The Theft of Baby Ily

A Short Story Inspired by True Events

Preface

The wooden docks at the port of Halifax, Nova Scotia, are saturated with the tears and footprints of immigrants who fled their homelands at the end of the nineteenth century in search of a better life in Canada. The trip was arduous and long, with hopefuls surviving unthinkable conditions in the bellies of ships that weaved through turbulent Atlantic waters. Sadly, many did not survive.

Inspired by true events, The Theft of Baby Ily is the fictional account of one Hungarian family determined to start life anew in our great nation. After enduring tremendous hardship for weeks of sea travel, the family is thrilled to be able to submit their official documents to Canadian Immigration authorities at the docks in Halifax. While the father is dealing with government officials, Baby Ily is ripped out of her mother’s arms.

The Theft of Baby Ily is just one story of the numerous pioneers who overcame adversities in order to pave the way for those of us who now enjoy life in this great land. May readers be encouraged to dig deeper into our Canadian heritage while paying homage to our predecessors.