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Vol. 60 No. 1 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. May, 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

First Baseball Victory

May 8 is a day to remember! Our
baseball team, the first to represent the
School in interscholastic competition,
won its first game! The boys defeated
the varsity team from Cambridge School
of Weston. Previously the boys had lost
to Milton Academy jv, Brooks School jv,
Rivers Country Day School, and Noble
and Greenough jv. Now that the victory
column is reached things appear much
brighter for our team.

Winter Storms Raise Havoc

The winter storms caused havoc with
our dikes and waterfront. Some of the
damage has been repaired, but there is
still a great deal to be done. Tons of
heavy debris were washed over our wharf,
wrecking our electric and oil pipe lines,
as well as tearingthe wharf rails from their
supports. It will be some time before we
will be able to completely repair the heavy
damage done by these numerous storms,
but we are progressing with the more im-
portant parts of the job.

Parents Council Organized

There has been organized recently a
Parents Council, which we know will be
of great value in promoting a warm, close
relationship among the pupils, parents
and stafT at the School. This closer re-
lationship will vitally aid in giving a
keener understanding of the many school

problems which arise in the day by day
school life of our boys. The Council
holds monthly meetings, with its president,
Elmer Kicks, in the chair.

The Faneuil Hall Concert

The Annual Spring Concert of the
school Band was given in Faneuil Hall
on Sunday April 29, before an enthusi-
astic audience. Our genial band director,
Frank L. Warren, was assisted by three
guest conductors, and those who came ex-
pecting a fine performance were certainly
not disappointed.

The program was carefully chosen to
represent a wide variety of musical corri-
positions. Serious, light and novelty
selections were included. Four of the
boys played solos with band accompani-
ment, and each did a masterful job.

Howard B. Ellis, '98, our former
bandmastej, was introduced by Mr.
Warren. He spoke of his days at the
School, and commended the boys on
their fine musicianship. Emmanuel La-
Rue, the second guest conductor, spoke
of his interest in the band and led the
boys in the "Salutation" March, the
music being from his personal library,
which he had presented as a gift to our
band. W. Marshall Hall, '26, was another
guest conductor. He is well known in
Boston professional music circles as a
conductor and music administrator.
Please turn to Page 2

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Chompson's Island Beacon

Published Monthly by

THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL

Thompsoa's Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 1

May 1956

Subscription Price - •

- One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred C. Malm. Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expire. 1957
G»orge P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Terra Expires 1959
Lcverett Saltonstall
Moses Williams

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

The greatest need of the world to-day
'\% the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
•ervice, the basic development plan at our
homeichool. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve his goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

Editorial

"Birds of a feather flock together" is
a well known proverb and generally
proves a point, — that people group to-
gether according to their likes and dislikes.
In youth it is very important that we select
companions carefully.

Your closest companion is yourself.
He is the one who knows everything you
do, and is always with you. He knows
when you play the game fairly, and when
you don't. It pays to think often of the
line, "I wantto be fit for myself to know."
Shakespeare, in one of his plays, stated
substantially the same thought when he
wrote that when you are true to yourself
you cannot be false to any man.

Then look to yourself first. Be sure
you are the sort of lad you want to be
friendly with. Then, in picking your
friends, choose those who fit your pattern.
It is mandatory that you develop the prac-
tice of choosing the right friends. How
can you make friends? By being one
yourself. By wanting to help others. By
doing your best to further any enterprise
in which you are a part, be it a class ac-
tivity or the baseball nine. By thinking
first, last and always of the team, of which
you are a part, and not of yourself.

Continued from Page 1

We appreciate very much the atten-
dance of each member of the audience.
The weather was damp and dismal, and
many made a special effort to be on
hand. Nothing inspires and helps the
boys with their music as much as the interest
of such a wonderful audience.

The program, and roster of the
Bund, follows:

PROGRAM

March— Chief of Staff Rosekrans

Overture— Day of Youth Fulton

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Trumpet Solo— The Wanderer
Loren E. Cain

Selection -Sullivan's Opera Gems

ClarinetSolo— David Polka Albee

Barry R. Fuller

Trombone Solo— Aloha Oe
William F. James

March — Our Director Harlow

Tuba Solo— In the Cradle of the Deep
Thomas Angelos

Overture— Prince and Jester Taylor

Selection— Golden Days King

Novelty—

Farm and Trades School Has a Band

March— Foodifter Fillmore

Star Spangled Banner

Roster of the Band

Maior Frank L. Warren, Conductor
Clarinets Trombones

Daniel W. Dockham William H. Cain

Barry R. Fuller William F. James

Walter H. Morse Basil T. Veglas

Donald G. Oke
Ronald L. Zisk Drums

Douglas V. Briggs
Terry A. Cobb
Cornets Richard B. Pulsifer

Loren E. Cain Donald E. Robicheau

Malcolm Cameron, Jr. Steven R. Wellington
Earl A. Chamberlain
John W. Cronin Altos

David E. Picks William H. Horn

Gregory F. Ford Carleton Skinner, Jr.

Kenneth D, Ford Michael C. Veglas

Robert H. Grignon Thomas J. Walker

George E. Hodson Basses

Thomas Angelos
Baritone John E. Lennon

Albert K. Ellis Saxophone

George D. McPeek
Daniel J. Iresou, Band Secretary

Topics in Brief

We present this month an abridged
version of the BEACON. We hope to
gradually evolve the publication into a

more modern, efficient school journal.
This paper was first published 60 years ago,
and its format has not changed during the
years. We now feel that the BEACON can
best serve its purpose by streamlining and
modernization, and are aiming at that
goal.

A Thompson's Island program was
given at the April meeting of the East
Boston Kiwanis Club. Our Director of
Admissions. Ralph E. Stevens, addressed
the group and told of plans for the im-
mediate future of our School. He was
assisted by Clifton E. Albee, who showed
colored slides of school activities and
answered questions. It was a fine meeting
and we thank the Club for inviting us to
tell our story.

The boys have enjoyed numerous
trips to Boston for various purposes re-
cently. Several have gone to the movies
as room prize awards. Others attended
the Motorama spectacle. Another group
visited the Navy Yard, and another toured
the Schuster Woolen Mills in East
Douglas.

Our farm has been busy this spring
getting the land ready for seeding. Mr.
Steves, our farm instructor, is being
assisted by a few of the older boys, who
have a flair for farm work. The milk
production from our herd has been in-
creased noticeably by the use of a special
feed formula. New equipment, purchased
at substantial cost, permits the elimination
of outmoded labor practices, and greatly
aids in our farm work.

The Pilgrim III is being given a
thorough overhauling. The good ship
has had a hard winter, and needs much
vital work done on her. The boat is 22
years old, and when our painting crew
finish their work she will appear as neat
and trim as the day she slid down the
ways at Wiscasset, Maine.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Che Blumni flssociation of Che farm and trades School

William C. Burni. '37, President

No. Wilmington. Mast.
OoMALD S. MacPherson '17, TreMurer
Wollattoo, Mats.

John E. Kervin,
Brighton,

'20. Vice President
Masa.

George O. Poole. '27, Secretny
Medford. Mass.
G. George Larsson, '17. Historiao
Hyde Paris. Mass.

The Band enjoyed a treat long to be
remembered recently, when the boys
attended a concert given by the Harvard
University Band, in Symphony Hall.
Tickets for the occasion were paid for by
a friend who wishes to remain anonymous,
andto whom the boys want to say sincerely.
"Thanks very much." It was a grand
experience for our band members.

The band has had a busy time. On
April 20 the boys played a concert for the
Taleb Grotto of Quincy. The musician-
ship of the boys was applauded heartily
by the several hundred Masons present,
and at the close of the concert a standing
ovation was given the boys. On April 29
the Faneuil Hall concert, the 20th in the
series of annual events, was a great success.
On May 5 the boys took part in the
Northeastern Mass. School Music Festival
at Watertown, and on May 12 they
joined with thousands of other high
school youngsters in a similar regional
event at Ncedham. The Band is looking
forward to participation in a civic
observance on Memorial Day, which will
give the boys the opportunity to hear the
famous U. S. Marine Band from Wash-
ington, which will take part in the same
event.

In order to improve our kitchen
facilities, and to aid in more efficient and
economical operation of this very impor-
tant department, we have made a sub-
stantial investment in new equipment. A
Savory toaster, two Garland grills and a
combination cofTee and tea urn have
recently been installed. We have plans
for additional new equipment for ourfood

service unit and it is our hope to com-
pletely modernize the department. With
food a necessary very expensive item,
every step we can take to improve quality
and lower costs is of major importance.

News of the Alumni
S. Newcomb Graham, '54, had
the pleasure of seeing one of his news
photographs appear on the front page of
the Quincy Patriot- Ledger very recently.
One seldom sees Newcomb without his
camera! He is a senior in Quincy High
School. His address: 343 Rock Island
Road. Quincy, Mass.

Frank N. Babick, '45, is alumni
representative of his class at Mount Her-
mon School. Frank is presently a student
at Northeastern University.

We note, with sadness, the passing of
Frank W. Wallace, '81, on May 11,
at Wolfeboro, N. H. He was a devoted
alumnus and will be sorely missed. Our
sympathies are extended the family.

S-Sgt. William D. DeLorie, '37,
is stationed in French Morocco, where
he is a supervisor and organizer of athlet-
ic programs and events for men of the
U. S. A. F. in that area. His work has
taken him to Turkey, Greece. Italy, Ger-
many, France and Spain. He writes that
conditions are relatively quiet now, but
no one can be certain of prolonged peace.
He recently met S-Sgt. William L. Little-
john, '36, USAF, who is also on duty in
Morocco. Sgt. DeLorie's address is AF
11051488, Hq. 17th AF, APO 18, New
York. N. Y.

Reginald D. Randall, '32. joined
our staff this month as Groundsman.

Vol. 60 No. 2 Printed at The Farm and Trades School, Boston, Mass. June, 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Secoad Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

Mr. Kihlstrom Retires
Mr. B. Y. Kihlstrom came to our
School in 1919 and has served as Sloyd
instructor since that time. He tendered
his resignation to become efifective at the
close of this academic year. It was with
regret that our Board of Trustees accepted
this decision, for Mr. Kihlstrom's devotion
to duty and his superlative teaching skill
are simply unparallelled.

Generations of Thompson's Island
boys will feel a tug at their hearts as they
learn that Mr. Kihlstrom is no longer on
our staff. A sloyd instructor without peer,
he has also played a most important part
in the everyday lives of hundreds of our
boys by his active interest in a'll phases of
their school life. A Christian gentleman,
scholar, craftsman and musician, his daily
influence in the cultural lives of our boys
has been of supreme importance.

At the annual luncheon of the alumni
association on June 9, Mr. Calvin Page
Bartlett, President of the Board of Trus-
tees, stated in a letter which was read to
the alumni, that everyone at the School
realized full well Mr. Kihlstrom's great
contribution to the lives of generations of
Thompson's Island boys. Mr. Bardett ex-
pressed the warm appreciation of the
Board to Mr. Kihlstrom for his long per-
iod of devoted service to The Farm and
Trades School. The trustees presented

Mr. Kihlstrom with a substantial retire-
ment check.

Mr. Kihlstrom will now have oppor-
tunity to do many things which time has
never permitted. We know that his re-
tirement years will be busy, happy and
fruitful. We wish him good fortune.

Memorial Day

Our services for Memorial Day be-
gan with an impressive Chapel program
on the Sunday preceding the holiday.
This was held under the direction of Mr.
Kehew, who had the assistance of the
following boys:

James Robbins and George Hodson
led the Flag Salute; Barry Fuller read
Governor Herter's Proclamation; Ken-
neth Ford recited the "Gettysburg
Address;" John Conibellack recited "In
Flander's Fields," and Richard Dey read
"I have a Rendezvous with Death." Mr.
Kehew had an inspiring address, in which
he included the reading of the names of
our boys who were lost in World War II.
Prayers, special music and the singing of
appropiate hymns were included in the
order of worship.

On the holiday those who were at
the school decorated the graves at our
little south end cemetery. An account of
those who lie there was read, and prayeis
were offered. Because of the inclement

Please turn to Page 2

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

CDompson's Tsland Beacon

Published Monthly by

THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL

Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 2

June 1956

Subscription Price

- One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred G. Malm, Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expires 1957
George P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditcb
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williams

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

The greatest need of the world to-day
is the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
service, the basic development plan at our
home school. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve his goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

Editorial

A scene which always gives a genuine
thrill is the warm handclasp of thecaptains
of rival athletic teams just before a game.
We have cornea long way from the prim-
itive ways of the cave man era, and it
would be wise for every young lad to
ponder the value of acquiring high stand-
ards of courtesy. The handshake is a
symbol of the gentleman and true sports-
man.

One may be possessed of greater than
average intelligence. He may be a great
worker, industrious and persevering in
all ways. He may be skilled in many
fields. But if his manners are offensive,
and he is not a gentleman, he will find
the path to success mighty difficult.

The lad who is a gentleman will al-
ways respect the rights of others. He will
check an angry word or hasty action
because he does not want to ofTend
another. He has developed self control,
and has confidence in his strength and
manliness so that he can not act any other
way than as a gentleman.

It is an excellent idea to observe the
conduct of those one admires, be they
young or old. Why are they held in such
esteem? Because they are gentlemen.
They unfailingly show good will towards
others. They make life easier and pleas-
anter for everyone.

Real courtesy is not merely a surface
shine. It goes deep into one's heart and
conscience. It involves thinking of
opportunities to be of service to others,
to be kind to others, or in short, to have
the attributes of real sportsmen and
gentlemen.

Continued from Page 1

weather the remainder of the service was
held in the chapel. Psalms loved by all
were read, and hymns dedicated to the
day sung. Prayers, the salute to our Flag

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

led by Howard Murphy, and Taps,
played by William Dickens and Robert
Hane8, concluded the service.

Parents Council Attends Smorgasbord

The Parents Council, which was or-
ganized early this spring, has made a good
start in promoting a close, warm spirit of
cooperation between the parents, admin-
istrative, academic and general staffs of
the School. This fine start presages a grand
year for the Council when school reopens
in September. All of the parents are in-
vited and urged to become active members
of the Council.

A smorgasbord was tendered the boys
and their parents by the School on June
3. It was planned to have this event held
at a picnic area on the beach, but the
weather made it necessary to hold the
party indoors. The dining room in
Bowditch was utilized. Mr. Pearl wel-
comed the group, and Mr. Ficks, Pres-
ident of the Council, spoke briefly
stressing the purposes of the Council.

A varied and tasty menu was prepared
by our chef, Mr. Cox, and his staff and
served under the direction of our dining
room supervisor, Mr. Evans. Two hun-
dred enjoyed a fine meal, served in a
happy, informal style. The menu included
roast turkey, Virginia ham, baked beans,
Swedish meat cakes, seafood newburg,
and assorted cold cuts served with salads
and relishes. There were six desserts, in-
cluding the ever popular apple pie and
ice cream.

Following dinner our guests enjoyed
themselves informally. A movie was
shown as an entertainment feature. The
party will be remembered as a very pleas-
ant occasion, and an excellent way to
round out the school year.

