In 1987, archaeologists working on a number of waterfront lots in Fort Erie, Ontario, discovered bones that turned out to be the remains of soldiers who had died during the American occupation of Fort Erie 173 years before. They had uncovered a U.S. military graveyard from the War of 1812.

The archaeological dig that followed attracted great public interest and media attention on both sides of the border. Historical research and scientific analysis of the bones combined to produce a remarkably detailed profile of anonymous victims in a half-forgotten conflict. The Snake Hill story culminated in a remarkable repatriation ceremony in which twenty-eight American soldiers were returned to their homeland for an honorary reburial.

Paul Litt is a historian at Carleton University in Ottawa. His account of John Turner’s political career is based on extensive research in the Turner papers and other archival collections, contemporary journalism, and scores of interviews with friends, family, and colleagues of John Turner. He also spent considerable time with Turner himself, talking with him about his early career in politics, his relationship with Trudeau, his decision to leave politics for nearly a decade, what prompted him to come back, and the challenge of rebuilding a Liberal party that pundits declared was finished as a political force in Canada.

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Ronald E. Williamson, as president to Archaeological Services Inc., directed the Snake Hill project. He is an archaeologist with a doctorate in anthropology from McGill University. Professor Joseph Whitehorne served in the United States Army for twenty-five years, mostly as a historian. Now a historical consultant, he also teaches history at Lord Fairfax Community college, Middletown, Viriginia.

Ronald E. Williamson's profile page

Professor Joseph Whitehorne served in the United States Army for twenty-five years, mostly as a historian. Now a historical consultant, he also teaches history at Lord Fairfax Community college, Middletown, Viriginia.

Joseph W.A. Whitehorne's profile page

"A fascinating examination not only of an important historical event, but also of the rigours of military life and medical practices in the early nineteenth century."

Dundurn Castle