Snapshot of King Edward's Through History Hambledon Workhouse General View In 1941, eighty years ago, King Edward’s left Witley and relocated to Hambledon following the Admiralty’s requisition of the School’s buildings during World War II. Renamed A.S.E. Witley (Admiralty Signals Establishment), also known as HMS Mercury, the site was crucial in the development of naval radar and welcomed eminent young scientists to lead the research to further the war effort. The phrase that emanates the School’s significance in the development of naval radar is “The battle of the Atlantic was won on the playing fields of Witley.” The School’s Governors decided to relocate to Hambledon, rather than closing altogether, in order to maintain the education of 120 boys, a reduction from the 280 boys studying prior to 1941. Thankfully, the Admiralty allowed the School to continue using two playing fields and the chapel, as the facilities at the Hambledon site, a former workhouse, did not match those at the Witley site. This photo provides a glimpse into the changed environment for King Edward’s pupils between 1941 and 1949.
Help the Archivist The School's Archivist, Miss Tarabella Ward, is attempting to log all the photos currently in our archives but she requires the help of our eagle-eyed Old Witleians to compile the correct details. If you have any helpful information regarding the photos that follow, email Miss Ward on OldWitleians@kesw.org. She would be happy to receive any photos OWs have of their school days, in particular photos of the girls sports teams. Send high resolution scans or post the hard copy of the photo. If you would like us to return your photo after adding it to our archives, please indicate this in your correspondence.
Edward House Winning House Music 1965-1966 Old Witleians have commented on Edward House’s prolific victories in House Music and House Sport Competitions over the years, and here is a photo recorded in the archives of Edward House winning the House Music Competition in the 60s. We believe the year to be either 1965 or 1966, but can you pinpoint the exact year? Can you identify the musicians? Please email us to share your memories! 26
