History of the Association
The Years Roll On
Mr Brebner, Rector, proposed that the Association should set up a system of what he called ‘Consulships’, which he described as being ‘in vogue in some schools’. In 1929 the Association proceeded with the appointment of ‘Consuls’ in various centres. Intriguingly, the records do not show who these people were, where the centres were located, or what the role of a ‘Consul’ was!
At the April meeting of the Association in 1929, sympathy was expressed at the passing of the former Rector, Mr D M J James. Sincere regrets were expressed about ‘the great loss the Association had sustained by the passing of so brilliant a personality.’
At the meeting of 19 November 1929, after considerable discussion, colours were chosen for the Association. Material showing a design in four colours had been received. The main colour was green, with thin stripes of red, black and yellow. Mr Murray, Draper was asked to procure sample ties in cotton.
In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the difference in handwriting between those writing the minutes is striking. Some styles of script are crisp, stylish and clear. There are artistic flourishes of the fountain pen in capital letters.
This clarity gives way to minutes written in a script that is angular, jagged, and hard to decipher! Education was not always better in the old days!
The script of the minute secretary in 1934 was immaculately formed… linked handwriting, with copperplate clarity. These minutes advise that a combined military whist drive and dance had proved to be a popular event.
In 1934, membership stood at 639. There were 65 Life Members, 557 Ordinary Members and 17 Honorary members.
Charitable gifts continued to be made, arising from funds generated by these and other events. A donation of five guineas was made to the King George Jubilee Trust.
Sympathy for the death of members was expressed, including tributes to Mr George Brander, Honorary President. Mr William Will, London, was elected Honorary President to replace him.
The rhythm of the years continued unabated. Annual reunions were held, in the form of military whist drives and dances. Lists of gentlemen were drawn up to equalise the numbers of both sexes at dances.
One act plays were presented in the Stewart’s Hall. The Arts League of Service Travelling Theatre Company was hired to perform in Huntly.
Accounts were audited. Funds were disbursed. Sports prizes were presented. Academic prizes were awarded. Christmas treats were arranged for school pupils. Miss M Lobban continued to edit the highly successful annual magazine. Concerns were expressed, as ever, about high printing costs.
A sum of £34 was raised by the Dramatic Club and donated to the Lord Provost’s Infirmary Appeal Fund. A team from the club reached the Divisional Final of the Scottish Community Drama Festival.
By 1937 membership had grown again and stood at 699.
The final page of the first log book of minutes of general meetings ends with Mr James Hynd, President of the Association, signing off the book with a flourish.