Shortly after moving to the Boston area many years ago, and as the leaves fell and the snow covered the lawns, I learned how each year a Christmas tree was delivered to the City of Boston as a gift of the people of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

Why the tree was sent, though, wasn’t we’ll communicated. And to be honest, the thought of pursuing the story was never in me.

After reading The Great Halifax Explosion: A World War I Story of Treachery, Tragedy, and Extraordinary Heroism by John U. Bacon, not only did I learn the reason for the gift of the season, but the sad and amazing story that lead up to this perennial gift. Interestingly, I received a copy of this book from my sister as a Christmas gift.

With all of what was new to me, my takeaways from this book were few, but deep.

The story of the devastation of Halifax – In 1917, two ships collided in the harbor in Halifax, one of the ships being stocked to the gills with artillery and explosives with a final destination of England to support their efforts in World War I. The explosion destroyed most all of Halifax and killed thousands, and with the determination of the survivors and outside help – including much from Boston - the city was rebuilt.

I had no idea – Even as a self-proclaimed history buff I had never heard this story, despite growing up in New England. Though I honestly can’t say I’m surprised.

I want to visit Halifax – As I was reading The Great Halifax Explosion, I felt like I was there, over 100 years ago in the Canadian port city. I have never been to Halifax, but after reading this story I want to visit.

The Great Halifax Explosion is a page-turner, a compelling 360 degrees of the stories of the people, places and events that surrounded Halifax and their relationship with the world over a century ago. It is a well-written, great read that would be loved by history buffs, as well as anyone likes a story of tragedy and triumph. Or anyone who has admired the beautiful Christmas tree that Halifax sends to Boston each year.

As I pass along all books I read, I couldn’t think of anyone better than my wife’s cousin, who is also a history buff, but with much, much more breadth and depth. I recall years back meeting him with my wife when he was visiting Boston, sitting at the Trident Bookstore on Newbury Street, talking about many things including history. It’s interesting how much of life comes full circle in many aspects.

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This is from The Hot Iron, a journal on business and technology by Mike Maddaloni.

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