Minerva's Diary - A History of Jarvis Collegiate Institute

MINERVA'S DIARY
A History of
Jarvis Collegiate Institute
UNDED
Ilarvey Med land

TORONTO
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MINERVA'S DIARY

MINERVA'S DIARY,
A HISTORY OF
JARVIS COLLEGIATE
INSTITUTE
By
HARVEY MEDLAND
Mika Publishing Company
Belleville, Ontario
1979

Minerva's Diary
Copyright @ Harvey Medland, 1979
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced in any form or by any means without
written permission
ISBN 0-919303-36-6
LE5.T6M33 373.713'541 C79-0946114
Mika Publishing Company
Printed and bound in Canada

"Old Blue" doomed Dispute with U.C.C. — Auction halted
1858 settlement — Dr. Howe retires.
Chapter7 (1863-1872) ..... 41
Rev. Arthur Wickson — Move to Dalhousie Street — The founding of
the "Lit."— Admission scholarships to university — Girls allowed to
take French — Sheriff Jarvis sells home to Board — Move to vacant
asylum — School Act of 1871 — Toronto High School —
Texts — Mrs. Howe — Move to 361 Jarvis Street — The pump! —
Girls' class — The mean Mrs. Howe — Dr. Wickson quits.
46
Chapter8 (1872-1900) .
Toronto overview — Girls' admission scholarships — Visitors' book —
Dr. Archibald MacMurchy — Major Fred Manley — Toronto Collegiate
Institute — Miss Thompson replaces Mrs. Howe — First girls — Ernest
Thompson Seton — Sam Hughes — The "Games" Pupils — Female
teachers form associations — The Girls' "Lit." — The What-Not —
Successful female graduates — The pump's polluted — Lord
Lansdowne's visit — Distribution Day — Additions to school — Leaky
assembly hall — The building's bulging — Pupils — The Bloomer
Scandal — Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute — "Prep" class abolished
The Truancy Act of 1891 — First telephone — The Collegiate — First
intercollegiate debate — Amalgamation of Boys' and Girls' "Lits."
Tug-oßwar — Trophy — First mixed class — Dr. MacMurchy vs. Janie
Thomas — Miss Thomas temporarily sent to Harbord — Old Boys'
Association — Year Book — Dr. Helen MacMurchy — Souvenir —
1899 "At-Home" — Cadet Corps founded — Noteworthy alumni
Poor teaching — Recommendation to fire the entire staff —
Dr. MacMurchy resigns.
Chapter 9 (1900-1906) ... ................ 70
T.S.S.A.A. founded — First electric lights — Major Fred Manley
Decreasing discipline and enrolment — Ex-pupils' Association — Old
Girls' Association founded — Conquest of the flagpole — Wireless
telegraphy demonstration — The projection of coloured photographs —
Students catch and dissect pigeons — The Literary and Scientific
Society — The Magnet — Ernest MacMillan — Noteworthy alumni
Cadet Corps — "Commingling of the sexes" — Staff changes
Major Manley resigns.

Chapter 10 (1906A914) . 81
Jewish immigrants — Dr. Luther Embree — New staff — Centenary
celebrations — Old Boys' and Old Girls' Associations amalgamate —
"At-Home" fire — Boys' and girls' hockey teams — Boys' and girls'
gymnasiums — Interscholastic Games — First rugby championship —
Cadet Corps' Rifle Team — Free tuition for form I — Noteworthy
alumni — Teachers accept principalships — Dr. Embree retires.
Chapter 11 (1914A934) . . 94
Mr. John Jeffries — Jarvis Patriotic and Philanthropic Fund — " Ditty"
bags — Soldiers of the Soil — Casualties — Jeffries' tribute — War
Memorial Fund — A Sale of Pictures by Canadian Artists — Bronze
table( unveiled — All fees discontinued — Panoramic photographs —
Rugby in the old days — Noteworthy athletes — New staff — Women
still demand rights — Inspector refuses to grade facilities — Bloor Street
site — Woodlawn — Laying the cornerstone at Jarvis and Wellesley —
King Edward reunion — Resurrection of the Magnet — The March
Opening exercise — "Education's showplace" — Optimus award —
Formal opening — Miss Thomas retires — Staff changes — School
orchestra established — The Drama Club — The "Lit." ends — The
Girls' Club — First Girls' P.E. Demonstration — School organizations —
Noteworthy alumni — Auditorium murals — Staff changes — Radio
program — Mock funeral — Athletic championships — Mr. Jeffries
retires.
Chapter 12 (1934-1939) . 137
Mr. Fred Clarke — Staff changes — The demise of boys' athletics —
Girls win Cochrane Cup — Formation of Student Council
Organizations — Noteworthy alumni School spirit sinks —
Mr. Clarke retires.
Chapter 13 (1939-1950) . 140
The Magnet wins Star Shield — First school nurse — Women gain
equal pay for equal work — Mr. Arthur Allin — Staff changes — War
Service Council — The Great Doughnut Drive•— The Hepburn Plan.—
War guests — V-E Day — Stamp Club campaign — War Memorial —
Trial by Jury — Jarvis Varieties — Gay Nineties Revue — Annual
operettas — Athletics — Girls' P.E. Demonstration, 1946 — Noteworthy
alumni — 1950 Commencement — Mr. Allin retires.

Chapter 14 (1950-1969).
Principal James T. Jenkins — Operettas — Mr. Fletcher Staples
Mr. Jenkins retires — Milton Jewell becomes principal — Exodus of
teachers — Special commercial option — Dr. Edwin A. Hardy Library
"The Chinese Class" — South wing addition — Auditorium renovation —
Opening of new addition — The largest gymnasium in Canada — The
Pipe Band — Lester B. Pearson's visit — Cadet Corps — Operettas
Jack Overholt — J.D. Overholt Memorial Glee Club
Sesquicentennial — Hockey Team and Senior Basketball Team win
T.S.S.A.A. Championships — Alumni reunion — Changes in
education — "At Home" — Girls' Play Day — Fund raising — World
Affairs Club — "Pacifists" picket cadets — Final cadet inspection —
Mr. Davies continues operettas — Drama — Team teaching —
Auditorium fire — Mac the Knife — Omelet — Instrumental music —
Concert Band at Expo '67— Vocal music — Junior basketball titles —
1961 Senior Football Championship — Swim Team — Gymnastics —
Optimus Winners' Reunion — Integration of lunchrooms — Noteworthy
alumni — Staff exodus continues — Renovations and east wing
addition — Mr. Jewell retires.
Chapter 15 (1969-1978) . 181
Principal Eric McCann — "Do your own thing" — Declining enrolment —
Miss Ann Shilton, principal — Teachers' strike — Girls' athletics —
Boys' athletics — Math contest results — Governor-General
Jules Leger's visit — China trip — The Jasieye — Jarvis Mosaic —
First winter carnival — Reunions.
154
Appendix A, Optimus Winners
Appendix B, Optima Winners ....... ... .
Appendix C, Magnet Editors .
Appendix D, Boys' Centenary Athletic Award Winners
. 189
190
191
192
Appendix E, Girls' Centenary Athletic Award Winners
193
Bibliography .
Index .
194
197

FOREWARD
A city and a school grew up together; without the town of
York, the District Grammar School would not have been started.
As York grew into Toronto, the Grammar School became the
legendary Old Blue School. Today, a sophisticated Toronto and
a progressive Jarvis Co!legiate regard each other as continuing
factors in the development, not only of the city, but of a province
and a Dominion. Without Jarvis Collegiate. this country might
have been deprived of many great names, many famous minds,
and rnuch so!id contribution to its general growth.
The book beiore you presents the history of this school —
Jarvis Collegiate Institute — through all its life from 1807 to
today, with its developments, its vicissitudes, its innovations, its
tragedies. "Nil decet, Minerva Invita" was, and is, a serious
challenge to serious minds, and still provides the spirit of the
present Collegiate.
The publication of this book was made possible by gifts,
individual and provincial, but above all, by the dedication of one
present staff member whose name never appears in the body of
the book. Harvey Medland graduated from Ryerson's Radio and
Television Arts program in 1958. After a two-year career with the
C.B.C., he decided to graduate again, this time from Queen's
University. He found his true vocation in teaching. Since 1964 he
has been in the English and Guidance Departments at J.C.I., and
it is his love and labour that have produced this tribute to
celebrate the 175th anniversary in 1982 of a great school. All
graduates, past and future, will be grateful to him for the endless
research and careful organization of his information, and for the
memories evoked by anecdotes and photographs. Minerva will
be proud of him, and of her school.
Milton Jewell
9

INTRODUCTION
Research on the history of Jarvis Collegiate began in 1975
in response to a suggestion that an article on the school's
heritage be written for a local magazine. After several months of
research it became apparent that enough material existed to
provide information and photographs for an entire volume. As
the project progressed, hundreds of J.C.I. "old boys and old
girls" carne forth with anecdotes, photographs, clippings,
financial assistance and assorted memorabilia and thus provided
a constant source of encouragement and emovment. To each of
them we are most grateful.
Minerva also wishes to thank the many determined
archivists who searched relentlessly until the desired material
was located. Moira Armour and Don Nethery of the Toronto
Board of Education Archives supplied inspectors' reports,
minute books, newspaper clippings and a great deal of help.
Patricia Birkett of the Public Archives of Canada located the
original papers on the Grammar School vs. U.C.C. conflict as
well as the 1854 notice of auction which had eluded us for two
years. Kenneth MacPherson of the Ontario Archives found the
Strachan letters and a photograph of the 1888 Girls' Literary
Society despite a colleague's insistence that such a print did not
exist. Linda Price of the Toronto City Hall Archives traced Mrs.
Howe and Mrs. Hester Howe through city directories to
determine that they were two different women. Edith Firth of the
Metropolitan Toronto Library found George O'Kill Stuart's
Account Book and Robert Taylor-Vaisey of the University of
Toronto Archives supplied many given names for athletes who
would otherwise have been known only by their surnames.
When the actual writing began in 1977, the Mika
Publishing Company was then consulted and agreed to publish
the unwritten manuscript. For the next three years Mr. and Mrs.
Mika gave frequent advice and much encouragement. Other
expertise was also volunteered by the following to whom we
11

extend our stncere gratitude: Polly Sweetman wrote the prelude,
Maric Jutras edited a rough copy of the manuscript and Fallis
Stafford photographed the panels and tablets presently in the
school, After the final chapter was completed in 1978, Rhoda
Resnick accepted the challenge to edit the manuscript and
compile the index. Her patience, insistence and skill are all deeply
appreciated. Wc also wish to thank Robert and Margaret
Moore, William Pearson. and John Slatter for their enthusiastic
and valuable assistance.
The financial requirements for Minerva's Diary — A
History of Jarvis Collegiate Institute were provided by Wintario,
Wayne Skinner and more than one hundred ex-pupils to whom
we extend hearty thanks. We hope that you enjoy the "old
school's" history as she struggles to master and maintain her
objectives, and that the text and photos bring back many warm
memories as well as evoke a sense of pride in your heritage.
Harvey Medland.
12

PRELUDE
The need for a public school system in Upper Canada was
evident as early as 1796. The United Empire Loyalists wanted
their children to be educated, and made their ambition known to
Governor Simcoe and the Legislature. As a result, an act was
pose,ed a year later in order to establish the opening of "a
respectable grammar school" in each of Upper Canada's eight
dist : a-ts- The matter sputtered for a decade, however, because
of Gevecnor Simcoe's withdrawal from the colony, and the
consequent vacuum or leadership.
In March 1807, the Provincial Legislature of Upper
Canada, meeting in Newark, finally passed the District Public
School Act which permitted the establishment of a public school
in each of the eight districts. Five "fit and discreet" persons were
to be selected as trustees for each area, and were to have the
powcr to appoint the master and to make regulations. The sum of
one hundred pounds was to be granted to each district for the
payment of the master's salary. Other expenses were to be met
by fees.
On April 16th, Governor Gore appointed Rev. George
O'Kill Stuart, D.D., as master of York's Home District Grammar
School. Thus began the history of Jarvis Collegiate Institute.
13

14

CHAPTER 1
There must have been an optimistic aura among York's
500 inhabitants on June I, 1807. The mud and malaria of spring
had been forgotten as the mills on the Don and Humber Rivers
returned to full operation. While settlers were clearing land up
north at Yorkville, Indians were renewing their trading along the
waterfront. In the town itself King and Front Streets were the
busiest thoroughfares, although Yonge Street was the longest —
even then it extended all the wav to Lake Simcoe. Four features
of York's swampy, stump-riddled east end were Market Square,
St. James' wooden church, the two red brick Parliament
Buildings, and the future site of the Old Blue School, College
Square.
On the south-east corner of King and George Streets
stood "a substantial frame house, with bow windows looking out
on King Street, the entrance being on George Street. The
external part of this structure was painted a light brown colour,
with green Venetian blinds. "*l This was the residence of the
master, Rev. George O'KiII Stuart. Attached to its east side was a
one-room edifice of rough stone, which had been hewn from a
nearby quarry. It was alleged to be 50 feet long and 25 feet wide.
Unfortunately, the contrast between the frame residence and the
stone addition was too "unfavourable" , so the ugly boulders were
covered with a sheathing of half-inch boards. Historians referred
to it as a "root-house", but to the master it was the Home District
Grammar School in its first day of operation.
Inside, Rev. Stuart stood before five boys. He was a "very
tall, benevolent, fine-featured ecclesiastic with a curious delivery
characterized by unexpected elevations and depressions of the
voice irrespective of the content. These variations were
accompanied by long closings of the eyes, and then a sudden reopening
of the same.
After completing his formal education in 1800 at Harvard
University, he moved to York and became "officiating minister"
of St. James' Cathedral and the "keeper" of a private school at
King and Frederick Streets. On April 16, 1807, he was appointed
master of the new Home District Grammar School. Upon its
opening, he made the following entry in his account book:
On June 1st, 1807 the District School was opened
and the pupils whose names follow were admitted.
John Ridout. William A. Hamilton. Thomas G.
Hamilton. Georae H. Detlor. Georqe S. Boulton.
The original Home District Grammar School was a single room attached to the
master •s house located at the corner of King and George Streets. The stone
structure was covered with a sheathing of half-inch boards.
Courtesy: Toronto Public Libraries.
Three of these pupils would eventually become well
known. John Ridout, the Surveyor-General's son, would be
killed ten years later by Samuel Jarvis in Toronto's last duel.
George Boulton, son of Hon. D'Arcy Boulton, and George
Detlor would become members of the House of Assembly.
By the end of the year the enrolment which totalled thirtyseven,
included Mary Ridout, Donald and Angus McDonell,
William Jarvis, son of the Province's Secretary and Registrar,
Eliza Ann Jarvis, age 6, and her older sister, Maria, age 19. Allan
McNab enrolled in July and was eventually knighted for his
exploits on the Niagara frontier during the rebellion of 1837. He
later served as Prime Minister of Upper Canada from 1854 to
1856.
15

Rev. George O'Kill Stuart was head master from 1807
to 1812. He preferred to teach with his eyes closed, but
students remained alert as he had a habit of re-opening
them "suddenly".
Page I of George O'Kill Stuart's Account Book shows the entry made on June 1, 1807, the firstdayof
the school's history.
Courtesy: Metropolitan Toronto Library.
16

Affluent families, such as those mentioned above, could
well afford the $16.00 per year tuition along with the fee of six
York shillings for their share of the wood burned during the
winter.
Surviving records suggest that students may not have
received their money's worth, as Rev. Stuart's teaching lacked
discipline, if not scholarship. In a letter dated August, 1869, one of
his students, George S. Jarvis, wrote the following account to
Henry Scadding:
Cornwall 5 August 1869
The Dr was a very amiable man and very averse
to use corporal punishment. When he found it
necessary to have recourse to it he sent the
delinquent out into his garden to cut the rod of
course the smallest twig of the current bush was
brought in. Sir Allan was sent out on one occasion;
and thinking he would escape by perpetrating a
good joke, brought in a pretty large limb cut from an
apple tree The Dr did not however see it in that
light, and selecting the small part of it gave Sir Allan
the most severe castigation I ever saw him inflict.
The boys were frequently in the habit of
appropriating the Drs apples and he assured us that
the first one detected in this act would be severely
punished. On one occasion he detected Sir Allan
eating something and pouncing upon him, just as he
was putting the last morsel into his mouth,
demanded "What are you eating McNab"?
Bread Sir! said the supposed delinquent, turning
the half masticated contents of his mouth into his
hand and presenting it for inspection. The Dr it is
needless to say sat down rather in discomfiture .
At this time some criminal was condemned to
the pillory. The Schollars got the impression that
they would be permitted to pelt him with rotten
eggs; and came provided accordingly. I secured a
nest of about a dozen of high odor which I secured
in my coat tail pockets and approached the scene of
action very cautiously. McNab was there before me
and with a bat gave me a rap on the pockets — the
event can be better imagined than described
After cutting off the pockets one of them was
appropriated to the use of the assailant and of
course a battle ensued — Result a black eve to
McNab and a bloody nose to your humble servant.
A fight in those days was looked upon by the
boys as necessary to acquire a Status and in truth
parents did not altogether discourage it. We would
much rather indulge in a scrimage than meet the
difficulties of that "d—d little Eutropus " •t
With each new year the attendance at the Home District
Grammar School dwindled. An enrolment of twenty students in
1808 and 1809 gave way to only thirteen the following year. Rev.
Stuart ended classes during the summer of 1811 with a total
enrolment of only four pupils: James Givins, William Cawthra.
Thomas Playter and William Pilkington. He expressed to his
superiors a desire to be relieved of his duties as master and his
wishes were granted. In 1812 he moved to Kingston where he
succeeded his deceased father as minister.
1 Scadding, Henry, Toronto of Old (Toronto: Adam. Stevenson & Co., 1873).
2 Ibid.
3 Stuart, G.O., Account Book (Toronto: 1807).
4 Scadding Papers (Aug. 5, 1869).
17

CHAPTER 2
In the spring of 1812 Rev. John Strachan, a 34-year-old
Scot who had been teaching in Cornwall for nine years, made a
determined effort to find a new home. His attempt to fill the
parish vacancy created in Kingston by the death of Rev. John
Stuart was successfully opposed by Stuart's influential wife, who
sought the position for her son, George. Strachan's remaining
two choices were to stay in Cornwall, or to accept Lieutenant
Governor Gore's offer of the mastership at the Home District
Grammar School in York at a lesser salary. He chose the former.
Fate, however, would not permit the determined cleric to
remain in Cornwall. War with the United States was imminent,
and an attack on York, a government seat and garrisoned town,
was certain. Authorities needed the energetic, stubborn, pro-
British Strachan to take charge of St. James' Cathedral, the
Home District Grammar School and, indeed, the entire town.
Consequently, General Brock made a second offer which
included a salary increase and chaplaincy to the Legislature. This
time Strachan accepted.
Rt. Rev. John Strachan was head master from 1812 to
1823. Before becoming the first Bishop of Toronto he
moved his students into the Old blue School.
The letter appointing John Strachan minister of the Church of
England at York is signed by Isaac Erock. Such an appointment
included the headmastership of the Home District Grammar School.
Courtesy: Ontario Archives.
18

When war was declared in June, 1812, the usually quiet
town of York was turned into a busy supply depot and
headquarters for the commander of Upper Canada's troops,
General Isaac Brock. Two months later Strachan arrived in his
new home and subsequently observed, "The bustle and
confusion occasioned by the war has given me little opportunity
of ascertaining the state of the parish, most of the people are at
the lines resisting invasion
By October he was sufficiently organized to publish the
following advertisement in the York Gazette:
E btYCATtON.
Subscriber
or 'he Schoot'
the P •blic 'h«t
Seminary open the receetbn of Pupil'.
Rate ü.f appevrti bed by the t rußeet,
Common Edvcaoon 6 per •
g 130.
Anrtouq (0 Cit-end the rdv.atace. o{hiø
3.1bscrtber % ili even abate fome.hit of the abdVQ
to the poore•. Inhabitant', provtded they kee •
their ChtiJrrn next clean. tod Cupply them wit
prone r Book f S B Scho lars Other
tri(t are charg:d ten pounds per
JOHN STRACHAN.
Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. forces, claiming that a delayed
acceptance would only indicate Dearborn's approval of his
soldiers' plundering. In order to avoid such incrimination, the
General signed. The school and numerous residences were thus
spared from the torch, but many public buildings, including the
Library and Legislature were less fortunate. The Americans
continued to occupy the town for eleven days.
With increased fighting on the Great Lakes in 1814,
Strachan had little time for teaching. Finally, in 1815 the Battle of
York ended, and at last the master could concentrate his efforts
on the school.
000ber to, t' 1 a. The two-storey schoolhouse was built in 1816 from timbers cut in the forest just north of
College Square. It was located on the corner of Newgate (Adelaide) and Church Streets.
Courtesy: John Ross Robertson Collection.
The opening of the school in 1812 was advertised in the
Upper Canada Gazette on October 10th.
Courtesy: Canadian Library Association.
A record enrolment of fifty that year forced the new
master to move his class into a reconverted barn on the southeast
corner of King and Yonge Streets.
On the evening of April 26, 1813, fourteen vessels
containing 1,700 undisciplined Americans sailed into what is now
Toronto Harbour. When they attacked the next morning,
Strachan capitulated immediately to General Dearborn,
In April, 1816, Strachan received $3,000 for the purpose of
erecting a more suitable schoolhouse on College Square, a sixacre
block bounded by Newgate (Adelaide), Hospital (Richmond),
Nelson (Jarvis) and Church Streets. The building was to
be erected 100 feet from both Church and Newgate Streets. The
rest of the block, which was to serve as a playground, was filled
with huge pine stumps, white clover and small ponds. Through
the middle of it ran a shallow creek where water collected after
19

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3

In matters of discipline a variety of remedies prevailed, but
the severity of the punishment was proportionate to the
seriousness of the crime. A few methods were recalled by
historian and alumnus Henry Scadding:
Now and then a lad would be seen standing
with his jacket turned inside out . kneeling for a
certain number of minutes, or standing with the
arm extended and holding a book. An "ally" or
apple brought inopportunely into view during the
hours of work might entail the exhibition, article by
article, slowly and reluctantly, of all the contents of
a pocket.
Occasionally the censors (senior boys appointed
to help in keeping order) were sent to cut
rods on Mr. McGill's property adjoining the
playground on the north; but the dire implements
were not often called into requisition."*8
The climax of the school year was the Public Examination.
Even if the ordeal involved recitation rather than examination, it
was as dreaded then as the grade 13 "departmentals" would be in
the following century. Parents, relatives and inhabitants seeking
excitement crowded into the school's second storey to hear their
favourite urchins perform; and on a raised dais which was
covered with a crimson carpet gleamed the Lieutenant
Governor, Sir Peregrine Maitland.
In his Prologue the feature performer of the 1816
Examination, Robert Baldwin, praised the Marquis of Wellesley
for founding a college in Calcutta. The suggestion was then made
to Maitland that he too could be immortalized by establishing
such a school:
Yet much remains for some aspiring son,
Whose liberal soul from that desires renown,
Which gains for Wellesley a lasting crown;
Some general structure in these wilds to rear,
Where every art and science may appear.
O, Maitland blest! this proud distinction woos
The quick acceptance, backed by every muse;
Those feelings, too, which joyful fancy knew
When learning's gems first opened to thy view,
Bid you to thousands smooth the thorny road, *9
Which leads to glorious Science's bright abode.
For the next four hours the guests were entertained with
debates, acclamations, and recitations. Perhaps it was with some
relief that the audience listened to Horace Ridout's Epilogue in
which he lodged a complaint against his master:
Between ourselves, and just to speak my mind,
In English Grammar, Master's much behind;
I speak the honest truth I hate to dash —
He bounds our talk by Murray, Lowth and Ashe.
I told him once that Abercrorrhie, moved
By genius deep, had Morrav's pian R.proved.
He frowned epon me,
his nose.
And said the had dose.
Once in my Lhcrr,e i
He sentenced
redress:
Again for 'rnew:z'
"Uid'_-avour'.
And all the lie Ha; iost h',s iavour
Every yean jc.Gt [o summer vacation, everyone
contributed to a "(east" held in the classroom with the
administration's approval. According to the master, it was a
"riotous affair".
Following the establishment of the eight district grammar
schools it became obvious that their numbers were too few, and
their fees too high. Consequently, the legislature passed the
Common School Act of 1816, which was based on Strachan's
proposals and drawn up with his assistance. It provided €6,000
annually for the support of common schools throughout the
province wherever a minimum attendance of twenty pupils could
be obtained. Scholarships were to be available to the poorer
inhabitants, and each community was to elect a board of three
trustees. A provincial Board of Education was also established
to control and distribute the grants which were based on pupil
attendance, and to provide for textbooks and a portion of the
teachers' salaries. Unfortunately, the provisions did not include
finances for the construction and upkeep of schoolhouses; that
chore was left to the trustees. Thus the administration was
organized, but few schools were built.
In February, 1818, Strachan wrote the following letter to
Bishop Mountain of Quebec:
York Upper Canada 10 Feby 1818
The school here is flourishing. I have hired two
21

Assistants by which we are enabled to extend our
system of education .
I am just commencing a Course of Lectures on
Natural Philosophy to be delivered in the Evening
twice each week — the proceeds to be laid out in
•
painting and completing the School-house . 12
.h,iTGRAL PHILOSOPHY.
Subscriber intends to
u Of
ture• on Natural
to
Ttn•sdt.:,• t 7th
UI M. should a nuiliber 01
.Atuiliors come iurward •sumcicnt to
remission for
Guineti$) br oi
{Jilf/um%4 EMI.' Dr. 11mr:t, or at
'in .•ui b'n.v.
11T vrcent
laid out tn Painting tl;e bi'trict
JOIi'N STRACHAN.
YOB, Feb. ISIS.
In an advertisement in the February. 1818, Upper
Canada Gazette Strachan announced a series of
lectures on natural philosophy. The proceeds were used
for the purchase of the legendary blue paint.
Courtesy: Ontario Archives.
As a result of his lectures, a coat of slate-blue paint was
applied to the outside of the building, and the door and windows
were trimmed with white. Henceforth the structure was to be
known as the Old Blue School.
One of the assistants, Rev. A. Bethune, eventually
succeeded Strachan as Bishop of Toronto. Of his introduction to
the school he wrote:
On entering it for the first time, with the
reverend Principal on a bright September morning,
fresh school-boy feelings were awakened by the
sight of forty, or fifty, happy young faces, from
seventeen down to five years of age. There was a
Class of only two in Greek, who also took up
Horace and Livy in Latin; and there were three
Latin Forms below them — the most numerous and
the most sprightly reading Cornelius Nepos. None
were much advanced in Mathematics, and, with the
exception of the senior two, had not passed the
fourth book of Euclid. *13
After 1820 Rev. John Strachan remained director of the
school, while the actual teaching was carried on by his assistants.
Three years later he was appointed General Superintendent of
Education for Upper Canada, and resigned his post at "Old
Blue", the school which was so indebted to him for its
construction, philosophy, discipline and paint.
He continued to work with the same dedication and
determination for the rest of his life. In 1827 the history of the
University of Toronto began when he secured the charter of
King's College for the purpose of training Anglican clergy. In 1836
Strachan realized his ultimate goal when he was appointed first
Bishop of Toronto.
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Flint, David, John Strachan, Pastor and Politician (Toronto: Oxford
University Press. 1971).
Scadding, H. , op. cit.
Scadding, H., op. cit.
Spragge, G.W„ "The Cornwall Grammar School Under John Strachan,"
Ontario Historical Society, Papers and Records, 34:63..84 (1942).
Kingston Gazette (Sept. 3, 1811).
Doughty, A.G., and Story, N., Documents Relating to the Constitutional
History Of Canada, 1819-1828 (Ottawa: 1935).
Strachan, J., A Concise Introduction to Practical Arithmetic, for the Use of
Schools (Montreal: Nahum Mower, 1809).
Scadding, Henry, op. cit.
Dickson, George, A History of Upper Canada College, 1829-1892
(Toronto: Rowsell & Hutchison, 1893).
10 Dickson, G., op. cit.
Il Spragge, G.W., "John Strachan's Contribution to Education." Canadian
Historical Review, 22:147.-58. Cochrane. H. , Centennial Story (Toronto:
Thomas Nelson & Sons, Ltd. (1950).
12 Strachan papers, Toronto Public Library.,
13 Bethune, A.N., Memoirs of the Rt. Rev. John Strachan (Toronto: 1870).
22

gymnasium. This was probably the first use of the term in North
America.
CHAPTER 3
Another of John Strachan's assistants in "Old Blue", Rev.
Samuel Armour, became headmaster in 1822. The Scotsman
seems to have been remembered as much for his love of hunting
as for his ability to teach. Students recall that he was extremely
distracted from his lessons whenever a flock of passenger
pigeons flew overhead, to the accompanying sounds of popping
guns. *1 His aversion to "cribbing" was equally apparent. Upon
receipt of the only available copy of the classics text, Eutropius,
he stitched up the English translation at the back of the book to
deny the pupils any assistance.
For some undetermined reason, his class once chose to
bar his entry to the school by piling cordwood against the door
from within. The master had to effect his not-too-graceful
entrance via a side window. The castigation resulting from the
caper is unknown, but it is one historical event that was never
repeated.*2 After his resignation in 1825, Rev. Armour moved to
Cavan township where he was a schoolmaster until his death.
That year the Home District Grammar School became
the Royal Grammar School under the kindly direction of Rev. Dr.
Thomas Phillips, a Cambridge graduate recently arrived from
England. He was a highly respected scholar who introduced
many of the Eton traditions to the school. In appearance he
resembled an English country parson with his shovel-hat, closelybuttoned
frock coat, prescribed leggings and powdered hair. He
replaced the Latin text, Ruddiman's Rudiments, with the Eton
Latin Grammar. The use of the Eton Greek Grammar was also
initiated, but the selections from it, as well as the master's notes,
were translated into Latin, not English. *3
Dr. Phillips added a large, rough "lean-to" across the
entire west side of the schoolhouse to provide his students with a
play area during inclement weather. A few bars and poles were
included, and the master instructed everyone to refer to it as the
Rev. Dr. Thomas Phillips was headmaster from 1825 to 1830. Beneath his
frock coat were the prescribed leggings;-his powdered hair was enhanced
with a shovel-hat.
23

4
The next three years were relatively uneventful for the
Old Blue School, but they proved to be the lull before the storm.
William Mackenzie's complaint in an 1827 Colonial Advocate
revealed a growing dissatisfaction with the Grammar School's
product:
York District School. — Although E 100 are allowed
to this district teacher, with a free school-house and
grounds &c. yet the enormous sum of $32 a year
(besides their books,) is asked in fees from day
scholars whose parents reside in the district, and
$40 from others. Only eight kin$ scholars are
educated. Such fees and such regulations in a
school where 60 scholars are admissable, may
make Parson Phillips live like a prince, but they
destroy the intention of the legislature, and shut the
door upon the children of common people,
farmers,
Later, a report by a Select Committee condemned all the
grammar schools of the province as failures, and stimulated
efforts towards a better system of education throughout York.*5
As a solution to the problem, Upper Canada College was
established in 1829. The two schools were •'amalgamated" under
the name, Upper Canada College and the Royal Grammar
School, and Rev. Phillips resigned to become its vice-principal.
George Anthony &rber, the asistant rnaster, becarne Toronto's first Public School
Superintendent in 1844, but he is best
as the "Father of Cricket in Upper
Courtesy: Toronto Board
Education Archives.
When Dr. Phillips came to York, he brought with him
George Anthony Barber, who became the assistant master and
introduced the boys to cricket on one hundred square feet of
cleared space beside the school. The game became so popular
throughout the province that Barber later received the
pseudonym, Father of Cricket in Upper Canada. He became
Toronto's first Public School Superintendent in 1844.
In 1829 the Horne District Grammar School was moved to the corner of
Nelson (Jarvis) and Stanley (Lombard) Streets. Such a location enabled
students to "raise Irish Town" , the neighbourhood to the east.
24

In August of that year the schoolhouse was moved to the
corner of Stanley (Lombard) and Nelson (Jarvis) Streets. To the
east was Irish Town, a row of dilapidated dwellings inhabited by
impoverished derelicts. For excitement the boys would "raise"
the area in what they considered to be a harmless, enjoyable
skirmish. In retaliation the enemy would hurl rocks, bottles and
other handy missiles in the direction of the schoolyard with
sufficient accuracy to effect an abrupt truce.
In 1831 Upper Canada College moved to its own brick
building on the corner of King and Simcoe Streets. For the next
three years the Royal Grammar School would exist only as an
unkempt, vacant structure. Fortunately for the history of Jarvis
Collegiate, the new system of education at Upper Canada
College was modeled after that of the English grammar schools
which practised the philosophy, "Only a classical education
should be given, and the classical master should teach English,
but nothing more of it than is absolutely necessary."*6 Many
parents wanted rnore emphasis placed on the teaching of
English, and they objected to the excessive use of "the cowhide
system", more commonly known as the strap. These verbal
complaints were reinforced in May, 1834, with a petition to
Lieutenant Governor Sir John Colborne, "praying" for the reopening
of the Royal Grammar School and signed by "a number
of respectable citizens". In the correspondence which followed, it
was decided that the trustees should acquire the site upon which
the school was located. Accordingly, by the end of the month, the
Royal Grammar School was again in operation, this time under
the mastership of Rev. Duncan MacAulay.
The amalgamation and subsequent separation of Upper
Canada College from the Royal Grammar School caused a
controversy which raged for twenty-five years and could be
summarized in one item: Who owned the plot of land located on
the east side of College Square upon which "Old Blue" stood? As
for the evidence, some of it was written, some of it was verbal,
some of it was "understood"; but all of it was confusing. The
original grant of land had been made in 1816 when College
Square (six acres of "block D") was set aside for the erection of a
grammar school. Only an order-in-council could transfer the
deed. Forty-three years later, the entire defence of the first
twenty-seven years of Grammar School history would rest on
this one point.
In 1829 some or all of the six acres of "block D" were
conveyed to the King's College Endowment Board to be held in
trust for Upper Canada College. According to Geor«y Ridout, it
was "understood" that the Grammar School untold be in
possession of the % acre upon which it stood. U.C.C. claimed no
such knowledge, and stressed that the deed received by them
included the entire six acres. In 1830 Upper Canada College sold
that portion of "block D" which was not in dispute and then
moved to the new location on Russell Square, leaving behind a
withered "Old Blue" which, for the next three years, would serve
only as "a depot for 'General Stock' — in other words, a
receptacle for Rags and Old Iron". "
I
2
3
4
5
6
7
Scadding, Henry, op. cit.
Scadding, Henry, op. cit.
Ibid.
"Mackenzie's Views on the Home District School," Colonial AdL.ocate
(August 16, 1827).
Cochrane, H. , Centennial Story (Toronto: Thomas Nelson & Sons, 1950).
The Globe (Jan. 16, 1869), and Year Book of the Toronto Gramrnar School,
1807-1897 (Toronto: The Bryant Press, 1897).
Scadding, Henry, op. cit.
25

superintends.*2
26
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situated
OW
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一 mastership 一
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through the door, the other through the window! Few teachers
stayed more than a year in any one position; it was only a
stepping stone to a better job." *4
In the autumn of 1836, for some unexplained reason,
MacAulay moved to the United States. His replacement, Charles
Cosens, became the first layman-master in the school's history.
For two years he served his apprenticeship while the faded "Old
Blue" gained the reputation of being "partly a humble rival of and
partly a preparatory school" for Upper Canada
In College.•s The
distinction remained for several decades. 1838 Charles
Cosens left "Old Blue" and realized his ambition of becoming an
instructor at the more prestigious U.C.C.
1 The name Rwal Grarnrnar School appears to have received little
Eceptance.
2 Chuetling of Portrait of Mr. Archibald MacMurchy. M.A. (Toronto: The
Association. 1902).
Toronto Grammar School Old Boys'
3 Unumling of Portrait Mr. Archibald MocMurchy, MA.. op. cit.
4 Cochrane, op. cit Marcellus Christophdus Crombie. an Irishman, taught in Montreal for eighteen years
before rrovtng to Toronto in 1838.
5
27

CHAPTER 5
Crombie faced a grim situation while preparing
notice for the school's opening in 1839, The poor quality of
the lethargy of udents and the indifference of parents
had r«ulted in an jnfenor grammar school system throughout
Uptvt Canada. Depression. disease and ignorance were
and commonplace. An unfavourable economy
contributed to the lack of interest among parents and students.
Outing the 1830's there was an upsurge in immigration to
Amenca by the Insh. who wished to escape the potato famines,
and by the English, who detested the Industrial Revolution.
who survived the voyage across the At lantic brought with
thorn cholera and were greeted with poverty. In many instances
children were forced to work, Even wealthy landowners could
not prevent thetr progeny from growing up ignorant and boorish,
and from occupying a far lower mental, moral and social position
than they themselves held." Any efforts to improve education
"Wt with resistance due to the selfishness of the ruling class and
the of the lower.
Despite all obstacles, Marcellus Crombie was determined
to establish a respectable grammar school. In an appeal for
scholars he placed the follmving advertisement in the Upper
Canada Gazette on January 17. 1839:
(CIRCC1..tt,•.)
The nonte
School.
'Il IS School, ogreealily to previous
will be to-opened 00
Thursday. in I)istriet
in •Ibis City, under su:vet•
intendance of C. C Ito.stotr:.
presenting Inn•sell', in his oilieial capacity.
to Iliis
cotunntnitv, and in
a 'Larc pat' ona;e, Mr. C,
bt•.•• leave intimate, that
Of
been
an approccd and a
in
in
al
G' School; -Master ot• the
• for
M01.trcaI Acadctnic Setninnty
thc last three ve.-us and
of Prince Edward Dist'ict Scljno'.—-
As soon as School svatrant (lie
ses, cnmpctcnt Assistants, French and
Drawing Masters, witl bc engaged.
CARD OF STUDIES, TERMS, sc.
srt-mr.s
English, Spelling and Rending,
Mental Arithtnetic, and Latin,
for the fust year...
English Spelling nod Reading,
Writing, Practical A i'itlnnetic.
and Book-keeping ; . English
Grammar, English Conjposition,and
Elocu:ion ; Geographi',
Ancient and ;
Construction of Use
of the Globes; Civil and Natural
Ilistory ; Elements ot• Astronomy
; L'itilj and Greek
Classics; Euclid ; Aluebra,
1 10 0
Fuel for the Winter Season
Contingencies
The full quarter chajgcd, if the Pupil
is once entered.
28

No deduction but for sickness.
Ilours of attendance, in the
Season, frotn 9 to 12, . and
to 3, P.M., and
fiom
in
1
the Sununej•
from 9 to 12, and
Season,
frotn 2 to 4.
in the Summer
Ilolidavs,
Season, six weeks; and
thc Winter Season,
in
two weeks.
By order of the Board of
M. C. CROMBIE,
Principal.
Toronto, 7th Janu4ry, 1839. 35-n
Printed by R. STANTON, PI inter to the
QUEEN'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY.
This advertisement was placed in the January 17, 1839,
Upper Canada Gazette to announce the re-opening of
the Home District Grammar School.
Courtesy: Ontario Archives.
A contrasting notice was published in the same newspaper
in October of that year.
A seminary for the instruction of Young
Ladies, will be opened Monday, the 16th instant,
under the Superintendance of Mrs. Crombie. In
this Seminary wül be taught all the useful, polite,
and ornamental branches of a female education
Although Crombie maintained what standards he could,
his students were unable to gain direct entry into the university.
During his tenure. however. several acts were passed in an effort
to upgrade the quality of education. The School Act of 1844
established a provincial grant which was to be paid to the local
school board, on condition that the municipalities raise an equal
amount by local assessment. Egerton Ryerson's School Act of
1846 created a provincial Normal School for the training of
teachers, described the subjects to be taught and provided for
uniform textbooks.
A regrettable financial crisis developed early in 1848 which
temporarily halted Ryerson's efforts for free, compulsory
education. The Board of Education had only sufficient funds to
operate the grammar schools for six months. An appeal to City
Council for more funds was denied, leaving the trustees with no
alternative but to close the schools. In June Crombie's class of
120 scholars was dismissed indefinitely. *4 For the next year City
Council persisted in refusing aid to solve the conflict.
In the midst of this crisis, yet another erupted. Shortly
after midnight on April 7, 1849, startled sleepers were awakened
by shouts of "Fire!" and anxious tolling from St. James' belfry.
The sound was alarming and the vie..v from their windows,
equally frightening. The city's east end appeared to be one huge
fireball and, overhead, blazing shingles twisted westward. The
situation at College Square seemed hopeless as the Cathedral
was destroyed after a shingle landed on its spire. But, fortunately,
"Old Blue" was well situated away from other buildings; a sudden
rainfall and the arrival of troops to reinforce the e*hausted fire
brigade saved it from Toronto's First Great Fire. On July 1, 1849,
the school re-opened, free to all, and remained so until February.
Fees ranging from 3/9d to 5 shillings, according to age, were
charged for the summer half of the year, and from 5 shillings to
6/3d for the winter half. *5
As one problem was solved, another appeared. Women
accused educational authorities of disregarding their needs. In
response to a complaint concerning the lack of schools for
women, one was opened in 1852; but when the ladies demanded
the right to teach, they were almost completely ignored. Those
who were hired received much less pay because, unlike their
counterparts, they were not required to know advanced
mathematics and bookkeeping. *6 Although women who later
graduated from Normal School passed the same examinations as
the men, their equal qualifications did not entitle them to equal
responsibilities and salaries. This inconsistency led to a major
conflict in the 1890's in which women unsuccessfully demanded
equal pay for equal work.
29

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Despite rote-learning, recitation, ungraded classes,
uncomfortable backless benches and poor lighting, students
profited under the tutelage of Marcellus Crombie for fourteen
years. In December, 1852, he died and was buried in St. James'
Cemetery
following the funeral service which took place in the
school.*7 His son, Ernestus, who had been the first assistant,
applied for the post vacated by his father, but on New Year's Eve
the Board rejected his application and resolved:
That Mr. E.N.A. Crombie be continued in his
present situation and have charge of the school till
further action be taken by the Board and that the
school be opened at the usual time after Christmas
vacation. and that a committee be appointed to
consider what changes be made tn the staff of the
Grammar School .
Rev. Jennings presented the committee's report to the
Board in March, whereupon it was decided to hire one headmaster
and one assistant. Dr. Michael Howe of Galt was
appointed principal in April, 1853, and William Clark became his
assistant. €9
i.
1 Durham, Lord, Report on the Affairs of British North America.
2 "The Home District School," Upper Canada Gazette (Jan. 17, 1839).
3 Upper Canada Gazette (Oct. 10, 1839).
4 Hodgins, J.G ., Documentary History of Education in Upper Canada, 1835-
1855, (Toronto: L.K. Cameron, 1894-1908).
5 Cochrane, H., op. cit.
6 Hodgins, J.G., op. cit.
7 The Globe (Dec. 23, 1852). Most Jarvis histories record the death of Mr.
Crombie in 1853, but 1852 is correct.
8 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Education (Dec. 31, 1852).
9 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Education (March l, March
22, April 7, 1853).
Rev, Dr. Michael Howe, who became headmaster in 1853, was a tall
gentleman who had acquired a rubicund nose due to many years of
snuffing. His forced resignation in 1863 was due to •'rumours affecting
his character".
31

CHAPTER 6
When Dr. Michael Howe, the new headmaster, moved to
Toronto, the city was experiencing a decade of unprecedented
change. Everything from business to brothels, industry to
unemployment and huge railways to petty theft underwent
expansion. The emergence of Toronto's first capitalists from the
prosperous middle class paralleled the opening of new banks
which competed for a share of the profits. The cost of living, the
number of taverns and acts of crime all soared. From 1857 to
1860 one out of every nine of Toronto's 45,000 inhabitants
appeared in court to face charges related to theft or drunkenness
As a possible solution to the problem, citizens advocated
"free" schools, arguing that "Schoolhouses are better public
investments than Penitentiaries or Jarls."*2
Chief Justice Hagarty offered the following explanation:
Any person acquainted with the lowest classes of
our poor is aware of the extreme difficulty in
inducing them to let their children attend school.
They wül keep thern from school to gather wood for
fuel, to beg from door to door, in short, to do
anything in preference to sending them to school
It is from this class that our young criminals
spring.•s
The public was not ready, however, to invest more
money in the struggling educational system in an attempt to
reduce the crime rate. So, the "free" school movement had to
wait. Superintendent Barber, one of its exponents and a former
"Old Blue" teacher, in frustration after admitting that
schools were "inefficient, undisciplined, costly, and comparatively
fruitless."*4
In College Square a dilapidated, high board fence had
been erected to block the sight of nearby brothels from the
school playground. It ran along the south boundary to Nelson
(Jarvis) Street, then north to March Street, and finally, west to a
row of old wooden houses which lined the yard's western limit.
Within the fenced area neither trees nor grass were visible.
Whether from boredom or curiosity, the students devised a
popular game called "prisoner's base" in which they, the
prisoners, peeked through the cracks and holes in the fence in
order to watch the activities of March Street. "At that time it had
a reputation for squalor, dirt and crime which none of its
successors in Toronto have attempted to rival."*6
Although the gables of the weather-beaten schoolhouse
still faced east and west, the interior had changed somewhat
since its opening in 1816. The entrance on the north-west corner,
which was protected by a large porch, faced the playground, and
the upper storey was the headmaster's residence. Strachan's
single classroom had been divided into two small rooms (one for
English class, the other for mathematics) and a larger main room.
Each of the former accommodated twenty boys who sat along
the wall with their backs to the teacher. The only furniture was a
circular blackboard which turned freely on a pivot. In the main
room were two or three lumbering desks about 16 feet long with
double slopes. Along the south and east walls were fixed desks.
"The uneven floor sadly interfered with the steadiness of the long
forms on which the boys sat during their
The
classroom's focal point was a huge box stove which could hold
several five-foot sticks of wood. "On very cold days it was difficult
to heat the building, and not uncommon for the masters and
pupils to gather around it to keep themselves
Additional details of the interior were recalled by George
MacDonald:
Here, except for etchings, caused by the
absence of plaster here and there, a few wrinkled
rusty looking maps and a few festoons of cobwebs
in the darker corners were some of the features
that impressed themselves on the memory. The
fumiture consisted principally of an old box stove
and pipes of a bright red color except where the
heat had bumed the rust off the sides and top of the
stove and the lowermost length of pipe, and forms
and desks all constructed of the comrnonest pine
32

wood, innocent of paint, but wonderfully carved
with the names or initials of more than one
generation of boys, and artistically or otherwise
elaborately ornamented with scrolls and caricatures
wrought by the industrious hands of the boys
aforesaid and blotched with ink, blue, black and
red, though the softening influence of time had
mezzotinted them to a rusty brown. The rest of the
paraphernalia was a small table with a hand bell and
ferule upon it for the rector's use and a tarnished
terrestrial globe. *9
The new headmaster, Dr. Michael Howe, was a tall, spare
man crowned with thin, iron-grey hair, and adorned with a
rubicund nose (the result of many years of snuffing) which was
"surmounted by a pair of gold spectacles, that did not prevent
him from holding his book too close to his After
graduating from Trinity College, Dublin, he was appointed
principal of the Belfast Academic Institution. In July, 1851 he
came to Canada and resumed his career as headmaster o/ the
Cayuga Grammar School, and later, the Galt Grammar School.
He took up his post at "Old Blue" in 1853.
Although Dr. Howe was basically kind-hearted and
"willing to coach a promising boy in his study after hours, there
were times when he was irritable, especially if the class was illprepared
or more than usually dense, when the strokes of the
bamboo on the outstretched legs before him were as continuous
as the questions asked. It is said that at one time, after
administering the stick once round the class, he pitched his book
at them, telling them that they were a set of ignorant dolts, and
left them in disgust.
His assistants usually moved on to other endeavours after
spending only a few years in the school. One of them, Mr.
Drinkwater, who was a Cambridge man and English master,
"had an abundance of straight hair overhanging a face deeply
pitted but marked with resolution ... The very sound of his
English boots announced the master, and woe betide the boy
who trifled after his entrance." *12 He later resigned to enter the
ministry. Another instructor, Dr. Archibald MacMurchy, who
joined the staff in 1857, ultimately served as rector of the school
for twenty-eight years.
The teacher who created the most controversy was Mr.
C.R. Brooke, an English and history master. In August, 1855, the
Board heard a letter from a parent, Dr. Lett, bringing a charge
against Mr. Brooke "for teaching the Boys opinions on Scripture
History tending to throw discredit on His Scriptures. 13
After its enquiry, the Board passed the following resolution:
Having investigated the charges, the trustees are
pained to find from the evidence addressed, that in
teaching the history class, Mr. Brooke has indulged
in a strain of remarks highly unbecoming in itself
and fitted to be prejudicial to the pupils as tending
to weaken their reverence for the teaching of the
Old Testimonial Scriptures as a divine inspired
record; and that allusions were made by him of an
improper kind and expressions employed calculated
to familiarize the minds of his pupils with
improper thoughts. In consequence of this conduct
on the part of Mr. Brooke, he has forfeited the
confidence of the Board, and it is with no small
difficulty they can refrain from visiting such
conduct with the penalty of his immediate dismissal
from the school. They resolve and hereby notify to
him that his connexion with the school shall cease
and determine at the expiration of six months from
this date.
The oldest possession in the Jarvis Collegiate Archives is
the stained, but elegant 1855 County Grammar School
Programme which was illustrated by the aforementioned,
blasphemous Mr. Brooke a few months before he was dismissed
by the Board. The colours have faded from its beautiful border,
but the ornate quill-pen designs are still impressive. They include
mythical characters, cherubs and a beehive. The actual timetable
in it shows five one-hour periods per day with an hour and a half
for lunch. The first and second divisions of form I took grammar
and composition, reading and spelling, writing, Latin, natural
history, geography and arithmetic. Algebra and geometry were
added to the curriculum in form Il. The form Ill course included
Greek, elocution, and geology. Students in the "university
grade" studied Latin for two hours each day and natural
philosophy or mathematics in the third hour. They did not attend
school in the afternoon. Beneath the program's lower border is
the signature, "C.R. Brooke fecit Sep yr. 1855."
33

34
The September, 1855 programme for the Toronto Grammar School was designed by Mr. C.R.
Brooke who was fired at the end of the school year for blasphemy.

