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“...twice a year by the
CHEFOO SCHOOLS ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 147 260 Adelaide Street East Toronto, Canada M5A 1N0
GENERAL EDITOR
F. Robert Joyce, M.A.
Assistant Editor
Esther N. Fuller, B.Sc.
Editor-at-large
Sheila P. Miller
NEWS EDITORS
Australia — Peter Robinson Europe — Annemarie (Bartsch) Wesner Great Britain — Timothy Reynolds New Zealand — Linton Conway North America — Isabel Taylor Philippines — Ruth Dykema
OBJECTS OF THE CHEFOO SCHOOLS ASSOCIATION
• To operate as an Association for all former scholars and past and present members of the staffs of the Chefoo Schools.
• To sustain interest amongst its members in matters concerning the Schools and in one another.
• To afford means whereby its members are kept in touch with each other and with the Schools.
• To promote friendly relationship between all persons in any way connected with the Schools.
MEMBERSHIP IN THE ASSOCIATION
• All former scholars of the Schools and past or present members of the staffs of the Schools are eligible for Ordinary...”
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“...■
VOL. 80, No. 2
DECEMBER 1987
Herbert J. Alty — School Master. 1890-1927 2
The Story of Our China Inland Mission Schools
in Chefoo, 1879-1929 by H. J. Alty 3
"RULING" 28
Reunion Reports:
Auckland 29
Edinburgh 29
Vancouver 30
Melbourne 32
Annual Chefoo Reunion Register 33
News from Old Chefuslans 34
From the Chefoo Archives:
Care of Photographs Around the House 44
Top of the page: The drawing of Chefoo (Yantai) bay and harbour with the C.I.M. Schools’ buildings in the foreground is by Helen (Hulse) Fox (1947-51], a professional illustrator and calligrapher....”
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“...all, as he did his pupils, along life’s way with a genial selfless fun mingled with intense earnestness.
H.J. Alty remains one of the best remembered teachers of the Chefoo Schools. The portrait sketch above introduces "H.J.A." to those of us who attended a Chefoo School after he had left in 1927! It is adapted from a memoir written by one of his colleagues, Harold A.H. Lea [Staff 1906-16], for The Chefoo Magazine in 1947. Mr. Alty’s tenure of 38 years on the School staff has been exceeded by only three other staff members - the 41 years each of Miss Pyle [1911-51] and Mrs. McCarthy [1890-1930], and the 44 years of Mr. McCarthy [1887-1930],
Fortunately, Mr. Alty recorded many of his memories of his many years at the School in an article prepared about 1929 as a source for the Mission's commemorative book on the Schools' 50th Anniversary (Chefoo, 1931 by S. Houghton, E.B. Harman and M. Pyle). We are particularly grateful to Mrs. Margaret (Alty) Johnson and the C.S.A. Archives for having preserved...”
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“...missionary brethren are here specially mentioned with the story of Chefoo through their association with our mission schools in one way or another. Dr. Hartwell's and Dr. Corbett's children attended these schools as pupils, and later five Corbetts and three Hartwells became missionaries. Dr. Williamson had four grandchildren in the school. It was from Dr. Williamson that the C.I.M. obtained their first property to the west of Chefoo. This property was used for medical mission purposes, and later became the first Preparatory school for our missionary children. In reference to Dr. and Mrs. Nevius, it may be stated that it was their kindness and friendship shown to our lady teachers that endeared them to the C.I.M. in those early days.
One authority whom the writer of this article quotes states that 'The first harbour of importance on the northern coast is Chefoo or Yent'ai." Formerly, Chefoo was the centre of the trade with the Liao-Tung Peninsula, which consisted mainly of agricultural products imported...”
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“...Lyle's Point, was rented from May 26th, 1879. Here under somewhat camping conditions of life, not a few workers were much refreshed by a brief stay at this invigorating seaside port. The value of Chefoo as a site for a sanatorium at once became evident, and in the autumn Mr. Taylor was enabled to purchase land at some distance from the foreign settlement, where in due time buildings were erected.
Earlu Dans in Chefoo
And now, as briefly as we can, we would just sketch the history of our C.I.M. schools here from the very early days away back in 1879. Mr.
