Presented During the Trophies Assembly FOREWORD is is not a history of prizes and awards, or even an account of every one issued today. I have attempted to cover most which have been awarded recently, but would welcome any amendments or further information, especially regarding those about which we know very little. is Trophies Assembly would not have been possible without the generosity of people associated with Watson’s over the years. As we progress through the twenty-first century, we continue to seek donors who can help to ensure that a Watson’s education is of the highest standard and is accessible to pupils irrespective of financial background. For more information on supporting the important work of the George Watson’s Family Foundation, please contact the Development Office.

Mr Les Howie, GWC History Department, 2007 CONTENTS ANGLING The Thornielee Cup for Angling ...... 1 ATHLETICS The Archie Bain ...... 1 The Berry Trophy ...... 1 The Border Cup for the 100 Yards...... 1 The Buchanan Trophy...... 1 The ...... 2 The Canada Cup ...... 2 The Forrest Bowl...... 2 The Girls’ U14 Athletics Championship ...... 2 The Girls’ U15 Championship...... 2 The Cup...... 2 The Intermediate Champion ...... 3 The Intermediate Champion ...... 3 The Intermediate Long Jump Cup ...... 3 The 1919 Watsonian Club Cup...... 3 The Peter MacLean Cup for the 220 Yards Open...... 3 The CC McLeod Silver Challenge Bowl or Loving Cup ...... 4 The McNeillage Trophy ...... 4 The Ovens Trophy ...... 4 The Jack Paterson Bowl for the Half-Mile...... 5 The ‘Presidents’ Cup...... 5 The Ranken Memorial Trophy for the 1500 Metres...... 6 The Senior High Jump ...... 6 The Senior Relay Race...... 6 The Trees Shield ...... 6 The Hugh Welsh Cup...... 7 The West of England Cup...... 7 The lain and Wilson Cup for Sport...... 8 The Boys’ Singles and the Girls’ Singles Badminton Championships...... 8 The Craig Brown Cup ...... 8 The Forrester Trophy...... 8 Badminton Misc ...... 8 BRIDGE The Brodie Hall Trophy for Bridge Pairs...... 9 CHESS The Hill Trophy ...... 9 The Kirk Mackie Trophy for Superiority at Cricket ...... 9 The Kirk Mackie Trophy for Cricket, July 1906 ...... 9 HOUSE TROPHIES The Harry Jamieson Trophy...... 10 House Athletics...... 10 Inter-House Badminton...... 10 Inter-House ...... 11 Inter-House Debating...... 11 Inter-House : The India Cup...... 11 Inter-House Hockey: Morrison Inches ...... 11 Inter-House Hockey: The Helen Flockhart Cup...... 11 Inter-House Lawn Championships ...... 12 Inter-House Life Saving...... 12 Inter-House March Hare Race...... 12 Inter-House ...... 12 Inter-House Relay: The Miss Garrow Cup ...... 12 Inter-House Rugby ...... 12 The Harry Armour Cup ...... 13 Inter-House Shooting...... 13 Inter-House Swimming: The Cameron Lees Shield ...... 14 The Cousland Cup...... 14 Inter-House Volleyball...... 14 The Junior Houses Challenge Trophy ...... 14 Top House...... 14 House Championships ...... 15 RUGBY The Eric Milroy Trophy...... 16 SAILING Middle School Trophy ...... 16 SWIMMING The William Gibson Cup ...... 16 The Hamilton Challenge Shield...... 16 Parents’ Liaison Quaich ...... 16 The Rudkin Trophy ...... 16 Rutherford Trophy ...... 16 Swimming Champion ...... 16 TENNIS The Ian Hamilton Inches Trophy ...... 17 The Jarvis Trophy...... 18

1 ANGLING  The Thornielee Cup for Angling Presented in June 1975 by Dr S Ramsay of Peebles. In 1951, one of the strangest gifts ever offered to Watson’s was one of Fishing Rights on the Tweed presented by Mr J Lownie. e stretch is a two-mile one at ornielee, midway between Walkerburn and Clovenfords. Part of the agreement was the creation of a School Angling Club which, if ever disbanded, would result in the fishing rights being withdrawn. Due to local complaints about the waste of good fishing rights to a bunch of ungrateful townies, boys who went to fish were instructed to wear their blazers so that the locals could see that it was being used, and often. ATHLETICS  The Archie Bain Trophy Archie Bain was School Champion at the Annual Games from 1922– 1925, an amazing achievement and the only person ever to have been School Champion for four successive years. In 1922, he won the 100 yards, the 220 and the 120 Hurdles without being pressed in any way. “A J Bain again ran out champion equalling the School record by 10 4/5secs for the 100 yards.” (e Watsonian, July 1923) “But Bain’s versatility was shown by the fact that he won the 100 yards, 220 yards, 440 yards, half- mile, hurdles and long jump and Archie Bain Archie Bain winning the 100 Yards, was 3rd in the high jump ….” (e May 1923, in 10 4/5th seconds. Watsonian, July 1925) Dr Archie Bain died on 4 January 1972, a highly respected physician and psychiatrist who had worked for many years with the Davidson Clinic. e trophy is now used for the S5–S6 Individual Boys Championship......  The Berry Trophy Presented by Mr and Mrs Berry in 2005 for the best Javelin performance. (Best Performance: A Berry, 47.75m, 2005) ......  The Border Cup for the 100 Yards Presented by the Border Watsonian Club in March 1924 and first competed for at the Annual Games in May of that year. e winner was H M Smith in a time of 11 and 1/5th seconds. It is now the 100 Metres (110 Yards) Race for S5–S6 Boys. e Games Day Record is 11 seconds set by J McWhinnie in 1971......  The Buchanan Trophy Presented by Craig Buchanan, Athletics Captain, 1996. is is for the S5–S6 Boys’ Discus Championship. e best performance has been N Sandilands, 41.52m, in 1970. Craig Buchanan was a star from S1 when, in 1992, he broke two long standing field event records: firstly, the S2 Discus record and then that of the Shot Put. In 1994, Craig beat the Junior Shot Put record.

1  The Calcutta Cup “A M Murchison was the best of the present pupil competitors gaining the handsome Cup presented by C C McLeod, Esq of Calcutta for the greatest number of victories at the Sports.” (Athletic Club Minutes, 1891/92) A record in itself: the oldest Cup still in continuous use. It is now awarded to the S3–S4 Boys’ Athletic Champion.

See also ‘e CC McLeod Silver Challenge Bowl or Loving Cup.’

......  The Canada Cup is was presented in April 1910 by Canadian Watsonians for competition at the Annual School Games. e President, Mr W G Falconer, delivered the following as part of his speech at the Dinner on Founder’s Day: “All of us look back on our school days as the happiest time of our lives, and none of us, I feel sure, can reflect upon that time without feeling, as we advance in years, that we owe a debt of gratitude to those days and our old School. … e Cup, as the inscription shows, bears the name of the Canada Club, and is surrounded with maple leaves, our national emblem, surmounted by a crown. It has been subscribed to by Watsonians in Toronto, , , and elsewhere in Canada…” It is used as an award for the winners of the Relay Race at the Annual Games......  The Forrest Bowl For the Boys’ S5–S6 Javelin. (Best performance: D Walker, 57.48m, 1971) ......  The Girls’ U14 Athletics Championship Gifted in 1987 by Mr and Mrs Anderson of Musselburgh in memory of Cathryn who died in July 1986. Now used for the S1 Individual Girls’ Championship......  The Girls’ U15 Championship A Ladies’ College Trophy. Known as the Ewing Athletics Trophy, it was presented in 1973. Now used for the S2 Individual Girls’ Championship......  The Glasgow Cup “e hurdles race is a fine test of all that is best in a boy or man.” Presented by the Glasgow Watsonian Club in 1924 for the 120 yard hurdles. It is a fine piece of workmanship and was first displayed in the windows of Messrs. R W Forsyth’s in Glasgow. “As we shall continue to watch with pride and pleasure the progress of the several competitors not only in the hurdles race, but in every effort made by present and former pupils to retain the grand traditions of George Watson’s College, of which we are all so proud.” e first winner was A J Bain (18 seconds).

2 3  The Intermediate Champion A Ladies’ College Athletics Trophy. Presented by J C Johnson in 1973. Now used for the S3–S4 Individual Girls’ Championship......  The Intermediate Champion A Ladies’ College award gifted in October 1960 by Elsa Hutchison and Shona Spence. Now used for the S5–S6 Individual Girls’ Championship......  The Intermediate Long Jump Cup For S3–S4 Boys. Introduced in 1957. (Best Performance: A Turnbull, 5.79m, 1998) ......  The 1919 Watsonian Club Cup e ‘1919 Club’ were all FPs who had left in 1919 and formed themselves into a branch of the Watsonian Club. ey accepted as members anyone who left between 1919 and 1924. e inauguration of the Cup was an interesting occasion as described in e Watsonian of July 1925.

Now used for the 400m S2 Boys’ Race. (Best Performance: J Tait, 56.0 seconds, 1974) ......  The Peter MacLean Cup for the 220 Yards Open “Peter MacLean was heart and soul devoted to Watson’s.” Peter ‘Paddy’ MacLean was born in Crieff, attended Morrison’s Academy and University. During WW1 he served with the artillery and then the Royal Flying Corps. After the War he finished his degree in French. From 1920–1932 he taught at Dalkeith High School and was then appointed to Watson’s. He died on 6 August 1958 at the age of 64 after a long illness. He was remembered for, “… his shrewd comment, his flashes of wit, his devastating sallies, his overwhelming vitality” and his broad-brimmed hat set at a jaunty angle. Above all his exuberance and love for life was infectious. Paddy in Action, 1953

2 3 “We will remember vividly how when firewatching during the war (WW2) he would keep us convulsed with his quips and mimicry and songs till far into the night, and then he would be up by six, singing like a lintie as he shaved.” He certainly enjoyed singing and would make up songs about the 1st XV as well as take part in Christmas Concerts and Burns’ Suppers. He taught French and specialised in the Romantic Poets. During WW2 he even taught soldiers French – after school – at Newbattle Abbey. He was Housemaster of Lauriston for 25 years and Sports Master (Director of Sport). One of his favourite phrases was, “Och, give the laddie a chance.” His son, Lauchlan, became a great stalwart of the Watsonian Club and a strong supporter of his old school. e trophy is now used for the 200m S5–S6 Boys’ Race. e best performance was in 1981 by G McKenzie in 22.7 seconds. Peter MacLean ......  The CC McLeod Silver Challenge Bowl or Loving Cup is massive trophy was gifted on the 22 February 1912 by Mr Charles Campbell McLeod of Pinner, President of the Watsonian Club, to be used for the Quarter- Mile Race at the Annual Games. On 13 May 1876, at the first sports held in connection with Watson’s, Charles MacLeod was the winner of the Mile, the Quarter- Mile, the Hurdles and other events such as the School Steeplechase, The Bowl photographed in 1912 Charles Campbell McLeod, July 1917 High and Long Jump. Indeed, it was he who had been instrumental in getting the sports started. A native of North Uist he left Watson’s in 1876 and eventually became a tea, mills and mines mogul in Calcutta. He retired in 1898 and was knighted in 1917. Mr MacLeod presented this magnificent trophy personally in May 1912 to the first winner, I N McCallum (56 and 1/5th seconds). See also ‘e Calcutta Cup.’ Now used as the trophy for the 400m S5–S6 Boys Race. e best performance was in 1982 by G M McKenzie in 50.8 seconds......  The McNeillage Trophy For the Girls’ S5–S6 Open 400 Metres Championship. Presented by A J McNeillage. Jennifer McNeillage won the Open Girls’ Championship in 1988 and 1989. e best performance was in 1978 by R Mackay in 61.4 seconds......  The Ovens Trophy For the Girls’ Open Long Jump Champion. Presented to the School in June 1985 by Allan Ovens of Edinburgh, “… as a reminder of daughter Margot.” e best performance of 5.19m was accomplished in 2000 by G Cooke.

4 5  The Jack Paterson Bowl for the Half-Mile Jack Paterson died on 15 August 1950. He was one of the most distinguished athletes of his generation. When at school he mostly played golf and never competed in the games. Only by accident did he discover that he could run … and fast. He joined the Watsonian Cross-Country Club and never looked back. In 1897, he gained his first national title (Scottish Junior Champion) and then had three successive wins in the Senior Championships, thus Jack Paterson, 1949 achieving a dual triumph. Jack also ran on the track. From 1897–1901, Jack gained no fewer than seven SAAA titles at distances ranging from 880 yards to 10 miles. He was invited to represent his country on five occasions. e apex of his career was reached in 1900 when he won the individual honour of the Scottish Cross-Country Union as well as the 880 yards, One Mile and 10 Miles titles of the SAAA. is performance of winning over such diverse distances in the same season has never been equalled in the history of and rarely in the chronicles of British athletic achievement. He bade farewell to athletics on 29 June 1901 by winning a mile event on a heavy track in 4 minutes and 25 seconds. Jack then went back to golf winning countless trophies and representing twice. In 1907, he defeated the US Amateur Champion, E M Byers. He also holed in one on four courses: Kilspindie, Musselburgh, Watsonian St Andrews and Gleneagles. Cross-Country Club e rest of his life was devoted to working hard, making money and (Scottish Champions), 1898/99 devoting himself to good causes such as being a Director of the Craigmillar Boys’ Club. He always encouraged youngsters such as the great John Ranken (see the Ranken Trophy). is Bowl was presented in 1949 when Jack was President of the Glasgow and West of Scotland Watsonian Club along with a complete set of 2ft 6in hurdles! ......  The ‘Presidents’ Cup For the S5–S6 Boys’ High Jump. Presented in 1961 by Dr Alexander MacGregor (Roy) Duff, President of the Watsonian Club 1960/61. Roy attended Watson’s between 1903 and 1913, then studied medicine at Edinburgh University. He was a gunner and lead driver in the OTC. In 1914, he joined the Royal Field Artillery, won the Military Cross and rose to command a battery. After the War he resumed his medical studies and played for the Watsonian XV. After graduation he took up a medical practice in Yorkshire, but soon gravitated homewards reaching Colinton in the 1930s. He soon took over the Medical Unit of the University OTC. During WW2 he served as a doctor in different areas of conflict and returned to a quieter life after 1945. An equable character with a quiet wit. e best performance so far has been 1.87m in 1997 by the late Stewart MacFarlane. Dr Alexander MacGregor (Roy) Duff

4 5  The Ranken Memorial Trophy for the 1500 Metres is was presented to the School on 25 October 1917 by Mr W Ranken of 11 Spence Street. It was designed and executed by Mr H S Gamley, ARSA with the aid of Mr Scott, the block maker. Originally it was to be competed for over the One Mile, but is now used for the 1,500 Metres. e best performance was achieved in 1977 by D Wilson in 4 minutes 10.9 seconds. e Trophy is a memorial to W Rankin’s two sons John and Ernest John Ranken Ranken who both were killed-in- action during WW1. John was with the 4th at Gallipoli and died of wounds on 29 June 1915. He had been a brilliant runner: Scottish Cross Country Champion, 1904 and 1905. His favourite event was the One Mile. Ernest died of wounds in while serving with the 7th KOSB. He was one of the first to join the Watson’s Cadet Corps and had played in the 1st XV, 1911–1914. Both had joined up with the 4th Royal Scots on 5 August 1914. Ernest Ranken e statuette represents John Ranken in the act of running for the One Mile (Open School Championship) which he was twice successful in winning. His stride was easy and graceful and the sculpture suggests not only this, but also determination and confidence. On the pedestal are plaques bearing the School coat of arms, records of the careers and medallion portraits of the two brothers. e statuette is in silver mounted on an ebony pedestal......  The Senior High Jump Presented by the Sixth Form of 1957/58......  The Senior Relay Race Presented by the Sixth Form of 1956/57......  The Trees Shield Used for the S1 Individual Boys’ Championship.

