Keep Troth
The Fall 2020 KHC Newsletter
r A Note from our 32nd Head of School
r The KHC Corner
r What Gillard Means to Us
Members of our community proudly model KHC colours with their 50th reunion scarves.
A Note from Linda F rom glass passage
As we approach the 50th anniversary of the union between KHC and BCS, my thoughts have often turned to what the decision to unite the two schools must have meant to the students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni at that time. I suspect there were pockets of reluctance and resistance, and that the decision, though prudent, was not immediately greeted with unanimous approval; big decisions rarely are. I don’t envy the leaders of the school during that period. Change, even when it is well planned, necessary, and within your control, is hard to manage. In hindsight, we might salute those deciders for their courage. The spirit of KHC remains alive at BCS and the school continues to look for legitimate ways to weave the story of KHC into the story of BCS.
Today, our school is facing an unanticipated, external challenge that requires us to consider many changes to our organization. Having wrestled with the seriousness of a global pandemic, we are now well advanced with plans for safer learning and living spaces, strategies for keeping our community healthy, and innovative ways to continue to deliver the full BCS experience in light of the new reality. In addition to this unanticipated external change, we have a foreseen, internal change: the transfer of Headship from Will Mitchell to Michel Lafrance, our 32nd Head of School. We thank Will for facilitating a very smooth transition to Michel and welcome the Lafrance family to BCS. We are also in the final year of our five-year strategic plan, which means we are about to dive into a period of intense self-reflection, with research on best practices and extensive community engagement to determine where we need to take our school to
achieve excellence in teaching, learning, residential life, athletics, and leadership. For positive change to ‘take’—whether it is responding to an external, internal, planned, or unplanned driver, I think it has to find a way to attach itself to a solid foundation. In a previous ‘Note from Linda’ in Keep Troth, I wrote about the roots that KHC alumnae symbolized. The change we must embrace now also requires strong roots to support it, and I have begun to think of the changes we need to make as new chapters in the long history of KHC and BCS. These chapters of change will need a strong spine; the old-fashioned kind that is not glued together but sewn for maximum durability. The traditions we have safeguarded and celebrate, the legacy of KHC and BCS together, form that strong spine that will support these new chapters. Whether written as a result of planned or unplanned change, internal or external,
those traditions will bind our new chapters together with the ones that preceded them.
As we approach an important milestone in the history of our school, the arrival of KHC girls at BCS fifty years ago, KHC continues to be an important leitmotif in the chapters that are written on Moulton Hill.
Linda Rodeck, BCS’81 BCS Association Board Chair
Linda celebrates the opening of our newest residence alongside former Head of School Will Mitchell.
A Note from Michel
As I begin my tenure at Bishop’s College School, I already feel part of the BCS/KHC community. I was introduced to the history of KHC and the joining of both schools in 1972 by our archivist Merrylou Smith and have had the distinct pleasure of meeting with Margot (Graham) Heyerhoff, KHC’69, on several occasions. Each conversation has revealed a little more about the way of life at the quaint all girls’ school in Compton. What I have learned so far is that KHC was a community built on trust, respect, rigour, and support—it was essentially a family! As I have come to know the BCS community, I see those same values emanating from the students, the staff, and the alumni. The transition that occurred in 1972 was clearly done successfully and the spirit of both schools lives on today.
As I look to the future, I am eager to meet as many KHC alumnae as possible, celebrating the much anticipated 50th anniversary of the joining of KHC and BCS, and steering the school towards its 200th anniversary in 2036. My family and I plan to be integral members of this community for a long time and I hope that you will share your stories, your memories, and your passion for your school in order to help us fully appreciate your experience.
When I walk through the glass passage, please know that you are always in my thoughts.
Stay safe. Be well.
Michel Lafrance Head of School
Head of School Michel Lafrance looks forward to celebrating the 50th anniversary of the merger of KHC and BCS.
The KHC Corner
By Merrylou Smith
If anyone were to ask a current student who Dr. Gillard was, they would most likely answer, “someone from the past that has a building named after them.” We are creating a KHC corner to educate our students about the legacy of King’s Hall, Compton. As we near the 50th anniversary of the BCS and KHC amalgamation, it is an opportune time to raise awareness with our students of the impact and influence of KHC throughout the years.
In early July, Margot (Graham) Heyerhoff, KHC’69, had the opportunity to visit with Michel Lafrance, the 32nd Head of School. They discussed the St. James the Less church bell and its proposed location on campus. In August, Margot will return with the architects to discuss the best
location for the bell, and the design of the artistic structure that will hold it. Margot also met with the former Head of School, Lewis Evans, BCS’65, to discuss a pedestal he has generously offered to build to display the bronze bust of Dr. Gillard. Once completed, this commemorative piece will be on display in a high traffic area of the school which we are dedicating to King’s Hall, Compton alumnae. This location is at the juncture of the glass passage, between School House and the Peter Holt Memorial Library, in the Hartland Molson Student Centre.
This location was chosen as it commemorates the glass passage at King’s Hall, Compton, and is also a display area hallway lined with KHC photographs. In addition,
we are creating a display table that will contain KHC memorabilia. At a future date, the stained-glass windows recuperated from the St. James the Less church will be installed somewhere on campus. Our goal is to have the permanent KHC commemorative display installation completed for the 50th anniversary of the KHC and BCS amalgamation at the beginning of the 2022 academic year.
Margot Heyerhoff, KHC’69, and Head of School Michel Lafrance met in early July to discuss where to house the St. James the Less church bell on the Moulton Hill campus.