4...”
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“...April, 1882, when Mr. Douthwaite reached Chefoo, (afterwards Dr. Douthwaite, who became the honorary medical attendant of the schools at Chefoo) there were fourteen boys and girls in the school and a new building was In course of erection.
In the following year, more land was purchased and a separate school for the boys was erected. That first building, simple in its construction, in which began the justly famous Chefoo Schools of today, was later used as the doctor's house and was in 1916 succeeded by the present foreign hospital and a new doctor's house. Thus, gradually, hospitals, native and foreign, private houses, school after school, and later the new sanatorium, have truly transformed those sunny slopes, that silent shore, into a scene of delightful activity.
The New Bans' School
The C.I.M., through working in one country only, has been able to have its schools upon the field rather than in the Homelands. Next, notice the growth between 1881 and 1896. From a dozen it had increased to...”
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“...helped us
This Foundation Stone is laid to commemorate the Faithfulness of God in connection with the
CHINA INLAND MISSION SCHOOLS
which were founded A.D. 1881 for the education of children of missionaries
The Lord will provide
Beams and Stone Provided for the New Schools
Simultaneously with the erection of the Boys' School, the new Girls' School was being built. The progress of all this building was not so simple as it may appear. Again and again prayer was answered in the supply of funds, for the outbreak of the Japanese war with China had greatly enhanced the cost of materials and thus exceeded the original estimates. The same troubles had caused a scarcity of workmen, while at one time the opposition of the local gentry (with regard to the supply of stone needed for the buildings) became a formidable hindrance.
In connection with the erection of the new schools, certain beams for the roof were needed, but owing to their size, could not be purchased from local dealers. They were therefore...”
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“...Two-Storied. Extension of the Girls’ School
In the year 1907, largely through the generosity of another member of the Mission, a two-storied extension o! the girls' school was commenced, which was ready at the re-opening of the schools in 1908, a brass plate being fixed in the gymnasium:
TO COMMEMORATE THE GOODNESS OF GOD IN GIVING THIS ENLARGED ACCOMMODATION IN ANSWER TO PRAYER.
The Family Hotel
The preparatory school had been transferred from Tongshen in 1899, first to the old boys' school and then to a large hotel known in days gone by as the Family Hotel. This then is the present premises for our preparatory department which again, through the goodness of God in answer to prayer, came into the market in a very remarkable way. This building is very close to the other schools, though not exactly on our Mission compound.
Kulina Preparatory School
It should also be added that since the purchase of the Family Hotel at Chefoo, an additional preparatory school was opened at Ruling near to Kiukiang...”
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“...The Chefoo Magazine
December 1987
Educational Standard
The best testimony to the efficiency of the schools' educational work is the result of its examinations. For several years the College of Perceptors examinations were periodically held at Chefoo, but in 1908 arrangements allowed of the Oxford local examinations being held in preference. A summary of these results will be given on another page towards the close of this article. The number of our former pupils who graduate at English, Scotch, Canadian, and American universities, or who are received as seniors in some of our best home schools, and from there matriculate, shows that Chefoo continues its reputation for thoroughness.
Services cmd Meetings
Naturally, those who read this article on Chefoo would like to know some details regarding services, meetings, etc. In addition to morning and evening worship conducted in the three departments throughout the week, a morning service (during the cool weather) is held at the following churches...”
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“...until the close of the Great War of 1914-18 that it became possible to take definite steps for building a lasting and useful Memorial to the memory of our noble dead who had fallen in that terrible strife. The period known as the Great War was naturally a veiy trying time for a good many missionary parents. From the time that the news of the commencement of hostilities was flashed across the ocean, to the day when the announcement was made that the Armistice was signed, the "Old Boys" of the schools were offering their services.
But we did not wait until we had a Memorial Hall. As soon as possible after we heard our "Boys" were offering their services for King and Country, Mr. Arthur Taylor, who was responsible for the conduct of the Sunday children's service, making all arrangements as to speakers, etc., set various schemes on foot that news should be obtained and given at the service concerning the doings of our lads at the Front. Letters from a boy himself, or one written by a parent...”
