Identity area
Reference code
Miscellaneous/Box 16/SM5
Unique identifier
Title
Date(s)
- 1931-38 (Creation)
Level of description
Item
Extent and medium
1 autograph book + photograph
Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
Born in Cambridge in November 1923, Peter attended St John's College Choir School from 1931 to 38 and became Head Chorister. He began work as a junior clerk at the age of 14. After service in the RAF during WWII, he trained in accountancy and pursued a career in local government, before becoming Estates Bursar at King's College, Cambridge. He served as Assistant Bursar there from 1975 until his retirement in 1986.
Repository
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Deposited by SJC Choir Administrator ca. 2018.
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Autograph book, inscribed on the first leaf 'P. M. Rix Smith, 22 Selwyn Road, Cambridge', dating from his time as a chorister at St John's. Contains autographs of Ralph Vaughan Williams, apparently obtained on a visit of the composer to the College in May 1935, sporting heroes including cricketer Jack Hobbs and the Scottish international R.C.S. Dick, and the BBC announcer A.S. Hibberd. Contains drawings, photographs, and cuttings, as well as signatures and messages. Accompanied by a reproduction of a photograph of P. M. R. Smith as a young man, taken by Ramsey & Muspratt.