6 7  The Hugh Welsh Cup Hugh Welsh died aged 65 near Barrow on 25 May 1941. He was one of the great athletes of his day. His athletic career was meteoric and brief, but brilliant. In 1892, while still at school, he gained fame by winning both the One Mile and the School Steeplechase, the latter being an extremely popular event at the Annual Games. e following year he won six first prizes. “e Annual Sports may be termed the usual success. H Welsh in the School Competition proved himself to be the best all round man The 1894 Cross-Country Team. Hugh Welsh is on the extreme left in the front row of the day; and the Committee note he outdistanced all his competitors in an interscholastic race at Glasgow, on the 13 May and record with considerable pleasure that the Watson’s boy came galloping home first.” (Athletic Club Minutes, 1893) He was now set for the wider world. roughout the cross country season of 1894/95 Hugh formed part of the team which won the Club Championship and he led the Watsonian team to victory in the Team Championships held at Musselburgh. He is described in the Athletic Club Minutes as, “… one of the finest distance runners in the kingdom.” During 1895, however, Hugh devoted himself to acquiring the skills of an estate agent and had little success. e years 1897–1899 were the most eventful of all. He defended all his national titles in 1897 and created a new Scottish record in the One Mile. In 1898, he defeated the English AAA Champion (Tysoe) and gifted to e Watsonian Club the silver cup he won in that race. at year the pinnacle of success, however, was winning the AAA Championship for the Mile against stiff opposition. Also, within two weeks he created a new record in the Irish all-comers Mile. In 1899, Hugh defended both his Scottish and British titles. Hugh then retired, but served athletics in other ways eg as a SAAA Council member which he only gave up in 1902 when he took up an appointment in This solid silver Cup was won by Welsh in the race against Tysoe. It England. He was a natural athlete and a true sportsman. weighs 74 ounces and was made by e trophy is now used for the S5–S6 Boys 800m Race. e best Mr Aitchison of Leith Street. It was performance so far was in 1995 by A Brown in 2 minutes and 34 first competed for in Watson’s at the seconds. Games on Saturday, 12 July 1941......  The West of England Cup is fine silver quaich was presented in October 1961 by the President of the then defunct West of England and South Wales Watsonian Club for Field events such as the Shot Putt. (Best Performance: J D MacDonald, 14.28m, 1955)

6 7  The lain and Moray Wilson Cup for Sport is is in memory of Neil Wilson who came to Watson’s as a small boy from Hong Kong in 1925. In the Junior School he was soon noticed as a very bright youngster and awarded a scholarship to the Senior School. Always interested in sport and in the Cadets, he ended up as Pipe-Major of the Corps and later became the youngest member of the Royal Scottish Pipers Society. After graduating at Edinburgh University, Neil was appointed to the staff at Watson’s to teach in the Junior School in 1939, but he volunteered for service with the London Scottish returning in 1945. He was an excellent teacher and ran the Junior School rugby and cricket teams, and acted as a referee in school and senior matches. His sons were Iain and Moray. BADMINTON  The Boys’ Singles and the Girls’ Singles Badminton Championships ese fine two rose bowls were gifted by an anonymous donor in 1988......  The Craig Brown Cup Used for the Boys’ Doubles Championship in S1–S3. e earliest name is 1994......  The Forrester Trophy Mr and Mrs Forrester donated four new cups in 1995 to encourage badminton at S1–S3 level. eir children were Iain (S3) and Karen (S1). is Cup is used for S1–S3 Badminton Singles and was first won by Sarah McFadyen (S2). In the same year Sarah and Karen won the U13 Girls’ Doubles in the Scottish Schools’ tournament and the Lothian & Edinburgh Girls’ Doubles. Karen was invited to join the Scottish Schools’ training squad......  Badminton Misc e earliest trophy appears to be a Ladies’ College used for the Badminton Doubles Championships and with the earliest name dated at 1972. In 1990, the father of Douglas Veitch donated a trophy for Boys’ Badminton and two years later Bruce Alexander, a long-serving member of staff who had run the Badminton Club for several years, also donated a Cup for Boys’ Singles, S1–S3.

8 9 BRIDGE  The Brodie Hall Trophy for Bridge Pairs is was donated in June 1982 by Mrs Brodie Hall of Edinburgh who had been President of the Women Watsonians in 1949/50.

CHESS  The Hill Trophy is is the Chess Championship silver Cup which was gifted on May 1947 by Mrs Sharp, “a mother of a present pupil.” Why this should be called the ‘Hill’ trophy is unclear, but the Chess Club was very popular at that time. “is year looks like being a very successful one. e membership has doubled and there are over 50 entrants for the new “Hill” Chess Trophy.” (e Watsonian, December 1947) In 1948, the Club won all its matches in the Edinburgh Schools’ Chess League and the Junior Chess Championship of Scotland was brought to Watson’s by the Club Captain, Ian C Kirkwood who was the first member of the Club to win a national chess title.

CRICKET  The Kirk Mackie Trophy for Superiority at Cricket. July 1902 ......  The Kirk Mackie Trophy for Cricket, July 1906 One of the oldest Watson’s prizes founded by a legacy in July 1901 of 100 guineas. Kirk Mackie had been a Secretary and law agent of the Merchant Company, especially active in bringing about the change from Hospital to College. He left prizes in the Merchant Company schools for, “… superiority in athletic or gymnastic exercises.” Watson’s chose to have it as a prize for cricket, but Kirk Mackie was quite specific that the prize for the Ladies’ College would be for, “… gymnastic or outdoor exercises.” Today the ex-Ladies’ College prize is awarded at Prizegiving and the Cricket awards are made at the Trophies Assembly.

A Kirk Mackie (Picture courtesy of the Edinburgh Room, Edinburgh Central Library)

8 9 HOUSE TROPHIES  The Harry Jamieson Trophy Back in 1907 Harry Jamieson and Bertie Baker were returning along the beach at Joppa when they saw a waiting tramcar. On racing to catch it, Harry, who had never considered himself as a runner, easily outran Bertie – to the surprise of both – as the latter was the middle distance runner of Watson’s. Baker encouraged Harry to train and thus Harry began his running career after he left school. Very quickly he became a champion, winning the Watsonian Mile the following week at the Annual Games. e following year, 1908, he won the Edinburgh University Mile and the Scotland v Ireland Mile. Because of examinations he could not compete in the which were held in London, but when the victorious United States team came to Scotland – Harry beat them! He was the Scottish Mile Champion again in 1909. On each of these occasions, as encouraged by the great John Ranken (see e Ranken Trophy) Captain of the Watsonian Athletic Club, Harry Jamieson proudly wore the Watsonian colours. Harry emigrated to Canada in 1911 and settled in Toronto. He became President of the Watsonian Club there for the first time in 1912. e Club didn’t meet too much during WW1, but afterwards in the difficult years of the depression and WW2 it was Harry who rallied the Club together. He was President again and then Secretary for almost 40 years. e Toronto Club decided to honour him by presenting to the School an athletic trophy which would recognise his athletic feats and be named after him. After consultation with the Headmaster, Roger Young, it was decided to award a cup to the House which obtained the most points in the 1500 metre race. e cup was brought to the Club’s 62nd Annual Dinner where it was filled with champagne and passed around for all to drink to the continued good health and long life of Harry Jamieson. Later, (against whose father Harry had played tennis, and whose uncle, Hugh, had been an inspiration to him and another, Tommy, who had been his second string) visited Toronto and brought the trophy over to Watson’s in 1973. Now awarded to the House gaining the most points in the four Harry Jamieson on the right with the Trophy 1,500m events combined......  House Athletics A Ladies’ College trophy purchased from the Allan Bequest in October 1960. e first winner was Greyfriars......  Inter-House Badminton A Ladies’ College trophy donated in October 1960 by S6, 1953/54.

10 11  Inter-House Challenge Trophy In February 1924, Colonel Archibald Young, CBE, VD, on retiring from office as Vice Convener of the Ladies’ College, donated a shield (a highland targe) to be competed for by the four Houses. Col Young’s son, Archibald, attended Watson’s from 1899–1908 and established an excellent athletic record. He left school for business training in London where he captained a rugby team for the London Scottish. He joined the 4th Battalion Royal Scots in 1910, gained a commission in 1912 and was promoted to Lieutenant in 1913. Mobilised in 1914, he was sent to Gallipoli. He was killed-in-action at Gully Ravine, 28 June 1915, along with at least 13 other Watsonians serving alongside him in the same Battalion. (See final photograph in this booklet.) Colonel Archibald Young ......

 Inter-House Debating A Ladies’ College trophy donated in 1960 by the Literary and Debating Society......  Inter-House Golf: The India Cup e India Cup. Presented by the Watsonian Club of India, 1961......  Inter-House Hockey: Morrison Inches A Ladies’ College trophy (a magnificent silver rose bowl) gifted by J Morrison Inches, Vice-Convener of the school, 1943–45. e first winner engraved was Melville, (1946/47), but the trophy was donated in July 1948......  Inter-House Hockey: The Helen Flockhart Cup For S1 ‘e Helen Flockhart Cup’. Donated by Dot Brown in memory of her best friend Helen who died of cancer at a relatively young age. Helen was not a Watsonian, but played with Dot Brown for the East District and also women’s representative hockey squads. She was a top class goalie. Dot started at Watson’s in 1939, but, in the same year, she left for India and attended the New School, Darjeeling until she returned to Watson’s in 1945. Dot became a Deputy Prefect, but her main strength was on the games field. She also played in the orchestra and The Ladies’ College 1st XI Hockey Team, 1952. was described by her teachers as, Dot Brown is second from the right in the front row “cheerful and energetic.” Dot left Watson’s in 1952 for Dunfermline College of Education and then taught at North Berwick High School from 1955 to 1964 before returning to Watson’s where she remained until retiral in June 1995. Ladies’ College and then GWC House Hockey used to be run S1–S3 and S4–S6, but, as may be imagined, very few S1s ever used to get into the Junior team. Dot then decided to run a separate S1 House Hockey Competition and the Cup awarded was in Helen’s name.

10 11  Inter-House Lawn Tennis Championships Presented by the Watsonian Athletic Club, 1926......  Inter-House Life Saving a) A Ladies’ College trophy donated in October 1961 by Mr C J Cousland, a Vice-Convener of the school. b) A shield presented by the Watsonian Swimming and P T Club in 1988......  Inter-House March Hare Race is shield was presented in February 1958 by the Watsonian Club of Southern Rhodesia......  Inter-House Netball Presented by S6, 1967/68......  Inter-House Relay: The Miss Garrow Cup Presented in October 1960 to the Ladies’ College by Miss V Garrow for the Middle School Relay Race. Valerie Garrow taught Needlework at George Square from 1956–1959. Now used for the 4 x 100m Relay Race for girls in S3–S4. (Best Performance: Lauriston, 54.69 seconds, 1992) ......  Inter-House Rugby “It is with great pleasure that we record the presentation of a shield for the football competition among the Houses of the School by the London Watsonians. We can only hope that it will be the fortune of some of the donors to be present at one of these games. ey will then realise how keen is the competition, and how coveted is their trophy.” (e Watsonian, December 1908) e first winner in 1909 was Lauriston.

Lauriston House 1st XV

12 13  The Harry Armour Cup “Harry Armour Cup — On the initiative of Sir James H Stewart Lockhart the various Watsonian Clubs have been circularised, inviting their co-operation in instituting a Harry Armour Cup, to be awarded for Junior Football in the School. It will be recalled that Harry Armour was our first football captain, and this seems an entirely fitting way of enshrining his memory in the School. It is desired that the subscriptions should be sent to Sir James H Stewart Lockhart, KCMG, 6 Cresswell Gardens, London, SW5.” (e Watsonian, December 1929) “With a view to encouraging the playing of Rugby Football among our junior members of the School, the Harry Armour Cup is to be presented annually to the House which gains the most points through its Junior Fifteens in the Inter-House Rugby Competition.” (J H Stewart Lockhart, e Watsonian, April 1931) Harry Armour died on 20 November 1926 in a hunting accident with the Linlithgowshire and Stirlingshire Hunt. Apart from being the first School Rugby Captain he was also elected in 1894 as the first President of the newly formed Watsonian Club. In business life he was the General Manager of the Scottish Insurance Corporation Limited having worked his way up from the post of Assistant Secretary in 1877. He was a great sportsman and rider. Indeed, he was laid to rest dressed in hunting garb. e Cup was designed by Harry’s daughter Hazel Armour and cost £50, an enormous amount in those days......  Inter-House Shooting In late 1935 a change was made in the internal organisation of the Watson’s OTC (Cadets). e platoons were reorganised into four, one representing each House. “Later in the session there will be an inter-platoon competition for a Cup presented by last year’s NCO’s. We may add that whatever marks are awarded in this competition will be taken into account for the House Championship.” (e Watsonian, December 1935) Since the demise of the Cadets in 1970 other school organisations have made use of their trophies, notably the Pipes and Drums who use the huge and magnificent silver 1913 Shooting Shield as the top award in the Senior Piping Contest.

