Edsel Ford High School - Flight Yearbook (Dearborn, MI)

Page 10 text:

THE THORNLEY COURT The Thornley Court, which is located in the B wing of the school, was named for Willard C. Thornley, the first assistant principal of Edsel Ford High School. Mr. Thornley, who was liked and respected by all who knew him, was devoted to nature and wildlife. He contributed freely of his own time and money to the development of the B court area. Upon his death in 1963, this area was formally dedicated to his memory. There are over fifty varieties of trees and shrubs in this court. Many of them have been donated by student groups, individuals, and business establishments. Some of the shrubs were also purchased from gift certificates after Edsel Ford won several City Clean-up Contests. Perhaps most noticeable in the court are the many beautiful fowl, all of which have been donated by students and other contributors. The birds nest in the court, and every spring the court features new generations of wild fowl. The birds roost in the trees or in the shelter at night, and swim in the pond by day. They are a constant source of interest to the students, staff, and visitors. The maintenance of the court and the care and feeding of the birds is assumed by the biology classes, other interested students and members of the maintenance staff, under the direction of Mr. Herman Boatin. It is through their untiring parience and devotion that the area has flourished and grown. Of all the traditions at Edsel Ford High School, the Thornley Court is one of the most beloved.