By Doreen Marion Gee

"The challenge was issued by the culprit, 'Come and get it!' Mr. Ross proceeded to do so and was greeted with a 'roundhouse right' to the jaw!" Darrel E. Nute describes a "lout" who grabbed a basketball from a teacher, and then punched him when he tried to retrieve it. This anecdote about life at South Park School in the 1930's is one of many entertaining and fascinating pieces of history in a new book about that community icon. "South Park School - Memories Through the Decades" by Debbie Marchand and Linda Picciotto is a treasure chest embedded in the roots of James Bay. The two teachers ( one retired ) dedicated two years to this project. South Park School is born again in this collection of personal stories and historical facts that span over a hundred years. The " launch" of this book on February 20, 2008 was like a rocket in reverse as we all travelled back in time. It was a chance to celebrate the legacy that is South Park School.

The well-researched book is a cornucopia for history buffs. It takes us back to 1894 when South Park School was built, describing its construction. We travel with the authors through the early years and first principal. The memories begin in 1900 with a 'doomsday' prophecy. Fred Ward, along with his friends, ran to a high spot in Beacon Hill Park, to see if an erupting Mt. Baker signaled Armageddon. Carol James wrote about her student days when she carried out her first political protest. The book weaves personal memoires through all the decades until 2006, ending each chapter with intriguing "facts and events" about South Park, Victoria, and the world at that time. It is replete with vivid photographs of all the classes and sports teams over the years. The book captures history and the transformations in our educational system. South Park School went from being a place of strict discipline, darkened by the 'strap,' to a Family Co-operative School, banning corporal punishment. The trip through time ends with "It has been a marvelous journey."

The book launch on Feb. 20, 2008, was a fun-filled event and there was a large turnout from the community, including many former teachers and students. Picciotto and Marchand gave a talk to a packed room about the history of the school. They talked about lean times in the early days, when staff had to choose between heat and light in the classrooms. Guest speakers filled our ears with heartfelt stories of their time at the old school. The oldest alumnus there was Hubert B. Smith, at age 92. He played a "march" on the piano, recapturing his school days between 1928 and 1931. Eric Jordan spoke about his positive experience at South Park in the 70's and 80's, where "the teachers gave the pupils the confidence to pursue their dreams and do what they love." He seems to be a living example: Jordan is a successful young entrepreneur, forming a very profitable computer company that he sold to IBM.

Afterwards, Picciotto and Marchand signed books for eager buyers. They advised me that if anyone wants to purchase a copy ($20.00) in the next months, they can buy one at the school or contact Picciotto at (250) 598-3450 or her email: lindapicciotto@shaw.ca. Both authors want to acknowledge Victoria City Hall and the Victoria Foundation who provided them with grants to help with the costs of their book project. I asked them what stood out in their years at South Park School. Among other things, they both stressed how enjoyable it was to work with the parents and to have them in the classroom. This collaboration with the families helped to facilitate the children's learning process.

As a former South Park student, I recall a simpler time and a different world. The book is about a school that helped shape the life of many people. It is also about history, sliced and frozen, where you can still see a sunny basketball court with a student facing off with a teacher.

Photo by Barry Behnke