The Band Scores Another Triumph
On Memorial Day, while the boys at
the school were holding services, our

Band was taking an important part in the
holiday observance held by four veterans
organizations, headed by the Old Dor-
chester Post of the American Legion. The
weather, unfortunately, was miserable;
yet the complete parade and cemetery
service was held as scheduled. The
principal memorial service honoring the
dead of our Nation's wars was held at the
Cedar Grove Cemetery, the orator being
the Hon. Patrick J. McDonough.

Following the parade the Band en-
joyed dinner in the Post Hall. There
were 125 present at the dinner, including
Mayor Hynes, several members of the
General Court, members of the Gov-
ernor's Council, members of the Boston
School Committee, and many others who
hold important posts in our city and
state government structure. Mayor Hynes
was the speaker at the Dinner, and gave
a masterful oration on our hopes for the
future, made possible by those who have
given their lives that we may continue to
enjoy the glorious benefits of American
democracy.

It was a fine experience for our Band
and we met many important personages,
all of whom spoke highly of the Band,
and of our Thompson's Island school.

Student Council Dance

The Student Council, under the di-
rection of its president, Steven R. Well-
ington, held a dance on the evening of
May 25. Music was furnished by William
R. Reeves, '26, and his orchestra. The
boys invited their girl friends, and some
of the parents acted as chaperons. The
assembly hall was gaily decorated. Plans
were carefully made for the dance, and
the Council did a grand job in running a
fine party with a minimum of adult super-
vision. The committee appreciates very
much the help of staff members, and, of
course, the music of Mr. Reeves.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

ZU JWmm J!$$ociation of Cbe farm and Cradcs School

William C. Burn*. '37. President John E. Kervin.

No. Wilrainfton. Mass. Brighton,

Donald S. MacPherion '17, Tressiirer
Wallaitoa, Miss.

'20, Vice President
Mass.

George O. Poole. "27. Secreiaiy
Medford. Mass.
G. George Larsson, '17, Historian
Hyde Park. Mass,

Alumni Field Day

The annual alumni field day was held
at the School on June 9. The inclement
weather forced most of the activities in-
doors, yet the 200 present enjoyed a happy
time of fellowship. An excellent lunch,
served by our chef, Mr. Cox, and his boys,
was served in the gymnasium. The ability
of the Band received praise. Games and
stunts for the school boys were held, and
this "picnic track meet" was a big feature.

Bob Emery Program

The school "went on television" on
June 8, at the invitation of C. Robbins
Emery, '12, famed "Big Brother" of radio
and television. Mr. Emery interviewed
Mr. Pearl and Mr. Albee relative to the
new expanded educational program at
F. T. S., and a twelve minute movie of
the School was shown. We appreciate
Mr. Emery's help in arranging this pro-
gram on WBZ-TV. The response to our
television story was gratifying.

Reminiscences

By Algine B. Steele, '95

Sixty years may seem like a very long
time to you boys on Thompson's Island.
To us old timers it is merely a span ot
years. When one remembers that our
School is 142 years old the thought comes
to us that we are part of a venerable
educational institution, in its own way as
famous as any of the old New England
schools, Certainly none has done a more
important work than our own Farm and
Trades School.

I began writing about "sixty years."
That is when I went to school on Thomp-
son's Island, for I graduated in 1895. I
have heard of the newly organized fire

company you now have, with its student
officers. The installation of modern fire
fighting equipment is a very wise move
indeed; although it must be almost a
nervous shock when one hears that new
electric fire siren! Let us hope it may
never be used except for fire drills!

In my time our fire fighting equip-
ment was quite primitive, because we had
no "city water." We depended entirely
on wells and rain water cisterns for our
water supply. We had 100 pupils, the
staff, and cattle, horses, oxen and other
farm animals. We needed and used much
water. It certainly was a problem to in-
sure this water supply, and much anxiety
was felt, particularly as the hazard of fire
was ever present, as we used kerosene
lamps and coal burning stoves.

Our fire fighting equipment consisted
entirely of buckets of water labelled "For
Fire Only," and placed in strategic places.
We negotiated for some time, and event-
ually the "Cochituate Water System" was
installed. This was a great thing for the
School, as you may well imagine. In
short order a 100 foot reel of two inch
hose, with nozzle attached, was connected
to the stand-pipe of the water supply. In
case fire should come we felt that we had
some protection. It was due to close
supervision and careful fire-prevention
teaching that a calamity did not strike us.

Merton p. Ellis, '97, has been
re-nominated as a member of the City of
Boston Board of Appeals, and has been
made Chairman of the Board. The
nomination of Mr. Ellis was also sub-
mitted by the Building Trades Employers'
Association and the Associated General
Contractors of Massachusettes.

Vol. 60 No. 3 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. July, 1956

Entered Nerember 3. 1903 mt Boston, Mass., ■■ Second Clati matter, under Act of Con<rci«, o( July 6, 1874

THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL BECOMES
THOMPSON ACADEMY

For some time there has been con-
siderable thought given to changing the
name of ourSchool because it wasapparent
that a new name was needed to more
aptly state the purpose of our work. When,
just a year ago, the Trustees decided to
broaden the educational program here to
include the full four years of high school,
a committee of Trustees was appointed to
study the advisability of changing the name
of the School, and to make suggestions
for the approval of the full Board,

This committee, composed of Ralph
B. Williams, Myron A. Pratt, and Calvin
P. Bartlett, thoroughly explored changing
the name from every possible angle. The
final recommendations were made in June
of this year, and by vote of the Board of
Trustees. The Farm and Trades School
became Thompson Academy, effective
July 5. 1956.

Whereas the old name, which we
shall always cherish in fond memory, in-
dicated that farming and trades were the
primary subjects taught, the new name in-
stantly conveys the thought of an academy
where students are fully prepared for

further education in college, or given a
sound terminal training. Actually we have
stressed neither a farm or trades program
for many years. Our graduates have been
leaving us after completing the tenth grade
and continuing their education elsewhere,
with the result that many New England
colleges have graduated men who received
their educational impetus at Thompson's
Island.

Without dwelling at length on the
swiftly changing trends in Education, let
us say that we have simply resolved to
teach our boys how to live, rather than
how to make a living.

We feel sure that friends of our School
will heartily approve our decision to
adopt the name THOMPSON ACADEMY.
The name is derived from David Thomp-
son, a man of sterling worth and a noted
attorney, whose life was devoted to seek-
ing the ultimate in citizenship. A God-
fearing man, he devoted his interests
wholeheartedly to his Church and to his
Country. May the spirit of this intrepid
Scotsman, who was the first white man to
settle on Thompson's Island, pervade the
life of every student who proudly bears
the stamp of Thompson Academy.

Thompson Academy— Esto Perpetual

THOMPSONS ISLAND BEACON

Cbompson's Tsland Beacon

Published Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompson'! Island, Boston Harbor

PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT
CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 3

July 1956

Subscription Price • - ■

. One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred C. Malm. Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expire! 1957
George P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler

Terra Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Terra Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williams

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

Editorial on Our Work Program

Dr. Karl C. Garrison, Professor of
Education at the University of Georgia,
has written a thought provoking article
dealing with the problems of the late ado-
lescent period. In one section of his
discourse Dr. Garrison points out that in
our modern culture our young people
have lost much of the value of work ex-
perience, due to the loss of many work
opportunities because of labor saving de-
vices in the home and elsewhere. He
points out the great value of work exper-
ience as a part of every individual's
preparation for life. Few schools, he says,
have adequately solved this problem of
providing manual labor as a part of the
education of today's youth.

We believe that the work program as
followed at Thompson Academy is of
inestimable value in preparing our students
for success in life. Norman Greene, of
Huntington School, has praised our pro-
gram as one which "places your boys two
or three years ahead of the average young-
ster of the same age."

Our boys spend two hours every
school day at work in one of the many
departments of the academy as part of
their integral training. A visitor may
thus meet boys at work on one of the
school boats, or in the dairy, or in the
shops. Our athletic fields, tennis court,
lawns and g;uden areas are maintained
largely through student help. The younger
lads may do no more than sweep a dorm-
itory corridor, while the older boys may
be at work on a difficult job of landscap-
ing, yet who can deny the importance of
either of these jobs? Certainly one of the
greatest joys in life, it seems to us, is
accomplishing something worth while,
doing a job successfully, always to the
best of our ability.

We are proud of our work program.
It is a valuable feature and certainly helps

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

provide a well rounded training. It aids and operated by the School. The Acad-

in keeping our school costs at a moderate emy has no religious, racial or political

figure, and gives each pupil a direct sense affiliations and its primary purpose is to

of participation in the operation of the provide a wholesome home life and edu-

academy. Above all. it teaches a healthy cation for boys who need a helping hand,

respect for manual labor, without which Operating as a strictly non-profit organi-

zation with liberal tuition arrangements,
the School over the past 142 years has
served thousands of boys in their devel-
opmental years.

"Houghton D. Pearl, recently ap-
pointed Headmaster of the Academy,

no life is complete.

A News Release
A news release relative to our change
in name was mailed to 350 New England
newspapers, with two main thoughts in
mind, — that the editors would print all or stated that the change of name was advis-
part of the text and file the release for ref- able because of certain changes in the
erence. The radio stations were also program and philosophy of the School,
alerted to our change in name. The result The recent addition of grades 11 and 12,
was that many of the papers gave good carrying the pupil from grade 7 through
coverage, and the radio stations were es- high school, makes the name "Academy"

pecially kind in broadcasting the name
change. On television "Big Brother" Bob
Emery, '12, was as always most coopera-
tive. We are very grateful to the press.

more appropriate. In addition, the pres-
ent objectives of the School are not so
primarily concerned with agricultural or
vocational training, but, instead, strong

radio and many alumni and other friends emphasis is placed on a liberal education

who helped spread the word of our new
name.

Following is the text of the news re-

preparing the student for further training
in college or technical school or providing
a complete terminal education for boys

lease, which was prepared in the office of who cannot go on to college.

the Academy president, Mr. Calvin Page
Bartlett. It gives a picture of our current

"Mr. Pearl stated that in line with the
new philosophy the school activities this

thinking, and our plans for the new aca- coming fall will include track, wrestling,

demic year.

boxing and tennis in addition to present

"Boston, Mass., July 5. The Officers teams in football, basketball, and baseball,
and Trustees of The Farm and Trades Also, to encourage wider participation in

School announced today that with the
authority of the Massachusetts Commiss-
ioner of Corporations, the School has
adopted the name Thompson Academy.
This marks another milestone in the his-
tory of The Farm and Trades School,
which was established in Boston in 1814

group activities, Sea Scouting, arts and
crafts, dramatics and debating will be
added,

"The first school band in America,
organized in 1857, forms the basis for a
complete music program.

"The new name, Thompson Academy ,

and has been located on Thompson's is derived from David Thompson, who

Island in Boston Harbor since 1833.

"Thompson Academy occupies a
150-acre island campus located within
twenty minutes from the heart of Boston

took possession of Thompson's Island
under a King's grant in 1626, He was a
noted Scotch churchman, voyager and
merchant. Remnants of his home can

and served by regular boat facilities owned still be seen on Thompson's Island."

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Alumni and other friends of Thomp-
son Academy are vitally interested in our
changing educational beliefs. Our big
task is to acquaint the public with these
changes and we hope that our readers
may want to pass this issue along so that
the story of Thompson Academy may be
widespread.

In June of Other Years

From Headmaster's Diary

1835, June 20. Commenced school
with 54 scholars. Today attended to read-
ing and spelling.

1855, June 29. Visited the city with
the pupils. Went to City Hall, Merchants
Exchange and other principal places. Had
lunch on the Common.

1861, June 14. Col. N. A. Thomp-
son visited us and drilled the boys. It is
three months since Fort Sumter was sur-
rendered to the wicked rebels. The war
goes on.

WBZ Radio Broadcast

At the invitation of Mr. Fred Foye,
schoolboy sports editor of the Boston
Traveler and the Westinghouse radio
station WBZ, we had the opportunity to
tell the radio audience of our new ex-
panded program. The broadcast took
place at 6:30 P. M. on Saturday, July 7.
Clifton E. Albee was interviewed by Mr.
Foye on the more important aspects of
our new program, with emphasis on the
change of name.

Mr. Foye has been a good friend of
Thompson Academy for many years.
He interrupted his regular series of radio
programs to devote time to us, and we
are indeed grateful.

Also taking part on this radio program
was Ralph E. Colson, Director of Physi-
cal Education of the Commonwealth's
public school system. Mr. Colson accepted
an invitation to visit us when school opens
this fall, and we look forward with pleas-
to this visit.

News of the Alumni
Henry A. Fox. 79, retired Chief of
the Boston Fire Department, talked with
your alumni secretary on the telephone
not long ago. Chief Fox regrets that he
no longer accepts invitations to evening
alumni events. Chief Fox, who graduated
77 years ago, is in "chipper good health,"
and enjoying his retirement years.

Rev. George W. Russell, '85, who is
a retired Baptist minister, lives in Fairfax,
Vermont. An excellent musician, he for
some years taught the music courses at the
Austin-Cate Academy. He has always
been much interested in our alumni work.

Dr. Robert H. Bogue, '06, keeps in
touch with us by correspondence. He will
be interested in our new name. He is an
outstanding authority in Chemistry, and
is the author of several books and some
69 papers in that field. He has also written
two volumes on religious history, and is
the author of a number of religious plays.

William H. Dillon, '54, is receiving
congratulations upon his graduation from
Huntington School as the student with the
highest academic standing in hisclass. He
plans to enter Cornell University this fall.

At a meeting of the Board ot
Directors of the Columbian Mutual Life
Insurance Company, held on April 24,
Linwood L. Meacham, '41, was elected
vice president of the Company. He will
goon begin in his new work, and his
address will be 305 Main Street, Bing-
hamton, N. Y. He is a Middlebury
alumnus.

OflScers of the Alumni Association

William C. Burns, '37, President
John E. Kervin, '20, Vice President

George O. Poole, '27, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol. 60 No. 3 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. July, 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Secoad Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

THE FARM AND TRADES SCHOOL BECOMES
THOMPSON ACADEMY

This committee, composed of Ralph
B. Williams, Myron A. Pratt, and Calvin
P. Bardett, thoroughly explored changing
the name from every possible angle. The
final recommendations were made in June
of this year, and by vote of the Board of
Trustees, The Farm and Trades School
became Thompson Academy, effective
July 5. 1956.

Without dwelling at length on the
swiftly changing trends in Education, let
us say that we have simply resolved to
teach our boys how to live, rather than
how to make a living.

Thompson Academy— Esto Perpetua !

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Dotnpson's Island fieacott

Published Monthly br

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompson's Island. Boston Harbor

PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT
CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.
TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 3

July 1956

Subscription Price

- One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred C. Malm, Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expire! 1957
George P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expire* 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williams

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

Editorial on Our Work Program

Our boys spend two hours every
school day at work in one of the many
departments of the academy as part of
their integral training. A visitor may
thus meet boys at work on one of the
school boats, or in the dairy, or in the
shops. Our athletic fields, tennis court,
lawns and garden areas are maintained
largely through student help. The younger
lads may do no more than sweep a dorm-
itory corridor, while the older boys may
be at work on a difficult job of landscap-
ing, yet who can deny the importance of
either of these jobs? Certainly one of the
greatest joys in life, it seems to us, is
accomplishing something worth while,
doing a job successfully, always to the
best of our ability.

