News Snippets from our school's past.
Updated 30.04.2024
Updated 30.04.2024
Mr Hamilton bowls in the Staff v School Cricket Match in 1966
Photo: Batey
Table of Contents
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1. 1931: A Pitch for the Pitch
2. Mr. Philip Crossland 3. 1935: Hemsworth Mining College 4. 1967: A reaction to the situation 5. 1949 : A school constant - CHANGE |
6. 1959: The Staff play "Shadow and Substance"
7. 1948: A drawing with insight. |
1. 1931: A Pitch for the Pitch
Hard times
Hard times
Ald. G. Price, J.P. presided at a Governors' meeting at the end of February 1931 when a letter was received from the Headmaster apologising for his absence from duty. Illness had forced him, and also other members of staff, to take time off, but he stated that had he been present at that meeting, he would have pressed for further action to be taken about the provision of a Pavilion and a water tank on the school playing field. He pointed out that it was two years since these items had been promised, and nothing had been done. If they were to have water on the cricket ground ready for the 1931 season, the tank should be installed at once. It seems contrary that the previous problem on the cricket pitch, highlighted in 1929, was that of "laying water". Now it would seem that the need was for water to be introduced to the pitch!
Mr Jenkinson, the school's first Headmaster with his Staff.
Mr Jenkinson retire in the July of that year. He was replaced by Mr Hamilton.
Mr Jenkinson retire in the July of that year. He was replaced by Mr Hamilton.
Back Row L-R: Mr. Hamilton (Art), Mr. Hyde, Mr. Manning, Mr. Shiells, Mr. Crossland, Mr. Storer, Mr. Austin, 8, Mr. Collette, Mr. Scourfield, Mr, Nelson
Front Row L-R: 1, Miss Bromley, Miss Nicholson, Miss. Prince, Miss Shortridge, Mr. Jenkinson, Miss Kenward, Miss Harrison, 9, 10, Miss Walker
Front Row L-R: 1, Miss Bromley, Miss Nicholson, Miss. Prince, Miss Shortridge, Mr. Jenkinson, Miss Kenward, Miss Harrison, 9, 10, Miss Walker
Mrs. Dooley proposed that the Education Authority should be urged to act immediately on this matter, and then the Clerk, Mr. Charles Crossley, was directed to convey the sympathy of the Governors to the Headmaster and staff who were ill. A short time after this local bout of illness came more serious health news about the author, Arnold Bennett, who died in Paris at the end of March when he drank the local water to prove it was safe to drink - but was poisoned. It is an indication of the economic straits experienced by the County Authority at this time that it took six months for the Governors to realise that they were not going to receive the tank which they had asked for, and so in July 1931 they resolved to supply a hose and tap, costing £20, instead of a pump and cistern estimated at £99 / 10s / 0d.
Sheila
2. Mr. Philip Crossland, Senior Master at Hemsworth Grammar School
Mr. Philip Crossland
Mr. Crossland was a Senior Master at Hemsworth Grammar School until his retirement at the end of the summer term in 1950. Mr. Crossland, whose passing came as a shock to his many friends and former students in the Hemsworth District, was 59. He graduated at Leeds University and became a teacher at Hemsworth Grammar School on September 20th. 1922, a year after the school which was known then as Hemsworth Secondary School was opened.
For a few months after his retirement - from April 26th to July 31st, 1954 - he returned to the school to help out as a temporary master, and since then he had frequently visited the school. He was last there at the annual sports day in July and was able to chat with many of his former pupils, some of whom are now parents of present scholars.
Mr. Crossland taught History throughout his 28 years at the school and in its earlier years he also taught English and Mathematics. He introduced rugby to the school and with his colleagues on the staff, swung the school over from association football which was played in the first two years of its life.
A service was held at St. John's Church, Roundhay. Mr. R. W. Hamilton, the Headmaster, represented the Grammar School which sent a spray of flowers.
September 14th. 1957
For a few months after his retirement - from April 26th to July 31st, 1954 - he returned to the school to help out as a temporary master, and since then he had frequently visited the school. He was last there at the annual sports day in July and was able to chat with many of his former pupils, some of whom are now parents of present scholars.