CO ⅱ 上 6ま1 亡 INS ↑ー 第 を
Ⅷ 而 ざ 卸 15
//ノた
/クカ
Each scholarship winner also received a parchment certificate similar to that shown above Which was won by Bethune Cockburn in 1889.
Unfortunately. M 「. Cockburn died the following year as a result Of a tooth extraction.
Courtesy: Agnes Tuer.

Some of the textbooks used in the school at the time
were: Thomson's Arithmetic, Morse's School Geography,
Collot's French Grammar and Exercises, The Latin and Greek
Grammars of the Edinburgh Academy and the everlasting Euclid
(Geometry). *15 Until lhe 1850's the university had considered
the grammar schools to be "largely elementary schools for the
wealthier classes", and their graduates not sufficiently educated
to cope with university work. *16 King's College depended upon
Upper Canada College for many of its freshmen, while Victoria
Thus most students who wished to attend the University of
Toronto had to travel one of these two routes. Dr. James Louden
was one example. Before entering university, he attended the
Grammar School and then transferred to U.C.C. where he
completed his high school education. He later served as
president of the University of Toronto from 1892 to 1906.
In 1854 William Rattray won a scholarship in classics and
history to become the first Grammar School graduate to gain
direct entry into the university. He later was a successful
journalist and editor for the Toronto Mail. After Rev. Richard
Harrison won the same scholarship in 1858, the school began to
attain status.
A year later "Old Blue" changed its name to the Senior
Grammar School in Toronto, but was usually referred to as the
Toronto Grammar School.
Entrance examinations were begun in 1860. The seven
boys who attained the best results were granted free admission
to the Grammar School for two years, with a possible extension
to four years. Such an award was truly coveted, as it was the only
means enabling many to attend high school. Tuition fees were a
luxury few could afford.
By March of that year, the time had come to consider the
future of the faded and battered old schoolhouse. Dean Grasett,
Chairman of the Board, wrote to Mayor Charles Daly requesting
a grant for the construction of a new school claiming, "The
building which is one of the oldest in the city is in a state of
complete dilapidation, and the Trustees have no funds at their
disposal to remedy the Evil."*18
When Joseph Sheard from City Hall investigated the
matter, he agreed, "I find [the school] entirely unfit, even for
occupancy with safety and in a condition that the attempt to
repair would be entirely useless." *19"Old Blue" was doomed! It
would be abandoned in 1864.
That aging dispute with Upper Canada College again
arose in April, 1854, when the University of Toronto Endo
Board, on behalf of U.C.C., claimed possession of all of tott
D". The Board advised the Grammar School to vacate the
the university planned to sell a portion of land which included
twenty feet of the school premises. The controversy climaxed
auctioneer began to take bids on the school site. Two trustees
Rev. John Barclay and Rev. John Jennings were present. Bar lay:
recalled, "We were rather uncertain how to act, but when bids
were called for we thought it necessary, being advised to do so by
a legal gentleman then in the room, the present Chancellor of
Upper Canada, Mr. Van Koughnet, to state openly how we
considered the matter to stand and that we had a claim on the
property. This put an end to the sale. The property was
withdrawn."*21 If that sale had been completed and allowed to
stand, Jarvis Collegiate would have lost the first twenty-seven
years of its history. As it was, the matter remained unsettled.
Later that year Rev. Barclay journeyed to the capital and
presented a petition to Lord Elgin. It was passed on to the
Attorney-General who concluded that the Grammar School had
a "moral claim", and "that as the institution was in existence it
ought not to be dispossessed of its property," and that the lands
in question should be confirmed to the Grammar School.*22
It wasn't until September 10, 1858, that the dispute ended
The Executive Council consisting of Sir John A. Macdonald, Sir
George E. Cartier, Chancellor Van Koughnet, Sir A.T. Galt, Mr.
Sicotte and Mr. Sherwood passed the following order:
After referring to "Letters on behalf of the Trustees
of the Grammar School, upon the subject of that
portion of 'block D' in the City of Toronto, which is
in dispute between Upper Canada College and that
Grammar School" and to an extract from the
minutes of the Senate of Toronto University, who
concur in the settlement of the dispute, the
recommendation of the Attorney General for
36

Upper Canada is approved by Council and it is
ordered that "the remainder of 'block D' be granted
to the Grammar School in Toronto for purposes of
such school "*23
In April, 1859, David Buchan conveyed to the trustees of
the Grammar School a deed for "four lots at the north-west
corner of Adelaide and Nelson streets, having a frontage of 104
feet on Adelaide street by a depth of 180 feet on Nelson street,
running through to Stanley street." *24 The case was closed
twenty-five years after it had begun, but the topic remained a
popular subject of debate for a century.
Today, the existing evidence in the case is biased,
conflicting and incomplete. Nevertheless, some facts are certain:
when U.C.C. broke away from the Grammar School, it inherited
the staff, fifty-seven students and much of College Square. The
old schoolhouse, the name "Royal Grammar School" and a
corner of College Square were inherited by the predecessor of
Jarvis Collegiate.
On July 1, 1863, the following item was entered into the
Board minutes:
The Board having considered the case of the Head
Master in regard to the rumours • affecting his
character, it was resolved that the subject be
further considered at an early period and that the
Chairman do acquaint Dr. Howe with this their
determination that he may prove himself accordingly.*2s
At the next Board meeting a letter was received from Dr.
Howe "resigning his situation of Head Master, but asking
reasonable time to make arrangements." The minutes continued:
"Resolved that the resignation be accepted and take
effect at the termination of the present year."*26
Three years later Dr. Howe moved to Australia where he
became principal of Newington College, New South Wales.
f&Eth
THERE wili be exposed ror Sale by Public Aucffon on
WEDNESDAY, the Third day of May next, atTWELVF,
o'clock, noon, in the Sale Rootag of Messrs. WAKEFIELD
Canada &
CC.'.T%, the rollowlug lots, the property of Upper
Collcge, viz.
No. 9 on the south side of Richmond Street, Vijoining
the Roman Catholic School ;
And No. 3 on the south Bide of Stanley Street, c little to
the East or Church Stréet. Each of •these lots measures 52
feet in front, by 90 feet in depth.
—ALSO,—
Lotg 1 and 2, north or A •elaide Street, and pn the west
Bide of Nelson Street, with the buildings thereon, being the
premises lately occupied by the Central School. Theæ
104 lots
taken together measure 90 feet on Nelson Street, by feet
on Adelaide Street.
—ALSO,—
Five on the south west corner qf the intersection of
College Street with Spadina Avenue, each lot measuring 06
feet in front by 198 in depth. Four-of these Lots front on
Spadina Avenue, and one on Co!lege Street. Taken together
they form a block measuring an acre and a quarter, and
furnish a gross frontage or 264 fe)t to each Street.
—AT THE SAME TIME,—
The north 20 aeros Oi the gouth half of Lot 34, in ClonoeAsion
B, in the Township oc Scarborough, will be offered for
sale. This piece 0' land forms part or the Vniversity F,ndowment,
and is distant from the city obont 5 miles.
An upset priee wilt be named. The terrn• payment
will be made known at the Sale.
DAVID BUCHAN,
Bursar.
Bursar's Offee,.Uuiversity & College
at Toronto, April 8th, 1854.
The notice by the University of Toronto Bursar on behalf of Upper
Canada College for the purpose of selling the Central School was also an
attempt to sell a section of land which belonged to the Toronto Grammar
School. The Central School possessed only 70 feet of property fronting on
Nelson Street, the Grammar School Board owned the rest.
Courtesy: Public Archives of Canada.
i
37

0 JI 1 8 X C L L E N C Y
OF
R E P 0 R T
COMMITTEE OF THE
P E S T :

どイ7 ・/ 冖 0
れマな/ ′ 乙 ・
ゞ んノ
ノノれれ. んノ(
乙
7ィて々。・ノに/ / /
“ イ? マにイん イ 乙 /“ ?れ“ ・/な 乙 ん/ / 乙
-れ′ み
を~ び-ノフ/ (み-ツれ′イ 人 / ′・な
′ん/ん. 豸 :ノ
The Report Of the Executive council Committee awarded a
ending the twenty ・f0 町 ・dispute with Upper Canada College
Couれをsy: public 月 「( ん” 可 Canada.
ⅲon
、
ock ・D ' the Grammar hooーon September 10.18 市 。5
39

1 Cochrane, H.. op. cit.
2 Report No. 25, by Superintendent George Barber to the Chairman and
Members of the Board of School Trustees (Dec. I, 1857).
3 Hodgins, G Historical and Other Papers and Documents Illustrative of the
Educational System in Ontario, 1792-1853 (Toronto: LK. Cameron, 1911).
4 Cochrane, H., op. cit.
5 Bain, Dr. James, "The Grammar School in the Fifties," The Magnet (1907).
6 Ibid.
7 Bain, Dr. James, op. cit.
8 Miller, Rev. A.E., "Recollections of the Old Toronto Grammar School.
1854-7." Toronto Grammar School Year Book, 1807-1897. op. cit.
9 MacDonald, G.S., "The Old Grammar School," The Standard (Jan. 25,
1902).
10 Bain, Dr. James, op. cit.
11 Bain, Dr. James. op. cit.
12 Bain, Dr. James, op. cit.
13 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Educatön, 1851-1872 (Aug.
27, 1855).
14 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Educatbn, 1851-1872 (Dec.
10, 1855).
15 Miller, Rev. A.E., op. cit.
16 Miller, Rev. AE, op. cit.
17 Langton, H.H., University 1827-1906 (Toronto:
University of Toronto, 1906).
18 Minutes, Toronto Grarnrnar School Board of Educatbn (March 9, 1860).
19 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Education (October 8, 1860).
20 The portion of land to be sold feet fronting on Nelson
Street, of which seventy feet belonged to the Central School and the
rernainder was owned by the Old Blue School bcated immediately to the
north of it. Part of the school building rested on the area to be auctioned off.
21 The Globe (Jan. 16, 1869).
22 The Globe (Jan. 16, 1869).
23 Report of a Committee of the Executive Council (Sept. 6, 1858).
24 The Globe (Jan. 16, 1869).
25 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Education (July 1, 1863).
26 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Education (July 24, 1863).
Rev. Arthur Wickson served as the rector of the Grammar School from 18&3 to 1872
He resigned due to illness, a condition which partially resulted from the insubordination
of Mrs. Howe, the first woman teacher in the school's history.
40

CHAPTER 7
Toronto's rapid expansion in the 1850's continued
throughout the next decade with the opening of Eaton's,
Simpson's and Union Station. A growing population of wealthy
citizens could afford to purchase the latest fashions such as snow
shoes and hoop skirts. Women teachers continued to clamor for
equal rights as their salaries ranged from only $220 to $400 per
year; for the same work men earned from $550 to $700 per year.
Rev. Arthur Wickson was the last minister to be
appointed rector of the Grammar School. Prior to 1863 he had
graduated from the University of Toronto and had served as
University College registrar. He may not have been as colourful
as his predecessors, but his diligence, coupled with a progressive
attitude, enabled the school to evolve without abandoning
beneficial traditions.
In January, 1864, "Old Blue" was vacated for more
favourable quarters on Dalhousie Street. There is no record of
any fond farewells to the former barn and its dubious environs.
After being boarded up, it was allowed to withstand the weather
for five more years before it was sold for $4,250 and demolished.
The money was eventually used to purchase the site at 361 Jarvis
Street.
The Dalhousie Street schoolhouse contained three
classrooms as shown in the plan below. The lot was enclosed by
Gould, Mutual and Dalhousie Streets and a north wall. *1
PLAYORouNO,
S—
TORONTO
— aero
From 1864 to 1870 the school was located on Dalhousie Street just north
of Gould Street.
3
n!
The most significant event of 1864 was the founding of
The Toronto Grammar School Mental Improvement Society,
better known as the "Lit." Although membership was restricted
to students in the two highest forms, for the first time in the
school's history an extra-curricular activity had been organized.
It was the forerunner of all the social, athletic and special interest
groups which would be established at Jarvis Collegiate. For
several years the "Lit." sponsored debates, essay readings and
recitations. After a year of inactivity, the "Lit." was revived in
1867 by a group of senior students including Fred Manley, who
later became the school's principal. It also received a new name,
"The Debating and Literary Society". Meetings took place once a
week, and were presided over by each of the masters in turn. The
essence of its success were debates and the perennial
41

encouragement of mathematics master, Archibald MacMurchy.
Today the "Lit." no longer exists, but its longevity of sixty years
remains unchallenged by any other school organization.
During Dr. Wickson's rectorship there was a steady
increase in the number of graduates gaining direct entry into the
University of Toronto. Among those who won admission
scholarships were Alfred Baker (1865) and Fred Manley (1870).
Baker also earned a gold medal in mathematics from University
College and later retired from that institution as a professor. Girls
reappeared in the school in 1865 after an absence of fifty-eight
years. They were allowed to study only French, and the school
received no provincial grant for their attendance.
In March, 1869, the appointed Board of Education met to
consider new sites for the already bulging Grammar School. A
Building Committee, consisting of Rev. Barclay, Col. Dennison,
Mr. Greenless and Sheriff Frederick William Jarvis, spent the
remainder of that year searching unsuccessfully for a suitable
location.
On December 29th the following entry was made into the
Board minutes:
The Committee looking into the purchase of the
Dixon House found that "it would not be suitable".
The Board agreed. Sheriff Jarvis, on invitation of
the committee approved, and offered his lot on
Jarvis Street, and explained it by plan. — Cost
$5,000 - $2,750 mortgage at
On the next day the statement below was entered into the
minutes:
Another meeting called for consideration and this
proposal from Sheriff Jarvis in respect to the Jarvis
Street Lots.
Moved by Mr. Jarvis that the sum of $8,256 be
paid for lots submitted by Sheriff Jarvis as per plan
laid before the Board. (11 lots) to be paid as
follows: Three sums of $1,920 dollars in three
instalments and $920 as a fourth instalment.
Interest at 6%.*4
In 1870 temporary quarters were found in a vacant asylum where the Parliament Building's
east wing now stands.
42

With the task of locating a site for the Grammar School's
new building now completed, the trustees could devote their
attention to a more immediate problem: 150 students were
crammed into a three-room schoolhouse and a rising enrolment
was expected. The Dalhousie site couldn't suffice for another
year.
As an interim measure, the Board applied to. the
University of Toronto's Senate for temporary use of the vacant
old asylum located at Queen's Park (present location of the
parliament Building's east wing). In its reply the Senate set a
rental fee of $170 per year which the trustees found acceptable.
So Dr. Wickson quickly packed, moved into the edifice during
Easter Week, 1870, and remained there until the summer of the
following year.
The School Act of 1871 brought about major reforms in
education. Compulsory attendance for persons between the
ages of seven and twelve became law and would be enforced.
Grammar schools were obligated to accept both boys and girls
who passed the semi-annual entrance exam. Changes in the
curriculum made the study of Latin and Greek optional and
added the following courses: agricultural chemistry, English
composition, French, German, music and linear drawing.
Another clause in the Act changed the name of the Grammar
School to Toronto High School. Summer vacation was extended
from July 1st to August 15th. The overall effects of the School
Act were soon evident: attendance soared, financial problems
eased and education gained respect.
Efforts were also under way to make textbooks more
distinctively Canadian. Teachers were advised to use the
Canadian Spelling Book, Smith and MacMurchy's Arithmetic,
and Hodgin's Canadian History.
In August the trustees advertised for a "Lady Superintendent
of the Female Department", whose salary would be $500
per year. *6 Mrs. Howe, the successful applicant and abandoned
wife of the former principal, became the first woman teacher in
the school's history.
The new building at 361 Jarvis Street, just south of
College Street, opened on September 15, 1871, with such little
hurrah that it was not even worthy of newspaper copy.
ne07,
This granite marker was placed in the foundation of the "old schcx)l" when it was
tute. The marker is now located in the rotunda at 495 Jarvis Street.
Photo: Fallis Stafford.
43

The first photograph of the new Toronto High School was taken in 1871 at 361 Jarvis Street.
Courtesy: Toronto Board of Education Archives.

Consequently, neither the delight With the overdue, ü'0-storey,
spacious square box, nor the reaction to the women secured in
the basennent's north classroom were ever recorded. But Dr.
Wtckson gave an indication of his fears when he published a new
dictum:
There must be no communication between the
pupils Of the two departments of the school. *7
The building- itself served as a deterrent to debauchery.
Only teachers were permitted to pass through the basement's
double doors which separated the Male and Female Departments.
Even the outdoor play areas were divided by a high, board
face. Despite such precautions, the deprived demons and
damsels found a way: at an opening in the fence separating the
two yards was the common water pump. It had two handles
which operated simultaneously. When a boy pumped one
handle, water rose in the single shaft and then gushed forth from
two spouts, one on each side of the fence. Here, amid slurps and
splashes, lad and lassie shared notes and whispers.
It is not known how many girls attended that first year, but
the Board's financial gains were minimal. For purposes of the
provincial grant, two girls counted as one boy — a fact which
pleased neither trustees nor women!
Parents wasted little time before complaining about the
new superintendent. In February, 1872, Thomas McKay
confronted trustees and censured Mrs. Howe for her "methods
of punishing children". Other letters revealed a lack of discipline
among the staff as well as students. *8 A week later Dr. Wickson
suspended three boys and fired a teacher. Three other boys
withdrew.
At the next Board meeting the trustees tried to help the
rector gain authority over Mrs. Howe. They resolved:
In April, Dr. Wtckson sent a letter to the Board informing
The trustees granted him a one-month leave of absence- At the
same meeting "a conference with Mr. MacMurchy [the first
mathematical master] then took place as to his acceptance. It
was resolved that Mr. MacMurchy be placed in charge of the
school in the absence of the Rector on leave granted by the
Board. "*11 As Dr. Wickson's ill health never permitted him to
resume his duties, he resigned and subsequently moved to
London, England where he worked for many years wåth the
Christian Instruction Society.
1 The Evening (Nov. 2, 122).
2 Year Book of the Toronto Grarnmar Schod, 1807-107 (Toronto: The
Bryant PrßS, 1897), and "Our Literary Society, IW1907," The
(1907).
3 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of (Dec- B, 1869).
4 Minuts, Toronto Grammar School Board of Educatön (Dec- 30, 1869).
5 Cochrane, H., op. cit.
6 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Board of Education (Aug. 18, 1871).
7 Wickson, Dr. A, Toronto High Reations for Pupils.
8 Minutß, Toronto Hgh School of Education (Feb. 20, 1872).
9 Minutes, Toronto High Scyool Board of Education (Mar. 6, 1872).
10 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Apr. 29, 1872).
Il Minutß, Toronto High School Board of Education (Apr. 29, 1872).
(1)There must be proper discipline in the school.
(2)The Rector must have full power and authority over the
management of the school.
(3)Mrs. Howe must be informed that she must subject
herself to the Rector in reference to the management
of the school. *9
45

the Toronto Model School. In 1857 he began his fort(Hhree year
career at "Old Blue" His appointment as rector 'JIGS, "the Old
Wreck") in October, 1872, marked the first time that the honour
had been awarded to someone other than a classics master.%
CHAPTER 8
A worldwide recession was about to take place when Dr.
Archibald MacMurchy became rector, and the growing poverty
only aggravated the truancy problem. Some parents kept their
children at home because they could afford neither clothing nor
tuition fees. Others sent their offspring to work or to gather
wood. Meanwhile, the indulgent rich occupied themselves with
such innovations as the bustle, tin bath tubs, telephones and
moustache cups. When some of Toronto's 60,000 citizens
wanted to be wicked they indulged in cards, cosmetics or that
filthy new dance, "The Blue Danube"!
Toronto High School also had its share of innovations,
particularly in 1872. Girls wrote the entrance exams for the first
time in June. Henceforth six boys and six girls would win free
admission to form I. The Visitors' Book, which began collecting
autographs in November, 1872, is still preserved in the school
archives and is periodically resurrected to receive proof of
another dignitary's visit. When Governor-General Jules Léger
came to Jarvis in 1975, he was almost upstaged by the tattered
treasure as he placed his signature beneath that of Lord
Lansdowne who had signed it in 1887.
No rector or principal has received more praise, respect
and criticism than Dr. Archibald MacMurchy. During his twentyeight
years as rector, the school earned its reputation as one of
the best in the province, and had no equal in mathematics. An
immigrant from Argyleshire, Scotland, Dr. MacMurchy spoke
his native Gaelic only on special occasions — in his sleep and in
reaction to a poor golf shot. *1 While employed on a farm near
Hillsburg, Ontario, a traveller encouraged him to obtain an
education. He returned to school and eventually graduated from
the University of Toronto as a medallist in mathematics. After
opening the first Collingwood Public School in 1855, he moved to
Dr. Archibald MacMurchv joined the Grammar
mathematics instructor in
School
1857 and became
staff
its
as
rector
a
the school an admirable
in
reputation.
1872.
but
He gave
aversion
tarnished
to female teachers.
his
Not
own
one
due
woman
to an
attended his retirement
46

Above all, Dr. MacMurchy believed in
considered him too severe, others
discipline.
described
Some
him as
just". To Alfred Marling he was firm.
"strict, but
efficient and one
honoured and somewhat feared
"whom all
Beneath the
many claimed to perceive a
stern
warmth exterior
and fondness
people. As Sir Sam Hughes phrased
for
it,
young
"What I like
that he can look severe out of
about
a him
kindly is
eve." •s J. Hodgins
praised him as "the grcat prophet of the high school world.""
But Archibald MacMurchy had his weaknesses.
believed that women should enter
He
neither teaching nor politics,
and to make matters worse, he was reluctant to
Consequently, a great career
retire.
which should have ended
gloriously. was concluded almost tragically in the midst of a
decline in discipline, enrolment and respect. Fortunately, in 1902
the Old Boys' Association placed his forty.three years in their
proper and remarkable perspective.
Shortly after Dr. MacMurchy began his career as rector,
he shared his reputation as a harsh disciplinarian with another
master, Major Fred Manley. Professor Fairchild of the University
of Missouri recalled:
He was the mathernatical terror of the day. We
scratched problerns on our slates, and scars on our
tender hearts, all with the same strokes. If we did
not get the required number of problems done. we
were thrust into the guard-house after four, and
made to work to their conclusion problems that
hadn't any end. The discipline was good for us
though, and we always knew that our teacher was a
master in his line. *7
J.V. McAree described him as:
the most outstanding personality on the staff.
He was a red-faced man with a caustic tongue and
obviously pleased to use it. He persistently called us
(my brother and I) "McGarry", not because he did
not know better, but because it obviously annoyed
us
In April, 1873, the Board received an application from the
rector to have the school renamed the "Toronto Collegiate
Institute". At that time any school with four or more masters and
having at least sixty boys studying Latin and/or Greek could be
given such a title plus the additional government grant. It wasn't
until December, however, that the Board received the order-incouncil,
signed by Lieutenant-Governor William Howland, which
permitted the Toronto High School to be reclassified.
Miss Emily Thompson. Lady Superintendent from 1874 to 1895.
47

repgi.Si REPORT
COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE.
1870,
Janie Thomas' report card of 1876. Janie Thomas' report card of 1877.
49

When Sam Hughes joined the Collegiate staff in 1875 he
was a mere
year old "chalk nibbler" from
to establish discipline, he literally lifted the first victim from his
seat by the ear. Mrs. E.B. Reesor reminisced:
Sam Hughes instructed in a number of
subjects, and his classes were a blessed relief after
the humdrum of orthodox classrooms.
Literature was one of his subjects that year
and Coriolanus one of the text books.
"Shakespeare — huh?" read Sam Hughes,
from the armchair of his desk. "Who was
Shakespeare? Never was such a man. Bacon wrote
this."
He waited for dissention: if it came, he was in
his element; if not, he would dig further to uproot
beliefs. He loved controversy, and, by controversy
he taught. and taught so mightily well that nothing
was ever forgotten. He would make all sorts of
contradictory statements, and when pupils rose in
indig-lation, he would say: "Well, what's your
opinion? You have as much right to your opinion as
I have. Out with it!"*14
O
zov4Z
SPORTS.
Dignitaries received formal invitations to attend the
annual "Games" which were held at the Lacrosse
Grounds on the north-west corner of Jarvis and
Wellesley Streets during the 1880's.
In 1877 he became involved in the inanrgo•
high school athletic event to be held f he "G
were first held at the Toronto Lacrosse Grounds on the north.
west corner of Jarvis and Wellesley Streets because Hughes
"Games" committee, Fred Manley, was assisted by
students including Edward Hagarty, who later became principal
of Harbord Collegiate, and Neil McEachern, who returned
Jarvis as a science master.
On October 4th the Queen's Own Band sounded the
fanfare and the "Games" were under way. It was a huge success
Prizes were presented by the Mayor to W. Auldjo, winner of the
ex-pupil's race, and to J. Bull, overall champion. At its conclusion
everyone agreed that it should become an annual affair, and it
did. *15 Two boys who may have enjoyed the "GamesB were
Lyman Duff and Herbert Dewart. The latter won the Howland
Scholarship in 1877 and was selected as the Ontario Liberal
leader from 1917 to 1922. In January, 1935, when a snowstorm
prevented the Governor-General from opening the federal
parliament, Hon. Lyman Duff, who had been appointed Chief
Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada in 1933, was called upon
to replace him. It was the first time that a Canadian had read the
speech from the throne. *16 He was knighted primarily for his
efforts as a member of the Duff Commission (Report of the Royal
Commission on Transportation).
By the 1880's Toronto's population of 80,000 strolled at
night beneath the city's first street lights. As the population grew
and attitudes changed the feminist movement became more
vocal in its demands. In 1882 the Toronto Board of Education
awarded women teachers an insignificant raise of $25.00 per
year. It was their first increase in eight years and they were
outraged! In a petition to the Board they stated, "We are entitled
to more consideration and beg respectfully, that you will consider
the
They also published the following letter in The
Mail:
Our salaries, since the magnificent increase
range from $350. to $550., while those of the head
50

masters range from $750. to $1,100. We think, of
course, that their salaries should rank somewhat
higher than ours on account of the responsibility
resting upon them, but surely the above difference
is altogether too great. Then, again, in four of the
schools assistant masters are employed, who teach
a lower grade than the highest lady teachers, and
have no responsibility whatever, and yet because of
their sex receive $850. per annum, $300. more than
the ladies teaching the highest grade in the same
schools. Now, we ask you, is this just? . Of
course, we know that the world is yet adverse to
putting women's salaries on a par with those of
men, but surely in this nineteenth century, with its
boasted culture and many improvements, it is time
that the common sense of the people decree that
those who do equal work should receive equal
remuneration, be their sex or age what it may. *18
The trustees responded by ordering their secretary to
"intimate to all the teachers in the service of this Board that it
would accept the resignation of those who are dissatisfied with
their present positions .
Despite the trustees' reply and the newspapers' abuse,
the ladies were persistent. Female teachers who paid municipal
taxes formed the Women's Enfranchisement Association, and
later successfully campaigned to open the University of Toronto
to women.
The male chauvinism and the female discontent of that
era were also evident in the Collegiate. Helen MacMurchy, the
rector's daughter and a former student, joined the staff in 1880.
She was followed two years later by Janie Thomas. The students
respected both women highly and considered them equal to the
men, but, according to the inflexible rector, they were inferior.
In 1888 girls of the fourth and fifth forms founded their
own Literary Society, which organized an energetic and varied
program. Bi-monthly meetings included several songs performed
by their own glee club and a reading of the school's first journal,
the What-Not, which was produced in four issues. When the girls
approached Dr. MacMurchy to request an open meeting with
"the gentlemen's society", he refused. Coincidentally, perhaps,
the subject for debate at the next meeting was, "Resolved, that
women are qualified for, and should be legally entitled to, all the
civil right' which men now enjoy". The decision was for the
affirmative.*20
z
The program for the first meeting of the Girls' Literary
Society was located on the back of the handwritten
invitation.
Courtesy: Ontario Archives.
51

Toronto Collegiate Girls' Literary Society of 1888-89 invited the then president of the Boys' Literary Society to join them in this
formal photograph. Rear row, left to right: Annie Johnston, Ethel Macklin, Isabel Woods, Hattie Dixon, Belle Hilliar, Bob
Wightman. Millie Webber, Emma McAllister, Gussie Hoover, Bertha Rogers, Clara Nasmith.
Middle row (seated): Kate Hughes, Flossie Standish, Ada Short, Mrs. Arthurs (teacher), Daisy Glanville, Annie Watson,
Annie McLellan. Florence Burns. Front row: Maggie Bell, Belle Hetherington, Annie Lemmon, Rose Lucas, Ethel Dyke, Bertha
Flynn. Nellie Miller.
Courtesy: Ontario Archives.
52

In 1884 love was thwarted when the Medical Health
Department ordered the closure of that bastion of co-education
with its two handles and two spouts — the pump! More tragic
than a school without water, were scholars without a rendezvous.*21
But where there's a craving, there's a culprit, and Dr. W.
Piersol remembered one admirable effort:
The wall between the rooms of the girls' side of the
building and those on the boys' side was rather
thicker than most inside walls, probably because it
had to contribute support to the center of the floor
of the Assembly Hall above it. In this wall there was
a doorway between the two adjacent class rooms
with a door on the girls' side and another on the
boys' side. One day while our class was in the
Principal's care he wished to send a note to the
teacher of the girls' class then in the room into
which this doorway opened. My chum who was
selected to carry the note was told to explain his
errand to the boys' teacher through whose room he
had to pass and to be sure to close behind him the
door on the boys' side before opening very far the
door on the girls' side. All this he did faithfully and
delivered the note — but the girls' teacher was so
anxious to avoid having both doors open at the
same time that she gave my chum no time to
unfasten the door on the boys' side but pressed
him back with her door and leaned firmly against it.
As the lady was far from small, probably weighing
nearly two hundred pounds, my chum passed some
very uncomfortable moments before he could work
a hand into position to tum the knob of the other
door.
In 1885 the thirty-three year old Sam Hughes ended his
ten-year career at the school and moved to Lindsay where he
purchased a small newspaper. After his election as an M.P. in
1911, he was appointed Minister of the Militia. At the outbreak of
World War I he constructed armouries across the country and
enlisted, outfitted and trained 33,000 Canadians before sending
them to England. In August, 1915, George V knighted him for his
achievements.
Two noteworthy events of 1887 were the Annual
Distribution Day and a visit from the Governor-General, Lord
Lansdowne. On May 13th his Excellency was welcomed by Dr.
MacMurchy and the masters, who had donned full academic
gowns for the occasion. "After a tour through the classrooms the
prayer hall was visited ... Union Jacks covered the walls and the
dais was literally a mass of foliage, excepting the small space
for the visitors were placed neat little
where the seats
In a
speech the rector welcomed his Excellency to the school .
After addressing the pupils, Lord Lansdowne was "presented
with a beautiful bouquet for himself and a magnificent basket of
flowers for Lady Lansdowne."*25 In less than an hour the viceregal
visit was over.
The annual "Distribution Day" (Commencement) was a
grand affair for prize winners, graduates and parents. The Globe
recorded the event as follows:
Collegiate Institute Distribution Day
Yesterday was "Distribution Day" at the
Collegiate Institute. At 2 p.m. scholars and masters
gathered in the chapel to take part in the annual
presentation of prizes and scholarships, which
ceremony was of sufficient interest to attract a large
number of ex-pupils and parents and friends of the
students. Mayor Howland occupied the chair, and
after religious services conducted by Rev. Arthur
Baldwin, Principal MacMurchy explained the
conditions under which the various prizes were
won, when the presentations were made by the
Mayor, Chairman Lobb, Honorary Secretary
Pepier and Rev. Dr. Reid and Arthur Baldwin. [sic]
At the close addresses were delivered by Mr. Lobb,
Rev. Mr. Baldwin, the Mayor and the principal. By
the latter fitting reference was made to the death of
two pupils during the vacation, one of whom was
Perley Macdonald, the unfortunate victim of a rifle
range accident.*26
The construction of the new school was enveloped in
controversy from its opening. The Board minutes of February,
1873, state:
That the City Auditors be requested to audit
the accounts of the H.S. Board for the Years 1871
and 1872,
53

That whereas an opinion is abroad that the
expedition in connection with the erection of the
High School Building was neither properly supervised,
nor economically or judiciously made,
Resolved that a full and thorough investigation
be made by the Board into all matters pertaining to
the purchase of the school site, the erection of the
building, etc.*27
The subsequent investigation clarified nothing and the "opinion
During the 1880's "wings" were added beyond the
and south doors (1881), a shed was utilized as
north
the
gymnasium and a carriage house was converted into
gymnasium. Apparatus for chemistry and physics experiments
was purchased and first used in 1888 when the classroom
basement's north end was fitted for scientific in instruction.
the
Toronto Collegiate Institute in 1881 with additional wings, trees and fence.
Courtesy: Toronto Board of Education Archives.

