You may have noticed some of the changes that were made at Ohrstrom Library over the summer. We are excited about all of them, but our archivist is especially happy about the changes that are making SPS history more visible for everyone.
The Rural Record
The Rural Record is a handwritten journal which was kept by various SPS faculty members from 1857-1902. An indispensable source of information about St. Paul’s early years, the entries range from descriptions of the weather and daily life at the school to events of national significance. We currently have the first volume on display in the Main Lobby. Over the course of this year, we will turn the pages of this journal every Monday and follow along as the 1857-1858 school year unfolds. Our archivist, Ms. Parsi, will transcribe some highlights each week, but for the most part, we will attempt to decipher the handwriting of Rev. Francis Chase together.
Abbe Gallery
William “Bill” Abbe, a faculty member at St. Paul’s School for more than 30 years, was the School’s first full-time fine arts teacher. During his long tenure, he also served as faculty adviser of the Art Association, assistant director of the Dramatic Club, and vice president of the Shattuck Boat Club.
Abbe’s artwork is instantly recognizable to generations of SPS students. He illustrated the school calendar, created colorful maps of the School, and provided daily cartoon commentary on everyday life at SPS, which was published in “Day by Day: A Diary of Sketches.” He is best known for his iconic woodblock and linoleum prints. Come see our favorites in the new Abbe gallery just off the Main Lobby.
Seikei exhibit
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the SPS-Seikei exchange program. In honor of this significant milestone, the history of the program is recounted in our new archives exhibit, An Invaluable Friendship: Seikei-St. Paul’s at 75, 1949-2024. The exhibit, located on the Upper Level at Ohrstrom, will be up throughout the fall term.
In addition to these new features, we have also gathered together our alum authors into the SPS Authors Collection, which can be found in Baker Reading Room. Be inspired, informed, and entertained by generations of SPS alum authors! Or if you are interested in SPS history, check out our new display table in the Main Lobby and our newly revamped Archives Research Guide, available HERE.
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