We are proud of our work program.
It is a valuable feature and certainly helps

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

provide a well rounded training. It aids
in keeping our school costs at a moderate
figure, and gives each pupil a direct sense
of participation in the operation of the
academy. Above all. it teaches a healthy
respect for manual labor, without which
no life is complete.

A News Release

A news release relative to our change
in name was mailed to 350 New England
newspapers, with two main thoughts in
mind, — that the editors would print all or
part of the text and file the release for ref-
erence. The radio stations were also
alerted to our change in name. The result
was that many of the papers gave good
coverage, and the radio stations were es-
pecially kind in broadcasting the name
change. On television "Rig Brother" Bob
Emery, '12, was as always most coopera-
tive. We are very grateful to the press,
radio and many alumni and other friends
who helped spread the word of our new
name.

Following is the text of the news re-
lease, which was prepared in the office of
the Academy president, Mr. Calvin Page
Bartlett. It gives a picture of our current
thinking, and our plans for the new aca-
demic year.

"Boston, Mass., July 5. The Officers
and Trustees of The Farm and Trades
School announced today that with the
authority of the Massachusetts Commiss-
ioner of Corporations, the School has
adopted the name Thompson Academy.
This marks another milestone in the his-
tory of The Farm and Trades School,
which was established in Boston in 1814
and has been located on Thompson's
Island in Boston Harbor since 1833.

"Thompson Academy occupies a
150-acre island campus located within
twenty minutes from the heart of Boston
and served by regular boat facilities owned

and operated by the School. The Acad-
emy has no religious, racial or political
affiliations and its primary purpose is to
provide a wholesome home life and edu-
cation for boys who need a helping hand.
Operating as a strictly non-profit organi-
zation with liberal tuition arrangements,
the School over the past 142 years has
served thousands of boys in their devel-
opmental years.

"Houghton D. Pearl, recently ap-
pointed Headmaster of the Academy,
stated that the change of name was advis-
able because of certain changes in the
program and philosophy of the School.
The recent addition of grades 11 and 12,
carrying the pupil from grade 7 through
high school, makes the name "Academy"
more appropriate. In addition, the pres-
ent objectives of the School are not so
primarily concerned with agricultural or
vocational training, but, instead, strong
emphasis is placed on a liberal education
preparing the student for further training
in college or technical school or providing
a complete terminal education for boys
who cannot go on to college.

"Mr. Pearl stated that in line with the
new philosophy the school activities this
coming fall will include track, wrestling,
boxing and tennis in addition to present
teams in football, basketball, and baseball.
Also, to encourage wider participation in
group activities, Sea Scouting, arts and
crafts, dramatics and debating will be
added.

"The first school band in America,
organized in 1857, forms the basis for a
complete music program.

"The new name, Thompson Academy,
is derived from David Thompson, who
took possession of Thompson's Island
under a King's grant in 1626. He was a
noted Scotch churchman, voyager and
merchant. Remnants of his home can
still be seen on Thompson's Island."

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

In June of Other Years

From Headmaster's Diary

1835, June 20. Commenced school
with 54 scholars. Today attended to read-
ing and spelling.

1855, June 29. Visited the city with
the pupils. Went to City Hall, Merchants
Exchange and other principal places. Had
lunch on the Common.

1861, June 14. Col. N. A. Thomp-
son visited us and drilled the boys. It is
three months since Fort Sumter was sur-
rendered to the wicked rebels. The war
goes on.

WBZ Radio Broadcast

Mr. Foye has been a good friend of
Thompson Academy for many years.
He interrupted his regular series of radio
programs to devote time to us, and we
are indeed grateful.

News of the Alumni
Henry A, Fox, '79, retired Chief of
the Boston Fire Department, talked with
your alumni secretary on the telephone
not long ago. Chief Fox regrets that he
no longer accepts invitations to evening
alumni events. Chief Fox, who graduated
77 years ago, is in "chipper good health,"
and enjoying his retirement years.

Dr. Robert H. Bogue, '06. keeps in
touch with us by correspondence. He will
be interested in our new name. He is an
outstanding authority in Chemistry, and
is the author of several books and some
69 papers in that field. He has also written
two volumes on religious history, and is
the author of a number of religious plays.

At a meeting of the Board ot
Directors of the Columbian Mutual Life
Insurance Company, held on April 24,
Linwood L. Meacham, '41, was elected
vice president of the Company. He will
soon begin in his new work, and his
address will be 305 Main Street, Bing-
hamton, N. Y. He is a Middlebury
alumnus.

Officers of the Alumni Association

William C. Burns, '37, President
John E. Kervin, '20, Vice President

George O. Poole, '27, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol, 60 No. 4 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. August, 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston. Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

A Reprint

The story of Thompson Academy
has been briefly told in a pamphlet en-
titled "Thompson Academy — In Brief."
The essential paraj^raphs in this pamphlet
are reprinted in this issne of the Beacon,
as we feel that our readers want to have
this up-to-date information.

THOMPSON ACADEMY— IN BRIEF

Location
The School is located on the beautiful
157-acre Thompson's Island in Boston
Harbor — just 15 minutes from downtown
Boston.

Historical
The School first opened its doors in
Boston, in 1814. In 1833 it purchased
Thompson's Island, which has been its
home for nearly a century and a quarter.
Known until this year as The Farm and
Trades School, the Academy begins its
143rd academic year in September, 1956.
It is a private school, with no religious,
political or racial affiliations.

Purpose
The Academy has as its primary pur-
pose the education and development of
boys coming from homes of modest means.
This is a non-profit school designed to
provide a full academic program geared
to give boys the necessary requisites de-
manded for general college entrance or a

complete terminal education, in a friendly,
happy, home-like atmosphere.

Work Program
Each student spends at least two hours
daily working in the various departments.
Besides providing valuable experience,
this work program gives each boy a sense
of participation in the effective operation
of the School.

The Alumni

The graduates assist the School in many
ways, through the Alumni Association,
and through personal contacts. Many of
our alumni are successful in a host of fields.
A keen interest is maintained in our grad-
uates since it is fundamental with us that
the Alumni are the School in every sense
of the word.

Management
The management of the School is
vested in a Board of Trustees numbering
26, who are professional and business
leaders of Greater Boston. Included on
the Board are six alumni.

Enrollment
The School welcomes any boy aged
11-15, who has advanced as far as the
seventh grade, who can demonstrate av-
erage or better scholastic ability and
who characterizes good potential for
citizenship. The candidate must be in

Please turu to next page

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Cbompson's island Beacon

Published Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompson's Island. Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 4

August 1956

Subicription Price - •

• One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred C. Malm. Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expire! 1957
George P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt

Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williaips

George S, Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H, Lowell
Charles E. Mason

Continued from the preceding page

good health, and have a reasonably serious
life purpose in addition to actually wanting
to become a part of our school.

Visitors
Visitors are always welcome, and ar-
rangements may be made by contacting
the school office.

Activities
The students have a full and rich pro-
gram made all the more meaningful by
small group participation. An extremely
complete athletic program is a noted fea-
ture. In addition, there are many cultural
features including a fine band, a large cho-
rus, forensics, dramatics, and other cultural
functions. A boy scout troop, a sea scout
ship, stamp club, hobby groups and other
recreational clubs are well organized and
carefully supervised.

Facilities
The students are comfortably housed
in three modern brick dormitories, built
in 1941 by funds provided largely by the
Charles Hayden Foundation. The dining
room and kitchen facilities are located in
Bowditch House, constructed in 1939. A
dispensary is maintained by the school
nurse, who keeps tabs on the physical well-
being of the pupils, under the direction of
the Academy's consulting physician. A
lounge and snack bar provide a place for
informal recreation.

Enrollment Application
Application for admission may be
made by contacting the Director of Ad-
missions or the Headmaster. Each ap-
plication receives personal and prompt
attention.

Cost

A fee of $1000 per school year covers
instruction, board, room, laundry, etc.
Liberal scholarship and student assistance
grants are available upon application.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Shaw Scholar Announced

Basil T. Veglas has been Awarded
the Francis Shaw Scholarship for the aca-
demic year 1956-1957, it was recently an-
nounced by Headmaster Houghton D.
Pearl. The honor goes to a member of
the senior class who is an excellent student,
musician, and athlete.

The Shaw Scholarship was establishod
in 1936 by Miss Miriam Shaw, in
memory of her father who was a member
of the Board of Trustees of the Academy
for 36 years. The scholarship is ample
to defray a large part of the expenses of a
student for the school year.

Mr. Shaw was always anxious that
every Thompson's Island boy should
have those teachings which would assist
in making him a stalwart citizen. By
instituting this scholarship as a tribute to
her father, Miss Shaw has established a
living monument to a great man.

We congratulate Basil Veglas on
being accorded the honor of being the
Shaw Scholar for this year. He joins a
group of fine young men who have en-
joyed the benefits of this scholarship
annually for the past two decades.

Topics in Brief

School closed on June 15, and most
of the boys were away for the summer.
The older boys were employed on sum-
mer-time jobs in camps, hotels, restaurants
and boats, where they not only paid their
way but were able to earn funds for school
expenses. Some of the younger boys
attended summer camp. The Academy is
open the year-round, and some of the
boys remained with us for at least a part
of the summer. For them we set up a
general summer-time recreation program,
with emphasis on water sports, so that
they enjoyed a pleasant and happy va-
cation.

Our kitchen, serving room and
dining room have been redecorated and
minor repairs made, so that those areas
in Bowditch House probably look nicer
today than they did when the building
was opened in 1939. A main improve-
ment has been the installation of a new
ceiling in the serving room.

We thank the Boston Traveler for
featuring Thompson Academy on August
2 when a page of pictures appeared in that
paper. Messrs. Trask and Dow spent
some time at the Academy taking pictures
of our activities, and from these a fine
selection was made. We have received
many congratulatory messages regarding
these pictures, and are very grateful to
those who made this fine publicity
possible.

A cub International tractor has been
purchased for the use of our groundsman.
This machine has been needed for years,
and is a very valuable addition to the
equipment used in the maintenance of
our extensive grounds areas, and in other
work.

Two of the basement shower rooms
in the dormitories have been remodelled
so as to permit the installation of Bradley
showers, a much needed improvement.
These new shower facilities will be much
appreciated by the boys.

When school starts the boys will be
pleased to note that the single beds in
their rooms have been replaced by double
bunks. The double bunks add to the
floor space, of course, and room cleaning
is a simpler process. The single beds had
just about outlived their usefulness and we
believe that the double bunk beds will
prove to have been a wise choice in many
ways.

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

Over three thousand folks have vis-
ited Thompson Academy this summer,
most of them being members of the many
Massachusetts Bay yacht clubs. These vis-
itors were genuinely impressed with our
facilities for giving boys a broad education.
We were glad that these people could be
our guests, and we hope they will come
again, for we welcome visitors at all times.
Words and pictures tell a story well, but
only a visit to the Academy can show the
unusually fine set-up we have for the all-
around education and development of
promising boys who need a helping hand.

News of the Alumni
Class of 1931 Holds Reunion
On June 2 six members ot the Class

Paul F. Swasey, Headmaster of
the School from 1922-1926, continues to
maintain touch with alumni friends. His
home is in Virginia, where he is an
agriculturist and teacher.

Announcement has been received of
the Presentation Ceremonies for DaviD
E. Long, '22, as Grand Steward, Grand
Lodge, State of New York. Dave is a
member of the Long Island Lodge, F. &
A. M. He has risen up the ranks of
Masonry, and is most deserving of the
congratulations being heaped upon him.
The Ceremonies will be held at the
Brooklyn Masonic Temple, Clermont
and Lafayette Avenues, on September 20,
1956. Many of the Academy alumni,
who are members of the Masonic fra-

of 1931 gathered at the Mandor Restaur- ^^^^.^^^ ^.„ ^^ ^^^^^^^ ^^ ^^^ ^^^.^ ^^.^^^^
ant. in Framingham, for a class reunion ^^ j^^^^ .^^^ ^^^ Lawrence Weston
on the anniversary of their graduation 25 ^^^^ ^^^ ^^^ mmam A. Chamberlain
years ago. After a sumputous dinner the ^.,j ^^^^ ^ ^^^^ .^ ^^^ ^^^^.^^^
group adjourned to the Woodland Coun-
try Club to talk over old times. The For the past twenty summers some of
arrangements for the reunion were made our young graduates have been employed

on the staff of the Sandy Island Camp,
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire.
This camp is operated by the Boston Y.
M. C. A. principally as a vacation spot
for families. Five of our boys worked at

by Kenneth James

Those present were:

Karl R. Adams, now a happy grand-
father, is employed as a driver by the
Emmett Valley Transportation Company.

Darwin Chapdelaine is employed by Sandy this summer, namely:

the Woodland Country Club.

Ralph M. Fuller is equipment super-
visor for the New England Tel. & Tel.

Kenneth James is a machine designer
for the Sylvania Electric Products, Inc.

John D. MacGregor is a maintenance

William H. Dillon
Steven R. Wellington
Basil T. Veglas
Carleton G. Skinner
Thomas C. Cronin

Important! Save the night of Oct.
supervisor for one of the nation s largest 37 f^^ the Alumni Banquet Your sec-
dams, located in Oregon.

Willis M. Wight is a first class ship-
fitter at the Fore River Ship Yard.

The group was photographed at the
Woodland Country Club, and a quarter
century hasn't changed them much, as
each is readily identified. Congratulations
to them for their grand reunion.

retary will mail you details soon,
Officers of the Alumni Association

William C. Burns, '37, President
John E. Kervin, '20, Vice President

George O. Poole, '27, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol. 60 No. 5 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. Sept., 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

Meet Our Academic Teachers
Our Headmaster. HoUGHTON D.
Pearl, teaches the senior mathematics
courses. He received his Ed. M. degree
from the University ofVermont, and has
done advanced work at Boston Univer-
sity. He holds certificates from the State
of Vermont for Professional Standard
Teaching, High School Principal, and
Public School Superintendent. Mr. Pearl
has many interests, ranging from mechan-
ics to sailing, and including athletics, for
he is a former coach. He, Mrs, Pearl,
and their three young sons live in Adams
House.

Dr, John B. Cook, our Supervisor
of Education, has had a lifetime of rich
experience as an educator and adminis-
trator. He holds degrees from Bucknell
University, University of Pittsburgh and
Potomac University. A former superin-
tendent of schools, college president and
headmaster of a prominent private boys'
school, Dr, Cook brings to our pupils a
rich heritage, Dr, Cook is never happier
than when teaching the mathematics
classes. Although he has many interests,
his summertime hobby is studying the
baseball standings. As a former battery
mate of the immortal Christy Mathewson,
Dr, Cook has long maintained an interest
in the national sport. He and Mrs. Cook
reside in Hayden Dormitory C.

Franklin Black teaches the high
school social science classes. He is our
alternate boat captain, and coaches the
intramural athletic teams, A graduate of
Boston University, he came to us from a
teaching position at Cavendish, Vermont.
His hobbies and interests are many, in-
cluding music (opera), sailing and boat
models. He, Mrs. Black, and their 2i^
year old son Gregg reside in Hayden
Dormitory A,

Arthur George heads our Langu-
age Department, He is a graduate of
Bridgewater Teachers College and secured
his early teaching experience in the public
schools of Boston. His interests lie in
many fields, and he is now engaged in
working up enthusiasm in boy scouting,
dramatics and debating. He hopes to do
much in these fields, for they are import-
ant to many of our students. Substantial
groundwork, particularly with the Boy
Scout troop, has been accomplished.

