Torch - Spring/Summer 2019

125 Years of Havergal College

1910 The Grandchildren’s Party was started by Principal Ellen Knox for Old Girls and their descendents. At this event, Old Girls, their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoy an afternoon of activities and games at the school.

1894 Havergal College opens on September 11, with seven

Boarders and 31 Day students at 350 Jarvis St. Havergal’s First Principal is Ellen Knox, who remained in the position until her death in 1924. She was know for asking students: “What are you going to do?”

1896 The first alumnae association that was established for Old Girls was the Havergal Coverley Club. It was a monthly literary society that supported continuing education for Old Girls. Today, the Old Girl community includes more than 9,500 alumnae worldwide.

1914 The publication Chronicle (then known as the Coverley Chronicle ) was first published.

1898 The first edition of Ludemus , the school yearbook, was published in 1898. The name is taken from the original school motto: Opere Peracto Ludemus (“When our work is finished, we shall play”).

1924 The Havergal College school song, written in 1924, is entitled Vitai Lampada Tradens . The title refers to the school motto, translated as “passing on the torch of life.”

1923 The Stoneager title was originally given by the first reunion group of Old Girls to themselves, when they joked “The Stone Age Awakes!” and “The Stone Age Leads the Way!” The name continues to be used today for Old Girls who graduated 60 or more years ago.“

1912 An official school uniform was instated, putting an end to, as Principal Ellen Knox wrote, “extravagant blouses... which are practically evening dress.” In 1923, Havergal introduced the tunic, which is still worn today.