What Gillard Means to Us
By Cala Tesolin and Violetta Zeitlinger-Fontana
Boarding school is a formative experience for every student but the one thing that will be most influential in their growth is their residence. Gillard House is named after former Headmistress Dr. A. E. Gillard who was an integral part of the King’s Hall, Compton community. Her continuous service to KHC is what earned her this permanent tribute within the Bishop’s College School and KHC communities. Dr. Gillard was a pioneer in empowering women to reach their full academic potential and her legacy of bravery and excellence lives on in Gillard House today.
As students who have spent most of their time at this school living in Gillard House, we have first-hand experience when it comes to our House values of inclusion and perseverance. Gillard House
is unique for many reasons but what really sets it apart is the diverse group of young women from all corners of the globe who come together to form not just a tight-knit community, but a family. Having close to 40 sisters meant there was never a dull moment. There was nothing like the thrill of our gift exchange during the Christmas season at Gillard House. Sometimes, if we had to get a gift for someone we did not personally know very well, we would take this as an opportunity to strengthen our bonds with everyone regardless of age, form, or interests.
This is only one example of the many practices of inclusion that immensely prepared us for our role as prefects in our final year. If there is anything that our school is known for, it is being an extremely
international community. As student leaders, it was our job to make everyone feel welcome as soon as they stepped foot on campus. Although Dr. Gillard herself may not have been the one to teach us these ideals, it was her legacy that helped shape our moral compasses.
To anyone who has never been a part of the Gillard sisterhood, it is hard to describe the effect that such an experience can have on you for years to come. Our time at Gillard House had its highs and lows but at the end of the day living there made us who we are today. Gillard House is more than what its name alludes; it is a home, a safe space, and an environment that has always encouraged positivity, and for that, we will always be grateful.
Cala Tesolin and Violetta Zeitlinger-Fontana, both of the Class of 2020, were privy to the legacy of sisterhood that Dr. Gillard left behind as boarders in Gillard House.
Celebrating Women’s Rights in an ‘Old Boys’ School’
By Bethany Rothney
When Mary MacLachlan arrived at Bishop’s College School as a Houseparent in Gillard House, her goal was to make the girls in her house feel empowered. “I want the girls to be able to recognize when they are being harassed and mistreated,” she said, “Sometimes it feels like we’re going a bit backwards.”
It was on International Women’s Day that Mary decided she should do something. The special day was mentioned during the day’s chapel assembly, however women’s contributions to the school and society were not necessarily celebrated. There was no mention of why International Women’s Day was celebrated, nor why the day is significant.
The first International Women’s Day took place in 1911 in celebration of 15,000 New
York women who protested their terrible working conditions. The United Nations made March 8th the official International Women’s Day in 1975 – International Women’s Year.
In the post-‘Me Too’ world, International Women’s Day has become globally celebrated. Mary’s initiative to give the special day a bigger platform at BCS stems from these sources of inspiration. As the 50th anniversary of the amalgamation of KHC and BCS approaches, celebrating alumnae women’s contributions to the school is even more timely. “BCS was an ‘Old Boys’ school,’ and you can feel that still lingering in the air,” Mary said.
Miss Gillard was one of the most notable Headmistresses of King’s Hall, Compton. Mary’s position as Houseparent in Gillard
house is clearly a perfect fit. Both Miss Gillard and Mary looked for and found ways of empowering the young women in their charge. Mary’s ongoing pursuit of empowerment for young women is just one way BCS celebrates International Women’s Day and continues Miss Gillard’s legacy.
Gillard Houseparent Mary MacLachlan organized a flash mob for this year’s International Women’s Day.
We’re grateful to have reminders of the legacy of King’s Hall, Compton throughout campus, including this sculpture displayed in the Peter G. Holt Memorial Library.
Compton Cemetery
By Tyler Gordon
Over the last few years, the legacy of the KHC Old Girls and its connections to BCS has been the centre of attention for the Advancement team. As we continue to find ways to showcase and enlighten the BCS community about the KHC legacy, its spirit still emanates from Compton and KHC Old Girls. In conversations about KHC, many Old Girls ask about the Compton Cemetery, adjacent to St. James the Less church. Established around 1815, this cemetery is the final resting place of some of the first Compton area settlers and was originally called the St. James Anglican Church Cemetery. The fine ornamental iron fence and gate was gifted by Senator Matthew H. Cochrane in 1875 and still stands today. This cemetery is also the final resting place for members of the KHC community, founded in 1874.
The KHC Community members include; Richard Dinzey, son of Reverend Dinzey, the founder of Compton Ladies College; Senator Matthew Cochrane, whose daughters attended Compton Ladies College; Miss
Laura Joll, Lady Principal of King’s Hall, Compton from 1905 to 1928; Reverend George H. Parker, who was responsible for returning and rebuilding St. James the Less church to its original location (the current location) in 1887, and who was the first priest to live in the parsonage next to KHC. There are also members of the Bliss Family who owned Maplehurst Farm, and Mrs. Bliss had a tearoom there for the KHC girls. There is also a member of the Kellam family who owned Kellam House, nicknamed “The Cottage” by the KHC girls. Connections between BCS and KHC are also to be found here, as James B. Winder, BCS’52, Old Boy, librarian, and founding archivist of the BCS Archives was also laid to rest in this cemetery.
Compton Cemetery is the final resting place for many members of the KHC community.
Gillian (McLaren) Frith, KHC’61, Recalls
Some of us were lucky enough during our time at Compton (or more properly, King’s Hall) to have known the ‘GBs’ (or more properly, Mr. and Mrs. Gilpen Brown). They were a retired couple who had moved from somewhere in Ontario to a modest house on a country road in rural Quebec. Their white clapboard house could be seen from the driveway of the school, just beyond the soccer field and a short hop across an unmowed field.
Sometimes a few of us would be invited by them for tea or even supper on a Sunday afternoon. Mrs. GB usually made scones for tea and if it were supper it would be something delicious and unlike anything we had at the school.