Mr. Crossland taught History throughout his 28 years at the school and in its earlier years he also taught English and Mathematics. He introduced rugby to the school and with his colleagues on the staff, swung the school over from association football which was played in the first two years of its life.
A service was held at St. John's Church, Roundhay. Mr. R. W. Hamilton, the Headmaster, represented the Grammar School which sent a spray of flowers.
September 14th. 1957
Mr. Philip Crossland, whose sudden death last October in tragic circumstances is deplored by all who knew him, was one of the first assistants who joined my staff in 1922. I remember that the first time we met in Wakefield I was at once impressed by his modest bearing and his obvious desire to give of his best as a member of my staff.
This impression I retained through all the years of our association. As a teacher of History he excelled in a mastery of this subject, a clear presentation of the facts, and a lively sense of humour which enabled him to arouse and hold the interest of his pupils. His success as a teacher was reflected in the examination results. Like Mr. Dickinson, whom he succeeded as Senior Master, he gave invaluable help and support to me in the difficult days of the School's early growth, maintaining excellent discipline over the boys and undertaking readily any task I put upon him. He threw himself with energy into games and other School activities, even Morris Dancing which he took up at my request and in which he displayed the same joyful enthusiasm. To the end he remained a faithful friend and helper, and he leaves to the School an example of devoted service for all to follow.
A.G. Jenkinson, HSS, HGS Headmaster 1921-37
This impression I retained through all the years of our association. As a teacher of History he excelled in a mastery of this subject, a clear presentation of the facts, and a lively sense of humour which enabled him to arouse and hold the interest of his pupils. His success as a teacher was reflected in the examination results. Like Mr. Dickinson, whom he succeeded as Senior Master, he gave invaluable help and support to me in the difficult days of the School's early growth, maintaining excellent discipline over the boys and undertaking readily any task I put upon him. He threw himself with energy into games and other School activities, even Morris Dancing which he took up at my request and in which he displayed the same joyful enthusiasm. To the end he remained a faithful friend and helper, and he leaves to the School an example of devoted service for all to follow.
A.G. Jenkinson, HSS, HGS Headmaster 1921-37
Mr. Philip Crossland
I like to think, and I do believe, that Philip Crossland was my friend from my very first day at Hemsworth Grammar School until the day he retired. I always found him to be a loyal, conscientious, cheerful and ever willing colleague. He gave to me all the help a new Headmaster could wish for, and as the years passed, our relationship grew into one of friendship and, on my side, a steady and increasing appreciation of all he meant to me and to the School.
In the years 1940-1945, the years of the Second World War, we worked together even more closely. By day he was my Senior Master, at night he was my Adjutant in our A.T.C. Squadron. Except for the few hours we needed for sleep, we worked and played together by day and by night. At weekends and even during our so-called holidays, together we went on courses organised by the R.A.F. We studied, we drilled, we even flew, and always we were as one. For many years he was a stalwart of the Staff Cricket XI; a certain run-getter and as likely as anyone to upset a partnership with his deceptively easy swing bowling.
His retirement was a heavy blow to the School. Everyone missed his cheerful presence and his infectious chuckle. His death was a shock to us all. I am glad I have known him; I am proud to think of him as my friend. We had many splendid hours together. In my time, I have had, and still have many colleagues whom it is a delight to remember. As to nearly all these who knew him, so to me, Philip Crossland will always be one of the best of schoolmasters. Most human in his understanding and his sympathy, whether towards colleagues or pupils, he was a grand person to know. I was fortunate to have so fine a man for my Senior Master, and doubly fortunate in that he was my friend.
R.W. Hamilton, HGS Headmaster 1937-67.
Text written in 1958
I like to think, and I do believe, that Philip Crossland was my friend from my very first day at Hemsworth Grammar School until the day he retired. I always found him to be a loyal, conscientious, cheerful and ever willing colleague. He gave to me all the help a new Headmaster could wish for, and as the years passed, our relationship grew into one of friendship and, on my side, a steady and increasing appreciation of all he meant to me and to the School.
In the years 1940-1945, the years of the Second World War, we worked together even more closely. By day he was my Senior Master, at night he was my Adjutant in our A.T.C. Squadron. Except for the few hours we needed for sleep, we worked and played together by day and by night. At weekends and even during our so-called holidays, together we went on courses organised by the R.A.F. We studied, we drilled, we even flew, and always we were as one. For many years he was a stalwart of the Staff Cricket XI; a certain run-getter and as likely as anyone to upset a partnership with his deceptively easy swing bowling.
