For half a century, Eva Kennedy was at the centre of things in the small eastern Ontario village of Cumberland. From her home at the crossroads, she raised a family of six, assisted her husband who was the township clerk, and ran a private maternity hospital. She also found time to play the church organ, comfort friends old and new, and do what needed to be done. She was touched by events that defined the 20th century. And she wrote. She wrote about life on a farm in the dawn of a new century, nursing studies in far off New York City, and the joys and struggles of married life during the Great Depression. In writing, she found some solace for the fears that accompanied her sons to war, and contentment as her children made their own way in a brave new world. Eventually, this need to record provided a place to seek peace with the mysteries of aging. Eva Kennedy has left us a rare legacy. Her diaries and letters, preserved and annotated by her daughter Joyce Kennedy, offer a remarkable insight into an extraordinary age. She was, indeed, a most uncommon woman. "Eva, eloquent, vibrant, admirable. An amazing woman. An awesome story." Jeannie Smith, Secretary Treasurer and Editor of The Caboose, Cumberland Township Historical Society "A memorable journey through the century in the company of a wonderful and fascinating family. Impossible to put this book down until the final word is read." Raymond Stone, CD, Communications Consultant and Radio Personality "Joyce paints a loving picture of a truly unique woman." Phil McNeely, MPP, Ottawa Orleans