We would sit on the floor in front of the fire and forget for a few hours all our petty goings on across the way. We talked about all manner of things, complained a bit about the drudgery of school, but mostly
we had wonderful philosophical discussions about life and about books and about funny things too. I particularly remember conversations about J. D. Salinger and Raise High the Roof Beam, Carpenters and The Catcher in the Rye––books we were certainly not officially reading in our literature classes. The GBs were always interested in what we had to say and what we thought, and we were mutually interested in their points of view.
They were our escape hatch, our salvation, our confidants, and our friends. Looking back on that time I think they were somewhere between a much older brother and sister and a very indulgent aunt and uncle.
Often, when not formally invited and therefore sanctioned by the school authorities, a couple of us would ‘sneak’ over to their house for an impromptu short visit during our free outdoor time, undetected
Wendy Rankin, KHC’64, Recalls
In view of the fact that we are in the throes of a pandemic, here are some of my memories about community health and individual health at KHC.
When I was at Compton between 1960 and 1964 all the girls went into quarantine upon arrival at the school. Miss Jenkins, the school nurse would arrive every evening in the prep hall dressed in her crisp white uniform and white crepe soled shoes. I’m not certain but I think she wore a cap.
She carried a tray of thermometers propped in glasses filled with rubbing alcohol and each girl was subjected to a thermometer for a few minutes as she made her rounds. I believe this happened for three weeks and included checks on Saturday as we went up the stairs to bed after the week’s movie.
We had one minor epidemic during those years. Chicken pox. I didn’t get the virus then, but I did have several stints in the infirmary when I had bronchitis.
After being in the infirmary, the rule was that before returning to the gym, one had to get permission from Miss Jenkins to do so.
I vividly remember standing outside the infirmary and asking Miss Jenkins
“Can I take gym” and her response was “It depends on where you want to take him.”
by the powers that be. That was always the most fun––their road and house were ‘out of bounds’, so it was always great fun to run the risk and get away with it! They would show concern that THEY might be in trouble with the school, but they always let us in for a visit and a hot chocolate or a cup of tea!
I often wonder if they had any idea when they first moved to Compton, the role they would play in the lives of many teenage girls hungry for the kind of open-hearted companionship and understanding they provided.
I lost touch with them over the years but heard they had moved back to Ontario at some point. I do not really have a concept of how old they were then, and though they could not possibly be alive now, they will always be alive in my memory.
Wendy Rankin, KHC’64, in her final year at King’s Hall.
Jeannie (Walbridge) Blevins, KHC’65, Recalls
The best aspects of my two years at King’s Hall, Compton–Grades 10 and 11 (Matric)–were my classmates. Without related family nearby, the girls became my family. We depended on each other. We risked minus points to have forbidden chats with each other after lights out. These memories have endured for over 50 years with regular reunions, e-mails, and Facebook contacts.
Another major memory for me at KHC was music. There was no official music course, but there was a church choir. I loved singing. In my Grade 10 year, I was granted the honour of singing the only solo.
Funny story about the church choir. I had just been confirmed at home in the United Church of Canada. Thus, I was not familiar with Anglican services. Headmistress Miss Gillard told us that anyone who was a member of their own church was permitted to take communion at Saint James the Less. Gilly reassured us: “If you don’t know what to do during the church service, don’t worry. Just follow the choir.” Guess who was the only non-Anglican in the choir?
On early morning before Christmas, the choir sang outside in the snow under sleeping students’ windows. “Past three o’clock, and a cold frosty morning, Past three o’clock. Good morrow masters all.” The chilly concert was followed by a special breakfast for us choristers. A definite highlight.
During rare unscheduled time, we found precious opportunities to make music: folk music on guitars – “The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind…”; and music in basement piano rooms. Grade 9 student Marty and I paired up on a piano. She played the melody while I played lower harmony chords. Once we sang “Scarlet Ribbons” to keyboard accompaniment. At the end, we were startled by applause outside the piano room window.
The only television available to us was in the lounge. We students were permitted to watch a Beatles TV performance there ONCE. Special treat. I remember feeling frustrated with the teenage TV audience who were screaming so loudly that it was hard to hear the songs.
Sunday evenings just before lights out featured a recorded singing of the Lord’s Prayer. A soothing ending to the weekend.
The graduation song “Forty years on…” was especially poignant when WE were the Matric grads in 1965. And every time we Old Girls have reunions: 10th, 20th, 50th, our class song is sure to bring tears to our eyes. “When you walk through a storm… you’ll never walk alone.”
Side by side, the KHC Class of 1965’s 20th class reunion in 1985 and 50th class reunion in 2015.
Fighting Infectious Disease in the Year of COVID-19
By Bethany Rothney
2020 has been a year for the history books. While the world shut down, nurses, doctors and infectious disease specialists have been working around the clock, fighting to halt the spread of COVID-19. Dr. Stephanie Smith, BCS’90, daughter of Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61, is an associate professor at the University of Alberta in the division of Infectious Diseases and Director of Infection Prevention and Control at the university hospital.
While the rest of us bunkered down in our homes to wait out the pandemic, Stephanie was right in the centre of it. As the Director of Infection Prevention and Control, it has been a busy time for Stephanie. She says that she was prepared for the oncoming pandemic, so her ensuing workload has been manageable. “When we first heard about COVID in January, there was obviously concern, but it was [still] in China,” she said. “We were watching very closely…but when it started to spread into Europe, that’s when we really started
to plan.” In addition to all of the safety concerns, Stephanie says that calming the anxieties of staff who were concerned about taking the illness home with them, was also a major part of her job leading up to COVID-19 reaching Canada. As the lockdown persisted and economically suffering businesses wished to reopen, Stephanie said, “The issue became, how do we do that safely?”