12 13  Inter-House Swimming: The Cameron Lees Shield “e presentation of the House Football Shield by the London Watsonian Club has already been fruitful. On their return from the vacation the swimming fraternity was agreeably surprised to find that a trophy had been presented for competition by Mr Lees. It will henceforth be known as the Lees Shield and will lie side by side with the Football Shield in the Chapel... e Swimming Club is fortunate to have such a loyal and enthusiastic friend as Mr Lees. e ‘Lees’ Trophy has been presented by him in memory of his brother, Mr J Cameron Lees. It is a fine specimen of the silversmith’s art, and takes the form of a shield mounted on oak. e ornamentation of the shield consists of a fine engraving of the College buildings, and the College Crest picked out in coloured enamel. e trophy is given for Inter-House Competition, and all the competitions of the Swimming Club, including the Annual Gala, count for the trophy. e House showing the best record of the year becomes the holder of the trophy.” (e Watsonian, December 1909) e Swimming Club had been dormant for two seasons due to the closure of the privately owned Warrender Baths. As the School had no swimming pool of its own Warrender was used. Indeed, it was said at the time that the majority of Warrender swimmers were Watsonians. In 1909, the baths reopened, but this time as a Council owned venture (Municipal Socialism). is led to a huge revival in the Watson’s Swimming Club which the Lees Trophy helped to promote. e Shield is now used for the Boys’ House Championship......  The Cousland Cup In 1933 a large number of girls started practising swimming at the new GWC baths in Colinton Road. “In connection with this we are indebted to our Vice-Convener, Mr Cousland, in addition to his many former kindnesses, has presented the school with a handsome silver cup for inter-house competition. George Square has always been famous for its swimmers, and the possession of this splendid trophy should do much to encourage a sport which is peculiarly suitable for girls and which is pre-eminent in its possibilities for service to others. It is pleasant to report that already a number of girls have passed various tests of the Royal Life-saving Society.” (e George Square Chronicle, July 1933) Mr Cousland retired in 1933 after two years as Vice-Convener of the Ladies’ College. e Cup is now used for the Girls’ House Championship......  Inter-House Volleyball A Ladies’ College Trophy presented by S6, 1974/75......  The Junior Houses Challenge Trophy A Ladies’ College Trophy donated in 1927......  Top House A trophy for the top House in all competitions. Donated in October 1960 by S6, 1959/60.

14 15  House Championships is silver cup, donated by FPs in October 1920, commemorates the first Headmaster of the Ladies’ College (1871–1902). Alexander omson. He was born on 15 October 1831 in Cupar, and trained as a teacher in Edinburgh. He had taught at Dr Guthrie’s Ragged School and several small private schools before opening his own establishment in 1864 in Melville House, George Square. In 1871, the Merchant Company approached him to run its school for young ladies. Alexander Thomson He strove to educate by principle, by virtue and by moral worth and he was determined to lead by example, never failing to consult his staff, or seek measures that would unify the school community. Alexander omson was a Christian gentleman who knew all his pupils by name and would spend time just chatting to them. He was always interested in human beings rather than just as pupils at his school. Perhaps his greatest legacy was the George Square Former Pupils’ Club which was instituted at his jubilee celebrations in 1897. Alexander omson died in the spring of 1916 as a result of a road accident. RUGBY  The Eric Milroy Trophy Eric Milroy was born in 1887 and entered Watson’s in 1895. He was a remarkable pupil in that he was highly talented both in the classroom and on the sports field. He played in the lst XV 1905/06, was a Sergeant in the Cadet Corps and an impressive debater in the Literary Society. He won an open bursary at Edinburgh University in 1906 and graduated with an Honours Degree in Mathematics after which he embarked upon a The 1st XI, 1904. Eric is at the back on the extreme left. This is the earliest known photograph of him at Watson’s career as an accountant. He was a brilliant member of the Watsonian XV from 1906–1914 and played for Scotland in virtually every International Match from 1910–1914. Indeed, he Captained his country in the last two matches before the Great War. He also toured with the British Team in South Africa in 1910. In 1914, he joined the Watsonian Training Corps and then the ‘Dandy Ninth’ (9th Royal Scots) called that because it was the only battalion of the Regiment which wore the kilt. He won speedy promotion and was gazetted as 2nd Lieutenant to the 11th . In , he was promoted to Lieutenant and was attached to the 8th Battalion Black Watch as Lewis Gun Officer. He crossed to France in 1915 and was engaged in severe fighting in the Ypres Salient. During the he was posted missing at Delville (Devils) Wood on 18 July 1916 and later presumed dead. His name is inscribed on the massive Memorial to the Missing at iepval Wood. His mother presented this trophy to the School for ‘Drop and Place Kicking’, her son’s speciality. Eric in 1916

14 15 SAILING  Middle School Trophy GWC Sailing Club Trophy, presented c. 1982.

SWIMMING  The William Gibson Cup “Once again a generous Former Pupil has come forward with an offer to provide a swimming trophy to be known as the William Gibson Cup. In presenting this cup to the School, Mr W Laird Gibson is performing a pious duty in commemorating his father, who was one of the original old Hospital boys in 1870. e cup will be awarded annually to the Junior Swimming Champion. Our grateful thanks go to the donor for this timely encouraging of our swimming.” (e Watsonian, November 1945)

M A P McHaffie, winner of the Gibson W Laird Gibson’s father Robert Cup in May 1949 photographed c. 1870 ......  The Hamilton Challenge Shield Mentioned in July 1905, but could be earlier. Open Championship. Presented by G F Hamilton. In 1963 Mr W S Martin of Bonnyrigg paid for the re-inscribing of the names on the Shield and the addition of new plaques......  Parents’ Liaison Quaich Watson’s U14 Boys’ Swimming Champion. Presented by S1/S2 Parents’ Liaison group......  The Rudkin Trophy Presented in March 1987 by Mr and Mrs Rudkin, Edinburgh parents of Louise, Judith and Murray. For U16 Girls’ Swimming Champion......  Rutherford Trophy is trophy was presented in 1949 by James Rutherford, Past President of the Border Watsonian Club. “e Swimming Trophy will be awarded to the Intermediate Champion and it is a happy coincidence that the first name to be engraved upon it shall be that of Mr Rutherford’s son, omas E Rutherford who won the Intermediate Championship in 1945.” (e Watsonian, November 1949) ......  Swimming Champion Ladies’ College Shield, presented c. 1964.

16 17 TENNIS  The Ian Hamilton Inches Trophy is unique and truly magnificent silver trophy was presented to Watson’s in February 1967 by Mr Ian Inches, a former Assistant and Vice Convener. e trophy was hand-crafted in the workshops of Messrs. Hamilton and Inches, George Street, Edinburgh. It is competed for annually in the mixed doubles tennis competition. e winning pair would share the trophy, ie six months each.

16 17  The Jarvis Trophy Used for Senior Girls’ Doubles. Earliest 1995.

In the Education Board Minutes of 13 July 1961 it was intimated that that there had been criticism “for some time” that trophies were not handed over. e Headmaster, Roger Young, advised that all trophies should be taken home,” except valuable and irreplaceable” ones. “I presented a Cup for the winner of the Championship and I assumed that the winner would be able to have the Cup on his mantelpiece for a year, but when I saw it being presented at a Prizegiving, the winner had to hand the Cup back to the Janitor after holding it for perhaps thirty seconds. I suppose that still happens. I wish I had stipulated that the winner was to be allowed to hold on to the Cup for a year.” (Jimmie Allan to Frank Gerstenberg, 30 March 1995)

The Inter-House Challenge Trophy

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PRIZEGIVING Presented During the Prizegiving Assembly FOREWORD This is not a history of prizes and awards, or even an account of every one issued today. I have attempted to cover most which have been awarded recently, but would welcome any further information especially regarding the ‘missing’ ones. This Trophies Assembly would not have been possible without the generosity of people associated with Watson’s over the years. As we progress through the twenty-first century, we continue to seek donors who can help to ensure that a Watson’s education is of the highest standard and is accessible to pupils irrespective of financial background. For more information on supporting the important work of the George Watson’s Family Foundation, please contact the Development Office.

