In 1949, while building a cottage on an island in
Lake Nipissing, Ontario, Eileen and Fred Richardson had a vision in which
penmen could get together and share techniques and ideas not just about
doing fine penmanship, but teaching the art as well. The following year
a group of master penmen met at Lake Nipissing and formed a group called
the International Association of Master Penmen
and Teachers of Handwriting (IAMPTH). In 1973, the
letter 'E' was added to recognize the contributions of engrossers
and remains as we know it today, IAMPETH.
Those present with the Richardsons were their mentor, J.J. Bailey
of Chicago, H.J. Walter of Chicago, Charles Begin of Quebec City, Rene
Guillard of Evanston, IL, and Enrique Benguria of Cuba. This group's main
interest was to find a way to restore penmanship in schools and improve
the handwriting of young people.
Since that first gathering on Lake Nipissing, the organization has met
every year, attracting both young and old alike who share the love of
calligraphy, engrossing and beautiful penmanship.
Here are some historical photos from some of the early IAMPETH conventions.
Pictured are past President P.Z. Bloser (Zaner-Bloser), E.A. Lupfer of
The Zanerian College, Louis DiGesare and Mrs. F.B. Courtney (wife of the
late pen wizard). Click on the photos for a full-size image.
Second Annual Meeting in Ottawa, Canada - July 1951
The banquet was interesting and very successful.
E.A. Lupfer (left) and E.H. Fearon (right)
P.Z. Bloser demonstrates as Lyons, DiGesare,
and others look on.
A group at Geneva examining scrapbooks. From the left:
Louis DiGesare, Jr., H.J. Walter, P.Z. Bloser, E.F. Edel
Those who attended the convention enjoyed informal
gatherings between regular sessions. From the left:
Rene Guillard, L.A. DiGesare and son, Mrs. F.B. Courtney,
E.H. Fearon, P.Z. Bloser, E.F. Edel
The historical P.R. Spencer monument in the
Geneva cemetery. From the left: DiGesare,
Guillard, and Fred Richardson
Thanks to Dr. Joe Vitolo for allowing us to link to the
biographical pages at
www.zanerian.com
Copyright
IAMPETH All rights reserved.