The third floor assembly hall was completed in 1889. Four years later an inspector recommended
"that immediate attention be paid to the roof of the Assembly Hall...which requires
bracing.. .the matter is urgent. "
In the autumn of 1889 the opening of school was delayed
due to the construction of the infamous third floor assembly hall.
For the next thirty-four years most of the Collegiate's highlights
would take place in the "Aud". Every morning after period one,
boys and girls, separated by a double row of benches, aligned
themselves across the floor. On the dais before them stood the
rector. With the command, "Eyes front!" he conducted the
morning prayer with his eyes open. Students claimed that he was
just obeying the scripture, "Watch and On alternate
Fridays the Boys' and Girls' Literary Societies filled the third floor
with an enthusiastic audience who enjoyed mock trials, music,
debates, recitations and scientific demonstrations. For the
annual "At Home" and "Distribution Day" the hall was lit by
gaslight and decorated with red, white and blue bunting. *29
Students attending those activities unanimously recall the
creaks and groans which originated in the roof and frequently
drowned out the speaker. Those memorable discords were not
the result of time and the elements; they were built into the
original structure. Four years after the third floor opened, the
Board Management Committee recommended, "that immediate
attention be paid to the roof of the Assembly Hall ... which
requires bracing the matter is urgent."*30 The alarm was
raised upon the discovery that the walls were spreading apart.
Enforcing rods were installed to restore the building's posture. *31
In the sarne report another defect was noted:
The Jarvis St. building is exceedingly faulty in
plan and unfortunately, some of the most glaring
defects are apparently irremediable. The one which
interferes most seriously with the work of the
institute is the absence of corridors lengthwise
55

through the building.
the
Access from one end of it to
other can be had
rooms,
only through intermediate
and this is obviously a very formidable
obstacle to perfect school organization.
So far as the Committee are able to form an
opinion it is practically
a
impossible now to construct
corridor on the ground floor without both
weakening the edifice and lessening the accommo•
dation. On the first floor,however, a corridor might
be constructed ... by utilizing portions of two small
rooms that are not needed as classrooms.
The building's design, construction, modifications and
additions faced perpetual criticism until the pupils marched from
it in 1924. But the assembly hall, despite all its faults, gained a
reputation as a mischievous, likeable rogue. Today, "old boys
and old girls" recall the leaky, creaky roof with a chuckle. One
senses that they courageously defied the prospect of its
imminent collapse.
Among the pupils of that decade who later gained
prominence was Prof. Lash Miller, a chemist who received the
decoration, Commander of the British Empire, in recognition of
his scientific research. Journalist Hector Charlesworth became
of Saturday Night magazine and was first
chairman of the Canadian Radio Broadcasting Commission, the
forerunner of the C.B.C. After winning the Lee Scholarship in
1887 Francis Henry Vercoe graduated from the Royal Military
College with "the highest honours ever obtained". He gained
further recognition in 1902 by successfully managing the
reconstruction of African railways destroyed during the Boer
War.* 33 While at the Collegiate, John Falconbridge won a
Howland Scholarship and was subsequently appointed Dean of
Osgoode Hall Law School. George Henry and William Finlayson
didn't attend Toronto Collegiate Institute at the same time, but
they did serve in the same provincial cabinet. The former was an
M.P.P. for thirty years and Premier of Ontario from 1930 to 1934.
The latter was his Minister of Lands and Forests.
In 1882 Henry Lumley Drayton joined his class in the
hurling of lumps of coal from a pile belonging to the caretaker,
Tom Wedlock. When the group was confronted by Mr.
McEachern, the guilty pupils were asked to rise. Because the
future M.P. was right under the master's nose, he stood. Mr.
McEachern then commented, "Drayton, I knew you were
Collegiate tie pins owned bv Georqe Shaw. master of
school from 1880 to 1896, are dated from left to right: 1885. 1881.
1886, 1888. school crest. 1887. 1889, 1890. 1891.
Courtesy: Otwav F. Hayden.
troublesome, but I never knew you were remarkable, and yet
appears that, alone and unaided, you managed to throw
whole ton of coal." Only then did Drayton away
discover a
that none of
his classmates was standing. *34 In 1915 he was knighted for
work as chairman of the Canadian Board of
his
Railway
sioners during the First World War. He was Commis.
Minister Of
from 1919 to 1921.
Finance
Women graduates of the 1880's ultimately
recognition equal to that of the men. Isabel earned
Rolls, who
the Lieutenant Governor, laid the cornerstone
married
of the
school building. Another of Dr. MacMurchy's
present
daughters,
became Lady Willison and a
Bessie
prominent journalist. Her
tions include The Woman Bless
pubiica.
Her and The Canadian Girl
Work.
During the 1890's few of Toronto's 180,000 residents
joined the rush to the Klondike despite the recession. Massey
Hall and the "Old" City Hall altered the skyline while trolley cars
replaced horsecars in the streets. Students gave priority to the
mastery of basketball and bicycles. For female cyclists the new
bloomers were far more practical than the cumbersome skirts,
but for male viewers the sight was downright appalling. One
trustee even brought a motion before the Board,
56

That the inspectors be instructed to report at
the next meeting the names of all female teachers
who have been riding bicycles in male attire,
commonly called "bloomers".
The motion was defeated by a vote of thirteen to six. *35
Jameson Avenue High School, which opened in 1888
changed its name to Parkdale the following year. Thus, "Toronto
Collegiate Institute" became a misnomer, and on June 17, 1890, it
was changed to "Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute".
Numerous innovations were introduced at J.S.C.I. during
the 1890's. Lunch period was extended to ninety minutes and
physical education became part of the curriculum. Classrooms
welcomed hardwood floors, desks, tables, more blackboards
and even the odd piano. Until 1891 there had been six forms. The
first, known as the "prep" class, was the equivalent of today's
grade 8, while the second to sixth forms were considered equal to
the present grades 9 to 13. In May of that year the Board
abolished the "prep" class, thus slightly reducing the school's
population.*36 Another change was brought about by the
Truancy Act of 1891, which was prompted by a report that 650 of
Toronto's youth had been arrested within the past year. The Act
stipulated that all children between the ages of 8 and 14 must
attend school full time. As a result, the Collegiate's enrolment
soon reached 295. In 1895 Jarvis installed its first telephones and
opened the assembly hall for its first formal dance, the "At
Home". A year later, "bicycle strips" constructed in the shed
solved the school's first parking problem.
When Mr. Chase joined the staff in 1889, he succeeded
Major Manley as president of the "Lit.", and subsequently
contributed much to its rejuvenation over the next fourteen
years. With the assistance of S. Duncan-Clark, managing editor,
and R. Somers and S. Wickett, associate editors, he initiated the
publication in 1891 of a school journal called The Collegiate. It
was but one single, typewritten sheet which disappeared from
the Society's reading room before it was actually published. Four
hundred copies of the second number were printed in February,
1892. This issue consisted of eight pages, and included an
editorial, "Lit." meeting reports, a list of subscribers to the piano
rental fund and several "well-written" articles. Another journal
was printed in March to complete volume I. *37
Volume Il consisted of four numbers published in
December, January, February and March of 1892-93 in which
ample coverage was given to the inter-collegiate debates
between Jarvis and Parkdale. An item in the January issue
caused the editors some anxious, yet humorous moments. The
article in question, a generally favourable review of several
performances at the Literary Society's meeting, concluded with
the bland statement, "The rest of the entertainment was fairly
good." "The rest" was a piano solo by B. Gray, who considered
himself to be "damned with faint praise". He immediately filed a
libel suit against the proprietors of the paper, claiming $10,000
damages. When the case came to court in the assembly hall, it
involved Percy Robinson as Judge, John Falconbridge as Clerk
of the Court, Messrs. Howland and Wilson as Counsels for the
Prosecution, and Messrs. Finlayson and Burns as Counsels for
the Defence. According to the minutes: "The witnesses in
their strange attempts to tell the truth gave much enjoyment to
the audience, and the jury brought in a verdict of nine cents for
the plaintiff. "*40
The December, 1893, issue was both illustrated and
bound in a hard cover — "an extravagance". But, alas, it was the
last printing of The Collegiate, and was succeeded by a
manuscript read periodically at the Society's meetings. *41
At the first inter-collegiate debate held in March at
Parkdale Collegiate, the Jarvis speakers, Finlayson and Merrick,
were defeated by the home team. Two weeks later a second
inter-collegiate debate was argued in the assembly hall on the
subject, "Resolved, that reciprocity if enforced would be more
beneficial to Canada than the National Policy."
Mr. Perry of the Parkdale Literary Society
opened the debate for the affirmative. His hard
facts drew point after point from the chairman's
pencil, and when he concluded his oration he was
received with resounding cheers. Mr. Robinson of
our Society then took the stand. His voice shook
with earnestness as he made his splendid points
Issue forth. His speech was one mass of evidence in
favor of the National Policy. Mr. Hewish for the
affirmative made the air thick with the benefits of
Reciprocity, and caused the chairman's note-book
to fill rapidly. Mr. Gagen for the negative spoke with
his accustomed ability and made his opponents
look rather pale. In summing up for the affirmative,
57

Mr. Perry dashed to the ground many of his
opponent's best arguments, and again the air
looked grey to the J.C.I. boys.
After the Glee Club had given an admirable
effort, the chairman advanced to the front. He
congratulated the affirmative on their splendid
speeches, but considered they had not proven how
their object could be attained while the Jarvis
Street representatives had proved its impossibility,
*42
and therefore he decided in favor of our Society.
Despite the apparent enthusiasm of the Boys' "Lit.",
attendance at meetings was poor. Consequently, in 1892 William
McNaught proposed "that this Society be abandoned, if the
Principal does not see fit to allow the young ladies to unite [with
This time Dr. MacMurchy approved. The first joint
meeting of the Boys' and Girls' Literary Societies took place in
January, 1893. Miss Elma MacKenzie claimed that everyone
found the experience both stimulating and beneficial. The new
"Lit." later altered its constitution to open membership in the
Society to any student in the school regardless of age, form or
sex.
A major event at the annual "Games" had always been the
tug-of-war. Competition was so keen that in 1890 a scandal arose
in which some members of the junior team were found to be over
age. Much to the school's embarrassment, the "pull" had to be
cancelled. *44 But all was forgiven the next year when more than
2,000 attended the meet at the Rosedale Grounds. It was the last
time that only one school would participate in the event.
The first inter-collegiate tug-of-war was held in September,
1892, on the university lawn. The winner of the "pull"
would receive a unique trophy presented by the Board, while the
first school to win it twice could keep it as a permanent
possession. Despite the challenge, the large crowd seemed more
interested in spontaneous free-for-alls and organized raids on
other schools. *45 When the dust had settled on what was once a
lawn, the Jarvis team of A. Smith, M. Ferguson, M. Merrick, S.
Dixon, C. Delisle and John Bunting had captured the trophy, and
the rivalry between Parkdale, Jarvis and the new Harbord C.I.
was well established. *46
The following year Parkdale and Harbord prepared for
months for the first intercollegiate "Games", but when
awards were presented by Lieutenant-Governor Kirkpatrick
Jarvis had won twelve firsts, six seconds and permanent
possession of the coveted tug-of-war trophy.
The tug-of-war trophy won in 1892 and 1893 is older than the Stanley
Cup.
.10
58

Today that prize rests in the school's
many years it remained in a cardboard showcase,
box,
but
its
for
During recent renovations, Milton significance
Jewell lost.
inspected the carton and (principal,
discovered 1952-1969)
the
which he soon reactivated as
tarnished
the interform treasure
value was finally realized, it was
trophy.
quickly
When its
retired
restored to its original from
appearance service
with and
the inscription:
Jarvis 1892
Jarvis 1893
The raids and general disorder among spectators during
the 1893 "Games" caused the Board to abolish the tug-of-war
event. In place of the trophy, it presented a huge banner to the
school earning the greatest number of points. Jarvis won it in '94
only to lose it to Harbord for the next two years before winning it
back again. This time Minerva (the school's long-time patron
goddess) managed to retain it for four years. *47
TORONTO GRAMMAR
SCHOOL.
01.1) IBOVS' ASS(
First
l)il
Il
FRIDAY. JANUARY 29TH. '897.
WEBß•s PARLORS.
Prize winners of the 1899 "Games". Standing, left to right: E.L. McColl, R. Barrick, W.A. Jennings, H. Bray,
E. Gurney. Middle row: F. Watts, I. Orton, W. Michell, L. Meyers. Front row: W. Gilday, E. Shaw, A. Ross.
Programme for the Old Boys' Association's first annual
dinner held at Webb's Parlors in 1897.
59

An impossible dream was realized in September, 1893, by
the pupils of the sixth form. Since the number of students was
insufficient for two classes, the Board ordered the formation of
only one senior class, and that it be co-ed! While Dr.
MacMurchy's reaction to the edict is unrecorded, one suspects
that it was expressed in Gaelic.
Of the many noteworthy events of 1893, including the first
mixed form, the tug-of-war brawl and the amalgamation of the
Boys' and Girls' Literary Societies, one major crisis overshadowed
them all — the case of Dr. MacMurchy versus Janie
Thomas. The initial cause of the dispute is unknown, but when
Harbord Collegiate reported that it had a higher pupil-teacher
ratio than Jarvis and needed another teacher, the rector saw his
opportunity to rid himself of an antagonist. It appears that he
communicated with high school inspector Seath who brought
the following motion before the School Management Committee
in January:
That your committee recommend that Miss
Thomas be transferred from Jarvis Street to
Harbord Street; her duties in her new sphere to
begin on the morning of Monday, the 30th of
January, and to continue until the board makes
some further order in the premises.
That the efficiency of the Jarvis Street School may
be enhanced rather than impaired by such a
reduction in its staff. *48
The three men on the committee voted for the motion,
but according to the minutes:
Miss O'Connor dissents from the above finding, on
the ground that the whole matter should be left
over for the Board of 1893 to deal with.*49
On January 30th Miss Thomas moved to Harbord
Collegiate. Her transfer was the main concern of the February
1st staff meeting in which the following motion was passed:
The Staff were unanimously of the opinion that the
efficiency of the Institute was much impaired by the
removal of Miss Thomas.
One week later the School Management Committee
discussed hiring a teacher to replace her "from this date to the
end of the term at a salary not to exceed $4.00 a During
this discussion Miss O'Connor moved, "that Miss Thomas be
was lost.
restored to Jarvis."*52 The motion
It was then moved by Mr. Denton that a temporary
teacher be procured at once and that Mr.
MacMurchy be requested to submit at least four
names to the committee on Saturday night.*53
Miss Janie Thomas was a student at the Collegiate from
1874 to 1880 and a teacher from 1882 to 1924.
60

6
uf4/'
At a staff meeting held on February I. 1893, the day
after Miss Thomas was moved to Harbord Collegiate,
the masters unanimously opposed the opinion of
Inspector Seath whose motion to transfer her from
Jarvis was carried by the Board.
At the February committee meeting the hiring of Miss
Thomas' replacement was recorded thus:
It was moved by Dr. Faul and Carried that Miss
Katie F. Hagarty be employed as temporary
teacher in the Jarvis Street School
-Mr. Hastings dissented. *S4
The press and public sided with Miss Thomas and at the
next Board meeting Mr. Denton moved:
That whereas through the Press and otherwise the
proper management and efficiency of Jarvis Street
Collegiate Institute has been called in question that
the school management committee be and are
hereby requested to make a special report to this
board on the condition of the said school.*55
The motion was passed, but the subsequent report outlined only
faults found in the school's physical structure.
Then, on April 15th, the Board recommended:
That Miss Thomas be re-transferred to the Jarvis
Street School after the summer vacation. *56
Janie Thomas returned to the "Old school" in September to end
one of the most unfortunate conflicts in the school's history.
A battered 8" x 11" notebook in the Jarvis Collegiate
Archives recounts the first gathering of the "Old Boys' Association".
Minutes of a meeting of "the Boys of the Old
Grammar School", held at the Bible House, Yonge
St. Toronto, on Thursday, Dec. 26, 1895.
Present:- Archibald MacMurchy Esq., Rev'd. A.
Gilray, Prof. Baker, Messrs. H.H. Dewart, W.G.
Crawford, F.F. Manley, G.E. Shaw, W. Grant, P.
McEachern, Angus MacMurchy, Campbell Mac-
Murchy & Rev'd. W. Carter. *57
At a meeting held in the assembly hall in January, 1896,
the official name of the organization was changed to the
"Toronto Grammar School Old Boys' Association". Its constitution
explained:
The objects of the Association shall be to maintain
and increase the friendly relations existing among
all those who are and have been members of the
School, and to co-operate in every legitimate way in
advancing the welfare of the Institution.
The Principal, Masters and Ex-Masters, boys of the
Fifth and Sixth Forms in the School; and all male
ex-pupils are eligible for membership.*58
The fee for this exclusive honour was set at $1.00 per year.
The prospect of a "year book" was first discussed at the
May meeting and was enthusiastically received. The following
responsibilities were later delegated:
History of Athletics — Mr. Manley
Pictures of principals and schools of the past —
Angus MacMurchy
Historical sketch of Institute — Archibald Mac-
Murchy
History of Literary Society — Mr. Chase
For a total cost of $123.50 The Year Book of the Toronto
Grammar School was published in 1897. As a result, much of the
61

institution's early history was documented and preserved. The
details of the conflict with Upper Canada College, the lists of
university scholarship winners and members of various teams
and committees, and the history of The Collegiate would have
by the Old Boys' Association.
Several staff changes which occurred before the turn of
the century greatly affected the school's future. Emily Thompson
MacMurchy resigned three years later in order to pursue a
career in medicine. As a physician, she became the first female
resident interne at Toronto General Hospital and was ultimately
appointed Director of the Federal Department of Child Welfare
a position which she held for fifteen years. Her publications on
child care, including the Little Blue Books and The Canadian
Mother's Book, sold over 800,000 copies. In 1949 she was
awarded the Elizabeth Blackwell citation "as one of twelve
leading physicians in the Western World" *59 The teachers
replacing these two prominent women "Billy" Michell (1897) and
Carl Lehmann (1898), were both destined to become high school
In the spring of 1894 the girls published as a memento of
the the first
amalgamation of the Souvenir
Literary Societies. It
Boys'
continued in the
and
form Girls'
manuscript until 1899 when
of
it was
an
printed as annual
booklet. Its editor, Winnifred a
Spence, later forty-page
C.I. as a teacher. Among
returned
the amusing articles to Jarvis
an editorial by Edith
in
Summers
that
in which she volume is
expresses her
I feel sure that in a short time the Old Girls'
Association will be an existing reality. As fora union
with the "old boys", the idea merits nothing but our
RENDEZVOUS
R—r.s•.
"AT 110M
Page 3 of the Old Boys' Association Minute Book
records the founding meeting of that organization on
December 26, 1895.
CO 1.1.EGI.vre 1.ss•r1T1
62
Dance card for the 1900 ' 'At Home".

It also contains an account by Florence Robinson of the
fifth annual "At Home", one of the major events of the school
year:
TIE "At Home" has come and gono again ;
it has been look-cd forward to with-eager
expectation, and perhnps a little anxiety,
and is now looked back upon with
only happy thoughts The building
never looked Letter than on eventful
night. The usually bare, white walls of the
wide corridors were hung with great flags draped in
graceful folds ; every nook and corner was dcclccd in
red, white or blue, and from wall to gas.jet and back
again were draped long festoons of bunting inter.
twined with evergreen and brightly-colored flowers.
Herc and there were scattered cosy littlc'corners, and
easy chairs screened by palms, and sofas piled
with cushions. The warm, rich color which prevail.
ed everywhere, served as background for the cool,
dainty gowns of the girls, who all looked their best
this night, their bright merry faces proclaiming that
they were having thoroughly good time.
The hall outside of the cloakrooms was one throng
of boys and girl, talking and laughing while filling
up their cards. Very, very slowly they moved on
upstairs to the Assembly Hall and waited patiently
until the concert Was over, Carrying away a pleasant
impression Of a recitation and a song, but Only very
hazy one of a speech about athletics and education.
Then the promenading began— most enjoyable
part Of the whole evening. Round and round tho
Assembly Hall and up and down the stairs walked
the long, apparently endless line Of girls and boys—
walked until they were tired and their feet were
sore ; but what difference did that make I They
would have been quite willing to WRIk until morning
if they bad been allowed. And then, at last, the
orchestra played God save the Queen," and good
byes were said, and the young people gradually
vanished, declaring that the only things they had not
enjoyed were the two extra promenades, which, somebow,
someone had forgotlen to put On the board.
FLORENCE ROUINSON.
Although the Old Boys' and Old Girls' Associations
preferred to feud, the amalgamated Literary Society discovered
that unity of the sexes could be most beneficial. At the meeting
held in January, 1899, a group of boys called, "A Dark Secret"
gave the school's first orchestral concert. "The instruments were
Mouth Organ, Zobos [sic], Picalo [sic], Violin, Piano, etc. which
The following meeting
made an excellent combination. "*63
featured "A Fair Secret", the newly-formed ladies' chorus of
sixteen members. *64 In March, boys and girls co-operated to
perform the first drama in the Collegiate's history, a scene from
Sheridan's Rivals, starring Messrs. Watts and Gunn and Misses
Procter, Norris and Macpeak. *65
"A" Company, the Jarvis Collegiate Cadet Corps, began
with a fanfare and ended sixty-five years later with front-page
headlines. The school's first indication to the Board of Education
that it was interested in organizing a corps came in July, 1898. *66
After obtaining approval from the federal government in
February, 1899, forty students formed the first company under
Major Manley. As the second such organization in the city and
the first to be based in a school, it had the following officers and
sergeants:
Captain - F.J. Christie.
1st Lieutenant - B.G. Stephenson.
2nd Lieutenant - J.W. Buchner.
ColorSergeant - V.N. Smallpiece.
Sergeants - C.L. Constantinides, J.B. Heron, R.E.
Gunn.
* 67
Drills were held once a week and the initial street parade
took place in May, 1899, prior to the decoration of the Batoche
Monument in Queen's Park. In June, the company was
inspected, but Lieutenant-Colonel Otter had little to inspect; an
entire uniform consisted of a forage-cap.
Four months later the cadets participated in a parade
honouring the Canadian Contingent which was about.to set out
for South Africa. A year later, the corps marched in the parade
celebrating the troops' return. One member of that Contingent
was Norman Wilson, a Jarvis student. Prior to his departure,
each pupil had contributed five cents toward a special
presentation to him. *69
63

In 1899 Major Fred Manley wore his top hat and Riel Rebellion decoration as he posed with the first Jarvis
Cadet Corps.

Another Jarvisite of the 1890's who received a warm
homecoming was oarsman Lou Scholes. In 1904 he journeyed to
Henley-on-Thames to become the first Canadian to win the
"diamond sculls". He was later given a civic reception before
80,000 Torontonians. Other noteworthy alumni of that decade
were Dr. Harley-Smith, who later served as Italian Consul; Alex
Dewdney, the future Bishop of
and C.H. Snider,
who became associate editor of The Evening Telegram. Before
becoming an M.P., Thomas Church was one of five Jarvisites to
be elected Mayor of Toronto. *71
By 1899 public awareness of problems within the school
prompted some parents to send their children to Harbord
Collegiate although they resided in the Jarvis area. At his June
appearance before the Board, one concerned parent, Mr.
Hamilton, objected to sending his son to J.S.C.I. "because of
certain representatives he had heard.''*72 A sub-committee was
then established to investigate "the reported inefficiency of Jarvis
Street School."*73
In October Mr. Hamilton again appeared before the
Board and stated:
that rumors in circulation about Jarvis were so
sweeping as to induce him to send his son to
another school — that his reasons were
embodied in a letter addressed to Mr. James
Wilson, Chairman of the School Management
Cornrnittee.
Flags from Mr. Gooderham's yacht provided some of the decorations for
the 1899 ' 'At Home". Receipt for $8.00 fee paid by C.H. Snider on September 1, 1891.
Note the school crest in the background.
65

Another resident, Mr. Fairty, gave specific examples of poor
teaching and poor discipline. He also referred to "a lack of
harmony and loyalty in the staff". *75
The Board drafted the following letter to be sent to those
parents and ratepayers residing in the Jarvis Street School
District, who preferred to send their children to another school:
Dear Sir, —
A Sub-Committee of the School Management
Committee of the Toronto Collegiate Institute
Board, is now investigating certain matters in
connection with the Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute.
As you live in the Jarvis Street School District,
and are sending, or have sent, some of your
children to another District, the Committee would
be pleased to know your reasons for sending your
children to another School, other than Jarvis Street
School.
Your answers are not for publication and will
be considered confidential by the Committee.
The Sub-Committee will meet at 4.30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 25, in Room 3 Aberdeen
Chambers, Toronto, when it will be pleased to hear
from you personally, should you not care to reply in
writing.
This enquiry is being conducted in the best
interests of the Institute, and it is hoped that any
persons having useful information to communicate
will avail themselves of this opportunity to aid the
Sub-Committee in dealing fairly with this matter.
Yours truly,
Although the letter was presented to the Board for approval, the
motion to carry on with the plan was lost. *77
In November the sub-committee looking into the reorganization
of Jarvis met to consider Dr. MacMurchy's report:
On motion of Dr. Elliott the Sub-Committee
decided to recommend that the staff in Jarvis
Street School be asked to resign and Dr. Ferguson
was requested to draft a Report of the Sub-
Committee to be presented to the Meeting of the
School Management Committee.
When the sub-committee reported to the School Management
Committee the following week, the wording of the actual request
was:
That after careful consideration given to the whole
question and the difficulty of locating exactly the
sources of discontent with the said Institute, that
the entire staff be asked to resign. *
This motion was also lost and the sub-committee was dismissed.
In the aftermath of the investigation Dr. MacMurchy and
Mr. Crawford retired, another teacher resigned and Major
Manley was appointed principal. *80 The rector received a retiring
allowance of $1,500 per annum and Mr. Crawford was awarded
$750 per annum. No previous principal or master in the school's
history had received a pension.
The Prince of Wales Medal was presented by the
Ontario Department of Education to the pupil standing
first at the Toronto Collegiate Institute. This award was
won by C.E. Cooper Cole in 1897.
Courtesy: Family of the late Dr. C.E.C. Cole.
66

The difficult task of summarizing Dr. MacMurchy's fortythree
years in the Collegiate has been attempted by many. Dr.
Hodgins praised him as one "held in high esteem by those who
profited from his influence and instruction".*81 Honora Cochrane,
who taught in the school for many years wrote:
In the long period of his principalship Dr. Mac-
Murchy developed in his teachers and pupils a true
sense of values, firmly Christian and strongly
democratic, which emphasized responsibility,
integrity in one's work and one's relationships,
duty, self-reliance — in a word, the idealism of the
nineteenth century. *82
In January, 1902, the Old Boys' Association honoured Dr.
Archibald MacMurchy with the unveiling of his portrait at a grand
banquet. In his testimonial Professor Baker compared the rector
to previous principals:
Our ex-Principal was one of the first of
Canadian-trained teachers to take part in "Grammar
School" work. Before his time the work had
been largely done by Old Countrymen, who too
often had been failures in the old land. He thus
helped to form our Canadian educational ideals, as
he has helped to realize them
As a teacher he ever struggled for high ideals. I
may illustrate this by an incident that belongs to my
own days in the old Toronto Grammar School. The
class to which I belonged had got over and indeed
beyond the honor matriculation work in mathematics,
and the question arose to what should we next
direct our attention. Newton's Principia and
Analytical Plane Geometry were discussed — both
at the time belonging to the honor mathematical
work of the second year in the University,
Analytical Geometry was decided upon, and I
received my first lessons in it as a school boy in the
old Toronto Grammar School. Mr. MacMurchy
made the Toronto Grammar School the mathematical
school of the province. The large number of
honors and scholarships won in the university by
his pupils sufficiently attests this. In teaching his
method was to offer the needed explanations and
to leave so much unsaid that the intelligence and
originality of the scholar should have opportunity to
develop themselves. I have always congratulated
myself that I started my mathematical studies with
one who was too thorough to teach a subject
threadbare.
Mr. MacMurchy always took the deepest
personal interest in his scholars. A remarkable
consequence of this is his clear recollection of
almost every one of the thousands who, during his
years of office, pursued their studies in the school.
This power to recall faces and names comes not so
much from a good memory, though he has that, as
from a deep personal interest in, and sympathy
with, all by whom he was surrounded. Teaching
with its countless opportunities for good has been
to him not a mere profession — rather a mission
almost sacred in its character. When I became an
undergraduate in the university I not infrequently
called to see him, and always felt the magnetism of
his sympathy with and interest in me. I always left
him with a lighter step and lighter heart, and with
more courage for my work.
No notice of our guest of tonight would be
complete that did not refer to his patriotism. When
the Fenian Raid occurred he left wife and family,
and the school which was next in his heart after
them, and hurried to the frontier to defend our
country. And I believe that did occasion arise today
there is no one amongst us that would sooner
shoulder a rifle in defence of Canada and the
Empire than Archibald MacMurchy.
Take him all in all, as a man, as a scholar, as a
teacher, as a citizen and patriot, considering his
long term of office, his devotion to his work, I feel I
am justified in saying we "shall not look upon his like
again"; and we all feel as we think of him and his lifework,
that on him will be pronounced the verdict
"well done, thou good and faithful servant." *83
The ceremony proceeded with the unveiling of the
portrait painted by Dickson Patterson, who rather immodestly
proclaimed it "one of the best that [has] been executed in
Canada ."*84
In his response to Professor Baker, Dr. MacMurchy
explained the re-appearance of Rev. MacAulay, the lost
principal, and then bade farewell:
67

I need scarcely say to you that I did not reach
the decision of retiring from the old school lightly or
inadvisedlv, I could not contemplate leaving the
school. in which I did servicc for more than forty-
My
two years. without soberness akin to solemnity.
separation from the young. alert, buoyant, enthusiastic
life of the scholar is a source of deep regret.
Many a time the morning prayers and a look at the
young fresh faces in the assembly hall, proved a
wellspring of inspiration to the depressed strength
and spirit of the principal, by which the work of the
institute sped onwards, day in, day out, smoothly
and successfully
I regret that I do not know how to convey to
the thousands who have passed through the school
during these past years a fitting expression of
grateful thanks and appreciation of their helpfulness
and kindness in the conduct of the school.
Where beauty moves, and wit delights,
And signs of kindness bind me,
There, oh! there, whene'er I go,
I leave my heart behind me.
"Nil decet invita Minerva.
I Baker, Prof. A., "Memoir Of Archibald MacMurchy, M.A., LL.D.,"
University Monthly (Nov. 1912).
2 Hodgins, J .G., The Establishment of Schools and Colleges in Ontario, 1792-
1910 (Toronto: L.K. Cameron, 1910).
3 Burton, C.L., A Sense of Urgency (Toronto: Clark, Irwin & co., 1952).
4 Marling, A.E., ' 'In the Early Seventies," The Magnet (1907).
5 Gill, J., "The March of Improvement," The Magnet (1924).
6 Hodgins, J.G., The Establishment ofSchools and Colleges in Ontario, 1792-
1910, op. cit.
7 Fairchild, Prof. A.H.R., "Jarvis Street Twenty Years Ago," The Magnet
(1907).
8 McAree, J.V., "Jarvis Collegiate and Us," The Globe & Mail (June 3, 1957).
9 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Sept. 22, 1873).
10 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Nov. 10, 1873).
Il "Was Second Woman on High School Staff," Tho Evoninq
29,
12 Seton, Ernest Thompson, Trail of on Artist (New
Scribner's Sons, 1940).
13 Visitor's Book (Toronto High School, p, 38).
14 Reesor, E.B., "When Sam Hughes Was a Pedagogue," Vancouver
Province (August, 1921).
Mr. Hughes never did get a degree, but in 1880 he passed Into second
university and obtained his first class teaching certificate. His promotion
the position of English master followed.
15 Manley, F.F., "Athletic Record, 1877-1896." Year Book of the Toronto
Grammar School, 1807-1897, op. cit.
16 Smith, H.J., public Archives of Canada.
17 Women in Education (Toronto: Toronto Board of Education. 1975).
18 The Mail (Feb. 28, 1882).
19 Women in Education, op. cit.
20 Minute Book, Toronto Collegiate Girls' Literary Society, 188889.
21 Minutes, Toronto Board of Education (Oct. I, 1884).
22 Piersol, Dr. W.H., "The Collegiate Institute, 1886-1891." The Magnet
(1957).
23 Capon, A.R., His Faults Lie Gently, Lindsay: 1969) .
24 The Evening Telegram (May 13, 1887).
25 The Evening Telegram (May 13, 1887).
26 The Globe (Oct. 1, 1887).
27 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Feb. 18, 1873).
28 Piersol, Dr. W.H., The Magnet (1957).
29 Jennings, W.A., The Magnet (1957).
30 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Mar. 7, 1893).
31 The Magnet (June, 1906).
32 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Mar. 7, 1893).
33 "Capt. Vercoe Dies Abroad," The Globe (Dec., 1902).
34 The Globe (Sept. 30, 1922).
35 "The Bloomer Scandal," Women in Education (Toronto: Toronto Board oi
Education, 1975).
36 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (May 5, 1891).
37 McNaught, W.C., "The Press of the Old Grammar School," The Magnet
(1907).
38 Ibid.
39 McNaught, W.C., op. cit.
40 Ibid.
68

41 Ibid.
42 Minutes, The Literary Society, Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute (March 17,
1892).
43 Minutes, The Literary Society (Dec. 16, 1892).
44 Games Committee Minute Book (Oct. 3, 1890).
45 Manley, F.F., "Athletic Record, 18771896," Year Book of the Toronto
Grammar School, 1807-1897, op. cit.
46 Wright, L.A., "Our Record in Athletics," The Magnet (1907).
47 Wright, L.A., op. cit.
Manley, F.F., op. cit.
48 Minutes, School Management Committee, Toronto High School Board of
Education, 1872+04 (Jan. 21, 1893).
49 Ibid.
50 Minute Book of the Staff of Jarvis Collegiate Institute, 1892-1907 (Feb. I,
1893).
51 Minutes, School Management Committee, Toronto High
Education,
School
1872-1904
Board of
(Feb. 8, 1893).
52 Ibid.
53 Ibid.
54 Minutes, School Management Committee, op. cit. (Feb. Il, 1893).
55 Minutes, Toronto Board of Education, 1872-1904 (Feb. 7, 1893).
56 Minutes, Toronto Board of Education, 1872-1904 (Apr. 15, 1893).
57 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Old Boys' Association (Dec. 26, 1895).
58 Minutes, Toronto Grammar School Old Boys' Association (Jan. 30, 1896).
59 Bannerman, Jean, Leading Ladies, Canada, 1639-1967 (Dundas: Carrswood,
1967).
60 McNaught, W.C., "The Press of the Old Grammar School," The Magnet
(1907).
61 Souvenir (Toronto: The Boys' and Girls' Literary Society, 1899).
62 Souvenir, op. cit.
63 Minutes, The Literary Society (Jan. 13, 1899).
64 Minutes, The Literary Society (Feb. 10, 1899).
65 Minutes, The Literary Society (Mar. 24, 1899).
66 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (July 5, 1898).
67 Alley, Herbert, "The Jarvis Cadet Corps, Past and Present," The Magnet
(1907).
68 Alley, Herbert, op. cit.
69 Minute Book of the Staff of Jarvis Collegiate Institute (Oct. 23, 1899).
70 Ralsten, Alan, "Schoolday Memories of Forty Years Ago," The Mail (June
10, 1931).
71 The Magnet (1949).
72 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (June 17, 1899).
73 Ibid.
74 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Oct. 13, 1899).
75 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Oct. 13, 1899).
76 Minutes, Toronto High School Board of Education (Oct. 14, 1899).
77 Minutes, School Management Committee, Toronto High School Board of
Education (Nov. 3, 1899).
78 Minutes, School Management Committee, Toronto High School Board of
Education (Nov. 20, 1899).
79 Minutes, School Management Committee, Toronto High School Board of
Education (Nov. 29, 1899).
80 In 1900 the term "rector" was replaced by "principal".
81 Hodgins, J .G., The Establishment ofSchools and Colleges in Ontario, 1792•
1910, op. cit.
82 Cochrane, H. , op. cit.
83 Unveiling of Portrait of Mr. Archibald MacMurchy, op. cit.
84 Ibid
85 Unveiling of Portrait of Mr. Archibald MacMurchy, op. cit.
69

CHAPTER 9
his twenty-six-year teaching career he contributed to the
development of the "Lit." and organized the "Games" and the
Cadet Corps. With the onset of the Riel Rebellion, he received a
leave-of-absence from the Board to fight at Batoche. In 1900 he
was given the opportunity to correct earlier cited problems, but
was severely hampered by an illness. As a result, the situation
deteriorated to the extent that discipline almost dissolved.
As the twentieth century dawned upon Toronto with an
air of optimism the economic recession passed. The T. Eaton Co.
enticed Toronto's 200,000 with its latest novelties such as wrist
watches, petticoats and a ride on the escalator. Those who
mourned the death of Queen Victoria drowned their sorrows in a
banana split or forgot them at the nickelodeon. In 1904 Toronto's
second great fire charred a huge area between Bay and Yonge
Streets just prior to the first Santa Claus parade. Further east, on
Jarvis Street were some of the city's most luxurious homes.
The antiquated teaching methods, the incompetence and
the indifference which had previously plagued Toronto high
schools ended with the nineteenth century. Progress in
education mushroomed in an effort to keep pace with the
progress of the rapidly changing city. One advancement was the
amalgamation of the Grammar and Public School Boards in 1902
to form the Toronto Board of Education. Henceforth, the
trustees would be elected rather than appointed. Another
improvement in public education was the founding of the
Toronto Secondary School Athletic Association in 1905. One of
its first events was the rugby championship at Varsity Stadium in
which Parkdale defeated Jarvis 12-1 to win the Gooderham Cup.
So successful was the occasion that it replaced the "Games" as
the primary athletic event of the year.
Jarvis Collegiate also welcomed the twentieth century
with its share of innovations. Classroom candles and coal-oil
lamps were stored away as electric lights were installed.
Discipline was enforced with the assigning of "detentions". Other
firsts included school cheers, school caps and a boys' baseball
team.
Dr. MacMurchy's successor Major Fred Manley, graduated
from Jarvis in 1870 with a university scholarship and returned
four years later as an English and mathematics master. During
.4
Major Fred Manley graduated from Jarvis in 1870 and began his teaching
career in the school four years later. He served as principal from 1900 to
1906.
70

In 1904 Jarvis Street Collegiate graduated only ten pupils.
The fee and attendance chart demonstrates a decrease in
enrolment of 30% per grade:
Form
1 $ 6.00
2 $15.00
3 $21.00
4 $27.00
Attendance
190
126
88
The staffing situation in Ontario schools had altered
radically since Mrs. Howe's appointment in 1871 as the first and
only female teacher. Some thirty years later, 75% of the teachers
hired in the province were young, unmarried women. In effect,
the Boards of Education exploited women by paying them half a
man's salary. A woman was paid from $225 to $675 per annum
while her male counterpart received from $600 to $900 for equal
work.*2
Ironically, the trustees chose to exploit women professionally,
as the Jarvis Old Boys' Association proceeded to give
them equal status socially. At the annual meeting held in
December, 1900, Professor Baker moved "that the constitution
be so changed as to admit for membership principal,
teachers, ex-teachers, pupils of the fifth and sixth forms and all
ex-pupils." *3 The motion was carried. The name of the
organization was also changed to the "Toronto Grammar School
Ex-pupils' Association"
Despite the gesture, the women chose to boycott the "old
boys". In 1902 they ignored the Association's annual meeting and
none were elected to its executive. Instead, in December, 1903,
while taking tea in the assembly hall, approximately fifty ladies
who were ex-pupils founded the "Old Girls' Association". Dr.
Helen MacMurchy was unanimously chosen president; Stella
Phillips, vice-president; and Janie Thomas, secretary.
One member of that Association was Bertha Harmer, a
graduate of 1901. After becoming a nurse, she wrote Textbook of
the Principles and Practice of Nursing, which became the
standard text in hospitals throughout North America and was
translated into several languages. She was responsible for
organizing Yale University's School of Nursing, and later
*4 became
director of the McGill School for Graduate Nurses.
In 1901 Major Manley had the Union Jack returned to its
rightful perch atop the school flagpole which had been
bannerless for several years. Initially fraught with danger, the
mission was completed joyously with little ado. The World's
account of it is delightful:
HOW THEY SHINNED THE POLE.
Inside History About the Old Grammar
School Flagstaff.
The halyards of the flagstaff of the Jarvisstreet
Collegiate Institute had by some mishap
become "unrove," and a flag had not been spread
out to the breeze for many a year from its ample
top.
This was not in accord with the military and
patriotic sentiments of the new principal, so the
question was as to how the damage could be
repaired and the new flag that had for some strange
reason been provided by the general Board of
Trustees, be allowed to flutter in the breeze.
When it is known that the flagstaff is on the
pinnacle of a tower that rises rather ungracefully
from a very angular roof over the great assembly
hall, when it is mentioned that the approach to the
said tower is thru a small trap door in the roof of the
said hall, and when it is remarked that the "truck" of
the pole is 109 feet from the ground the immensity
of the job becomes apparent.
The architect of the board was approached,
but, like the story of "Bill Adams and the 'Dook' " he
did not care about "takin' on the job." He pictured
a rotten pole, an immense expanse of scaffolding,
and men falling hundreds of feet to their death,
much to the chagrin of the Board of Trustees and
the surrounding public, not to mention an ambulance
in immediate attendance!
The principal must look elsewhere for solace.
The Price Was Too Steep.
He was told that a certain contractor had
made himself famous at flag-raising on the roof of a
well-known newspaper down town. This man was
summoned to the "sanctum sanctorum" of the
71

school, and, after much thought and pencilling, he
declared that, considering the danger and professional
etiquet, etc., he would "take on the job" for
$150.
The principal, after gathering himself together
from the shock, managed to drive into the
contractor's head that the loyalty of the Institute
was great, but that it could not stand such pressure
as that amount implied, and so the contractor went
his way in peace. Visions of departed loyalty, or a
small flag hung out of an attic window, solaced the
principal to sleep for many evenings, when he
dreamed a dream, and bethought himself of some
more democratic aid for his loyal project.
The picture of Dick Fogler, the master of the
schooner Oriole, and his gallant crew arose from
the dense mist, and Dick was summoned to the
classical domains of the school.
He viewed the situation placidly, as he would a
topmast head or a misplaced burgee, and while the
principal awaited his verdict with bated breath he
gave his trousers the well-known "Dick Deadeye"
hitch, and declared in the words of Horatio Nelson
that he would "take on the job for twenty dollars."
As soon as the principal had recovered from
his converse shock he shook hands with the gallant
tar, which is a nautical form of striking a bargain.
A day was fixed and it turned out to be a "hot
'un." The master paraded with a crew of three —
Martin, Jack and Charley — all topmast hands.
Armed With Common Sense.
They were armed with small and large ladders,
straps, tackle, paint and a large amount of common
sense.
As the assembly hall was in possession of the
examiner in Greek, and three or four candidates,
the climbers were obliged to utilize the ladders
which the painters happened to be using at the time
in improving the front of the building.
In a few minutes, under the guidance of Dick,
who lay on his back on the front lawn under the
benevolent shade of a maple tree, the three hands
had by some occult means reached the tower.
In less time than it takes to write it Martin was
at the foot of the pole, which appeared to grow out
of the top of the pyramidal roof of the tower. '
"Give it a shake, Martin," says Dick, 'and
shove a knife into it."
This was done, and as staff and tower moved
together, it was pronounced safe.
"Dick!" cried Martin, "you could fry a pancake
on this slate roof!"
Up went Martin like a monkey to the pole head
with the Russian hemp halyards tightly held in his
teeth.
"There's a lot of old nails in the truck," called
down the climber.
"Come down and get a knife and take them
out," replied the manager, still prone on the velvety
grass
Ṫhis was soon done and the halyards were
safely in place.
By a series of catlike acts of agility, the white
paint pot was raised from the ground to the roof,
and nicely brought up to the foot of the pole.
How They Hoisted the Paint
"How are you going to get the paint pot to the
top of the pole, Dick?" asked the now puzzled
principal in his choicest mathematical language.
"What do you think we've rove the halyards
for?" retorted the placid skipper.
Up went the pot to the 109-foot mark, and after
it went Jack for a change and a relief to Martin.
The pole was painted as easily as if it had been
on the ground, notwithstanding the remark from
Martin when aloft that "It had not been painted for
100 years!"
The men were wet with perspiration, and on
reaching the ground were taken into the gymnasium,
where they enjoyed some light and well-earned
refreshments.
The architect was invited up next day to see
the change, but the principal does not think it safe
to call the $150 contractor around.
And thus ended the safe reeving of Jarvis
school halyards.
72

Mr. Lehmann 's physics class.
The most exciting performance of 1901 took place during
the Easter "At Home". At the conclusion of a musical program in
the assembly hall, the principal invited the audience of 200 pupils
to adjourn to the chemical laboratory to "witness the working of
the 'wireless telegraphy" under the direction of the science
master, Carl Lehmann. Major Manley added that this showing
was the $irst in any school in Canada. According to The World:
"The audience . was astonished at the wonderful invention,
which conveyed messages from one end of the room to the other
without any visible connection." *6 For his encore the future
principal of Malvern Collegiate exhibited his own colour
photographs which were "taken from life and not tinted", and
were "supposed to be the first ever shown in Canada."*7 A
limelight projected the image onto a sheet which acted as a
screen. The most impressive photo contained flowers, ribbons
and a flag, "the latter being particularly accurate and distinct."
The World continued, "The method used was Mr. Lehmann's
own, and if not too costly will doubtless be much sought after, for
everyone has longed for the time when color as well as form will
be reproduced by means of photography." *8
Not all the events which occurred in Mr. Lehmann's "lab"
were as pleasant. Islay Brown (née Agnew) grimaced as she
described the preamble to the 1907 dissection of a dove. "A few
boys went out once and gathered up some live pigeons for the
73

each given one. Mine was sleek and pretty. I didn't want to
asphyxiate it so I hid it under the desk. But, Mr. Lehmann caught
me and I had to watch it die under the bell jar."
The Scientific Society was organized in 1902 by interested
students of the third and fourth forms with Mr. Lehmann as
president. Its programs were comprised of impromptu speeches,
lectures and the reading of the Society's paper. Two years later
it amalgamated with the "Lit." to form the Literary and Scientific
Society. As a result, the new organization's programs also
included music and debates. When a mock trial was performed at
its final meeting of 1905, more than 400 attended. The name of
the manuscript journal was changed to The Literary and
Scientific Review of J.C.I., and, as before, was read at the
Society's bi-monthly meetings.
In December, 1904, a printed monthly publication was
proposed with Gilbert Robertson as editor-in-chief and William
Defries, business-manager. The name selected for the journal,
The Magnet, apparently reflected the scientific aspect of the
Society and its desire to attract contributors. The first issue,
published in January, 1905, sold for five cents. It contained
twenty-four pages, several advertisements, a few articles and a
photograph of the rugby team. Five numbers of the first volume
were issued before the end of the school year. Gilbert Robertson
who had suggested the name, Magnet, split the profit of twenty
cents with his assistant, William McNaught. In 1939 Mr.
Robertson still possessed "the first dime he ever made"
Because of the amount of work required to produce such
a publication, it was decided to issue a larger "term journal"
during the next school year. Among the interesting advertisements
was a bold "Votes for Women — Boys! It's Up to You".
Another introduced a new gadget called "Moore's Non-leakable
Fountain Pen", which was "clean to use, fill, carry and handle".
The term journals continued to appear until June, 1909, when
they were suspended indefinitely. The Magnet was not printed
again until 1922.
An annual event which filled the assembly hall in 1905 was
the Old Boys' and Old Girls' "At Home". The speaker of the
previous promenade had been alumnus Ernest Thompson
Seton, and the committee had had difficulty arranging a program
of equal interest. But on January 27th, a twelve-year-old pianist
from form I-C gained instant respect with his performance of
Cowen's The Children's Home. His name — Ernest MacMil-
Ian. He again demonstrated his talent at the February meeting
of the Literary and Scientific Society, after which a Magnet editor
wrote, "MacMillan is one of the youngest pupils in the school, and
his playing was certainly marvelous for a lad of his age. The
Society feels quite proud of its musical prodigy."* 3
htjtdWte utenv&ntific
MtltUte•
fivecero:
VOL No L.
The first Magnet was published in January, 1905. The
title symbolized the desire to attract contributors and
advertisers as well as the literary and scientific aspects
of the ' 'Lit."
74

At-Dome Committee
JarviO St.
Collegiate Inotitute
R. G. Min.
Cbc Literary R Scientific
Society
ftbruary 2.1
'905
S«kt'
Sir Ernest MacMillan performed at the 'Lit's." 1905 ' 'At Home".
At the end of the school year, Ernest's classmates chose
to immortalize him with a limerick in The Magnet's form news:
There was a phenom named McMillan [sic],
Who was with his work very willin',
You may ask if he's smart,
And you'll get quite a start,
Why his exams are simply a-killin'.*14
Immediately following the publication of the above, Ernest went
to England to continue his education. Before retirement in 1956
the famous organist-composer-conductor had distinguished
himself as director of the Mendelssohn Choir for fifteen years,
conductor of the Toronto Symphony for twenty-five years and
Dean of the University of Toronto's Faculty of Music. In 1935 he
was knighted for his contribution to Canadian music. When
Jarvis celebrated its 150th anniversary in 1957, Sir Ernest again
performed, this time in the new auditorium.
Other prominent ex-pupils of the Manley era include Dr.
Alan Brown, a paediatrician and physician-in-chief at the Hospital
for Sick Children. His text, The Normal Child, Its Care and
Feeding, ran to four editions. After being hired as an actuary
by the Crown Life Insurance Company, Roy Stephenson
advanced until he became president and chairman of the board.
Major Bert Wemp, an editor with The Telegram was elected
Mayor of Toronto in 1929.
In 1900 the popular, energetic "Billy" Michell, who had
taught classics for three years, replaced the new principal as
head of the Cadet Corps. His first accomplishment was to obtain
tunics for "A" company just prior to their participation in the
reception for H.R.H. the Prince of Wales. The cadets regularly
took part in drills, skirmishes, parades and receptions. Annual
events included a picnic at the Old Mill, inspection, a postinspection
tea (only ladies with invitations could attend), and a
visit to the Yonge Street ice cream parlor with Mr. Michell
picking up the "tab".
In 1902 the Queen's Own Rifles allowed the cadets to have
rifle-practice at the miniature ranges in the city armouries on
alternate weeks during the winter. "In order to give cadets
additional practice in musketry, a 'sub-target' gun was installed in
the school by the government" in 1906. *16 In May of that year "A"
company were positioned as number one company, number one
battalion for inspection by H.R.H. Prince Arthur of Connaught.
75