His retirement was a heavy blow to the School. Everyone missed his cheerful presence and his infectious chuckle. His death was a shock to us all. I am glad I have known him; I am proud to think of him as my friend. We had many splendid hours together. In my time, I have had, and still have many colleagues whom it is a delight to remember. As to nearly all these who knew him, so to me, Philip Crossland will always be one of the best of schoolmasters. Most human in his understanding and his sympathy, whether towards colleagues or pupils, he was a grand person to know. I was fortunate to have so fine a man for my Senior Master, and doubly fortunate in that he was my friend.
R.W. Hamilton, HGS Headmaster 1937-67.
Text written in 1958
Mr Crossland's Form of 1923-24
Mr Crossland's Sixth Form of 1924-25
Back Row L-R: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Front Row L-R: 1, Marion Finch, 3, Mr. Crossland, Vera Hammill, Freda Swain, Emma Bate
Front Row L-R: 1, Marion Finch, 3, Mr. Crossland, Vera Hammill, Freda Swain, Emma Bate
3. 1935: Hemsworth Mining College
The building was constructed of Brackenhill stone facings with a brick lining, and the roof was covered with green Westmorland slates. All the rooms were formed with concrete ceilings so that a second storey could easily be added without inconvenience. The heating was by means of a low-pressure hot water installation.
On the ground floor there was a science laboratory, a dark room, preparation room, classroom, drawing office and staff room, and in the basement a metal workshop.
After Mrs. Dooley had formally opened the Institute, the company adjourned to the Hall of the Grammar School, where County Councillor W.M. Hyman, vice-chairman of the West Riding Education Committee, handed to Mr. W.L. Whittle, the chairman of the Hemsworth District Education Sub-committee, the key of the new building.
Accepting the key, Mr. Whittle said he welcomed the new Institute as a “mining man”, teacher and lecturer, and research scientist in coal. Not wishing to dwell too much on the recent colliery catastrophes in their area (at South Kirkby and North Gawber) he thought that such disasters emphasised the need for further study. The question of spontaneous combustion was then still only half understood, and only by study could a solution to that problem be found. The opportunity of having such an Institute had been brought about by the miners themselves, for the money had come from the Miners’ Welfare Fund, which was doing wonderful work in the colliery areas. He hoped that the local parents would encourage their boys to attend.
Mr. E. Walker, Assistant Education Officer for the West Riding, then spoke his thanks to the Miners’ Welfare Fund for “that charming little building”, saying that he wanted to see at least 100 students at the new Institute, out of whom he would like to see 50 go on to the technical colleges at Barnsley, Wakefield or Doncaster.
Mr. G.W. Moses, the Headmaster of the Institute, described the available courses to be taken there, saying that although it was primarily a mining centre, in addition there were one or two single subject classes of a non-vocational character, such as Drama, Play Reading and Craft Work. There was also a Commercial Course, and probably one in French. He hoped that the people of Hemsworth would rally round the Institute. Rounding off the speeches, Coun. Hyman stated that if ever they were going to “get away from alarums and excursions of war and the horrors that went with it “, then education was the only way of bringing sanity to the world.
On the ground floor there was a science laboratory, a dark room, preparation room, classroom, drawing office and staff room, and in the basement a metal workshop.
After Mrs. Dooley had formally opened the Institute, the company adjourned to the Hall of the Grammar School, where County Councillor W.M. Hyman, vice-chairman of the West Riding Education Committee, handed to Mr. W.L. Whittle, the chairman of the Hemsworth District Education Sub-committee, the key of the new building.
Accepting the key, Mr. Whittle said he welcomed the new Institute as a “mining man”, teacher and lecturer, and research scientist in coal. Not wishing to dwell too much on the recent colliery catastrophes in their area (at South Kirkby and North Gawber) he thought that such disasters emphasised the need for further study. The question of spontaneous combustion was then still only half understood, and only by study could a solution to that problem be found. The opportunity of having such an Institute had been brought about by the miners themselves, for the money had come from the Miners’ Welfare Fund, which was doing wonderful work in the colliery areas. He hoped that the local parents would encourage their boys to attend.
