Johnann Williams, the Selwyn House School Archivist, is a wealth of knowledge and always enjoyable to chat with. Recently, we've been discussing Mr. Somers W. Cox, a past board member, former parent of the school, and the namesake of a building on campus. Cox was born in 1911 in Christchurch, New Zealand and he represented New Zealand at the 1932 Summer Olympics. He is listed as New Zealand Olympian athlete number 26 by the New Zealand Olympic Committee.  Currently, the Somers Cox Building is undergoing an exciting and extensive renovation. When the work is completed, the building will feature six state-of-the-art classrooms. But who was Mr. Somers Cox?

From the archives, Johnann was able to provide some fascinating family history. Of his three children, Angela (the Head Prefect in 1956), attended Selwyn House School. Johnann also gathered a list of alumni who may have known Angela or were around during that era.

Our conversation about history and memories sparked an idea. In the spirit of reconnecting with alumni, a few phone calls were made. Two conversations in particular have been with Penny Klap (Peer Year 1956) and Louise Rolleston (Peer Year 1964), who have been instrumental in helping us reconnect with alumni, particularly in the Wellington and Wairarapa regions. Freddy Acland's (Peer Year 1955) and Mary Chapman's (Peer Year 1958) enthusiasm for this event is also endearing! They each have helped build awareness and excitement amongst the Wellington/Wairarapa alumni. This is a true example of the strong and supportive environment that is fostered within our alumni community, and from which all alumni can benefit.  

What began as a discussion about history and shared experiences has now turned into something new: a morning tea to be held on Tuesday, 8 April, at the home of Louise Rolleston in Wellington. 

This upcoming gathering is a testament to the enduring nature of connection. Friendships formed in our younger years can last across decades, even when communication lapses. No matter how recently you have become an alumni, it should be reassuring of the strength in the Selwyn House School community. This morning tea is shaping up to be a very special event! 

Even those who attended the Afternoon Tea in Christchurch on Thursday, 20 March, were delighted to hear about the names of those invited. In addition, we will take this opportunity to celebrate the upcoming 100th birthday of Yvonne Riddiford (Peer Year 1938), which will take place at the end of April. It's remarkable to think about all the experiences and stories Yvonne has gathered over the past century, which is another reminder that the upcoming 100th anniversary of Selwyn House School (in 2029) is a significant milestone. 

The past three weeks have also reinforced the importance of keeping alumni contact details up to date. Many of our records date back to your student years, so please make sure your contact information: phone number, postal or physical address, and email address is current. This will ensure we can keep you informed of all future news and events. 

If you would like to send a message to those attending the 8 April morning tea, or share a birthday greeting for Yvonne, please email community@selhouse.school.nz, and I'll be happy to share your words and messages. Alternatively, if you're in the Wellington area and would like to attend the morning tea on Tuesday 8 April, or the evening Wellington Regional Event planned for 26 June, please do hesitate to reach out. 

Words by Jennifer Shepherd