Although Tom Patterson, a native of Stratford, is well recognized as the founder of the world renowned Stratford Festival producing live theatre since 1953 in his home town, he always honoured his Grade 11 English teacher at the Stratford Collegiate Vocational Institute as the inspiration behind the idea.
Rose McQueen had arrived in Stratford in 1912 to teach English and History. Tom told the story of Miss McQueen assigning the class an economic project to think of what would sustain the town given the threat of the railway, and furniture industries terminating. It was apparent that her influence, and love of Shakespeare, lit the flame under her student Tom who had not been exposed to theatre.
He was well aware Stratford had streets and schools named after Shakespeare’s characters, along with a river named Avon, but he had not had the opportunity to experience live theatre. However, it was the dedication that Miss McQueen had for Shakespeare’s writings and her teaching skills that inspired the student.
Hence, the idea came about to create a theatre like “the one in Stratford, England.” While many doubted such an idea could come to fruition, Miss McQueen supported Tom and encouraged him continuously through the journey.
Once the theatre became a reality in Stratford, Tom was proud to say it was Miss McQueen who was his inspiration and, therefore, he always made certain there was a ticket for her to enjoy the amazing productions of Shakespeare’s plays here in Stratford.
Rose retired from teaching in 1947and passed away in October 1963 at Avon Crest Hospital. Her house sits at 42 Waterloo Street South in the Historic District of Stratford and is worthy of recognition.
More information on this amazing woman who made a lasting impact on Stratford can be found at Stratford Perth Archives and on the internet by typing her name.
Submitted by Laura Pogson
DID YOU KNOW?

McQueen Court, which runs north off Freeland Drive in south-west Stratford, was named for Rose McQueen, who although best known as Tom Patterson’s English teacher, was involved in many aspects of life in Stratford.
She was born and raised in Elora. Immediately after graduating from high school, she taught there for three years before enrolling in the University of Toronto. She was hired to teach in Stratford upon her graduation, and spent the rest of her life here.
Source: Streets of Stratford