There is little doubt that it was regarded as Toronto's finest cadet
corps.
In 1901 Major Manley made minor concessions towards
relaxing the rules designed to separate the sexes. A motion was
passed at a staff meeting stating that girls may promenade
between their form doors in their own corridor.*17 To the boys
this was the best news since the installation of the two-handled
pump! Nevertheless, three years later, the principal "called
attention to the necessity of preventing commingling of the
sexes, to attain which, promenading in the halls must be stopped
at the quarter The Major's amendment had one
positive effect — pupils arrived at school earlier.
There were several staff changes from 1900 February, 1904, Wilbur Grant, who had
to
been 1906.
the In
master for twenty-three years died suddenly. commercial
While Jarvis he had won a university scholarship a
(1873). pupil
In at
students presented the school with a
his
memorial honour
tablet hung in the rotunda. After serving fourteen which
years as was'
the Literary Society and seventeen years as
president
English of
kindly George Chase retired in 1906. His lengthy, master, grey the
sideburns
.1
Cadet Corps of 1904
76

The annual cadet inspection was followed by a tea. Only ladies with invitations could attend.
77

Among the new, influential teachers were Robert Gray
(1900) and Fred Clarke ( 1904), the school's future principal. But
most appreciated was the return of the 1899 Souvenir editor, the
witty and fresh and beautiful Winnie Spence.
Jessie Greenaway recalled, "All the people waited around
the hall just to see her pass ... She was approachable and a good
teacher. " Major Conn Smyt he explained, "Everybody loved Miss
Spence. She was so vivacious and pretty." Five years after she
began her career, she retired to become a homemaker.
In the spring of 1906 poor health caused Major Manley to
resign. Due to the school's "critical condition", Dr. Embree,
principal of Parkdale Collegiate, was transferred to Jarvis
S.C.I.
After thirty-two years as master and principal, Major
Manley made his exit with little hurrah. In a tribute to him which
was published in The Magnet, Mr. Chase wrote,
When I first came to the school [Major Manley] was
a prime favourite of the boys; the strong hand he
kept over his class, the bluff military manner, his
interest in sports — all appealed to them ... At a
banquet he was in his element, and he contributed
much to the enjoyment by his songs, for he was a
good singer, as the Literary Society knew full well
It was hard to see the strong man failing thus,
and so rapidly!*20
Major Manley died the following year. It wasn't until 1910
that the Ex-pupils' Association commissioned Wyly Grier to
paint his portrait
Minutes, School Management Committee, Toronto Board of
(Dec. 30, 1901).
2 Annual Report, Local Superintendent of the Public Schc»ls of the
Toronto.
3 Minutes. Meetings of the Old Boys' of the Old Grammar School.
(Dec. 10, 1900).
4 Tunis, Barbara, In Cap and Gowns: the Study of the School for Graduate
Nurses, McGill University, 192064 (Montreal: McGill University
April 30, 1966).
5 "How They Shinned the Pole, " The World (Aug. 5, 1901).
6 "Wireless Telegraphy," The World (May 30, 1901).
7 Ibid, and Manley, F., Record Of Events, 1901-1904 (Mar. 29. 1901).
8 The Globe (May 30, 1901).
9 MacKenzie, Elma St. G., "Our Literary Society, 1864-1907," The Magnet
(1907).
10 Hickling, J., "Alumni," The Magnet (1939).
11 The Magnet (Jan., 1905).
12 Programme, "At Home", Old Boys' and Old Girls' Association (Jan. 27.
1905).
13 The Magnet (Feb., 1905).
14 The Magnet (May, 1905).
15 Hickling, J., op. cit.
16 Alley, H., op. cit.
17 Minutes, Staff of Jarvis Collegiate Institute, 1892-1907 (Jan. 28, 1901).
18 Minutes, Staff Of Jarvis Collegiate Institute, 1892-1907 (Jan. 4, 1904).
19 Cochrane, H., op. cit.
20 Chase, G., Major Manley, The Magnet (1907).
21 Minutes, The Ex-pupils' Association, Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute (Jan.
10, 1910).
78

ac.i.
1908 Football Team. Standing, left to right: Brig. G. Lye, Armstrong, Tichener, Henderson, Perry. D.
Gardner, Peter Munro, A. Gray, G. Harcourt. Kneeling: M. McKenzie, B. Clerk, Percy (Jr.), E, Dopp. Sitting:
H. Barry, F, Mills, R. Stalker, B. Davidson.
79

CHAPTER 10
cage. During the latter's twenty-three years on staff, his stern
glare and vicious moustache may have obscured a fondness for
his pupils, but they never resulted in disrespect for his teaching
ability. Other new and memorable masters of the Embree era
were Charles "Latin" Barnes, Helen Durie and Marguerite
O'Connell.
Students of the pre-war years from 1906
cheerful and vigorous
to
existence.
1914 led
Football
a
games at
park, skating at Prospect Park
Riverdale
and "dips" in the Don
popular after-school activities.
River
On
were
weekends, bicycles
streetcars carried everyone
and
to the
open
beaches, where they
cruise on the Cayuga or picnic at
could
Centre Island. In 1909
Toronto's 300,000
many
inhabitants of
witnessed the city's first
Charles Willard's airplane
flight.
took off three times and
times
crashed
— right into Lake
three
Ontario. On Yonge Street, however, the
$750 Ford was performing admirably. Laura Tubby, a graduate of
1913, remembered, "You seldom saw a car, but when you did,
you ran to see it." One didn't have to hurry since the speed limit
was only 15 miles per hour. As hemlines rose from ankle bone to
boot top, the skyline rose with the construction of the Royal
Alexandra Theatre, Toronto General Hospital and Casa Loma.
Jarvis Collegiate averaged only thirteen graduates per
year from 1906 to 1913, but that number increased markedly the
following year. After writing the "departmental" examinations in
the assembly hall, twenty-six successful candidates obtained
their upper school diplomas.
The new principal, Dr. Luther Embree, had previously
taught at Jarvis from 1873 to 1876 while attending the University
of Toronto and had subsequently served as principal of Parkdale
Collegiate for eighteen years. His restoration of efficiency,
discipline and high standards to Jarvis was welcomed by parents,
staff and students.
Among the teachers he hired were a former student and
Cadet Corps captain, William Jennings; Embree's successor as
principal, John Jeffries; the admired mathematics master, Peter
Lougheed; the English instructor after whom our previous library
was named, Dr. Edwin Hardy; and the roaring, rotund linguist,
Harold "Tappy" Tapscott, whose long poker prodded many a rib
f'
Dr. Luther E. Embree was sent to Jarvis in 1906 in
order to clean up the Collegiate's "deteriorating
condition". His restoration of efficiency, discipline and
standards took only weeks. He retired in 1914.
81

The staff of Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute, 1907: Standing. left to right: W. A. Jennings, H W. Gundy.
W.J. Lougheed. J, Keillor. J. Jeffries, F.H. Clarke, R. Wightman. T.J. Ivey. Seated: C. Lehmann. W.C.
W. Spence, L.E. Embree, J. Thomas. G E. Shaw, R.A. Gray.
82

Just prior to the 1907 centenary celebrations, the "old
boys" and reluctant "old girls" chose to declare a temporary
truce and to cooperate in the school's interest — but only until
December 31, 1907! In March of that year at ajoint meeting of the
Associations' centenary committees, it was agreed that their
executives form a united body for the centennial year. The
"mixed" executive initiated three projects: the founding of an
athletic prize, the creation of a centenary tablet and the
establishment of a scholarship. *1
During a gala celebration on December 12th, Mrs. W.
Wallace, president of the Old Girls' Association presented the
centenary tablet; Mr. C. Baxter, treasurer of the Old Boys
Association, presented the scholarship; and Janie Thomas
presented the athletic prize.*2
The 365-day truce passed without a single violation.
Although a tense situation had flared up at one meeting when a
man unwittingly nominated an all-male committee, a crisis was
averted when Professor Baker nominated an equal number of
women to serve on the same committee.
Centenary Athletic Award won by Fred Mills in 1911.
Courtesy: Barbara Burns.
1807
Pr6gramme
A, Ke.vr. ev
Programme
PART IL
peg.' 'or tN7 re
1907
Programme for 100th Anniversary banquet.
83

In February 1908, the joint centenary committee of the
Old Boys' and Old Girls' Associations met again and appointed a
delegation to consider the matter of amalgamation. At a meeting
held during the annual "At Home" the following recommendations
were placed before both Associations:
(1) that it is advisable to amalgamate the Old Boys'
Association and Old Girls' Association.
(2) The amalgamated association shall be called the Expupils'
Association of the Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute.
(3) All ex-pupils shall be eligible for membership as well as
masters and ex-masters.
(4) The organization shall include two vice-presidents
and two joint secretaries. *3
The motion to accept the recommendations was carried by both
organizations. The feud had ended.
With the amalgamation as a source of conversation, the
600 "At Home" revellers left the assembly hall shortly after
midnight, unaware that the excitement was far from over:At 1:00
a.m. the acetylene lamp, that romantic reminder of pre-electric
promenades, exploded; and before the flames could be
extinguished, firemen had to drag the burning fixture into the
yard by means of a rope. Only "the wainscoting of the top floor
and the stairway were damaged", but parents viewed the mishap
as a near catastrophe. *4 They were apprehensive, and with good
reason. Many children had been killed in Montreal and Cleveland
school fires the previous year, fire reels were still horse-drawn
and the school's interior was highly flammable. *5 In their
response to complaints the Board introduced a number of safety
measures to prevent any possible calamity. Mayor Church also
promised the grade 9 students that they would graduate from a
new school and this promise was renewed annually for fifteen
years before it was actually realized.
The introduction of hockey in 1906 proved an instant
success. The boys formed a team and played a few games with
other high schools, although no champion was declared. The
girls' team, organized the following year, lost every game until it
challenged its male counterpart. The resulting game must have
been scrappy as "there were usually two or three boys
decorating the fence for breaches of the rules." *6 After five
minutes of overtime, the game was halted with the score — boys
3, girls 3.
Volleyball, gymnastics and potato races took place in the
dismal, cold, brick boys' gymnasium located just south of the
school. The most interesting aspect of this two-storey structure
was the floor's ability, with the slightest provocation, to
"bounce". By the time the building was finally condemned,
physical education classes had to be reduced to one half their
former size. *7 The girls' gymnasium, which was situated in the
north-east corner of the school yard was in a similar state of
dilapidation. Beatrice Bryce recalled: "There on a floor full of
splinters we did things with dumb-bells, wands and Indian clubs
and practised basket-ball."
The following account of the 1903 Interscholastic Games
summarizes the plight of the annual intercollegiate "rhubarb"
which masqueraded as a track and field final:
The students of Harbord street took possession
of the northern end of the stand and hung out their
pennant of black and yellow from a pole. Their
display was conspicuous. Every boy and girl
belonging to the school carried its colours, and
their shouts of advice and howls of approbation
could not but embolden the most faint-hearted of
the institute representatives on the oval. The
aloofness of the Harbord students from those of
Jameson and Jarvis aroused the ire of the latter.
The boys, egged on by the girls, made an impetuous
onslaught on the Harbordites and attempted to
capture their pennant. But the rope suspending the
flag was too well guarded, and the invaders retired
discomfited. The next rush of the allies against the
Harbordites was resistless. The latter's pennant
was dragged down and torn to tatters. The victors
then hilariously returned to their confines. Then
was there vengeance vowed by the vanquished.
They gathered together their crowd, every man
they could scare up, and tore down among the allies
like a whirlwind. The melee was furious. Coats were
torn and "Christies" dinged, while the uproar was
deafening.
COMMITTEE HAD TO INTERFERE.
The Games Committee had to leave its
85

The Boys' Hockey Club. 1909: Standing, left to right: J. Townsend, H. Fierherrer, J. Walker. Seated: Mr.
Munro, O. V. Ball, G.E. Harcourt. A.B. Holmes. Mr. Michell. Bottom row: E.S. Mills, D.R. Stone, J.S. Grant.

As a precautionary measure, the police were called upon
to maintain some decorum over the Varsity athletic field during
the 1907 competition. According to The Magnet the vigilantes
were not appreciated:
Our annual inter-collegiate "debate" which usually
takes place at the Interscholastic Games, was this
year somewhat disturbed by the presence of a
stalwart squad of blue-coats. *9
The only fracas occurred when a Jarvis student hurled a
chestnut at P.C. No. 23, The Magnet concluded:
their own with the best at drill; but if new uniforms
are not provided it is unlikely they will face the
public in the so-called uniforms now in use. The
general desire appears to be for a rifle outfit, and
why should the boys not have it? It is to be hoped
that either the Department of Militia and Defence
or the school board, or both, will make arrangements
whereby this splendid organization may be
able to take its place in the coming tournament. *12
We sincerely hope that next year we will be allowed
to have our scrap in peace.*10
In 1908, despite the presence of the police, the "rushes"
returned with more enthusiasm than ever. Threatening to end
the "Games", the principals appointed a peace committee of
approximately thirty boys per school to help maintain order. *11
When the event concluded in 1909, the administration was
pleased that the brawling had ceased, and Jarvis was pleased
with its eighth city championship.
Although J.S.C.I. football teams lacked coaches, defensive
signals and protective equipment, they managed to win their
first T .S.S.A.A. Senior Rugby Championship in 1910. A year later
the Junior Rugby Team won its first title.
The Cadet Corps also continued to triumph under Dr.
Embree. No sooner was a rifle team established in 1907, than it
promptly won twenty-one of the forty-five annual awards
available to Toronto cadets plus Sir Henry Pellatt's Intercollegiate
Rifle Shooting Prize. The captain of the team, Prof. Harry
Madill, later served as director of the University of Toronto's
School of Architecture for twenty-three years.
The Cadet Corps' only major defect was described in The
World:
This corps is certainly deserving of consideration,
and although the officers and men do not complain,
they feel that the uniforms now in use should be
replaced by new ones. The outfit consists of a tunic
and cap only, and the caps are shabby in the
extreme. The boys are eager to take part in the
military tournament, and feel that they can hold
Cadet Corps, 1915.
The cadets finally received their new uniforms late the following
year.
Lower school students must have regarded themselves as
persecuted in 1911. Their double misfortune included the
compulsory study of both French and Latin, and, unlike the other
grades, their continued division into segregated classes. Being a
freshman, however, did have one compensation. For the first
time in history, all resident students in form I received free tuition.
89

Non-residents were billed $2.00 per term and the remaining fees
were set according to the following scale:
2nd form - $3.00 per term per resident.
3rd form - $5.00 per term per resident.
4th form - $7.00 per term per resident.
5th form - $9.00 per term per resident.
In 1913 the Board of Education's inspector discovered
that only 17 per cent of the pupils in downtown schools were
Canadian born; of the 57 per cent who were Jewish immigrants
from ,Russia, many had enrolled at J.S.C.I.*13 In less than a
decade the mother tongue of 28 per cent of the school's
population would be Yiddish.
Among the noteworthy pupils of the Embree era was 1906
entrance scholarship winner Roy Thomson, who withdrew after
completing his first year, in order to help support his family.
During his lifetime he managed to acquire more than one
hundred daily newspapers and to receive the title, Lord
Thomson of Fleet. Long-distance runner Charlie Petch was
also a potential international celebrity, but he was thwarted by a
rulebook. In 1907 he interrupted his form IV studies to run in the
Boston Marathon, where he placed sixth. The following year,
while preparing for the 1908 Olympics, he won the Jarvis
Centenary Award. Unfortunately, he jeopardized his amateur
status by accepting money for participating in another sport, and
was barred by the Canadian Amateur Athletic Union from taking
part in the Olympics. Another pre-war Jarvisite, Major Conn
Symthe (1910-12), was also active in extra-curricular activities.
Some fifty-five years later, he wistfully recalled the Junior
Basketball Championship and a loss to the Girls' Debating Team
"because I used such modern terms as 'gee whiz' and 'gosh
darn'. " With a mellowing in his vigorous voice, he added, "But the
Jarvis girls started me in business. They made Varsity pennants
and arm-bands which we sold at U. of T." In subsequent years
Major Smythe owned the Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club,
constructed Maple Leaf Gardens, won the Queen's Plate twice
and placed his name on the Stanley Cup seven times. His close
friend "Gene" Dopp, who was awarded the Centenary Athletic
Prize in 1914, was elected to the Lacrosse Hall of Fame in
recognition of his active participation for nearly fifty years in the
Canadian Amateur Lacrosse Association.
Tom Wedlock, the janitor from 1877 to 1914 was
sketched by J.S. Murray.
For Dr. Embree the opening of several new high schools
meant the loss of some of his best teachers to principalships.
Robert Gray, a nine-year veteran of the English Department was
appointed to Oakwood (1909); Carl Lehmann, the demonstrator
of wireless telegraphy and instructor in the "old school" for
twelve years, was sent to Malvern Collegiate (1910). "Billy"
Michell, who had joined the Jarvis staff in 1897, became principal
of Riverdale C.I. the same year. Dr. Peter Munro, after seven
years of service to Minerva, resigned in 1913 and was
subsequently appointed Principal of Ryerson Training School.
Dr. Embree shared the retirement limelight in 1914 with
the respected custodian, Tom Wedlock. For thirty-seven years
90

the popular, pot-bellied gentleman, along with his infamous cats,
had made incessant repairs to the wobbly walls and futile fences.
When Dr. Embree returned to Jarvis in 1906 to rescue it
from its "critical condition", it appeared that such an accomplishment
would require years of effort. According to Mrs.
Greenaway, he completed the task in one term. By 1914, J.S.C.I.
had refurbished its tarnished reputation, discipline was in hand,
the quality of teaching had improved notably and extra-curricular
activities were expanding ... Dr. Embree may not have been one
of the most eccentric principals in our history, but he must be
considered one of the most successful.
1 Minutes, Old Boys' Association (Apr. 15, May 13, Sept. 23, Dec. 2, 1907).
2 Ibid.
3 Minutes, Old Boys' Association (Feb. 28, 1908).
4 "Gas Exploded in School," The Evening Telegram (Mar. 5, 1908).
5 Cochrane, H., op. cit.
6 The Magnet (Easter, 1908).
7 Agnes Diltz.
8 "Collegiate Boys' Games," The Evening Telegram (Oct. 9, 1903).
9 The Magnet (Dec., 1907).
10 Ibid.
11 Minute Book, Jarvis Collegiate Institute Games Committee (Oct. 7, 1908).
12 The World (Mar. 22, 1908).
13 Chief Inspector's Report, Toronto Board of Education (1913).
14 Braddon, R., Roy Thomson of Fleet Street (Toronto: Collins, 1965).
IJI
Football Team, 1911.
Courtesy: Major Conn Smythe and Barbara Burns.
91

Class photo, 1922-23.
Courtesy: William Eisenberg.
93

a position there'. That fall, 1906, I received a
telegram from Dr. Embree asking me to become
head of the English department in Jarvis. *3
CHAPTER 11
On August 20, 1914, a jubilant crowd lined University
Avenue to watch Toronto's first contingent of young, naive
soldiers march to Cherry Street Station on the initial leg of a
journey which would conclude in the trenches of the Great War.
The response of Jarvisites to "join up" was overwhelming; before
armistice 425 would enlist for various reasons. Many needed a
job, a few sought adventure, some possessed a patriotic zeal to
defend "the mother country", others simply responded to the
intimidation of a formidable recruitment campaign. Agnes Diltz
(née Brown) explained: "When the boys went to war, we didn't
take it too seriously. We didn't know what war was, not until the
body of Capt. Darling came home. He received a military funeral
and the cortege went up Jarvis Street."
It was easy for most scholars to ignore the news from
Europe. After school they could sneak into the Mary Pickford
Theatre to enjoy the latest silent movie or visit the newly opened
Royal Ontario Museum. When winter arrived, everyone skated
to a "live" band at the "Little Vic" Rink or shot the perilous
Riverdale bobsled run. *
A week after the first contingent boarded the train for
Valcartier, John Jeffries, the esteemed, authoritative, gruff
English master became the new principal. *2 In 1906 he had
regarded his appointment to the staff as a dream come true:
For some years before coming to Jarvis I had
selected Jarvis as the school in which I would like to
teach. During my college days I boarded on Jarvis
Street near the school and it held a particular
fascination for me, although there seemed very
little prospect of my teaching there.
In the summer of 1906, I was marking
examination papers in Toronto and one evening
while sitting in Allan Gardens with my wife, I looked
up at the old school and said: 'l wonder if I'll ever get
John Jeffries entered Jarvis as head of the English Department in 1906
He served as principal from 1914 to 1934
Photo: Walter Moorhouse.
As principal, he now faced the dilemma of an expanding
student population housed in an inadequate building with
insufficient facilities. By 1923, five portable classrooms were
squeezed into the yard, two classrooms were partitioned off at
the rear of the assembly hall and 950 scholars were crowded into
361 Jarvis Street.
Nor was Mr. Jeffries' quandary lessened by the numerous
projects organized to aid the "old boys" overseas. Musical
concerts, dramatic productions, victory loan campaigns and
culinary bazaars were regular events. Janie Thomas described a
ribbon thermometer which was kept in the entrance hall:
The amount of money collected was marked
by the hand of the little girl, cut from one of the
Government War Bond posters. As the money was
collected the little girl was to show the grand total.
Both teachers and pupils gathered in the hall at
recess to watch Mr. Jefferies, [sic] the principal,
raise her. *4
94

When the war ended, the Jarvis Patriotic and Philanthropic Fund
had contributed nearly $5,000 to various Toronto war agencies.
Substantial contributions also came from the J.C.I. Patriotic
Wool Fund. Each week, every student donated five cents toward
the purchase of wool which was used to knit socks, scarves and
sweaters. These items, along with clothing, cigarettes, nonperishable
foods and the newsy letter known as a "ditty", were
stuffed into boxes and mailed to Jarvisites in uniform. Sixty years
later veterans still recall those "ditty bags" with sincere
appreciation.
During the summer students aided the war effort by
becoming "Soldiers of the Soil" (S.O.S.). The government had
created the program in an attempt to alleviate an acute
manpower shortage. As Harold "Baldy" Cotton explained: "You
were given your year and allowed to leave school early in order to
work on a farm. I went out on the first of May to Schomberg.
Nearly killed myself. Those farmers! Could they ever work you
for $12.00 a month. A lot of kids went up. They thought it would
be a picnic, but it wasn t.
For Agnes Diltz the experience was more enjoyable. "In
1917 ten girls and fourteen boys went to work on the farm. The
girls were called "farmerettes". Bessie Ashdown and I worked at
Queenston gathering strawberries, picking cherries, putting
handles on baskets and doing all the work on a fruit farm. We
were up at 6:00 a.m. to prepare breakfast and do the dishes.
People frowned upon girls working, but we didn't mind. The next
year they took on more, and many of them worked in munition
factories."
As the war progressed, injuries and casualties took their
toll on the "old boys". A class photo of form 4-B taken prior to
1910 tells a tragic tale. The three boys standing in the upper left
corner were all killed in action .
While many Jarvis students fought and died in Europe,
one former master, the Hon. Samuel Hughes, found himself
embroiled in a political scandal at home. Sir Sam, the World War
I Minister of Militia, was investigated by the Royal Commission
on Shell Contracts for allegedly awarding same without first
requesting bids. Lyman Duff, the Chief Justice of the Supreme
Court and a Jarvis graduate was appointed by Prime Minister
Borden to head the Commission. Justice Duff demonstrated
little sympathy for his former master, and was instrumental in
causing him to resign from the cabinet. *6
As the war worsened in 1917 floating hulks, the trademark
of German submarines, became a common sight off Halifax
harbour. To add to the general misery an influenza epidemic
broke out in 1918 with such severity that the commencement had
to be cancelled. Mrs. Diltz remembered, "When you went by Mt.
Pleasant cemetery, the coffins were lined up awaiting interment
because they didn't have enough staff to bury them."
By October, with the end of the war in sight, prosperity
and happiness were on the horizon. After the formal opening of
the Prince Edward Viaduct across the Don Valley, a group of
patient, cheerful Jarvis students pedalled their bicycles across
*
the bridge to celebrate.
A month later the war ceased. It was time to tally the dead
and the damage, and time for Jarvis Collegiate to determine a
tribute worthy of 425 servicemen of whom seventy-seven would
not return.*8 In his address to the 1918 commencement Mr.
Jeffries referred, with pardonable pride, but also with deepest
personal sorrow to the lengthy list of our brave dead
They were to us mere laughing boys,
But in the passing of a breath
They turned from life's scarce-tasted joys
To this high majesty of death. *9
The campaign for the War Memorial Fund began in a
unique manner on April 26, 1918. Dr. Hardy asked many
prominent Canadian artists to provide the school with one or
more of their works for public auction. The artist would receive
half the proceeds, while the remainder would be donated to the
War Memorial Fund. The response was excellent. Dr. Hardy's
catalogue, A Sale of Pictures by Canadian Artists, listed one
hundred works from seventy-four artists including the Group of
Seven's Frank Carmichael, J.E.H. MacDonald, Arthur Lismer
and A.Y. Jackson. A few days prior to the sale, students carried
the canvasses to the Central Y.M.C.A. auditorium for general
viewing. *10 When the gavel fell ending the final sale, buyers were
pleased with their bargains and the War Memorial Fund had
earned $760.00.
96

A 01
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The program listing 100 works by 74 artists included paintings by four of the Group of Seven. The sale enabled
the War Memorial Fund to raise $760
97

Class 4-B prior to 1910. The three boys standing in the upper left corner were all killed in World War l.
95

A committee later agreed that the Memorial would consist
of four sections: the auditorium murals, the bronze tablet
containing the names of the war dead, the chalice of eternal light,
and the panels in the rotunda listing the names of those who
returned.
On June 2, 1921, in the girls' school yard, Lieut.-Col.
William Michell and former student, Helen Bryans, unveiled the
bronze tablet honouring the seventy-three ex-pupils of Jarvis
Collegiate who gave their lives during the Great War. *11 The
completion of the other three sections had to wait another eight
years.
Louis Borsook. Upon further examination, one notices that the
seniors standing in the window are wearing long pants in contrast
to the plus fours worn by the remaining boys. Copies of the
panoramas were sold for $1.50.
With the return of happier times in 1919 came an influx of
new fashions such as cameras, bobbed hair and softball. In ladies'
wear, what the knee-length skirt didn't reveal, the one-piece
bathing suit did. While mothers were discovering the benefits of
cod liver Oil, fathers were perfecting a cure for prohibition. A year
later Foster Hewitt began Hockey Night in Canada, a radio
program which would successfully lure Canadian listeners away
from U.S. stations. By 1927 both Union Station and the Royal
York Hotel were under construction.
The twenties also brought two major changes in
education. The age for compulsory school attendance was raised
from fourteen to sixteen years in 1920, and fees were
discontinued the following year.
G.W. Latta's arrival at Jarvis with his panoramic camera
in June, 1919, enticed the entire student body to pose in front of
the school for a gigantic, four-foot portrait. Ruth Brown
explained how her brother, Henry Rotenberg, managed to
appear in the print twice. As the camera panned from left to right,
it stopped at intervals and photographed a section of the overall
panorama. After Rotenberg had his picture taken in one area, he
then sprinted behind the hoard and ahead of the camera to the
south end where he was again photographed.
A similar portrait taken in May, 1922, demonstrates three
different instances of student ingenuity. Upon close inspection
one will discover a boy in the front row with "Form K" chalked on
his left shoe and "J.C.I." on his right. At both the right and left
sides of the picture can be seen Gerry Wood, Willard Cronk and
c,
'Che $ctnoriul tablet
Irortour of those laiö their lifreø in thc
aar6iø Street Collegiate •nøtitute-
Although seventy-three names of those who gave their lives in World
War I are listed on the bronze tablet, seventy-seven ex-pupils actually
died as a result of the war.
Jet
99

-4
1927 Senior Football Team: Standing, left to right: R. Allen, M. Davidson, J. Hodgins, F. Russell, J. Ragin,
G. Forbes, H. Hass, M. Wighton, W. Arrowsmith, E. Heenev, G. Blackford, N. Johnson, J. Gold, K. Barber,
W. Hamilton, H. Leverling, W. Levitt, D. Cohen, M. Kurtz, W. Markle, A. Eison, F. Bartlett (coach), Seated:
H. Goldenburg, N. Barber, J. Lennebaum.
Courtesy: Gordon Blackford.
A sad note follows the above story. In September, 1924,
Gerry Wood and "Alf" Davies drowned in Rice Lake as a result of
a canoe accident. The former won the Centenary Athletic Award
in 1922 and both played on Jarvis football and basketball teams.
One of the most popular sports during the Jeffries era was
football. Harold Cotton described his wartime rugby days at
Jarvis with pride and enthusiasm: "There was no coach and no
uniform. Your mother knitted your sweater and you made your
own padding for the pants . . The home field was the Don Flats.
We dressed on the banks of the river, stripped right off under the
trees, played the game and then went back to school and
changed."
Dr. Omond Solandt reminisced, "In those days intercollegiate
football was the football. Nobody had heard of the Argos in
the amateur O.R.F.U. League. By the thirties Argos and Varsity
were on a par."
In a 1927 football photo leather helmets and school
sweaters are visible, as is another equipment change which could
be considered startling, if not regressive — all the 'backs are
wearing short pants!
Despite these uniforms, Varsity and Argos must have
regarded Jarvis as a worthy source of talent. U. of T.'s 1921
football team included four of Minerva's mightiest: Gord
Duncan, Lawrence Murray, Louis Perlman and William
Prendergast. Other "old boys" of the decade who would play for
Varsity were Louis Borsook, Lou Carroll, Ed Heeney, Steve
Levandis, Doug MacPherson, Dr. Jack Sinclair, Dr. Arthur Smith,
Dr. Omond Solandt, Robert Teagle, Leslie Uren, Art Upper and
Ben Walker. Donald Wood quarterbacked both the "Blues" and
Ottawa Roughriders. Argo line-ups included John Munro, Doug
Turner and the versatile Cecil "Babe" Dye, who was inducted
into the Hockey Hall of Fame.
100

T.S.S.A.A. Basketball Champions, 1921-22: Standing, left to right: N. Krieghoff, C. Cather, H. Hersenhoren,
F. Johnson, Seated: Mr. Jeffries, E. Freeman, C. Montgomery, G. Wood, Mr. Allen.
101

Junior Girls' Basketball Team. 1921-22: Standing. left to right:G. Wood. H. St. John. C. Montgomery, Second
row: D. Ker. W. Wallace. I. Dickson. B. Menzies. F. Scott, Front row: G. Carleton, E. Weir, E. Walker.
Courtesy; Dorothy Young.
102

Jarvis Collegiate Institute Staff, 1924: Fourth row, left to right: M. Brokenshire, J. McKellar. W. Moorhouse, W. Feasby,
C.H. Barnes, J. Jenkins, A. E. Allin, Third row: M. McCamus, H. St. John, M. Sears. H. Durie. M. Nesbitt, C. Grant,
L. Smithson, H. Bryans, M.O'Connell, Second row: J. Sinclair, E.A.Hatdy, J. Thomas, J. Jeffries, W. Jennings, H. Tapscott,
CL. Barnes, Front row: L. McKerracher, J. Nelson, F. Staples, D. Blatchford.
103

During the Jeffries administration Jarvis athletics reached
its zenith. The 1919 Junior T.S.S.A.A. Rugby Championship was
overshadowed by three successive boys' basketball titles
beginning in 1920. In 1922 the girls celebrated the reestablishment
of their Athletic Association by winning the league
basketball championship.*12 The G.A.A.'s president, Frances
Stinson, later returned to J.C.I. as head of the Girls' Physical
Education Department.
In 1922 Jarvis had a record number of graduates as well as
students. Thirty-eight diplomas were presented, surpassing the
previous total of twenty-six set in 1914.
The population increase may have posed a problem for
Mr. Jeffries, but it ultimately revealed his greatest contribution to
the school — the assembly of one of the most respected staffs in
Ontario's history, including the twenty-seven teachers who
marched from the old to the new school in 1924. The lively John
McKellar was appointed to Jarvis in 1918. Ed Heeney said of his
former master, "If God ever meant you to learn mathematics,
McKellar could teach it." A year later, the enthusiastic, popular
classicist and photographer, Walter Moorhouse was hired. In
1922 Mr. Jeffries employed a record-setting eight new teachers.
They included John Sinclair, Douglas Blatchford and the
ambidextrous Lloyd "Mac" McKerracher, who could write on
the blackboard with either hand while chuckling at his own
whimsical humour. Another was vocalist and Latin scholar,
Fletcher Staples. Mel Brokenshire was known to his French and
Spanish pupils as "the happy warrior". Such an epithet equally
suited veteran John Nelson, who, with a twinkle, would leap from
his "trench" to the desk top and gun down the entire class to
everyone's delight. It was also in 1922 that the legendary James
T. Jenkins joined the staff. During the Great War he had
calibrated the first magnetic mine to be used by the British Navy
and was declared boxing champion of the Mediterranean fleet. In
the corridor, with geometric equipment under arm and yardstick
in hand, he was the guardian of the "bubbler". In the classroom
he became "the friendly philosopher", armed with an unlimited
repertoire of amusing anecdotes and expressions. He once
admonished the future Senator, David Walker, with the roar, "If I
took a smash at you, they would have to pick you off the wall with
a vacuum cleaner!"*13 On another occasion, upon discovering
Jack Sinclair asleep at the rear of his classroom, he abruptly
awakened the football punter by skipping down the aisle, singing,
"I'd like to walk along some flowery way,
In a suit of pink instead of sombre
Despite the calculated eccentricity of his discipline, studenG
respected and adored him. He was zesty, fair, funny and a great
Another memorable addition to the staff was a former
New York stage actor who became an assistant to Mr. Stock, the
chief custodian. At lunch hour many pupils used to hurry down to
the furnace room for a fascinating tea with "Amby" His actual
name is a mystery, but Miss Smithson claimed he deserved such
a pseudonym, "because he had either a lot of ambition or noneat
all." To the students his knowledge of Shakespeare and poetry
seemed infinite. "He could roll to bed with a verse of Byronand
rise with one of Wesley. "*15 Unfortunately, his greatest
performances were in the Jarvis furnace room rather than on the
New York stage. Consequently, the ailing actor frequently
lamented:
Oh! ever thus, from childhood's happy hour,
I've seen my fondest hope decay;
I've never loved a tree or flower,
But 'twas the first to fade away.
In The Collegiate Magnet of 1922 Beatrice Bryce (née
Menzies) paid the following tribute to him:
"AMBY," — L'ENVOI
Oh! I am sad to tears
My heart is wrapt in gloom;
For Jarvis halls are empty now
Of "The wielder of the broom.'
Again I see that figure dressed
In sweater red, and hectic tie,
Whose visored cap could ne'er conceal
The brilliant twinkling of his eye.
No knight was ever garbed as thou
To enter palace room;
I still can see those khaki jeans
O! "Wielder of the broom.'
O Amby! Thou hast left a place
Which no man hopes to fill
For thou wert like a man apart;
And in our hearts thou dwellest still.
104

While in the old school Mr. Jeffries hired as many women
as men. Among them were three former students, Helen St. John
and Honora Cochrane both of whom taught French, and Helen
Bryans who enlivened girls' physical education. The brilliant
Laura Smithson was appointed to the Classics Department in
1920. She became extremely popular for her mastery of
languages, empathy for students and infinite patience. Two years
later the junoesque Mabel Nesbitt was welcomed to the staff
along with Eleanor Sears, the school's first secretary. Ruth
Spence, a sister of former teacher, Winnie Spence, taught at
J.C.I. from 1915 to 1919 and then moved to Pretoria, South
Africa, where she initiated and developed that country's nursery
school movement. In 1976 The Ruth Arndt Early Learning
Centre, named in her honour, was opened as headquarters for
South Africa's pre-school educational system.
Although Mr. Jeffries nearly tripled the number of female
teachers, women continued to struggle in vain for equality. They
had been enfranchised in 1917 for their contribution to the war
effort, but two injustices still remained: married women were not
permitted to teach and the demand, equal pay for equal work,
went ignored.
The archway located on the second floor of 361 Jarvis Street was a
popular rendez-vous during "At Homes'
Photos: Walter Moorhouse.
105

BV 1921 it was obvious that the school building was
beyond repair. A beam supporting the leaky roof was splitting
and buttresses had to be placed under it. Even the inspector
complained, "The building itself is so old and so inadequate for
the present needs that I cannot assign to it any grading
whatever. "41? If the inspector was upset with the main building,
he must have been horrified with the condition of the girls'
gymnasium. He reported to the trustees that it was "positively
dangerous. When classes of girls are going through any rhythmic
movements, the building shakes from top to bottom." *18 No
longer could the Board renege on its perennial promise to
construct a new collegiate.
The proposed site for the new school was on the north
side of Bloor Street at the Jarvis Street intersection. It had been
purchased several years earlier and was regarded as an excellent
prospect because of its location and contours. A natural
amphitheatre at the property's north end could serve as a seating
area overlooking a playing field to be located in the valley. *19 The
Manufacturers' Life Insurance Company, however, also admired
the setting and sent a representative to the Board regarding the
possible sale of the site at a worthwhile profit. *20 In January,
1921, trustees finally approved a motion:
that the High School site on Bloor Street East be
sold, and that the proceeds be used towards a new
school for Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute. *21
That September Toronto City Council adopted a report
recommending that the estate known as Woodlawn on the
south-east corner of Jarvis and Wellesley Streets be purchased
from Thomas Long at a cost of $160,000.*22 Coincidently, Sheriff
Frederick William Jarvis, who had sold the previous school site
to the Board in 1871, had also owned Woodlawn prior to his
death. *23 The change in favour of the less attractive location did
have some compensation. The sale of the Bloor Street property
netted the Board a profit of $7 ,000 and the purchase of the corner
of Jarvis and Wellesley saved taxpayers a further $50,000. *24
Friday, September 29, 1922, ranks as one of the most
glorious days in the history of Jarvis Collegiate. At 3:30 p.m. on
the new school site 700 pupils, hundreds of alumni and guests
and the Band of the Royal Grenadiers gathered within and about
the enclosure to witness the laying of the cornerstone by Mrs.
Cockshutt, wife of the Lieutenant-Governor. In 1883 she had
graduated from the Toronto High School as Isabel Rolls, Winner
of the Governor-General's medal. Thirtynine years later, With
the aid of a silver trowel, she gracefully laid the cornerstone
containing a list of school trustees and daily papers on the northv
west corner of the present building. She then declared Mondaya
school holiday in honour of J.C.I.'s 115th anniversary. After the
appreciative scholars regained their composure, Principal
Jeffries sketched the school's history and the ceremony
concluded with the National Anthem, three cheers for Jarvis and
three more for the generous Mrs. Cockshutt.*25
1
•'Woodlawn", photographed here in 1900. was the residence of Sheriff
Frederick William Jarvis. It was located on the present school site. The
Board purchased it from a subsequent owner, Thomas Long. A marble
mantel and pair of mahogany doors from this home were used in the new
J.C.I. structure.
Courtesy: Jeffrey Jarvis.
That evening festivities shifted to the Crystal Room ofthe
King Edward Hotel for a lively dinner and dance described asthe
largest school reunion in Canadian
history. *26 Chairman and
timekeeper for the event was trustee and former mayor, Major
Bert Wemp, who rang the old school bell whenever a speakeran
beyond his five-minute limit. It was a ceremonious affair complete
with Major Wemp's toasts to "The King" and "Our Honored
Dead", and the Hon. Justice Lyman Duffs toast to "Our
106

School". Appropriate responses were made by James Ryrie, the
Hon. Justice Middleton, Sir Henry Drayton, Janie Thomas,
Lieut.-Col. A. Hunter, Lieut.-Col. R. Greer, Edith Groves and
Gilbert Robertson, all former pupils.
of
Corncr
rtf
—trcct (3110tihtte
griö.•tlt, 1922
3.30
Invitation to the Laying of the Cornerstone at the new
school site.
Laving of the Cornerstone Ceremony.
107

CO I,LEGIÅTE
( xycx-silurrr LAYS CORNERSTONE
At the Laying of the Corner-Stone for the Greater Jnrvi• Street
I
CORNERSTONE
to
Mrs. Isabel Cockshutt laid the cornerstone of the new
school on September 29. 1922.
Source: Mail and Empire, Sept. 29, 1922.
Scenes from the laying of the cornerstone as they appeared in The
Toronto Star Weekly. September 29, 1922.
108

/MH/ZWWWwww,wu.%WW/*/
Cornerstone in place.
Scenes from the laying of the cornerstone as they
appeared in The Toronto Telegram, September 29, 1922
TORONTO, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 1922. DkJ+...C
WILL SPEAK AT JARVIS STREET COLLEGIATE RE-UNION DINNER TO-NIGHT,
At the Jarvis Street Collegiate re.uninn din ner at the King
to.nigllt tho above pri'tnlv•ent ex-students
Left to right. they are—Jlon. Justice l)uff. (htnw:i; Middleton. lt.vrie, Ilon. Sic
tnance•, Jl. ll. t;rerr, A. llunter. and Trustee Mrs. Eolith 1,.(iroves.
G.. .V.I• .
Speakers for the reunion were: Hon. Justice Duff, Judge Middleton, James Ryrie, Hon. Sir Henry Drayton.
R.H. Greer, Col. A. Hunter, Mrs. E. Groves.
Source: The Toronto Star.
109

1.1Ä.l.411L 01.1)'1iÖvs
,I.VI) (.11UöS U ANE
11.
JANIE rsno.cø
TEV
Z. Cocxsuut
When speakers at the ex-pupils' reunion encroached upon the five minute time limit, a ringing
of the antique school bell served as a sufficient warning, as remarks ended abruptly.
Source: Toronto Daily Star.
110

3nrii• Street Cøllegintr 3n•titutr
ex-pgpils•
Kisc
The ex-pupils' reunion in 1922 was reputed to be
largest in Canadian
the
history.
The greatest ovation, as expected, was conferred upon
the forty-year veteran, Janie Thomas. Beginning with "Boys and
girls, for that is what you are to me and one to another . ' she
outlined the school's traditions and history before concluding,
"We learned to fear God and honor the King. These are the
things we pass on to the coming generation."
As the banquet ended, the dancing began. With the droll
wit and repartee of the speakers acting as a catalyst, the Crystal
Room resounded with jolly babble as faded memories and
friendships were renewed. But all too soon, Major Wemp shook
the old hand bell to end what had been a festive, jubilant and
proud day. *27
While construction progressed at 495 Jarvis Street,
activities flourished at the "old" school. A month after the laying
of the cornerstone students resurrected The Magnet in the form
of a quarterly newspaper. Its staff proved to be a very competent
group, as their eventual destinies suggest. The editor-in-chief,
Alex Edmison, was appointed Professor of Penal History at the
University of Ottawa and Assistant to the Principal of Queen's
University. He was also a member of Canada's first National
Parole Board and a recipient of the Order of Canada. The alumni
editor, Beatrice Bryce, became Dean of Women at Queen's
University. David Walker, the sports editor, served as Federal
Minister of Public Works before his appointment to the Senate.
Circulation manager, E. Levi is now a rabbi in Australia. Of the
associate editors, Harry Elliott is a science professor in the
United States, Dorothy Dew (née Wood) is associate editor of an
English trade journal, and David Steinhauer returned to Jarvis as
a language master before becoming an Assistant to the Deputy
Minister of Education.
The future Suffragan Bishop of Toronto, Rev. Harry
Hunt, became The Magnet's editor-in-chief the following year
and transformed it into the annual publication we know today.
Offering much assistance to the various Magnet editors was the
Camera Club, a small, but productive organization which began
in 1920. The source of its vigour and advice was classics master
Walter Moorhouse, who provided his keen members with
instruction in the newest techniques and gave them the
opportunity to work with modern equipment. One of the club's
first projects was the filming of football games, the results of
which were played back to a critical audience of both players and
photographers.
111

112
The new Collegiate would cost $640,000 and be described as
'education 's showplace"

3Jarui5 Cullrgtatr
THE PRINCIPAL'S TURN
Slr is i
MAKINO HISTORY
first
STAFF: JARVIS COLLEGIATE
•MAGNET'
Mass
Editor
JLo-2u:.. tbA
JARVIS CADET CORPS
MR. JEFFRIES' MESSAGE
l.upil.
Of
that
great
ib.• King
D•erd Eduvai "f
future
of ex•
i" larger
The Jarvis Collegiate Magnet published by the "Lit." in October, 1922,sold for five cents a
copy
113

114
Cadet corps Officers, 192324: Standing, left to right: R. J. Hough, D.A. Diamond, A.R.W. Uren, H.
Sniderman, M.B. Colleck, Seated: J. Gill, J. Jeffries, D. Walker, W. Moorhouse, B.C. Bond.

