Shawn Murphy

Once Upon a Berlin Time Shawn Murphy

This book is a compilation of some of the many wondrous works done by Mr. Paul (Poof) Tardiff. Poof is the local historian in the Berlin, New Hampshire area. His countless hours of research have brought him and his readers a little closer to understanding the full dynamics of the hard work, suffering, accomplishments, and heritage of the people of Berlin's days gone by. With that understanding comes a deeper appreciation for this little 'Paper City' nestled high atop the mountain range of northern New Hampshire. These stories first appeared in the 'Berlin Daily Sun' newspaper, one of two small edition papers that cover the events of the area. It was with good fortune that I met Poof and was able to start a working relationship with him. Getting his stories to a larger audience, spread around the world, was a goal I gladly shared with him as together we hurdled the obstacles of producing these works and getting them into a brighter light. Many Berlinites have wandered forth from this mountain home and have chosen to settle in points outside of the area. It is through the appearance of these stories on my website, www.du-nord.berlin.nh.us, that Poof has achieved a greater fame and familiarity with these readers. Whether local or distant, many Berlinites eagerly look forward to reading the next weekly story. A story to rekindle the spark of imagination and memory in the minds of the older folks, many of whom have been exposed to some of these events as they unfolded. They also light the fires of imagination and wonder in the minds of the newer generations, as they explore the heritage of this little city, which they call home. The addition of an interactive guest book on the site has proven that these stories are warranted and desired by those that were raised here. (And some that were not.) The entries we find in the guest book attest to the value of the service we provide. Week by week, a little more of Berlin's rich, colorful history is researched and shared for all