People from Clarenville & Shoal Harbor: Robert James Horwood; By Newfoundland.ws

Robert James Horwood was born in Twillingate in 1906. He taught school in Clarenville from 1938 to 1940, He also taught in; Pilley's Island, Herring Neck, Twillingate, Port Blandford, Grand Bank, and Bonavista.

Mr. Horwood finally settled back in Clarenville in 1951 with spouse Madge Adams, son Hugh and daughter Roberta [Mercer]. He was Principal of the old Central School until the new High School opened in 1957. He continued as Principal of the Regional High School from 1957 to 1961, when a chronic throat condition forced him to retire. Because of his dedication and commitment to education in Newfoundland in general and Clarenville in particular, by popular demand, the name of the School was changed to "Horwood Regional High School".

The Grade 11 class of 1963 produced the school's first ever yearbook, and dedicated it to him. In that book, Mr Horwood was kind enough to give us his final, full page, "pep talk". He ended by reminding us, "building on your High School experiences, you can be ready to face the future with courage and confidence. The challenge to you is astounding. In humility I ask you to accept that challenge, and be a credit to your home, your school, and your community".

After retirement Mr. Horwood stayed in touch with the education system by writing religious books for elementary grades. He was active in the mid sixties, visiting schools all over the island, as a representative of The Grolier Society. Mr. Horwood passed away in 1970. His deep concern for every student in the High School earned him a special nickname [never called to his face], to us he was, and will always be, affectionately known as, "Uncle Bobby".

From: Horwood High Reunion 2006 Website