TRANSFER OF PUPILS TO NE
JARVIS ST. COLLEGIATE
Oid Sol snjJIed down in bis April glory when tho procession was
CoJlegiÅto to the new. Upper picture
started from
•bows pupil'
the old
torrnlug up to the
•th Cnion Jocks flying. Lower Jott scene
ot
children
the
filed into new
nnd
John
school.
Jeffries, Principnl,
whlie
and Miss Jane Thomas,
the
Who was u teacher
The formal openlt)g und
for
dedication Ot the
years
•chOOl take
itt
on Fridav•
Students form the procession in the top photo as they prepare to vacate 361 Jarvis Street. Mr.
Jeffries and Miss Thomas look on as girls march in on one side, boys on the other.
Source: The Toronto Globe, April 29, 1924
115

116
Mr. Jeffries and Miss Thomas led the march from the old to the new school as the boys
brought up the rear "in a long winding procession"
Courtesy: Toronto Board of Education Archives.

When the cadets held their annual banquet in the
assembly hall for the last time, it was noteworthy. But when the
corps was actually allowed to invite girls to the traditionally stag
dinner, it made headlines! Such was the situation in November,
1922. In a mood of cordiality David Walker even proposed a toast
to the Girls' Athletic Association. The old hall may have been
austere and dingy, but that evening, it had "a touch of class".
At the annual cadet inspection held in May, 1923, the
corps dipped its colors before the half-century-old schoolhouse
for the final time. The nostalgic mood, however, soon dissolved
at the annual field day and picnic held at High Park. Later, the
Girls' Athletic Association, having recovered from the cadets'
charm and chicken of the previous autumn, served a sumptuous
banquet. *28
The grand exodus from 361 Jarvis Street took place on
the bright Monday morning of April 28, 1924. To the beat of
drums the procession formed in front of the old school. When all
was ready the Union Jacks were raised and 800 pupils saluted
their aging, illustrious, empty schoolhouse with three boisterous
and affectionate cheers. Bandmaster Wilkinson then gave the
command, and The March, led by John Jeffries and Janie
Thomas, was under way. Mr. Jeffries recollected, "You should
have seen Miss Thomas with the old school bell, leading the
procession beside me up the street I felt very, very proud that
day." *29 Behind them came the bugle band followed by the girls
wearing white middies and red and blue scarves. "In a long
winding procession the boys brought up the rear."*30 The
teachers walked with their classes.
Despite the brevity of The March, "old boys and girls" still
remember it, some perhaps with more fondness than others.
Jack Sinclair admitted, "I couldn't understand why we had to
move." David Steinhauer didn't enjoy the outing at all, "I was
afraid of Jenkin's ruler." Miss Thomas claimed, "I could not get
up a scrap of sentiment." *31 But Alfie Phillips expressed the
emotions of the majority, "We were excited and proud to be
going to the new school."
When the procession arrived at its destination, Mr.
Jeffries and Miss Thomas took their stand on the central steps
while students streamed past, boys on one side, girls on the
other. As they entered the stately rotunda for the first time, it
must have been an awesome sight. It still is. Nevertheless, there
was no time to linger as everyone was instructed to continue up
the stairs and into the auditorium for an informal opening
exercise and a first look at the new, spacious assembly hall which
contained all the accessories of a modern theatre: two dressing
rooms backstage, a projection booth, prompter's gallery, flies
and footlights. Above, were twelve elegant chandeliers ornamented
with a monogram of "J.C.I. "*32
The brief ceremony began with the Lord's Prayer and a
reading of the Psalm, Make a Joyful Noise Unto the Lord. The
principal then commented, "I wish to thank you for the orderly
way in which you marched this morning. I have already heard
words of commendation on the way you conducted yourselves.
As the assembly concluded, students excitedly hurried off
to search for their new home rooms. The individual lockers were
opulent compared to the hooks in the old cloakroom, and the
"bubblers" were a certain source of temptation (the area had not
yet been declared "off limits"). When the room-numbering
system was finally deciphered, corridors emptied. Minutes later,
classes began at 495 Jarvis Street.
According to The Evening Telegram, the new school was
"spotless, speckless and germproof' *34 Other admirers described
it as "palatial", "education's showplace" and "the latest in
model school design". To the students it was well-nigh
pampering, as exemplified by the fourth floor library which was
decidedly "plush" with its alcoves, panelled ceiling and unique,
mahogany doors. The latter were eight feet high with stained,
leaded glass set in a frame of carved birch. The inclusion of these
valuable doors as well as a black, marble mantelpiece set over the
fireplace in the principal's office resulted from a special Board
request. Wishing to retain some tangible remembrance from the
original Woodlawn in the structure of the new school, the Board
approached the owner, Thomas Long, who consulted with
Edmund Jarvis and together they made the above choices. *35
Directly above the library on the fifth floor was "the
tower", an art room illuminated by a skylight. The adjacent room
contained an oven for casting. In the four science laboratories
each desk was supplied with gas, electricity and water outlets.
Taxpayers objected to the glass-covered conservatory with an
aquarium cut into the floor and a waterfall, but it delighted the
salamanders.
117

Guests arrive for commencement and the formal opening of the '•new school". on May 2, 1924.
Photo: Walter Moorhouse.
119

As for the days of undulating gymnasiums, they were
history. Students entering their new exercise room for the first
time, beheld a sturdy, stationary floor gleaming with polish. For
Alan Procter the sight was irresistible. With a joyful gallop he slid
across the gym to unofficially open physical education classes.
His satisfaction was nullified, however, with a "permanent"
detention (three weeks). *36 Encircling the gym from above was
an oval running track or spectator's gallery which was carpeted
in cork, and approached via a steel, spiral staircase. Below the
gym, work was continuing on the 50-foot swimming pool, the first
of its kind in the city.
The male and female dining areas in the basement were
separated by a huge kitchen walled with glazed bricks. Again the
Board was criticized for such lavishness, but trustees defended
the costly finish claiming that it would protect the walls from
steam and heat damage.
Elsewhere, the twenty-four spacious classrooms, the
Camera Club's darkroom, the Cadet Corps' armory, the whitetiled
washrooms and the large playing field were equally
overwhelming. *37
The new facilities necessitated the entire reorganization
of the school's operation. Scholars moved from class to class on
what was designated, the rotary system. Their timetables
included manual training in the "shop" and domestic science. In
his 1924 Magnet article, "The Temple", Joseph Gill concluded
his praise of the new collegiate with a lingering bitterness: "[The
building] represents a total expenditure of $500,000 and is the
result of two years' work and twenty years' waiting. 38
Shortly after the exit from the old school, the portables
were dismantled, and the structure was converted into a
Vocational Training School for Boys. It was demolished in 1928,
except for the addition on the east side. In time, that too
disappeared.
Today, Jarvis students stroll down to Allan Gardens and
share a co-ed lunch on the grass just south of St. Andrew's
Church oblivious to the fact that a century ago, their only
communication on that site would have been within the neutral
territory of the pump.
The 1923 Commencement and Formal Opening of the
new building took place on Friday, May 2, 1924. In the afternoon
nearly one thousand formally clad parents and friends gathered
in the auditorium for the overdue commencement. The major
speaker for the occasion was Rev. W.A. Cameron. His topic,
"The Place of Vision in the Making of Life", urged upon the
students the importance of judging the measure of a man by the
measure of his sight, and not following the tendency of the time
and using a financial yardstick or a social tape line. The world
honored a seer above all others, the speaker declared. It was vital
all should recognize the sacredness of their personality and of
their task. Because of that, it was the prime duty of scholars to
attend school, and it was as important for them to do that as for a
minister to attend to his ministerial duties. *39
The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the
new Optimus trophy by donor and trustee, John Wanless, to the
boy or girl "who, in the judgement of the staff, stands at the head
of the other pupils, not only in academic work, but also as a
leader in activity, in devotion and in moral influence on the other
students of the school." The recipient of the award was Magnet
editor-in-chief, Alex Edmison.
That evening, more than one thousand visitors filled the
auditorium and corridor for the opening of "the finest collegiate in
Canada" In his address Canon H.J. Cody told pupils, "You
are the heirs of a great inheritance and have a great tradition to
maintain. "41 He, along with Rev. Powell, then "formally dedicated
the new school to the interests of Canada and of
Not intended merely as an evening of ceremony and dry
speeches, the celebrations continued with an inspection of the
impressive facilities and a dance in the new gymnasium.
Two months after she had led the march to the new
school, forty-two years after she had first joined the staff, and fifty
years after she had first enrolled in the old school as a student,
Janie Thomas retired with no apparent emotion. Yet, she later
confessed to a reporter, "Last Monday, after I had handed in my
resignation I went up to my class to tell them. And when I looked
into their faces and thought of not seeing them every day I had my
first twinge."*43
Her ex-pupils have eulogized their legendary English
teacher with a variety of admirable descriptions, a few of which
are included below:
120

We admired her because she was a fighter.
M. Swartz
She looked stately even on her bicycle which she
rode back and forth.
J.A. Edmison
When she walked into the classroom, there was
immediate silence for her: a veritable Queen.
Senator D. Walker
She was a sort of Queen Victoria... She never told
me about the conflict [temporary move to Harbord]
and we were close friends. But she said once
that she nearly had to leave.
H. Cochrane
She had voice of rolling thunder . She never
spoke, she made pronouncements — deliberately
and emphatically
She was the army's strongest high school recruiting
agent ... With much patriotic zeal and proprietory
tone she would refer to "our boys" in the war effort,
as if it was her war and she expected you to win it
for her.
D. Steinhauer
On February 6, 1925, Miss Thomas was the guest of
honour at a Jarvis reunion held in the auditorium. A photograph
of the event shows her standing before her audience and her
portrait by Sir Edmund Wyly Grier, resting on the stage. Today
the painting is hung beside the entrance to the same hall. For
many years after her retirement Miss Thomas appeared at
school functions and tutored all those who asked for help.
From 1924 to 1930 the number of yearly graduates
increased from fifty-four to one hundred and twenty-nine and the
student population swelled to over 1,100. The number of
teachers, however, remained a constant thirty-four with few
changes. Harry Dyce joined the Science Department in 1924 and
was soon able to boast of superb departmental examination
results among his students. In 1929 Helen Bryans' departure
from the Girls' P.E. Department marked the arrival of Frances
Stinson, who continued the development of the program for
thirty-six years and was regarded as "the backbone of the
G.A.A. "*44 Another physical education teacher hired that year
was Ed Hill, the energetic fund-raiser, coach and Cadet Corps
instructor. Peter Muir completed the 1929 trio of newcomers,
quickly earning a reputation as an excellent, "gentle" master.
Portrait of Miss Janie Thomas by Sir Wvly Grier.
121

122
The retirement banquet for Miss Thomas was held in the new auditorium. Notice her portrait
on the stage and the chandeliers with the monogram, J.C.I.
Photo: Walter Moorhouse.

In 1925 and again in 1928 Mr. Jeffries demonstrated his
hiring skills by taking on shop teachers who were also competent
music and drama coaches. Mr. Carpenter joined the staff in 1925,
but was replaced three years later by Andrew Wilkie, a pianist,
who, for many years had accompanied the famed Scottish singer,
Sir Harry Lauder. Although both were paid to teach manual
training, most of their energy was given to directing drama and
conducting concerts.
The school orchestra begun by Miss O'Connell in 1920,
was comprised of fourteen musicians. Providing entertainment
at commencement and "little school dances", the ensemble was
unfortunately, short-lived. In 1922 Duncan Mackenzie of the
Board of Education came to the rescue, but after a few
performances at "Lit." meetings, the group was again disbanded.
In September, 1925, it was revived by Mr. Carpenter, and in the
spring of 1926 the seventeen-member ensemble held its first
concert. Performances were soon given at assemblies, dramas,
and church services. Interest in the orchestra, however, was
lacking, as music was not yet part of the curriculum, rehearsals
were held after school, and the "harmony" created by fourteen
violins, two cornets, a piano and a drum didn't encourage others
to join.
Nevertheless, when Mr. Carpenter was replaced by
Andrew Wilkie, progress was immediate. Within a year the little
Scot had bolstered the orchestra to twenty-nine members by
upgrading its repertoire with classical music. "Only the best was
performed, a most welcome relief from the prevailing jazz,"
claimed The Magnet. *46 By 1930 Mr. Wilkie had transformed the
annual school concert into a major event of the school year.
The Drama Club, which was also organized by Mr.
Carpenter in 1925, involved seventy-five students and was an
instant success. Its first performance, Our Boys, took place in
March, 1926. Using the profits incurred from subsequent
dramatizations, the enterprising Club purchased various props
for the school. The proceeds from Five Birds in a Cage, a short
comedy presented at an afternoon assembly, helped to pay for
stage curtains. With the profit from Fennel, the 1927 Christmas
play, a spotlight was purchased from the Uptown Theatre.
Previously latent and now emerging talents gave rise to bigger
productions. The first four-act play and evening performance, O
Rose O' Plymouth Town, was presented in February, 1927. The
satisfaction experienced by the players and the obvious success
of the ventures were the finest possible advertisements for
recruits. By the end of the year the Club's membership had
doubled to 150. From the following year until its demise as a
separate entity in 1933, the enthusiasm and activities of the
organization continued under Mr. Wilkie's guidance.
11
Drama Club Executive, 1929-30: left to right: D. Barber, W. Whitehouse.
J. Forsythe, E. Bell, J. Dowling, Mr. Wilkie. W. Copp, H. Mabus,
Mac" Macdonald, K. Houston. C. Lowes, W. Rice.
Courtesy: William Whitehouse.
The creation of a flourishing Drama Club can be credited
to its directors and its many excellent performances sponsored
by the "Lit." Ironically, however, the accomplishments and
acquired independence of both the Drama and Debating Clubs
spelled its doom. In 1925 its final meeting concluded sixty-one
years of performances, publications and promenades.
In 1924 the girls merged their Athletic Association,
Y.W.C.A. Club and Home and School Club into the R.O.A.D.
Club (Reading, Outdoor, Athletics and Dramatic), before
changing the name two years later to the Girls' Club. Some of its
activities included the September initiation ceremonies which
123

required all "first formers" to attend a masquerade dressed as
babies and promenade around the floor during the opening
number. A few months later senior girls took their adopted
freshettes on the Club's annual Big and Little Sister Hike.
Another highlight, the January sleigh ride through Rosedale
Ravine, was followed by refreshments and a sing-song led by Miss
St. John back at the school. Perhaps the Club's greatest
accomplishment of the decade was the first Girls' Physical
Education Demonstration held under Miss Bryans' direction in
1929. According to Dorothy Joel (née Wolfson):
About five hundred girls presented a display of
calisthenics, precision drills, and dancing, which
was widely accalimed then, and undoubtedly even
to-day would be considered an outstanding
spectacle. The thrill of that night and the song
which closed the evening will linger always.
Jarvis, now we proudly hail thee
In the springtime of our youth,
With a promise ne'er to fail thee
In the ways of right and truth.
We greet thee, O Jarvis,
For thee, we strive to win,
And the lustre won throughout long years
We shall never let grow dim.
We love thee, O Jarvis,
Jarvis, Alma Mater dear. *47
That September Miss Bryans was replaced by Miss Stinson who
directed the athletic display on a number of occasions until
1952.*48
The Poetry Club had a most promising beginning with
impressive speakers such as E.J. Pratt and Wilson MacDonald.
Within two years pupils were publishing their own lyrics in The
Caravan Book of Verse.
The Art Club, which was also initiated that year, held two
auspicious art and photography shows. It received an additional
thrust the following year from president Wally MacDonald,
whose cartoons subsequently enlivened The Evening Telegram.
Extra-curricular activity continued to flourish with the founding
of the Modern History Club in 1929. It was strengthened and
encouraged by Mr. Hutchison until his death in 1933, whereupon
Mr. Sheppard assumed his responsibilities.
The aging Cadet Corps under the direction of Walter
Moorhouse and Mel Brokenshire continued to thrive through.
out the 1920's. When upper school filled the first company in
1922, a second was begun for lower school. Soon the battalion
included 250 students, the biggest and best in Toronto. In the
opinion of Ed Heeney, "The greatest activity in the corps, was
trying to get one's uniform to fit." It must have disappointed
Jarvis cadets who had led the Victoria Day Parade and won the
Dominion of Canada Rifle Association Matches in 1930, to learn
three years later that the Board of Education had "temporarily
terminated" all high school corps. The organization was not
revived until 1941 after the fall of France.
Among the students of the Jeffries era who have attained
prominence in public life, are three optimus winners: Harry
Edmison (1928) is a director of Argus Corporation; Ed Heeney
(1929) is chairman of the board for the National Trust Company;
and John Munro (1934) is vice-president of Canada Life
Assurance Company. Other graduates who have entered
successful business careers include George Holmes, chairman of
the Manufacturers' Life Insurance Company; James Roberts,
former Deputy Minister of Trade and Commerce; Ken White,
president of the Royal Trust Company; and Robert Scrivener,
Bell Canada's past chairman of the board.
In two consecutive years (1931 and 1932) Jarvis
graduated two future ambassadors to the United Nations: Saul
Rae and George Ignatieff, the latter becoming president of the
U.N. Security Council. Other graduates achieved a degree of
fame in the entertainment field or in athletics. After gaining
recognition for his radio program Amateur Hour, Ken Soble
founded CHCH-TV.*49
To baseball buffs Harry Sniderman, the greatest pitcher in
Canadian history, was the innovator of the "drop" pitch. In 1932
Orle Duffey, a speed-skater, temporarily suspended his
academic studies to set four world records and win both Outdoor
and Indoor North American Speed-skating Championships for
boys under sixteen years of age. Shortly after his graduation Alfie
Phillips represented Canada at the 1928 and 1932 Olympics in
both platform and springboard diving. He later turned profes
sional and dived from ninety-six-foot towers into eight-foot
"bathtubs". Biting on his famous, mangled cigar, he recently
commented, "When you hit the water you were travelling 70
124

miles per hour. I did it hundreds of times and never got hurt .
But I cracked a kneecap playing for the Jarvis basketball team
and broke a wrist in my first football game." In 1971 he was
0M a-N*ls Of the
St CO*te
In Great wÜ Md
appointed to the Aquatic Hall of Fame for his nine consecutive
years as winner of the Canadian Diving Championships. Today
he is probably best known for his contribution to the
development of curling.
ern
ANIENS
CANOR.AI•
The panels commemorating the services of the veterans who returned from the battlefields of
World War I were unveiled on November 9, 1928.
Photo: Fallis Stafford.
125

Mural Decoration for Jarvis Collegiate
This photograph of artist George Reid who painted the auditorium murals was reversed by
The Toronto Star Weekly. Behind him is Leif Ericson's ship which symbolizes the discovery of
America.
126

Patriotism depicts the present. The canvas was painted in Mr. Reid's studio and then glued to
the auditorium wall.
Photo: Fallis Stafford.
127

128
Sacrifice, the other symbol of the present, was finished in the auditorium with the help of
cadets who acted as models.
Photo: Fallis Stafford.

Following a ceremony in the auditorium on October 13,
1927, Omond Solandt, the 1927 Optimus winner, presented a
new flagpole to trustee H. Kerr as part of Jarvis' double-diamond
jubilee celebrations. *50 Today, Dr. Solandt is still extremely
active as senior consultant for University of Toronto's Department
of Environmental Studies and as trustee for the International
Centre for Wheat and Rice. His previous appointments include
chairman of the Defence Research Board of Canada, vicepresident
of Canadian National Railways, and chancellor of the
University of Toronto.
The second and third sections of the war memorial, The
Chalice of Undying Light, which burns beneath the war memorial
tablet, and The Panels Commemorating the Services of Those
Who Came Back, were finally unveiled on November 9, 1928.*51
Work on the remaining item, the auditorium murals, was begun
in May of that year by George Reid who was assisted by a former
Jarvis student, Lorna Claire. The design, based on themes in
Canadian history, was initially completed on a scale model and
consisted of eleven panels arranged chronologically as follows:
Panel I—Ericson Discovering North America,
1000 A.D.
Panel 2—Groups of Discoverers from Eric the
Red to Columbus.
Panel 3—Groups of Discoverers from Cartier to
Hudson.
Panel 4—Cabot Erects a Cross in Nova Scotia,
1497.
Panel 5—Cartier Erects a Cross at Gaspé, 1534.
Panel 6—ChampIain Ascending the Ottawa, 1615.
Panel 7—Founding of Hudson's Bay Co., 1668.
Panel 8-—The U.E. Loyalists Ascending the St.
Lawrence, 1784.
Panel 9—Mackenzie Discovers the Pacific, 1793.
Panel 10—Patriotism.
Panel I I—Sacrifice. *52
Mr. Reid painted panels 10 and 11, Patriotism and
Sacrifice in his studio, although "the canvas was so large, that
while one end hung on the top of the wall, the other lay on the
floor." Once completed, it was "rolled from the bottom up, tied
and taken to the school. There it was glued to the wall and then
finished . .. to harmonize with the colour of the auditorium *53
Student participation was evident in the completion of the panels
as Reid used cadets dressed in uniform as models. In Patriotism
Gordon Blackford bore the Union Jack and Ed Heeney held the
Canadian ensign. For Sacrifice Henry Litowitz posed with the
Union Jack while Herman Hass clutched the ensign. *54 Ed
Heeney reflected, "It was done after school. Mrs. Reid kept
pouring us tea. We were there three or four times and stood for
about fifteen minutes."
In a simple, solemn ceremony panels 10 and Il depicting
the present were unveiled to a proud assembly. At the conclusion
of the service "all faced west as The Last Post was sounded, and
turning to the east, listened to the hopeful strains of Reveille. "*55
Finally, in July, 1929, Mr. and Mrs. Reid held a tea in the
auditorium to display all eleven murals for the first time. It must
have been a grand affair, judging from newspaper reports. "A
buffet table decked in copper bowls and candelabra and massed
with 'mums added still more beauty to the great auditorium.
Despite its hidden location under the balcony, Champlain
Ascending the Ottawa, received the most praise. *57 The artist
explained, "I reproduced a scene which had impressed me at the
tercentenary of Quebec's founding, where I saw a flotilla of
canoes, paddled by Indians, coming down the Richelieu. 58
The autograph by George Forbes shows the time and
talent given to autograph books in the 1920's.
Courtesy: Lorraine Blackford.
129

Jarvis Collegiate Institute Staff, 1934: 4th row, left to right: J. Shea, E. Hill, H. St. John, L. Smithson, H. Dyce,
W. Bowman, 3rd row: M. McCamus, R. Ratz, E. Sears, S. McRobert, M. Nesbitt, H. Cochrane, H. Durie, M
O'Connell, J. McKellar, S. Holmes, W. Moorhouse, 2nd. row: F. Stinson, A. Allin, H. Tapscott, C.L. Barnes,
J. Jeffries, E. Hardy, J. Jenkins, H. Sheppard, P. Muir, C. Booth, 1st. row: L. McKerracher, D. Blatchford,
M. Brokenshire, D. Steinhauer, J. Nelson, F. Staples, C.H. Barnes, M. Rae, G. Allen.
130

For the pupils of that era the decorations were a source of
great pride. *59 But in time their significance faded and
newcomers found them a useful source of humour during dull
assemblies. Following a fire in 1968 the titles Patriotism and
Sacrifice were reversed, the error remaining unnoticed until it
was spotted in 1975 by a visiting graduate. While today's scholars
disregard the work of George Reid, the "old boys and old girls"
who remember the memorial's significance and the struggle to
pay for it, continue to inquire after the murals in the auditorium.
As the "roaring twenties" passed into history, Canadians
experienced the frustration and helplessness of the Great
Depression. Although the Royal York Hotel had opened in '29, it
was assumed that the crash would prevent Toronto from ever
seeing another skyscraper. In November, 1931, Major Conn
Smythe defied economics by opening Maple Leaf Gardens. As if
to celebrate the occasion, his Toronto Maple Leaf Hockey Club
won its first Stanley Cup that season with the aid of another ex-
Jarvisite, Harold Cotton.
The school population increased during the Depression,
because the diploma was regarded as a possible cure for
unemployment. The rising enrolment, however, did not create
new teaching jobs. Of the 1,000 graduates who received teaching
certificates in 1932 and 1933, only twenty managed to obtain
contracts.
Two noteworthy retirements at Jarvis in 1930, were those
of William Jennings and Fred Bartlett. The latter resigned as
coach and P.E. instructor to continue his career at the University
of Toronto. Mr. Jennings became an inspector for the
Department of Education.
Finding competent replacements posed no problem for
Mr. Jeffries. From an over-abundance of talented, available
teachers he selected the elite. The first was English master
Charles Booth who would write the words for a new school song
as a farewell gesture in 1937. He was followed by the popular
perfectionist, Sarah McRobert, who joined the Mathematics
Department in 1931 for the first of her thirty-four years at Jarvis.
With her came a geographer and the hero of the Hamilton Tiger
Cats, Web Bowman. Gerry Allen, described as "Mr. Memory",
was hired the following year along with a former student and
retired diamond-cutter, David Steinhauer. Other teachers who
signed contracts prior to Mr. Jeffries' retirement were Stan
Ferguson, Sydney Holmes and Harold Sheppard.
At 8:30 p.m. in the spring of 1930, radio station CFCA
presented the musical talents of Jarvis Collegiate. Vocal
numbers by Fletcher Staples and Saul Rae were interspersed
with piano solos by Marguerite Lasserre and Marguerite Landell.
Mr. Jeffries outlined the plans of the War Memorial Committee
and William Peroff ended the program with a performance of The
Gypsy Serenade on his violin. Critics agreed that director "Mac"
McKerracher ran a slick 30-minute production which concluded
with "fifteen seconds to spare". *60
For those who assumed that the broadcast would be the
highlight of 1930, a brief fad unknowingly was about to create
even more furor. In May a group of boys in one class decided to
purchase identical, gaudy, wide ties, and in a matter of days, form
ties became popular apparel. Trouble soon erupted when a boy
was isolated from his allies and promptly pinned to the wall.
Thereupon followed the inevitable sequence of events — the tie
was snipped off, the boy was embarrassed, and the form was
disgraced. Thus pencil cases concealing scissors soon earned as
much respect as a gangster's violin case, and the principal was
outraged! At the next weekly senior assembly he announced,
"Any boy wearing these silly ties, starting in the morning will be
sent home. "*61 The following day fifteen boys who had defied the
edict complied with the punishment and received two detentions
for every period they missed. Superficially the fad appeared to
end a few days after it had begun. Yet to occur, however, was
what might be considered the most memorable prank ever
played upon a principal.
On Monday, May 21st word spread that a funeral for "the
principal's sense of humor" would take place during Tuesday's
lunch period in Allan Gardens. At the appointed hour more than
300 "mourners" wearing black ties and armbands assembled at
the old school site. The offending finery was deposited into a
"coffin" (née packing case), while Burton Doherty, a pastor's son
and future minister, officiated. In clerical guise, assumed by
turning collar and vest back to front, Doherty began his oration:
"Friends and brethren, let us now in all trust and sincerity,
cremate our evil desires in this, the funeral pyre, prepared for our
131

132
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seemingly senseless and certainly noisy Jarvisites
meandered aimlessly along Bloor Street. Occasionally
they formed a snake-dance— to the utter
bewilderment and annoyance of all rational persons
in the vicinity. By a succession of snake-dances,
huddles and unsuccessful attempts at singing, the
band reached Bloor and Yonge. Here was staged a
last attempt to amuse an all too serious city. A large
huddle was formed on the corner, completely
blocking pedestrian traffic. Above the customary
racket was heard a mighty "High Sky Rickety
Junior Football Champions, 1930:Third row, left to right: Ed. Russell, Art Upper, Aubrey Gray, Keith Landell, Peter Simpson,
Don Scott. Second Row: Mr. Shea, Jack Troster, Norm Hamill, Gord Smith, Bud Auburn, Bernie Taylor, John Grant, Bill
Ruddock, Mr. Bartlett. First row•. ' 'Snooky" Rubinstein, Bob Barron, Bob Saunders, Brian Wood, Ron Darbyshire, Doug Brick,
John Munro, Roy Saxon.
Courtesy: Ron Darbyshire.
133

One week later the Senior Soccer Team captured
another city championship, this time at Ulster Stadium with a
frenzied 4-2 victory over Oakwood in the second overtime
period.
Both the Senior Hockey Team and the Girls' Swim Team
won city championships the following year, but when the senior
boys entered the Prep School League in 1932 with only mild
success, the Junior Team upheld Jarvis' reputation by winning
the T.S.S.A.A. title.
The arrival of coach Web Bowman that year foreshadowed
the imminent rise of J.C.I. football supremacy. The
Seniors' loss to Malvern by one point in the 1931 finals was
reversed on a cold, rainy November 15, 1932, when both the
Junior and Senior Rugby Teams went to Varsity Stadium for the
T.S.S.A.A. championships. The Juniors, led by Doug MacPherson
and coached by Mr. Shea, climaxed an undefeated season by
toppling North Toronto 21-1.*66 In the Senior game Jarvis was
considered the underdog. But, as students bought bags of hot
peanuts to warm their hands, the future Argo, John Munro,
helped boot the "Redmen" to an 8-4 win over Parkdale. *67
In 1933 Jarvis was afflicted with a stretch of bad luck.
Although the Juniors humiliated Humberside 4826 in the
T.S.S.A.A. basketball final, the championship was disallowed
due to "a slight infraction of the rules". *68 Nor was there joy at
Jarvis in November when the defending Junior and Senior
Football champions found themselves out of the playoffs.
Mary Cooper's comments convey the depths of student
morale:
Another day I remember particularly was the
day after the final Rugby game. Jarvis lost both
championships that year and we had a Rugby
funeral which was as sad as the year before had
been happy — with a cavalcade of cars around the
block, and the burial of the Rugby ball in the
schoolyard. I wonder if it is still there, or if and when
they were digging the foundations for the new
section, they dug up the ball carefully packed in a
box
*69
In 1934, after seven years as an English teacher and
twenty as principal, John Jeffries retired. In the classroom he had
been a strict disciplinarian who "tempered justice with met.
"*70 As a principal he was authoritative and crisp.
cy.
180T — 1934
THE OLD GRAMMAR SCHOOL
to Celebrate it' 127th Anniversary wit}'
Big Reunion Dinner and Dance
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faithfully. voo similar was when
Come to the Reunion Dinner and Dmce
Wednesday, May 23rd, 7.30 p.m.
John Jeffries was honoured upon his retirement at an alumni reunion in
May, 1934.
134

In response to Muriel Beaton's request to outline his
proudest moments at J.C.I., he reminisced:
Well, one was the day we marched from the
old school to the new. Another, when the murals of
our war memorial were completed. In 1917, six
pupils won scholarships. I was very proud of them;
1922 was also an outstanding scholarship year. In
1932, five of our pupils won ten scholarships, and
we won three city championships — the Senior and
Junior rugby and the Junior hockey. I think those
were the times when I had reason to be proud of
Jarvis. *71
In May the Jarvis Alumni Association honoured him at a
testimonial banquet. He subsequently enjoyed a long retirement
and lived to the age of 99.
I Lorraine Blackford (née Harvey).
2 Minutes, Toronto Board of Education (Aug. 27, 1914).
3 Beaton, Muriel, "Mr. J. Jeffries Retiring Says .. The Magnet (1934).
4 Ylinen, A., and Ashmore, S. , "Wartime in the Old School," The Magnet
(1944).
5 In 1918, thirty-six pupils successfully passed their year on the basis of farm
ernployment and enlistment.
6 Capon, A.R., op. cit.
7 J. Alex Edmison.
8 The Magnet (1924).
9 Year-Book, 1917-1918 (Commencement programme, Dec., 1918).
10 Agnes Diltz.
11 Although the tablet, which is now located in the rotunda, lists seventy-three
ex-pupils, the number of men who died was actually seventy-seven.
12 The original G.A.A. was founded in September, 1897.
13 Senator David Walker.
14 Dr. Jack Sinclair.
15 The Magnet (1929).
16 J. Alex Edmison. The quotation is from Thomas Moore's Lalla Rookh.
17 High School Inspector's Annual Report for the School Year 1921-1922.
Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute.
18 High School Inspector's Annual Report for the School Year 1920-1921.
Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute.
19 Douglas Carscallen.
20 Minutes, Property Management Committee, Toronto Board of Education,
(1919-1922) (Oct. 9, 1919).
21 Minutes, Property Management Committee, Toronto Board of Education,
(1919-1922) (Jan. 27, 1921).
22 Minutes, Toronto City Council (Sept. 21, 1921).
23 Jeffrey Jarvis.
24 Figures are approximate. Minutes, Property Management Committee,
Toronto Board of Education (Sept. 9, 1920; Jan. 21, 1921; Jan. 27, 1921).
25 "Corner-stone of New Jarvis is Truly Laid," The Globe (Sept. 30, 1922).
26 "Answer Call of 'Old Jarvis'," The Toronto Telegram (Sept. 25, 1922).
27 "Jarvis School's Ex-Pupils Exchange Droll Incidents of Days of Brass Hand
Bell," The Globe (Sept. 30, 1922).
"Jarvis Collegiate Corner-stone Laid," The Mail and Empire (Sept. 30,
1922).
"Jarvis Ex-Pupils Hold Big Reunion," The Mail and Empire (Sept. 30, 1922).
"Golden Night for Jarvis Boys and Girls," The Evening Telegram (Sept. 30,
1922).
"Recalled 'Rare Old Days'," The Evening Telegram (Sept. 30, 1922).
28 "Dip Colors to Old School as Crack Cadets March Past," The Globe (May
19, 1923).
29 "Mr. J. Jeffries says 'Young People of Today Are Fine Indeed'," The Magnet
(1934).
30 "Occupy New Jarvis C.I., " The Toronto Telegram (Apr. 28, 1924).
31 "Fifty Years in One School, Forty-two Years as Teacher," The Toronto
Telegram (May 12, 1924).
32 "Occupy New Jarvis C.I., " op. cit.
33 "Can Serve as Many Meals as a Do.vntown Hotel," The Toronto Telegram
(Apr. 25, 1924).
34 "Can Serve as Many Meals as a Downtown Hotel," op. cit.
35 Jeffrey Jarvis.
36 Lorna Procter.
37 "Can Serve as Many Meals .. .," The Toronto Telegram, op. cit.
38 Gill Joseph, C' The Temple," The Magnet (1924). Actual cost was $640,000.
39 "Jarvis Commencement Held in New Building," Toronto Mail (May 3,
1924).
135

40 "Throngs at Opening of Jarvis Collegiate," Toronto Mail (May 3, 1924).
41 Ibid.
42 "Prizes, Scholarships Presented at Jarvis," The Toronto Telegram (May 3,
1924).
43 "Fifty Years in One School, Forty-two Years as a Teacher," The Toronto
Telegram (May 12, 1924).
44 Douglas Carscallen.
45 Ibid.
46 The Magnet (1930).
47 The Magnet (1957).
48 Girls' P.E. Demonstrations were probably held in 1931, 1933, 1935, 1936,
1940, 1946 and 1952.
49 Letter, Frank P. DeNardis.
50 "Double-diamond Jubilee and Pupils of Jarvis Collegiate Give School Board
Flagpole," The Toronto Telegram (Oct. 13, 1927).
51 "Unveiling of Tablets and Brazier," The Magnet (1929).
52 McCombie, Alen, "Concerning Our Murals," The Magnet (1940).
53 Gang, Israel, "An Interview With the Artist", The Magnet (1930).
54 Ed Heeney and Gordon Blackford.
55 "The Memorial Service," The Magnet (1930).
56 "Mural Decorations Transform Jarvis Hall," The Toronto Telegram (July
12, 1929).
57 Ibid.
58 Gang, Israel, op. cit.
59 Miss H. Cochrane and David Steinhauer.
60 The Magnet (1930). and Marguerite Pearson (née Landell).
61 "Principal's 'Sense of Humor' Cremated in Mock Funeral," The Globe (May
21, 1930).
op. cit.
62 "Principal's'Sense of Humor' Cremated
op. cit.
63 "Principal's'Sense of Humor' Cremated
64 The Magnet (1931).
65 Ibid.
66 Mary Cooper (née Woollard), The Magnet (1957).
67 Ibid.
68 The Magnet (1933).
69 Cooper, Mary, op. cit. There is no record of the football having
70 Senator David Walker.
71 Beaton, Muriel, "Mr. J. Jeffries Retiring op. cit.
136

CHAPTER 12
The pre-war years from 1934 to 1939 under the
principalship of Fred Clarke have been described by a Magnet
editor as "The Great Depression of
During this time some of the most renowned masters
chose to retire. When the highly respected Magnet adviser and
classics teacher Laura Smithson, announced her plans to resign
and marry in 1935, Dr. William Feasby paid her the following
tribute:
It was as a person that Laura Smithson had her
greatest influence upon me; the quiet and beautiful
modulation of her speech; the easy assurance of
excellent English prose (based on a solid classical
foundation); the perfect grooming and simplicity of
dress; the prominent glance of brilliant eyes; the
flashing rapier wit; the quick and widespread blush
all of these were revealed to us in our daily
contacts in the classroom.
[She] taught us to read and love Latin, to use
English with the same precision as she did, to laugh,
to know friendship, to think, to be sad and to
wonder . *2
One year later four more esteemed Jarvis masters, all of
whom had taught at 361 Jarvis Street, bid adieu to the Collegiate.
Both C.H. "Math" Barnes and Dr. Hardy retired after twenty-six
years of service, while Harold Tapscott joined them after
teaching modern languages for twenty-four years. The fourth
member of the quartet, John McKellar, transferred to Lawrence
Park Collegiate where he later became principal. After teaching
modern languages for eighteen years, Helen St. John retired in
1937 and was succeeded by her sister, Katherine, who is best
remembered for the musical chorus of French verbs which
filtered from her classroom almost daily. Other newcomers
included four keen and able scholars: classics master James
Cook (1936), the English Department's Stanley Ferguson (1937),
home economics teacher Edith Cosens (1938) and French
instructress Dorothy Elliott (1938).
During the Clarke era there was little variation in the
number of staff, students and graduates. Each year at
commencement thirty-five teachers applauded as approximately
120 of the 800 pupils received their grade 13 diplomas.
In 1934 the Senior Rugby Team upheld Minerva's
reputation by defeating Northern Vocational 10-7 on a muckmired
field to win the T.S.S.A.A. championship. An optimistic
future seemed assured after the Bantam Basketball Team
retained its city title a few months later. In 1936. however,
disaster struck boys' athletics. A dispute with the "main office"
caused ten football players to transfer to the rival Northern. By
1938 J.C.I. did not even have a Senior Rugby Team, and the
school's reputation as a leader in athletics was only partially
rescued that year by the bantam football squad which won the
T.S.S.A.A. championship, thanks to the leadership of cocaptains
Sandy Gall and Russ Upper.
Nor did the boys fare well in comparison to the girls who
were under the competitive, enthusiastic direction of Miss
Stinson. Although boys were first presented Honour-J pins in
1937, the custom had been introduced by the ladies two years
earlier. When the boys triumphantly earned ninety-six Royal Life
Saving Awards, their colleagues won ninety-seven. *3
Despite the lack of intercollegiate competition since 1932,
Jarvis girls managed to help rejuvenate the faltering school
spirit. In 1935 they retained the Cochrane Cup for the second
successive year, a feat which has never been accomplished by
any other high school. The trophy was presented annually to the
Ontario organization obtaining the greatest number of Royal
Life-Saving Society awards.
In 1936 the Boys' Club and Girls' Association amalgamated
to form the first Jarvis Student Association (Council) with the
following executive:
President - Stanley Landell
Vice-Presidents - Dorothy Shaw, John McKnight
Secretary - Marguerite Bricker
Treasurers - Barbara Ager, Barrie Lorimer
Social Conveners - Marian Landell, M. Phair
Athletics - Margaret Church, Bill Staples
137

Admitting that the rapport between the sexes was far
from ideal, Stan Landell stated bluntly, "We were still chauvinistic
as I remember."
In a similar spirit of co-operation, the boys of the Public
Speaking Club voted unanimously to admit girls of forms Ill, IV
and V to both its organization and executive. The effect of this
amendment upon the interest and attendance at meetings was
rumoured to be "substantial". Other extra-curricular activities
included monthly gatherings of the twenty-one-member Stamp
Club, and a variety of functions sponsored by the Modern
History Club. Its drama section performed a Girls' Revue in 1935
and produced several plays the following year including The
Trysting Place and Tons of Money.
Throughout the '30's, the "At Home" continued to be a
major annual event. One of the most successful occurred in 1939
in the auditorium under a canopy of 1,000 balloons. More than
200 guests enjoyed the music of The Modernaires and frequently
referred to a huge dance card and thermometer which indicated
intermissions, spot dances, lemon dances and elimination
dances. Another special attraction that evening was Mr.
McKerracher's gliding interpretation of The Lambeth Walk.
Musical as well as social activities continued to thrive
during the pre-war years thanks to Mr. Wilkie's vitality and
several other very talented musicians. When the Ontario
Secondary School Orchestra was formed in 1935, it included five
Jarvisites, the largest representation from any single school in
the province. The Glee Club, which had expanded its
membership to thirty-five, proudly displayed its new uniforms at
several Toronto concerts in 1939. In the area of musical theatre,
Jackie Rae fondly recalls The Jarvis Follies, a revue written and
performed by the students, which ran for several nights. Rae
subsequently produced the Wayne and Shuster television
comedy for ten years, and headlined his own television variety
show. Yet he still views The Follies with pride: "We wrote songs
and sketches which were energetic, inventive and great for
confidence. "
The graduation classes of 1939 and 1940 included two of
the most brilliant pupils ever to be educated at Jarvis Collegiate.
Both won Prince of Wales scholarships and both were offspring
of the popular mathematics master, Dr. Jenkins. Marion
Jenkins, now Mrs. Seretis and vice-principal of Bishop Strachan
School, candidly remarked, "I still use [father's] jokes in the
classroom, but slightly recycled." Her brother, James Jenkins
Jr., graduated in 1940 with a 98.6 per cent average on fourteen
examinations, eight of which were perfect papers. Today he is
professor of mathematics at Washington University in St
Louis.
Fred Clarke, who served as principal from 1934 to 1939 sits for his
portrait by Adrian Dingle.
Courtesy: Sadie McRobert.
Enthusiasm for many extra-curricular activities began to
wane in 1935 with the disappearance of the Senior Basketball
Team. At Parents' Night the following February, music and
speeches were heard in the auditorium; but the gymnasium, pool
and laboratories remained closed. In 1937 there was neither a
Senior Rugby Team nor a male cheerleading squad, and in 1938
there was no Magnet. For many, school spirit was at a low ebb.ii
138

After serving as a French and German master from 1904
to 1909 and as principal from 1934to 1939, Mr. Clarke retired. To
his credit, high academic standards were maintained during the
pre-war era and, with the assistance of the newly established
Student Association, communication between pupils and staff
was considerably improved.
1 The Magnet (1935, 1937).
2 The Magnet (1957).
3 The Magnet (1937).
4 Marion Seretis.
5 Gerry Allen.
Annual Cadet Inspection.
Photo: Douglas Carscallen.
139

CHAPTER 13
In September, 1939, the appointment of Arthur Allin to
the principalship was abruptly followed by the outbreak of World
War Il. Once again pupils had to develop the fine art of packing
ditty bags as parents adjusted to ration coupons for meat, sugar
and gasoline. With the attack on Pearl Harbour in 1941 and the
slaughter of 3,500 Canadians at Dieppe in 1942, morale on the
"home front" plummeted sharply. Nevertheless, the many
projects of the Jarvis War Service Council left students ' time
to languish. In fact, the organization's accomplishments were a
source of self-confidence, camaraderie and happiness for
everyone. An additional boost to school morale came with the
resurgence of extra-curricular activities: basketball returned
after a four-year absence, the cadet corps resumed where it had
left off eight years earlier, and the girls put on a successful
physical education demonstration which proved to be the final
appearance for the seemingly eternal middies (they were retired
the following year in favour of blue gym suits). Another source of
jubilation that year was The Magnet, winner of the Star Shield for
the second time as "the finest Ontario school publication
The 1940's also brought an increase in both school
services and programs. Miss Stiver became the first school nurse
in 1942, comforting ailing students in the "sick room". A year
later, Mr. Cook introduced the Guidance Department. Band
music, under the direction of Jack Overholt, became a part of the
first form curriculum in 1949.
The greatest accomplishment in the field of education
during the decade was the emancipation of female teachers. With
the declaration of war and the consequent loss of male masters,
married women were called upon to fill the vacancies. As a result,
Mrs. Margaret Allan joined the Mathematics Department in 1943
to become the first married woman ever to teach in Jarvis
Mrs. Gladys Patch was welcomed to the English D epart.
ment. All restrictions on the hiring of married women
were lifted in 1947, allowing them to concentrate on the one
remaining disparity — salary! In the opinion of Charles Gulston
president of the Toronto Secondary School Teachers' Federal
tion, "Equal pay for equal work means the dissolution
Despite the imaginary menace to of the
marriage system. "*2
matri.
mony, women teachers won their seventy-five year struggle to
obtain equal pay for equal work in 1949.
The lady on the right who is demonstrating the new gym suit on the
Collegiate. Her tenure, however , was short • lived and she school roof is the future principal, Ann Shilton.
resigned the following year only a few months before Photo: Walter Moorhouse.

