A good friend of ours, originally from Newfoundland, frequently passes on his Downhome magazines to us. They help us to remember our three year stay in St. John’s working with C.N. (1958-61). Enclosed is a record (more like a diary) of our experience during the events known now as ‘nine-eleven’. We are sending a snapshot of us taken at Ferryland the day before the attack. Little did we know how the world would change so radically in one day!

Memories That Never Die - A Week to Remember

In early September 2001, my husband and I were in St. John’s, Newfoundland, for a lawn bowling tournament. Rather than going at the end of the games, we decided to stay for a few days for some sightseeing. This is our story as recorded in a slightly jumbled diary that I kept during that memorable time.

Monday, September 10
We left the city with friends to travel along the “Irish Loop.” Missed the turn-off to Cape Spear but kept on to Bay Bulls, Witless Bay (saw fishermen filleting cod), Cape Broyle and Ferryland-Baltimore’s Mansion territory. So interesting, having read Wayne Johnston’s book. Had picture taken with beautiful Newfoundland dog. Stayed overnight at Down’s Inn. Lady told us Stuart McLean had stayed there. She was quite proud of that!

Tuesday, September 11
We continued along the Avalon Peninsula to Cape Race - a scary, winding road. It was here that the last message from the Titanic was received. Visitor centre closed for season. Later we stopped at a small store where three very upset women told us there had been a terrorist attack in New York. In shock, we quickly changed our plans and headed back to the city. Hotel staff said they had to keep all rooms for passengers from international flights. Our long wait in the lobby finally gained us a couple of rooms.

Wednesday, September 12
The struggle begins. We make two trips to the airport - no admittance.

Thursday, September 13
Our friends get out on Canada 3000 plane.

Friday, September 14
Hopes dashed again. Advised to come back on Saturday at 5:40 a.m. Calls from family are supportive. It feels like a nightmare. There may never be a safe place again. Becoming discouraged. Hotel staff very kind. Left Saturday with all baggage but lady at desk advised us not to give up our room in case we needed it again. Maybe she knows something we don’t. She was right! On returning later we found a note on the table from the maid saying “I knew you would be back.” Television and radio coverage startling and sad. New York looks like a war zone. Bus driver refused our money because he knew we were “stranded.” Strangers on the street called us “My Honey” and “My Darling.” These must be the kindest people in the world. We hear some flights are heading back to the U.S. – good news at last.

We watched a memorial service (from the St. John’s Confederation centre) on a television in a nearby fast food spot. Everyone stood at attention for Oh Canada, The Star Spangled Banner and The Ode To Newfoundland. Very touching and impressive!

Friday Night - Hurricane Erin - the least of our worries!

Saturday, September 15
Visited old railway station, saw Mile One Stadium and new Convention Centre. Rumour has it that nail clippers, knitting needles, and more are forbidden on planes. Bought a special envelope and sent a lot of our related items home. Am I being really smart or really weird? I can hardly wait to get home. My stomach feels yucky.

Sunday, September 16
We think we might get out today. Must get up at 3:45 a.m. Is it worth going to bed? Hotel staff wish us a fond farewell saying, “Remember, God loves you.” Arrive airport at 4:15. All flights cancelled! Still here at 2:30pm. Weary and discouraged. Long line-ups. Sorry for people traveling with children. Scary talk of “incidents” again. Finally give up at 5:30 p.m. after 14 long hours. Phoned home again. Booked into airport hotel for a good meal and a much needed rest.

Monday, September 17
Boarded Air Nova flight 8891 for Halifax. Paid super attention to emergency instructions. Made good connection to Moncton.

Thanks God! Thank God! HOME AT LAST!


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