Local author and journalist Ed Arnold has released his latest book, Peterborough People to Remember, a collection that shines a light on 12 individuals whose remarkable contributions have largely flown under the radar. The 305-page book dives deep into the legacies of local figures, spanning from the 1800s to the present, showcasing their achievements, trials, and lasting impacts on the city and beyond.
Arnold’s deep dive into local history is informed by years of research. He says there are thousands of people who should be recognized for their efforts but from past research he had done, he chose 12 for this book. He says he kept coming across these 12 names over the years and began taking notes, revealing that much of the groundwork for the book was done over the course of a decade, though the bulk of the project came together within the last year and a half. Arnold says he hopes his book will inspire others to find ways to remember the many captivating people of our city.
Arnold’s newest release provides readers with a rare look at figures who, despite their remarkable accomplishments, remain largely unrecognized within the city. Among these is a Peterborough-born hockey player named Frank Heffernan, who not only captained the Toronto Maple Leafs but was also part owner of the team at the same time. He even had a brief stint behind the bench during his playing days, making him the only man in NHL history to have been a player, coach, and owner simultaneously; yet somehow his story has surprisingly faded into relative obscurity in his hometown.
The city’s rich lacrosse history is also represented in the book through the story of Bobby Allan, a legendary figure whose legacy is unmatched. Allan revolutionized the sport by not only excelling as a player but also influencing the rules and style of the game at both the national and international levels. Arnold suggests that Peterborough could honour Allan’s legacy by naming a street after him, alongside Roger Neilson Way, as a tribute to his contributions to lacrosse.
Art enthusiasts will discover the story of Katherine Wallis, a world-class artist, celebrated more in France than in her own country. Despite her international acclaim, her name has not achieved the same recognition within the Canadian art scene, making her story one of particular interest to those eager to learn about Peterborough’s overlooked cultural icons.
Arnold’s book also delves into the lives of two Peterborough natives, George Cox and Joseph Flavelle, who became Canada’s wealthiest individuals during their lifetimes. These men, who rose to prominence and amassed fortunes, returned to Peterborough’s legacy through philanthropy and significant community influence.
Readers will also learn the amazing story of Frank O’Connor, aka The Candy Man, who was the founder of an international candy empire. His climb to the top is a fascinating journey, with even more intrigue upon his death, as he left a sizable portion of his estate to the Catholic Church—a fact that Arnold uncovered through meticulous research of his will.
For history buffs, the stories of six local war veterans hold special significance, especially with Remembrance Day on the horizon. The book highlights the courage and sacrifice of these soldiers, including Peterborough’s first officer casualty of the First World War, Major George Bennett; the only local woman casualty, Marion Overend; and the city’s youngest war victim, Anthony Schiarizza.
Two brothers whose father, R.B. Rogers, designed Peterborough’s iconic lift lock are also prominently featured. Heber and Harry fought in the same war, a testament to the deep-rooted connections between Peterborough families and Canadian military history. The Rogers name still carries a lot of weight in the city, with several landmarks bearing the name. Their story is a remarkable one.
One particularly fascinating profile is of Tony Schiarizza, a soldier who became part of the famed U.S.-Canada elite fighting force known as the Devil’s Brigade. This joint special forces unit, a precursor to modern-day elite military groups like the Green Berets, gained worldwide fame. In the book, Arnold recounts the extraordinary bravery of the Peterborough man who was wounded multiple times during his service, only to be injured again in a hunting accident after returning home.
Arnold says reading the diaries of the soldiers blew him away, in terms of what they had to endure and go through, and while writing those stories it really hit home as to just how lucky we are right now.
Arnold’s hope is that Peterborough People to Remember will inspire further efforts to preserve local history, whether through books, articles, or family diaries. There are many exceptional people with ties to Peterborough and their stories should be told so that they will never be forgotten. Through Peterborough People to Remember, Arnold has shed light on 12 of these unsung heroes of Peterborough, giving them a well-deserved place in the city’s collective memory. He emphasizes that this project is not just a look back at historical figures, but also an effort to ensure that their stories continue to be told.
The limited-edition book is available for purchase at Sullivan’s Pharmacy, The Peterborough Petes Souvenir Store, and Happenstance in Lakefield. Those interested can also request copies via email, at perfectseason46@gmail.com, for local delivery.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)