Roxanne searching for submarines during WW2

 

                                 

 

Who was Roxanne?

 We know one thing for sure; a myth originated in the Canso, NS area during WW2 about a local prostitute who was bemoaning the downturn in business since most of the available men had gone overseas to fight. An idea occurred to Roxanne to spread a rumor that a German sub had been spotted off the shores of Canso, Nova Scotia. This caused great concern since the Commercial Cable building in near by Hazel hill was a major communications link with Europe. The rumor quickly spread up through the ranks and extra Canadian troops were sent in to protect the facility. Naturally, business improved for Roxanne, and her myth grew after the war. I named her Roxanne after the famous pop song by the Police - “Roxanne”.

The painting is an oil on panel, 18" x 13", with an antique frame restored by yours truly. 

 Steven Rhude



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