Arthur Allin came to Jarvis as a science teacher in 1913 and quickly
gained a reputation as a superb master and chalk hurler. He served as
principal from 1939 to 1950.
Photo: Walter Moorhouse.
After teaching physics and biology from 1913 to 1939,
Arthur Allin, who reputedly solved all problems to the
satisfaction of both staff and students, was appointed principal.
Ed Hill considered him to be "the finest principal that anyone
could ever hope to have." Gerry Allen asserted, "The staff and
students worshipped him." Harold Daufman remembers him
best as a teacher: "Mr. 'Cutie' Allin fired pieces of chalk at noisy
students with either arm while he still faced the blackboard, and
never missed any of his intended targets."
For the new principal staffing presented an annual
quandary, beginning in 1940 when three veteran masters bid
farewell to Minerva. C.L. Barnes, whose Latin classes usually
"began calmly", retired after twenty-seven years of instruction at
J.C.I. Douglas Blatchford moved to Parkdale after eighteen
years of service. Dr. Charles Booth was posted temporarily to
Lawrence Park Collegiate en route to his appointment as Deputy
Minister of Education. Marguerite "Biddy" O'Connell, who
joined the staff in 1911, withstood considerable abuse from her
French classes before retiring in 1942. On several occasions she
was locked out of her classroom on to the rotunda balcony by
students who wished to change into their gym suits in
preparation for the next class. One of the culprits, Ann Shilton,
admitted in retrospect "1 regret it now." Syd Holmes, who
devoted many of his eleven years to The Magnet, was promoted
to Lawrence Park in 1943. Thirty-two years of stimulating English
classes ended in 1945 for the aristocratic Helen Durie. After the
death of her only brother in World War I, students recall her
stubborn refusal to speak to any pupil who studied German. In
1946 the flamboyant Scot and impatient shop instructor, Andrew
Wilkie, retired after eighteen years of dedication to the
development of the school's Glee Club and Orchestra. The
retirements of Honora Cochrane and Marion McCamus that
year were both due to ill health. The former was a 1914 graduate
who returned to teach French and art in 1923 while the latter was
a teacher of science and geography who also sponsored the
Stamp Club. Each of the next three years brought forth the
departure of a master who had participated in The March from
361 Jarvis Street. The first was David Steinhauer, a 1927
graduate who taught modern languages for fifteen years prior to
his promotion to Oakwood. The next year the popular master of
classics, Magnet adviser and founder of the Camera Club,
Walter Moorhouse, retired following twenty-nine years of
141

instruction. Mabel Nesbitt, known to her students as a strict
perfectionist, concluded her twenty-seven years of English and
Latin classes in 1949.
New staff members included English masters John
Coombs (1940), Louise Griffith (1945) and orchestra conductor
Ted Stubbs (1945). Mr. Allin demonstrated his ability to find
promising candidates by hiring three future vice-principals in
three consecutive years, beginning in 1944; they were physics
scholar Campbell Strachan, mathematics medallist William
Darbyshire and the casual chemist, Douglas Carscallen. Five
other teachers to join the staff in 1946 were the popular Graham
Warren (P.H.E.), Ward Gordon, the first full-time librarian;
Arthur Gilbert, the last shop instructor; and the idolized Jack
Overholt, who transformed the Glee Club into one of the most
active organizations in the school's history. In 1947 J.C.I.
welcomed geographer and coach, Clarence "Moose" McNair
and Genevieve Logan, a lively historian who compiled a history of
Jarvis Collegiate for the school's 150th anniversary.
Shortly after the outbreak of World War Il the History
Club began compiling names and addresses of Jarvisites who
had enlisted in the armed forces. It soon became apparent that a
more extensive organization involving the entire student body
was required, if Jarvis Collegiate was to aid its enlisted alumni
adequately. To fulfill this need the War Service Council was
formed under the direction of Mr. Muir in January, 1941. It
consisted of a boy and a girl from each form who attended bimonthly
meetings in the science lab. The Council was divided
into four committees:
(I) The History Club, directed by Mr. Sheppard, was
responsible for maintaining a current list of names and addresses
of all "old boys" who had enlisted;
(2) The Ways and Means Committee was given a
mandate to raise sufficient money to pay for all proposed gifts
and ditty bag supplies;
(3) The Knitting and Supplies Committee provided
enough wool to keep most girls busy even during winter and
summer vacations;
(4) The Contact and Distribution Committee packed
and mailed all parcels.
As the war progressed the History Club's task of keeping
up with new enlistments and new addresses became formidable
Each year 200 names were added to the list of alumni in uniform
until the war ended in 1945, by which time more than 1000
Jarvisites had joined the armed forces.
In 1944 students collected 8,000 baskets to earn $50.00 for the War
Service Council.
Photo: Walter Moorhouse.
Under the persuasive, enthusiastic leadership of Ed Hill,
the Ways and Means Committee proceeded to raise money with
the polish of an entrepreneur. Special levies and weekly nickel
days insured a regular income which was periodically augmented
by ticket sales to tea dances, movies, open houses and basketball
games. One form discovered that there was remuneration in tea
sales. Another cajoled its form master, Miss St. John, into buying
two school rings which then became the object of a lucrative
lottery. An entertaining and profitable contest was won by
Richard Brien, who identified the most J.C.I. veterans in a
composite photograph. *3 Continually devising new projects, the
Committee organized the first salvage drive which required
142

much effort for little profit. Ed Hill recalled, "Everyone brought in
fruit baskets, coat hangers, potato sacks, newspapers, magazines,
bottles, etc etc. We accumulated thousands of wire
hangers and filled walls with baskets . In two months we had
collected $100.00." In 1944 over seven tons of paper were
amassed and sold for a mere $15.00. A fierce interform basketcollection
competition was highlighted with a battle between 2-C
and 2-D. When the final tally was completed, 2-D was declared
the victor by a "score" of 1,256 to 1,246. In total the school
gathered 8,000 baskets to earn $50.00.
Barbara Burns (née Shield) remembered another inter.
form competition in which each class prepared a skit. The
winning presentations were performed at the well-attended
Jan.'is Varieties of 1943.
In order to complete casting for a skit in the Jarvis Varieties of 1943, an all-girl form had to conscript its form master, Mr. Cook to
play the hero's role.
Courtesy: Barbara Burns.
143

One particular fund-raising escapade which surpassed
all others, rose from the ovens of Weston's Bakery, engulfed
the City of Toronto and went down in history as The Great
Doughnut Drive of 1942. In one autumn day Jarvisites sold and
distributed 5,880 dozen doughnuts amid organized chaos
earning $460.00 for the War Service Council. Miss Cochrane
immortalized the event in the following delightful epic:
In the year 1990, if you're still alive,
I bet you'll remember the Great Doughnut Drive!
The word has gone forth that our school had to
beat
All other schools who'd attempted this feat.
So we promised ourselves that we'd all work like —
well,
Just wait till you hear all the story I tell!
First, a week to get orders, and all through the
town,
Not a housewife who hadn't her name written
down,
Not a pupil who hadn't again and again
Filled a book up with orders of sugared and plain.
Came the day when the schoolyard was swarming
and packed
With trucks from the bakers. The cartons were
stacked
In the girls' cafeteria, from window to wall
(Mr. Moorhouse and camera surveying it all).
Then boxes were opened and cartons unsealed,
And there lay the millions of doughnuts revealed,
All smelling delicious, all fresh and aglow,
As light as a feather, as flaky as snow.
Never, in the history of human endeavour,
Had so many doughnuts been gathered together!
And then we went forth to deliver our hoard.
O Shades of historians! What pen can record
The trials and disasters that met us that day,
As with dozens of doughnuts we staggered away.
We claim not to glory in blood, sweat and tears,
But we certainly ran into mud, wet, and jeers.
A box would burst open and fall in the street!Oh
well! that would do for the home folks to eat.
The bus drivers scowled as we clambered aboard,
Or made scathing jokes on our savoury hoard.
We tramped or we hiked or we pulled a small cart'
We begged passing motorists to please have a
heart.
But somehow we managed, and homeward, we
toiled,
To sell to our mothers the odd ones we'd spoiled.
Next morning brought trials of a different sort.
"Check your names with returns! To Room 20
report!"
My friends, shall we ever forget our sad plight,
When totals and funds simply wouldn't come right.
How we added and checked and compared and
erased,
But that wretched three dozen refused to be
traced!
So the teacher made up what was missing, and then
We turned with relief to our studies again.
Room 20 resembles King Midas's store,
With great piles of silver laid out on the floor,
And bills beyond number, all bundled and neat
Lay on every available table and seat.
Mr. Hill and his helpers were lost in amounts,
As they checked up the checkers, and counted the
counts.
And now I arrive at the last scene of all!
A squad of policemen march down the main hall.
Four of them bear a great irombound chest
Containing the total, as doubtless you've guessed;
While two others follow, who bear with a will,
The limp-looking carcase of poor Mr. Hill.
So there is the story for Hitler to know,
How at Jarvis Collegiate the NUTS raised the
Once a week the knitting committee, comprised of one
female representative from each form, met in Miss Nesbitt's
room to hand in their classmates' creations and obtain more
wool. Many girls continued to knit while on vacation, returning
from their 1941 Christmas holidays with thirty pairs of socks,ten
helmets, fifteen sweaters and an assortment of scarves, mittens
and "wristlets". Harold Shield recalls learning to knit at the
Friday Red Cross meetings, where he fashioned his "master
144

piece", a washcloth. On parcelling days the Contact and
Distribution Committee turned rooms 37 and 38 into "a
supermarket", packing and tying twenty to thirty cartons under
Mr. Muir's direction. *5 Each contained one knitted article and a
ditty, plus writing materials, shaving cream, tooth paste, fruit
juice concentrate, cake, "Chiclets", "Life-savers", raisins, hard
candy, cookies wrapped in cellophane and chocolate bars
provided by the Boys' Club.
About twenty-five ditty bags were usually packed at one time. Each contained one knitted article, a ditty, and an assortment
Of items such as tooth paste, hard candy, "Chiclets", and fruit juice concentrate. The photograph was taken in the cafeteria.
145

A few weeks after the parcels were sent off, the efforts of
the various committees found their rewards in the letters from
grateful recipients which were pinned to Mr. Sheppard's bulletin
board for everyone to enjoy.
Not all the hard-earned money was spent on items which
were stuffed into ditty bags. Donations were made to the Red
Cross, the Navy League, the Chinese Relief Fund and the
Russian Relief Fund. While remaining money was frequently
invested in war savings' certificates, students also purchased a
Bren gun for the Department of Defence at a cost of $325.00.
Other organizations involved in the "cause" included the Stamp
Club, which sold thousands of war savings' stamps; and Miss
Cosens' home economics class, which sewed pinafores for
British children, collected clothing for Russian orphans and made
700 tapes to be used as holders for blood serum.
As a result of a farm labour shortage, Premier Hepburn
devised another means by which students could help their
country. According to The Hepburn Plan, grade 13 pupils who
preferred not to write departmental examinations could be
"recommended" if they worked on a farm from May 1st to
August 31st for approximately $8.00 a week. Although farmers
and trustees interpreted the idea as fostering "child labour" and
promoting "a hooky holiday", the Plan worked. Farmers soon
realized that they had objected to a source of cheap, enthusiastic
labour. One J.C.I. farmerette, Barbara Burns laughed, "I was
among the hoards of high school girls who picked peaches in the
Niagara Peninsula. At our camp near Kingsville about 150 of us
slept in a dance hall which had been converted into a dormitory
We always reeked of onions and had to dowse our hands with
perfume before hitch-hiking into Windsor to find some sailors
from H.M.C.S. Hunter."
Following the declaration of war, many parents living in
the British Isles sent their children to Canada to be billeted with
friends for the duration of the conflict. At least ten "war guests"
were welcomed into J.C.I. including Joan Perry who revealed:
I often used to dream about Canada once I
knew I might be going there. They were vague but
pleasant dreams, usually about skiing down long
cotton-wool slopes in bright sunny weather. I
always glided down easily and gracefully, and never
reached the foot of the hill. Thus I formed
ideas that people in Canada were fantastic
always
living in log cabins, going on long playing
journeys
huskies, skiing, and skating by turns. with
I still like
imagine a life like that, sweet, to
untroubled,
blissful in its ignorance of outside and
affairs.*6
She later remarked, "Never in my life have I known aschool that
Another war guest, Jean Gray, shed some light
differing life styles of British and Canadian on
students: the
I had never before tasted or even seen hot dogs,
hamburgers, corn on the cob, pumpkin pie or other
pies either. Canadians do have such strange food.
I was amazed at the hair styles, nail polish and
make-up to be seen in the Canadian schools. At
home we are not allowed to use cosmetics or nail
polish and we could only have one row of curls.t8
It must have been distressing for those courageous
visitors to leave their homes, families and friends; but
customs and colloquialisms of their new
the
land also enjoyable relief. When a teacher advised
provided
a tardy Londoner
"Step on it", the latter looked down and
to
asked, "On
At 10:00 a.m. on May 8, 1945, the public address system
became the centre of attention for the only time in its existence.
The Hallelujah Chorus burst forth to mark the arrival of V-E Day,
after which Mr. Allin announced that school was dismissed
Immediately pupils tumbled into the streets to celebrate.*100ne
mother, however, echoed the thoughts of so many by responding
to the news with a tearful, "My boy came back, but so many
didn't!" Of the 1,016 Jarvis alumni who enlisted, one hundreddid
not "come back".
Despite the victory in Europe, members of the Stamp
Club felt strongly that "the Dominion should not slacken its
efforts one iota in the prosecution of the war in the
support their statement, the Club launched a campaign to sell
$1,000 in war savings' stamps, and calculated their daily earnings
in a somewhat novel way. Ten days after the campaign began,
"the guillotine constructed by students was lowered the
notch, decapitating Hirohito by the final sum of
last
146

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FRED HARRIS
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JAMES T' JAC-KES
JACOB
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CHARLES
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Of the 1,016 Jarvis alumni who enlisted in World War Il, 100 were killed in action. The three
panels in the auditorium contain the names of our war dead
Photo: Fallis Stafford.
147

148
The theme of the World War Il memorial was i 'convoy duty in the North Sea". The artist,
George Reid, died in 1947 after painting four panels. His wife, Mary, completed the work in
1949.
Photo: Walter Moorhouse.

One more project relating to World War Il yet remained
— the construction of a suitable memorial to those who gave
their lives. In 1946 a committee agreed that such a tribute would
be comprised of three panels containing the names of the war
dead and a series of six murals to be painted by George Reid.
Both were to be located along the auditorium's east wall. Mr.
Reid selected as his theme, convoy duty in the North Sea. In 1947
the artist died at the age of 82 having finished only the four murals
now located over the windows. The remaining two panels were
completed by his wife, Mary, in 1949. *13
Jarvis Collegiate's first Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, Trial
by Jury, was presented on February, 1942, and was directed by
Mr. Wilkie. Preparations for the event went well until the week of
auditions when it became apparent that the production might
suffer from student inexperience and a dearth of male actors.
With time, however, the director surreptitiously filled the jury
box and then turned his attention to lesser plights such as those
of Lionel Ginsler, whose part required that he explain his
appointment to the bench and dance a jig simultaneously.
Invariably His Worship either remembered the jig and forgot the
song, or sang the song and forgot the jig. Fortunately, everyone
was amused no matter what he did.
Despite the success of Trial by Jury, Mr. Wilkie never
directed another operetta. The major dramatic production of the
following year was the Jarvis Varieties, a blend of skits and solos
which revealed an assortment of moods and talents. An all-girl
class presented the miscreant past of Mr. Cook, their form
master. The success of the melodrama was credited to the
audience who hissed in "all the proper spots". A more serious
diversion in the program was provided by pianist David Johnston
who had already played with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
His performance in the Varieties was that of a superb soloist,
only three years away from a New York debut. *16 The
production's grand finale was a "spectacular affair featuring
Britannia, Uncle Sam and representatives of all the British
Commonwealth, the Allied Nations, the armed forces and
industries.
A four-year period of inactivity after the 1943 Varieties
preceded renewed student participation in dramatics beginning
with The Gay Nineties Revue. Written by Miss Griffith and
arranged by Mr. Stubbs, it presented various "old musical
favourites" in the setting of the O'Grady's livingroom. As Rosie's
romance overcame the evil obstacles of the villainous Horace,
the audience joined the performers in singing, She's Only a Girl in
a Gilded Cage, Sidewalks of Old York, and Sweet Rosie
O'Grady. A comely can-can won much adulation from the
boys. Probably greeting the final curtain with relief and
satisfaction was Mr. Wilkie, the associate director, for whom the
show had been a farewell to Jarvis. After enlarging both the
Orchestra and the Glee Club, he had watched them develop into
two skilled and sophisticated organizations capable of producing
excellent performances of musicals and operettas. He also must
have been gratified to learn that his efforts would be continued by
that energetic, talented triumvirate of Ted Stubbs, orchestra
conductor; Ron Campbell, producer, and Jack Overholt, choir
master.
In the autumn on 1946 work began on Gilbert and
Sullivan's operetta, The Pirates of Penzance. When the casting
was completed, Mr. Overholt began rehearsing with the principal
characters and choir, Mr. Stubbs introduced the music to the
orchestra and Mr. Campbell tackled the producer's multitude of
responsibilities. Finally, in February, 1947, after months of
preparation, the curtain rose on what Alan Crofoot described as
"a first-rate artistic performance," a laudable comment from a
pupil destined to spend twenty years with the Canadian Opera
Company before joining the Metropolitan Opera Company in
New York.*19
On a February evening in 1948 more than 700 grade eight
pupils jostled their way into the auditorium to enjoy the dress
rehearsal of H.M.S. Pinafore, which would be presented for four
nights to capacity "houses". After praising the performances of
Vera Sawicki, Thelma Wilken, George Tsukornyk and Jim
McLean, one reporter continued:
But what really caught our attention was
Jarvis' unique (as far as we know) habit of inserting
their own ad libbing into the script. For one thing,
rather than giving their encores exactly as the
originals, the kids sang parodies. At one particular
point, shortly after Sir Joseph first came on the
scene, a part was added to the script in order to
allow Lilian Jarvis, (the name is purely coincidental)
to do her ballet routine. *20
149

Lilian Keator (née Jarvis) regarded the so-called "ballet routine"
which was actually a horn-pipe, as her "first 'professional'
appearance". She later became a principal dancer with the
National Ballet Company.
The setting for the 1949 production of The Mikado offered
a new challenge to the make-up department and set designer as
well as the artists. Occidentals appearing as orientals stood
before Ko-Ko's palace in Titipu, Japan, waving their fans and
shuffling their feet to everyone's delight. The performance of
Iolanthe in 1950 was the last for several experienced leads
including Thelma Wilken.
Each year brought new talent, providing Mr. Overholt
with fresh incentive and vitality. Nor was there difficulty in
recruiting approximately 200 students annually to paint sets, join
the chorus, apply make-up or sell tickets. By 1950 operettas had
become J.C.I.'s leading extra-curricular activity.
Boys' athletics enjoyed less success during the Allin era,
primarily because the prohibitive cost of ice rentals meant the
suspension of interscholastic hockey from 1941 to 1945. Only the
swim team had cause to celebrate. In 1945 both the Juniors and
Intermediates won T.S.S.A.A. titles, and the Juniors repeated
their feat in 1946 and again in 1948. Many members of the Junior
team advanced to the senior division the following year, where
they again won the city championship.
After numerous rehearsals in the University Avenue
Armouries, 400 students participated in the Girls' Physical
Education Demonstration which was directed by Miss Stinson
and held at Varsity Arena in May, 1946. Before a "packed house",
the performance began with "a mammoth march-past [and] an
exhibition of gymnastics that would put a chimpanzee to shame".
The program continued with displays of badminton, archery,
volleyball and baseball followed by "various dances in colourful
costumes " *21 It concluded with the girls forming the word
"JARVIS" across the arena floor.
In June, 1948, the new Jarvis Collegiate Association held a
meeting at the school under the chairmanship of Alex Edmison.
Combining both cultural and social activities, the program
included an historical sketch by Mr. Jenkins, slides by Mr.
Moorhouse and a dance. Among the recent graduates eligible to
attend were Edward Safarian, dean of the University of Toronto's
School of Graduate Studies; George Crum, musical director of
the National Ballet of Canada; Allan Lawrence, the former
provincial cabinet minister and Attorney-General; and Ann
Shilton, who was destined to become J.C.I.'s first woman
principal.
WALLY
J, ALEX K.c
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PROGRAME
JOHN Mt•.sno
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DAVID J. WALKER.
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LOWMAN
WALTER MOOIOIOUSE
MRS. T. X. SI«OO.N.SLO
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JARVIS COLLEGIATE ASSOCIATION
NO.v.'L0
Dear Former Jarvisite :
505 JARVIS STREET
TtLErnose
TORONTO. ONTARIO
BOARD OF OIRECTORS
AUDREY
GERALD
This is to give you a cordial invitation to the first
open meeting of the Jarvis Collegiate Association. to be held at 8 p.m.
sharp. on Wednesday. June 9th. at the school. 505 Jarvis Street.
A wide programme has been arranged — musical
numbers by talented former pupils now popular over the radio
networks—an historical sketch of the Old School by Vice-Principal
Jenkins—some more slides unearthed from the dusty archives of
W alter Moorhouse—dancing for those still able to dance. etc.,
etc. Without question it will be one of the most memorable events
in the long cavalcade Of Jarvis Collegiate.
Sports stalwarts of the old School number among others
Gene D opp. Harry Sniderman. Long Jawn Sinclair. John Munro. the
Darbyshire boys. and all will be there. The triumphs of the past will
be relived that night.
Please be on hand in good time and bring with you as
many old Jarvisites as possible.
Sincerely yours,
.gl/ea.:: (%bnÖuom,
President
151

From 1941, when Jarvis held its first evening commencement,
until 1950, the number of graduates increased from fifty.
three to eighty-six. For those eighty-six students the 1950
commencement proved to be particularly memorable as they
listened to an emotional valedictory speech given by Fern
Huneault, a veteran from Montreal who had lost his sight in an
explosion just after the war. Mr. Huneault had come to J.C.I. to
learn English as well as to obtain a grade 13 diploma. According
to Gerry Allen, "He couldn't speak a word of English when he
arrived ... but he was brilliant." If he did have language problems,
they were not evident in his valedictory address in which he
admitted:
When I first came to Jarvis, I was scared.
Perhaps because I was a little older than the
average student, a veteran, and especially on
account of my handicap, I was scared. What would
be the attitude of the teaching body, of my
classmates? What kind of welcome would I get? I
am ashamed to admit that all these thoughts or
rather uncertainties and questions did enter my
mind. But now I know differently... Then gradually
I got to meet Mr. Jenkins who was of the greatest
help to me, and then all of the teachers. And all that
time I was getting to know more and more students
and gradually my fright was changed to peace and
happiness and finally gratitude and unbreakable
ties of friendship.
Before concluding his speech he expressed his appreciation to
one specific student:
152
All during the year someone looked after me.
That someone has guided me both physically and
mentally. Physically by helping me from classroom
to classroom, from a laboratory to the cafeteria,
from the lockers to the door. Always was he at my
side. Mentally, by being a source of inspiration and
encouragement when perhaps I found the going a
little tough.... During classes he was sitting behind
me and always ready to help me when a teacher
would use one Of these four dreadful words —
"here, there, this or that". There is your answer,
fellow graduates. I know you have been wondering
all year why Jack Haigh and I could get away with
talking all the time during classes. ... I owe him my
future.*22
After obtaining his graduation diploma, Mr. Huneault retu
Montreal where he is now assistant to the executive
Quebec's C.N.IR. His close friend, Jack Haigh, explained
unusual relationship: "My problem was to express what he
visualize and the exercise was more beneficial to me than
him.'
The other highlight of that commencement
was
tribute paid to Arthur Allin, who had come to Jarvis asa
teacher in 1913, and was appointed principal in 1939.
retirement in 1950 marked the end of a thirty-seven year careerat
Jarvis where he distinguished himself as a headmaster
capable of
overcoming the potential problems of staff shortages and
serving the needs of wartime organizations. of
Recent
made by his former colleagues verify the 1950 remarl$
Magnet appraisd:
"His quiet alertness, his kindness of manner and comment
inspired both students and staff, and Jarvis Collegiate forged
ahead. "*23
The Star Shield was also awarded to J.C.I. for the 1939 Magnet.
2 The Toronto Star (June 6, 1944).
3 Gerry Bryans.
4 Cochrane, Honora, "The Great Doughnut Drive," The Magnet (1943).
5 The Magnet (1946).
6 Perry, Joan, "My Impressions of Canada," The Magnet (1941).
7 The Magnet (1941).
8 Ibid.
9 Ibid.
10 The Magnet (1945).
11 "Jarvis Students Ask Full Effort," The Evening Telegram (May, 1945).
12 "Jarvis C.I. Raises War Sum of $2,300," The Evening
1945).
Telegram
13 "Our Principal," The Magnet (1950).
14 "Operating the Operetta," The Magnet (1942).
15 "Pupils Offer Clever Skits at Jarvis C.I.," The
1943).
Toronto Telegram (Mar. 19,
16 "Johnston to Play Canadian Works
(Nov.
in
8,
U.S.
1946).
Recitals," The Toronto Ste
17 "Pupils Offer Clever Skits at Jarvis C.I.," op. cit.

18 "Gay Nineties Jarvis Revue Top Success," The Toronto Telegram (Feb. 21,
1946).
19 Crofoot, A. , "Opera Comes to Jarvis," The Magnet (1947).
20 Edwards, Marion, "Stagecoach," Canadian High News (1948).
21 "3,000 Pupils to Give Mass 'Gym' Display," The Toronto Star (May 6, 1946).
22 The Magnet (1951).
23 "Our Principal," The Magnet (1950).
Students in national dress for the 1951 U.N. Assembly Day.
Back Row: Stephanie Sawchyn, Lillian Bozinoff, Jaan Kruus, Stan Burak, Benita Preisbergs, Laila Tuters, Elvira Zondaks, Maureen Dunigan.
Third Row: Evelyn Mark, Drusila Carles, Marion Mayer, Justina Rusnak, Ines Saarekivi, Vappu Narvainen, Lea Bell, Dora Veenstra. Sonia
Wyszkowski.
Second Row: Janet Kaskiw, Daphne Nicoloff, Regina Bilktys, Laura Marr, Julia Demborinski, Florence Hansen. Sophie Zahumeny, Joan Stanich.
Front Row: Ryoko Takeuchi, Madelyn Mayer, Jane MacPhail, Shuko Kamitakahara, Sophy Korol, Evelyn Woo.
Photo: Douglas Carscallen.
153

CHAPTER 14
The second half of the twentieth century ushered in the
Korean War, hula hoops, brush cuts, blue jeans and a
symposium for Toronto teachers on television, a new invention
which would revolutionize education. The demonstration of this
marvelous machine was headlined, Cyclops in the Classroom.
The first hour of the symposium passed with a constant stream of
glowing praise until Jarvisite James Cook could restrain himself
no longer. He leaped to his feet shouting, "I've stood about as
much as I can stand! Cyclops! A one-eyed goat kept in a dark
cave and milked by natives for their own pleasure!"*1 But
teenagers definitely approved of the new invention as they
watched Elvis Presley on the Ed Sullivan Show and found him
decidedly more enjoyable than homework. As the decade
progressed they would spend more and more time gazing at TV.
Between 1950 and 1952 extensive immigration to Toronto
almost doubled the city's population from 667,000 to 1,261,000.
This explosion was most apparent at the Collegiate where 70 per
cent of the students were "new Canadians".
Dr. James Jenkins, the mathematics master whose
discipline, dedication and sense of humour had endeared him to
the staff and students for twenty-eight years, became principal in
1950, only two years prior to his retirement. His was a wellearned
appointment which pleased everyone concerned,
including John McKellar who declared, "Dr. Jenkins' interest in
his subject was equalled by his interest in his pupils ... As a young
student, one's first instinct was to get out of his way ... As time
went on, however, you realized he was a staff member who was
prepared in the true Biblical sense, to go the second mile with any
student who was prepared to put forth the effort."*2 In the
opinion of the present principal, Ann Shilton, "His facade was
terrifying, but he was a very beautiful man."
During Dr. Jenkins' short term in office, operetta
performances continued to flourish. The 1951 production of The
Gondoliers won Vera Stacey considerable praise when
notice she adeptly assumed the role of an ailing major
The followtng year Messrs. Overholt and Campbell
Robert Planquette's The Chimes of Normandy to
the talents of such performers as Lillian Bozinoff, pg„.,
Robertson, Henry Micek, and Walter Petrvkan.
Dr. Jenkins, who was principal from 1950 to 1952, looks upon birthdas
gift from his fifth form with affection.
Photo: Douglas Carscallen.
154

In 1951 J.C.I. bid farewell to Fletcher Staples, the twentyeight-year
veteran of classics who was supposedly retiring from
teaching. The Community Hebrew Academy, however, had a
better idea and hired him to teach Hebrew. He again retired at
the age of eighty-four after an impressively long career of sixtyeight
years. *3
Shortly before Dr. Jenkins' retirement in 1952, the
University of Toronto awarded him an honorary LL.B. in
recognition of his contribution to his subject, as well as his staff
and students during his thirty years at Jarvis Collegiate. In
granting the degree, the president of the University aptly
described "the Old Philosopher" as "truly a mathematical Mr.
Chips".
During his principalship from 1952 to 1969, Milton Jewell introduced the
Daily Magnet, popularized Jewell's Rules and legalized the wearing of
shorts in the classroom.
Photo: Walter Moorhouse.
Milton Jewell's appointment as principal in September,
1952, coincided with the discovery by 856 students of several
viable alternatives to homework. 3,000 drive-in theatres had just
opened across the country, the CBC-TV network began
broadcasting from coast to coast and the Argos were about to
win the Grey Cup. By 1955 the movie industry had launched a
grand counter-attack upon television with cinemascope, 3-D
vision, stereophonic sound and Biblical extravaganzas such as
Ben Hur. At the 1957 Bell Telephone Assembly students
watched in amazement as a long distance call was dialed direct.
Milton Jewell was appointed principal of Malvern in 1947
and transferred to J.C.I. five years later. Initially, he found the
situation "harder" at Jarvis. He recalled, "At the time the
teachers were older and I was the youngest principal in Toronto
. I had learned much about administration in the Air Force and
applied it in the school ... Communication was very important,
so I started the Quo Vadis [list of daily announcements] for the
staff and the Daily Magnet for the kids . I wanted everyone to
know their duties and what was going on." In order to maintain
both respect and discipline, Jewell's Rules were drawn up and
presented to the pupils. Delivered more as a request than an
edict, the Rules were adhered to and enforced with little difficulty.
Because many of the staff were approaching retirement
age, hiring of competent, energetic replacements was an annual
problem due to the growing teacher shortage. In 1954 the exodus
of well-tenured, highly respected teachers began with Stanley
Ferguson and Harold Sheppard. Mr. Ferguson, the master of
ironic wit and head of the English Department, had joined the
staff in 1932. Mr. Sheppard, the popular, soft-spoken head of
History, had been at Jarvis for twenty-one years and had served
as adviser to the History Club and Wartime Records Committee.
The following year saw the resignation of Peter Muir, a mild,
authoritative chemist who had established his own rather odd
annual tradition. After hermetically sealing his room, he would
produce hydrogen sulphide and then open the hall doors to
demonstrate diffusion throughout the school. Three of the four
departing teachers in 1956 had been at Jarvis for ten years. Ted
Stubbs, who taught English and conducted the orchestra for five
operettas took a one-year leave, and then returned as viceprincipal
before transferring to Malvern. John Johnston, a
155

superb master of mathen)atics, also moved to another school.
Douglas Carscallen's resignation proved to be temporary, for he
returned to Minerva's mansion in 1968 as vice-principal, a
position which he still holds. As a chemist, his flare for pouring
liquids into flasks always entertained his student
photographer, he contributed extensively audience.
to both As
the
Club and The Magnet.
C
arnetd
Staff of Jarvis Collegiate Institute, 1953-54: Fourth row, left to right: E. Hill, J. Nelson, M. Brokenshire, L.
J. Johnston, R.
McKerracher,
Campbell. W. Gordon, W. Bowman. Third row: J. Coombs, A. Gilbert, E. Cosens,
L. Griffith,
Miss
S. McRobert, D. Elliott, J. Cameron,
Irwin,
G. Logan.
E.
A.
Sears,
Hodgins, J. Overholt.
Second row: H. Dyce. K. St. John. H. Sheppard, S. Ferguson, M. Jewell, R. Page, J. Cook, W. Darbyshire,
First row: D. Carscallen.
P.
J. Fraumeni,
Muir.
G. Warren, H. Campbell, G. Allen, D. Hazell, R. Collins, T. Pickering, B. Duncan.
156

Lloyd McKerracher's retirement in 1956 concluded
four years of service
thirty-
to J.C.I. As an English
blackboard sketches
master,
revealed
his
certain artistic talents, but
students realized that
few
he had begun teaching in 361 Jarvis Street
as an art instructor. Perhaps the highlight of Mr. McKerracher's
career occurred in the auditorium during the 1953 Remembrance
Day Service. With much pride, the charming, little veteran of
World War I "drew himself to his full height, with his shoulders
back and chest out," as Major J.R.H. Morgan decorated him with
the Coronation Medal. His former principal, Arthur Allin, made
the following reference to the investiture while addressing a
subsequent staff dinner:
"Perhaps you will permit me to say that I have
been thinking particularly of Mr. McKerracher in
the last few days.
"We all know what a loveable soul he is and
what a charming and delightful companion. We
enjoy his stories, his whimsical humour, and his
chuckles.
' 'We know how greatly he is liked by his pupils
and with what warmth of feeling he is remembered
by Jarvis graduates.
"It is satisfying to know that his worth is also
recognized and appreciated beyond the school —
even by Her Majesty, The Queen."
Turning to Mr. McKerracher, Mr. Allin added,
"It pleases us greatly, Mac, that this honour
has come to one whom we all honour— and
respect — and love. "*4
Two more colourful veterans retired in 1958. For thirtyfive
years the unpredictable John Nelson had been re-enacting
World War I with the approval of his happily-wounded history
students. No more would he bound to the blackboard and
quickly diagram a battle, no more would he use his desk as a
landing strip. Today the trench in his classroom is quiet, but
many an "old boy" still recalls the day he was gunned down by
Mr. Nelson. The other "warrior", Melville Brokenshire, came to
Jarvis in 1922 to teach French and Spanish and accept the
responsibility of staff adviser to the Cadet Corps and Pipe Band.
With the phasing out of two departments in 1958, Edith Cosens,
who had been teaching home economics to "Jarvisettes" since
1939, moved to Northern Vocational. Arthur Gilbert, a superb
teacher of woodwork, metal work, drafting and electricity since
1946, was also transferred that year due to the termination of the
shop program. With him went another twelve-year veteran,
Ward Gordon, who had taught English before becoming the
school's first full-time librarian. In 1959 Harry Dyce retired from
the science department where he had obtained outstanding
departmental results from his students for thirty-three years.
Katherine St. John, who retired with him, had graduated from
the school in 1914 and returned as a languages teacher in 1937.
Continuing a family tradition, she took over French classes from
her sister, Helen, and left a considerable impression on some "old
girls" who can still sing her German pronouns to the tune of
Farmer in the Dell. William Darbyshire, captain of the 1930 J.C.I.
Senior Basketball Team, returned to his alma mater in 1945 to
teach mathematics. For the next ten years he was a wellrespected
track coach and "the best math teacher in Toronto". *5
In 1956 he was appointed vice-principal of the Collegiate, a
position he held for three years until he became principal of
Riverdale Collegiate.
During the 1950's the rapid increase in Toronto's
population, the frenzied suburban construction and the
worsening teacher shortage, allowed many masters to accept
promotions to other institutes after accumulating only a few
years of experience. Of the fifty teachers employed at Jarvis
Collegiate in 1959, only chemist and counsellor Ellis Evans would
be on staff when Mr. Jewell retired in 1969. 1952 brought more
than a new principal to J. C.I. A post-graduate special
commercial option was introduced which made good use of the
typing room and attracted up to 265 girls annually, for the six
years of its duration. Physical changes in the building included
the remodelling of two classrooms, one for instruction in
instrumental music, the other for the teaching of art. In
November, 1952, the library was renamed the Dr. Edwin A.
Hardy Library in honour of the tenacious gentleman who had
updated and expanded the collection during his twenty-six years
as head of the English Department. There were also changes of a
more startling nature, such as the announcement that, "All
senior students may now enter the school via the front doors.
The rotunda had previously been "off limits". The forerunner of
the English as a Second Language program (E.S.L.) was
introduced as an experiment in 1953 when Laurie Chambers
began teaching English to form 9-H. This group of newcomers to
Canada was known as "the Chinese Class" although it contained
157

For seventeen years a major portion of Mr. Jewell's time
revolved around the planning and completion of renovations and
additions. He explained: "The public schools in this area weren't
given anything, so we had to fight to get everything ... There was
much politics in trying to get the Board to give you priority ... If
you could get strong trustees in your area, it was really helpful,
but you daren't offend trustees from other areas ... One of my
prize arguments was, 'Our area is being discriminated against'."
While plans were underway for the addition of a south
wing in 1954, fluorescent lights were installed to replace the
school's memorable "fish bowls". Mr. Jewell was also successful
in having the auditorium renovated the following year. "We
needed a larger stage because of the size of the band, and those
splintered portable chairs used to nip the girls' nylons ... But the
architects wanted to get rid of the memorial paintings because
they were so expensive to keep up and to clean." But when the
project was completed, the murals were left intact, three sections
of electrically-controlled contour curtains were suspended
before the stage which had been enlarged to 27 feet by 60 feet,
and 714 permanent, cushioned, flamingo-red seats were affixed
to the main floor and the balcony.
Meanwhile, the new south wing was also being completed.
During its planning, the principal had argued before trustees that
Jarvis needed the best facilities, equipment and parking in order
to attract new teachers away from suburbia. He had also justified
having a large gymnasium as the Collegiate was conveniently and
centrally located to host various athletic championships. At that
time the Board was renting facilities from the Separate School
Board in order to hold the basketball finals.
At a formal ceremony in the auditorium in November,
1955, trustee B.M. Grayson presented a silver key to the school
"as a means of opening the new wing"; Rev. J.V. Mills, chairman
of the Board's Property Committee, formally declared the new
addition open; and everyone then toured the new facilities and
enjoyed an exhibition of volleyball and square-dancing in the
gymnasium. It soon was apparent that Mr. Jewell had presented
the trustees with a convincing case. The home economics area
displayed modern equipment including eight new sewing
machines, an automatic washer and an electric dryer. The five
additional classrooms contained linoleum floor tiles, sound-proof
ceilings and green blackboards for better vision. As impressive as
this all may have been, the real highlight of the south wing was the
largest gymnasium in Canada. Its 96 by 104 foot floor could
accommodate ten practice baskets, and the balconies along
either side of it could be used for weight-lifting or mat work. Foldaway
bleachers located on both the main floor and balconies
could seat 1,000 spectators. Modern showers, exhaust fans and
special acoustic baffles to eliminate echoes had also been
installed. After viewing the spacious gymnasium, guests were
guided to the new sixty-foot rifle range located beneath it.
Traffic noise was curtailed two years later by double
glazing the windows facing Wellesley and Jarvis Streets at a cost
of
For three weeks in the summer of 1954 "Miltie's Kilties" carried out
their cadet duties in Banff and found some time to tour Alberta.
Courtesy: Arthur Jewell.
159

In the spring of 1953, Ian Fraser, a student and piper,
discussed with Mr. Jewell the possibility of forming a Jarvis Pipe
Band. Responding favourably to the idea, the principal acquired
the sponsorship of the 48th Highlanders who agreed to provide
pipes, drums, chanters, uniforms and two instructors, Pipe
Major James Fraser and Drum Major A. Munro. Twenty
students joined the fledgling, but enthusiastic "Miltie's Kilties"
which practised at the school twice a week and at the University
Armouries on Friday nights. Their affiliation with the Cadet
Corps also allowed them to participate in the cadet camp at
Ipperwash for seven weeks each summer. In 1954 three of those
weeks were spent in Banff, Alberta, where the cadets continued
their duties and still managed to take in all the tourist attractions
during their apparent abundance of free time.*8 The 1957 cadet
inspection was one of the Band's final appearances. They had
performed in various church parades and route marches,
including the Santa Claus Parade; however, the ill health and the
retirement of both instructors, forced the Band to withdraw from
active service.
HON. LESTER PEARSON, PRINCIPAL
T'E.ARSON
CHARLES HENRY. M.P., CENTRE BACKGROUND
SHIRLEY roc.UE. LEFT. ANN NAYLOR
Mr. Jewell greets Hon. Lester B. Pearson, Secretary of State and
President of the U.N. General Assembly.
On March 25, 1954, examinations were postponed in
order that Lester B. Pearson, Minister of External Affairs and
president of the United Nations' General Assembly addressed an
assembly in the auditorium. For the Honourable Minister the
occasion was unique: Never before had he been "individually
piped"; nor did he wear his usual bright bow-tie, instead, he
favoured a straight black tie due to the death of Queen Mary.
Fitting comments by the future prime minister demonstrated
that he had done his homework:
I wonder why the beauty of spring has to be
spoiled by examinations? I wish you good luck in
them, for I've learned that good luck is awfully
important in examinations. *9
Referring to the school in a more serious tone, he noted that,
At Jarvis Collegiate there are 152 foreign born
students from some 25 countries ... The fact that
you can live and work and play together without
regard to the country of your origin encourages us
who are working for the same results international-
Iy.*10
Today, the Pearson visit is remembered, not as a break from
examinations, but as a proud, exciting day in the history of Jarvis
Collegiate.
The continuing success of the Cadet Corps during the
1950's was due in part to the year-round efforts of the noncommissioned
officers. Annual inspections also generated a
great deal of interest. It was no dull affair to see the Brass Band
join in with the Pipe Band, or to see the Officers' Precision Squad
being upstaged by the Girls' Precision Squad. Other inspection
highlights included demonstrations by the Signal Corps, First Aid
Group and Bren Gun Squad. *11 The cadets concluded each year
with the Battalion Ball.
160

The 1962 Girls' Precision Squad won the Milton H. Jewell trophy for the best demonstration at Cadet Inspection.
161