Mr Les Howie, GWC History Department, 2007 CONTENTS The Adair Trophy for Single Wicket Competition...... 1 The Robin Adair Prize and Trophy for the Young Musician of the Year...... 1 The Adams Prize for Geography...... 1 The Dr Alison Prizes in Mathematics and Computing Studies...... 1 The Baxendine Prize for ...... 1 The Mary Beattie Prize for the Conductor of the House Choir...... 2 The Frances Bell Memorial Prize for Advanced Graphic Communication...... 2 The Stanley Bennet Prize for Service to the School...... 2 The Mona Brebner Prize for Service and Merit awarded to. the Deputy Head Girl...... 2 The William Gordon ‘Seggie’ Brown Memorial Medal and University Bursary...... 3 The Bruce Trophy for Services to the Pipe Band...... 3 The ‘1932 Buildings’ Prizes...... 3 The Graham Burge Trophy for Service to School Scouts...... 4 The George Byres Cup for Gymnastics...... 4 The John Campbell Memorial Prize in Modern Languages...... 4 The Campbell and Arnott Cup for Graphic Communication...... 4 The Carmichael Cup for Tennis...... 5 The William Lowe Carrie English Literature Prize...... 5 The Alastair Clark Prize for North American History...... 5 The ColArt Prize...... 6 The Ian Cook Award for Photography...... 6 The WR Cooper Memorial Prize in History...... 6 A Watsonian Club Prize for Girls’ Cricket...... 6 The John Craigie Cunningham Memorial Prize in History...... 6 The Crighton Salver for the Best Drummer...... 6 The Crighton Salver for the Best Piper...... 6 The Neil Darker Shooting Prize and Trophy...... 7 The Janet Darling Prize in Mathematics...... 7 The Kingsley Darling Prize for Religious Studies...... 7 The Helen Doig Prize for Scottish Literature and History...... 7 The Drama Trophy for a Outstanding Contribution to Drama...... 7 The Dolphin Sailing Trophy...... 7 The Allan and Kenneth Douglas Prize for Spanish...... 8 The Robert Douglas S6 Prize in Classical Greek...... 8 The John Dudgeon Prize for Geography...... 8 The Ex Corde Prize for Vocal Duets...... 8 The Fencing Trophy...... 8 The Junior Fencing Trophy...... 8 The Ford Prize for Services to Athletics...... 8 The Fortune Skin Trophy...... 9 The Douglas A Foulis Prize for Instrumental Music...... 9 The Gibson Memorial Prize for Service and Merit awarded to the Deputy Head Boy...... 9 The Glass Prizes in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics...... 10 The Nancy Gordon Prize in Physics...... 10 The Gordon Prize in Technological Studies...... 10 The Graham Trophy for Girls’ Cricket for the Most Improved Player...... 10 The Douglas Grant Prize for Services to Swimming...... 10 The Ian Grant Memorial Prize for Creative Writing...... 10 The Emma Gray Prize for Russian Studies...... 10 The John Gray Memorial Prize in Art...... 11 The Kenneth Green Prizes in History, Economics and Modern Studies...... 11 The Ian Gunn Prize for the Best Contribution to The Watsonian...... 11 The Brodie Hall Golf Trophy...... 11 The Mrs Jessie L Hamilton Bursary and Prize...... 11 The Roger Hamilton Single Wicket Competition Trophy...... 11 The Harkins Quaich for Services to Fencing...... 11 The Wood Hawks Tennis Trophy...... 12 The Henderson Prizes for Spoken German and French...... 12 The Phyllis Hodges Prize for Excellence in Art and Design...... 12 The Johnnny Horne Prizes in Biology, Chemistry, Electronics and Physics...... 13 The House Championship Trophy ...... 13 The Watson Hutton Prize for Oral French...... 13 The Murray Ferguson Johnnston Shield for Captain of the 1st XI...... 13 The Keay Sailing Trophy...... 13 The Dudley Langdon Prize for Instrumental Music...... 13 The Cameron Lees Prize for Scholarship and Games...... 14 The Fei-Fein Lin Prize for Chinese...... 14 The Yang-Ruin Prize for Chinese...... 14 The Liberton Prizes for Service to Games...... 14 The Literary Club Prize for Debating...... 14 The Lizars Prize for French...... 14 The Logan Trophy for Rowing...... 14 The London Watsonian Club Prize for Verse Speaking...... 14 The London Watsonian Club Rowing Trophy...... 14 The Lorimer Sixth Form Prize in Spanish...... 14 The James Loutit Memorial Prize in Mathematics...... 15 The Jane Low Prizes...... 15 The William James Lowe Memorial Prize in Chemistry...... 15 The Leonard R Lyall Prize in Technological Studies...... 15 The Stewart MacFarlane Memorial Trophy for Service to Athletics...... 15 The Gordon McHaffie Sailing Trophy...... 16 The Mackay Cup for Swimming...... 16 The Kirk Mackie Prize for Gymnastics...... 16 The Donald MacLaren Prizes in Italia and Latin...... 16 The Emma MacLaren Memorial Prize for Achievement...... 17 The Dr Neil MacLeod Prize for a Project in Mathematics (S2)...... 17 The Betty MacPherson Prize for Service to the Ochestra...... 17 The Maitland Prizes for Spoken French and German...... 17 The Charles Malcolm Memorial Prize in History...... 18 The Henry Meikle Prize in Scottish History...... 18 The Melrose Prizes...... 18 The Robert Burnett Merson Prize for Art ...... 18 The Moonie Memorial Singing Prize and Trophy...... 18 The Hamish and Ian Munro Prizes ...... 19 The Thow Munro Prize...... 19 The Murray Dance Prize...... 19 The William Murray Prize in Modern Studies...... 19 The William Murray Prize in Modern Languages...... 19 The J Margaret Naughton Prize for Services to the School...... 20 The May Nicol Prize for Services to the School...... 20 The James MacLeod Nicol Trophy for Services to Hockey...... 20 The Dorothy Nicolson Prize for Service and Merit Awarded to the Head Girl...... 20 The Norrie Prize for Latin...... 20 The Ogilvie Prize in Classical Greek...... 21 The Ogilvie Sixth Form Prize in Latin...... 21 The Ramsay Paterson Prizes in History...... 21 The Robert Paterson Prize for a Pencil Portrait...... 21 The Polly Ramsay Prizes for Home Economics...... 21 The Victor Pechar Cup for Middle School Young Musician of the Year...... 21 The Reid Prize for Spoken French...... 21 The Alice Robertson Prizes...... 22 The Blair Robertson Prize in Computing Studies...... 22 The Elsie Robertson Memorial Prize in Art...... 22 The Elsie Robertson Memorial Prize for Dux of the Third Form...... 22 The Elsie Robertson Memorial Prize for Scholarship and Games...... 22 The George Robertson Prizes: For Classical Studies, Instrumental Music and Singing...... 22 The Isabel Robertson Prizes for School Exchanges...... 22 The Rosemary Cup for Intermediate Rowing...... 23 The William Baird Ross Award in Music...... 23 The Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation Prize for Mathematics and Physics...... 23 The Anna Semeonova Prize for Spoke Russian...... 23 The Shanno Prize for French Literature...... 23 The Andrew Simpson Memorial Trophy for Single Wicket Competition...... 23 The Harold Skelton Prizes (German and Russian)...... 24 The Helen Smalley Prize for S3 Projects...... 24 The Sir Malcolm Smith Prize for the Dux of the Third Form...... 24 The Campbell Spiers Trophy for Services to Curling...... 24 The George Watson’s Prize for Sporting Excellence...... 24 The Squash Rackets Championship Cup...... 24 The Stewart Sixth Form Prize in Biology...... 24 The William and Anne Sturrock Memorial Prize...... 24 The Sweetman Trophy for Boys’ House Hockey...... 25 The Titania Trophy...... 25 The Kathryn Taylor Prize in Biology...... 25 The U Myint Thin Prize for Service to Internationalism...... 25 The Thornton Walker Prizes for Latin...... 26 The Torrance Golf Cup...... 26 The Welsh Kettle for Curling...... 26 The John L White Prize for General Knowledge...... 27 The James Whitton Prizes for Project Work o Contemporary Britain...... 27 The Wright Prize for Scholastic Excellence...... 27 The Yorkshire Watsonian Club Prize in Mathematics...... 27 The Ernst and Young Prize for Business Management...... 27 EPILOGUE...... 28 “I am interested to read the names of the Donors of the various prizes, and I have often wondered if there is a record of the Donors, and something about them A good many years ago I thought of offering to prepare a record of Donors of Prizes, but I never did anything about it and I couldn’t tackle it now. In any case it may all have been done.” (Jimmie Allan to Principal Frank Gerstenberg, 30 March, 1995) ......  The Adair Trophy for Single Wicket Competition Presented by Brian Adair in the mid-1990s. It is the annual prize for the Girls’ Single Wicket winner. Brian Adair was President of the Watsonian Club, 1987/88. He attended Watson’s from 1940–1953, played cricket for the 1st XI as well as squash and tennis. He qualified as a Chartered Surveyor in 1960, joined Ryden and Partners in that year and became a Senior Partner in 1974. He Captained the Watsonian Cricket Club for many years and was President and Chairman of the Scottish Cricket Union in 1983. Brian has also been President, Captain, Secretary and Treasurer of the Watsonian Squash Club. In addition, he has been Chairman of the Royal Scots Club Trustees. He also sent his children (Robin and Carolyn) to Watson’s! ......  The Robin Adair Prize and Trophy for the Young Musician of the Year James Robert (Robin) Adair left Watson’s in 1946 and was an amateur musician who led the orchestra at Watson’s for many years. He died suddenly at the Royal Infirmary on 31 March 1993. His brother Brian suggested the award which was presented in 1994 or 1995......  The Adams Prize for Geography This prize was instituted in 1976 and was originally called The Mrs Adams Prize for Field Studies......  The Dr Alison Prizes in Mathematics and Computing Studies In 1953, the daughter of the former Head of Watson’s, Dr Alison (1898– 1926), wanted to give £100 to endow a prize to his memory. The then Head told her that there were too many prizes and advised purchasing a piece of furniture for the Prefects’ Room. Unfortunately, when she saw the finished table in 1957 she didn’t like it and insisted the money be used for a prize in S5. John Alison had been Head of Mathematics at Watson’s......  The Baxendine Prize for Classics Instituted in May 1955 by Mrs Fletcher of Corbiehill Grove in memory of her two brothers – both FPs – who died in the Great War. Andrew (Left) Andrew Richard Baxendine was the younger son of Mr A Baxendine, a and John (below) famous Edinburgh bookseller. He attended GWC from 1903–1910 and Baxendine then joined his father’s business. When war broke out he joined the 3rd Royal Scots and was eventually sent to Salonika where he served for two and a half years. He died of pneumonia just a few days before sailing for home. His older brother, John Young Baxendine, attended GWC from 1899– 1907 and then entered his father’s business. In 1914, he was gazetted to the Border Regiment and was sent to Gallipoli. He was wounded and then served in Egypt and France. John was killed on the first day of the Battle of the Somme (1 July 1916) at Beaumont Hamel (Newfoundland Park) and is buried within a hundred yards of where he was hit. GWC Battlefields Tours always visited his grave and planted heather on it.

1  The Mary Beattie Prize for the Conductor of the House Choir A Ladies’ College prize donated on 30 November 1973 by Mrs Mary E D Moffatt.

......  The Frances Bell Memorial Prize for Advanced Graphic Communication Donated from a collection taken for Frances Bell, a much respected teacher of Technical subjects, who died in a tragic accident at home. The first award was made in 2001.

......  The Stanley Bennet Prize for Service to the School Stanley Bennet had been a former Master of the Merchant Company and GWC Vice-Convener as well as a GWC benefactor. In 1952, for example, he gifted a glass-cased meter to the Physics Department and, in 1955, an ‘Elliott’ wall clock for the new Library. In 1956, he gave an, “engraved bronze plaque to commemorate the opening of the School in 1932.” The latter was affixed to the Main Entrance in time for Founder’s Day. In 1993, two prizes were donated by D Bennet of Spean Bridge......  The Mona Brebner Prize for Service and Merit awarded to the Deputy Head Girl A Ladies’ College prize gifted by the Women Watsonians Club and first awarded in Session 1933/34. Miss Mona Brebner was a long-serving Secretary of the Ladies’ College who died in a road accident on 3 March 1933. “Her official position was that of School Secretary; her actual position was that of unfailing helper to everyone in difficulties, from the tiny child who had forgotten her lunch penny to the harassed Form Mistress who had forgotten to fill up a schedule…. She was never tired, never impatient, never out of temper.” (The George Square Chronicle, December 1933) Mona was a staunch supporter of the Women Watsonians’ Club, a keen gardener and walker, especially in the Highlands. A memorial fund collected sufficient to provide a holiday for a pupil whose parents had fallen on hard times as well as the above prize. It was initially awarded to the Senior Prefect for “merit and service to the school” until the Dorothy Nicolson Prize was established. “For nearly eight years of happy work I gladly record my debt to Miss Brebner. Many may have known her longer; none can have owed her more. I like to remember her, seated at her desk in the summer term, in a room flooded with sunshine, herself a centre of radiant good will.” (Headmistress, Catherine Robertson)

2  The William Gordon ‘Seggie’ Brown Memorial Medal and University Bursary Seggie was born in 1895 and attended Watson’s from 1901 to 1914. He had outstanding ability, especially in Mathematics. He was a Col-Sergeant in the Cadets, a Prefect and elected Treasurer of the Literary Club. In 1914, instead of going to university, Seggie opted to join the Royal Scots and was wounded at Gallipoli. Although not fully recovered Seggie then volunteered for the Royal Naval Division (which fought on land). It fought alongside the 51st Highland Division in the final phase of the Battle of the Somme – the attack on Beaumont Hamel. Seggie was killed on 13 October 1916 at the age of 21. Seggie had kept his Mathematical studies going despite the war, contributing important articles to learned magazines. It was said that only two other undergraduates had achieved so much: Clerk-Maxwell and Kelvin. Papers found after his death proved that Seggie had arrived independently at the same conclusions regarding Relativity as Albert Einstein......  The Bruce Trophy for Services to the Pipe Band Norman Bruce was born on Christmas Day 1914 and left Watson’s in 1932. Norman was a gifted athlete and played for the championship-winning Watsonian rugby team of 1934/35. He played for Edinburgh, captained the Co- optimists and was unfortunate not to be capped for his country. However, Norman was also an excellent footballer who played for Edinburgh City before signing for Hearts. In the 1930s, this was revolutionary. In 1939, Norman joined the Lothians and Borders Horse which was equipped with Sherman tanks. He fought in North Africa and in Italy, including Monte Cassino. He was promoted to Major (eventually Lieut-Col.) and was mentioned in dispatches. After the war Norman became a farmer near Doune in Perthshire, but moved to Carlops in 1971. From there He became actively involved with his old school largely through the Watsonian Club, but increasingly because of his determination to revive and promote the Pipe Band. Norman raised thousands of pounds for the band. His energy and enthusiasm were simply boundless. He even created the Watsonian tartan and relentlessly pursued the idea until it became a reality. Ill-health forced Norman to step down after his term as vice-president of the Watsonian Club otherwise he would have become President. Norman died in 1993 and was one of the many Watsonians of whom the Watson’s community can be proud. The Trophy was initiated in Session 1985/86......  The ‘1932 Buildings’ Prizes “In connection with the practical subjects of Craft, Engineering Drawing and Applied Mathematics, ‘The 1932 Buildings Memorial Prizes’ have been founded by the Architect, Surveyor and Contractors for the New School. They desire in this way to associate themselves with the living School as well as with the fabric which their labour created.” (The Watsonian, December 1933, p.8) The Architects were James B Dunn, Herbert Dunn and George Martin. The main Contractors were James Miller & Sons, Ltd, for the Senior School and Colin Macandrew for the Junior School. The prizes were funded in July 1933.

3  The Graham Burge Trophy for Service to School Scouts Awarded within the School Scout Group to a leader or instructor below the age of 18 in recognition of his services to the Group. It was first awarded at Prizegiving in 1997 (to Keith McLaren), but had been awarded since December 1944. Lieutenant Reginald Graham Burge, RE, was born on 10 November 1919, attended Watson’s from 1925–1936 and was the Leader of the Patrol which won the Inter-Patrol Competition, 1935–1936. He was also the Leader of the team which won the County Flag and District Shield. In May 1943, Graham was killed-in-action in North Africa while detecting and clearing land-mines ahead of the advancing army. His parents presented this trophy and it was first seen on St Andrew’s Day 1943. Its first recipients were joint winners T Scott Brotherston and Harold W Lyon.

......  The George Byres Cup for Gymnastics George Moir Byres was Secretary of the Watsonian Club, 1928–1936 during which time the Athletic Club joined the Watsonian Club. George assumed huge responsibilities as a result of this merger and it is largely due to his efforts that it was a success. When he took office the combined membership was only 940. By 1936, it had increased to 3,200. The number of branch clubs was 27 in 1928 and had risen to 34 by 1936. Also, the number of sections had increased from six to nine. George was energetic, thorough and enthusiastic. He later became President of the Watsonian Club and, in 1949, he presented this Cup to the School.

......  The John Campbell Memorial Prize in Modern Languages Presented by Judy Granger who works in Learning Support in memory of her father. It is aimed at encouraging pupils in S2 to study modern languages. John Campbell attended Hutchesons in Glasgow and regretted not having the opportunity to learn a language at school. He was insistent that effort and achievement should be rewarded and not just excellence. His grandchildren (Euan and Neil) both attended Watson’s. The prize was initiated in June 2001......  The Campbell and Arnott Cup for Graphic Communication Campbell and Arnott were the architects of the new Technology Building which was opened in 1996. The Cup was awarded in the same year to the pupil with the best Higher Graphics folio.

4

 The Carmichael Cup for Tennis This is a Ladies’ College prize. Vera Wood Hawks was born in 1900 and attended George Square between 1905 and 1918. She trained as a secretary before marrying, in April 1926, Jimmy Carmichael, a Scottish rugby internationalist, and before embarking upon a career in public life. Her interests were in politics, the Church, sport and charity work. She was Past President of the Women Watsonians’ Club and was awarded the OBE in 1956 for Political Services to Scotland. She died on 4 May 1990. Her brothers Aubrey and Victor also attended Watson’s (see under Wood Hawks Tennis Trophy). Jimmy Carmichael, also born in 1900, was a Scottish rugby internationalist with three caps awarded in 1921, and a golfer. In 1983 he became the Club’s oldest surviving rugby internationalist. He captained Watsonians 1925-26 and when he died on 4 January 1990 he still held the record as the Club’s top try scorer (in 2007 the record still stands). He worked in the family egg merchant business and was Vice Convener of the Ladies’ College in the 1950s, shortly before the presentation of the trophy. Jimmy’s father Duncan Carmichael (President of the Watson’s College Athletic Club, 1924/25) was actively involved with its amalgamation with the Watsonian Club in 1928 and his uncle Jasper captained the Rugby Club in 1887/88. Jimmy and Vera’s family are all also involved with Watsonians: Dennis Carmichael was appointed President for 1982/83 and has had an administrative involvement with the President of the Scottish , having been Chairman of the (British) LTA in 1978, and was awarded the OBE for services to sport. Jasper Carmichael worked in the family business before setting up his own. He played rugby and squash for Watsonians, as well as being a county tennis player, and was President of the Football Club. His four children all attended Watson’s. Brenda Carmichael was a record breaking Scottish Squash Internationalist over a 21-year period, at one time appearing in the Guinness Book of Records as the most capped player in Britain, and was awarded the MBE. She represented Watsonians at hockey as well as squash and was a county tennis player......  The William Lowe Carrie English Literature Prize William Carrie was a brilliant teacher and cultured human being. He taught in Watson’s for twenty- five years and a further ten in the Edinburgh Provincial Training College. In Watson’s he was appointed Head of English on the Classical side and elected President of the Athletic Club (1895–97). When Dr Ogilvie retired in 1898, William was chosen to be Headmaster. Unfortunately, he found the job far too stressful and resigned in 1904. William died on 17 October 1916, aged sixty- two. One hundred and sixty one friends subscribed for a magnificent gravestone in Newington Cemetery and there was enough of a surplus to fund this prize from 1919.

