Stowe Legends of the Roxburgh Era

In 1923, the foundation of Stowe as a Public School saved a fine eighteenth-century mansion from demolition and the surrounding landscape gardens from being built upon or farmed. Stowe Legends tells of a host of intriguing characters who, under the inspirational headmaster J.F. Roxburgh, set about making a success of the ambitious new school that had inherited a grand, but somewhat down-at-heel home.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

The establishment of Stowe as a public school in 1923 was a pivotal moment that prevented the demolition of a magnificent eighteenth-century mansion and the transformation of its surrounding landscape gardens into urban development or agricultural land. This preservation effort ensured the preservation of a significant piece of history and the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Stowe Legends, a captivating narrative, unveils the stories of a diverse group of individuals who, under the visionary leadership of headmaster J.F. Roxburgh, embarked on the challenging task of transforming the newly inherited grand but somewhat dilapidated school into a successful institution. This remarkable tale offers a unique perspective into the daily life of the school during the Roxburgh era (1923-49), narrated from the viewpoints of numerous prominent characters. Among these notable figures are novelist T.H. White, Shakespearean scholar G. Wilson Knight, and Stowe's glamorous first woman teacher, Doreen Watt.

Throughout the narrative, the common thread that connects the lives of these individuals is John Fergusson Roxburgh, an astute and influential figure who adeptly presided over the intricate tapestry of Stowe. His unwavering dedication and ability to navigate the complexities of the school's development ensured that despite various challenges, the groundbreaking educational ambitions of 1923 would firmly take root in the unique Arcadian setting of Stowe.

The establishment of Stowe as a public school in 1923 marked a significant turning point in its history, preserving not only a magnificent architectural heritage but also the surrounding natural beauty. It stands as a testament to the enduring value of education and the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.

Dimension: 246 x 189 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805141884