‘Evil in their hearts’
Clyde Macdonald’s latest book tells of sins, success and a Supreme decision
Retired judge Clyde Macdonald saw plenty of lawbreakers come before him during his time on the bench. But he’d would classify very few as evil.
Most people who appear in court, he said, are those who have used poor judgment — often influenced by alcohol or drugs. But three murder cases he writes about in his latest book, Nova Scotians In and Out of Court, don’t fit that category.
“What struck me was the evil that lurked in the hearts of these men who committed murder.”
The cases took place in 1815, 1838 and 1933 and are chronicled in Macdonald’s 15th book, which will be launched Saturday, Aug. 11, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the New Glasgow library.
The book carries a variety of stories from notable Nova Scotians to the most heinous crimes.
This publication puts Macdonald on par, in terms of books published, with James Cameron, a widely recognized historian in Pictou County. Macdonald said he never thought in a hundred years he’d have this many historical
books to his name, considering himself more of a history enthusiast. But he’s been steadily turning out books.
“As soon as I get one to the printer, I start the next one,” he said.
Macdonald thanked those who have aided him in his research and the Pictou County Roots Society which organizes launches for his books, proceeds of which are donated to the Roots Society.
“Writing a book is, as you might deduce, a lonely task,” he said. “When you work on a chapter with someone that is associated with the topic or the person, then it’s very interesting to do.”
Three people worked closely with him on this book for some chapters. Former judge David Milner of Halifax assisted with the story of Dr. W. Herdman who was struck and killed by a train, leading to a case that went all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada.
Lois Thompson of Woodstock, N.B., provided information about her great-uncle Alex Copeland. Adrian Pearson, the former town clerk of Stellarton, provided information about the time he received the health and lifestyle award in Ottawa in 1977 and some of the notables he met, including Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.