“Shutting down was easier than opening back up,” she said, “COVID hasn’t gone away… we’re really not in a different situation.” Learning to live differently in the next six to nine months, the time until a vaccine will be available, will be key to preventing another major outbreak. Maintaining physical distancing as much as possible, hand hygiene, and wearing a mask Stephanie says, are the keys to keeping ourselves and those around us safe.
Stephanie credits her attendance at BCS as one of the factors that led her to the field of infectious disease. It was a topic
that had always interested her, and she says that a trip to India, while she was at BCS, exposed her to the burden developing countries face due to infectious diseases. While she may not have had her exact career in mind at the time, she acknowledges the impact that attending a private boarding school had on her. “Infection control, especially right now, requires a lot of leadership skills, conflict resolution skills and thinking on your feet, and the opportunities that I had at BCS helped me and allowed me to be where I am now.”
Left: No stranger to leadership, Dr. Stephanie Smith, BCS’90, was a prefect in her Form VII year at BCS, following in her mother Gill’s footsteps.
Right: Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61, was Head Girl in her graduating year.
KHC Awards
2019-20 End-of-Year School Assembly
The Stoker Prize for Art
Given in memory of Shirley Harrison Stoker, KHC’46, and Chair of the BCS Board from 1984-1988. This year, the prize was awarded to Chloe Seehafer
The Hewson Prize for Music
Named to honour Dorothy Hewson and her 36 years of teaching music at KHC and BCS. This year, the prize was awarded to Aidan Condo
2019-20 Graduation Ceremony Athletic Awards
The King’s Hall Cup
Given to the Girls’ All-Round Athletic Champion. This year, the prize was awarded to Lia Heggman
The “40 Years On” Award
Donated by Ann McNally Budge, KHC’54, this award is for the senior girl who best displays the love of sport in the out-ofdoors and who is likely to have the same enthusiasm 40 years on. This year, the prize was awarded to Maeve Maclachlan.
Special Prizes
Prix Mlle Cailteux
Ce prix est remis à la jeune fille dont l’attitude face au français comme langue d’apprentissage et de communication a servi à la communauté de BCS. Présenté annuellement à la mémoire de Mlle Odette Cailteux, professeure de français à King’s Hall, par Mary Cochrane Holt Cowans, KHC’54, et John Douglas Cowans, BCS’54. Cette année, le prix est décerné à Elizabeth Couture
The Jennifer Prosser Wade Award
Donated by Jennifer Prosser Wade to recognize a Form VI student who best
exemplifies what Martin Luther King, Jr. called “content of character” and stresses kindness, caring, and courage of one’s conviction. This year, the prize was awarded to Aidan Feddema
The Laura Joll Award
Donated by the KHC Old Girls’ Association for the girls who have shown most effort in contributing toward house spirit. This year, the prize was awarded to Sarah Francoeur (Gillard House), Fiona Mercure (Ross House), Cemre Naz Kurun (Glass House), Violetta Zeitlinger-Fontana (Williams House)
The Gillard Award
Donated by the KHC Old Girls’ Association. Awarded to a girl in the school for leadership, integrity, industry, and games. This year, the prize was awarded to Cala Tesolin
The KHC legacy proudly lives on in the many prizes and awards offered to our current-day students.
Proudly displaying its storied history, this 50-year-old award is still presented to deserving young women every year. This year, it was given to Cala Tesolin. Read her story on page 5.
C lass N otes
Nancy Petry, KHC’48
“Hi. I graduated many years ago from King’s Hall, Compton but I still remember how happy we were to be at such a wonderful school. I have been very busy lately making a new website of my art works. I have been a visual artist all my life and I think many people who read Keep Troth would be interested to look at my website: www.nancypetry.com. Best wishes.”
Barbara Gibaut, KHC’54
“This is quite the experience being in lock down at a Seniors’ Residence. What it means for the 65 residents at Applefest Lodge is no visitors, no activities, and no meals in the dining room. This situation creates a feeling of loneliness for some of us.
Not long ago I went to the hospital for a test (it was negative). When I got back a staff member was waiting for me and escorted me to my room. I was told I was in quarantine and would not be able to leave my room for 14 days. That happened to residents when they went off the property for any reason, in case they were close to someone with the virus while out. I told my escort that prisoners on death row got out for an hour each day. That won’t happen here she said.
As regulations and restrictions eased, my quarantine period was shortened by a few days. I was able to leave my room, walk out of the building, and roam happily around the property. Only time will tell when there is some normalcy in our lives such as going to the dining room for our meals rather than
having them delivered to our rooms. Friends and family will be able to visit and we them. Activities will resume and bingo fans will be delighted. I am keeping well and keeping safe. Hope all of you are too.”
Barbara has been living comfortably at the very pleasant Applefest Lodge Senior Retirement Residence in Brighton, Ontario for almost two years. She can be reached at the following address:
Applefest Lodge Retirement Residence 120 Elizabeth St Box 850 Brighton, ON KOK 1HO
Tel # 613 707 7949
E-mail barbaragibaut36@gmail.com
Clockwise from above left: Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61, has travelled across North America with her trusty KHC blazer; The KHC Class of 1959 reunited for a weekend of fun in Ottawa; The KHC Class of 1961 found new ways to connect over Zoom during the pandemic.
Judy (McColm) Boswell, KHC’56
Judy has spent the last 23 years competing in synchronized swimming. She swims in the Masters League and participates in the provincial events.
