About
Billy Brooks' Letter to Parents
This letter was penned by a very homesick nine-year-old boy in September 1925. Shawnigan Lake must have seemed a million miles away from Billy’s home in Vancouver. In those days, boys would know that the first opportunity to go home would be at the end of term at Christmas, after four months at School. Certainly, this young boy's experience is not unique; through the decades, many students and parents have experienced the pain of separation expressed in this letter, especially in September when goodbyes are fresh and the new, unfamiliar surroundings are daunting. It is very encouraging to know that Billy did adjust – and stayed at the School for six full years. A framed version of this letter hangs in the Museum and reminds us of the courage it takes for some to leave home to attend a boarding school.
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 Pacific Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
