Did you know that, for a number of years, Lawrence House was known as Band House? Anybody who could play an instrument, or was eager to learn how to play, was automatically placed in Band House: Lawrence.

The school band was, therefore, composed entirely of Lawrence House boys. Full members of the band were presented with a badge in the shape of a lyre, (see inset) which was worn on the sleeve. Lawrence House was considerably disadvantaged when it came to the inter-house drill competition (the Cooke Cup), because they were unable to practice the requisite drill movements; all the members of the band would be at band practice while other Houses exercised their routines.

This handicap was recognised by those in authority, and so it was agreed to give Lawrence a start of 10 points on the day of the competition. (It is of interest that this bonus did not help Lawrence House to come higher than fifth place; (there were only five Houses then)! They always accepted their performance in a good, happy, spirit - which all the other houses shared.

Donald F. "Jock" Howie
(Roberts 1921-37)
(From an article in the Old Sanawarian magazine of 2003).