Maurice McAllister attended
Thompson Academy, class of 1947. He
teaches the science courses. He did his
college work at the University of Bridge-
port, and is a recent graduate of that
school. He is an assistant coach of the
varsity football squad, and will be coach-
ing basketball and baseball. He is a

Please turn to page 4

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Cboimp$on'$ Island Beacon

Published Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 5

September 1956

Subscription Price

One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred G. Malm, Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expirei 1957
George P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Willian^s

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

Editorial

Although Thompson Academy is un-
denominational, it develops, through
teaching, reverence towards God and a
rich tolerance towards all faiths. Arrange-
ments are made for all students to attend
a service of their faith weekly. On
Sunday evenings a school vesper service
is held, at which attendance is required of
every pupil.

Religion is the most important essen-
tial in the training of youth. Character of
strong fiber cannot be built without the
help of God. It is true, probably, that
every person has within himself some in-
born religious instinct. This must be
nurtured through careful, intelligent teach-
ing. Certainly boys cannot develop moral
fiber and moral character without the help
of God. This help may come only through
a teaching and understanding of funda-
mental faith and a keen knowledge of the
tenets of the Bible.

Oldsters are concerned, and it seems
rightly so, that youth may be led to be-
lieve that success in life depends upon an
accumulation of worldly goods and pleas-
ures. This emptiness of spirit must be
guarded against. We need to remember
that a constant vigilance must be kept, es-
pecially in view of present day conditions,
to see that our youth develop and keep a
reverent attitude of mind and that a proper
evaluation be given the moral and material
aspects of life.

Stalwart character can be developed
only through devotion to God. and a
knowledge of the great teachings of the
Bible, One must have a faith to stand on,
especially in the times of adver&iiy which
come to us all.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Topics in Brief

School has opened with an enroll-
ment of 92 students, our largest in years.
Registration day was September 9, and
classes began on the 10th. Our teaching
staff numbers seven, headed by our Super-
visor of Education, Dr. John B, Cook.
We have every reason to expect a banner
year, and confidence in this expectation
prevades the entire school.

Our three Hayden dormitories are
taxed to capacity this year. The seventh
and eighth graders are housed in one
dormitory, with Mr. and Mrs. Black and
Mr. and Mrs. Profetto. The ninth and
tenth graders live in Dormitory B with
Mr. and Mrs. Steves, Mr. McAllister
and Mr. Margiano. The eleventh and
twelfth graders occupy Dormitory C with
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and Dr. and Mrs.
Cook.

Our band director. Major Frank L.
Warren, held the first rehearsal of the
Band for this school year on September
19. Our Band, the oldest school band in
America, will celebrate its one hundredth
birthday in 1957, and we have tentative
plans for some big events for our young
musicians.

Our boy scout troop and explorer
scout troop have held their first meetings
of the school year. We expect that in-
terest in these activities will develop rapid-
ly, for they represent adventure in the
out-of-doors, which appeals to all boys.

Football practice has begun, and a
schedule appears elsewhere in this issue.
We hope that all our friends will attend
the games and cheer the team to many
victories. Our varsity squad we hope will
number 33. There will be games for the
younger lads in an intramural program.

and perhaps these teams may compose a
squad which will play a game or two
with junior teams from other schools.

There has been installed at our boat
landing, and at strategic places along the
wharf and avenue, a set of lights which
will insure the utmost in safety and con-
venience during the winter months. Our
previous lighting system needed replace-
ment, and the new arrangement of lights
was installed by our maintenance super-
visor, Mr. Baxter.

The annual election of officers of the
Academy Stamp Club took place on
September 19. Several of the new students
have joined the Club, and interest runs
high.

The officers elected are:

Kenneth Ford, President

Florence Cain, Vice President and
Chief Custodian

Charles Dahl, Secretary

Ronald Zisk, Treasurer

Ronald Oke, Chief Appraiser

The Custodians are Raymond Stry-
charz, Donald Chapdelaine, and the
officers of the Club.

The Board of Appraisers include
Donald Oke, Michael Veglas, and three
of the officers.

We are greatly indebted to the Mar-
garet Coffin Prayer Book Society of the
Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts for the
new hymnals we are using in the chapel
services. Arrangements for securing these
were made by the Rev. David W. Nor-
ton, Jr. of the church of Saint Michael
at Marblehead, Mass. The use of these
hymnals has added to the dignity and de-
votion of our services.

The Board of Trustees will hold its
next meeting at the Academy on October
2. The Pilgrim III will leave City
Point at 11:30 a. m.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Continued from page 1

master in Hayden Dormitory B. A native
of Chester, Vermont, his chief hobbies
include a wide variety of athletics, wood-
working, music and dramatics.

Donald MargianO is our seventh
grade teacher, and is a master in Hayden
Dormitory B. He is a graduate of the
University of Bridgeport. An assistant
coach of the varsity football squad, he no
doubt will be coaching other sports as the
school year moves along. His home is
in Shelton, Connecticut. His hobbies
and interests are mainly sports of all kinds,
music and reading.

James PrOFETTO teaches the upper
grades. He is a graduate of the Univer-
sity of Bridgeport, is married, and he and
Mrs. Profetto reside in Hayden Dorm-
itory A. He helps coach the intramural
league football teams, and will no doubt
assist in many ways with our recreational
program. His hobbies include boxing,
record collecting, tennis, and track. He
is a native of Waltham, Mass.

News of the Alumni
Important! Save the night of Oct.
27 for the Alumni Banquet. Your sec-
retary will mail you details soon.

Horace F. Edmands, '95
We are saddened to report the
recent death of Horace F. Edmands, '95
at his home, 1421 Deane Boulevard,
Racine, Wisconsin.

Mr. Edmands was a public official in
Wisconsin for the past 41 years. He
began this illustrious career in 1915 when
he received an appointment by the state
assessor of incomes. Since 1941 he has
been county treasurer. During his ad-
ministration he saw that hundreds of
parcels of land were returned to the tax
rolls. Last June he completed a revision
of the plat book, a major undertaking.

During World War I he was executive
of the War Relief Fund, and from 1925
to 1927 was executive secretary of the
Community Chest. He whs a former
director of the Racine Building & Loan
Association, and served as vice president
of the Wisconsin Treasurers' Association.

He is survived by his wife, a daugh-
ter and son. His brother, William A.
Edmands, is a resident of Weymouth, To
them we express sincere condolences.

Christian Science Church funeral
services were conducted, as were Masonic
rites.

The "old boys" of the alumni associ-
ation will be grieved to learn of the
passing of Horace F, Edmands. Although
he graduated over 60 years ago, he kept
in touch with Thompson Academy
activities, for he loved his school and
maintained a continuous interest in his
Thompson Island boyhood home.

1956 Varsity Football Schedule

September 28
Rivers Country Day at Brookline

October 6
Thayer Academy JV's at T. A.

October 13
Lawrence Academy JV's at Groton

October 20
Milton Academy JV's at T. A.

October 27
Open

November 3
Matignon High JV's at T. A.

November 10
Newton High JV's at T. A.

Officers of the Alumni Association

William C. Burns, '37, President
John E. Kervin, '20, Vice President

George O. Poole, '27, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol. 60 No. 6 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass.

Oct.. 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

Somerville Kiwanis Meeting
Some months ago a visitor at Thomp-
son Academy became enthused with our
school to the extent that he urged a Ki-
wanis friend to plan a luncheon program
at which time representatives of the School
would be invited to speak. Thus it was,
on October 25, that our Director of Ad-
missions, Mr. Stevens, together with Mr.
Albee, appeared as guest speakers at the
regular weekl}" luncheon of the Somerville
Kiwanis Club.

Richard V. Kiley, program director
of the Club, introduced both speakers.
Mr. Stevens told of the early history of
the school, its purpose, and educational
philosophy. Then he dwelt at some
length on the type of student we are
helping, and explained that our student
body comes from such widely scattered
points as Florida. Denver, Canada and
New York.

The club members, numbering sixty,
were then taken on a film tour of theschool.
Colored slides gave a good picture of the
activities of the boys, the campus buildings,
and the general country setting of the
school. Mr. Albee described each scene
as it was projected. Following the show-
ing of pictures each of the members was
given a copy of our academy leaflet, to-
gether with a reprint of the Herald column
by Bill Cunningham.

The Kiwanis Club, through its pres-
ident, Wilbur F. Lewis, expressed appre-
ciation of this program. We were happy
to have the opportunity to tell our story
to such a fine, interested group.

We should add that programs such as
this are available to your club or special
group, and arrangements may be made
by writing our school office.

National Guard Concert

The band boys enjoyed the concert
given on October 25 at the Common-
wealth Armory, by eight National Guard
units. Four of these units were bands,
and the other four vocal groups. The
visit of our boys was arranged by our
band director. Major Frank L. Warren,
who is the retired 26th Division band-
master. A program of five numbers by
the 26th Infantry Band was outstanding.
This band was conducted by W. Marshall
Hall, '27. who has succeeded Mr. Warren
as the Yankee Division bandmaster.
Being an alumnus, and a former member
of our school band, Mr. Hall seldom
misses a Faneuil Hall concert and has
been a guest conductor at most of our
annual concerts given in that hall.

The huge armory presented quite a
sight, as the main floor was filled with 110
tables, each seating ten guests. The con-
cert stage and area for dancing was setup
in the center of the floor. It was "Pops
Concert Night," for the National Guard.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

CHompson's Island Beacon

Published Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompson'* Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 6

October 1956

Subicription Price

One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred G. Malm, Vice- President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary
Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Terra Expires 1957
George P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williarps

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H, Lowell
Charles E. Mason

Visitors to Thompson Academy soon
discover that here we have a happy
school. And perhaps this is the best
thought they could have, for happiness is
based upon a great many factors, all of
which must be good. In a school such as
ours, pupils are happy only if their daily
program is composed of elements, each
one in its own way contributing to success-
ful school life.

Our friends note that Thompson
Academy is a happy place because of the
attitude of the boys. There is scarcely
anything in this world more contagious
than a smiling face, and our guests are
quick to observe the genuine, happy
appearance of the pupils.

The writer once knew a speaker who
prefaced his talks with a smile. His
audience immediately caught his friendly
spirit, and he earned immediate attention.
The smile was by no means an empty
gesture. The speaker was naturally a
happy person, who wanted others to be
happy, and he knew the value of a smile.

You probably know many who do
their work day after day cheerfully and
happily. You know others who do the
same kind of work, and perhaps do it
passably well, yet look upon their lot as a
form of drudgery. You may rest assured
that the worker with a smile, the happy
person, will meet with greater success.
Nothing builds good will more than a
happy spirit.

May the cultivation of a happy nature
be a main part of our code of living. May
we learn, early in life, that a good smile
and a happy spirit are priceless ingredients
which enrich our personality, and spread
sunshine wherever we go.

May Thompson Academy always be
a happy school! May each of us strive to
do his bit to maintain our reputation as a
school where happiness, the friendly spirit,
and the contagious smile are dominant.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Topics in Brief

Our band boys attended the concert
given by the U. S. Navy Band at Kresge
Auditorium of M. I. T. on Monday,
October 1. The Navy Band is one of
the country's foremost musical organ-
izations, and gave a perfecdy thrilling
concert, much to the pleasure and delight
of a large audience, composed mostly of
teenagers.

The football season has but a few
weeks to go, and it has been very success-
ful as far as our teams are concerned.
The varsity has met and conquered its
opponents week after week.

The intramural teams play a game
each Monday. During the week Mr.
Profetto and Mr. Black coach the
teams and get the boys ready for the
games. The boys are having a fine
season.

The boys have enjoyed the weekly
showing of movies on Saturdays. We
are able to show excellent films, produced
by the major Hollywood studios, and
selected especially for use in schools.

It was the pleasure of our Sea Scout
unit to act as hosts at a council regetta,
held at our school on October 13. Mem-
bers of the local Coast Guard unit acted
as instructors and the event proved very
worthwhile. In the competitive races
our unit won the Golden Eagle, which
our boys proudly display, for the reason
that their success was unexpected in the
particular race in which the emblem was
won.

The first meeting of the Parents
Council was held on October 7, with the
president, Elmer Picks, in the chair.
This was an organizational period, and
important business was transacted, includ-
ing the ratification of the charter of the

organization. The next meeting will be
held on November 4, at which time Alfred
C. Malm, the vice-president of the Board
of Trustees of the Academy, will give an
address, "Financial and Legal Organ-
ization of Thompson Academy."

We are very much indebted to Bill
Cunningham, whose column in the Boston
Herald on September 28, was devoted
completely to our school. We are taking
steps to see that each of our BEACON
readers get a copy of this column, and we
are sure that they will agree with us that it
is an outstanding piece of factual reporting.
Written in the style which has earned Mr.
Cunningham thousands and thousands of
readers, the column has attracted wide
attention. We thank Mr. Cunningham
for his great service to Thompson
Academy.

One of the most successful group
activities which we have had in the past
few years is the Academy Stamp Club,
which had its inauguration last year,
under the direction of Mr. Kehew. There
have always been stamp collectors among
the boys of course, but by means of the
Club, those who now enjoy this pastime
are able to pursue the hobby in a more
efficient way, and incidentally, have a
more pleasant time at it.

A group of guidance workers from
the Quincy Public Schools, headed by
Mr. Phillips, visited us recently. The
men and women in the party made a
careful study of our school, and were
much interested in our program. They
were impressed with our excellent kitchen
and dining room facilities, and the dormi-
tory accommodations for the boys. It
gave us pleasure to be hosts to the group,
and we hope that they will return for
further study of our school.

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

The Student Council has had several
fine meetings and has worked out an ad-
mirable social calendar for the year.
Hallowe'en is the opening event on the
calendar, and a mass fox and hounds
hunt is planned. The traditional events
of the evening, with the holiday "eats"
of course, will round out a pleasant
time.

Twelve boys, winners of a recent
room inspection contest, attended the
Rodeo at Boston Garden recently. Seats
for the event were given the boys by
Edward Powers, of the Boston Garden
management, and the boys want to thank
him for his kindness.

A Christian training club has been
organized this month. Membership is
voluntary, and all the pupils are invited
to join. After an opening organizational
meeting, the group voted to adopt the
name "Youth Fellowship." The follow-
ing were elected to office.

Florence Cain, Leader

Richard Dey, Secretary

Alfred Watts, Treasurer

Donald Oke, Mission Director

A group of workers from The New
England Trust Company visited us on
September 23. They had for years been
acquainted with the history and purpose of
Thompson Academy, and yet had never
visited the island. Mr. Allan G. Gait
and his co-workers took time to visit not
only our campus buildings, but also
inspected our farm buildings, "taking in"
the afternoon milking.

Officers of the Alumni Association

William C. Burns, '37, President
John E. Kervin, '20, Vice President

George O. Poole, '27, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson. '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

News of the Alumni
Edward V. Osberg, '22, president
and General Manager of the National
Polychemicals, Inc., and Mrs. Osberg,
have returned from a trip to Europe. Mr.
Osberg combined business with pleasure,
as he had discussions with heads of the
major chemical companies in England,
France, and Germany. Other countries
visited were Austria, Denmark, Sweden
and Norway.

Albert E. Peterson, '21, writes
of his interest in the Thompson Academy
band. As with so many of the graduates,
music was extremely important to him,
and he carried on, becoming a member
of the 1st Corps Cadet Band, and a
charter member of the DeMolay Band of
Boston.

William N. W^:st, '28, has written
an interesting letter from Florida, where
he has made his home for several years.
His favorable comments on our new pro-
gram is appreciated. He lives at 149
Rutland Boulevard, West Palm Beach.
This reminds us that our good alumnus,
Charles E. Nichols, '07, has just
recently taken up residence in West Palm
Beach, His address is Box 2914, that
town. Perhaps these two graduates could
get together for a chat about Thompson
Academy.

ROY M. Dole, '35, keeps tabs on
our football team, and we were glad to
see him at Groton, when our boys de-
feated the Lawrence Academy JV team.
Mr. Dole has been a teller at a large
Boston bank for many years.

Ivers R. Allen, '16, we are glad to
report, is recovering from an illness which
has required two hospital confinements.
Mr. Allen, whose address is RFD 2,
Meredith, N. H., has kept a close touch
and real interest in Thompson Academy
since his graduation 40 years ago.

Vol. 60 No. 7 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. Nov., 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Second Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

The Alumni Banquet

The annual dinner of the Alumni
Association was held at the Museum of
Science, Science Park, Boston, on Satur-
day evening October 27. It was guest
night, and more than one hundred grad-
uates and their friends gathered for the
occasion.

After a social hour, during which a
tour of the Museum was enjoyed, the group
gathered in Morse Auditorium, where
tables for ten had been set up. Here a
bountiful, tasty dinner was served.

Following the dinner. Headmaster
Houghton D. Pearl spoke concerning re-
cent happenings at the school. He and
Mrs. Pearl were accorded a warm recep-
tion, for although they have been at the
School for only a little more than a year,
they have earned the esteem of the alumni
body.

Colored slides, showing a wide range
of activities at Thompson Academy were
shown. These proved to be of much in-
terest, and were a highlight of the evening.

Richard Kleber. of the Museum staff,
then gave a science demonstration relating
to sound. Using equipment which ranged
from a bass drum to an intricate recording
by tape device, he kept his audience at
rapt attention as he gave his fascinating
and interesting presentation,

The Dinner was a highly successful
event. Although these have been annual

affairs for decades, it is difficult to single
out one which was more worthwhile. The
alumni are certainly grateful to the Com-
mittee which arranged the party, and the
Committee is in turn deeply grateful to
Clyde W. Albee. '33, of the Museum staff,
for his excellent cooperation.

We appreciate very much the courtesy
shown our group by Director Bradford
Washburn of the Museum of Science, and
to the staff members who helped with the
banquet.

Headmaster's Inspection

Every Saturday mcjrning at 8:30 we
have Headmaster's Inspection. Mr. Pearl
visits each boy's room and gives it a grade
based on cleanliness and general neatness.
He often looks for personal cleanliness
too. The room with the highest rating is
given a prize. Sometimes it is a special
meal, other times a trip to the movies in
town, and there are other prizes. No
one knows ahead of time just what the
prize for the week will be.

Usually on Frldzy night we take time
and get ready for the inspection. We tidy
our dresser drawers, clean the wardrobes
and get most of the work done. On
Saturday morning we finish up by making
our beds especially carefully, and sweeping
and dusting. When Mr. Pearl comes we
stand at attention while he inspects.

Please turn to page 4

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

DoMpsoH's Island BeacoH

Publiihed Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompson'i Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 7

November 1956

Subicription Price

One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred C. Malm, Vict- President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expire! 1957
George P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditcb
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstali
Moses Williains

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee

N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

The greatest need of the world to-day
LB the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
service, the basic development plan at our
home school. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve his goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

A new student, bursting with enthu-
siasm, came to the writer one day re-
cently and asked, "What can I do to
become successful here?"

Now, that is quite a question, and
one not to be answered quickly, nor
lightly. After all, the word "success"
indicates dilTerent things, according to
each individual. We think it should not.

To some, the achievement of deeds
which result in world-wide fame is the
mark of success. In some cases this is
true, but certainly not in all cases, at
least in our present culture. In other
words, success and fame are not synony-
mous. Would you say that Adolph Hitler
led a successful life? As far as achieving
fame, probably not one in ten thousand
ever becomes known outside of his own
immediate circle of friends and acquain-
tances.

Then, too, one does not need a
conspicuous position in order to be
successful. Here at the School, in our
work program, every boy has a job which
he does daily. We regard every job as
important. To be successful in his job
should be the ambition of every pupil.
Perhaps the best definition of success
would be the favorable termination of
every project begun.

Very recently one of our older boys
completed quite a job in drafting the final
copy of the Charter for the Student
Council. At the same time a young lad
worked hard composing a short poem for
his English lesson. Both were highly
successful in their work. They had fin-
ished their appointed tasks well.

Although there is a strong tendency
to measure success in terms of wealth,
fame or even social standing, we believe
it dangerous for a young man to set his
sights on either of these worldly pursuits.
Success, fortunately, can be earned by

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

the humblest of us, as well as by the most
powerful.

How did we answer the lad who
questioned us about success? By stating
the simple truth that success is earned by
doing the beat we can at every appointed
task. It is a happy truth that by this
definition success can be achieved by our
very youngest lad doing simple tasks, as
well as by the older boys doing work
which is far more advanced.

Topics in Brief

We have been having a fine series of
Sunday evening vesper services. Among
the speakers who have helped us with this
service recently are the Rev. Harold K.
Shelley, pastor of the Melrose Unitarian
Church, Dr. John B. Cook, our supervisor
of education, Ralph E. Stevens, our dir-
ector of admissions, Mr. Knowles of the
Boston Council Boy Scout office, and
Clifton E. Albee of the school stafT. The
vesper services are under the direct super-
vision of our chaplain, Mr. Kehew, who
does an inspired and grand piece of work
in organizing and conducting the services.

We are building permanent, all-
weather structures to house our hydrants.
This will permit us to have fire hoses at-
tached to the hydrants, ready for instant
use. New hose, and additional extin-
guishers, have been purchased. Periodic,
and a more thorough inspection of our
buildings during the night time hours has
been instituted. We use every means pos-
sible to promote safety in every way, and
especially are we on guard against fire
hazards.

We have made a few minor repairs
in our gymnasium, getting the hall ready
for a busy winter of basketball. Probably
no room at the island has given more fun,
pleasure and recreation than the Gardiner
Hall gymnasium, which has seen steady,
constant use since its erection 75 years ago.

The hall has had an interesting, rather
fascinating history, and has served as the
locale for many recreational purposes.

Our waterfront facilities have been
made ready for the winter. New lights
have been installed, the landing stages re-
built, the Goodhue stored in the boat
house, the sea scout ship beached, and
the Pilgrim III given attention at a near-
by boat yard.

The football team ended one of its
best seasons on November 3, when the
boys defeated the Newton High JV team.
A schedule of seven games was played,
and our boys were the victors in each.
It was a good season, with every game
being interesting and well played. Sports-
manship ranked high in each encounter.
The coaching staff, headed by Ray Thom-
as, and the entire squad, deserve sincere
congratulations for their good work in
this 1956 season.

The schedule, and scores follow:
1956 Varsity Football Schedule

September 28
Rivers Country Day at Brookline

Score: Thompson 27, Rivers 14

October 6
Thayer Academy JV's at T. A.

Score: Thompson 18, Thayer 6

October 13
Lawrence Academy JV's at Groton

Score: Thompson 21, Lawrence 0

October 20
Milton Academy JV's at T. A.

Score: Thompson 27, Milton 0

October 29
Cambridge Latin JV,s at T. A.

Score: Thompson 13, Cambridge 0

November 5
Matignon High JV's at T. A.

Score: Thompson 12, Matignon 0

November 10
Newton High JV's at T. A.

Score: Thompson 19, Newton 6

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

Continued from page 1

Our room has won the prize three
times. One time we were given a case
of tonic. Another time we went to the
RKO Theatre in Boston. The third time
we had a special dinner served at Mr.
Pearl's table. I enjoyed all the prizes
very much, but the trip to the show was
the best.

John S. Krzyzanowski

Mr. Malm Addresses Parents Council

Alfred C. Malm, vice president of
the Board of Trustees, addressed the Par-
ents Council at the monthly meeting of
the group, held November 4. Mr. Malm,
who is a former treasurer of the school,
gave some facts regarding the financial
structure of the school, and emphasized
the continuing and growing need of
financial support for the Academy, par-
ticularly as the Trustees are expanding the
work of the school to include educational
opportunities not deemed possible even a
few short years ago. The audience of
parents extended thanks to Mr. Malm for
his enlightening talk. Elmer Kicks, pres-
ident of the Council, directed the meeting.

The next meeting of the Council will
be held at the school on December 2.

First Band Concert of Season
Major Frank L. Warren, now in his
34th year as Director of the Thompson
Academy Band, is busy preparing tbe boys
for the first of their 1956-1957 series of
concerts. The boys will play at the New
England Conservatory of Music early in
December. Tbe band numbers 30, and
is playing this concert at the request of the
Baptist Social Union.

on Thursday, November 15, with Presi-
dent William C. Burns tn the chair.

Among several matters discussed, two
were very important. First was the copy
of the Association's Constitution and By-
Laws, printed over 30 years ago. It was
voted to republish this, adding the several
amendments which have been voted from
time to time over the years. A committee
is at work on this project.

The second important matter discussed
was the Richard Bell Fund. A committee
is at work on this, and will report shortly.
It seems entirely possible that this Fund
may prove to be the nucleus of a Thomp-
son Academy Scholarship Fund.

Clarence P. Hobson, '23, was chosen
as the alumni nominee for membership on
the Academy's Board of Trustees.

Names of officers elected follow.

Charles O. Rolfe, '15, President
George O. Poole, '27. Vice President

Clifton E. Albee, '21, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

News of the Alumni
David E. Haeger, '42, and Mrs.
Haeger proudly announce the arrival of
Jean Helen, on October 4, 1956. Con-
gratulations!

Algine B. Steele, '95, whose writ-
ings are well known to the readers of this
paper, is a frequent correspondent. Mr.
Steele, who is confined to his home at 8
Palmer Hill Ave., Reading, because of ill
health, has been visited by some of the
graduates. Others correspond regularly
with him. He thus is able to keep in close
touch with the graduates and with the
school.

Alumni Annual Meeting We are always happy to receive news

The annual meeting of the Alumni of the graduates, and appreciate very much

Association of Thompson Academy was the interest of those who keep us so well

held at the Museum of Science, Boston, informed.

Vol. 60 No. 8 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. Dec 1956

Entered November 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Second Class matter, ander Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

Concert Season Begins For Band
The Band played its first concert of
the 1956-1957 season on Monday even-
ing, December 3. The program was
especially arranged for the 839th meeting
of the Boston Baptist Social Union, and
took place in George Brown Hall of the
New England Conservatory of Music.
Mr. Warren and the boys were welcomed
by Irving Rawding, a member of the
Union and a long-time friend of our
band. The boys enjoyed a tasty baked
ham dinner, after which our headmaster,
Mr. Pearl, gave a brief talk based on
the philosophy of the Academy. The
band concert, which followed, consisted
of favorite military band numbers, and
included two novelties which were well
received. The address of the evening,
entitled "Human Enilineering," was
delivered by Dr. Wilhelm S. Frederik,
lecturer at the Harvard School of Public
Health.

Testimonial Banquet for Mr. Thomas

Note: The following appeared wholly or in
part in Boston and Quincy papers Dec. 12.

The Student body, together with
alumni and faculty, gathered last night at
Thompson's Island to honor Raymond
Thomas upon his retirement as athletic
coach of Thompson Academy, after a
quarter century of service. Mr, Thomas
has been appointed Dean of Boys at the

island school and has already begun his
new duties. At the same time the acad-
emy football squad was feted. The boys
had an undefeated season, winning seven
games, and were mythical champs of
their class.

Clifton E. Albee, toastmaster and
representing the Alumni Association, re-
lated anecdotes regarding the early teams
to represent the school on the athletic
field. In football only one game was
played in each of the years 1931, 1932
and 1933. In 1934, with the help of
Boston schoolboy sports writers, a full
schedule was arranged. Since then the
island teams have annually built fine
records. Stephen J. Zevitas, captain of
the undefeated 1947 team, and Bruce A.
Graham, captain of the undefeated 1952
team, gave accounts of those teams.

The alumni speakers in a group then
presented Coach Thomas, on behalf of
his "Old Boys," a gold football upon
which was engraved in part "To Ray
Thomas in appreciation of 25 years of
teaching guodspostsmanship." Cocaptains
of the 1956 team, Loren Cain and John
Lennon, followed with a presentation to
Mr. Thomas of a handsome silver trophy,
suitably engraved, as a memento from
this year's eleven. Mrs. Thomas was
remembered with a lovely bouquet.

The ceremonies, which followed a

Please turn to page 4

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Donpsott's Tsland BeacoM

Publiihed Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompion'i laland, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 8

December 1956

Subicription Price

One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred G. Malm, Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Marton P. Ellis, Secretary
Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

T«rm Expire! 1957
Gaorga P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Meson Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
T«rm Expire! 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditob
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expire! 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williai»8

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Adviiory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

The greatest need of the world to-day
Ls the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
service, the basic development plan at our
home school. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve hia goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

Graduation from high school is but a
few short months away for thousands of
the Nation's youth. In these times there
are many vital, important decisions tor
these young people to make. Right now
they are taking tests of one kind or another,
being interviewed by representatives of
the armed forces, meeting admission
officers of colleges and universities and in
general preparing to make serious, far-
reaching decisions which not too many
years ago could be deferred at least for a
time.

Young people ought not become
discouraged. Of course there are two
sides of the picture to face. It is sadly
true that this is an age when there are de-
cided threats being made upon our
democratic way of life, which leads to a
feeling of general insecurity. It is an age
when moral stamina is really being putto
the test.

But what of the other side of the pic-
ture? Business leaders state frankly that
the world will make more progress in the
next few decades than has been made in
the past 500 years. Men who know, state
frankly that the time is coming when there
will be more jobs than there will be men
to fill them. Even today women are at
work in positions formerly filled by men.
There is no doubt that America offers its
young people almost unbelievable oppor-
tunities if they will properly prepare
themselves in mind, body, and soul.

Today's young people are no doubt
penalized by the easy way of life. The
many electric and mechanical appliances
have eliminated the "chores" of their
parents' youth. The obstacles which were
faced and overcome a generation or two
ago are not met in these days of push
button living. Yet this is not the fault of
the young people. Rather these conditions
shouldbe made an asset and a challenge —

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

that of raising still further our presumably
high mode of living.

It is not enough to decide to simply
do a good job. A young man ought to
do the best thing he can do. Shoot for
the stars! Yet remember that it isn't the
white collar which denotes a man's ability,
but rather what is above it. America is a
land of limitless opportunities for the
young fellow who will study hard, work
hard, and learn early that there is no
short cut to success.

