Nearly all readers know the name David Markin. David’s name is attached to several major structures on campus. Few readers, however, know about his role in assigning the name “O’Connor” to our Head of School residence.
David arrived at CA in 1947 at a time when, to their discredit, many schools did not admit Jewish students. Also attending CA at that time was a young man named George O’Connor, one of 350 World War II veterans who would attend CA between 1947 and 1950, making use the GI Bill.
One day on campus George noticed a group of boys harassing another boy. It was David. Given the distorted spirit of the times, this harassment may have had something to do with David’s Jewish identity, but that is not certain. He approached the group and told them that they would cease their bullying or would have to deal with him personally in a way they would not enjoy. I will leave to the reader’s imagination exactly what language he may have used. George was not a physically imposing figure, but he had survived combat missions in the war and was clearly not intimidated by some high school bullies.
That very moment was the start of a lifelong friendship between David and George. Many years later, upon the occasion of a major contribution to the construction of the Head’s residence, David insisted that the house be named after George O’Connor.
I have shared this story with current students to illuminate the idea that a moment of courage, support, and kindness towards another student in need of help can be transformative in unexpected ways. I will add that George helped the group of bullies, too.
Want to contribute?
Do you have a CA story that illuminates the nature of our great school? If so, please email something in the range of 200-300 words to chip.boyd@cheshireacademy.org.
