Dr Johnson' Birthday Celebrations
Celebrating Dr Samuel Johnson’s 316th Birthday in Lichfield
On Saturday 20th September, our Senior 5 and Associates were honoured to take part in the celebrations marking the 316th birthday of Dr Samuel Johnson, Lichfield’s most celebrated writer.
The group joined the official procession through Lichfield City Centre, with Niamh - our School Captain representing the school by carrying the ceremonial wreath, which she passed to Deputy Mayor Councillor Rosie Harvey-Coggins, to lay at the foot of the Johnson statue.
Following the wreath-laying ceremony, the students joined members of the Johnson Society in singing hymns, before being presented with special commemorative Johnson coins—a unique memento of the occasion. The group then returned to the historic Guildhall to prepare for the evening’s formal events.
Later that evening, the Senior 5 and Associates attended a three-course dinner at the Guildhall. Niamh and Joanne were honoured to be seated at the top table alongside the Mayor, the Bishop, and the President of the Johnson Society. Joanne was seated next to Lars Tharp— a member of the Society, and a familiar face from the Antiques Roadshow. (Though she didn’t bring anything for him to value, but the conversation was priceless!) Meanwhile, George, Fin, Amelie, Maya, Dani, James and our Headteacher, Mrs Forster enjoyed the evening at another social table.
During the meal, Niamh delivered a thoughtful and well-delivered speech reflecting on Dr Johnson’s education and its enduring influence on students today. The evening also featured the traditional pipe-smoking ceremony, a closing address from the new President of the Johnson Society, Dr Tristram Hunt, and a celebratory toast with punch.
It was a truly memorable occasion for all involved—an opportunity to engage with local history, represent the school with pride, and honour the legacy of one of Britain’s greatest literary figures.
Thank you to Joanne for recapping the day for us, and to Robert Yardley for the photographs.