Joint Meeting of Pilgrim Fellowship

The Pilgrim Fellowship group of our
School enjoyed a very pleasant evening
as guests of the Pilgrim Fellowship of the
Pilgrim Congregational Church of Dor-
chester, on Sunday December 2. It took
but a few minutes for both groups to be-
come acquainted, after which supper was
served, the waiters being members of the
Junior group.

Following supper a short devotional
service was held, after which a religious
motion picture was shown. Then a series
of games was enjoyed. The entertainment
was in charge of Carl Howard, a theo-
logical student at Boston University, who
heads the young peoples' work at the
church.

Those who attended the meeting
certainly Had a fine lime. Our group
included:

Florence Cain, the Leader of the Fellow-
ship; Richard Dey, the Secretary; Alfred
Watts, the Treasurer; Dale Aiken, William
Cain, Kenneth Ford, Hawthorne Burn-
ham, David Ficks. Carleton Skinner and
Loren Cain.

Topics in Brief

The Public Landing at City Point
was damaged by the storm of Thanksgiv-
ing Day, and for four weeks our docking
facilities were impaired. At times we used
the landing at Northern Avenue, which

is inconvenient for us. The City Point
dock has been repaired and is again in
use, so that we are now able to operate
normal boating service.

All except a very few of the boys were
home for the Thanksgiving recess. Those
who remained at the school enjoyed a
bountiful roast turkey dinner, with all the
fixings, in traditional holiday style. The
holiday entertainment centered around
basketball, movies, and television viewing.

Steel book lockers have been pur-
chased and placed in our classrooms.
These lockers will prove, we feel, con-
venient for the boys' use as a depository
for their textbooks, and will represent a
saving on the wear and tear of the books,
which heretofore the boys have kept in
various places.

The football season ended with a gala
banquet being tendered the boys on Dec.
11. Basketball practice for the varsity has
already begun. Our boys will have full
opportunity to play this most popular of
indoor games, the older ones in inter-
scholastic competition and the others in
a very fine intramural program.

The boys in the Band appreciate very
much the gift of music and musical equip-
ment made them by E. J. LaRue, one of
Boston's top band conductors. Thank
you very much, Mr. LaRue.

We have added five Holsteins to our
herd in order to bolster our milk supply.
The herd is predominantly Guernsey, and
we have thirty head of this breed, all
pure bred stock.

Our English department hopes to pro-
duce a series of one act plays and Mr.
George will begin rehearsals soon. Who
can tell but what this may be but a start
towards a full fledged drama workshop, a
field of much interest to many of our boys.

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

Continued from page 1

steak dinner, were publicly announced as
a tribute to the football squad and the
honors paid came as a total surprise to
Mr. Thomas.

Speakers included Bill Lannon, coach
and referee, who has followed the for-
tunes of the Thompson's Island boys over
the years; Dr. Roger Walsh, schoolmaster
and coach, who officiated at the first
interscholastic game ever played on
Thompson's Island in modern times; and
Dr. John B. Cook, supervisor of education
at the Academy, who in his younger dyys
was a battery mate of the immortal Christy
Mathewson while both were students at
Bucknell.

Jeweled mementoes, a gift from Jack
Hobson, '27, were presented each mem-
ber of the squad. Headmaster Houghton
D. Pearl awarded the football certificates.
Assistant coaches Maurice McAllister and
Donald Margiano presented the football
letters.

The members of the squad:

Thomas Angelos Paul Johnston

Gerald Briggs Philip Johnston

Loren Gain William James

William Cain John Kryzanowski

Earl Chamberlain John Lennon

John Cronin Harold McAnney

Thomas Cronin George McPeek

Robert Grossman Howard Murphy

Albert Ellis Stanton Pearson

David Picks Donald Taylor

Barry Fuller Basil Velas

Robert Grignon Steven Wellington

Walter Grignon Michael Williams

John Harris John Wooddell

News of the Alumni
Clarence P. Hobson, '25. studied
at Mechanics Arts High School and at the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He
has done very well in the field of
Mechanical Engineering, and is presently
employed by the Jackson & Moreland,
Inc., of Boston, as a Power Plant De-
signer. He has two children, Betty, a

nurse, and Lt. J. G., stationed in the
San Diego Naval Hospital. His son,
Clarence David, is a Sophomore at Wey-
mouth High School. Like his father,
Clarence is a fine trombonist. Mrs.
Hobson is a teacher in the Weymouth
school system.

Mr. Hobson is deeply interested in
Masonry. He has been Master of his
Lodge, and in 1957 will be Monarch of
Taleb Grotto, of Quincy.

He has several hobbies, chief among
them being his home workshop where he
carries along the training he received here
in sloyd. The Hobsons live at 67 Aster
Circle, Weymouth, Mass.

Jack Hobson, '27, heads his own
concern, manufacturing jewelers, at North
Attleboro, Massachusetts. Through his
interest, our football squad received
minature gold footballs commemorating
the 1956 season. He had hoped to be
present at the banquet on December 11,
but the Christmas season is simply too
busy a time for him to take a holiday. In
June he will have reached the 30th mile-
stone of his graduation from Thompson
Academy. As he says, he was a little late
starting a family, but it was worth it, for
he has a lovely home and is especially
proud of the achievements of his eight
year old son. Like so many of the older
grads, FTS is nostalgic, but he likes the
name Thompson Academy, and is happy
that the school is moving ahead. He is
devoted to his Alma Mater, and is
thoroughly interested in knowing of the
changes the school Is making. The Hob-
sons live at 31 Power Street, Norton,
Mass.
Ofl&cers of the Alumni Association

Charles O. Rolfe. '15, President
George O. Poole, '27, Vice President

Clifton E. Albee, '21,^ Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol. 60 No. 9 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. Jan., 1957

Entered November 3, 1963 at Boston, Mas.., .. Second CUe, matter, ander Act of Contre.s, of July 6, 1874

Vermont Radio Publicity

Our headmaster, Mr. Pearl, had
opportunity to tell the story of Thompson
Academy over four radio stations in
Vermont during the Christmas recess.
The program, a long established popular
weekly production, is conducted by Mr.
Pearl's mother. It was a fine thing forus
to be able to reach this large Vermont
audience, and we appeciate the oppor-
tunity made possible by Mrs. Pearl. We
have a tape recording of the broadcast
and hope to give our friends opportunity
to hear it at a future Parent's Meeting
and at other times.

The Christmas Party
Christmas at Thompson's Island has
always been a time of great joy, and our
ninety-odd boys had a fine time this year.
The climax was reached on December 20,
when the annual school party was held.
All of the boys assembled in Chapel, and
under the direction of Mr. Thomas, a hol-
iday observance was enjoyed which will
be long remembered. There were gifts for
everyone, and Santa with his three assist-
ants had a busy time distributing the many
presents. After this part of the party was
completed, refreshments were enjoyed
and a special "Thank you" was given our
kitchen staff for the tasty cake, cookies,
punch and ice cream which were served.
After a short intermission a technicolor

movie, provided by Mrs. Arthur Adams
was shown. This picture was a product of
a major Hollywood studio and thorouilhly
enjoyed. When the boys left for home
and vacation on the following morning
they took with them the lasting memory
of a wonderfiil Christmas party held in
the hallowed hall which has been the
setting of similar events for well over a
century.

The Founding of Thompson Academy

Our school is now in its 143rd year,
and with such a long history there is
bound to be some confusion as to the
bona-fide founding of the Academy.
Legends are apt to spring into being
which are not entirely factual.

Actually, in 1813, Benjamin Greene,
Vvilliam Phillips, James Lloyd, William
Sullivan, and Samuel H. Walley, became
concerned over the plight of many very
young boys in Boston who were without
reasonable adult supervision. They de-
cided ro make a place for these lads, and
after severa' meetings aniJ the securing of
community support, they were granted an
Act of Incorporation by the General Court
of the Commonwealth, the Act being
passed by the House on Feb. 23, 1814
and by the Senate on Feb. 24, 1814. The
Act permitted these men the right to
institute a school, which ultimately has
Please turn to page 4

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

DoffipsoH's island Beacon

Published Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompion's Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 9

January 1957

Sabicription Price • •

. One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred G. Malm, Vice-President
Howland S. Warren, Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary

Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expires 1957
G«or|e P. Denny, M. D.
Ralph B. Williams

Thomas Temple Pond
Mason Sears

Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Alton B. Butler
Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MaoPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Willianjs

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

The greatest need of the world to-day
Is the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
service, the basic development plan at our
home school. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve his goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

Appearance

Since time immemorial young people,
and boys especially, have had to learn an
important lesson in the manner of appear-
ance. They are judged not so much by
what they are, but rather on how they
look. The matter of dress is of such im-
portance that they cannot afford to ignore
it.

Parents purchasing clothing for child-
ren do so with a sense of taste. But when
boys first begin to buy their own clothing,
with their tastes unfixed, they face the
danger of going to extremes. In any group
of young people one often notes a few
dressed in such a manner as to almost
bring ridicule. Seldom will one find an
adult attired in such fashion; he long ago
learned the value of the impression which
he creates by the clothes he wears.

Young people ought to value more
the lessons which they can learn by simple
observation. It takes no great effort to
see that successful men dress quietly, and
with good taste. Those who are less sure
of their stature often bolster their self
esteem by conspicuous attire. Yes, in-
deed, a pretty accurate indication of a
man's character may be determined by
his dress.

We read in the papers of young
people being sent home from school be-
cause of their clothing. We are thoroughly
in favor of such action. No one can dis-
pute the fact that a teacher, and later on,
an employer, has an inner consciousness
that a young fellow who dresses in good
taste is more worthy of respect and con-
fidence than one who does not.

It is the intelligent young fellow who
learns early in life the value of good
appearance and sensible dress.

"Clothes make the man" is a quota-
tion which certainly speaks volumes.
Young people especially should take heed.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Topics in Brief

We sadly announce the death of John
Gregorio, who came to us last September
as our boat captain. He vvas taken ill at
home, during the Christmas vacation,
and death came at the Boston City Hos-
pital on January 16. We knew Mr.
Fisher as a thinking Christian, and a good
husband and father. We extend sympathies
to Mrs. Fisher and the children.

Our sincere congratulations are ex-
tended Clarence P. Hobson, of the class
of 1925, upon his installation as Monarch
of the Taleb Grotto, of Quincy, on
January 17. Mr. Hobson has long been
interested in Masonic work, and the honor
bestowed upon him is richly deserved.

Christmas vacation began on Dec-
ember 21 and classes resumed on January
3. Most of the boys were home for the
entire period, and all of them were away
for at least part of the time.

A gala Christmas party was held in
the school chapel on the evening of Dec-
ember 20. The boys had previously
selected names by lot, and the presenting
of gifts was a merry scene. Everyone was
well remembered by Santa Claus whose
part at this party was enacted by Mr.
Albee. Following the tree program tasty
refreshments were served, and the holi-
day cake, prepared by Mr. Cox and his
staff, was a joy to behold.

The week of January 14 will be
recalled as a period of very cold weather,
the thermometer dropping to minus 13
degrees at one time. Dorchester bay was
well on its way to freezing solidly when
the always welcome January thaw set in
and relieved us of many worries, at least
temporally, as far as extreme cold weather
was concerned.

All of us at Thompson's Island take
this opportunity to thank Mrs. Arthur
Adams for providing a Christmas enter-
tainment of a wonderful technicolor
moving picture. Mrs. Adams has con-
tinued this annual gift, instituted many
many years ago by her husband, Arthur
Adams, whose loyalty and devotion to
the school was a symbol of inspiration.
Mr. Adams was for many years treasurer
and president of the Board of Trustees.

Basketball will be occupying the
center of interest for the next several
weeks. This youngest of the major sports
has become thoroughly popular with our
boys, and ten teams will play a total of
some sixty games before the season draws
to a close. The varsity and junior varsity
teams, as well as the Sears League and the
Nut League teams, have already com-
menced their tourney play.

Our hearts were warmed by a deluge
of Christmas good wishes received from
alumni, former students, trustees and
other friends of the academy. We truly
appreciate these remembrances, and it is a
fine thing to know that our friends are
thinking of us at such a busy season.
Thank you one and all for your friendly
greetings.

We hope that our readers read the
very fine article by Rudolph Elie, which
appeared on the editorial page of the
Boston Herald on January 9. The article,
which emphasized the school band, was
surprisingly complete and factual, and was
a tine tribute to our school and band.
Thank you, Mr. Elie.

Our paint shop crew has accomplished
a great deal during this winter season.
Many of the rooms in the main building
have been redecorated, and many minor
repairs made. The Hayden dormitories
have been given some attention also.

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

Continued from page 1

become Thompson Academy.

For their purpose the Governor
Phipps mansion, at the corner of Salem
and Charter Streets in Boston, was pur-
chased. This building was thus the first
home of Thompson Academy. Pupils
were accepted at the age of four, and the
facilities of the Boston public schools were
utilized for their instruction. When the
boys became old enough, at the age of
twelve or thereabouts, they were appren-
ticed to tradesmen, sea captains, farmers,
bankers and businessmen, all of whom
passed the careful scrutiny of town clergy
and selectmen. This apprentice system
was largely used in those days by families
in all walks of life, and was the most
efficient manner of enabling a boy to be-
come skilled in the field of his choice.

The first home of the school had
accommodations for approximately fifty
boys. They helped with the housework
in the school building, keeping the large
playground in shape, and did some work
in the school garden. Some of the boys
were taught to knit and spin, which in-
dicates that they may have produced for
themselves sn:iall articles of wearing
apparel. The regulations of the school
were very few, six in number, and dealt
with church attendance, individual re-
ligious instruction, daily chores, clothing,
food, and medical aid.

In our next issue we will continue
with this historical summary.

News of the Alumni
With this issue we welcome several
new alumni readers, and hope they enjoy
the paper. Comments are always gladly
received, and news of the alumni is apprec-
iated.

Theodore L. Jones, '50. after a
hitch in the air force, is back at North-
eastern. In addition to taking a rather

heavy collegiate course, he is working
part time, and thus his visits here have
been infrequent of late. He lives at 128
Hillside Road. Watertown, Mass.

George O. Poole, '27, class sec-
retary, has lost track of Thomas A. Hall,
the only member of the class who is not
on Mr. Poole's mailing list. If "Gus"
Hall reads this, will he drop a line to his
class secretary at 5 James Terrace,
Woburn, Mass.

John P. Richardson, '52 is a stu-
dent at the University of Massachusetts.
He recently won first prize for an exhibit
of a colonial homestead, and the Uni-
versity paper had a nice picture of his
work. It was a fine job, and the com-
mendation he received was richly deserved.

Francis D. McAuliffe, '36, has
been for some time official court stenog-
rapher for the Superior Court of Middle-
sex County. He keeps in close touch
with alumni happenings. His home
address is 70 Tufts Street, Arlington, Mass.

Edward J. Darr, of the Darr trio,
is the only "fit" member at the present
time, his two brothers being treated for
sickness. Thomas is at home practically
recovered, and Harold has a fractured
hand in a cast. Eddie is planning to carve
a career for himself in the Air Force. He
is presently based near home, and is an 1.
B. M. machine operator. The Darr's
live at 192 South Main Street, Freeport,
Long Island, N. Y.

A meeting of the Bell Fund Com-
mittee will be held soon. Will members
make every effort to be present?

