How did you become the School Historian?
“I was looking for something to do after my husband’s death. I had worked in private girls’ schools for nearly 25 years, teaching both French and English at the upper school level. I had worked at [Convent of the Sacred Heart] 91st Street and decided to call over to Greenwich to see if they wanted any help. This was in 1993. At Greenwich, I worked as a volunteer in the Advancement Office, writing their newsletter. Having worked at 91st Street, I knew and loved the Sacred Heart ethos, so it was easy to fit in.”
How long have you been working at Sacred Heart Greenwich and have you always worked as the School Historian?
“When the School celebrated its 150th anniversary in 1998, they asked me to coordinate their archives and work on the big event, putting on an exhibit about the history. I did that and then stayed on. I am part-time and write weekly articles, help out with other writing, such as the School history, maintaining the Archives and anything else I can do. I have just finished working on a catalog for the Archives.”
What is your favorite historical fact about the Sacred Heart Greenwich community?
“I have many, but I suppose that I just love the story of my 95-year-old RSCJ friend, who as a very young nun in the 1940’s used to carry a young student who had polio and wore heavy, metal leg braces all the way up the stairs to the third floor of the mansion (Salisbury Hall). That really is something so typical about my experience at Sacred Heart: people helping each other and really living out the love of Jesus Christ. It touches my heart.”
“I have been at the School for 25 years now, and have been working in schools since 1965… a long time! How does time move so quickly? I sometimes wonder. I think it is doing what you love with people you can love and respect. I love the beauty of the school, the kindness of so many, the joy of seeing young people grow and flourish, the presence of a loving God that I feel here. A great place to be!”
The King Street Chronicle thanks Sacred Heart Greenwich’s School Historian Mrs. Victoria Allen for her contributions to “Humans of Sacred Heart.”
Photo by Katie McCabe, News Editor
-Compiled by Katie McCabe, News Editor
Clare Conlin • Feb 8, 2018 at 12:50 pm
“Miss Taylor”, as I knew her back when she was my 9th grade English teacher at 91st Street, was an absolute delight as a teacher (even though she was a hard grader! She gave me my first B.). I’m so glad that current Sacred Heart students can enjoy her wit and wisdom as well.
Miss Katie McCabe, wonderful job on this piece!
Bridey Finegan • Feb 7, 2018 at 6:24 pm
So nice to read about Vicky’s years of dedication to Sacred Heart and to the students in all the schools she taught in since 1965! Congratulations on all your years in Education!
Vicky Allen • Feb 7, 2018 at 8:53 pm
Hi! Miss you, but I love seeing your Facebook posts. Have you tons of snow? We had lots of snow, ice and rain today. No thrill driving home. Love to you and the family.
VictoriaAllen • Feb 7, 2018 at 3:01 pm
Thank you so much. It was such fun being interviewed. I loved it. Stay safe in this horrid weather today