KHC Class of 1959
Submitted by Rosemary Christensen, KHC’59 “Planned by our classmate, Joan (Wright) Gale, our reunion was held in Ottawa from September 3-5. We stayed at an ideally located small hotel, ByWard Blue Inn on Clarence Street in ByWard Market. We took in all the Ottawa sights and sounds—we started by boarding the Hop-On-Hop-Off tour
on a Double Decker Bus, then took tours of the House of Commons, the National Gallery of Canada, the Gaugin Exhibit, and the Canadian Mint. We enjoyed a lovely evening at the home of Cynthia Joan (Cordeau) Baker and ended our reunion with an excellent dinner at the Courtyard restaurant followed by the ‘Northern Lights’ sound and light show on Parliament Hill. It was great to catch up with Cynthia (Cordeau) Baker, Joan (Wright) Gale, Kate Reed, Lorna (Murray) Beverley, Elaine (Audet) Kirschner, Barbara (Murray) Norton, Wendy (Whitehead) Nelles, Ann (Taylor) Collombin, Helen (Gibb-Carsley)
Farrell, Nancy (Glass) Carter, Elizabeth (Price) McCrudden, and Penny (Throsby) McDonald.”
Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61
“I thought you might be amused to know that my blazer has travelled from 1961 to 2011 from Compton, Quebec to Halifax, Nova Scotia to Brooklandville, Maryland to Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Tarboro, North Carolina to Colorado Springs, Colorado to Toronto, Ontario to Erindale, Ontario to Caledon, Ontario to Chester, Nova Scotia to Lenox, Massachusetts and finally back to Chester, Nova Scotia. Maybe it will surface in September 2021 when we gather in Montreal for our 60th reunion!”
KHC Class of 1961
Submitted by Gillian (Rowan-Legg) Booth, KHC’61 “Fifty-nine years on when afar and asunder, parted are those who are singing today... Yes… parted but still connected. The wonders of Zoom have allowed at least twelve of us from the Class of 1961 to gather virtually for wine and conversation during the COVID-19 pandemic. From Scotland to Colorado, Florida to Bermuda, Nova Scotia to Ontario and Quebec, we enjoyed sharing experiences and laughter as we interacted fifty-nine years after our KHC graduation—a testament to the strength of the bond forged during our Compton years!”
Above: Martha MacDonald, Jennifer Croome, Lindy Farrell, Lalage Hackett, Esther MacLeod, Mary Usher-Jones, Emily Black, Margot Cowen, Lalage Hackett, Dodi Hornig, and Lindy Farrell, all Class of 1963 at their reunion in Tadoussac last September. Below: Members of the KHC Class of 1963 reunited in Tadoussac.
Submitted by Kathy MacCulloch, KHC’63
We’ve Been to a Marvellous Party (circa 2019)
By Kathy MacCulloch
Again, with apologies to just about everyone, especially Noel Coward
We’ve been to a marvellous party - to celebrate 56 years on. This time we were summoned by Anne Evans Belton To Tadoussac, home to her heart. The place was so charming, she may find it alarming To hear she’s voted Hostess for Life!
We’ve been to a marvellous party - again, girls came from near and afar. Martha and Peter (yes, Peter!) Lindy and Anne came the West While Kathy and Sue came from Down East. Then came Emily, Callie and Janet, Pam, Mary and Penny. Lal, Margot and Esther, Dodi and Jennie. And we couldn’t have liked it more!
We’ve been to a marvellous party - and no one had changed AT ALL! … unless you count hearing aids, new knees and cataract surgery. All useful for talking, walking, whale watching and dune surf-ery. The food was divine and the wine quite sublime, All catered by our Anne and super tour guide Jane And we couldn’t have liked it more!
We’ve been to a marvellous party - and since we’re so hip and inclusive, We allowed BOYS to join us …. and what a good idea THAT was! Lew, Tom, Alan and Ian jumped into the fray and kept the drinks flowing, swept dishes away. (It was the LEAST we could do to include Anne’s family!) And we couldn’t have liked it more!
We’ve been to a marvellous party - VIVA the Class of ‘63! It’s easy to see and I think you’ll agree That the bonds remain strong as the years roll along Take care and stay well till we gather again. Follow up! Follow up! Follow up! we cried And we couldn’t have liked it more
Submitted by Dodi Hornig, KHC’63
There once was a woman, her name was Anne Who took on a task more than most people can.
She set up a reunion for a gaggle of gals, All boarding school buddies & lifelong pals.
She organized lots of fun things to do, Like walking, fabulous meals & whale watching too.
Everyone giggled, talked and caught up on news Some even had time for an afternoon snooze!
Four days these gals hung around together They were blessed with mostly fabulous weather.
When time came for all to say goodbye It was hard for some of them not to cry.
The gals left by plane, train and car Heading for places both near and far.
Not all the KHC Class of ‘63 were able to come But they were included in thoughts & calls, so not so glum.
We all want to thank Anne and her Family Crew Without them what would we ever do?
They were all so gracious, fun and kind Making us feel at home, with peace of mind.
Next time we meet will likely be Our big KHC Reunion Year “60”
So long for now, please all stay in touch & until then, Anne, THANK YOU EVER SO MUCH.
Submitted by Margot Cowen, KHC’63 Great limerick, I have been working on a haiku sooo here goes...
Sixteen happy souls One incredible hostess Four memorable days
Submitted by Janet (Burgoyne) Partridge, KHC’63 WELL DONE, Dodi … you’ve sent us all reeling, Able to express what we were all feeling.
To Anne and her “fam”, can’t thank you enough For all that you did to put up with our guff!
You opened MY eyes to Quebec’s north shore, So, I’ll certainly get back to explore some more.
Alan’s prayer in the Chapel was certainly moving, And “Forty Years On” really sounded quite grooving!
So, until our 60th … it will be a bonanza … “Forty Years on” might need a new stanza.
“Hasta la vista” and “a la prochaine” ..
Thanks to you, Anne … again and again
Submitted by Mary (Cape) Usher-Jones, KHC’63
Oh boy! / Old girl!!
