Write a commentThe public is invited to join with residents of Springside at Seneca Hill on Thursday, October 17 at 1:00 for a presentation by Lee Ellen Hickey, author of the historical fiction, Girl in the Glass Coffin, The Tonkin Affairs.
The program is free of charge and Springside is fully handicapped accessible.
Springside is located at 10 County Route 45A, Oswego, NY 13126. Turn west onto County Route 45 from Route 481, take the first left, then the first right.
Hickey brings to life the true story of ten-year-old Virginia Tonkin who died in Oswego in the late nineteenth century and whose remains were kept for over a year in a glass covered coffin in her bedroom of the family home. Eventually, the authorities and the public’s talk prevailed upon the family to inter her remains in the Tonkin family mausoleum in Riverside Cemetery. But there is much more to the story.
According to the author, “The Tonkin family's controversial tale is one full of intrigue, tragedy, scandal, romance, betrayal, mystery and even murder. The opulence of their home and comfort of their luxurious lifestyles were overshadowed by the dark events that plagued them during the time they lived in the house known by local legend as the ‘Tonkin Mansion.’ A handsome millionaire playboy wreaks havoc, a real cold case is potentially solved, vicious rumors are put to rest, and the dark truth is brought to light.”
Hickey’s book has been critically acclaimed by local readers, including former Oswego mayor Billy Barlow, former Oswego County historian Justin White, Oswego Town historian George Demass, local author Jim Farfaglia, Springside activities director Vickie Smith, and numerous Springside residents.
The author will also lead a Girl in the Glass Coffin bus tour on Sunday, October 20 at 3:30 starting at the Riverside Cemetery. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.com or through the author’s Facebook page, Girl in the Glass Coffin: The Tonkin Affairs.
Hickey was born, raised, and still lives in Oswego County with her husband and family. She is the block leader for the Oswego Renaissance Association and member of the Oswego County Historical Society, Elim Grace Church, and the board of directors for Oswego County Opportunities.
Springside at Seneca Hill is an independent living residential community for seniors 55 or older who want to free themselves of the responsibilities of maintaining a house. Fully accessible apartments, duplexes, and cottages are available, along with a variety of services including prepared restaurant-style meals, housekeeping, laundry, lawn care, snow removal, garages, and maintenance services, depending upon the options chosen. Most residents find it considerably less expensive and much less work and stress than maintaining a private house.
Information is available and tours of Springside may be arranged by calling 315-343-5658 to schedule an appointment.
