To mark UN International Happiness Day on March 20, we present a photo flashback of “The Optimists” from 1941.

Local historian Isabelle Stubbs described The Optimists as “…a Pierrot Troupe organized in 1941 by Mrs. B. Harvey, sponsored by the Kinsmen, [who] travelled to military camps on the Island to entertain troops and to raise funds for the war effort. They presented a variety program, bright, fast-paced, tuneful.”

Back row, left to right: Sid Williams, Rod Glen, Bill Stubbs, Mrs. Barnett [Edith] Harvey, Jack Reynolds, Reg Kelly, Add Clement. Front row, left to right: Grace Edwards, Pamela Harvey, Rose Hartwig, Margaret Smith, Doris Macdonald.