......  The Alastair Clark Prize for North American History Alastair Clark was a driving force within the Watsonian Club of North America. He had been President, Secretary and Treasurer (and sometimes all three at once). Alastair was also keen to involve the Club with the annual Hamilton Scholar from Watson’s. On many occasions Alastair and his wife Dorothy were hosts for the scholars on their trips to New York. The Club initiated two prizes in March 1992 to recognise Alastair’s special contribution. It is for the pupils, “… who write the best essays on North American History.” The essays are then sent across for Club members to enjoy.

5  The ColArt Prize This prize was first presented in 2005. It allows art media items (eg paints, brushes, pastels, etc) to be awarded which are often worth more than many individual monetary prizes......  The Ian Cook Award for Photography A large sum of money was gifted in November 1982 for annual photographic prizes in the Upper and Middle Schools by Mrs E Cook of Inverness in memory of her husband Dr Ian Cook who had been Secretary of the Highland Watsonian Club. There are five prizes......  The W R Cooper Memorial Prize in History William Richard Cooper (usually known as ‘Baldy Cooper’) devoted his entire teaching career to Watson’s. He began here in 1910 and retired in 1948. During that time he contributed enormously to the Cadets. William had been an Army Major in World War 1 and mentioned in despatches. In the next war he was a Home Guard Commander. He was also an Elder of the Kirk, a Founder Member of the Historical Association, Sports Master (1925–1929), member of the Watsonian Council and ran a memorable Boarding House for pupils at Castlegate, Abbotsford Park. His massive success in promoting both rugby and cricket resulted in the post of Sports Master (now Director of Sport) being made permanent. However, William’s most important contribution was when he was created Head of History in 1910, a pioneer post which separated History from English and one which led the way to independent History Departments throughout Scotland. It is to be regretted that this proud Watson’s record was broken recently when History was forcibly joined with Modern Studies. William Cooper died in 1954 and this prize was instituted in October 1962 by his widow......  A Watsonian Club Prize for Girls’ Cricket This prize is awarded to the member of the Girls’ Cricket Club who, throughout the season, gives themost outstanding service both off and on the field. This prize is supported by Miss E Smith......  The John Craigie Cunningham Memorial Prize in History John Craigie Cunningham was born in 1885 and attended Watson’s between 1895 and 1901. He was a Classical Medallist, was awarded a GWC Higher Bursary and gained First Place in the 1901 Open Bursary Competition at Edinburgh University. He gained an MA Honours Degree in Classics and won an open scholarship to Balliol, Oxford which he did not take up due to bad health. John emigrated to Canada and, in 1916, enlisted in a Canadian Regiment. On 26 August 1918, he was killed-in-action during the capture of Monchy.

......  The Crighton Salver for the Best Drummer  The Crighton Salver for the Best Piper Instituted in May 1985 when serious efforts were being made by a group of parents and former pupils to revive the Pipe Band. These prizes were donated by Mr Douglas Crighton of Edinburgh who had been a pupil at Watson’s from 1945–1950.

6  The Neil Darker Shooting Prize and Trophy Neil Campbell Darker was the son of a tea planter in Assam and born in 1898. In 1909, he entered Watson’s and soon became an active member of the Cadets (rising to L/Cpl) and a keen rugby player, playing as a full back from 1914–1916. In March 1916, he entered Sandhurst and in October of that year was gazetted to the Royal Scots. In the Spring of 1917 he was sent to France. On 3 May 1917, he was posted as missing near Monchy and later confirmed as killed-in-action. His mother gifted this award in March 1920 to the best marksman in the Cadet Corps. It is now one of the most coveted prizes in the Rifle Club and is, of course, competed for by both men and women. Incidentally, in November 1941, a silver cigarette case was added to the prize, but only if it had been bought from John Bartleman’s shop in St Andrew Square! ......  The Janet Darling Prize in Mathematics Dr Janet Darling died in June 1955 at the age of twenty-nine in Kingston, . She had been working in the Paediatric Department of Queen’s University and Kingston General Hospital. Her George Square school and university friends instigated this award. It began in October 1957 as an award for Mathematics and Science.

......  The Kingsley Darling Prize for Religious Studies This was awarded in both George Square and Colinton Road from 1932/33 onwards as a ‘Scripture’ prize. Dr Alex Darling, former Master of the Merchant Company, instituted the prize in memory of his son, Captain J W Kingsley Darling, who fell in the Great War on 11 August 1918. An interesting feature of the award is that the candidate must be able to repeat the 13th Chapter of 1st Corinthians......  The Helen Doig Prize for Scottish Literature and History Miss Helen Doig of West Mayfield had been a GWLC pupil from 1876 to 1882. She died on 14 November 1958 and bequeathed a sizeable sum for, “… an annual prize on essays, open for competition by the pupils of the Merchant Company schools on the subject of Wallace or Bruce or Burns or Scott.” After some discussion regarding the practicalities of administering such a prize it was decided to institute a separate prize in each school......  The Drama Trophy for an Outstanding Contribution to Drama Presented anonymously in 2004. Won by Fiona Robertson (2004), Richard Templeton (2005) and Ruairidh Hastie (2006). See the front cover of this booklet......  The Dolphin Sailing Trophy A Ladies’ College award. This trophy was designed and made by Dr R S Sanderson around 1970. His daughter, Julia Bevan (née Sanderson), was Captain of the Sailing Club and GWLC Dux in 1972. It was first awarded in July 1971. Julia studied physics at University and then embarked upon a career in IT. She joined ICL as a programmer and is now a Director with leading professional services firm Deloitte. She currently helps organisations to bring about business transformations through the implementation of enterprise-wide systems. Julia is married, with two grown-up stepchildren and lives inWarwickshire.

7  The Allan and Kenneth Douglas Prize for Spanish Alan Douglas, Director of Falcon Corporation, Ltd donated two prizes in 1990. The first was the Douglas Travel Grant for excellence in Spanish in S6. The second was the Prize for Spanish in S5......  The Robert Douglas S6 Prize in Classical Greek Donated in December 1933 for proficiency in languages, either Classical or Modern by the widow of Robert Douglas, a former pupil, who was, “… murdered in April 1933 by terrorists at Midnapore, Bengal.” Robert’s father, the Rev John Douglas, had been a missionary at the United Free Church mission at Nagpur. When in Edinburgh the family lived at ‘Roselea’, 9 Viewforth Terrace. Robert was born on 4 December 1889, entered Watson’s in 1903 in S2 and was then promoted to S4. His favourite subjects were Latin, Greek, English and Mathematics......  The John Dudgeon Prize for Geography This is the oldest prize in Watson’s. It started life in George Watson’s Hospital. In 1859, John Dudgeon, a tenant of the farm of Spylaw (Roxburghshire) which was owned by GWH, gifted £20 to provide prizes to encourage boys in their studies. The Governors agreed to buy a medal, call it ‘The Dudgeon Medal’, and award it to the best writer of dictation. After the Hospital became a College in 1870 the Dux on the Classical side received a gold medal. The Dux on the Modern or Commercial Side got the silver Dudgeon Medal and a watch. By about 1924/25, however, the prize then transformed into one for Geography. How that happened is not clearly understood! ......

 The Ex Corde Prize for Vocal Duets First recorded in 1994/95......  The Fencing Trophy Bought with contributions made by members of S6, 1970/71 and donated on 18 January 1972......  The Junior Fencing Trophy Gifted in May 1976 by Mrs Ellis of Bonnyrigg whose daughter won the junior fencing for girls, but found that there was no trophy. This she rectified after her daughter left school to enter nursing. Mrs Ellis now lives in Cumbria and her daughter in the Bahamas......  The Ford Prize for Services to Athletics In January 1916 £50 was received from Mr G Ford of 11 Duddingston Crescent, Portobello to establish a prize in memory of his two sons – George Turner Ford and Charles Henry Ford – who were killed-in-action on 28 June 1915 at Gulley Ravine, Gallipoli. Indeed, the two were killed virtually side- by-side as they were trying to bring help to a wounded comrade. Charles was keen on athletics, tennis and rugby. George was a famous runner who competed at Powderhall, but he was also brilliant at tennis winning the mixed doubles in the 1914 Liberton Tournament. Both joined the 4th Battalion The Royal Scots. The prize is for the winner of the 220 yard race Charles (left) and Goerge (right) at the school sports.

8  The Fortune Ski Trophy Mr and Mrs John Fortune of North Berwick had a son, David at GWC and two daughters at the Ladies’ College. Gillian left in 1968 and Fiona in 1971. Both girls showed an interest in skiing, perhaps because of the new dry slope at Hillend. As neither parent skied they were very grateful to the Watson’s staff who gave so freely of their time, especially at weekends at Kincraig, near Aviemore. Both girls reached a high standard of competence so much so that Fiona became a member of the School team and enjoyed winter skiing holidays. The Trophy was presented in 1972 in order to help stimulate pupils in a competitive, but friendly way. The intention is to reward the pupil who has shown the most progress. Tragically, Fiona died in 1990 aged 37, but left three young children who her husband taught to ski. The youngest is now a ski instructor! ......  The Douglas A Foulis Prize for Instrumental Music Douglas A Foulis, DSO, MA, was President of the Watsonian Club, 1938/39. He left Watson’s in 1902 having been a member of the 1st XV. He took an Arts degree in 1905 and joined a London publishing house. As a member of the Watsonian XV in 1907–1909, with John MacCallum as his Captain and Eric Milroy as half-back, he did much to establish the Watsonian rugby ascendancy. In WW1, Mr Foulis had a distinguished record. He joined as a Private in the 9th Royal Scots and rapidly rose to become a Lieut.- Colonel commanding the 10th Cameronians. He was twice wounded and thrice mentioned in Despatches. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for gallant services during the Battle of Arras. After the War Douglas joined William Hunter & Sons, Bookbinders and became its General Manager. A cultured man who had jeux d’esprit and a sense of humour. The Prize was awarded c.1947.

......  The Gibson Memorial Prize for Service and Merit Awarded to the Deputy Head Boy In July 1924 James Gibson donated the sum of £112 to fund a prize in memory of his two sons – Captain Robert Gray Nicol Gibson, MC and 2nd Lieutenant Reginald James Gibson – who were killed in the Great War. Robert attended Watson’s from 1901–1907 and was one of the original members of the Cadet Corps. Indeed, he was one of the first pipers in the very first Watson’s band. He fought with both the 4th and 6th Battalions of the Royal Scots, gained the Military Cross for conspicuous Robert Gray Nicol Gibson (left) and gallantry and was killed-in-action on Reginald James Gibson (right) 21 March 1918. Reginald was the younger brother and attended Watson’s from 1902–1912. He was a superb athlete being School Champion at the 1912 Games and also Captain of the 1911/12 1st XV. He joined the 4th Battalion The Royal Scots and within fourteen days of landing at Gallipoli he was killed-in-action during the same attack (28 June 1915) as the Ford brothers above. The prize is awarded, “… in recognition of his service for the College, and all round merit during his school career.” When James Gibson was alive he used to meet the recipient after Prizegiving and give him a bronze medal. In 1935, he asked that the medal be given with the prize.

9  The Glass Prizes in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics James Glass was born in 1848 and educated in George Watson’s Hospital from 1857 to 1863. He was the founder of the James Glass Trust and Glass Bursaries. You will find his portrait in the Merchant Company headquarters in Hanover Street. He always claimed his grandfather held the contract for supplying oil for lighting the streets of Edinburgh and then formed the first gas lighting company in Scotland after meeting fellow Scot William Murdoch who had invented the process. What is more certain is that his son William entered Watson’s in 1888 and created the ‘bible’ of the motor trade, Glass’s Guide. James had made his fortune in manufacturing fine leather goods, but also sold pens and stationery, including ‘ball pointed pens.’ He had started his business at 27 Cockburn Street, but then moved to the Saracen’s Head, Snow Hill, London. In endowing a huge amount of money for these prizes he said, on 7 May 1913, that, “I am glad that I have been able to repay the debt I owe to Watson’s Hospital for its generous gift to me of board and education for nearly six years.” ......  The Nancy Gordon Prize in Physics Miss Nancy Gordon (1921) died in January 1974 after a long illness borne with indomitable courage. In 1957 she became President of the Women Watsonians’ Club, a post she held for two years. She was admired for her integrity, loyalty, willingness to help others and her sense of humour, all presented with poise and assurance. During the Centenary celebrations Nancy was in charge of the Reunion and probably had the most difficult job of all, that of acting as Secretary and liaison officer to leavers in the years pre-1921.This involved a veritable mountain of letters and hours of research......  The Gordon Prize in Technological Studies This is a rare award begun c. 1985 and sponsored by the trustees of the now defunct John Watson’s. The old school building is now the Museum of Modern Art just off Queensferry Road. When John Watson’s ceased to exist its pupils came to GWC, but continued to wear their old school uniforms......  The Graham Trophy for Girls’ Cricket for the Most Improved Player Presented by the parents of Gillian Graham, Head Girl 1998/99 and Cricket Captain, 1997–1999......  The Douglas Grant Prize for Services to Swimming Initiated c. 1966 by Mr Douglas Grant of Edinburgh......  The Ian Grant Memorial Prize for Creative Writing Ian R Grant was an FP and a Director of a famous, but now defunct Edinburgh firm of booksellers. For years he had donated an Oxford Companion to Music for an outstanding musician, but, in October 1968, he proposed endowing two annual prizes for the best piece of imaginative and creative writing. The nomenclature was initially ‘The Edward Albert Memorial Prize’ after a memorable Watson’s teacher......  The Emma Gray Prize for Russian Studies Established in 2001 to help foster the study of the Russian language, history, art, music and culture, with priority being given to language. Emma left Watson’s in 1984 and her whole career in journalism and the media has revolved around her love of all things Russian. Her parents wanted to recognise the way that Watson’s cultivated that passion, especially in the Golden Age of ‘JG’ Scott and Anne Boyer.

