In 1934, quintuplets were born to a young rural farming couple, Elzire and Oliva Dionne , in a small homestead outside Callander, Ontario . The birth was attended by two midwives and Dr. Dafoe .

Little hope was held out for their survival , but a birth announcement was placed in the local North Bay paper. As the days went by, their care became entrusted to Louise de Kirline and was supervised by Dr. Dafoe .

When survival seemed to be a possibility, a great escalation of support and interest blossomed. They were taken away from their family and placed under the guardianship of the Ontario Government. From this time on they became a lucrative tourist attraction and industry .

The Quints became near and dear to the hearts of many throughout the world. They were celebrities during a time of economic depression, a fantasy life to be involved in from afar. As they grew and returned to their family , they matured into shy and protective teens , and interest still continued.

In early adulthood the fantasy began to unravel, first with Emilie's death in 1954 , then with failed marriages and the death of Marie in 1970 .

Survivors as babies , delightful as children , unified again in adulthood they continue to spark the interest of many as proven by their latest publication Family Secrets .