Judy Howell

 

The Beacon Society supports and recognizes exemplary educational experiences that introduce young people to the stories of Sherlock Holmes. Through its recognition programs and information resources, the Society helps teachers and engages children in the pleasure of reading.

The Beacon Society is a scion society of The Baker Street Irregulars, an international organization of Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts founded in 1934 by Christopher Morley. Past members of note have included Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman. The Irregulars (known as the BSI) meet every January in New York City for a weekend of celebration and study.

A not-for-profit organization, the Beacon Society serves as a link to scion societies, providing teachers with local resources to bring the magic of Sherlock Holmes to life in the classroom.

Why "The Beacon Society?"

A quotation from Sherlock Holmes was the inspiration for the name of the Society. Holmes finds the sight of London's public elementary schools "a very cheering thing" as he and Watson leave the city by train in "The Naval Treaty."

"Look at those big, isolated clumps of buildings rising above the slates, like brick islands in a lead-colored sea. . . Lighthouses, my boy! Beacons of the future! Capsules, with hundreds of bright little seeds in each, out of which will spring the wiser, better England of the future."