10  The John Gray Memorial Prize in Art John Gray, of Broughty Ferry, died in February 1957 and this prize began in 1959. John had been a benefactor in his lifetime gifting, for example, four superb watercolours for use by the Art Department. The prize was to remember his son who had been an FP......  The Kenneth Green Prizes in History, Economics and Modern Studies These prizes were initiated in 1980 when Sir Roger Young was Headmaster. Kenneth Green was School Captain when Sir Roger arrived in 1959. In 1980, Kenneth asked him which department would benefit from some prize money. Perhaps because Kenneth had studied Economics at Edinburgh University, Sir Roger felt that the Economics Department was the most appropriate......  The Ian Gunn Prize for the Best Contribution to The Watsonian This began in 1952 as two prizes: 1. ‘Prize for a Contribution to the Phoenix, presented by the Editors of Ecce.’ Won by A Colin Storrar. 2. ‘Prize for the Best Contribution to the Phoenix, presented by Ian Gunn, Esq.’ Won by James JB Petrie. In 1955, these were combined into, ‘Prizes for the Best Contributions to the Phoenix presented by Ian Gunn and the Editors of ECCE.’ Subsequently, The Watsonian was combined with Phoenix, but was disengaged for the 2006 issue......  The Brodie Hall Golf Trophy A Ladies’ College award (“… a beautiful silver salver …”) presented in October 1950 by Mrs Brodie Hall who had been Captain of the Women Watsonians’ Golf Club, 1948–51......  The Mrs Jessie L Hamilton Bursary and Prize Presented in May 1983 by Mr M A Y Hamilton of Edinburgh in memory of his wife Mrs Jessie Veitch. It is for the violinist in a Junior Orchestra who has done the most to help the Orchestra......  The Roger Hamilton Single Wicket Competition Trophy The idea of a trophy was conceived by Deputy Principal Jim Cowan and funded by staff, boys and Watsonians. It is in memory of Roger Hamilton who died in September 1968. Roger had been a member of the Under 13½ Cricket XI of 1968. The award would be made, “… to the winner of the Under 13½ Single Wicket Competition.” This striking trophy was designed by, and made in silver and rosewood, by Mr Jimmy F Coull of the Art Department who died on 24 July 1992.

......  The Harkins Quaich for Services to Fencing Gifted in June 1974 by Mr and Mrs J Harkins of Cluny Gardens, Edinburgh.

11  The Wood Hawks Tennis Trophy “This I think was presented by my grandfather Richard Wood Hawks in memory of my uncle Aubrey Wood Hawks who was Dux of the school in 1914 and was killed in the First World War. His brother Victor went on to play tennis for Scotland. I also won this Cup as did my son Philip.” (Jasper Carmichael who counts 15 Watsonian relatives.) Aubrey Hawks had a brilliant career at Watson’s (1901–1914). “Throughout his School course he proved an earnest and careful student, and gained the respect of all by his uniformly courteous disposition. Outside the routine of School work he was associated with the Tennis Club, and was last year Dux, 1914 Secretary of the Literary Club. The Club under his management had a very successful session, one of its foremost orators being the Secretary himself. He is now attending University, and his many friends will watch with interest his career in that wider arena.” (The Watsonian, December 1914) At Edinburgh University he joined the 2/4th Royal Scots and served in France and Egypt. He was in France in 1918 when the German Spring Offensive began, but was dogged by bad health. On 27 September 1918, passed fit once more, he took part in several battles until he was killed during the crossing of the Canal du Nord. He is buried in a small cemetery outside Moeuvres. His brother Victor was the tennis player in the family and was capped ten times for Scotland, later becoming Honorary President of the Scottish Lawn Tennis Association. He also represented Watsonians at rugby and squash. See also The Carmichael Cup for Tennis......  The Henderson Prizes for Spoken German and French Begun in January 1919 when Mr H W Henderson of Langley, Herts. gifted a sizeable sum for a prize in Modern Languages or Science. The Head told him that scientific subjects would get a great deal of attention in future years, so it would be better to fund prizes in modern languages. The Head also suggested combining this prize with the one recently given by Mr Lorimer, but that suggestion was quietly ignored.

......  The Phyllis Hodges Prize for Excellence in Art and Design This was new S6 prize funded in February 1997 by her nephew, Mr A Garrod of Chester. Miss Phyllis Hodges was a teacher of Art at the Ladies’ College who died, during the Autumn of 1996, aged one hundred and three. The first recipient was Catherine Learmont. Phyllis was born in Assam of Scots-Irish parents who themselves had been born out East. The family moved to Sikkim then a separate state north of India. Their bungalow in Gangtok had views over the snow covered Himalayan peaks. Phyllis’ father was the British representative at the court of the Maharajah. In 1909, the whole family came to Britain and settled in Edinburgh. Phyllis and her younger sister attended GWLC. Both showed artistic talent and went to . Most of Phyllis’ life was spent teaching art at her old school. Her great skill was in creating landscape water-colours, especially of the Scottish Highlands. Phyllis was a close friend of Miss Isobel Robertson and Mr Garrod decided to follow the example set by Mr B J Skinner who set up the ‘Isobel Robertson’ prize.

12  The Johnny Horne Prizes in Biology, Chemistry, Electronics and Physics Dr John Ross (1928) of Juniper Green established these prizes for excellence in General Science in the Middle School. They were to perpetuate the memory of his old science teacher......  The House Championship Trophy “In connection with the Championship a carved oak panel has been executed by Mr J Parnell of the Staff. This shows the School Crest in the centre in inlay, surrounded by a laurel wreath with the four House Colours at the corners. An illustration of this appears opposite page 122. It will make a beautiful trophy to be awarded each year, along with the Major Prizes, to the House Captain of the winning House.” (The Watsonian, July 1937)

......  The Watson Hutton Prize for Oral French In November 1931, Mr A Watson Hutton who had been a member of staff at Watson’s between 1874 and 1881 gifted two prizes to the Merchant Company schools. One went to Daniel Stewart’s and the other came to Watson’s. They were both for, “… excellence in Modern Languages.” Our prize is in his name, but the one at Stewart’s is in memory of his brother, Robert Hutton, who was the Medallist of that College in 1866......  The Murray Ferguson Johnston Shield for Captain of the 1st XI During the 2004 Prizegiving Murray Johnston and his parents noted that, “ … all the captains of the relevant School sports’ teams were given awards apart from the School football Captain. This was obviously noted as the Captain last season was me!” The shield was first awarded in 2005.

......  The Keay Sailing Trophy This was gifted in June 1978 by Dr and Mrs Keay of Edinburgh as a memorial to David Keay who left Watson’s in 1973 and was tragically killed in a car accident on 9 December 1977......  The Dudley Langdon Prize for Instrumental Music From 1942 to 1962 Dudley Langdon was Head of Music at the Ladies’ College. In the Winter of 1965 a few of pupils decided to start a fund with an annual music prize in his memory. Dudley Langdon refused to accept that any girl was incapable of singing and appreciating music. He turned GWLC into a ‘singing school’ and he was instrumental in introducing the Leaving Certificate in Music. He paid special attention to the music for special occasions (eg Commemoration Day, Armistice Day, the Christmas Service, the Kirking of the Master, the Easter Service, the school plays and the Closing Concert), a legacy he left to his successor Marjory Traves who not only built on this tradition, but expanded the extra-curricular dimension of music.

13  The Cameron Lees Prize for Scholarship and Games This began in March 1967 as a bequest from Arthur S Cameron Lees. It was a Ladies’ College and GWC prize for pupils who were excellent at Mathematics, English and Sport......  The Fei-Fei Li Prize for Chinese  The Yang-Rui Prize for Chinese Both the above were Chinese teachers who spent a year in GWC. Yang-Rui (2003/04) was so impressed by the work of our pupils that she left some money for a prize in her name to be awarded to the member of Sixth Year who showed the most interest and commitment in learning Chinese. Her successor, Fei-Fei Li (2004/05), left money for a second prize to be awarded to the second-most committed member of Sixth Year......  The Liberton Prizes for Service to Games These began in Session 1937/38 at the Ladies’ College when Thomas Hay, a former Vice-Convenor of the school, funded two prizes to the girls, “… showing the highest ability in all games and for services to others at the playing fields.” They were named after the GWLC playing fields (1937–1974) which lay between Gilmerton Road and Kirk Brae, Liberton. The first two recipients were Margaret Nicoll and Muriel Curr......  The Literary Club Prize for Debating Initiated in 1937 by Mr W A Robertson who was also the donor of the Elsie Robertson Prize. It was at first known as the prize for ‘Public Speaking.’ ......  The Lizars Prize for French This is one of the oldest prizes in existence funded in 1897 from a legacy left by Mrs Mary Lizars, widow of Dr Lizars who had been the Professor of Anatomy at University. It was for excellence in Modern Languages and earlier recipients received a silver watch. Many eminent people have won this prize, including John Anderson who became Winston Churchill’s deputy......  The Logan Trophy for Rowing Presented by the Logan family in 2003 in recognition of the help given by Watson’s to their sons which enabled them to reach international standard. It is not presented every year as it is aimed at recognising a rower or crew, “… of outstanding calibre.” ......  The London Watsonian Club Prize for Verse Speaking Begun in 1979 when Women Watsonians funded two prizes for the Senior and Junior Schools......  The London Watsonian Club Rowing Trophy Gifted in 1970......  The Lorimer Sixth Form Prize in Spanish George Lorimer, a former Master of the Merchant Company, founded this prize to encourage the study of the Spanish language by donating the then massive sum of £100 in December 1918.

14  The James Loutit Memorial Prize in Mathematics Founded on 10 September 1964 in memory of Mr James Frederick Robson Loutit who died on 25 May 1963 in New York. James had been born in Valparaiso, Chile in 1919. He and his brother Joe came to Watson’s in 1920. James loved Watson’s and, because of his mathematical expertise, became an actuary. He enjoyed sport, especially tennis, hockey and swimming. His close friend, Jim Wilson, founded the Hockey Club and James was Captain of the School Hockey Team from 1925/26. He was a member of the Watsonian Hockey Team before emigrating to the USA. There he eventually became President and Director of the American International Reinsurance Group for 35 years. He also became President of the North American Watsonian Club. The prize fund was gifted by his widow and a good friend Mr John Peoples, both of New York. Books on Mathematics were also gifted to the S6 Library.

......  The Jane Low Prizes Begun sometime between 1974 and 1978, but no information available. Can someone help? ......  The William James Lowe Memorial Prize in Chemistry On 1 June 1917, Mr J R Lowe of Ashville, Melrose gifted the school sufficient stock to fund an annual prize, “… in the form of books, or instruments of science.” The prize is in memory of his son, William James Lowe, who was killed in France on 22 December 1916. William attended Watson’s between 1909 and 1913. He had a brilliant career culminating in him being chosen as Dux on the Modern (Commercial) side. When war began he was training to be an electrical engineer. James joined the Machine Gun Corps in 1915. After 18 months of heavy fighting James was badly wounded on 22 December 1916 and died soon after.

......  The Leonard R Lyall Prize in Technological Studies A relatively new prize begun by Leonard Lyall of Edinburgh to coincide with the opening of the new Technology block in 1993......  The Stewart MacFarlane Memorial Trophy for Service to Athletics Stewart was born on 28 March 1979 and was, “… tragically killed in an accident.” on 12 February 1999, aged only nineteen. Stewart had been Head of Sixth Year, a member of the 1st XV, a brilliant swimmer and footballer, a member of the Scottish U21 Waterpolo Team, holder of the gold Duke of Edinburgh award and academically gifted. He was also one of the best human beings: warm, loyal and with a sense of humour. On one Open Day he dressed up as a clown. He spent a Gap Year at Wynberg High School in South Africa where he became a much respected and popular coach and member of the boarding house staff. While at university Stewart accidentally fell over a cliff at St Andrews.

15  The Gordon McHaffie Sailing Trophy Gordon McHaffie was a member of the Watsonian Club Toronto Branch and became its President in the early 1950s. Gordon attended Watson’s from 1912–1921. He was part of the 1920/21 School Rugby Team which was undefeated. It was the Public Schools Champion at the same time as the Watsonian first team was the Scottish unofficial champion. He became an engineer and emigrated to Canada in 1950. He retired in 1969 and died in 2000 at the age of 96. He had been a very keen sailor and started selling dinghies in 1940. After moving to Canada he built his own boat. He then switched to Dragon Class keel boats which he sailed from The Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto. Gordon was a very successful racer. One of his greatest achievements was winning the North American Dragon Championship at the age of 79! Even after retiring he was in demand as a race official. Right to the end he was proud of Watson’s and wished to support what the school was doing......  The Mackay Cup for Swimming Presented by A S Mackay in 1945. He was an FP then living in New South Wales and this prize was to reward, “… the greatest proficiency in swimming, diving, plunging and life-saving.” The winner would also receive a replica to keep. Because of the War it was difficult to get a new Cup made, but it was eventually awarded for the first time in 1947. It was known as “The Simpson Mackay Cup for Aquatics.” He also stipulated that if any money was left over after making the replica each year then it should be put towards a prize in Mathematics......  The Kirk Mackie Prize for Gymnastics One of the oldest Watson’s prizes founded by a legacy in July 1901 of 100 guineas. Kirk Mackie had been a Secretary and law agent of the Merchant Company, especially active in bringing about the change from Hospital to College. He left prizes in the Merchant Company schools for, “… superiority in athletic or gymnastic exercises.” Watson’s chose to have it as a prize for cricket, but Kirk Mackie was quite specific that the prize for the Ladies’ College would be for, “… gymnastic or outdoor exercises.” After the 1974 merger the Ladies’ version won, but there is nothing to stop the prize being used for activities other than gymnastics.