You sure have delivered a pearl. I got as far as:
There once was a girl called Anne Evans Who lived in her own slice of heaven She invited her pals For food wine and whales And we all think she’s some special woman
KHC Class of 1963
The KHC Class of 1963 reunited at Anne (Evans) Belton’s home in Tadoussac at the beginning of September. The ladies had a wonderful time catching up and even did some whale-watching. See the series of poems recounting their reunion on the opposite page.
Dodi Hornig, KHC’63
“We had a ball! The weather the two full days we were in Tadoussac was perfect. Had a great time whale-watching and were so lucky as we saw a mom and baby humpback, beluga, fin and two other types plus porpoises. We saw a number of each which Anne says is unusual. We laughed, giggled, gossiped, ate, drank and caught up. Not sure what we can do for 2023 for our 60th! The scarf is lovely and a great size so very versatile. I am not one to wear logos on
my clothes, or KHC sweaters etc., but I love this scarf.”
KHC Class of 1964
Submitted by Andrea (Newman) Gordon, KHC’64 “Ann (Stikeman) Garland was able to work her magic and photoshop various pictures from our 1964 class Zoom meeting which was held on the 20th of June. Present were: Andrea (Newman) Gordon, Ann (Stikeman) Garland, Andrea Jellicoe, Julienne “Julie” (Clarke) Douglas, Elizabeth “Liz” Stikeman, Andrea (Ross) O’Rourke, Barbara Monk, Cheryl (McDermid) Lumley, Wendy Rankin, Betty Jane Punnett, Judith “Judi” (Fletcher) Dunn, Barbara (Little) Ring, Charlotte MacLatchy, Kathleen “Kathy” Plow, Deborah “Debbie” (Gill) Cushing, and Susan “Suzie” (Graham) Wild.”
KHC Class of 1965
Submitted by Gillian “Jill” Stainforth, KHC’65; Photos submitted by Sara (Peck) Colby, KHC’65, and Margot (Grant) Kyle, KHC’65.
“We were 20 or 21 of our graduating class 55 years ago, and four of our classmates have died so 87% were online.”
Jeannie (Walbridge) Blevins, KHC’65
“I’ve sent along my KHC grad photo (1965) with the cartoon of me by Sara Peck Colby. (She was our class artist). There is also a current photo of me.”
Margot (Grant) Kyle, KHC’65
“I am back to swimming just over 1K along the shoreline here at the cottage every day—my favourite activity. Though I don’t compete anymore, I had signed up to again do the 3K Easter Seals ‘Bushtukah Bring on the Bay Swim’ fundraiser in the Ottawa
Clockwise from left: The KHC Class of 1965 held a Zoom reunion to catch up over the summer; The ladies from the Class of 1964 reunited virtually over Zoom in June; Jeannie (Walbridge) Blevins, KHC’65, is still sporting her signature smile 55 years later.
Clockwise from above left: The KHC Class of 1967 celebrated 53 years together in Ottawa; In October, the KHC Class of 1968 celebrated their 51st class reunion in Toronto; Heather McAlpine, Heather Wyllie, Ann Rice, Betsy Johnston, and Felicity Smith, all of the Class of 1967, toasting to absent friends at their 50th reunion lunch at the Sea Glass Waterfront Grill; Brenda (Keddie) Sorley, KHC’56, and Gillian “Jill” Stainforth, KHC’65, connected by happenstance at a luncheon; Ladies of KHC Class of 1969 celebrated their 50th reunion last September.
River this summer which like so many other events, had been cancelled.”
Gillian “Jill” Stainforth, KHC’65
Part way through a recent luncheon Jill and Brenda (Keddie) Sorley, KHC’56, who were sitting next to each other, discovered they were both KHC Old Girls. Small world!
KHC Class of 1967
In November, the KHC Class of 1967 gathered in Ottawa to celebrate their 53rd reunion. Janet Turcot Vukovic was in attendance to present the ladies with their 50th anniversary scarves and to give an update on the school
and how KHC still remains an important part of BCS to this day. It was lovely to catch up with all of you—thank you for joining us!
KHC Class of 1968
Submitted by Kathy (Winser) Robertson, KHC’68 “For two days in October, 14 ladies of the KHC Class of 1968 reunited in Toronto to celebrate 51 years post-graduation. WOW— what a time and what a class we were (and are)! Several ladies live in Toronto or close by and the rest of us drove, trained, or flew in from the United Kingdom, Tennessee, the Maritimes, Saskatchewan, Montreal, Connecticut, and Seattle.
It was wonderful to begin reconnecting with each other at Fiona’s warm and inviting home. A big thanks to her for hosting a fabulous and yummy dinner which she and Jeffie provided. BJ and Pam ensured that we didn’t miss dessert—Mr. Burt’s chocolate sauce is always a hit! Face-timing with Harps (in New Zealand) was a bonus, the many bottles of vino….continuous laughter… countless stories that only get better, reciting of Gilly’s sayings and some sort of rendition of “40 Years On” (poor neighbours) WHAT A NIGHT!
Oughtred chose a perfect place for lunch on Thursday and stories and laughter
continued! Janet Turcot Vukovic, joined us to relay the news and updates regarding BCS and also what was happening with the KHC buildings. She also distributed the beautiful KHC Old Girl scarves. KO and Steph K got the award for best way to wear them!!
The bond created all those years ago certainly was rekindled during our few days together. Here is to an inspiring group of women who not only WERE my classmates but also ARE my friends for making our 51st Reunion such a memorable time.”
KHC Class of 1969
Members of the Class of 1969 gathered in early September to celebrate their 50th reunion. Spearheaded by Margot (Graham) Heyerhoff, Rhona (Sewell) Halpern, Deborah “Debbie” Hornig, and Jane Meagher, the ladies travelled from near and far to reunite for a weekend of friendship, remembrance, and memory-making at Margot’s Gillygooly Farm. The weekend was full of activities and included a visit to King’s Hall, Compton and BCS.
