highlighted. Names such as: Alsfeldt, Moltke, Varney, Orchardville, Lauderbach, Hampden, Biemen’s Corner, Calderwood, Gleneden, Nenagh, Egremont, Neustadt, and Ayton.
Historical tidbits, photos, clergymen, doctors, and settlers are found dispersed between memories of general stores their stock and patrons, rural woes, hydro hook-ups, cows, culture, genealogy, soldiers, sailors, and pilots.
They all found their way to the pages of the books. Mailmen on horseback, skipping school, and bears in the kitchen all conjure up scents and images of writing by coal oil lamps, frolicking in the fields, and curling up on bear rugs by open fireplaces.
There are Proverbs, adages, and quotes from the depression, like “Eat it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.” Favourite poetry, price comparisons, advice for brides, and pick me ups like, “Clouds in our lives are sometimes sent to bring showers of blessings.’
When people cannot think about all the good things in life, there is a list in the book that just may encourage them to take the time to read it, relax, reflect, rejuvenate the memory, and delve into the stories of Newman’s neighbours.