Kirk Mackie (Picture courtesy of the Edinburgh Room, Edinburgh Central Library) ......  The Donald MacLaren Prizes in Italian and Latin The Latin prizes (2) are for S2, but the Italian is an open one. They were initiated in 1991 shortly before Donald died. Donald was a Watsonian and had been taught from 1937–1942 by the inspirational John Penman, Head of Classics. Donald made it quite clear what he hoped his prizes for Latin would do: “I would not like the Classics to be a cinderella as it is in some schools, or has disappeared altogether.” Donald would have known all about that as he taught Classics for most of his career at Broughton Higher Grade School. He was a lovely, kind and pleasant human being with a great love for Hibs, Franco, Spain and the Classics; probably in that order. Indeed, it is surprising there is no award for Spanish, or Spanish History.

16  The Emma MacLaren Memorial Prize for Achievement Emma MacLaren was the daughter of Maxi MacLaren, a long serving and popular Watsonian member of staff. Emma suffered from a serious heart condition, but bore it with great courage and dignity. She died the day before her Higher results arrived. From Session 1988 it was decided to set aside one of the Service Prizes and rename it as a memorial to Emma. It is awarded to a pupil who has overcome difficulties as well as one who has contributed to the school. Sometimes there is no award......  The Dr Neil MacLeod Prize for a Project in Mathematics (S2) A very old prize indeed, first awarded in June 1918. Neil MacLeod (Dean of Guild) and his wife donated £100 to establish two prizes in Mathematics as a memorial to their deceased son who had been a pupil at Watson’s......  The Betty MacPherson Prize for Service to the Ochestra This is a Ladies’ College Prize begun in October 1968 by John M A McPherson, “… for outstanding work in the orchestra.” Betty was the mother of Fiona McPherson who was a talented violinist in the 1960s......  The Maitland Prizes for Spoken French and German Awarded from June 1981 in the name of the four Maitland brothers who attended Watson’s: Douglas (1930), Alastair (1933), Ian (1936) and Sir Donald (1939), “… in appreciation of the help and encouragement they were given to become proficient in Modern Languages.” All had distinguished careers, especially Sir Donald, who, after war service, joined the Foreign Service. Between 1956 and 1960 he was Director of the Middle East Centre for Arab Studies, Lebanon. In 1967, he became Principal Private Secretary to the Foreign Secretary and later Ambassador to Libya. In the 1970s he was appointed Chief Press Secretary to the Prime Minister and received his Knighthood in 1973. During much of the 70s Sir Donald was the UK Permanent Representative to the United Nations and later the European Union. In 1980, he became he Permanent Under-Secretary of the Department of State for Energy. Later the became heavily involved in the development of world telecommunications and was Chairman of the Independent Commission for World Wide Telecommunications Development. In the late 80s, he was Deputy Chairman of the Independent Broadcasting Authority. Sir Donald has held numerous public and academic appointments as well as directorships. He was Chairman of the Governors of Westminster College and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Bath. One of the outstanding Watsonians of his generation. 1936 Donald: the smallest boy in the OTC

2000 Sir Donald receiving the Chancellor’s Medal at the University, Bath

17  The Charles Malcolm Memorial Prize in History Bequested in April 1966 by Miss Annie Dickie in memory of her uncle who had been a pupil at Watson’s. It was initially for the best essay on the subject of ‘Edinburgh’, or ‘Old Edinburgh’ and meant to encourage interest in local research. Indeed, it was recognised that many pupils give up the subject in S3 and it was hoped this prize would encourage, “… a more positive interest and understanding of their city and its history.” It has now grown into three prizes......  The Henry Meikle Prize in Scottish History In May 1962 Mr Lind Weir of Napier Road, Edinburgh launched two prizes – one at Stewart’s and the other at Watson’s – in memory of his uncle, the late Dr Henry W Meikle who was, at the time of his death, the Historiographer Royal for Scotland. Henry Meikle had been schooled at Stewart’s, but had taught at Watson’s......  The Melrose Prizes Begin in 1958, but very little information available. Can you help? ......  The Robert Burnett Merson Prize for Art Donated in June 1928, but the first award – for drawing – was made in 1929. The first recipient was James Jaboor. Mr and Mrs Merson of Hampton Terrace gave the prize in memory of their son who had been an FP......  The Moonie Memorial Singing Prize and Trophy Founded in July 1926 at the Ladies’ College, Watson’s and Stewart’s in memory of James A Moonie who had taught Singing in all three schools. The prize, “… will serve as an enduring tribute to his skill and the value of his work, and will promote the art which he loved and taught.” James died on 28 April 1923 shortly after retiring. He was holidaying in Nice and caught a chill which developed into pneumonia. Part-time teachers usually discovered, “… that their classes soon got out of hand … but Mr Moonie would have none of that!” “ Though the methods adopted in my classes may have savoured somewhat of those of the sergeant-major, they were taken, I think, in most sporting fashion.” He had been a talented musician and on tour with Carlotta Patti, Henry Irving and John L Toole. What kept him busy in the three schools was preparation for what were then called ‘closing exhibitions’ ie prizegivings. Those were lengthy, but very long affairs usually involving a hymn, several Scots songs, a sea chanty, a vocal waltz and a grand march. James had been born in Edinburgh and was buried in the Grange Cemetery with a memorial paid for out of a fund collected by his many friends and ex-pupils. Its surplus still supports this prize. James was indeed, “… a very distinguished musician and a most outstanding personality.”

18  The Hamish and Ian Munro Prizes These began at the end of the Second War at the instigation of Mr W M Munro, OBE of Salisbury, a timber merchant in Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia, in memory of his two sons who were killed. These prizes are unique in that they were run by the boys themselves. The Captain of the School plus the Captain and Vice Captain of the 1st XV chose who was to receive one prize. The Captain and Captain and Vice Captain of the 1st XI chose who was to get the other. The Head had no say in this, acting only if necessary as arbiter. Ian MacKenzie Munro was a Hamish Munro Ian Munro Flight Lieutenant in the Rhodesian Air Squadron who attended Watson’s from 1933–1937. He gained 1st XV, 1st XI and Shooting Colours. He volunteered for the RAF in 1939 and was killed in an air crash over Exeter on 3 May 1943. Roich Hamish MacKenzie Munro attended Watson’s from 1928 to 1930. In May 1940, he volunteered to join the RAF as a pilot. He was killed-in-action over Malta on 12 June 1941. Their father died in April 1962 in Rhodesia......  The Thow Munro Prize W Thow Munro – an FP – offered to fund an annual prize to, “… the best all round boy” who was leaving school. Success in the classroom counted, but not entirely. “There are other things that will carry high value, such as a boy’s reputation for honourable conduct, his manners and address, his personal carriage even.” (Dr Allison, Headmaster, The Watsonian, November 1922) It began as an award for ‘Merit and Service to the School.’ ......  The Murray Dance Prize A Ladies’ College prize gifted on 14 May 1969 by Mr and Mrs Murray, parents of Rowena, Fiona and Deborah. Mrs Murray died in 1997......  The William Murray Prize in Modern Studies Gifted in February 1968 by Mr W Murray, CA, Edinburgh for Modern History......  The William Murray Prize in Modern Languages William Murray of Strathpeffer endowed this prize in 1969. He came to Watson’s in 1890 aged six.

19  The J Margaret Naughton Prize for Services to the School “No-one understood George Square and all that it meant better than Peggy Naughton. She was the complete Watsonian.” (Liz Smith, George Watson’s College: An Illustrated History, p.262) Peggy attended GWLC from 1922–1933, started teaching in the Primary department in 1943, was Head of the Upper Junior School, 1955–1974, became Assistant Principal at GWC following the merger and retired in 1980. She was the last President of the Women Watsonians and the first woman President of the Watsonian Club. Peggy died in 1986 and this prize was established in her memory by her very good friend, Deputy Head May Nicol.

......  The May Nicol Prize for Services to the School One of the great History teachers of all time, May was Head of History at George Square from 1960 to 1974. She became an outstanding Deputy Head at the merger and was in post for 16 years. A wonderful human being (read the new George Watson’s College: An Illustrated History, pp 287–288).

......  The James MacLeod Nicol Trophy for Services to Hockey Gifted in April 1983 by his daughter Mrs N Platfoot of Manor Place, Edinburgh......  The Dorothy Nicolson Prize for Service and Merit Awarded to the Head Girl Dorothy Nicolson had been a GWLC pupil for 12 years before taking a degree at Edinburgh University in French and Latin. Her father had been the pastor of the old Bristo Place Baptist Church just round the corner from George Square. She taught in Carlisle, Aberdeen and Bath before becoming Headmistress at the High School for Girls at Wigan. She was appointed Head of the Ladies’ College in 1945. Dorothy died in 1957. A memorial fund was established, with her friends from Wigan taking part. By July 1958, £334 19s 8d had been raised, enough to purchase a Lectern Bible for the School, a bronze statue of St Christopher for the Library and a stone one for St Alban’s Road. The remainder was used to fund this prize which was always awarded to The Senior Prefect. The Deputy Senior Prefect was awarded the Mona Brebner Prize. This remains the case today......  The Norrie Prize for Latin Mr John R Norrie had three sons at Watson’s after 1870 who subsequently had distinguished careers. On 8 November 1894, the eldest, a Magistrate in India, presented a sum for prizes in Latin and Greek. The family then continued to present a prize each year (eg for New Testament Greek) until 1945 when it was decided to try and make the prize permanent through the means of a sizeable donation. The family stated that if there were insufficient candidates then it was up to the Merchant Company officials to decide what to do with it.

20  The Ogilvie Prize in Classical Greek  The Ogilvie Sixth Form Prize in Latin These are very old prizes. Newly retired Head, Dr Ogilvie, had been presenting annual prizes since 1898, but decided to make them permanent. In 1900, he presented GWC with a sizeable amount for a prize to be chosen by the school. Four years later he did the same for the Ladies’ College. It is quite clear that Ogilvie would have preferred the prizes to have been for ‘Science.’

......  The Ramsay Paterson Prizes in History  The Robert Paterson Prize for a Pencil Portrait  The Polly Ramsay Prizes for Home Economics Dr Thomas Ramsay Paterson (“Ramsay Pat”) was born on 29 September 1901 and came to Watson’s in 1911. He left in 1918 when he was only seventeen to study at Edinburgh University where he gained a First Class Degree in Chemistry followed by a Doctorate. He then joined the Nobel Explosives Company at Ardeer which subsequently transformed into Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). He spent a great deal of his time researching explosives. Ramsay Pat retired in 1961. He was a loveable, kind bachelor, eccentric, thrifty and a genius with stocks and shares. He died on 5 March 1981 and left £150,000 to Watson’s. A small amount of that was used to establish the History Prizes and the Home Economics Prizes which were named after his mother. His brother Robert became an artist of distinction and left money for the best pencil portrait by a pupil in S4. Ramsay Pat’s father was an architect and one of five brothers who attended GWC. He designed the Myreside Pavilion which opened in 1897. He then emigrated to Canada, but, unfortunately, suffered badly frost-bitten fingers which affected his career. The economic hardship suffered by his family had a profound influence on Ramsay Pat who was determined to help the school which had helped him......  The Victor Pechar Cup for Middle School Young Musician of the Year Victor was a much respected Music teacher at GWC who was Head of Strings before retiring in 1995. He had an interesting career. He was born in Czechoslovakia in 1926 and trained at the Prague Conservatoire of Music from 1942–1948. During the 1950s he taught in Communist Slovakia, but managed to defect to the West while visiting Britain with a Czech military orchestra. He taught in Monmouthshire. Salford, Reykjavik (his wife is Icelandic), Gwent, Gordonstoun and then GWC from 1 September 1986......  The Reid Prize for Spoken French A Ladies’ College prize begun in January 1932 by John Reid who was a former Vice-Convener of the College, 1930/31. It is for proficiency in oral, or spoken French.

21  The Alice Robertson Prizes On 6 December 1973, Allan E Robertson donated £500 to fund prizes in cookery and needlework, although the school could change that at will......  The Blair Robertson Prize in Computing Studies Begun in 2000 by JS Robertson, “… in recognition of my son’s progress in Computing” and because of, “… an apparent gap in the prize list..” ......  The Elsie Robertson Memorial Prize in Art  The Elsie Robertson Memorial Prize for Dux of the Third Form  The Elsie Robertson Memorial Prize for Scholarship and Games These prizes all stem from the funding for one prize begun in December 1933 by Mr WA Robertson in memory of his late wife, “… for the best scholar and athlete in the Intermediate School.” Mr Robertson was an FP and the first recipient of his prize was Malcolm C Cowan......  The George Robertson Prizes: For Classical Studies, Instrumental Music and Singing Founded in October 1943 by former “Headmaster Emeritus” George Robertson initially for, “… the instrumental side of the Music Department.” He wanted it to be known as “A Prize founded by George Robertson, a former Headmaster of the School.”

......  The Isabel Robertson Prizes for School Exchanges Started in 1997 when Brian and Penelope Skinner of Surrey endowed two prizes in memory of Penelope’s aunt, Miss Isabel Robertson who was Head of the German Department at the Ladies’ College for 25 years until she retired in 1949. Isabel was a graduate in French and German from Glasgow University and came to Watson’s via Lenzie. During the 1930s she had taken two pupil groups to the Hartz Mountains and the Black Forest.. Indeed, Isabel had travelled a lot when young and regarded the main reason for learning a language, “… is to be able to enjoy other peoples’ culture.” This award may help some young person just to do precisely that. Isabel was also House Mistress of Greyfriars for several years and a valuable Form Mistress genuinely interested in pastoral care. She was an avid reader with a remarkable memory for learning by heart and a veritable mountain of quotations which she readily used on every possible occasion. She enjoyed a long retirement. Isabel died in 1982.

