This film is one of four shot by Richard Wheeler (Priory, 1948-52) and Allen Whittaker (Priory, 1948-50). Richard had, we understand, the only surviving copies of these films and he kindly copied and sent them to Allen Whittaker, who then passed them on to Roger Gallannaugh.
This particular film shows the celebrations on Corpus Christi Day 1950 when the School celebrated the 400th anniversary of its re-foundation in 1550. The School had been founded, of course, in 1519 under the aegis of the Abbot of Bruton but when the Abbey was dissolved in 1539, the School’s endowments were confiscated and the School ceased to be active. Following a petition to Edward VI, signed by many local residents of Bruton, the endowments were restored and the King issued a Charter of Re-foundation).
Some interesting things to note in the film are:
- An early scene in the film shows boys in Priory House garden. The House, now a girls’ House, had been established in 1943.
- Boys are seen crossing Priory footbridge into school. This bridge was damaged subsequently during a serious flood, and was replaced by the wooden bridge we use today.
- You will notice that New House in 1950 had a covering of ivy, and the wall in front of the House was much higher then.
- The Memorial Hall was just 26 years old in 1950.
- Blackford House was not built until 1960, and you will notice part of a Nissen hut in what is now Blackford House’s front garden.
- Similarly, there was no Fitzjames Sports Hall and Theatre (built in 1979). Instead, you can see the old gymnasium and separate CCF armoury (both built in 1921).
- The School procession crossing the road and into the churchyard prior to the Commemoration Service does not look very different today. The wearing of buttonholes has been a tradition since the 19th century. Some Old Boys might be able to spot themselves and they will certainly be able to pick out the Headmaster, Geoffrey Sale, and other members of staff, including the Chaplain, Kenneth Ashcroft, Lamont Kennaway, Jock Moreton, Donald Richardson and John Tyndall. As many as four bishops attended the Service – the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Bishop of North Queensland (who preached the sermon), the Bishop of Taunton, and the retired Bishop of Trinidad.
- Drinks following the church service were held on the Headmaster’s Lawn between Old House and New House – just as they are today.
Andrew Leach - School Archivist
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