Local author famous for “Curse of Oak Island” passes on

We lost a good man, seen often on TV and just about everywhere, including in Corry.

The community has lost a familiar and respected figure with the passing of James “Jim” McQuiston, a local author and historian widely known for his appearances on the History Channel series The Curse of Oak Island. McQuiston, remembered as a thoughtful researcher, storyteller and musician, leaves behind a legacy that reached far beyond television and into the communities he served throughout his life.

McQuiston became a recognised face to viewers of The Curse of Oak Island through his work as an independent researcher and historian, frequently appearing alongside the show’s onsite experts to discuss theories, documents and historical connections linked to Nova Scotia’s most enduring mystery. His calm delivery and deep knowledge made him a valued contributor to the programme and a respected voice among Oak Island enthusiasts worldwide.

Away from television, McQuiston was a prolific writer. Over the course of his career, he authored around ten books, many focused on the history, folklore and unexplained stories of Nova Scotia. His work reflected a lifelong fascination with the region’s past and an ability to present complex ideas in an accessible, engaging way. He was also a popular public speaker, regularly invited to events and gatherings where he shared stories drawn from years of research and travel.

Locally, McQuiston was well known for his work at The Corry Journal, where he spent time both part-time and full-time as a printer. Colleagues remember him as reliable, good-humoured and deeply committed to his craft. His presence in the newsroom and print shop was marked by quiet professionalism and a genuine interest in the people around him.

In addition to writing and historical research, McQuiston was a musician, another outlet through which he expressed his creativity. Friends and acquaintances recall that his wide range of interests—music, history, publishing and storytelling—reflected a curious and energetic mind that remained active throughout his life.

A journal file photograph often shared among Oak Island followers shows McQuiston in conversation with Charles Barkhouse and Doug Crowell, fellow historians associated with the Oak Island project. The image captures what many remember best about him: a man engaged in thoughtful discussion, eager to exchange ideas and perspectives.

News of his passing has prompted tributes from fans of The Curse of Oak Island, readers of his books and members of the local community who knew him through his work and personal connections. Many have spoken of his generosity with knowledge and his willingness to take time to explain historical details to anyone who asked.

While McQuiston’s work brought him a measure of public recognition, those closest to him emphasise that he never sought attention for its own sake. His focus remained on learning, sharing and preserving stories that might otherwise be forgotten.

As the community remembers James McQuiston, his contributions endure in the books he wrote, the programmes he appeared on and the many conversations he inspired. He is remembered not only as a figure linked to a popular television series, but as a dedicated historian, author and local craftsman whose work connected people to history in meaningful ways.

He will be missed by colleagues, friends and audiences who valued his insight, creativity and steady presence.