22  The Rosemary Cup for Intermediate Rowing The sweetie shop opposite the Boat House was called ‘Rosemary’ and was frequented by GWC rowers, not only for its crisps and cokes, but also for its handy toilets! The agreeable woman who owned this wonderful shop donated the Cup around 1990......  The William Baird Ross Award in Music Given by Dr E C B Ross (GWLC) in May 1982 in memory of her father Dr William Baird Ross who had been a member of staff from 1908 to 1937......  The Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation Prize for Mathematics and Physics Ian C MacQuarrie from Canada established this award in 2006 in gratitude for his eight years at Watson’s and six at Rolls-Royce. Those two institutions were powerful influences on his life. The award is for excellence in both Maths and Physics at S4 level and encourages further progress. The winner gets to be a guest at the Scottish section of the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts’ Club and also visits the Royce Memorial Foundation in England accompanied by Ian MacQuarrie......  The Anna Semeonova Prize for Spoken Russian Began in 1966 and funded by Dr Boris Semeonoff of the Psychology Department, Edinburgh University in memory of his mother who taught Russian at Watson’s. It is for a pupil under 16 years who intends to continue his or her studies. Anna was born on 11 March 1889, entered Watson’s as a visiting teacher on 19 September 1918 and retired on 23 July 1959. Russian had been introduced by Mr Currall in 1915 and when he left for military service, Anna took over. Her record is impressive. In 1946/47, Watson’s gained the distinction of having the first Leaving Certificate passes in Russian in Scotland. Previously pupils had worked for RSA examinations. Indeed, Anna was also instrumental in creating that Leaving Certificate. The BBC was so impressed that they broadcast Russian lessons and songs across the world from a van parked outside the Main Entrance. Anna also wrote text books and her Brush Up Your Russian became internationally known. Above all, this tiny woman was known for her tremendous energy, indomitable spirit, courage and tenacity. She was said to have been a Bolshevik who had escaped the Tsarist Regime. This was given some credence by the habit of parking her car in the Head’s space and refusing to move it! ......  The Shannon Prize for French Literature For, “… the best literary essay or piece of literary criticism in French” produced by a member of S6. Begun in October 1926 by J W Shennan who was an Old Master of the Merchant Company and a GWC Vice-Convener. He also donated two prizes for Russian, the first winner being Boris Semeonoff......  The Andrew Simpson Memorial Trophy for Single Wicket Competition First awarded on 25 June 1992. Donated by the parents of Andrew Simpson who died in 1991, tragically killed crossing the road on his way home from school during the prelims in November. He loved sport and was a good cricketer. The first recipient was Neil McCallum.

23  The Harold Skelton Prizes (German and Russian) In June 1961 the Merchant Company Education Board were informed that Harold Skelton had died. He left a substantial sum of money to endow a prize in Modern Languages, preferably Russian. He also left a book collection to the Blair Morrison Library and a grandfather clock – now in the Head’s room – which is said to have been owned by William Wordsworth......  The Helen Smalley Prize for S3 Projects First recorded in 1987. A second prize for the best Log Book was started the following year......  The Sir Malcolm Smith Prize for the Dux of the Third Form In October 1924, Malcolm Smith KBE, wanted to mark the end of his tern of office as Vice-Convener of GWC. He donated this prize plus one for ‘Putting the Weight’. In addition, he bought a new Bass Drum for the Pipe Band......  The Campbell Spiers Trophy for Services to Curling Donated on May 1980 by Mrs A P Spiers of Hillview Crescent, Edinburgh. Campbell Spiers, proprietor of the Ponton Street Garage, was a worthy member of the Watsonian Curling Club and prominent also in Edinburgh Masonic curling. The trophy was found amongst Campbell’s effects and, with the help of Robin Welsh, was presented to the College. Very often it was awarded to that year’s Curling Captain, but there have been many exceptions to this, usually when the Captain was in S5, or had already won the trophy......  The George Watson’s Prize for Sporting Excellence This magnificent glass trophy was presented in 2005 by Major General John MacDonald and was won by Murray Bringhurst. The recipient must be in S5 or S6 and have achieved representative honours within a sport, or a senior team member who has achieved success in national competition. General MacDonald was School Captain in 1955, played rugby for Scotland and still holds the GWC Shot Put record 50 years on. Now there’s a target to beat! ......  The Squash Rackets Championship Cup Donated anonymously in 1952......  The Stewart Sixth Form Prize in Biology This is a Ladies’ College prize founded in 1934, but made permanent in 1952 by a legacy from Miss Mary E C Stewart the sister of Miss Annie Stewart who had been a teacher at GWLC. It began life as ‘The Annie Stewart Memorial Prize’ and was awarded for excellence in Handwork and Nature Study......  The William and Anne Sturrock Memorial Prize William Sturrock left money in 1945 to reward a, “Composition in the Scots Vernacular.” Eventually it was expanded to an essay on an aspect of Scotland of Scottish culture within the sphere of the English Department rather than Geography or History. William had been a former President of the Watsonian Club and Vice President of the Scottish Cricket Union. He died on 2 July 1964 and left sufficient funding to ensure permanency. His wife Anne died in 1985.

24  The Sweetman Trophy for Boys’ House Hockey Richard and Gill Sweetman (Family Foundation) donated this trophy in 2004. Their children – Caroline, David and Andrew – all played for the 1st XI and now play Watsonian hockey. Indeed, it is a favourite family game as both a grandfather and great-uncle enjoyed the sport......  The Titania Trophy Presented in the Summer of 1968 by Mr and Mrs Lemmon (née Joan Bentham) for the House Drama Competition in memory of their daughter Lesley. This unique trophy is a piece of crystal upon which is engraved a depiction of Titania in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It was designed by Norman Orr. In 1949, Lesley Joan Lemmon came to Watson’s at the age of ten from Aberdeen High School for Girls and was appointed Deputy Head Girl, 1957/58. She was also elected House Captain of Lauriston and as a Committee member of the Dramatic Club. The latter was the driving force in a brave and spectacular musical production of The Dream which involved both Lesley Lemmon School choir and orchestra. The final show took place on 26–28 June 1958 in the Little Theatre. Although not stated, there seems little doubt as to who played Titania! “V responsible. Capable. V pleasant manner. Dramatic ability. Took leading parts in School plays.” (School Report, 1958) In her final year at Watson’s Lesley won the Robert Louis Stevenson Club prize, the London Watsonian Club for Verse Speaking, the Special Prize for German and the Prize for Citizenship presented by the Headmistress. Lesley then went on to study Modern Languages at The . Sadly, Lesley died in 1967. Her father, R M Lemmon, OBE, BL, also presented another trophy in her memory to be used for the House Shakespeare Competition......  The Kathryn Taylor Prize in Biology A Ladies’ College prize first awarded in 1969. The parents of Kathryn Taylor (Head Girl, 1967/68), gave this prize, “… in most grateful thanks for all you (Hilda Fleming) and your Staff did to make Kathryn’s years at GWLC not only successful, but very happy ones.” ......  The U Myint Thin Prize for Service to Internationalism First awarded in 1995. Stella Pe-Win was a pupil here in the 1990s. Her father was Burmese and a nephew of U Myint Thin who had been a judge in the Burmese Supreme Court. He had fought for human rights before the takeover by the present military dictatorship. Stella was a strong supporter of the Peace and Justice Society which had been established in the school by Mrs Pat Boyd, former Head of Religious Education.

25  The Thornton Walker Prizes for Latin Thornton Walker of Leamington Spa was the first of a long line of Watsonians to enter the Indian Civil Service. He founded the prize in November 1932 to encourage Latin and Greek verse in the school. The prizes are at the discretion of the Headmaster and could be used for other purposes......  The Torrance Golf Cup Presented by T A Torrance in 1932/33 and won by A S Flockhart. T A Torrance was a gifted golf player who won the Irish Amateur Golf Championship among many other titles. His brother William Breck Torrance was probably more famous in Watsonian circles winning the Club Gold Medal in 1925. William was an Insurance Manager who, when he retired, began helping good causes such as the war blinded and disabled. Golf was the love of his life and he won the St George’s Challenge Cup, the Silver Tassie and the Evening News Tournament. On several occasions he was part of the Watsonian team which won the Edinburgh Evening Dispatch Trophy. He was also a member of the first British Walker Cup team which visited America in 1922 and a WB Torrance (left) and member of the Scottish International Golf teams from 1922–1930. He died TA Torrance (right) on the 25 July 1956......  The Welsh Kettle for Curling The Welsh Kettle was first awarded in Season 1962/63 having been given by Robin Welsh who was one of the group of Watsonian curlers that had arranged the founding of the School Club in 1962. The trophy was found among the many curling possessions of his father, also Robin Welsh. It is dated in the late 1800s and was probably won at some bonspiel by Robin Welsh, Senior. Robin Welsh, Senior, was an outstanding Scottish sportsman who gained international honours in Rugby, Lawn Tennis and Curling – the only Watsonian to have represented Scotland in three sports. He played in the curling team that won gold medals for Britain at the Winter Olympics at Claminith in 1924. His wife was the foremost Lawn Tennis player of her generation, winning 18 Scottish titles. Hugh Welsh, Robin’s younger brother, was a famous ‘miler’ (see The Hugh Welsh Trophy). Willie, a cousin, J Linn, skip of the winning rink, was a Rugby ‘’, a triple Scottish sprint champion and President of the receives the Robin Welsh Curler’s Kettle, 1963 Scottish – as Robin was too! Robin Watson Welsh Junior was brilliant at golf, but soon concentrated on tennis and was twice Scottish Junior Champion. He played his first game for Scotland in 1939 when he was only 19 and played 12 times in all. On the administrative side he was President of the East of Scotland Lawn Tennis Association and President of Liberton Lawn Tennis Club, which was built by Robin Welsh Senior on his farm at Liberton Mains. Robin Junior was better known as a curler and held the post of Secretary of the Watsonian Curling Club for 24 years. He was also Secretary of the International Curling Federation and the author of an influential work, Beginner’s Guide to Curling. In WW2 he served on the same ship as Sir Roger Young, future Watson’s Headmaster who said Robin was the first Watsonian he had ever met. Robin was awarded the MBE in 1984 and died on 20 January 2006, aged 86. Incidentally, Robin’s twin sister, Mollie, played for Scotland at tennis, hockey and badminton. A talented family indeed!

26  The John L White Prize for General Knowledge John White had been a former Master of the Merchant Company and instituted this prize in February 1945. In May 1951 he extended it to Stewart’s and the Ladies’ College, the latter being an experiment to see if it would work with ‘girls’. Having proved to be successful he extended it to Mary Erskine’s in 1952. John also made occasional gifts (eg a very valuable bassoon to the orchestra in 1950), but his most famous one was the return of the front pitch from war use (savoy cabbages) to hockey field. The cost of moving 14,000 cubic yards of soil was too great for the school: £6,000. John and his brother offered to do it for nothing. They did their best, but you will have to judge the end result for yourself. John was a man of few words, but physically strong and truly reliable. He left school in 1902, a classical scholar with a love for golf. He graduated in Engineering at Edinburgh University and, since 1909, was a successful Civil Engineer. He was, however, better known for his public services and has the distinction of being the first Watson’s boy to have been elected both Master of the Merchant Company and President of The Watsonian Club. Among many honourable posts he was on the Management Board of The Royal Infirmary and a Governor of Dr Guthrie’s School. In 1942, he was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh. During WW1 John served with the Lothian and Border Horse, but soon transferred to the Engineers where he rose to the rank of Captain. He served in Gallipoli and France, and was mentioned three times in Despatches. During WW2, he was Engineer Officer with Edinburgh Home Guard. He died in May 1968......  The James Whitton Prizes for Project Work on Contemporary Britain Founded in May 1983 by Mrs Mary Whitton in memory of her husband James Whitton, a Watsonian with a great interest in current affairs and politics who had been President of the Watsonian Club in 1971/72. James entered Watson’s in 1916 and left in 1924. In his own words he had an undistinguished school career, but he did attain the unique rank of Lance Corporal Piper in the Cadet Corps. James became a Chartered Accountant and then a Director in several important companies, including Scotsman Publications, Ltd. Since 1947 he was Auditor of the Merchant Company and was involved with the school Development Fund in 1961. As a Territorial soldier Jim was mobilised in the Pay Corps and soared to become a Lieutenant Colonel. He was also a very keen sportsman, keen on cricket, curling and rugby......  The Wright Prize for Scholastic Excellence Mrs Wright of Bonnington funded this prize to the extent of £200 in 1868 which makes this one of the oldest prizes in the school. In 1869, the Governors of GW Hospital added £50 to boost its value which was paid from the annual interest......  The Yorkshire Watsonian Club Prize in Mathematics Started in October 1962. The Club wanted to endow a prize, so it consulted the Head who advised an S6 prize in Pure Mathematics as none such existed......  The Ernst and Young Prize for Business Management Begun in 1994/95 for ‘Management and Information Studies’ and endowed by the firm of that name.

27 EPILOGUE Prizes come and go. The top academic prize in Watson’s (boys or girls) was always the Dux Medal. The one illustrated on the right was the medal for Dux of the Classical Side at GWC, first awarded to Robert Orr after the Hospital transformed into a School in 1870. The previous Hospital equivalent (The silver Dudgeon Medal – bottom right) was downgraded to an award for the Dux on the Commercial or Modern Side. Medals were extremely popular prizes, as were watches, but all that stopped with the Second World War and the scarcity of materials. In May 1952, The Merchant Company Education Board agreed that instead of a Medal the Duxes of the four schools should receive an Oxford Book of Quotations bound in leather, stamped with gold and bound in the school colours. In February 1959, the four Heads unanimously decided to abolish the term ‘Dux’ as it had become extremely difficult to assess pupils because of the wide variety of different courses being taken. Instead there were to be three top prizes of equal merit, the Book of Quotations would continue to be awarded and the names of each ‘Trio’ would be recorded on the list of Duxes. Each of those new awards (in Watson’s!) was named ‘The George Watson’s Prize.’ The Dux, however, was a concept deeply rooted inthe psyche of each school and refused to go away. From 1923, the Captain of GWC received an impressive memento from The Watsonian Club being an etching of the School within a superb silver frame. The first recipient was I D Easton. In 1941, the War stopped that and post-1945 it was far too expensive to produce. Instead, in 1951, a replica of the school torch was designed and given to all Captains retrospectively. To replace the silver Watsonian Club Medal for Scholarship and Games a plaque was devised showing the Founder’s coat of arms.

The GWLC Gold Watch and Dux Medal

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