Jane Meagher, KHC’69
“It was a fun day and very interesting for the girls to visit BCS, especially some who had never been since the school became co-ed. Thanks for everything you did to help organize our weekend. Special moments, including Jean getting ready to serve 21 women who got together in North Hatley to celebrate 50 years since graduation from high school at Kings Hall, Compton. I think everyone had a truly wonderful weekend and the scarves were really appreciated by all.”
Janus Fox, BCS’75
“I am living in Ottawa where I am retired from my hectic career in the high-tech industry. My focus now is covering off my adventure bucket list which unfortunately is temporarily on hold these days due to COVID-19. I find many similarities of what
we are experiencing today with self-isolation and what we experienced at the school when the War Measures Act that Pierre Trudeau invoked in 1970 as a result of political kidnappings by the FLQ in the province of Quebec. As a result of the War Measures Act and the many concerns with safety, the school was put in lock down mode from October to December and we weren’t allowed to leave campus. It is times like this that I learned more about self-reliance and the importance of friendships and school activities. Although over time these friendships have drifted apart, I still have fond school activity remembrances, such as: Mountain Climbing, Tea Dances at BCS, Form Parties, BCS Carnival weekends, and ‘Sugaring-Off’ to name a few. These were great times.
In October 2017 while on vacation, my husband and I stopped in for a visit to BCS where Susan Cook kindly took us on a tour and I was able to sneak a peek at my old room in the Gillard House residence. Susan also arranged a meet up with Mrs. Holland who taught me Spanish at KHC. It was a wonderful reunion. Following that we went over to Compton to see the old KHC building. It was an enjoyable visit and so good to relive some fond memories of school days gone by.
Besides school roots in the Eastern Townships there is also some family history, so we plan to visit again. I would love to reconnect with my former school mates to reminisce and share stories and can be reached at janusmfox@gmail.com. In the meantime, be well and stay safe.”
Above: Janus Fox, BCS’75, stopped in for a visit to BCS in October 2017, catching up with past KHC teacher, Mrs. Holland. Below: Twenty-one ladies from the Class of 1969 got together in North Hatley to celebrate 50 years since graduation.
From the ar C hives
A year for the books
by Merrylou Smith, Archivist
COVID-19 was not the first disease epidemic to wreak havoc in the lives of students. KHC students expressed their feelings about being infected with measles and mumps in yearbook entries. They say laughter is the best medicine and these girls did their best to lighten the burden of affliction. Here are some humourous reflections from the past about their experiences.
F are thee well
Alice (Ross) Aird, KHC’45
December 31, 1928 – October 10, 2019
Alice Evelyn Aird (née Ross) Passed away peacefully after a long illness in the Avalon Care Center in Orangeville, ON. She was born in Quebec City on December 31, 1928, the second child of Gordon and Kathleen Ross. She moved to Montreal after high school and met Peter John Aird, BCS’44, the love of her life. They married in 1951 and had three children: Janet, Robert and Brian. She loved her family and was loved in return. She worked hard to support Peter’s career. She found joy in tennis, bridge, travel, business and politics, and she was an active volunteer in the community. She had an abiding faith in God. Alice is survived by her husband of 68 years; her three children, seven grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren; and her brother Robert Ross. She will be missed but the memories are strong and will continue living in the hearts of those whose lives she touched. We thank Judy McCracken, Candace Skinner, the Avalon, the Alzheimer Society of Dufferin County, and the many others who supported Alice through her long and trying illness. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer Society.
Kate (Molson) Seiler, KHC’53
– April 15, 2020
On April 15, 2020 Kate passed away at home after a short battle with cancer. She was the daughter of Clair (nee Jeffery) and Stuart Molson and predeceased by her sister Lucy and husbands Stirling Moss and Don Seiler. She will be missed by her nieces and nephews Cindy (Ian) Derek, Peter (Micki) and Jill, great-nieces and nephews Jeffery (Dalida), Katie, Alex, Tory, David and Nicolas as well as stepchildren Christian and Lance Seiler. Kate was a free spirit and settled in Nassau spending the next 60 years there fully embracing the culture and the people. Kate never sought praise or the spotlight for the acts of kindness she performed; some of the charities that she supported were The Tara Xavier Hepburn
Foundation, the Bahamas Humane Society and Operation Potcake. It was a common sight to see Kate driving around town throwing dog biscuits to the potcakes at the side of the road or in the Super Value parking lot. She loved to support local artists and musicians and helped revive the Jazz scene in 2005 supporting bands like Jazz etc. In 2015, Kate moved back to Montreal and this was an opportunity for the family’s fourth generation to spend time with the “Kate” they had heard so much about. She was independent, principled and above all stubborn!! She was quick to help others but never accepted help herself. At an age when most people would say “I’ve done my bit, let someone else volunteer”, she was still going down to Chez Doris women’s shelter, twice a week, to serve lunches to between 60 - 80 women. Kate loved the outdoors, enjoying skeet shooting and fly fishing with her father. She returned regularly to the Godbout River to salmon fish with FS, Lucy, cousins Stephen and the Rat. In skeet shooting she represented the Bahamas at the Canadian Open in St. Janvier and in Puerto Rico. In the clay pigeon shooting sequence of the James Bond movie Thunderball in 1965, she was the shooter making Sean Connery look like a pro.Kate made an impression wherever she went. She will be missed by so many friends and family for her joie de vivre, good sense of humour and generous spirit. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Chez Doris, www.chezdoris.org.
