My first exposure to the online community was back in the ’80s, using my 1200 baud modem to dial into the many local BBSes (bulletin board systems). It was great to discover that a fellow named Jason Scott is not only compiling a master list of BBSes; he’s actually making a documentary about them.
There’s even a list of Toronto-area BBSes from the 1980s, and I remember several of these. The one I was most active on, though, isn’t listed. The Powder Keg was focussed on creative writing, and a bunch of us actually got together a few times for parties and readings, probably around 1990-1991. I’d be interested to know if there was anyone out there who remembers this community? I’d like to add it to the list, but I don’t think I have enough details. I recall a couple of people who were active on the board (Ian Firla, Darren Wershler-Henry), but don’t know who the sysadmin was, the years of operation, or even the dialup number.
Hopefully, this entry will serve as Google bait for anyone interested.
I am a former member of the Powder Keg, although I have no idea what handle I would have used. Something related to Gordon Korman’s character Sidney Rampulsky, if memory serves me.
Although it’s not exactly creative writing, I have managed to have a book published (a technical book for Java programmers) and I’m sure that some of the experience I gained there contributed to developing my writing skills, such as they are.
Very neat to find you!
Heh heh, I think it’s great that The Powder Keg is still active in the minds of its former members. I was a regular for a couple of years way back when, although for the life of me I can’t remember my nick. I only ever attended one get-together, on St. Clair West somewhere, but posted stories (and critiques, naturally) pretty regularly.
Thanks for posting this!