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“...April 1924 of the Chefoo Schools Association. Those who were privileged to be present on the occasion of that opening Ceremony will perhaps remember something of the addresses given. If not, I beg to be allowed to give a summary of at least one, as well as a number of facts relating to the furnishing of funds, and the labour and thought expended, which has made this Hall at length an accomplished fact.
Our Chefoo Secretary writes: "All had been hoping and praying for a fine day for the Opening: and one might almost say that the weather when the 4th arrived, was just perfect. At 3.15 that afternoon the three Schools, the Old Boys, and the Old Girls, and the Staffs were all in their appointed positions outside the Main Entrance of the Hall.
Rev. W.R. Malcolm and Mrs. Clinton, who was the Senior Old Girl present, then stepped forward on to the steps of the Main Door. Here Mr. Malcolm handed to Mrs. Clinton the key of the door, saying, "Mrs. Clinton, on behalf of the Schools, I now hand you this...”
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“...in our new Memorial Hall, in contrast to the lighting and the musical instrument used in the schoolroom in former days. These were gifts from friends who wished to show their appreciation of the Schools. "
Then Mr. Coulthard went on to inform us that a clause had been inserted in the contract, that if in the course of building, funds ran out, operations would be stopped. Mr. Coulthard said, "1 rejoice to say that there was no cessation in the building, and everything has been paid for.” The building was erected without a mishap.
It was gratifying to all present on that occasion, that in the absence of Mr. McCarthy (Principal of the Boys' School) that Dr. Judd (acting Principal) should occupy the chair. He with two brothers, as already mentioned, being the first three pupils in the C.I.M. Schools.
After the Anthem:-
Thine 0 Lord is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the Heaven and the Earth are Thine. Thine is the Kingdom, 0 Lord...”
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“...The Chefoo Magazine
December 1987
Foundation Pau
Perhaps the two events which stand out most prominently as far as our Schools are concerned in the year, are what is known as Foundation Day and Exhibition Day. Foundation Day commemorates the laying of the "foundation stone" of the new Boys' School on 15th June, 1896. Every year this event is regularly observed as follows:- a boat race - cricket match - service - afternoon tea - tennis - a concert. Perhaps a short extract from our School paper. The Chefusian. may give readers a good idea of the programme for this important day.
TheBoatRace
This is usually held on the evening of the 14th, weather permitting. For sometime previously visitors to Chefoo would observe groups of boys and girls at different times in boating attire, standing by the various School boats waiting for the arrival of their respective trainers. There are usually two Boys' Crews, Junior and Senior, and also a Girls' Crew. Probably there may be some at any rate, among my...”
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“... of 86 runs, whereas the visitors were dismissed for 74.
The Service
The service, now held in the Memorial Hall, was conducted this year by Mr. Andrew Sen. He spoke of the need of a "foundation, plan, and plumline," applying these to Christ and His word.
Afternoon Tea
This is perhaps the most sociable event of the day. Tables are arranged under the trees in front of the Old Boys' School, and the whole compound assembles at about 3 o’clock for tea and talk. Preparations are made by all three Schools and other friends. Visitors always find a warm welcome and a very nice tea awaiting them. Brothers and sisters mingle freely on this occasion.
Tennis
Selected players, boys and girls, from the present generation compete, and usually there is a final game between pupils past and present. The Chefusian records that great interest centred this year [1929] in the final tournament game. It was a keen struggle with scores 6/3 and 6/5 respectively. At the close, racquets were presented to winners, also...”
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“...The Chejoo Magazine December 1987
rendered to the School during the past year.
The closing Item was the distribution of Bibles to girls leaving School.
Drawing Successes
At this year's Annual Exhibition of the Royal Drawing Society in Guildhall Art Gallery, London, for work sent in by the Public Schools, High Schools, etc., of the British Isles, and the Dominions, the following awards were given for work sent up from the Chefoo Girls' School.
4 Sheets commended 2nd. Class
6 Sheets commended 1st. Class (These were all class work.) 1 Sheet by a former pupil on Chinese Life was awarded the
Bronze Medal.