OflBcers of the Alumni Association

Charles O. Rolfe, '15, President
George O. Poole, '27, Vice President

Clifton E. Albee, '21, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasuer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol. 60 No. 10 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. Feb., 1957

Entered Nevember 3, 1993 at Boston, Mass.. as SecoBd Class matter, under Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

Mr. Bartlett Addresses Parents Council

Calvin Page Bartlett, president of the
Board of Trustees, addressed the Parents
Council on February 3. He was intro-
duced by Mr. Pearl.

Mr. Bartlett spoke of the long history
of the school, 143 years to be exact. He
cited the members of the Board of Trustees
for their devotion and deep interest in the
Academy. He praised the Parents Council
for the help which they give all boys at
Thompson Academy,

The Academy has one purpose, Mr.
Bardett stated, and that is to serve sound,
promising ambitious boys, who can best
profit from the school's educational
opportunities.

Mr. Bartlett gave a picture of the
financial program of the Academy. He
spuke of a proposed building program,
and emphasized that it was quite possible
that construction of new facilities at the
island might be undertaken in the not too
distant future.

Mr. Bartlett's address was appreciated
very much by the parents, many of whom
took opportunity to speak with him after
the meeting.

Mrs. Kirk Walker

Occasionally we meet older alumni

who speak of instructors who served our

boys in their time. Invariably "Miss

Nichols" is named. She was our dietitian

for 25 years, and shortly after her retire-
ment from this work married Kirk Walker,
of Hyde Park. Mr. Walker, who has
since passed on, visited the school many
times at alumni gatherings, and was im-
pressed with the warm welcome his wife
received from her "boys." No one ever
learned to call her any name except "Miss
Nichols," at these events, and we recall
the many times Mr. Walker remarked
that he was visiting with "Miss Nichols."
Mrs. Walker has since passed on to join
her husband, but her warm, kind spirit
remains alive in the hearts of her "boys,"
whose careers she helped mold for a
quarter century.

The Founding of Thompson Academy

Part 2

In our last issue we named the men
who founded Thompson Academy and
told of the first home of the school, in
Boston.

The Boston building at Salem and
Charter Streets was filled to capacity, and
as the years went on it became evident
that many problems must be faced. To
bciiin with, the building needed repairs,
and it was not large enough to accom-
modate all those who sought admission.
Important also was the fact that additional
funds would need to be forthcoming.

In addition to the original founders
other men stepped forward to serve on
Continued on following page

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Cbompson's Island Deacon

Pubiiihed Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompion'i Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 10

February 1957

Subscription Price

One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred C. Malm. Vice-President
Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary
John B. Pierce, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt

Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williams

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Term Expires 1960
Ralph B. Williams
Thomas Temple Pond
Howland S. Warren
Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Peter Fuller
Clarence P. Hobson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

George P. Denny, M. D.
Mason Sears

The greatest need of the world to-day
i-9 the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
service, the basic development plan at our
home school. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve his goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

Continued from page 1

the Board and help solve these problems.
Gardiner Greene, Joseph Austin, Jon-
athan Chapman, Jr. and W. J. Loring
served as ofificers. Francis Parkman,
Abbot Lawrence, James Bowdoin, James
Merrill, William Appleton, Edward
Reynolds, E. H. Robbins, and Thomas
B. Curtis were among those who served
as trustees.

The permanent fund of the school
was built in an interesting manner. Upon
the payment of one hundred dollars a life
membership in the school's patron society
was granted. $10,000 was raised in this
way. Additional donations of $17,000
were received, including gifts of three
dollars each annually from more than
seven hundred friends. The list of these
early benefactors includes many of the
old, familiar Boston family names. Groups
also enjoyed making contributions, for
we find gifts from the Park Street Singing
Society, French Opera Company, Society
of Ladies, Harmonic Society, Social Fire
Society, Dorcas Society, Astronomical
Lecture receipts, and others.

In 1832 the school had been in
operation eighteen years, had paid its
bills, and had in addition to the school
building, $30,000 invested in the per-
manent fund. But the building needed
extensive repairs. Expenses had mounted
and the Trustees viewed their school's
financial structure with real concern.

A significant event then took place.
Under the leadership of the Hon. Charles
Jackson a group of men met in the Tre-
mont Bank, in Boston, to see if "a school
in the country to provide a good physical
and moral education for orphans, half
orphans and children of the helpless,"
could not be instituted. The plan was to
provide for boys aged seven to fourteen.
Thompson Academy, now well estab-
lished, took very young boys, beginning

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

with the age of four; its directors felt that
it could not care for boys who would
reach the age of fourteen as the Com-
mittee for the proposed new school
wished. James Bowdoin, a trustee of
Thompson Academy, was a charter
member of the Committee desiring to
institute the new school, and was thus an
important liaison between the two
groups.

We will continue this historical sum-
mary in our next issue.

The Hobby Shop

One of the rooms near the Snack
Bar has been set aside for a Hobby Shop.
There are four departments: the model
department, the jewelry department, the
leather department, and the stamp de-
partment.

The model department is in charge
of Dale Aiken. Here may be bought
model planes, cars and boats for assembly
and the various things necessary such as
"dope" for coloring, model cement and
X-acto knives. Some of the boys have
done very fine work. Alan Frazier has
built a boat with a motor that runs with
batteries.

The jewelry department is in charge
of Rexford Browne. Here costume jewel-
ry is made by Rex and his assistant
Ronald Oke. Pins, necklaces, ear rings,
rings and bracelets are made for the ladies
and tie clasps, rings and cufflinks for the
men. The jewelry is indeed beautiful
and sells for a reasonable price. Our
visiting parents and friends are the niain
purchasers.

The stamp department is under the
direction of Kenneth Ford, the president
of the Academy Stamp Club. Here the
members of the club meet to swap stamps
and talk over matters of philatelic interest.

The leather department under the
direction of Donald Maciel has very

recently been started. Leather wallets
and purses are in process. Belts and other
articles will be added later. Two of our
newest boys, Donald Corliss and Donald
Maciel, have previously done leather
work and should be of considerable
assistance in the department.

Topics in Brief

Our Pilgrim Fellowship group had a
fine, inspirational time at the Park Street
Church in Boston on February 10 when
they united with other young peoples'
groups in a special service, and afterwards
attended the Sunday evening service of
the church. Dr. Ockenga had a fine
message for the occasion.

The Parents Council held a fine meet-
ing on February 3. Mrs. Agnes Angelos
acted as chairman, in the absence of
President Ficks, who was confined to his
home because of illness. The next meet,
ing will take place on March 3, with
Lawrence Terry, Headmaster of Middle-
sex School as speaker.

The basketball season has been one of
much interest. The varsity is having one
of its better seasons, and the competition
in the Sears League and Nut League has
kept these intramural groups much con-
cerned. Nearly every boy is playing the
game under the supervision of four
faculty members.

The grove between the avenues is
being cleared of a few dead trees, and
other work is being done. Our athletic
field has been given its annual treatment
of fertilizer. Continual care, and plenty
of work, is required to keep our extensive
campus in beautiful condition.

Last spring we purchased an In-
ternational Cub tractor, and the occasion
was almost a celebration, for the company
sent photographers and other publicity

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

agents to get a full account of their
machine being transported by barge to
the school and of its subsequent use. It
has proved an invaluable aid to our
grounds crew, and is used on innumerable
jobs. This winter we had three weeks of
heavy snowfall, and, with the plow
attachments, the "cub" kept well ahead
of the storms, keeping our walks and
avenues well plowed.

We enjoy receiving the sea scout
paper "Now Hear This" published
monthly and mailed us by John Barry II,
who has long been interested in sea
scouting. The last issue noted the fact
that our unit has received a 38 foot picket
boat, in excellent condition. Our sea
scout boys are proud of their new ship,
and frequently the City Point trip is made
in our new boat.

Many of the boys are using their
leisure time to excellent advantage by
making a variety of articles in our sloyd
room. We wish that our readers could
see the cedar chests which are being
fashioned there, along with many other
excellent articles of woodwork.

News of the Alumni

Congratulations to the hosts! Guyon
William paid his first visit (all 6 lbs. of
him) to them on December 24, 1956.
The perfect Christmas present! Richard
J. Nelson, '40, and Mrs. Nelson, whose
home is at 13 Hillcrest Place, North
Caldwell, New Jersey, are the lucky
parents.

We salute GEORGE W. Berry, '83,
who played with our band in the late
1870'8. He has always retained a deep
interest in Thompson's Island, and we
were happy to hear from him recently,
for he is one of our older graduates. He
lives at 21 East Main St.. Merrimac,
Mass.

It gives us pleasure indeed to an-
nounce the marriage of Richard E.
Duquet, '46, to Ann Terhume Doyle, on
September 22, 1956, at Saint Andrews
Chapel, United States Naval Academy,
Annapolis, Maryland. We surely trust
that the happy couple will plan a visit
very soon to the school, where we may
ofTer congratulations in person.

Robert O. Cain, '53, appears to have
almost completed his duty in Hawaii
with the U. S. Navy. When his enlist-
ment is up he plans to study for the
ministry, for which he feels definitely
called. We thank him for his cards and
notes and hope a visit here is among his
plans as soon as he returns stateside.

Joseph C. Turner. Jr., '53. was
married September 14, 1956 at the Naval
Air Base Chapel, Glenview, Illinois, to
Ruth Diane Turner. We extend con-
gratulations to the happy couple.

After completing one year of college
work Joe enlisted for three years active
duty with the Naval Reserve, after which
service he plans to complete his college
course. The Turners' home is at 3511
Anchorage Court. Glenview, lllnois.

Malcolm E. Cameron. '19, for
many years was in the entertainment
field. He then entered the contracting
business in Sandown, N. H. in which he
has earned for himself a solid footing. He
does some entertaining today, although
strictly on a part time basis. His son
Malcolm. Jr., is attending Sanborn Sem-
inary.

OflBcers of the Alumni Association

Charles O. Rolfe, '15, President
George O. Poole, '27. Vice President

Clifton E. Albee, '21, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol, 60 No. 11 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. March, 1957

Entered N«rember 3, 1903 at Boston, Mass., as Second Class matter, nnder Act of Congress, of July 6, 1874

Mr. Terry Addresses Parents Council

At a meeting March 3 of the Parents
Council the members were singularly for-
tunate in having a thought-provoking talk
by Lawrence Terry, Headmaster of the
Middlesex School in Concord. Mr. Terry
discussed in a pleasant, informal manner
many of the problems which beset parents,
students and educators today. Elmer Picks,
President of the Council, voiced the
thoughts of everyone when he thanked
Mr. Terry for his address, adding that it
was one from which he was sure every
parent received both inspiration and
instruction. After his address, Mr. Terry
talked with many of the parents and
answered pertinent questions. It was surely
a fine meeting.

Mr. Terry, who has been a member
of our Board of Trustees for several years,
was introduced by Mr. Pearl. Later in the
day Mr. Terry visited many of the
departments of the Academy, meeting
several staff members and discussing
situations which are common in most
boarding schools.

The members of the Parents Council,
as well as the school staff, appreciate very
much Mr. Terry's kindness in taking time
from a busy schedule to be with us.

The next meeting of the Parents
Council will be held on March 31, when
the program will be given by the students.

It is hoped that a banner attendance will
be present for what promises to be a most
interesting meeting.

The Founding of Thompson Academy

Part 3

In tlie first of three articles covering
this subject we discubst d the beginning of
our school in Boston, and in the second
article told of a group formed to help
boys two or three years older than those
served by Thompson Academy as it was
first established.

This second group, headed by the
Hon. Charles Jackson, lost little time in
going ahead with plans for a new school
for older boys. On January 27, 1832 a
fund raising campaign was started and
soon $23,000 was raised. Thompson's
Island was purchased as the home of the
new school from George W, Beale for
$6,000. In March, 1833, the new school
was incorporated.

The Rev. E. M. P. Wells, long a
champion of boys in want, came to
Thompson's Island on Easter Monday,
April 8, 1833, with his assistant, Mr.
Clough, and three boys. An old farm
house on the island served as the first
meeting place, and prayers for the new
school were given. Then a white mul-
berry tree was planted on Mansion Hill,
site of the main building to be erected that
year.

Continued on following page

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Cbomp$on'$ island Beacon

Pubiished Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompson's Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 11

March 1957

Subscription Price

. One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Page Bartlett, President
Alfred G. Malm, Vice-President
Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary
John B. Pierce, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Term Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williams

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Term Expires 1960
Ralph B. Williams
Thomas Temple Pond
Howland S. Warren
Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Peter Fuller

Clarence P. Hobson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

George P. Denny, M. D.
Mason Sears

The greatest need of the world to-day
Is the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
aervice, the basic development plan at our
home school. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve his goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

Continued from page 1

The farm house was sadly in need of
repairs, and for the next two months Mr.
Wells and a few boys went to the island
each day. They first repaired and cleaned
the farm house, then planted a garden.
Mr. Wells was in consultation with Mr.
Bulfinch, the architect for the new build-
ing, and with the builders. Plans for the
main building and a stone dock were
made and approved. The first supplies
for the school were a barge and yoke of
oxen, one for transporting on land, the
other by sea.

On June 6. 1833 Mr. Wells, two
assistants and fourteen boys moved to the
island permanently. This group comprised
the first student body and faculty on
Thompson's Island.

On August 3, 1833 ground for the
Main Building was broken. The next few
weeks were busy ones indeed. The
workmen, assisted by the pupils, con-
structed the main building and barn, dug
the well and cleaned the spring. Oxen,
cows and sheep were purchased and the
farm areas laid out.

We cannot help but refifCt upon the
devoted spirit of the Rev. Mr. Wells and
his boyj, and the real joy they must have
felt as they saw the results of their work.
For, only two months later, the buildings
were completed and Daniel Chandler
came with a larger group of boys. Mr.
Wells returned to his ministry and Mr.
Chandler assumed charge of the school.

A great many of the supporters of
Thompson's Island were also vitally in-
terested in the school founded in the town
of Boston in 1814. The old school was
situated in the city where growing com-
merce and industry made it apparent
that the location could not remain ideal.
Expenses had mounted. Friends of both
schools could see great benefits from the
combining of their efforts, and happily.

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

on March 5, 1835, the assets of the Boston
school were transferred to the Thompson's
Island corporation. That the island school
received great benefits from this union is
to put it mildly, for it was a period of
financial stress, and in addition to the
permanent fund of the old school, the
property was sold for an additional
$21,000. It gave the Thompson's Island
directors the impetus to forge ahead.
More important, it gave to the boys of
the intown school far greater benefits. It
was a fortunate and happy union.

On June 5, 1835, the boys, 52 in
number, and their matron, moved to
their new campus on Thompson's Island
to join the pupils already enrolled there.

This series will be continued in our
next issue.

Topics in Brief

Our academic department has been
busy in recataloging our textbooks. Many
new publications have been purchased,
especially for use in our language depart-
ment. A casual observer notes with
interest the practical way publishers are
preparing their books for use in schools,
particularly in the attractive type layout
and the extensive use of illustrations.

The Pilgrim III has been rewired so
that the interior lighting is much more
efficient, with new dome type fixtures.
Other important work on the boat has been
accomplished. 1 he boys are working on
the project of painting and making minor
repairs on our four oared rowboat.
Marine life appeals to most boys, and in
our location many opportunities are open
for them to learn much about mainten-
ance and operation of water craft.

