James I. Wendell, former Hill master (1913-1928) and headmaster (1928-1952), and 1913 graduate of Wesleyan University, has been selected as one of the first inductees to the newly formed Athletics Hall of Fame at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn. The induction ceremony took place on May 23, 2008 as part of Wesleyan’s reunion weekend.
While at Wesleyan University, Wendell had a successful career, breaking many track records in the process. During his junior year, Wendell took part in the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden, where he won a silver medal in the 110-meter hurdles. Some of his U.S. Olympic teammates included football legend Jim Thorpe and military legend George S. Patton, Jr. Patton’s son would later attend The Hill School while Wendell was headmaster.
James Wendell started working at The Hill in 1913 as an instructor of English and assistant track coach, before becoming headmaster in 1928.