Throughout the decade operettas continued as a major
extra-curricular activity. In 1953 Mr. Overholt chose to add a
choral and dance program to the one-act operetta, Trial byJury.
Starring in the leading roles were veteran talents Judy Shachter,
Barbara Lipson, Bruce Crockett and Wally Russell; they were
joined by David Hughes, Ted Stephens, Robert Wong and
Andrew Zajac. The second half of the evening included a barn
dance arranged by Miss Stinson, Ukrainian folk dances and
several selections by the Glee Club. Another featured performer
that evening was violinist Andrea Hansen who is currently with
the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. In 1954 Bob Wickham was
highly praised for his role as the police sergeant in The Pirates of
Penzance. Accolades also went to Dennis Bellinger, Joyce
Cairns, Bob Curran, Anthony Grey, Andrea Hansen, David
Harvey, Barbara Kirkham and Marie Peaker. The 1955
production of The Mikado won the London Trophy, an annual
award granted for the best Gilbert and Sullivan performance by
an Ontario school. This well-earned prize was a credit to the
cast's talent and effort, Mr. Overholt's enthusiasm and ability,
and the return of the dedicated stage director, Mr. Campbell.
The following account of the opening-night performance
appeared in the Telegram:
The Mikado returned to Toronto last night and
was given a surprisingly slick treatment by pupils of
Jarvis Collegiate.
The fresh and enthusiastic handling of the
venerable work by Messrs. Gilbert and Sullivan, by
the cast of teen-agers, was warmly appreciated by
an audience of 750.
The vivid costumes, colorful sets, and wellbalanced
lighting combined to add lustre to a
highly-polished show.
The school orchestra gave faithful, if at times
too exuberant, treatment of the Sullivan score.
Special plaudits from the satisfied audience
were accorded Charles Carr as Ko Ko, Urve
Soopere (a New Canadian pupil) — as Yum Yum
and Karen Beissel as Katisha.
When Iolanthe went into rehearsal the following year, the
new stage director was William Tice and the new orchestra
conductor, Mavis Russell. All progressed well until ill health
forced Mr. Overholt into the hospital in February, where he
remained until just prior to opening night. On February 29th, a
vital, selfless and courageous Jack Overholt was carried to the
third floor classroom where he "warmed-up" the performers. He
then walked into the auditorium,took his place at the piano and
prepared to accompany the choir. The overwhelming ovation
upon his entrance was repeated on each of the three following
evenings. *13 Mr. Overholt's reprieve, however, was brief and on
the morning of May 4, 1956, a shocked and saddened Jarvis
Collegiate was informed of his death. Mr. Stubbs later wrote:
To the classroom he brought knowledge and
radiantly contagious enthusiasm; to Gilbert and
Sullivan operettas for which he made Jarvis
famous, he brought a spirit of fun, implicit
faithfulness to the composers, and the artistry of a
sensitive perfectionist .
The portrait of Jack Overholt was presented to the
school by Gilbert and Sullivan alumni during a concert
by the Jack D. Overholt Memorial Glee Club.
162

Jarvis
Insfitu& Celebraies• 150fK Birihday
In January, 1957, students celebrated the school's 150th birthday at the
Anniversary Ball
Courtesy: The Globe and Mail, Toronto.
163

Gilbert and Sullivan alumni reunited on April 12, 1957, to
form the J.D. Overholt Memorial Glee Club, which was directed
by Harvey Perrin and accompanied by Aurelle Biggs. In memory
of its late master, the choir gave a concert in the auditorium,
singing excerpts from The Gondoliers, Iolanthe and The
Mikado, and then presented a portrait of Mr. Overholt to the
school.
The 1957 Sesquicentennial was cause for great celebration.
At the Anniversary Ball in January midst a decor of bygone
eras, students sang happy birthday to Minerva, blew out the one
and only candle atop the four-foot cake and tried to trap one of
the hundreds of balloons released at the height of the festivities
from an overhead net.
The Sesquicentennial was climaxed by what many
consider to be the most frenzied, ecstatic weekend in the
school's history. On March 1st, before 3,000 fans in Maple Leaf
Gardens, a tired Jarvis Hockey Team led by Bill Agnew and John
Gatten, stepped onto the ice to play its fourth game in a week.
The opposition, an undefeated and favoured Western Tech. had
enjoyed a week's rest. Although the odds were clearly against
Jarvis, two goals by Gord Turnbull, a third by John Gatten and
an admirable performance by rookie netminder Vlade Ampeff
provided the required compensation. Jarvis had won the
T.S.S.A.A. Hockey Championship for the first time in twenty-six
years by a score of 3-2. *15
The following night 1,200 madly cheering basketball
supporters filled the Jarvis gym half an hour before game-time,
wondering whether two titles in two nights were too much to
expect. With a well-balanced starting line-up of Ivars Timbers,
Barrie Smith, Kalju Vahi, Nat Kaiman and Rudy Roth, many
considered J.C.I. the favourite. Such notions disappeared by
half-time as the home team went to the dressing room with a
meagre one-point lead. Fortunately, the second half was
dominated by J.C.I.'s depth and zone defence. At the game's
conclusion, statistics showed that the opposition had been held
to eleven field goals throughout the entire game, that six-footnine-inch
Ivars Timbers had collected twenty-six points, and that
Jarvis Collegiate had won its first T.S.S.A.A. Senior Basketball
Championship in thirty-six years by a score of 55-45 and its
second title in two nights. Twenty years later memories
00k
weekend still reveal the players' zeal, the spectators'
Co-captains Bill Agnew and John Gatten. and coach
Ed Hill hold trophy emblematic of 1957 hockey
championship.
Co-captains Vahi Kalju and Nat Kaiman, along with
coach Graham Warren display 1957 senior basketball
championship trophy.
164

The alumni reunion on June 1st was another joyous
occasion, albeit slightly more subdued. In the auditorium Mr.
Moorhouse projected his slides outlining the school's history
while ex-pupils tried to locate themselves in days when they had
more hair and less weight. The Board presented the school with
the Sesquicentennial plaque which now adorns the rotunda, and
the Collegiate responded by presenting the memorial organ to
the Board. As the evening was about to conclude, a grey-haired
alumnus of 1905 who still bore a youthful appearance, Sir Ernest
MacMillan, settled himself before the organ and played The
Queen. It was a proud ending to a jubilant, auspicious
Sesquicentennial.
Sir Ernest MacMillan at the memorial organ during the Sesquicentennial
reunion.
The next decade brought major changes to the face of
Toronto. In 1965 the opening of the new City Hall competed for
attention with the eight-mile Bloor-Danforth subway line and the
world-record, twelve-lane MacDonald-Cartier Freeway. But it
was not only Toronto's facade which underwent drastic change.
In the early sixties the older generation resisted long hair on boys
and short skirts on girls as students packed Yorkville coffee
houses. These differences soon paled into insignificance,
however, in the face of marijuana, student power and the everwidening
generation gap.
Even in education, numerous challenges to established
concepts and methods resulted in a major overhaul of the
system, beginning with the introduction of "new math" in 1960.
Two years later in accordance with the Robarts Plan Jarvis
instituted programs on "levels" 4, 5 and 6 and introduced the
language labs which turned French teachers into technicians. In
1964 parents welcomed free text books for pupils in grades 9 to
12, and in 1968 students welcomed the abolition of the infamous
"departmental" examinations. Trustees solved the teacher
shortage in 1968 by hiring 121 masters from the United Kingdom
and another 102 from Australia. Upon their arrival in Canada, the
recruits were faced with a new ideology and attitude among
students who preferred to "do their own thing". If you weren't
"anti-establishment" and anti-tradition, you weren't "with it".
Within Jarvis Collegiate many of the extra-curricular
activities which flourished during the 1950's were abandoned
before Mr. Jewell's retirement in 1969. At the annual Sadie
Hawkin's Sock Hop in 1966 Marryin' Sam performed the mass
rites for the last time after prizes were awarded for best vegetable
corsage and for best "cutie" and "critter" costumes. Each year
decorations for "the formal" transformed the gymnasium into a
setting based on a specific theme. Hundreds of students worked
feverishly all day Friday in order to cover walls with murals,
suspend ribbons or inflate balloons to be released during the last
dance of the evening. Karol Michaluk (née Matsui) still recalls the
thrill of being selected "Queen" of 1961's Bridges to the Orient:
"It was honestly a 'dream-come-true'. As a result, I was given the
opportunity to represent several companies for the Japanese
Trade Centre ... That a Japanese-Canadian should be chosen
for such an award at a cosmopolitan school, was considered an
honour by the Japanese community." Today the annual formal
165

The World Affairs Club was introduced to Prime Minister John Diefenbaker in his Ottawa office by Hon. David Walker, a
Jarvis alumnus.
167

In 1964, opposition to cadets began a month prior to the
annual parade and presentations. In March students discovered
that one of the six Bren guns on loan to cadets had been stolen,
apparently to embarrass the battalion and to provide useful
publicity for the Committee Against School Cadets, a branch of
Canadian Students for Nuclear Disarmament. A week later
Gerry Barker's column in The Toronto Star claimed:
Douglas K. Campbell, the militant man about peace
and operator of the Voltaire coffee house, reports
the subject for discussion for the next three
Saturday evenings in the club will be, "Militarism in
our Schools." What they're really going to talk
about is the third annual picket of the Jarvis
Collegiate army cadet inspection, April 10. *20
To add fuel to the fire, students circulated a petition
corps, and some parents, after complaining to opposing
the the
the principal, presented letters excusing their trustees
eligible
sons
etro's 12,000-schoolboy army comes under fire
STUDENTS! STAND UP
FOR YOUR RIGHTS!
Ann.
TOnos-ro
•InIringement•
Ban cadet corps, students demand
pale"
"Metro's 12,000 schoolboy army comes under fire",
Toronto Star on April
appeared
22, 1964.
in
Douglas
The
Campbell
cadet
picketed
inspection for three
the
years.
annual
Courtesy: The Toronto Star.
Members of the Committee Against School Cadets
distributed leaflets to students just prior to the 1964
inspection.
168

In April four pupils from Toronto high
brief to Harold
schools
Dean, presented
assistant
a
superintendent
schools, in which they
of secondary
argued:
As long as cadet corps are a part of the school
curriculum they have a strong element of compulsion.
Only by removal of cadet training from the
school curriculum can we remove this element .
Many students have been "intimidated" because
of their refusal to submit to cadet training and
because of their opposition to it.
We request that the school staffs of Toronto
secondary schools inform their student bodies that
cadet training is voluntary and that one need not
participate in cadet training unless one desires to
do so. *21
In his response Mr. Dean explained that the policy of the
Department of Education "with respect to cadet corps in the
Toronto Secondary Schools is that membership shall be
completely voluntary and activities shall be extra-curricular in
nature. "*22 Regardless of Mr. Dean's statement, there appears to
have been considerable disparity between the Board's policy and
the school's practice. Mr. Jewell stated that the Cadet Corps was
a part of the physical education prograrn rather than an extracurricular
activity. When a reporter asked him if participation in
cadets was voluntary, he replied, "Well, yes and no." Mr. Jewell
explained the contradiction by giving the reasons behind the
annual inspection. "We receive $3.00 per student on parade and
the money is used to buy equipment for the gymnasium and
cadets and to partially cover expenses incurred by the band and
the 'At Home'." In 1963 the battalion earned $1,269.79. *23
The annual inspection on April 10th was carried out with
neither blunders nor incidents while Mr. Campbell carried his
placard in the background demanding, "HIST SCIENCE
LANGUAGE DISCIPLINES
PLINES". *24
NOT MILITARY DISCI-
The controversy raged for months. Finally, in December,
1964, Graham Gore, superintendent of secondary schools for
the Toronto Board of Education, terminated the sixty-five year
old J.C.I. Cadet Corps with the following note to Capt. H.
Hutton, at Cadet Headquarters in Oakville:
This is to advise that the Toronto Board of
Education recommends the disbandment of the
Jarvis Collegiate Institute Cadet Corps as of
Thursday, December 10, 1964. *25
Despite "the tremendous feeling of absence of Jack
Overholt " ,*26 the operettas continued in 1957 with four
performances of Gilbert and Sullivan's The Gondoliers. The new
musical director, Jim Davies, who was responsible for both the
choir and the orchestra, had the enthusiastic co-operation of
producer William Tice and the experienced line direction of Ted
Stubbs. The 1958 production of H.M.S. Pinafore was the last for
several talented leads including Bob Stewart, David Burton, Ron
Benny, Helen Hansen, and Urve Soopere. More leads would also
bid adieu to operettas the following year when the curtain fell on
the final scene of The Mikado. On that occasion Vlade Ampeff,
Marjorie Arikado, John Mingay, Judi Montague, Don Prenevost,
Bob Stewart, Paul Veley and Ann Wolfe all took their final bow.
The only experienced, major performers to participate in Trial by
Jury in 1960 were Marvin Belfour and Sharon Routley. To
complete the evening the one-act production was bolstered by a
one-act play directed by Bruce Vance. The Pirates of Penzance,
presented in 1961, featured Jim Bond, Soile Hautamaki, Sharon
Macintosh and Marvin Belfour, and was the last operetta to be
produced in Jarvis Collegiate. The declining popularity of Gilbert
and Sullivan together with the excessive costs of costumes
rented from Malibars and the rising prominence of instrumental
music spelled the end for the annual extravaganza. At the peak of
its success, the operetta involved more than 200 students, filled
the auditorium every night for a week of performances, and
raised $2,500. a year for various school expenses such as
academic awards and the memorial organ. Many years later
alumni still speak of Jack Overholt and Jim Davies with deep
sentiment and admiration.
The greatest impetus to drama during the decade was
provided in 1962 by Duncan Green who introduced experimental
"team teaching" to grade 11. Under this program students
attended two large group sessions a week in the auditorium,
where they watched their colleagues perform excerpts from a
play or listened to a lecturer.
During that week they also attended two small group
sessions and three regular classroom periods.
169

170
A scene from The Gondoliers, the first Jarvis operetta to be directed by James Davies.

The experiment began with each class performing
two scenes from Henry
one
V
or
which were later discussed
smaller group seminars.
in the
The team teaching method was
used in the spring of 1963
also
for the study of The Skin of Our
The results of a questionnaire
Teeth.
given to grade 11 students
conclusion of the
at the
program's first year demonstrated
advantages of the
the
experiment. Of the 165 participants,
gained the experience
150
of performing on stage before
audience; discussion an
focused on the theatrical as well as
literary point of view;
the
there was more opportunity for involvement
and enjoyment; and apathetic students became more
responsive. The disadvantages also became apparent: students
disliked the lecture method; they were confused by a variety of
viewpoints from a variety of teachers; and the manipulation of the
timetable to facilitate the program created problems. Nonetheless,
in their final assessment 92 per cent of the students favoured
team teaching. Consequently, the program was extended to
some history classes as well as to grade 12 English.
A continuing enthusiasm for drama resulted in performances
in the auditorium of Our Town and Romeo and Juliet by
grade 11 students. Grade 12 entered the experiment with scenes
from Macbeth in 1964. The following year a bright, dynamic
Ronald Glasberg, wrote and presented Exposé J.C.I., a parody
on the teachers and the times. So successful was the venture
($56.00 was collected for the Red Cross), that the author
collaborated with his sister, Rhoda, and English master, Robert
Boisvert, to write a musical satire on Macbeth called Mac the
Knife. For two evenings in the spring of 1966 laughter burst from
the "aud." as students, parents and teachers displayed their
pleasure in the witty, slapstick humour.
By 1967, experience and ingenuity had produced
elaborate props, costumes, make-up and special effects. Every
performance, and particularly the one scheduled for the Open
House on March 11th, attracted proud parents and guests of the
Board of Education. The attraction that evening was a
performance of the witches scene (Act IV, Sc. I) from Macbeth
by a grade 12 English class. Ross Poole's special effects were
extensive. Strobe lightning flashes from one side of the
auditorium were promptly followed by a rattle (not rumble) of
thunder from the worn-out speakers on the same side of the hall
as dry ice in a fragile, but fireproofed cauldron spewed forth
waves of mist into the blue footlights. Nearby, a salmon tin sat
ready to explode its cargo of gunpowder to cloak the witches
disappearance. The performance concluded without a hitch.
After the final curtain call the gowns and embarrassing
tights were tossed over the nearest prop, the power unit for the
memorial organ. In the process the unit's air vent was covered.
Later that evening, a teacher tidying up backstage noticed an
electrical plug several inches from a socket. He assumed his
"players" had kicked it out, so he plugged it in. Unwittingly, he
had turned on the power unit. The resultant heat which would
normally have escaped via the air vent, accumulated until it
exploded two days later triggering a two-alarm fire. The blaze
was confined to the stage area which suffered $8,000 damage. *28
The fire and ensuing timetable complications may have
brought an end to the gratifying productions of team teaching,
but they did not halt dramatic activity altogether. Another
Glasberg-Boisvert creation, a spoof on Hamlet entitled Omelet,
had begun rehearsing a few weeks prior to the auditorium's
misfortune. Momentarily all appeared in vain; but, with youthful
optimism and a belief that "the show must go on", the players
borrowed the assembly hall at Castle Frank High School. Again,
large audiences delighted in zesty songs and topical dialogue. For
most of the cast it was their final appearance before a J.C.I.
audience, but for Marc Jordan and Chris Ward it marked the
beginning of their careers as successful recording artists. Musical
productions were not renewed at Jarvis until 1971 when Joan
Leadbeater introduced The Red, White and Blue Revue.
The music program of the 1960's exhibited the varied
talents of both students and teachers. Don Galbraith, who
formed the Concert Band in 1960, was replaced as its conductor
the following year by Ron Chandler. The new director wasted
little time in providing more opportunities for instrumental
musicians. Within a year he started three new groups from the
forty-five pupils in the Concert Band. A fourteen-member dance
band played at numerous tea dances saving the Student Council
considerable expense. Entertaining during lunch periods and at
football games was a popular octet called the Crazy 8's. The four
girls who comprised the French Horn Quartet attracted much
attention for their quickly acquired skills as they had only been
introduced to their instruments upon Mr. Chandler's arrival.
In March, 1961, parents were treated to Music Night, an
evening's entertainment which has become an annual tradition.
171

172
The Junior T.S.S.A.A. Basketball Champions, 1960: Third row, left to right: Rowland Naujoks, David Lewis,
Gary Prouk, Raymond Seto. David Pringle, Jack Dies (coach), "Buzz" Smith.
Second row: Bob Bagby, William Gibson. First row: Gordon Chong, Brian Millan, Michael Sanderson. Alan
Kamitakahara, John Bramanis.

Before Mr. Chandler's departure to the University of
Toronto in 1967, the popular conductor took the seventymember
Senior Band to Expo '67 where it performed on
Bandshell "B" situated between the French and British pavilions.
A year later the newest member of the music staff, Eldon
Lehman, accompanied the band back to Montreal to perform at
Man and His World.
Despite the suspension of the Glee Club in 1960, many
students continued to display an active interest in vocal music. In
the late fifties Clyde Duder, Tony Galasso, Fred Donaldson and
Barrie Smith formed a vocal quartet known as the "Jaycees".
Thomas Murray established "The Folk Singers", who entertained
at assemblies until 1964. The revitalization of the vocal
music program was the accomplishment of David Low, who
joined the staff in 1968. Within a year the choir had obtained new
uniforms, more members, and a sophisticated repertoire.
Athletic activities also improved in quality and quantity
during the decade. The Juniors, coached by Jack Dies, were in
the league finals in 1960. After losing to Riverdale in the opener of
the home-and-home playoff, Jarvis found itself down by fourteen
points at the end of the first quarter of the second game. But a
second-half rally plus thirteen points by David Lewis and ten
more from Raymond Seto, were sufficient for Jarvis to win the
T.S.S.A.A. Junior Championship 61-60! *30 The Juniors again
won the title in 1963 when they were coached by Mr. Connelly.
With a starting line-up of George Ampeff, Egons Pilskalnietis,
Steven Ashikawa, Rubin Friedman and David Wood, they lost
the first game of the finals to North Toronto by eight points, but
regained their composure in the second for a 63-41 victory. *31
One of the best recruits for the 1961 Senior Football Team
was coach Tom Watt, who had joined the J.C.I. Physical
Education Department in 1959. The addition of Al Hillmer to the
backfield and his twin brother, Eric, to the line was another
blessed bonus. Although Jarvis Collegiate had not won a Senior
T.S.S.A.A. Football Championship since 1934, it had convincingly
earned the right to play Humberside in the final at Varsity
Stadium on a frigid November 8, 1961. At the end of the first half
the opposition led 13-8; yet John Michaluk recalled a feeling of
optimism among the players. "They [Humberside] were really
strong, but we felt they were weakening . I believe we gambled
on third down twelve times and made it all but once." J.C.I.
dominated the second half and won the title 21-13 on
touchdowns by Brian Millan, Bob Bagby, and Al Hillmer. *32
Today Tom Watt asserts: "Winning the Senior Football
Championship after twenty-seven years is still a great coaching
thrill for me, and maybe the biggest." He resigned in 1964 to
become assistant professor at the University of Toronto's School
of Physical Education, coach of the Varsity Blues Hockey Team
and a freelance broadcaster.
The Swim Team also won its share of awards beginning in
1963 when an outstanding performance by Gordon Porter gave
J.C.I. the Bantam T.S.S.A.A. title. *33 A year later he was
awarded The Globe and Mail trophy as the Junior Swimming
Champion. The Seniors also won their league title thanks to
Douglas Bishop's three victories. Twelve Jarvis qualifiers later
took part in the provincial championships in London where
Bishop set a new Ontario record placing J.C.I. third in the overall
standings.
An interest in gymnastics prompted Tom Watt to
establish and coach a Gymnastics Team in 1961. Although each
of the twenty-five boys was required to learn six routines and
practise nightly, the time and effort had its reward. In 1961 the
school won the Novice T.S.S.A.A. Gymnastics Championship
and two years later the Senior Team won the city title. The
greatest overall achievement came in 1964 when the Juniors and
Seniors won their league championships, Kerry Hornsby
received the Best Junior Individual Award, and Ken Lumb was
selected Best Senior Individual. In his freshman year at university
Lumb also won the Intercollegiate Gymnastics Championship.
*35
173

174
The staff of Jarvis Collegiate Institute, 1965-66: Left side, Third row, left to right: A. MacRae, L. Diachun, G. Stephen,
R. Boisvert, W. Thachuk, M. Thomson, G, Thornton, E. Hill, D. Mathies, W. Derry, L. Stewart.
Second row: J. Davies, C. Gobaris, J. MacAlpine, L. Emond, D. Blackwood. D. Gracey, G. Stevens, E. Evans, N. Salter,
C. Fodé, A. Lane.
First row: M, Czerny, P. Sweetman, S. Denis, S. Murphy, W. Oglesby, A. Lackey, J. Moore, W. Cebrynski, R, Haist.

Right Side, Third row, left to right: J. Humphries, J. Biernat, R. Crawford. A. Johnston, R. French. W. Wilson, D. Clark.
R. McLean, W. MacKenzie, J. Heron.
Second row: S. McRobert, I. Akmens, J. Beggs, E. Webster, R. Chandler, R. Payne, H. Medland, J. Michaluk, M. Pearl.
First row: M. Jewell, F. Wiles, D. Bennett, M. Elton, M. Stanford, D. Elliott, E. Goss, R. Traill. C. Taylor.
175

A unique event in Jarvis Collegiate's history took place at
the Albany Club in May, 1960, when approximately twenty-five
gentlemen gathered for the first reunion of John Wanless
Optimus Trophy Winners. Co-chairmen, Alex Edmison, Harry
Edmison and John Munro explained the purpose of their
meeting:
It is felt that this occasion will give us an opportunity
to relive old memories, to express appreciation of
teachers living and dead, and to reaffirm our loyalty
to Jarvis Collegiate Institute, which since 1807 has
been making a significant contribution to education
in Canada.*36
A record of the festivities was later sent to the ninety-six-year-old
ex-principal, John Jeffries.
As odd as it seems in retrospect, initial attempts to
integrate the two lunchrooms in 1957 met with student
resistance, forcing the principal to restore segregation of the
sexes. In the spring of 1964 the question of integration again
arose in Student Council. Finally, after months of debate,
representatives voted in favour of integration by a "solid
majority". That last bastion of male supremacy did not surrender
easily. Nelson Smith sighed, "It took about a year for the idea to
receive general acceptance ... When I first went into the girls'
lunchroom, I felt as if everyone was watching."
Among the graduates of 1967 was Student Council
president, Douglas Lorriman, who designed Toronto's first solarheated
home. Another alumnus of the 1960's, Wayne Skinner,
donated five trophies to the Boys' Athletic Association and
returns every year to present these awards at the B.A.A.
banquet. Two members of the 1960-61 Science Club executive
also contributed to the future of J.C.I. Its president, Harold
Wright, and vice-president, Inese Akmens, are currently
teaching science at their alma mater.
The exodus of experienced masters to suburbia ceased
just prior to Mr. Jewell's retirement. In 1960 Graham Warren, the
humorous coach and mathematics instructor, moved to North
York where a junior high school was named in his honour. He
was followed by English master John Coombs, a twenty-one year
veteran destined for Central Tech.; and by Clarence "Moose"
McNair, who had been at J.C.I. since 1944 as an admired coach
and geographer. In 1962 Louise Griffith resigned
art for seventeen years in the "tower". after
knowledgeable classics instructor James
since Cook
1935
following year. An outstanding physics instructor
1950, Campbell Strachan, returned to from
Jarvis in 1959 1944t
principal. He made his second exit in 1964 to
North Toronto. In 1965 Frances Stinson, the
directress of girls' physical education, dedicate
retired after
entered the school as a student in 1918 and as a teacher in
To her credit were the many memorable 19?'
demonstrations
Varsity Arena and her work with the Girls' Precision Drill Team
There is no doubt, she made the greatest contribution to
development of girls' P.H.E. in the school's the
history. Eleanor
Sears, who became the Collegiate's first secretary in 1923
retired in 1965 after forty-two years of service. The only
staff member ever to equal that tenure was Janie Thomas.
In 1966 Minerva bid farewell to three masters whose
experience at Jarvis totalled 106 years. Ed Hill, the robust
instructor of history and physical education, frequently
to the "old school" to deliver an address which usually begrs
"During my thirty-seven years at Jarvis ." His close fried,
geographer Web Bowman, also retired that year. Gerry Allen
with thirty-four years of service, resigned to become principaiof
the Adult Education Centre. James Davies, who had beengiven
the dual responsibility of music director of the operettas
English master when he arrived in 1956, also transferred from
J.C.I. that year. Together, the three grand ladies of the fourth
floor retired in 1967 marking the end of an era: Dorothy Eliott
had been a member of the French Department since 1939
Elizabeth Goss, the librarian, had joined the staff in 1954; and
Sarah McRobert had taught mathematics for thirty-six years
Chemistry master and vice-principal Ralph Haist was promoted
to the principalship of Lawrence Park in 1969. During Mr.
Jewell's illness he had made significant contributions to the
redesign of the school prior to its renovation.
By 1967 the building which had been described forty•three
years earlier as a "palace" and "temple" was too small n
inadequate. Of the eight portables two were used as band rooms
Lunch tables had to be placed in the corridors for studentsw\a
could find space in neither of the lunchrooms. The tiny librar;
had to double-stack most of its material. Pushing coziness
176

The original Jarvis swimming pool was the first of its kind in Toronto. It was recently converted into a theatre art: room.
extreme, all grade 9's had to share lockers and counsellors held
interviews in storage closets. From 1964 to 1967 the Collegiate
suffered a 57 per cent turnover in staff, particularly in 1967 when
students welcomed twenty-two new teachers. The school's most
obvious relic, the pool, was frequently referred to as "cockroach
caverns". The Globe and Mail cited another problem:
The existing pool is 50 feet long and 20 feet wide.
The deepest point of the pool is 7 feet, 6 inches ...
Not only could a diver hit his head on the bottom of
the pool, but he could hit it on a beam 8 feet above
the diving board. The ceiling is 9 feet above the
board. In addition, too many boys use the pool at
one time — about 50 to a class.
177

Student Council president, Douglas Lorriman, described the
general attitude towards the spent and inadequate facilities:
The school doesn't inspire learning but you
grow to accept it. It's part of the life you have to put
up with here. I don't think we are being deprived as
to what we learn, but we are as far as facilities go.
38
In November, 1966, the Board of Education approved a
$2,500,000 addition
the
and renovation which necessitated
expropriation of a three-storey apartment building to the east.
The new addition was to contain three standard classrooms, two
team teaching rooms, two music rooms, a physics laboratory, a
cafeteria, a girls' gymnasium and playing field. Included in the
renovations were the conversion of the existing girls' gymnasium
into a library, and the rebuilding of the kitchen and lunchrooms
into five classrooms. A newspaper article outlining these
changes, stated that:
The addition will total about 62,000 square feet and
permit an added design enrolment of 350. Enrolment
at Jarvis this year is 1,250, although the
present building was designed to hold 1,050.
The playing field will enable the Jarvis
football team to practise without taking a bus to
Rosedale Park, about two miles away.
Even after the expropriation, the four-acre
Jarvis site will be of postage stamp proportions
compared to those of most other Metro secondary
schools. Two recently-completed secondary
schools of similar enrolment have sites of 25 acres
(Northvieu.' Heights Collegiate Institute, North
York) and 17 acres (West Humber Secondary
School, Etobicoke). The Toronto board faces
prohibitive land costs, up to $500,000 an acre.*39
As expected, a heated debate developed when the Board
vetoed a motion to build a new pool at a cost of $350 000,
approving instead, the spending of $198,000 to renovate the
existing pool. *40 The decision was reversed thanks to pressure
from the community and sympathetic trustees. *41 George
Shepherd, Olympic hurdler and outspoken head of Boys'
Physical Education, entered the dispute by declaring trustees to
be "nuts!" *42 When called before the Board to explain his
comment, Shepherd was advised by trustee Barry Lowes, "You
don't answer anything until I tell you, and I'll tell you what to
answer or they'll hang you." The drawings for the new pool
redesigned old pool were examined, after which the
anda
matter
to a vote: "All in favour of the new pool? ... Carried. Thanks for
coming down Mr. Shepherd."
The head of Boys' P.H.E. later concluded, "I believe they
were going to pass it anyway I can't really take credit for the
new pool."
The doomed "bird bath" was to be filled in, but Mr. Haist
convinced trustees that the space could be used best as a theatre
arts room for the new English option. The old Pool's dressing
room was converted into two small classrooms for new.
Canadians learning English.
The addition was not completed until 1971. For Mr. Jewell
this was a disappointment, "I knew that I had to get out of (Jarvis]
in 1969, and I wanted it before I left. " Any disenchantment hemay
have suffered, however, was more than offset by the numerous
tributes paid to him on his retirement. A portrait presentation in
the auditorium on May 28th preceded the farewell assembly on
May 30th, at which Ann Toffolo expressed her respect:
We meet to honour one man, our principal, to mark
his retirement ... He was born a few months after
the Wright Brothers made their first flight ... He
retires a few weeks before the first man sets foot on
the moon ... In his seventeen years at Jarvis, Mr.
Jewell has shown flexibility and great warmth, a real
concern for his students and a genuine desire that
his students and school prosper. *43
The principal's response contained a final "Jewell's rule":
We have to do something about the lack of
ventilation in school in hot weather. I have a very
neat pair of Bermuda shorts at home and I have
knee stockings to go with them. I would like to wear
them to school and obey the rules under certain
guidelines ... During June, let's try an experiment.
Let's let the boys, if they wish, wear Bermuda
shorts and knee stockings — try it. That applies to
the principal and teachers. It does not include girls.
(boys cheer) We'll let you carry on with
(laughter).
178

At the Milton Jewell Retirement Assembly Ann Toffolo remarked, "Mr. Jewell was born a few months after
the Wright Brothers made their first flight...He retires a few weeks before the first man sets foot on the moon. '
Courtesy: Milton H. Jewell.
179

Mr. Jewell never completed that final sentence. The
laughter resulted fronl the principal's reluctance to describe the
currently fashionable mini-skirts. On the following schoolday, he
and vice-principal Carscallen both wore shorts and knee socks.
As the assembly ended, seventeen students said goodbye
to the wise diplomat in their native languages of Arabic,
Assyrian, Bulgarian, Chinese, Czech, Dutch, Estonian, Finnish,
French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Latvian
and Spanish. Ann Toffolo concluded,
All translated means, "Thank you, Mr. Jewell, for
everything you have done for Jarvis and for us, and
may your future be long and happy.
1 Douglas Carscallen.
2 Record. Optimus Trophy Winners' Reunion (1960).
3 "Fletcher Staples, 90 was Church Elder, Taught for 68 Years," The Toronto
Star (Mar. 10, 1976).
4 Agnew, Paul, "The Investiture of Mr. LG. McKerracher," The Magnet
(1954).
5 Douglas Carscallen.
6 "Special Class at Jarvis Aids Newcomers in English," The Globe and Mail
(Mar. 10, 1953).
7 "Double Glaze Jarvis School Bar Road Noise," The Toronto Star (June 23,
1957).
8 Capri, Anton, "Our Pipe Band Goes to Banff', The Magnet (1955), and Ian
Fraser and Arthur Jewell.
9 "Crime Not to Do Best to Help UN: Pearson," The Globe and Mail (Mar. 26,
1953).
10 The Toronto Star (Mar. 25, 1953).
11 The Girls' Precision Squad was formed in 1953, two years prior to the
organization of the Bren Gun Squad.
12 "Jarvis Pupils in Mikado," The Telegram (Mar. 3, 1955).
13 Ted Stubbs.
14 Stubbs, E., "Jack D. Overholt," The Magnet (1957).
15 Waring, E, "Jarvis Wins Hockey Trophy," TheGIobe& Mail (Mar. 2, 1957).
16 MacDonald, John, "Good Defence Gives Jarvis Hockey and Cage Titles
Best Showing in 150 Years," The Toronto Star (Mar. 4, 1957). Pepper,
Gordon, "Two Titles in Two Days as Jarvis Ends Famine," The Telegram
(Mar. 4, 1957).
17 "Once One•Room School Jarvis Has Biggest Gym," The Telegram (Nov.
29, 1955).
18 Somerville. Marc, "The World Affairs Club," The Magnet (1958).
January students from forty Toronto high schools gat hered in the provinQl
parliament buildings as delegates from the forty member nations of the U N
to debate four pre-arranged topics.
19 8'Pacifist' Campbell to Picket Collegiate," The Toronto Star (Apr, 3, 1962).
20 The Toronto Star (Mar. 21, 1964).
21 "Ban Cadet Corps, Students Demand," The Toronto Star (Apr. 4, 1961).
22 Ibid.
23 'Pacifist' Campbell to Picket Collegiate," The Toronto Star (Apr. 3, 1962).
Army Comes Under Fire," The
24 "Metro's
Toronto Star
(Apr. 22, 1964).
25 Jarvis Collegiate Institute Archives.
26 Vlade Ampeff.
27 Green, Duncan, "A Team Teaching Program in English," School Progress
(Oct. 1963).
28 "$8,000 Fire Hits Jarvis C.I.," The Toronto Star (Mar. 14, 1967).
29 "Jarvis C.I. Students Like Sound of Music," The Globe and Mail (Jan. 27,
1962).
30 "Jarvis Juniors Capture Title," The Globe and Mail (Feb. 29, 1960).
31 The Magnet (198).
32 "Jarvis, Riverdale Capture T.S.S.A.A. Football Titles," The Globe andMail
(Nov. 9, 1961).
"'Maverick' Watt Gambles for T.S.S.A.A. Title," The Telegram (Nov. 9,
1961).
33 "Porter Van Ryn Shatter Records," The Toronto Star (Mar. 4, 1963).
34 "North Toronto, Jarvis Win Swimming Titles," The Globe and Mail (Feb.
29, 1964).
35 Tom Watt.
36 Programme and Record, First Reunion of Optimus Trophy Winners, (1923.
1960) (May 4, 1960).
37 "Left Behind in the Rush to Suburbia," The Globe and Mail (Nov. 10, 1966).
38 Ibid.
39 "Expropriation to Add Jarvis Playing Field," The Globe and Mail (Nov. 26,
1966).
40 "$198,999 Voted to Renovate Jarvis Pool," The Globe and Mail (Oct. 7,
1966).
41 Ralph Haist.
42 "Left Behind in the Rush to Suburbia," The Globe and Mail (Nov. 10, 1966).
43 Record, Farewell Assembly for Mr. Jewell (May 30, 1969).
44 Ibid.
45 Record, Farewell Assembly for Mr. Jewell (May 30, 1969).
180

CHAPTER 15
When Eric McCann departed from J.C.I. in June, 1964,
after serving as vice-principal for six months, he left behind
disciplined, short-haired, conforming students. When he
returned as the school's principal in 1969, he beheld impetuous,
long-haired non-conformists who preferred to resist the
establishment and "do their own thing". The general apathy
resulted in the following notice being placed on the gym bulletin
board in 1973: "All interform cancelled due to lack of interest."
Predictably enough, the pendulum soon reversed its
direction. As one student explained, "It is now 'in' to be anti-antiestablishment."
By the mid-seventies innocuous novelties such
as frisbees and skateboards competed for attention with the
more outlandish fad of "streaking". The latter resulted in a wellorganized
escapade in which "pledges for charity" were obtained
from secret donors. Then, as rumoured, at noon hour on a cold
spring day, three boys clad only in goose-bumps and running
shoes scampered through the cafeteria midst cheers and jeers
from the multitude.
Renovations and the construction of the new wing were
completed in 1971 just two years before the Collegiate welcomed
a record high attendance of 1,550 pupils. While declining
enrolment soon provided relief from the crowded classrooms, it
also resulted in eight teachers ultimately being "bumped" to
other schools in 1978.
On November 26, 1974, Mr. McCann, who was about to
retire, called the entire staff into the auditorium and announced,
"Your new principal as of January, 1975, will be Miss Ann
Shilton." For the first time in history Jarvis Collegiate Institute
would have a headmistress. The teachers greeted the news with
a noncommital silence, but for Miss Shilton, a graduate of J.C.I.,
former president of the G.A.C. and winner of the Girls'
Centenary Athletic Award, such was not the case: "I was
tremendously excited because, to me, Jarvis has always been the
school." On the other hand, she viewed her position as successor
to eighteen male principals nonchalantly. "I am probably too
indifferent to the fact that I am the first woman in this office for the
liking of women's lib, but that is due to my own background. I
grew up in a family with three boys and a girl. No distinction was
made about expectations for any of them. I never gave it much
thought. "
Former vice-principal, Eric McCann, returned to serve as principal for
five years beginning in 1969.
Photo: Fallis Stafford.
181

182
After much debate, the Board approved a motion to build the new pool at a cost of $350,000
Photo: Steven Jew.

A former president of the G.A.C. and winner of the Girls' Centenary Athletic Award, Ann Shilton succeeded eighteen men
to become principal of Jarvis in 1975.
Photo: Eugene Gattinger.
183

In less than a year Miss Shilton found herself presiding
over an empty school as teachers went on strike for the first time
in the Collegiate's history. The following factual account of that
emotional event was published in the 1976 Magnet,
Usually, one year at Jarvis is not much different
from another. However, this year, we received an
unexpected surprise!
On Wednesday, November 12, Metro's 8,500
secondary teachers went on strike. Toronto's
140,000 students, including 1,561 Jarvisites, were
out of school for a total of 38 teaching days. This
amounted to a continuous stretch of 68 days
without classes, because the strike ran on through
all of the normal Christmas vacation period
Jarvis teachers picketed the school during school
hours and again in the evening, during rush hours.
Except for the normal vacation period, picketing
continued even in the coldest weather. Some
teachers were so muffled up that they seemed to be
in hiding!
From time to time, a few Jarvis students picketed
with the striking teachers and others took the
opportunity of getting to know them better by just
walking up and down the sidewalk with them.
Some lucky students found jobs, others continued
school work, but most settled back to enjoy the
novelty of the holiday.
At first, there was a great deal of student activity in
and around the school. Students came to use the
library, to finish research work, or to consider ways
of continuing some form of formal learning activity.
Others came simply to talk about the unique
situation in which they were placed.
However, as time wore on, the gravity of the strike
became evident as negotiators failed to reach
agreement. The Anti-Inflation Board ruled that
even the School Board's offer was too high. The
mediators were unable to reach an agreement with
either side. Gradually, students realized that they
were in for a long strike and that they could be in for
more than a few extra nights' homework.
A very few students were able to enter schools
areas where their parents had cottages in
and several
others entered private schools. But for 99%, it
"wait and hope".
was
So many a sigh of relief went up when the Provincial
Government passed legislation on January 16
ending the strike. Jarvis teachers returned to
school on Monday, January 19, "under protest"
Because of the strike, exams usually held in
December were held in April. Spring term was
extended to June, with optional exams held at the
end of the month.
Most people involved and affected by the strike
have gained more insight into the feelings and
attitudes of teachers, trustees and parents than
could be found in any textbook.
But it is to be hoped that this strike will be Toronto's
last one and that, in the future, our teachers and the
School Board will be able to reach an amicable
agreement in a spirit of compromise.
It is not likely that things will ever return to
"normal" again, but then any history student will tell
you that "normal" is never "normal" for very long,
historically speaking. So let us hope that, in the long
run, we can say that we gained more than we lost.
Let us hope. *1
Boys' and girls' athletics were regenerated slowly
following the strike. In the Toronto Secondary School Women's
Athletic Association (T.S.S.W.A.A.), Jarvis gymnasts won the
Junior and Senior Championships as they had done in 1973 and
would again in 1977. The Seniors also won the city title in 1974
and 1975. *2 The Girls' Cross-Country Team encouraged bythe
enthusiasm of its new coach, Mrs. Stark, won the T.S.S.W.A.A
Invitational Meet in 1977, and the city championship in 1978.
The scene of the most successful competitions for boys'
athletics during the present decade has been on the tennis court,
In 1971, 1972, 1975, 1976, and 1977 Jarvis won the T.S.S.AA,
championships. In 1976 Henry Cole and Chris Berns carriedon
to win the Ontario Doubles title. The feat was repeated the
184

following year by Kyle Langill and Ross McMaster. Two other
pupils also gained recognition for their racquet ability in 1974. At
the Canadian National Junior Badminton Championships Tom
Muir won the men's singles and mixed doubles while his brother,
James (plus partner), won the men's doubles. In 1976 the Cross-
Country Team won the Senior and Overall T.S.S.A.A. titles.
More recently, a successful recruitment campaign by coach
Ralph Mutton increased the Swim Team from twelve to an
impressive sixty members, who went on to win the 1978 Bantam,
Junior and Overall T.S.S.A.A. championships.
Although academic competitions are not numerous, the
University of Waterloo's Junior and Senior Math Contests reveal
a consistently high calibre of mathematical talent at J.C.I. In the
past eight years Jarvis had led the Toronto Region Junior Math
Contest on three occasions. In 1978 J.C.I. placed first among the
Toronto public schools and twenty-second out of 520 competing
schools in Ontario.
A recent highlight in the history of Jarvis Collegiate was
the visit of Governor-General Jules Léger in November, 1976, in
which his Excellency presented students with Water Safety
Certificates. Another highlight for twenty fortunate students was
a three-week tour of the Republic of China in 1977. Preparation
for the journey, which was organized by Don Sutherland,
required the raising of $10,000 in appeals and garage sales.
In 1977 "The Towel Laundry Press" began printing the
Jasieye, a student newspaper co-edited by Stratton Bull and
Stephen Lautens. Its seven issues, which contained topical
editorials, advertisements, sketches and letters to the editor,
were distributed during lunch hour in the cafeteria for ten cents a
copy. The journal proved to be a great success and still enjoys a
wide circulation.
•EL COME
BACK
YOU'RE
STILL THE
BEST
A bedsheet sign made by Patricia Orr welcomed teachers back to their classes following an emotional two-month strike.
Courtesy: The Globe and Mail, Toronto.
185

186
Girls' Cross-Country Team, 1977: Third row, left to right: N. Valois, C. Crowe, P. Brooke, K. Barber, K. Egan, A. Nurmse,
K. Thomas, B. Brooke, H. Irwin, Mrs. Stark (coach). Second row: C. Jones, J. Palmer, L. Labonte-Smith, D. Aarons, A. Williams,
A. Lowe, B. Ho, J. Thomas, M. Cluett, P. Eagles, A. Block. First row: Y. Chu, C. RendaII-Green, S.Thomas, D.Pappas, P. Egan,
C. Wood, K. O'Neal, S. Smith.

