Woodbrooke, 1903-1953. A Brief History of a Quaker Experiment in Religious Education (review)

48Bulletin of Friends Historical Association schools in England firmly established, he covers the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in the areas of cost, staffing, curriculum, school government, punishment, "guarded" education, and co-education. The next to last chapter carries the story from 1918 to the present time and touches on all the above-mentioned areas. This method of presentation enables one to refer easily to a particular aspect of Friends' education in England, but unfortunately (for this reviewer ) makes the volume less readable than might otherwise be the case. It is hoped this does not interfere with others' enjoyment of the book, for it is well worth careful reading. Individuals interested in present-day Friends' education will find a fund of background data affording considerable insight into many current Quaker school practices. Several of the American Quaker secondary schools have their roots in the English experience. The fact that the reviewer is directly associated with one of these institutions made the reading of this volume doubly interesting. For one who is looking for answers to the question, "How did we get this way?" Stewart has much documentary evidence. The traditional Friends' attitude toward music, for instance, has only changed by slow degrees. In the 1830's "whistling was considered next door to swearing." Even by 1880 many still felt that training in music would corrupt the meeting for worship. However, English Friends' schools mostly included it in their curricula soon after this time. Other aspects of the "guarded" education are equally well covered. The Puritan mind had crept into Quaker thought and practice near the beginning. Gradually during the nineteenth century school officials relaxed the severity of their discipline on such items as speech and dress. Students were allowed more freedom in contact with other young people their own age. Virtue does not consist in having never been tempted but in overcoming temptations that naturally come to us. Friends Boarding School,MORRIS L. KlRK Barnesville, Ohio Woodbrooke, 1903-1953. A Brief History of a Quaker Experiment in Religious Education. Edited by Robert Davis. London: The Bannisdale Press, 1953- 191 pages. 10s. 6d. Every old Woodbrooker will discover upon reading this Jubilee publication that his particular experiences while a student at Woodbrooke are vividly recalled to memory. The first four chapters are written by Herbert G. Wood. They deal with the origins of Woodbrooke; the personality and contributions, both intellectual and spiritual, of J. Rendei Harris, its first Director of Studies; and the development of the life and spirit of this "place where, it is hoped, Friends and those associated with them may have the opportunity of more fully qualifying themselves, spiritually, intellectually and experimentally for any service to which they feel called." H. G. Wood tells also of the difficulties experienced at Book Reviews49 Woodbrooke during the first World War and the ways in which these were met and overcome. One is impressed by the fortitude and adaptability of students, lecturers, and staff during this war period. Also during this time the decision was made to add to the established courses on Bible Study, Church and Quaker History, and Economics, a course on "The Christian in his Relation to Modern Social and International Problems." The remaining ten chapters of this 191-page book were each written by a different individual. This variety of authorship has resulted in some repetition of historic events, especially relating to the establishment and work of the Selly Oak Colleges. However, the variety in style and emphasis , which is inevitable when so many authors are involved, gives an added interest, especially as these writers are well-known and loved by many old Woodbrookers. The book is of interest not only to those who have been privileged to spend some time at Woodbrooke but it has value for all who from time to time feel the need to withdraw to some place where, in a homelike environment with friendly persons of both sexes and various nationalities, one can seek through prayer, meditation, study, work, and play to find the reality of a God of love, in whose service is found the enduring incentive to a happy and fruitful life. Swarthmore, PennsylvaniaAnna Griscom Elkinton The People Called Shakers...