Orts and Naughts

A superb manuscript book recording events at Burlington House Girls High School, Spring Grove, Isleworth, Hounslow from 1887-1890, with most of the materials produced by students. The school was established by Medina Griffiths (1840-1927) in September 1886. In an essay, printed and placed in the back of the book, she details her views on education and states: "I would have girls placed on an equality with boys so far as educational advantages are concerned… I would have girls stand in the foremost ranks of learning". She was witty and musical, and though at times caustic and frightening, she was adored by a vast number of her pupils.

Griffith's personality clearly permeated the school, resulting in the lively students' work bound in Ort and Naughts, including cartoons, original poetry and comic writing alongside accomplished art and trompe l'oeil work. A number of the event programmes bound in are hand printed and painted. Records of her pupil's names and examinations included, and a carefully decorated page celebrates three marriages.

Red cloth bound with beautiful, intricately carved wooden panelling at front and rear. 33.5 x 23 x 5. Unpaginated, 120 pages with an additional 7 brochures and event programmes of various sizes bound in. A neatly presented, clean, and complete work in well preserved condition.