"Foundations" tells, in the authentic voice of the man who lived them, tales of the colourful men who worked for and with Bermingham Construction in the years from its founding in 1897 to the beginning of the second world war. It includes accounts of the building of the Crows Nest Pass for the CPR, the construction of the Sault Ste Marie locks, and the incredible ingenuity that led to finally protecting Goderich and its harbour with a breakwater that could withstand Lake Huron's fury. Central to the stories is "Big Bill" Forrest - Ontario's Paul Bunyan, who formed a life long partnership with William Bermingham. Bermingham provided the creative and precise engineering skills, while Big Bill brought massive strength, generosity and charisma. Their partnership agreement also stipulated that Big Bill would do the drinking and swearing for both of them, as he was expert. There are also tales of dramatic and courageous rescues and salvages from the fierce storms of the Great Lakes.