In 1937, the Very Reverend Father Superior, Father Cuthbert Smith, SDS, the headmaster, asked a former president of the present Association to compile a list of Old Boys. For some months this gentleman cycled many miles and eventually from a house to house check sufficient Old Boys were unearthed (this term is used literally:) to warrant the first re-union Supper being held at the Odeon, Wealdstone, on Saturday, 15th January, 1938.
It was at this function that the word "ASSOCIATION" was first used publicly in connection with the Old Boys, although it can be said it was synonymous with those boys leaving in 1928.
Encouraged by this last effort, the Old Boys really set to work, and the writer, then nineteen years old, was impressed by the sumptuous repast at the Re-union Supper and Dance held at the Rest Hotel, Kenton, on 9th March 1939 (tickets 5s 6d.!!)
After that highly successful function, where the names of the first Old Boys were mentioned with the respect due only to the "famous", these worthies looked to 1940. But, the outbreak of World War 2 forced them to postpone their plans, and, although the new cricket section, formed in January 1942, valiantly endeavoured to keep the flag flying, the Association as then known had to be discontinued for the duration from September 1943 owing to National duties.
Throughout the war years, the Old Boys kept in touch with the College, and it was with great sadness we learned that so many of our friends had given their lives for a great cause. We honour their memory in our Remembrance Book which is to be dedicated shortly. Their names will be Indelibly inscribed in this book, and as each Old Boy joins the Association so his name will be added under "Members Index" of this book. A lasting personal tribute will become a living memorial.
In 1947 the Association entered its present phase when an Old Boy, closely linked with the College teaching staff, wrote to a number of us in an effort to reform the Association. He succeeded, and on 1st September, 1947, after considerable organisation the OLD SALVATORIANS' ASSOCIATION, staffed and supported by the oldest and newest Old Boys, began to progress. Now, on the 1st September 1951, there are approximately 250 members. In addition 100 Old Boys, who have not as yet requested to join us officially, receive regular news of our activities.
Whilst the Association was busy reforming, the cricket section was doing likewise, and on completion linked up and became the OSA Cricket Section. In September a Hockey Section was speedily formed and has proved a worthy younger brother to the Cricket Section.
From the outset in 1947 a News Letter Service was installed by our first Hon Secretary and has been faithfully promulgated by our present Honourable Gentleman. In 1948 an Annual Dinner and Dance was inaugurated with a success equalled by each subsequent occasion. Dances have been held and have always proved a social success. We even produced a Smoking Concert one year - remember? As for our Christmas Draws, where could one find a better wangle! Altogether, we have held 30 social functions since 1947, and over 60 Main Committee meetings.
This year we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the College, which was founded on September 18th, 1926. We therefore sincerely congratulate the founders and those who contributed to its success throughout twenty-five years, and so made this congratulation possible from the Association of its Old Boys. We gratefully say - "A truly great effort".
As an Association we have wonderful plans for the future. We are walking now. Will you help us to run a little by giving us your support? Always remember the code of the Old Salvatorians is to help our younger brothers at the College and one another. We heartily thank all those ladies and gentlemen who have given valuable time to further the aims of the Association - they have done a good job of work. May God bless you all.
DEO DUCE
D A B 1951