By Sylvia McNicoll

Revenge on the Fly

2014

“Kill the fly, Save the baby!” Hamilton Spectator 1912

In 1912 twelve year-old William Alton sails with his Dad on the Empress of Ireland bound for new opportunities in Canada, leaving behind the graves of his mom and baby sister. A job for Dad, an education for Will and no more disease! Unfortunately another baby on board the ship succumbs to summer complaint and Uncle Charlie falls ill with typhoid; why does everyone get sick and die? On Will’s second day in school, the city health officer, Dr. Roberts, gives him the answer. One tiny little insect spreads germs and death. Will and his classmates declare war on the fly.

Based on the true story of how children in Hamilton caught 1.5 million flies over a three week period, Revenge on the Fly celebrates the courageous and entrepreneurial spirit of the immigrant.