Girls' Schwl Drill
This year owing to the rain, the girls were somewhat hampered in their drill, but the display was by no means below its usual high standard. If any distinction can be drawn between the different items, the figure-marching was perhaps the outstanding feature. The graceful bearing of the girls, coupled with the dresses of uniform white; with blue sashes, presented a most pleasing...”
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“...The Chefoo Magazine
December 1987
i
»
The Port of Chefoo — Harbour Improvements
Years ago when the C.I.M. was only In its infancy, as far as Chefoo was concerned, parties arriving, either children for the Schools or missionaries coming up to spend the summer at the C.I.M. sanatorium, had to arrive by steamer, lie in midstream, and wait for a Chinese sanpan to convey them and their belongings to the nearest point to the custom house jetty. Sometimes it was necessary to effect a landing on a Chinese boatman's back. In the case of ladies, this was certainly not pleasant. However, by paying extra, the passengers for the compound and their goods could be conveyed to the beach opposite the Boys' School, tide permitting. A carrying chair might be improvised for ladies, the luggage being usually carried ashore on the backs of coolies engaged for the purpose. Loads had to be made up by the one in charge, and then began the battle of wits, and an opportunity of exercising patience. A strong healthy...”
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“...the steamers to Chefoo. These are collected, sorted, and delivered by Chinese postmen. So that any of my readers entering that building might think they were in a London post office, except that you don't ask for a penny and a half stamp for your letter, but a ten cent one (two and a half pence).
Business Department
What a lot that name covers — post office, transport, stores, bakery, laundry, carpenter's shop, and the School Secretary’s office are all included under those two letters B.D. The Schools can buy all their groceries, the children can buy their sweets, some books and toys, the wardrobe keepers can replenish their supplies of various kinds. The various members of the Mission, resident and visitors alike, have also the privilege of buying at the B.D. All the bread used on the Compound is baked now at the Mission bakery, which ensures good clean bread for all. Even your own private Christmas cake can be baked in the Mission ovens. The clothes of the Compound are collected on Monday...”
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“...The Chejoo Magazine
December 1987
in number than that. So it would not be difficult to place the amount of washing as I say at 5,000 pieces per week for close on three hundred children and thirty or forty adults. Fifteen or sixteen washermen are employed In the summer season.
The carpenter's shop keeps four or five men busily employed repairing school furniture, various repairs to the woodwork of the Schools. Then there are numerous windows that will get broken for one reason or another. Painting and repairs to woodwork on a small scale in the grounds of the Compound. Then there are storm windows to be put in in the winter months. When the terrible north winds blow. Oh how those winds howl and shriek around our homes. Then the mosquito doors and windows that must be got into position as soon as the hot weather approaches in June, if we are to be kept free from flies, mosquitoes, etc. There are pictures to frame, and alas even such things as coffins have to be made at times. But our Chinese...”
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“...answered those prayers.
Truly, God has been gracious to us. In conclusion, I will add my own personal testimony to the loving kindness and tender mercies of our God towards us as a family. We would thank God for sixty years of combined service that my wife and I have been enabled to render, for the most part in the Schools. We thank God too for our only daughter. From a small child she attended our Preparatory School, passing from there to the Girls' School. She received a thorough grounding in the matter of her education, so that when we were compelled to come to England on account of my wife's health, our own daughter was prepared to enter one of our good secondary schools here in London, and was successful in obtaining the certificate of the London
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“...The Chefoo Magazine
December 1987
University as a matriculated student. For myself. I can only trust that whatever there is left to me of life, it may be spent for His glory.
So many of our parents have to express their indebtedness first to God, and then to the Mission and its workers in the Schools for the success in college, university, or commercial life of their children. Will my readers join us in regular intercession for the work done among these children at Chefoo. My article will not then have been written In vain. To Him shall be all the glory.
KUUHG
All that was ever ours is ours forever,
Soft greens of pines and bamboo fading never,
Joys of companionship, steep hillsides roaming,
Stream boulder-strewn, rain-filled with torrents foaming: Stone steps, the distant lake, wide stretching plain: Precipitous crags, mist wreathed, obscured again: Azalea-covered slopes, snow-laden trees,
The Ice King's orchard, blooming when mists freeze.
All, all is ours. It is not left behind
Among...”
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