Mr. E. Walker, Assistant Education Officer for the West Riding, then spoke his thanks to the Miners’ Welfare Fund for “that charming little building”, saying that he wanted to see at least 100 students at the new Institute, out of whom he would like to see 50 go on to the technical colleges at Barnsley, Wakefield or Doncaster.
Mr. G.W. Moses, the Headmaster of the Institute, described the available courses to be taken there, saying that although it was primarily a mining centre, in addition there were one or two single subject classes of a non-vocational character, such as Drama, Play Reading and Craft Work. There was also a Commercial Course, and probably one in French. He hoped that the people of Hemsworth would rally round the Institute. Rounding off the speeches, Coun. Hyman stated that if ever they were going to “get away from alarums and excursions of war and the horrors that went with it “, then education was the only way of bringing sanity to the world.
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The Senior Mining Institution Centre opened at Hemsworth on Saturday. The photograph gives an exterior view of the building, a snapshot of the opening ceremony (performed by Councillor Mrs Dooley, J.P., of Hemsworth) and a group which includes County Councillor W.M. Hyman, Vice-Chairman of the West Riding Education Committee; Mrs Hyman, Mrs Dooley, Mr W.L. Whittle, chairman of the Hemsworth District Education Sub-committee; Mr. G.W. Moses, headmaster of the Centre, County Councillor A. Flavell, and others.
Sheila
4. 1967: A reaction to the situation
This year, perhaps above all others, has been a year of change. There have been years when more members of staff have left us but there can have been few when we have felt so great a sense of loss. Miss Alliot left us and moved to Scotland with her husband, Mr. Hudson moved to York and, after many years of faithful service as Mr Hamilton's Secretary, Miss. Blake retired. They all worked tirelessly for school and will be missed by us all. We are, however, happy to welcome to the school Miss. Jackson, MIle. Béraud, Mr. Waters, Mr. Owens and Mr. Walsh. We offer too our congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Plummer on their marriage during this year.
Miss Alliot
Miss Jackson
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Mr Owens
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Mr Walsh
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Mr and Mrs Plummer
Of course, the greatest change and one that is causing some anxiety among us, is the re-organisation of the school. Although we are not yet comprehensive the adaptation of the premises, for a comprehensive intake is very much in evidence. The grounds have been ripped, holes torn in walls and outbuildings razed to the ground. No one, however progressive, can see the demolition of trees and the smashing of old stone without some sense of sadness, and it is hard to accept progress as something good when it manifests itself in the destruction of beauty. For many pupils, past and present, the grounds of this school have been a place of quiet and peace. They have exercised an influence over us, and have become part of us. It seems a poor exchange when all we are likely to have in their place is cold, streamlined concrete and glass.
With the destruction of the grounds our identity will pass. Our pupils must learn allegiance to another school and our old scholars will have lost a link with the past. It seems that we are old and must make way for a new world - we are obsolete.
Even so, we may regret and question our passing. The nation-wide re-organisation of secondary education is not simply a matter of education. Its educational advantages are unproven and therefore open to doubt. It is perhaps more clearly to be understood as one small part of a much wider revolution, an attempt to level society, to make sure that all men share as equally as possible the benefits and opportunities available.
That all men should be fellows is clearly a laudable aim and it is morally right. If this re-organisation can make our future generations more at one than they have been in the past and if it can make education more effective and democratic, then it will have been justified. Even so, it smacks of a gamble and the stakes are high.
The desire for equality, which is the deep motive of comprehensive education, is a strange and dangerous virtue. If a man of wealth volunteers to give up his riches for the good of others, his action is noble and selfless - he gains a kind of dignity from it. It is quite another matter for a man who has nothing to claim as his right the property of his neighbour - he may produce his philosophical arguments but he is known for a thief. To desire equality is not of itself a virtue; that can only be determined by the motive.
Equality has been called for and has of political necessity been granted. It is now for those who have made this claim to consider their motives. Is their equality a sharing of their child’s opportunity with their neighbours’ children, or is it the jealous destruction of a system in which their neighbours’ children merited and achieved success?
