Blasts from the Past: Season’s Greetings!

As we edge ever closer to the festive season, I feel very lucky to have received so many presents already! After every one of these eBulletins is sent, several OKs have taken the time to get in touch and share their memories of King’s with me–some even sending me film footage, which has been a real treat to watch. Every new story I am told gives me a better understanding of King’s over the years–how it has changed and how it has stayed the same. It is not just about information gathering, these conversations give me a special insight into life at King’s, and into life in general during previous decades. This is almost impossible to glean from paper archival records alone. Facts matter, but it is the human aspect of history to which most of us are drawn. Donations to the archive, including pieces of uniform, school reports and photographs, have also been pouring in. I am incredibly grateful for all of your support; thank you.

In return, I am sharing this delightful Christmas card from the school archive. It was made by Brian Rust, who left King’s in 1955. He was head boy, played for the 1st XV team and secured his athletics colours. He also found the time to be part of the Art Society Press. Established by Robert Holloway in 1951, the ASP crafted not only a series of wonderfully creative and innovative books but also produced illustrated catalogues, concert tickets and programmes, posters, and Christmas cards (I am told to generate income to help pay for equipment). This particular card is not marked as being the work of the Press, and the way the tips of the holly leaves on the right have been sliced off is not in-keeping with the professionalism of the ASP’s output in general. Nevertheless, I find it a joyful image and it speaks to Brian Rust’s talent as a printmaker.

The work of the ASP is one of my favourite parts of the school archive collection. I have already spoken to some former pupils who were involved with the Press and would love to chat with others. It would be fantastic to arrange a mini-reunion and look at the books together!

Lucy Inglis | School Archivist