Emma L.

Vermilion Bay, Ontario

Other

The Flying Bandit

My project is on Ken Leishman who was a modern day Robin Hood. He pulled of the largest gold heist in Canadian history and led the biggest jail break in Manitoba’s history. After his criminal life he moved to Red Lake, ON. I always thought that criminals were bad people, but after learning about Ken Leishman I discovered that he was a man with good intention. His plans were to better his life as well as him families. Even though initially his methods were wrong he reformed and became a productive part of society.

 

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

Before I started this project I had never heard of Ken Leishman. After researching the topic I now realize the impact it made on my community. When presenting at the regional fair, I met many friends of Ken and his family; it was interesting to hear their stories and to add to my knowledge.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

I always thought that criminals were bad people, but after learning about Ken Leishman I discovered that he was a man with good intention. His plans were to better his life as well as him families. Even though initially his methods were wrong he reformed and became a productive part of society.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

Ken's childhood was difficult. When he was seven his parents divorced and he was sent to his grandparent’s farm. He worked and lived there until he was fifteen. Ken was always a hard worker and never had the childhood that I was fortunate enough to have.