Head's Office
The above 1927 photo depicts the Founder, C.W. Lonsdale, sitting at his desk in the headmaster's office in the newly built school building, occupying the south end of the east wing. This office has remained in the same location over the years, the seat of eleven Heads since Lonsdale. It is remarkable to realize that Headmasters (now called Heads) have shared the same view out of these office windows for nearly 100 years.
When renovation of the Main Building began in 2011, the Head-at-the-time expressed wishes for a window in the bookcase-lined wall that would allow a view of the main entrance to the building. When stucco and plaster were removed, it was discovered that such a window was already framed in; it had been part of the architect's original design.
Originally, the Head's office was the location for all administrative activity. It was the "seat of authority," but also where admissions, operations, hiring, fundraising, and bookkeeping were managed. Gradually, more staff were added to take on these specialized roles, and offices created to accompany each role, but since day one, this room remains the place where much thought, planning, collaborating, and correspondence occurs. It has always been the location for discussions with students, staff members, guests, and alumni. And it has also been the site of a few pranks – if only those walls could talk!
A recreation of Lonsdale’s office exists in the School Museum, where the original wall panels and doors are displayed, having been saved from the 2011 renovation. Also, Lonsdale’s original desk was tracked down and included in the display.
The information presented in this write-up is based on current information available in the School's Archives and consultation with key people who have some relevant connection to this "object." If you have further information about this "object" that you would like to contribute, please contact the School’s Advancement Office at alumni@shawnigan.ca.
Originally, the Head's office was the location for all administrative activity. It was the "seat of authority," but also where admissions, operations, hiring, fundraising, and bookkeeping were managed. Gradually, more staff were added to take on these specialized roles, and offices created to accompany each role, but since day one, this room remains the place where much thought, planning, collaborating, and correspondence occurs. It has always been the location for discussions with students, staff members, guests, and alumni. And it has also been the site of a few pranks – if only those walls could talk!
A recreation of Lonsdale’s office exists in the School Museum, where the original wall panels and doors are displayed, having been saved from the 2011 renovation. Also, Lonsdale’s original desk was tracked down and included in the display.
The information presented in this write-up is based on current information available in the School's Archives and consultation with key people who have some relevant connection to this "object." If you have further information about this "object" that you would like to contribute, please contact the School’s Advancement Office at alumni@shawnigan.ca.
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