Barbara (Hyman) Maclaren, KHC’54 1936– May 8, 2020
It is with great sadness that our beloved mother, Barbara C. Maclaren has passed away at the age of 83 on May 8, 2020 in Montreal. Barbara was born and raised in Gaspe, Quebec to Percival G. Hyman and Mabel I. (Reynolds). She attended school at King’s Hall, Compton and Bishop’s College before entering nursing school at the Montreal General Hospital. After she married and had three daughters, she returned to
school at Concordia University to attain her BA in Psychology and later with great pride graduated with her M.Ed. in Counselling from McGill University. Barbara enjoyed a career as a Professional Counsellor working for various school boards in the Montreal area, recognized for her testing of youth to identify learning challenges, as well as being in private practice. In addition to her career, Barbara was involved with many boards and charitable organizations as well as having a great love and talent for her many creative interests. Barbara was predeceased by her beloved husband of 52 years William J. Maclaren, her parents, her sister Phyllis Townley (Bruce), brother Bud Hyman (Anne) and brother-in-law Jock Maclaren. She is survived and will be forever cherished by her daughters, Heather (Ajay), Catherine, and Judith. She will be dearly missed by her brother Major David Hyman (Helgard), sister-in-law Margaret Maclaren, nine nieces and nephews, and seven greatnieces and nephews. Barbara will always be remembered for her beautiful spirit, devotion to family and friends, kindness, generosity, zest for life—including her Zsa Zsa ‘sparkle,’ sense of humour, that wonderful twinkle in her eye, and her smile which lit up everyone who encountered it. If so desired, memorial tributes may be made to the Montreal General Hospital Foundation. Condolences may be offered to mountroyalcem.com/index.php/en/onlinememorials.html.
Leslie “Lali” (Kennedy) Jones, KHC’57 March 7, 1940– January 2, 2019
Died suddenly at the age of 78 at the Jewish General Hospital. Mother, grandmother, wife, sister, aunt, friend, artist, and educator, Lali wore many different hats. Her joyous laugh and large smile lit up every room she entered whether in Westmount, SaintAdolphe, Morin Heights, Ste Agathe, or the many places she travelled. Lali is survived by her three daughters Jennifer (Tim Frantz), Meredith, Tamara (Tristan Barr), and her five
grandchildren Samantha, Allison, Kirsten, Phoenix, and Cora. She was predeceased by her husband Dick and her beloved sisters Nan and Shirley. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Westben Arts Theatre westben.ca/donate with “In Memory of Lali Jones” in the program line.
Caroline (Massey) McLimont, KHC’60 April 4, 1946 – May 17, 2020
Caroline Lillias Massey, aged 74, died peacefully in her sleep at Northumberland Hills Hospital in Cobourg on May 17, 2020. Born in Birmingham, Alabama on April 4, 1946 to Melodie Frances Willis-O’Connor and Roland Fields Crisson; she was adopted by her stepfather Hart Massey, architect and son of Govenor General Vincent Massey after Melodie and Hart were married in 1947. A bon vivant with a gypsy spirit, she lived in London, England and Trieste, Italy during the sixties, before opening her high-end fashion store, Justine, in Ottawa. After a decade of dressing many of Ottawa’s finest, including Margaret Trudeau, Caroline moved to Toronto where she became a commercial wardrobe stylist working on advertising campaigns, music videos and television shows. Much in demand, she was known as Princess Carolina within the industry. She knew how to make clothes look right for her clients who delighted in being dressed by her. But most of all Caroline loved the company of others. She was a fabulous cook, threw many glamorous and often wild parties, loved fun and laughter and cared deeply about her friends. She was never happier than after having cooked a superb meal, accompanied by lots of wine, when she was able to kick back with a Flaming Sambuca and really enjoy those dearest to her. As her energy diminished and working as a stylist in Toronto became too demanding, she retired to Port Hope. Although her life in a small Ontario town was far less boisterous, she remained, with her big hair, brightly polished nails and her storied past, La Princesse. She is survived by her brother, the artist, John Massey, her beloved cat Kung Foo and the enduring love of her many friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Northumberland Humane Society in Port
Hope at www.rossfuneralchapel.com. A celebration of life will be organized later in the summer.
Jennifer Lois Byers, KHC’66
December 18, 1950 – April 28, 2019
Jennifer Lois Byers, age 68, of Bowen Island, British Columbia passed away on Sunday April 28, 2019. Jennifer was born December 18, 1950. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MeM.com for the Byers family.
Patricia Ann “Pam” (Morgan) Candlish, KHC’66
June 18, 1949 – January 8, 2019
She died peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family on January 8, 2019 after a long battle with Huntington’s Disease. She was a strong, independent woman, born in Montreal, Quebec June 18, 1949 to Ivy Senkler and Dr. George Morgan. Pam is survived by her husband of 46 Years, Ross, her four children Tiffany, Barbara (Keith), William (Melissa), and Reid (Bonnie). She will always be remembered by her three grandchildren: Jonathan, Erica, and Roberta. Pam was predeceased by her sisters Mary-Jean (Hugh), Joan, and her brother Bob Morgan. A graduate of McGill University, Pam earned a Master’s Degree in Library Sciences. Pam was an author, teacher, webmaster, artist, environmentalist, gardener, photographer, cancer survivor, and an accomplished musician. She loved dogs, chocolate, coffee, and had a legendary passion for road trips. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Huntington Society at huntingtonsociety.ca
King’s Hall, Compton was more than a school. It was a community of caring teachers, dedicated staff, and inquisitive students who built its rich history. Today, the legacy of that history lives on at Bishop’s College School.
As part of an initiative in our Alumni Office, we want to celebrate the stories of our alumni, starting with our KHC girls, in an ongoing effort to build the body of archival materials about life at KHC and BCS.
But we can’t do it alone! We would love to hear your stories about your time at KHC and learn about the memories you hold dear. Whether it’s a story about order marks, French class with Mlle Cailteux, or the infamous ‘croc walks,’ we want to hear it all. To find out how you can share your story with us, please email alumni@bishopscollegeschool.com or call 819.566.0227 x253.
Photos
King’s Hall, Compton