Some of the boys have been u.ing
their spare time in constructing large cedar
chests. These never fail to arouse the

admiration of visitors, for they are
beautifully made, and are a very practical
model of woodwork. The sloyd room is
a very busy place during leisure hours, for
not only are such projects as cedar chests
under construction, but also many other
fine pieces, such as lamps, trays and boat
models.

February 26 will be remembered as a
very unusual day weatherwise, for the
temperature nearly reached 70°, and it
did not take the boys long to forsake
basketball for baseball. It was the warmest
February day in the history of the Boston
weather bureau, and probably the earliest
day that baseball has been the order of the
day on Thompson's Island.

A new 9i^ horse power hand-fired
vertical fire tube boiler has been installed
in our power house, replacing the old
one, a move which was recommended by
our insurance company. The new one pres-
ently supplies heat for the steam laundry,
and soon will be tied in on a kitchen line
so as to service new equipment to be
installed in our kitchen.

A happy custom, of long standing, is
the attention given the birthdays of the
pupils. Once each month a special
"Birthday Dinner" is served those who
have birthdays during the month, and the
event, which takes place under the super-
vision of Mr. Kehew, is always pleasurable
and memorable.

Every Saturday morning Mr. Pearl
inspects the dormitory rooms and a prize
is given those who show the greatest
attention to room care. Groups winning
these prizes recently have attended the
Sportsman's Show, and a Bruins hockey
game. The room prizes are never
announced in advance, and a variety is
striven for. The boys enter the weekly
contest seriouslv.

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

The boys were home for winter
vacation from February 15 until Feb-
ruary 24. A few boys remained at the
Bchool.

The Band Hears Com. MacMillan
The Engineers Blue Room Club, a
Masonic organization, invited our band
to entertain at its March 9 meeting. The
boys were served a tasty dinner and
shortly after played a program which
featured concert, novelty, and military
march music. During the concert the
boys, much to the delight of everyone,
sang the Happy Birthday song in honor
of Mr. Warren's 79th birthday. Mr.
Warren, who has led our band since
1923, was assisted by Howard B. Ellis,
our alumnus and former bandmaster, and
who takes a keen interest in the band.

After the band concert it was the
great pleasure of all to hear a lecture by
Commander Donald MacMillan, noted
arctic explorer, who showed moving
pictures of his trips to the far north.
Commander MacMillan stated that he
has completed plans for another expe-
dition which will leave in June. The
lecture was superb, and one which will be
recalled with pleasure for a lifetime. Com-
mander MacMillan shook hands with
many of our boys, and expressed a wish
to visit the school, which we hope he will
do very soon.

Nevv^s of the Alumni
The alumni committee studying the
Bell Fund had a fine meeting on February
14. Several proposals, each designed to
utilize the Fund for a definite and positive
service were discussed. Some of these will
be recommended for voting action by the
Association at the next business meeting.

We were happy to receive the first
issue of "The Poly-Vue", a new publi-
cation issued by National Polychemicals,
Inc., of Wilmington, Mass. EDWARD V.

OSBERG, '22, President and General
Manager of the company may well be
proud of the great strides foward which
the Company has taken, since its quiet
beginning in a one room ofifice in Boston
just four short years ago. The plant now
occupies sixty acres, in Wilmington, Mass-
achusetts, has sixty employees, and a
brochure recently received pictures some
of the work of the company and shows
the several buildings which comprise the
plant. Rubber, plastic and related indus-
tries are served by National Polychemicals.

WiLLARD G. SCHROEDER, '24, writes
from Washington where he has been
located for many years. He is much
interested in Thompson Academy news,
and hopes to come East in the not too
distant future and visit the school. His
address is 710 Front St., Mukiltea,
Washington.

Stephen H. Vinal, '38, writes that
he regrets having missed the last meeting of
the Bell Fund Committee. He is an
Attorney at Law, with address at 21 Bowes
Street, Quincy 69, Mass.

Teyet Ramar, '53, has written a
newsy letter from Texas, where he is on
duty as a musician with the 3510th Air
Force Band at Randolph AFB. He begins
his letter by extending congratulations to
our Band on its one hundredth anni-
versary. He adds that his musical duties
are very pleasant, and that he has plenty
of time to travel. It has been a year and
a half since he has visited Thompson
Academy, but he has heard much news
of the school through alumni mailings.

OflScers of the Alumni Association

Charles O. Rolfe, '15, President
George O. Poole, *27, Vice President

Clifton E. Albee, '21, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

Vol, 60 No. 12 Printed at Thompson Academy, Boston, Mass. April, 1957

Entered Narember 3, 1903 at Boston, Mast., aa Second Class matter, under Act of Conjrest, of July 6, 1874

Anniversary Band Notice

This is a great and wonderful year
for our school band, as it observes its One
Hundredth Anniversary. Exercises to
commemorate the event will take place at
the Anniversary Concert, to be held in
Faneuil Hall on Wednesday evening,
April 24, at eight o'clock.

All our friends are warmly invited to
attend this concert. An interesting
program is being arranged and we are
confident that the evening will be a
pleasant and memorable occasion. No
admission tickets are required. Please
attend, and bring your friends.

We have gone to considerable ex-
pense this year with our music program.
The Band has been fitted to new uniforms,
a conservative Navy style, which we are
sure our friends will like. The boys will
play at the school music festivals, and
participate in other events. Any contri-
butions that our readers may care to make
toward these rather heavy expenses will
be gratefully received. Please send your
gift to the Thompson Academy Band
Fund, Thompson's Island, Boston 27.
Your help and interest will be warmly
appreciated.

Parents "Back to School" Day

The meeting of the Parents Council,
held on March 31, was devoted to a
"Back to School" program. At a short

assembly the schedule was explained by
Mr. Pearl and the Council President, Mr.
Picks. Printed instructions had been given
each parent, so that there was a minimum
of delay or confusion.

The parents visited each class where
the teacher explained the courses which
their boys were taking. The progress
made during the year was of particular-
interest, as was the content of the courses.
Time was sufficient so that the parents
were able to ask questions and to discuss
the evaluation of the marking system used
in each class.

After classes there was a meeting of
the entire council, at which time appre-
ciation wail expressed to the academic staflF
for the very informative period. It was
the unanimous opinion that the "Back to
School" type of meeting should be held
more often.

The Founding of Thompson Academy

Part 4

In our previous issues we discussed the
organization of Thompson Academy in
Boston in 1814, of the Thompson's Island
school in 1832, and the union of both in
1835. On June 9, 1835, Mrs. Katherine
Hinsell, matron of the Boston school came
to Thompson's Island with 51 pupils. She
remained with her boys for nearly eight
weeks, assisting in the organization of the

Continued on following page

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

Cbompson's U\m& Beacon

Published Monthly by

THOMPSON ACADEMY

Thompsoa'i Island, Boston Harbor

A PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS OF EXCELLENT

CHARACTER SUPPORTED BY ENDOWMENTS.

TUITION FEES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Houghton D. Pearl

Headmaster

Vol. 60 No. 12

April 1957

Subscription Price

One Dollar Per Year

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Calvin Pa^e Bartlett, President
Alfred G. Malm. Vice-President
Bartlett Harwood, Jr., Treasurer
Merton P. Ellis, Secretary
John B. Pierce, Jr., Assistant Secretary

Terra Expires 1958
Gorham Brooks

Donald S. MacPherson
Philip H. Theopold
* Augustus P. Loring

Robert H. Gardiner
E. Francis Bowditch
Myron A. Pratt
Term Expires 1959
Leverett Saltonstall
Moses Williams

George S. Mumford, Jr.
Frederic Winthrop
John Lowell

Samuel Tyler, Jr., D. D.
G. George Larsson
Term Expires 1960
Ralph B. Williams
Thomas Temple Pond
Howland S. Warren
Lawrence Terry
John Q. Adams
Peter Fuller

Clarence P. Hobson
Advisory Committee
N. Penrose Hallowell
Edwin H. Place, M. D.
James H. Lowell
Charles E. Mason

George P. Denny, M. D.
Mason Sears

The greatest need of the world to-day
U the rebuilding of the Christian spirit of
service, the basic development plan at our
home school. Why not help a fine, worthy
boy achieve his goal by making a financial
contribution to America's best investment?

Continued from page 1

household. There were very few boys on
the island at the time these 51 students
arrived. Captain Daniel Chandler con-
tinued as head of the school.

Classes were held for the first time on
June 20, the enrollment being 54 scholars.
The present chapel was used as the school-
room. Reading, spelling, arithmetic, and
geography were emphasized. Classes were
held for the fiill year, and for six days
weekly. Sunday was strictly observed as
the Sabbath.

The Headmaster of the school kept a
very complete record of the achievements
of every scholar. He presided at the daily
morning and evening chapel periods, and
performed the Sunday religious services.
He stressed the importance of academic
instruction, and in j^eneral was held com-
pletely responsible for the moral training
of the pupils.

The farm was under the direction of
a farm superintendent, who, during the
summer, had a workman to assist him.
Pupils of suitable age were assigned work
on the farm. The farm superintendent
not only took care of the farm, but also
was responsible for the boats, made all
school purchases except the boys' clothing,
and had a multitude of other duties. He
had the general superintendency of the
entire island, and was responsible for the
"washing, mending, board and cooking,"
for the school.

The island was practically bare of
trees. In fact, an early print of the
island recently sent us by Alfred C.
Malm, '00, shows only two trees of
substantial size, one of course being the
grand Old Elm. The Main Building.
a small barn, the stone dock, and an old
farm house were the only structures on the
island. The enrollment grew during that
first summer from 54 to 75 students. The

THOMPSON'S ISLAND BEACON

boys slept in one room on the third floor,
attended classes in a body under one
teacher, raised much of their food, and
made a ^ood many of the clothes they
wore.

In concluding this series of four articles
on the founding of Thompson Academy
it is certainly fitting to once again salute
those men whose foresight and public
spirit caused them to be called "The
Keepers of the New England Conscience."
In establishing a school for boys, they, in
reality, erected for themselves an imper-
* ishable memorial to their fidelity, faith
and duty.

Topics in Brief

We welcome the return of Mark C.
Baird, who is helping on our farm during
this busy season. Mr. Baird was our farm
superintendent for over a quarter of a cen-
tury until his resignation in 1955. We
know that he will be of tremendous help
to us.

The varsity baseball team has begun
its schedule of eleven games. This will
be only the second year that we have
played interscholastic baseball. We are
embarking on another new program this
year, that of interscholastic baseball for a
junior team. This team will play seven
games.

An excellent intramural series of soft-
ball contests will be played by those boys
not members of the varsity groups. We
plan to have every boy play either base-
ball or Softball, and annually the interest
in these sports is great.

The Band will have a busy spring
season, with seven concerts, festivals and
parades scheduled. Our readers are cor-
dially invited to attend the concert at
Faneuil Hall, Boston, April 24, at 8:00
p. m.

Our Boy Scout troop and Explorer
unit have just completed renewal of reg-
istration for the Scout year beginning on
April 30. We have excellent opportunity
for scouting and hope to develop a strong
program in this very line activity.

The senior class had an outing this
month! The first plane ride for any of
the boys — with one exception. A half
hour flight from the Norwood airport
gave the boys a good view of Boston and
the surrounding communities. They all
agreed that no spot looked lovelier than
Thompson's Island.

The pleasant voice which so often
greets our friends making telephone calls
here is that of Mrs. Lauretta Cox, our
school secretary. Mrs. Cox has been with
us for three years, coming to us from a
similar position with a Boston church.
Among her many talents outside the sec-
retarial field is that of an artist, and she is
presently designing a new school seal.

Our headmaster spoke to a Melrose
church group on a recent Sunday and
showed colored slides of academy activi-
ties. An account of his lecture was featured
in the Melrose Free Press. Mr. Pearl's
appearance at this meeting was arranged
by Edward E. Andrew, '35. Incidentally,
it should be noted that a representative of
the school is always available for speaking
engagements.

During the Easter vacation period
the Pilgrim Fellowship group held a
spring social party, under the direction of
the group sponsor, Mr. Kehew. The party
was very successful. In regard to the Fel-
lowship, we are happy to say that the
organization has had a steady, healthy
growth. Membership is voluntary, and
the group is governed by its elected officers,
under the supervision of its sponsor.

THOMPSON S ISLAND BEACON

News of the Alumni

R. Barry Gorrill, *53, has written
from Landstuhl Air Base, Germany and
tells of a few of his experiences. Two
hobbies, music and photography, have
given both pleasure and profit to him. He
has appeared in many shows as trumpet
soloist. He has "covered" many im-
portant events with his camera, and does
some work in portraiture. He has had
opportunity to travel and see many of the
important cities in Europe, Rome, Pisa,
Paris, Marseille, Copenhagen, Cologne,
Hamburg, Munich, Frankfurt and old
Heidelberg, to name a few. He is looking
ahead to next year when he hopes to tour
England and Ireland. His address is: 526th
Fighter Interceptor Squardron, APO 65,
New York.

# Harold Y. Jacobs, '10, can always
be depended upon to lend his support and
interest to the work of our Association,
even though he has for many years been
located in Chicago and unable to attend
our functions. He is connected with the
Interchemical Corporation, Printing Ink
Division. In a recent note he tells us that
his uncle, Samuel C. Denton, was a mem-
ber of the very first Thompson Academy
Band, and was one of those who went
with Bandmaster Morse to serve in the
Union army as Civil War musicians.

David W. Howard. '54, is a
freshman at Wentworth Institute and
writes that he likes his schoolwork there
very much. His address is 10 Lawson
Road, Winchester, Mass.

Albert E. Peterson. *21, upon
discharge from the Navy in October,
1945, secured work for the U. S. Govern-
ment and is now the Operating Engineer
of the Veterans Administration Medical
Outpatient Building in Boston. He writes
that he hopes to visit the school soon and

note the many changes which have been
effected. He lives at 13 Merrimac Street,
Woburn, Mass.

John S. Higgins, '48, writes that
he has been married for nearly five years
and has a daughter nearly two years old.
About a year ago he bought his own home
and the family is very happy there. He is
a milk salesman. His address is 57 Elm
Street, East Bridgewater, Mass.

Edward A. Atton '54, is a member
of the U. S. Coast Guard, and is fortu-
nate in being based near home, at Gay
Head Life Boat Station, Martha's Vine-
yard.

Henry A. Schramm, '29, sends us
a note telling us that his home is now at
100 Garden Street, Hingham. He writes
that he is pleased to note the definite and
excellent progress being made by the
school and that the future certainly looks
bright for Thompson Academy.

Herbert L. Dudley, '16, has for
many years been engaged in the cranberry
business. He has charge of 50 acres of bog
in North Carver, and is foreman for the
A. D. Makepeace Co. He hopes to visit
the school soon, and we suggest to him
and all graduates that June 1, Alumni
Day, will be a perfect time for a reunion
at Thompson's Island.

Attention alumni! Don't fail to attend
the 100th Anniversary Concert by the
Band on April 24.

Notice will be sent soon of the spring
meeting of the Alumni Association. It will
bean important meeting. Please plan to
be present.
Ofl&cers of the Alumni Association

Charles O. Rolfe, '15, President
George O. Poole, '27, Vice President

Clifton E. Albee, '21, Secretary

Donald S. MacPherson, '17, Treasurer

G. George Larsson, '17, Historian

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