The book,  A Voice from the Past by J. Arthur Sheil is a memoir that explores his father’s life experiences, spanning from childhood to adulthood. It begins with his early years, marked by the loss of his mother and the challenges of growing up with a hearing impairment. The narrative progresses as it depicts his experiences working on a dairy farm, including tasks such as picking up milk, and his time in a logging camp, where he took on the role of camp butcher.

Family plays a central role in the book, as Sheil details his relationships with his wife, Lily, and their children. The narrative showcases Sheil’s transition from farmer to carpenter and reflects on the evolving agricultural environment in the Dryden area.  A Voice from the Past sheds light on Sheil’s life struggles, encompassing childhood hardships, adult responsibilities, family dynamics, and work experiences. It provides readers rich experiences and reflections on life’s trials and triumphs, including personal tragedies.

A Window into Rural Living

Experience the simplicity, hardships, and beauty that define the essence of rural living a century ago in  A Voice from the Past.