Boys' Swim Team, 1978: Fourth row, left to right: M. Somers, B. Miller, B. Pedret, S. Sutherland. J. Hinds, M. Hughes, P. Freeman, N. Walker, M. Rowe,
K. Perkins, F. Calabrese, J. Kehm, S. Clarry, K. Dummett. Third row: G. Guy, M. Fleming, T. Fleguel, R. Silks, Mr.Mutton (coach), J. Wong. J. Robertson,
A. Lookin, V. Gilroy, R. Howard, E. Greaves. Second row: C. Merry, M. Crawford, R. Kong, E. Or, C. Oliver, l. MacIntyre, J. Taylor, M. Rogers, E.
Comor, B. Stringer, R. Egan. First row: P. Shaw, K. Allen, G. Taylor, C. Kilpatrick, M. Raff, P. Hadley, J. Mutrie, G. Ales, R. Choo, D. Hethrington,
B. Southgate, F. Gray.
Photo: Tom Bereiter.
187

Jarvis Mosaic, a dinner and program presented in 1978 by
students of E.S.L. (English as a Second Language) for their
parents and friends reflected the school's variety of ethnic and
cultural backgrounds. Among its 1,410 students were sixty-six
from the U.S.A., fifty-nine from Hong Kong, fifty-one from
Britain, forty-four from the West Indies and twenty-six from
Central and South America. *3
The first annual Winter Carnival was a well-attended,
festive afternoon of food and fun. Indoors, participants could play
powder puff football, eat Mr. Carter's waffles, relax on the
psychiatrist's couch or be enticed into the massage parlour.
Outdoors, the principal lost the toboggan race, and the French
Department's snow sculpture, "La Grenouille Cannibale" (The
Cannibal Frog) was victorious over its arch rival, the History
Department's bulldog.
In June, 1977, more than 300 ex-pupils attended
"Nostalgia Night" at Casa Loma which was organized by Dan
Foster, Pat McCarthy, Lance MacIntosh and Dan Scott. A year
later, at another reunion arranged by Frank Holmes and Gary
Koverko, more than 400 graduates of the seventies crowded into
the Harmonie Club to rekindle friendships and to share baby
pictures. At present the alumni is planning a grand homecoming
for 1982 when Jarvis Collegiate Institute will celebrate its 175th
anniversary. It is hoped and expected that thousands will attend
to relive happy memories and to recognize the value of being a
Jarvis "old boy" or "old girl".
For 172 years Jarvis has been an integral part of Toronto's
history. One can only speculate on what significant contribution
the school will make to the city's future, but one can be certain
that Minerva is proud of her past, and that Jarvisites can be
proud of their heritage.
The winner of the first Winter Carnival's snow sculpturing contest was
the French Department's "La Grenouille Cannibale (the Cannibal
Frog).
Photo: John Humphries.
Nil decet invita Minerva
1 The Magnet (1976).
2 "Jarvis Girls Score Gym Sweep," The Toronto Star (Apr. 12, 1973).
3 "Teens Study Themselves — and Like the Results," The Toronto Star
(Nov. 1, 1978).
188

The John Wanless Optimus Trophy.
Appendix A
JOHN WANLESS OPTIMUS
TROPHY WINNERS
Awarded for Scholarship Moral
Influence and Leadership
1923 J. Alex Edmison
1924 Harry R. Hunt
1925 Louis Carroll
1926 Constance Shiell
1927 Omond M. Solandt
1928 Harry H. Edmison
1929 Edwin H. Heeney
1930 William R. Feasby
1931 William Pearson
1932 Donald P. Scott
1933 John Munro
1934 Alan Staples
1935 David Scott
1936 Rodney Scrivener
1937 William Staples
1938 Cameron Cody
1939 Edward Sawyer
1940 Paul Hammond
1941 William Wade
1942 Ross Davidson
1943 Edward Teghtsoonian
1944 Peter Turnbull
1945 James Frank, David Philpott
1946 Arthur Ghent, Gary Hanes
1947 James Watt
1948 Peter Westwood
1949 Edgar File
1950 David Stewart
1951 Terry Kameoka
1952 John McClelland
1953 Alvin Hamielec
1954 Anthony Grey
1955 Jon Wilkins
1956 Gerald Wong
1957 Christopher Parsons
1958 Eero Pyykkonen
1959 Murray Goronovich
1960 Gary Grant
1961 Harold Wright
1962 Gordon Chong
1963 Lawrence Haist
1964 Steven Ashikawa
1965 Matti Ingerman
1966 John Edmison
1967 Ronald Glasberg
1968 George Hewson
1969 Paul Joe
1970 Richard Whitebread
1971 Ronald Ohtake
1972 Anthony Chu
1973 Masahiro Kawaji
1974 Henry Eng, Keith Richardson
1975 Thomas Suddon
1976 Ernest Belyea
1977 Hubert Eng
1978 Alan Wallace
1979 Christopher McMullen
189

Appendix B
JEAN ALLIN MEMORIAL
OPTIMA TROPHY WINNERS
Awarded for Personality, Scholarship
and Leadership
The Jean Allin Memorial Optima Trophy.
1931
1932
1933
1934
1935
1936
1937
1938
1939
1940
1941
1942
1943
1944
1945
1946
1947
1948
1949
1950
1951
1952
1953
1954
1955
Doris Traill
Audrey Irwin
Helen Pearson
Mary Traill
Nancy Burton
Louise Parker
Julia Wright
Barbara Ager
Doreen McCann
Marion Staples
Nancy Robinson
Helen Daruzak
Rosemary Buckham
Barbara Shield
Peggy Russell
Gloria Thompson
Margaret Hudson
Mary Hill
Elizabeth Wade
Shirley Taylor
Barbara Burnett
Aileen Porter
Jennifer Grube
Helen Steele
Jean Mirka
1956
1957
1958
1959
1960
1961
1962
1963
1964
1965
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
Sheila Eggertson
Inara Grava
Ikuko Kamitakahara
Margaret Arima
Atsuko Kamitakahara
Mary Robertson
Marianne Tovell
Clare Chu
Taida Ibergs
Joan Robertson
Kasia Seydegart
Jane Hague
Karen Kennedy
Arlene Lumb
Louise Brown
Robin Bennett
Janet Lumb
Catherine Lepper
Carol Seljak
Shelley Brooks
Mira ACS
Lily Lau
Yee Ling Chu
Susan Hadley
190

Appendix C
MAGNET EDITORS
1924 Harry R. Hunt
1925 Louis H. Carroll
1926 Roy C. Burness
1927 Lester G. Bowles
1928 Herman Haas
1929 Harry Edmison
1930 William Feasby
1931 James Baker
1932 Ernest L. Owram
1933 Frederick Branscombe
1934 Alan Staples
1935 G. David Scott
1936 Allan Naylor
1937 Roy Munro
1939 James Smith
1940 Paul Hammond
1941 Robert Bell & Marion Gray
1942 Joan Cowan & Ken Wilkins
1943 Edward Teghtsoonian & Glen Day
1944 Robert VanderFlier
1945 Peggy Russell
1946 Gloria Thompson & George Atanasoff
1947 Mary Waugh & Philip Creighton
1948 Peter Westwood
1949 Lawler Loudon
1950 Barbara Burnett & Albert Wilson
1951 Beverley Finland & Harvey Cowan
1952 Wallace Russell
1953
1954
1955
1956
1957
1958
1959
1960
1961
1962
1963
1964
1965
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
Robert Forward
John Forsyth
Michael Cavanagh
Mary Campbell
Wayne Weston & Joan Harman
Fred Swinney
Susan Joel
Beccy Frank
Shirley Kato
Michael Wharton & Richard Osolen
Clare Chu
Joan Robertson
Matti Ingerman
Irene Homatidis
Ronald Glasberg
Douglas Poole
John Shaw-Rimmington
Craig Kennedy
Greg Frith
Judy Wolfe
Paula Sears
Jim Clark
Zoran Cvetichanin
Sue McCallum
Tyler McMurren
Gordy Stefulic
Janet McCallum
191

ALO
po•v
"ADO
Appendix D
BOYS' CENTENARY ATHLETIC
AWARD WINNERS
1907 L. Austin Wright
1908 Charles E. petch
1909 Ossian G. Lye
1910 Kenneth C. Burness
1911 Frederick S. Mills
1912 Robert F. Davidson
1913 Eugene J. Dopp
1914 Clarence Mackenzie
1915
Harold Urquhart
Gordon Duncan
1916 Alex Duncan
1917 Lawrence Wallace
1918 Wilfred Everist
1919 Arthur G. Smith
1920 Robert T eagle
1921 Lester Polack
1922 Gerald Wood
Clifford Montgomery
1923 Raphael Goldenberg
1925 Louis Carroll
1926 Donald S. Wood
1927
1928
1929
1930
1931
1932
Centenary 1933
Panel containing the names of the Boys'
Athletic Award winners. 1934
Photo: Fallis Stafford. 1935
1936
1937
1938
1939
1940
1941
1942
Richard Vaile
Gordon Blackford
William Beynon
Edwin Terry
Aubrey Hagerman
Arthur Upper
George Comper
Ford Auburn
Ronald Darbyshire
Douglas S. Turner
John Hogan
Harry Smith
James Youens
Roy McCord
Arthur Campbell
Robert Moore
Robert C. Jefferies
1943
1944
1945
1946
1947
1948
1949
1950
1951
1952
1953
1954
1955
1956
1957
1958
1959
1960
1961
1962
1963
1964
1965
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
James Neil
Joseph Jeffs
Grant Duff
John Henry
William E. Gall
Gerald Sutherland
Alastair Haig
Jack Sowten
Walter Woychuk
Trevor Eyton
John Tattle
John Uren
David Harvey
Barrie Smith
William Agnew
Peter Clarke
Alfred Lesser
Gary Grant
Raymond Seto
Wilfred Deschamp
John McLean
Steven Ashikawa
David Wood
Chuck Wakefield
Kerry Hornsby
David Barrett
David Tattle
Larry Laughlin
John DeMarsh
Peter Clarke
Lorne Smith
Doug Gray
Marcel Dubsky
Thomas Lewis
Ernest Belyea
David Zapparoli
Federico Maese
Trevor Reid
192

Appendix E
GIRLS' CENTENARY ATHLETIC
AWARD WINNERS
ANN
EIAVA
NA>CY
Btoaa
KEIR
JEANETTE SIMPSON
EVUYN MARK
Jr.•.N
JEAN MIRKA
m:rr
ca.ARRV
Panel containing the names of the Girls' Centenary
Athletic Award winners.
Photo: Fallis Stafford.
1923
1924
1925
1926
1928
1929
1930
1931
1932
1933
1934
1935
1936
1937
1938
1939
1940
1941
1942
1943
1944
1945
1946
1947
1948
Dorothy Ker
Willene Wallace
Frieda Saiger
Louise Polson
Helen Ball
Jane Forsyth
Eleanor Wallace
Marion Bryce
Evelyn Effnert
Evelyn Wilson
Ellen Wilson
Dorothy Thompson
Mary Willsie
Jean Moffat
Frances Smith
Dorothy Martin
Julia Wright
Bessie Lloyd
Jean Sutton
Elizabeth Bell
Agnes Cameron
Margaret McDougall
Audrey Upton
Jean Ross
Margaret Yorick
Marjory G. Smith
Ann Shilton
Frances Kent
Dixie Richards
Anne Bradshaw
Dorothy Hunt
Elgiva Corcoran
Nancy Stronach
1949
1950
1951
1952
1953
1954
1955
1956
1957
1958
1959
1960
1961
1962
1963
1964
1965
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
Bernice Rodwell
Elizabeth Keir
Jeanette Simpson
Evelyn Mark
Jean Finlayson
Jean Mirka
Kathlean Seo
Ethel Tateishi
Dawn Willson
Inta Mezgailis
Margaret Arima
Victoria Nicoloff
Jenny Shintani
Betty Nicholson
Durken Holst
Margot Belling
Barbara Tweddle
Ada Lawrence
Jane Farquharson
Trudy Arbic
Patricia Clark
Janette Stevens
Margo Hickson
Eleanor Bates
Judy Riggin
Pam Lumb
Cathy Lepper
Carol Seljak
Annie Pedret
Veronica Dolenc
Susan Clarry
Lori Mehew
Irene Murphy
193

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Institute Archives. Federation Meetings,
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194

PAMPHLETS AND PROGRAMS
Caravan Book of Verse. vol. 2, Toronto: Jarvis Collegiate Institute Poetry
Club, 1930.
Caravan Book of Verse. vol. 3, Toronto: Jarvis Collegiate Institute Poetry
Club, 1931.
Commencement Exercises,
Jarvis Collegiate Institute Archives.
Guillet, Edwin. Toronto Centennial Lectures, Toronto: 1934.
Hardy, Dr. E.A. A Sale of Pictures by Canadian Artists. Toronto: 1918.
Laying of the Corner Stone of New Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute, 1922.
Toronto: Jarvis Collegiate Institute, 1922.
Logan, Genevieve. Ours is a Goodly Heritage, 150th Anniversary Programme.
Toronto: Jarvis Collegiate Institute, 1957.
Reid, George. Jarvis Collegiate Institute Auditorium Mural Decorations.
Toronto: 1930.
Souvenir. Toronto: Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute Literary Society, 1899
Tunis, Barbara. The Study of the School for Graduate Nurses, McGill
University, 19201964. Montreal: McGill University Press, 1966.
PERIODICALS
Baker, Prof. Alfred. "Memoir of Archibald MacMurchy, M.A.. LL.D.".
University Monthly. Nov., 1912.
Biggar, James. "Earliest Times Il", Old Times. Winter, 1977.
Green, Duncan. "A Team Teaching Program in English", School Progress.
Oct., 1963.
Spragge, G.W. "The Cornwall Grammar School Under John Strachan"
Ontario Historical Society, "Papers and Records". 1942.
"John Strachan's Contribution to Education". Canadian
Historical Review. 22: 147, 1958.
Young. Prof. A.H. "The Rev'd George OKill Stuart, M.A., LLD.", Ontario
Historical Society, "Papers and Records". vol. 24. 1927.
YEARBOOKS
Jarvis Collegiate Magnet. vol. I, nos. 1•4, Toronto: Jarvis Collegiate Institute,
Oct., 1922 to Feb., 1923.
Unveiling of Portrait of Mr. Archibald MacMurchy. Toronto: the Toronto Institute. 1905.
Grammar School Old Boys' Association, 1902.
The Magnet. vol. I, nos. 1-5, Toronto: Jarvis Collegiate
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NEWSPAPERS
Canadian High News, 1948.
The Colonial Advocate, 1827.
The (Toronto) Evening Telegram, 1887-1945.
The (Toronto) Globe, 1887-1932.
The (Toronto) Globe and Mail, 1953-1976.
The Kingston Gazette, 1811.
The (Toronto) Mail, 1882-1931.
The (Toronto) Mail and Empire, 1897-1936.
ne (Toronto) Standard, 1902.
The Toronto star, 1922-1977.
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The Vancouver Daily Province, 1921.
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Toronto: Jarvis Street Collegiate Institute, 1907.
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(No volume was published in 1938).
RECORDINGS
Boys' Athletic Banquet. May 27, 1969.
Farewell Assembly. May 30, 1969.
First Reunion of Optimus Trophy Winners, 1923-1960. May 4, 1960.
Milton Jewell Portrait Presentation. May 28, 1969.
195

Ager, Barbara, 137
Agnew, Bill, 164
Agnew, Islay: See Brown, Islay
Agnew, Paul, 180fn
Akmens, Inese, 176
Allan, Margaret, 140
Allen, Gerry, 131, 139fn, 141, 152, 176
Alley, Herbert, 69fn, 78fn
Ailin, Arthur, 140, 141, 142, 146, 151, 152, 157
"Amby", 104
Ampeff, George, 173
Ampeff, Vlade, 164, 169, 180fn
Arikado, Marjorie, 169
Armour, Rev. Samuel, 23
Art Club, 124
Arthur, Prince of Connaught, 75
Ashdown, Bessie, 96
Ashikawa, Steven, 173
Ashmore, S., 135fn
Auldjo, W., 50
Bagby, Bob, 173
Bain, Dr. James, 40fn
Baker, Prof. Alfred, 42, 61, 67, 68fn, 71,83
Baldwin, Rev. Arthur, 53
Baldwin, Robert, 20, 21
Bannerman, Jean, 69fn
INDEX
1) of all persons named in text (including footnotes, excluding
photos);
2) of all Canadian schools;
3) of all Clubs at JCI;
4) of all other corporate bodies directly related to JCI
(e.g. T.S.S.A.A.)
Barber, George Anthony, 24, 32, 40fn
Barclay, Rev. John, 36, 42
Barker, Gerry, 168
Barnes, C.H. "Math", 137
Barnes, Charles "Latin", 81, 141
Bartlett, Fred, 131
Baxter, C., 83
Beaton, Muriel, 135, 135fn, 136fn
Beissel, Karen, 162
Belfour, Marvin, 169
Bellinger, Dennis, 162
Benny, Ron, 169
Berns, Chris, 184
Bethune, Rev. A.N., 22, 22fn
Biggs, Aurelle, 164
Bishop, Douglas, 173
Bishop Strachan School, 138
Blackford, Gordon, 129, 136fn
Blackford, Lorraine, 135
Blatchford, Douglas, 104, 141
Boisvert, Robert, 171
Bond, Jim, 169
Booth, Dr. Charles, 131, 141
Borden, Sir Robert, 96
Borsook, Louis, 99, 100
Boulton, D'Arcy, 15
Boulton, George S., 15
Bowman, Web, 131, 134, 176
Boys' Athletic Association (B.A.A.), 176
Boys' Club, 137, 145
Boys' Literary Society: See The "Lit."
Bozinoff, Lillian, 154
Braddon, R., 91fn
Brethour, William, 26
Bricker, Marguerite, 137
Brien, Richard, 142
Brock, Gen. Isaac, 18, 19
Brokenshire, Melville, 104, 124, 157
Brooke, C.R., 33
Brown, Agnes: See Diltz, Agnes
Brown, Dr. Alan, 75
Brown, Islay, 73
Brown, Ruth, 99
Bryans, Gerry, 152fn
Bryans, Helen, 99, 105, 121, 124
Bryce, Beatrice, 85, 104, Ill
Buchan, David, 37
Buchner, B.G., 63
Bull, J., 50
Bull, Stratton, 185
Bunting, John, 58
Burns, Barbara, 143, 146
Burns, Mr., 57
Burton, C.L., 68fn
197

Burton, David, 169
Cadet corps, 63, 70, 75, 81, 89, 117
120, 121, 124, 129, 132, 135fn, 140, 157
160, 166, 168-169, 180fn
Cairns, Joyce, 162
Camera Club, 111, 120, 141, 156
Cameron, Rev. W.A., 120
Campbell, Douglas K., 166, 168-169, 180fn
Campbell, Ron, 149, 154, 162
Canadian Students for Nuclear Disarmament,
168
Capon, A.R., 68fn, 135fn
Capri, Anton, 180fn
Carmichael, Frank, 96
Carpenter, Mr., 123
Carr, Charles, 162
Carroll, Lou, 100
Carscallen, Douglas, 135fn, 136fn, 142,
156, 180, 180fn
Carter, Mr., 188
Carter, Rev. W., 61
Cartier, Sir George E., 36
Castle Frank High School, 171
Cawthra, William, 17
Cayuga Grammar School, 33
Centenary Athletic Award, 100, 181
Central Technical School, 176
Chambers, Laurie, 157
Chandler, Ron, 171, 173
Charlesworth, Hector, 56
Chase, George, 57, 61, 76, 78, 78fn
Christie, F.J., 63
Church, Margaret, 137
Church, Thomas L. , 65, 85, 86
Claire, Lorna, 129
Clark, William, 31
Clarke, Fred, 78, 137, 139
Cochrane, Honora, 22fn, 25fn, 27fn, 31fn,
40fn, 45fn, 67 , 69fn, 78fn, 91fn, 105, 121,
132, 136fn, 141, 144, 152fn
Cochrane Cup, 137
Cockshutt, Isabel: See Rolls, Isabel
Cody, Canon H.J., 120
198
Colborne, Sir John, 25, 26
Cole, Henry, 184
The Collegiate, 57, 62
Collingwood Public School, 46
Community Hebrew Academy, 155
Connelly, Mr., 173
Constantinides, C.L., 63
cook, James, 137, 140, 149, 154, 176
Coombs, John, 142, 176
Cooper, Mary, 134, 136fn
Cornwall Grammar School, 22fn
Cosens, Charles, 27
Cosens, Edith, 137, 146, 157
Cotton, Harold "Baldy", 96, 100, 131
County G rammar School Programme, 33
Crawford, W.G., 61, 66
Crazy 8's, 171
Crockett, Bruce, 162
Crofoot, Alan, 149, 153fn
Crombie, Ernestus N.A., 31
Crombie, Marcellus, 28-31, 31fn
Crombie, Mrs. Marcellus, 29
Cronk, Willard, 99
Crum, George, 151
Curran, Bob, 162
Daly, Charles, 36
A Dark Secret, 63
Darbyshire, William, 142, 157
Darling, Capt., 94
Daufman, Harold, 141
Davies, "Alf", 100
Davies, James, 169, 176
Dean, Harold, 169
Dearborn, Gen., 19
The Debating and Literary Society: See
The "Lit."
Defries, William, 74
Delisle, C., 58
DeNardis, Frank P., 136fn
Dennison, Col., 42
Denton, Mr., 60, 61
Detlor, George H. , 15
Dew, Dorothy, Ill
Dewart, Herbert H. , 50, 61
Dewdney, Alex, 65
Dickson, George, 22fn
Diefenbaker, John, 166
Dies, Jack, 173
Diltz, Agnes, 91fn, 94, 96, 135fn
Dixon, S. , 58
Doherty, Burton, 131-132
Donaldson, Fred, 173
Dopp, "Gene", 90
Doughty, A.G., 22fn
Drama Club, 123
Drayton, Sir Henry Lumley, 56, 107
Drinkwater, Mr., 33
Duder, Clyde, 173
Duff, Sir Lyman, 50, 96, 106
Duffey, Orle 124
Duncan, Gord, 100
Duncan-Clark, S. , 57
Durham, Lord, 31fn
Durie, Helen, 81, 141
Dyce, Harry, 121, 157
Dye, Cecil "Babe", 100
Eckel, Jim, 132
Edmison, J. Alex, 111, 120, 121, 151, 176
Edmison, Harry, 124, 176
Edwards, Marion, 153fn
Elgin, Lord, 36
Elliott, Dr., 66
Elliott, Dorothy, 137, 176
Elliott, Harry, 111
Embree, Dr. Luther, 78, 81, 85, 89, 90, 91, 94
Evans, Ellis, 157
Expo '67, 173
Ex-pupils' Association: See also Old Boys'
Association; Old Girls' Association; 71,
78
A Fair Secret, 63
Fairchild, Prof. A.H.R., 47, 68fn
Fairty, Mr., 66

Falconbridge, John, 56, 57
Faul, Dr., 61
Feasby, Dr. William, 137
Ferguson, Dr., 66
Ferguson, M., 58
Ferguson, Stanley, 131, 137, 155
Finlayson, William, 56, 57
Flint, David, 22fn
Fogler, Dick, 72
The Folk Singers, 173
Foster, Dan, 188
Fraser, Ian, 160, 180fn
Fraser, Pipe Major James, 160
French Horn Quartet, 171
Friedman, Rubin, 173
Gagen, Mr., 57
Galasso, Tony, 173
Galbraith, Don, 171
Gall, Sandy, 137
Galt, Sir A.T., 36
Galt Grammar School, 53
The "Games", 50, 58-59, 70, 85, 89
Gang, Israel, 136fn
Gatten, John, 164
Gilbert, Arthur, 142, 157
Gilbert and Sullivan, 149, 162, 164:
Operettas: Trial by Jury, 149, 162, 169;
Pirates of Penzance, 149, 162, 169;
H.M.S. Pinafore, 149, 169; The
Mikado, 151, 162, 164, 169, 180fn;
Iolanthe, 151, 162, 164; The Gondoliers,
154, 164, 169
Gill, Joseph, 68fn, 120, 135fn
Gilray, Rev. A. , 61
Ginsler, Lionel, 149
Girls' Athletic Association/Council
(G.A.A.), 104, 117, 121, 123, 135fn, 166
181
Girls' Club, 123
Girls' Literary Society: See The "Lit."
Givins, James, 17
Glasberg, Rhoda, 171
Glasberg, Ronald, 171
Glee Club, 138, 141, 142, 149, 162, 173
Gooderham Cup, 70
Gordon, Ward, 142, 157
Gore, Gov., 13, 18
Gore, Graham, 169
Goss, Elizabeth, 176
Grant, Wilbur, 61, 76
Grasset, Dean, 36
Gray, B., 57
Gray, Jean, 146
Gray, Robert, 78, 90
Grayson, B.M., 159
Green, Duncan, 169, 180fn
Greenaway, Jessie, 78, 91
Greenless, Mr., 42
Greer, Lt.-Col. R., 107
Grey, Anthony, 162
Grier, Sir Edmund Wyly, 78, 121
Griffith, Louise, 142, 149, 176
Groves, Edith, 107
Gulston, Charles, 140
Gunn, R.E., 63
Hagarty, Chief Justice, 32
Hagarty, Edward, 50
Hagarty, Katie F., 61
Haigh, Jack, 152
Haist, Ralph, 166, 176, 178, 180fn
Hamilton, Thomas G., 15
Hamilton, William A., 15
Hansen, Andrea, 162
Hansen, Helen, 169
Harbord Collegiate Institute, 58, 59, 60,
65, 85, 121
Hardy, Dr. Edwin, 81, 96, 137, 157
Harley-Smith, Dr., 65
Harmer, Bertha, 71
Harrison, Rev. Richard, 36
Harvey, David, 162
Harvey, Lorraine: See Blackford, Lorraine
Hass, Herman, 129
Hastings, Mr., 61
Hautamaki, Soile, 169
Heeney, Ed, 100, 104, 124, 129, 136fn
Henry, George, 56
Hepburn, Premier Mitchell, 146
Heron, J.B., 63
Hewish, Mr., 57
Hewitt, Foster, 99
Hickling, J., 78
Hill, Ed, 121, 141, 142, 143, 144, 166, 176
Hillmer, Al, 173
Hillmer, Eric, 173
Hirohito, Emperor, 146
History Club, 124, 138, 142, 155
Hitler, Adolph, 144
Hobbs, Alfred, 166
Hodgins, Dr. J.G., 31fn, 40fn, 43, 47, 67,
68fn, 69fn
Holmes, Frank, 188
Holmes, George, 124
Holmes, Sydney, 131, 141
Home and School Club, 123
Home District Grammar School, 9, 13-23,
25fn, 31fn
Hornsby, Kerry, 173
Howard, McLean, 26
Howe, Dr. Michael, 31-33, 37, 43
Howe, Mrs. Michael, 11, 43, 45, 48, 71
Howland, Lt.-Gov. William, 47
Howland, Mayor, 53
Howland, Mr., 57
Howland Scholarship, 50, 56
Hughes, David, 162
Hughes, Sir Sam, 47, 50, 53, 68fn, 96
Humberside Collegiate Institute, 134, 173
Huneault, Fern, 152
Hunt, Rev. Harry, Ill
Hunter, Lt.-Col. A., 107
Hutchison, Mr., 124
Hutton, Capt. H., 169
Ignatieff, George, 124
Jackson, A. Y. , 96
Jameson Avenue High School: See Parkdale
Collegiate Institute
199

Jarviq. Edmund. 117
Jarviq. F,ii7ö Ann, 15
, arviq, William. 42. 106
Jarvis. George S 17
arviA. Jeffrey. 135fn
Jarvis, Lilian: Soc Keaton Lilian
arvis. Maria. 15
Jarvis. Samuel. 15
Jarvis, William. 15
Jarvis Alumni Association: See also Expupils'
Association; 135
Jarvis Centenary Award, 90
Jarvis Collegiate Association: See Expupils'
Association
Jarvis Collegiate Institute Wool Fund, 96
Jarvis Mosaic. 188
Jarvis Patriotic and Philanthropic Fund, 96
Jarvis Pipe Band. 160
Jarvis Student Association/Council, 137,
139. 171. 176, 178
Jarvis War Service Council, 140
Jasieve. 185
Jaycees. 173
Jeffries, John, 81, 94.96.100. 104-106, 117,
123. 124, 131A32, 134-135, 135fn, 136fn,
176
Jenkins, James Jr., 138
Jenkins, Dr. James T.. 104, 117, 138, 151,
152, 154, 155
Jenkins, Marion: See Seretis, Marion
Jennings. Rev. John. 31.36
Jennings. William A., 68fn, 81, 131
Jewell, Arthur. 180fn
Jewell, Milton, 9, 59. 155, 157M), 165,
169, 176, 178, 180, 180fn
Joel, Dorothy, 124
Johnston, David. 149, 152fn
Johnston, John, 155
Jordan, Marc, 171
Kaiman, Nat, 164
Keatov, Lilian, 149, 151
Kerr, H. , 129
Kirkham, Barbara, 162
200
Kirkrotöck. Lt. Gov.. 58
Koverko. Gary, 188
Ladies' Literary Society. See The "Lit."
Landen. Marguerite: See Pearson,
Marguerite
Landell. Marian, 137
Landen, Stanley, 137, 138
Langill, Kyle, 185
Langton, H.H., 40fn
Lansdowne, Lady, 53
Lansdowne, Lord, 46, 53
Lasserre, Marguerite, 131
Latta, G.W., 99
Lauder, Sir Harry, 123
Lautens, Stephen, 185
Lawrence, Allan, 151
Lawrence Park Collegiate, 137, 141, 176
Leadbeater, Joan, 171
Leger, Jules. 46, 185
Lehman, Eldon, 173
Lehmann, Carl, 62, 73-74, 90
Lett, Dr., 33
Levandis, Steve, 100
Levi, E., Ill
Lewis, David, 173
Lipson, Barbara, 162
Lismer, Arthur, 96
The "Lit.", 11, 41, 42, 51, 55, 5768, 60, 62,
(B, 70. 74, 76, 78, 78fn, 123
Literary and Scientific Society: See The
"Lit.
Litowitz, Henry, 129
Lobb, Mr., 53
Logan, Genevieve, 142
London Trophy, 162
Long, Thomas, 106, 117
Lorriman, Douglas, 176, 178
Lorimer, Barrie, 137
Louden, Dr. James, 36
Lougheed, Peter, 81
Low, David, 173
Lowes, Barry, 178
Lumb, Ken, 173
McAree, J_V., 47, 68fn
MacAulay, Rev. Duncan. 25 27. 67
McCamus, Marion, 141
McCann, Eric, 181
McCarthy, Pat, 188
McCombie, Alen. 136fn
MacDonald, George S. , 32.
MacDonald, J.E.H„ 96
MacDonald, John. 180fn
Macdonald, Sir John A.. 36
Macdonald, Perley. 53
MacDonald, Wally, 124
MacDonald, Wilson, 124
McDonelI, Angus, 15
McDonelI, Donald, 15
McDonnell, Allan. 20
McEachem, Neil, 50, 56
McEachern, P.. 61
McGill, Mr., 21
MacIntosh, Lance, 188
Macintosh, Sharon, 169
MacKay, Alexander. 26
McKay, Thomas, 45
McKelIar, John, 104, 137. 154
Mackenzie, Duncan, 123
MacKenzie, Elma St. G., 58, 78fn
Mackenzie, William Lyon, 26
McKerracher, Lloyd, "Mac", 104, 131.
138, 157, 180fn
McKnight, John, 137
McLean, Jim, 149
McMaster, Ross, 185
MacMillan, Sir Ernest Campbell, 74-75,
165
MacMurchy, Angus, 61
MacMurchy, Dr. Archibald, 26, 27fn, 33,
42, 43, 4648, 51-53, 56, 58, 60, 61.668,
68fn, 69fn, 70
MacMurchy, Bessie, 56
MacMurchy, Campbell, 61
MacMurchy, Dr. Helen, 48, 51, 62, 71

McMurray, William, 20
McNab, Allan, 15, 17
McNair, Clarence "Moose", 142, 176
McNaught, William C. , 58, 68fn, 69fn, 74
Macpeak, Miss, 63
MacPherson, Doug, 100, 134
McRobert, Sarah, 131, 176
Madill, Prof. Harry, 89
The Magnet, 40fn, 68fn, 69fn, 74, 75,
78fn, 89, 91fn, 104, 111, 120, 123, 135fn,
136fn, 137, 139, 139fn, 140, 141, 152,
152fn, 153fn, 156, 180fn, 184, 188fn
Maitland, Sir Peregrine, 21
Malvern Collegiate Institute, 73, 90, 134,
155
Mancarte, M., 26
Manley, Major Fred F., 41, 42, 47, 50, 57,
61, 63, 66, 68fn, 69fn, 70, 71, 73, 75, 76,
78, 78fn
Marling, Alfred E., 47, 68fn
Matsui, Karol: See Michaluk, Karol
Medland, Harvey, 9, 11-12
Menzies, Beatrice: See Bryce, Beatrice
Merrick, M., 57, 58
Micek, Henry, 154
Michaluk, John, 173
Michaluk, Karol, 165
Michell, William, 62, 75, 90, 99
Middleton, Hon. Justice, 107
Millan, Brian, 173
Miller, Rev. A.E., 40fn
Miller, Prof. Lash, 56
Mills, Rev. J.v., 159
Minerva, 9, 11, 12, 59, 68, 132, 137, 141,
156, 164, 166, 176, 188
Mingay, John, 169
Modern History Club: See History Club
The Modernaires, 138
Montague, James, 166
Montague, Judi, 169
Moore, Thomas, 135fn
Moorhouse, Walter, 104, 111, 124, 141
142, 144, 151, 165
Morgan, Major J.R.H., 157
Mountain, Bishop, 21
Muir, James, 185
Muir, Peter, 121, 142, 145, 155
Muir, Tom, 185
Munro, Drum Major A., 160
Munro, John, 100, 124, 134, 176
Munro, Dr. Peter, 90
Murray, Lawrence, 100
Murray, Thomas, 173
Mutton, Ralph, 185
Nelson, John, 104, 157
Nesbitt, Mabel, 105, 142, 144
Norris, Miss, 63
North Toronto Collegiate Institute, 173,
176
Northern Vocational School, 137, 157
Northview Heights Collegiate Institute,
178
Oakwood Collegiate Institute, 90, 134, 141
O'Connell, Marguerite "Biddy", 81, 123,
141
O'Connor, Miss, 60
Old Blue School, 9, 15, 22-25, 27, 29, 32
33, 36, 40fn, 41, 46
Old Boys' Association, 47, 61-63, 67, 71
83,85
Old Girls' Association, 62, 63, 71, 74, 83,
85
Ontario College of Art, 48
Ontario Secondary School Orchestra, 138
Optimus Trophy, 120, 176, 180fn
Order of Canada, 111
Osgoode Hall Law School, 56
Otter, Lt.-Col. , 63
Overholt, Jack D., 140, 142, 149, 151, 154
162, 164, 169, 180fn
J.D. Overholt Memorial Glee Club, 164
Parkdale Collegiate Institute, 57, 58, 70,
78, 81, 85, 134
Patch, Gladys, 140
Patterson, Dickson, 67
Peaker, Marie, 162
Pearson, Lester B., 160, 180fn
Pearson, Marguerite, 131, 136fn
Pearson, William, 132
Pellatt, Sir Henry, 89
Pepier, Mr., 53
Pepper, Gordon, 180fn
Perlman, Louis, 100
Peroff, William, 131
Perrin, 164
Perry, Joan, 146, 152fn
Perry, Mr., 57-58
Petch, Charlie, 90
Petrykan, Walter, 154
Phair, M., 137
Phillips, Alfie, 117, 124
Phillips, Stella, 71
Phillips, Rev. Dr. Thomas, 23-24
Piersol, Dr. W.H., 53, 68fn
Pilkington, William, 17
Pilskalnietis, Egons, 173
Planquette, Robert, 154
Playter, Thomas, 17
Poetry Club, 124
Poole, Ross, 171
Porter, Gordon, 173, 180fn
Powell, Rev., 120
Pratt, E.J., 124
Prendergast, William, 100
Prenevost, Don, 169
Prince of Wales Scholarship, 138
Procter, Miss, 63
Procter, Alan, 120
Procter, Lorna, 135fn
Public Speaking Club, 138
Queen's Own Rifles, 75, 86
Queen's University, 9, 111
Rae, Jackie, 138
Rae, Saul, 124, 131
Ralsten, Alan, 69fn
Rattray, William, 36
201

Rauf, Dr., 166
Reading, Outdoor Athletics and Dramatic
Club (R.O.A.D.;, 123
Reesor, Mrs. E.B., 50, 68fn
Reid, George, 129, 131, 149
Reid, Mary, 129, 149
Reid, Rev. Dr., 53
Ridout, George, 25
Ridout, Horace, 21
Ridout, John, 15
Ridout, Mary, 15
Riverdale Collegiate Institute, 90, 157, 173
180fn
Robarts Plan, 165
Roberts, James, 124
Robertson, Betty, 154
Robertson, Gilbert, 74, 107
Robinson, Florence, 63
Robinson, Percy, 57
Rolls, Isabel, 56, 106
Rotenberg, Henry, 99
Roth, Rudy, 164
Routley, Sharon, 169
Royal Grammar School, 11, 23-37
Royal Military College, 56
Russell, Mavis, 162
Russell, Wally, 162
Ryerson, Egerton, 29
Ryerson Training School, 90
Ryrie, James, 107
Sadie Hawkin's Sock Hop, 165
Safarian, Edward, 151
st. John, Helen, 105, 124, 137, 157
St. John, Katherine, 137, 142, 157
Sawicki, Vera, 149
Scadding, Henry, 17, 17fn, 21, 22fn, 25fn
Scholes, Lou, 65
School acts: District Public School Act,
1807, 13; Common School Act, 1816,
21; School Act, 1844, 29; School Act,
1846, 29; School Act, 1871, 43; Truancy
Act, 1891, 57
Science Club, 176
202
Scientific Society: See The "Lit."
Scott, Dan, 188
Scrivener, Robert, 124
Sears, Eleanor, 105, 176
Seath, Mr., 60
Semenovs, Inese: See Akmens, Inese
Senior Grammar School in Toronto, 25fn,
3643, 45fn, 67, 68fn
Seretis, Marion, 138, 139fn
Seto, Raymond, 173
Seton, Ernest Thompson, 48, 68fn, 74
Shacter, Judy, 162
Shaw, Dorothy, 137
Shaw, G.E., 61
Shea, Mr., 134
Sheard, Joseph, 36
Shepherd, George, 178
Sheppard, Harold, 124, 131, 142, 146,
155
Sherwood, Mr., 36
Shield, Harold, 144
Shields, Barbara: See Burns, Barbara
Shiiton, Ann, 141, 151, 154, 181, 184
Sicotte, Mr., 36
Simcoe, Sir John Graves, 13
Sinclair, Dr. Jack, 100, 104, 117,
Sinclair, John, 104
Skinner, Wayne, 12, 176
Smallpiece, V.N., 63
Smith, A., 58
Smith, Dr. Arthur, 100
Smith, Barrie, I" 173
Smith, H.J., 68fn
Smith, Nelson, 176
Smithson, Laura, 104, 105, 132, 137
Smythe, Major Conn, 78,90, 131
Snider, C.H., 65
Sniderman, Harry, 124
Soble, Ken, 124
Solandt, Dr. Omond, 100,129
Somers, R., 57
Somerville, Marc, 180fn
Soopere, Urve, 162, 169
Souvenir, 62, 69fn, 78
Spence, Ruth, 105
Spence, Winnifred, 62, 78, 105
Spragge, G.W., 22fn
Spragge, John Godfrey, 20
Stacey, Vera, 154
Stamp Club, 138, 141, 146
Staples, Fletcher, 104, 131, 155, 180fn
Stark, Mrs., 184
Steinhauer, David, 111, 117, 121, 131,
136fn, 141
Stephens, Ted, 162
Stephenson, B.G., 63
Stephenson, Roy, 75
Stewart, Bob, 169
Stinson, Frances, 104, 121, 124, 137,
151, 162, 176
Stiver, Miss, 140
Stock, Mr., 104
Story, N., 22fn
Strachan, Campbell, 142, 176
Strachan, Rev. John, 11, 18-23, 32
Stuart, Rev. George O'Kill, 11, 13-17, 17fn
Stuart, Rev. John, 18
Stubbs, Ted, 142, 149, 155, 162, 169, 180fn
Summers, Edith, 62
Sutherland, Don, 185
Swartz, Max, 121
Tapscott, Harold "Tappy", 81, 137
Teagle, Robert, 100
Thomas, Janie, 48, 51, 60-61, 71, 83, 94,
107, 111, 117, 120, 121, 176
Thomas, Louy, 48
Thompson, Charlotte, 48
Thompson, Emily, 62
Thomson, Roy (Lord Thomson of Fleet),
90, 91fn
Tice, William, 162, 169
Timbers, Ivars, 164
Toffolo, Ann, 178, 180
Toronto Collegiate Institute, 47-57

Toronto Grammar School: See Senior
Grammar School in Toronto
Toronto Grammar School Ex-pupils' Association:
See Ex-pupils' Association
Toronto Grammar School Mental Improvement
Society: See The "Lit."
Toronto Grammar School Old Boys' Association:
See Old Boys' Association
Toronto High School, 43-47
Toronto Lacrosse Grounds, 50
Toronto Model School, 46
Toronto Secondary School Athletic Association
(T.S.S.A.A.), 70, 89, 104, 132,
134, 137, 151, 164, 173, 180fn, 184, 185
Toronto Secondary School Teachers'
Federation, 140
Toronto Secondary School Women's Athletic
Association (T.S.S.W .A.A.), 184
Trivett Award, 166
Tsukornyk, George, 149
Tubby, Laura, 81
Tunis, Barbara, 78fn
Turnbull, Gord, 164
Turner, Doug, 100
United Appeal Campaign, 166
University of Ottawa, 111
University of Toronto, 22, 36, 40fn, 41, 42,
43, 46, 48, 51, 75, 81, 89, 90, 100, 124,
131, 151, 155, 173; King's College, 22, 25,
36; University College, 41; Victoria
College, 36
University of Waterloo, 185
Upper, Art, 100, 132, 137
Upper Canada College, 11, 22fn, 24-27,
36-37, 62
Uren, Leslie, 100
Vahi, Kalju, 164
Van Koughnet, Mr., 36
Vance, Bruce, 169
veley, Paul, 169
Vercoe, Francis Henry, 56, 68fn
Visitors' Book, 46, 48, 68fn
Walker, Ben, 100
Walker, David, 104, 111, 117, 121, 135fn,
136fn, 166
Wallace, Mrs. W., 83
Wanless, John, 120, 176
War Memorial (W.W.I), 96, 99, 129, 131,
135, 159
War Memorial (W.W.II), 149, 159
War Service Council, 142, 144
Ward, Chris, 171
Waring, E., 180fn
Warren, Grahan, 142, 176
watt, Tom, 173, 180fn
Watts, Mr., 63
Wedlock, Tom, 56, 90
Wemp, Major Bert, 75, 106, 111
Western Technical-Commercial School,
164
West Humber Secondary School, 178
What-not, 51
White, Ken, 124
Wickett, S. , 57
Wickham, Bob, 162
Wickson, Rev. Dr. Arthur, 41, 42, 43, 45,
48
Wilken, Thelma, 149, 151
Wilkie, Andrew, 123, 138, 141, 149
Wilkinson, Bandmaster, 117
Willison, Lady: See MacMurchy, Bessie
Wilson, James, 65
Wilson, Mr., 57
Wilson, Norman, 63
Wolfe, Ann, 169
Wolfson, Dorothy: See Joel, Dorothy
Women's Enfranchisement Association,
51
Wong, Robert, 162
Wood, David, 173
Wood, Donald, 100
Wood, Dorothy: See Dew, Dorothy
Wood, Gerry, 99, 100
Woodlawn, 106, 117
Woollard, Mary: See Cooper, Mary
World Affairs Club, 166
Wright, Harold, 176
Wright, L.A., 69fn
Y.W.C.A. Club, 123
Ylinen, A., 135fn
Young, A. , 26
Zajac, Andrew, 162
203