THE SCHOOL
Old Blues
The Liverpool Blue Coat Brotherly Society (also known as the “Old Blues’ Association”) was founded in 1838, with the principle objective of assisting, advising and promoting the well-being of the boys who attended the school. Members of the Society would “look after” Blue Coat boys for at least two years after they left the School, visiting them at home or work, and providing financial assistance where necessary and appropriate. This was of great benefit to the boys, and the care thus shown had a tremendous influence on the lives and careers of these boys.
Since the School’s return to Liverpool after the Second World War, there has been less need for this sort of assistance, so the Society has turned its efforts towards objects that would benefit the School in general. Evidence of the generosity of the Society over the years can be found throughout the School.
In 1938, to celebrate its centenary, the Society provided the oak pews in the Chapel. In 1963 (the Society’s 125th anniversary) they provided the stained glass south window of the Chapel. The Old Blues’ Memorial Library was presented in 1952 in remembrance of the Old Blues who gave their lives in the two World Wars. The splendid gates in front of the old main entrance were provided in 1958, when the School celebrated its 250th anniversary.
Membership of the Society is open to all former pupils (boys and girls) and teachers.
The predominant items on the Society’s agenda at the moment are the Tri-centenary celebration weekend in 2008, when past pupils will be travelling from many parts of the world to visit the School that served them so well in their formative years, and the publication of three autobiographical books about the school.
“A Blue Coat Boy in the 1920s” by Danny Ross was first published in 1996. Danny passed away in 2004, but his family has kindly allowed us to re-publish this unique book.
“Memories from the Mid-20th Century” has been compiled by former pupil Frank Irwin, and contains memories of many pupils from the 1920s to the 1970s, as well as teachers Frank Hulford and Peter Ling (available 18th December 2007).
“Return to the Blue Coat” by Tony Salmon and Alan Gleave tells the story of both a pupil and a teacher from the 1970s.
To find out more, please visit the official website of the Brotherly Society
at:
www.bluecoatbrotherlysociety.webeden.co.uk
Other links in this section: