The Alfredian

The Alfredian was the school magazine of the Langport Grammar School.  Its first issue was that for Christmas 1901, and the last issue we have is for Christmas 1928, although it probably continued until the school’s closure in 1933.  To read some of the early issues, follow the links at the bottom of this page.  The introduction to the first issue, which explains its name and its ethos, is reproduced below.

The appearance of a School Magazine is certainly, we think, a sign of healthy activity in all departments of School life, because it is the product of an enthusiastic interest in the old School we all love and honour, and will afford a means of promoting the increase of this same enthusiasm in both the work and play of the Scholars amongst themselves.

We bring this Magazine into existence with sincere hopes that success will ever attend it, and that it may become a permanent adjunct of the School. That it may be so—two things are necessary—firstly, that we, as Editors, do our share as well as we can ; and secondly, that you, our readers, render us your full support by kindly criticism, valuable suggestions, and both literary and pecuniary contributions.

Why have we chosen “ The Alfredian ” for a Title ? The reasons, we think, are best set forth in the Article entitled “ ?,” and little need be added by us upon the subject. To all English men and boys the name of Alfred is dear, but to none should it be more dear than to those of the town which possess the School nearest to the place where one of the great originators of our national system of Education, and England’s earliest benefactor in peace and war, found a temporary welcome shelter. Who knows but that it was in Athelney Alfred formulated some of his great schemes by which he ruled our land? Is it not, we ask, fitting that we of Langport Grammar School should perpetuate his memory by dedicating this, our first literary production, to Alfred ?

We shall be glad to receive for publication, any literary contributions from the Scholars, Old Boys, and others, and on you we rely for your support in this matter. We purpose issuing two numbers each Term, although this Term, only one is possible.

O. L’s., i. e., Old Laugportonians will, we trust, find in “ The Alfredian,” a link to bind together the happy memories of past School days, and we hope they will keep us informed of their doings now they have left us, and render us their support, which we claim as our right.

We have received several letters approving of the introduction of a School Magazine, and wishing us success in our new venture. We thank all our well-wishers, amongst whom we are honoured to include several of the Governors of the School, and other influential gentlemen in the District.

Finally it is our intention, and let it be yours, to act to the best of our ability, up to our motto—“ Conemur.”

The Editors.