History lives in us. History lives in our things.
In the summer heat of 1922, in the foothills east of Los Angeles, the fortunes
of generations were put in play when Thompson Webb came to Claremont to
start a school. Personal letters and telegrams were composed and posted. Loan
documents were signed. Arrangements were finalized and his new venture begun.
To celebrate The Centennial Years and memorialize Webb’s improbable journey,
we share a catalogue of objects that speak of the struggle to survive and succeed,
to triumph—objects minor, middling and some even monumental.
It was no small proposition to found a school here among scrub and sage and
derelict buildings in 1922, especially one conceived outside the norm—one that
would put honor and acting with moral courage above all else. Certainly, given
these unusual times, it is no small proposition to launch Webb into its next 100
years. We celebrate the special, caring and courageous Webb community, and
your commitment always to carrying on.
