The Nativity

Holland Rockwell Scovell was born at Bishop’s Mills, Grenville County, Ontario, in 1867 and was of United Empire Loyalist descent. After graduating from high school, he attended Model School in Prescott and Normal School in Ottawa. After teaching for several years in the Kemptville area, Mr Scovell attended the University of Toronto and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He continued his teaching career as a private tutor in Midland and it was here that he met his future wife, Polly Ann Ruby. Mr. Scovell came to Bracebridge in 1905 as principal of the Model School, the public school, and the high school. In 1906, he was recognized by the Department of Education and was appointed Inspector of Public Schools for Muskoka, the largest inspectorate in the province. He held this position until his death in 1923.

Polly Ann Ruby was born in Devonshire, England, in 1870 and came to Canada two years later with her family where they settled in Midland, Ontario. It was here that she met and later married Holland Scovell in 1897. There were three children in their family, namely, Leda, Floyd, and Esmond. Leda was born a few years before they came to Bracebridge and her brothers, Floyd and Esmond, were born here. 

Mrs. Scovell was a highly respected member of the community and very active in the work of the church. She was the president of the Ladies’ Aid at the time of her death.