In all this one thing is certain - that Hemsworth Grammar School will cease to exist and a great many people will be the sadder for it.
Editorial Committee
With the destruction of the grounds our identity will pass. Our pupils must learn allegiance to another school and our old scholars will have lost a link with the past. It seems that we are old and must make way for a new world - we are obsolete.
Even so, we may regret and question our passing. The nation-wide re-organisation of secondary education is not simply a matter of education. Its educational advantages are unproven and therefore open to doubt. It is perhaps more clearly to be understood as one small part of a much wider revolution, an attempt to level society, to make sure that all men share as equally as possible the benefits and opportunities available.
That all men should be fellows is clearly a laudable aim and it is morally right. If this re-organisation can make our future generations more at one than they have been in the past and if it can make education more effective and democratic, then it will have been justified. Even so, it smacks of a gamble and the stakes are high.
The desire for equality, which is the deep motive of comprehensive education, is a strange and dangerous virtue. If a man of wealth volunteers to give up his riches for the good of others, his action is noble and selfless - he gains a kind of dignity from it. It is quite another matter for a man who has nothing to claim as his right the property of his neighbour - he may produce his philosophical arguments but he is known for a thief. To desire equality is not of itself a virtue; that can only be determined by the motive.
Equality has been called for and has of political necessity been granted. It is now for those who have made this claim to consider their motives. Is their equality a sharing of their child’s opportunity with their neighbours’ children, or is it the jealous destruction of a system in which their neighbours’ children merited and achieved success?
In all this one thing is certain - that Hemsworth Grammar School will cease to exist and a great many people will be the sadder for it.
Editorial Committee
5. 1948-1949: A school constant - CHANGE
Marion Roberts, U6S
Marion Roberts, U6S
This year finds us one year closer to the breaking up of our small community and one year further away from that glorious day in 1921 when Mr. Talbot first opened the doors of the new Secondary School.
Mr. Talbot and Archbishop Holgate - the founder of the first Hemsworth Grammar School in 1548 - gave their names to the first two houses of our school. When we look back from the comfortable well-run school we know today, it is hard to visualise the obstacles which lay in the paths of those first ‘Young Hilmians.” In the first school magazine we read, “The girls have a field for Hockey, rough at present but capable, with plenty of rolling, of becoming quite a fair ground,” and, “We hope also before long to have a wireless listening-in installation. Then we look forward to hearing the real thing.” It is a very good thing to look back through the early records of the school. Far too many of us don’t realise what a grand history we must live up to. Are we doing enough for the school? Can we do enough?
Mr. Talbot and Archbishop Holgate - the founder of the first Hemsworth Grammar School in 1548 - gave their names to the first two houses of our school. When we look back from the comfortable well-run school we know today, it is hard to visualise the obstacles which lay in the paths of those first ‘Young Hilmians.” In the first school magazine we read, “The girls have a field for Hockey, rough at present but capable, with plenty of rolling, of becoming quite a fair ground,” and, “We hope also before long to have a wireless listening-in installation. Then we look forward to hearing the real thing.” It is a very good thing to look back through the early records of the school. Far too many of us don’t realise what a grand history we must live up to. Are we doing enough for the school? Can we do enough?
Lord Halifax on Speech Day
Celia Asher shakes hands with Lord Halifax. Miss Smith is in the foreground. Mr. Hamilton is to the right.
One of the milestones of last year was the visit of Lord Halifax on Speech Day. Other visitors to the school were Monsieur Duthel on Sports’ Day - he was in charge of the party of French children who were visiting our Esperanto Club - Mr. Mason with the West Riding Orchestra and Miss Marshall, the Technical Nursing Officer of Sheffield, who brought a film “Student Nurse” which was shown to the girls of forms 4, 5 and 6. We have had a good year and are now looking forward to Sports’ Day, Folk Dancing and the School Concert, which will be described elsewhere and which is to take the place of our Music Competition. We are also looking forward, but with different emotions, to the too quickly approaching School Certificate and Higher School Certificate Examinations.
