Donated By: Staff of the Stratford Normal School & Stratford Teachers Association
First Presented: 1930
Criteria: Highest Average Score in 3 or more Elementary School Vocal Classes

James Bottomley, A.R.C.O. (Associate of the Royal College of Organists) of London was a native of Dewsbury, Yorkshire, England where he was recognized as 'a choir leader and organist of great ability'.

He came to Canada in 1906 and in 1908 he joined the staff of the Stratford Normal School where he was the instructor in vocal music. He was also the music supervisor for the public schools in Stratford. He held these positions until his 'untimely death' in 1925.

His picture in the Normal School's yearbook was accompanied by this quote:

"I thank you for your voices",

"Your most sweet voices" (Wm. Shakespeare)