Memories unearthed: BCS gets rare archive photos from 1887

Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, recently got some rare archive photos that were taken by famous Indian photographer Raja Deen Dayal in 1887. These were returned to school after several years, and show a community of boys and teachers looking relaxed, with pets and sports kits pictured in some. BCS director Simon Weale said: “This find is a precious window into the life of this school in the 19th century. The images raise wonderful questions about the lives these boys went on to lead and these also add another layer to the rich history of the school. We are very grateful to Dr Bhalaik for making this extraordinary discovery.” “The Headmaster of the school at the time was the Rev E A Irons MA (1887-1901). The photos were probably taken near the back of the Headmaster’s Lodge at the school in Shimla,” the director added.

“The recently discovered archive photos of Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, were discovered thanks to Old Cottonian Dr Vijay Bhalaik, who discovered these at the Cleveland Museum of Art, USA,” he said.