Since last year we have had a very great number of Staff changes. We wish every success to Miss Davies, Miss Bisset, Mrs. Hamilton, Miss Thompson, Dr. Sass, Mr. Oakes, Mr. Ward, Mr. Smith, Mr. M. Davies and Mr. Blewitt - and at the same time we give a belated but none the less hearty welcome to - Miss Ward, Miss Wimpenny, Miss Woodward, Miss Jackson, Mr. Allan, Mr. Stockill and Mr. Swinbank. Four members of the staff to whom we must say, “Hello and goodbye,” are Miss Wilson, Miss. Sykes, Mr. Hewson and Mr. Davis.
Leaving the Teaching Staff in July 1948
Miss Davies
Mr. Oakes
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Miss Bissett
Mr. Ward
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Mrs Hamilton
Mr. Smith
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Miss Thompson
Mr. Morgan-Davies
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Dr. Sass
Mr. Blewitt
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Joining the Teaching Staff in September 1948
Miss Ward
Mr. Allan
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Miss Wimpenny
Mr. Stockhill
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Miss Woodward
Mr. Swinbank
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Miss Jackson
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We go to press early this year so we can merely wish all competitors - whether on the sports field or in the examination room - the best of luck. Do your best and none can ask more of you.
Marion Roberts, U6S
Marion Roberts, U6S
6. 1959: The Staff play "Shadow and Substance"
Produced by Mr Kennedy
Produced by Mr Kennedy
Mr Kennedy
After last year's memorable comedy, the staff turned this year to more serious matters with Mr. Kennedy's (photo left) production of "Shadow and Substance" - a tragedy by Paul Vincent Carroll. Set in Ireland, the play revolved around Canon Skerritt and the anachronistic world of church infallibility and fawning parishioners which he had built around himself at Ardmahone - a world destined to be shattered by the death of his maid, Brigid. Though never fully understanding her, the Canon had looked upon Brigid almost as a daughter, and it is ironical that she is killed finally by stones intended for her only loyal, friend, Dermot Francis O'Flingsley, whom the Canon had previously dismissed from his position of local schoolmaster, after the publication of his book which supposedly decried the Catholic Church.
This was not the kind of theme likely to appeal to the younger members of the audience and it presented the cast and producer with the difficult task of holding the audience's attention, especially at the beginning of the play.
The first scene was mainly explanatory, and consequently appeared a little disjointed as the various parts of the plot emerged from the conversation - namely, the maid's affinity to St. Brigid, her affection for the schoolmaster, public hostility towards a certain book and the strictness of the Canon. After the initial suspense felt by the audience and sustained by the assured acting, the story appeared to progress slowly, but as its strands were woven into a unity to provide the dramatic ending, so the audience was increasingly 'held'. Indeed, it is reported that the feelings expressed on the stage were so vividly portrayed that certain members of the audience were moved to tears.
This was not the kind of theme likely to appeal to the younger members of the audience and it presented the cast and producer with the difficult task of holding the audience's attention, especially at the beginning of the play.
The first scene was mainly explanatory, and consequently appeared a little disjointed as the various parts of the plot emerged from the conversation - namely, the maid's affinity to St. Brigid, her affection for the schoolmaster, public hostility towards a certain book and the strictness of the Canon. After the initial suspense felt by the audience and sustained by the assured acting, the story appeared to progress slowly, but as its strands were woven into a unity to provide the dramatic ending, so the audience was increasingly 'held'. Indeed, it is reported that the feelings expressed on the stage were so vividly portrayed that certain members of the audience were moved to tears.
Mr. Bulley
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Mrs. Whittaker
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Mr. Reed
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It is therefore to the credit of the producer and his team that the difficulties of presenting a tragic theme were overcome so impressively. Mr. Bulley, as the obstinate, scheming and old-fashioned Canon, fulfilled all that the introductory scene led us to expect from the stern churchman. His first appearance matched perfectly the powerful image the audience had of him in their minds. He was the dominating figure on the stage, whenever present. When necessary, his mood and feeling could be altered by a change of tone - he showed a convincing sympathy towards Brigid in spite of his stern inflexibility in matters of Church politics. Throughout, he showed a command of his part. The naive and innocent maid - the Irish 'Joan of Arc' - was interpreted by Mrs. Whittaker with moving sincerity, and the effectiveness of the conclusion depended a great deal on her success in winning the sympathy of the audience. Only O'Flingsley understood her - a fact which Mr. Reed communicated clearly. He portrayed the educated rebel with the intelligence and self-confidence which such a role demanded, aided by an inflection of voice which underlined equally his compassion for Brigid and his bluntness towards the Canon.
