Memories of Kurt Hahn

by John Markham 1948-51

I was pleased to read Professor Hayman's "Memories of Kurt Hahn " in the Spring 2006 issue of the GA Newsletter. It brought memories flooding back. My Great Aunt, who had been very closely involved in the release and escape of Kurt Hahn from Nazi Germany, was a firm believer in all he stood for and his methods of education. I was lucky enough to have my education largely guided by her.

I first went to Schloss Glarisegg on Lake Constance in Switzerland, the school having close contacts with Schloss Salem. Then in 1949 I moved on to Gordonstoun in order to complete my education in the UK. Over the years I became totally committed to the methods of Kurt Hahn. In addition to my happy years at Gordonstoun, I attended two Outward Bound courses at Aberdovey and one at Eskdale. During my last term at Gordonstoun, having passed all my exams, I was lucky enough to spend long periods as 1st mate on the Prince Louis sailing out of Burghead. Later I was to be 2 i/c of the British Army Outward Bound school in Norway.
I got to know Kurt Hahn very well during my time at Gordonstoun; in those days he used to have boys in to breakfast with him and I remember the delicious home made muesli that was always served. I also saw how intensely engaged he could become in a conversation; at one breakfast he became so involved in a discussion that he completely forgot that he was pouring himself some coffee - we boys watched fascinated as the coffee flowed over the rim of the cup into the saucer, thence across the table cloth!! He was always active and one of my fondest memories is of him playing tennis wearing a big "cabbage leaf" hat to keep the sun off his head, so badly injured by the Nazis. He took a great personal interest in my succesful efforts to found the Mountain Rescue Service, which in those early days relied on the tremendous encouragement from RAF Kinloss. One of the most interesting aspects of the student population at that time was the presence of sons of some of those germans who had been involved in the plot to assassinate Hitler.

Hayman's letter brings back memories of staff that I also studied under; one thing that he does not mention was Eric Meissner's considerable painting talents. Like Hayman I have carried Hahn's doctrine through my life - he was a remarkable man and I am sure would be happy to know that the School carries on, and expands on, his beliefs.