This series of Representative Group images from the Archive offer much information to the viewer. Although not a complete collection the Archive contains images from 1897 to 1956. Traditionally taken every year the intention was to demonstrate the diverse range of Epsom life that the students could partake in. We can see academic success normally at the centre of the image embodied by the Head Prefect. Multiple sports including hockey, rifle shooting and fencing are often represented. A member of the OTC (Officer Training Corp) is always visible in support of the advanced training for the Armed Services that was available.
The images are a wonderful dip into the history of uniform worn during the day and on the sports pitch. The striped jerseys are still a familiar feature of today’s uniform. These images also trace the changing shapes and sizes of sports equipment particularly of hockey sticks and tennis racquets. The changing fashion in sports is also present with a Fives sportsman included in the early images but as the popularity of the sport waned so did the inclusion in the photos.
