Join author Michael Dupuis at KFPL for historic Halifax Explosion talk

The next instalment of the Kingston Frontenac Public Library (KFPL) Author Talks will focus on the Halifax Explosion with author Michael Dupuis.

The Halifax Explosion was one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history, killing thousands and causing widespread devastation, the library noted. Its impact on Canadian history and the resilience of its people in the face of tragedy make it a story that is both poignant and relevant today — and a story that will be brought to life by author, historian and former educator Michael Dupuis in an upcoming presentation.

According to a release from KFPL, 2,000 people died and 6,000 were left without homes when a munitions ship, the Mont-Blanc, exploded in Halifax Harbour on December 6, 1917. Dupuis’s book, Bearing Witness: Journalists, Record Keepers And The 1917 Halifax Explosion, tells the story of the disaster through eyewitness accounts.

The presentation will take place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Apr. 15, 2023, at the Isabel Turner Branch. KFPL said that registration is required to attend this event. Register online at https://calendar.kfpl.ca/event/7998172 or by phone at 613-549-8888.

“Through the words of those who were there, Michael Dupuis will bring to life the events of the Halifax Explosion and give us perspective on how it fits into our larger history,” said Jake Miller, Librarian, Adult Programming. “Michael will discuss how and why certain aspects were reported or emphasized and share fresh insight into this pivotal event.”

As a historian, Dupuis has extensively researched Canadian media and labour history, according to the library. His next talk with KFPL will be about the Winnipeg General Strike, and will take place on Saturday, Apr. 22, 2023 at 2 p.m. Learn more at https://calendar.kfpl.ca/event/7998222