Mr. Boyd
Miss Walker
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Mr. Crompton
Mr Hamilton
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Miss Harrison
Mr Wharton
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Mr Owen
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The Schoolmaster was in a better position to defy Canon Skerritt than were Fathers Corr and Kirwan who, as representatives of the modern approach to religion, often found themselves clashing with the Canon's love of tradition. But their rebellion was an inward thing. Mr. Boyd as Father Kirwan and, particularly, Mr. Crompton as Father Corr, were able to disclose their simmering tempers and pent-up emotions to the audience by vivid intonations and gestures of exasperation. The two were evenly balanced. The bluntness of O'Flingsley also provided alleviation from the cowering attitudes of the parishioners, as represented by Jemima Cooney, a typical spinster, realistically portrayed by Miss Harrison, and her obsequious nephew, Francis Ignatius O'Connor, whose weak-will and hesitancy were well brought out by Mr. Owen, helped by a most becoming hair style. These were adequately supported by Miss Walker as Thomasine Concannon, the Canon's step-niece, and comic relief was ably supplied by the Headmaster and Mr. Wharton as the Mullahone brothers who were members of the petition directed against O'Flingsley's book. Mr. Kennedy is to he congratulated on his casting, his success in perfecting the Irish accents of the staff (though a slight Yorkshire twang was apparent in one case) and in helping the actors to live their parts with sincerity and humour.
Mr Powell
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Mr. Burnell
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Mr. Farrar
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Mr. Twigg
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Mr. Leonard
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Finally, we must not forget the work of those behind the scenes - Mr. Powell's efficiency as Stage Manager, Mr. Burnell's convincing decor, Mr. Farrar's arrangement of the lighting, and the work of Mr. Twigg and Mr. Leonard in connection with Properties and Make-up respectively. The setting was simple but effective. The position of the furniture at all times gave the Canon pride of place. The decoration of the Canon's room was appropriate and helped to emphasise the picture of the Sacred Heart which proved to be the subject of difference between the members of the household. The white curtains and white dress (of which Mrs. Bradshaw would have been proud) seemed to bring out Brigid's purity and closeness to Heaven.
Bernard Connolly, U6A (Talbot)
7. 1948: A drawing with insight.
Under construction
Under construction
From the School Magazine of 1948. The image has been provided by Joyce and Michael Dixon. Thank you
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Mr Hamilton, the Headmaster of HGS for 30 years, was a keen sportsman who played for the Hilmians Cricket team every weekend right up to his retirement in 1967. As a Headmaster, everyone, both staff and pupils, knew what the school meant to him and how proud of it he was.
Terry McCroakam (HGS pupil, Head Boy and Staff member)
Terry McCroakam (HGS pupil, Head Boy and Staff member)
HGS Staff Cricket Team 1952
Back Row L-R: Mr. Collette, Mr Allan, Mr Collins, Mr Farrar, Mr Dodd, Mr Taylor, Mr Walker
Front Row L-R: Mr Burnett, Mr Revill, Mr Senior, Mr Hamilton, Mr Stewart, Mr Manning, Mr Swinbank
Front Row L-R: Mr Burnett, Mr Revill, Mr Senior, Mr Hamilton, Mr Stewart, Mr Manning, Mr Swinbank
Jack McGillivray, the artist.
Boy Prefects 1947-48 with the School Secretaries
Photo from Eric Jones. Thank you, Eric. Some names have come from Les Brown and Betty Dracup. Thank you.
Back Row L-R: Adrian Womersley, Sidney Boulton, Brian Rainforth, Arthur Hanley, Robert Lumb, Graham Hamilton, Leslie Brown, Philip Moore, Terry Doohan, Peter Collette, Eric Jones, Jim Foster
Front Row L-R: George Greenhough, Marjorie Oxley, Derek Wilkinson, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Brian Beaumont, Eileen Race, Jack McGillivray
Front Row L-R: George Greenhough, Marjorie Oxley, Derek Wilkinson, Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Crossland, Brian Beaumont, Eileen Race, Jack McGillivray
To be continued
