N
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).
N
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.
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permission is strictly prohibited.