Cotmania. Vol. IX. 1933-4

{Architectural Review article}

The work entailed in the amalgamation of the Society of Architects with the Institute was very great, and this task fell largely upon the shoulders of MacAlister. This fusion of the two societies carried with it the obligation to press forward the movement for the legal registration of architects. Here again the burden which devolved upon the Secretary was heavy and difficult. It was spread over eight years and the anxieties and disappointments were many. But, perhaps, the greatest permanent achievement of these twenty-six years has been the creation and development of the whole system of architectural education as it now exists. This has been done by team work and Sir Ian has been fortunate in the men who have been associated with him in building up this solid fabric—patiently, serenely and without controversy. Chairmen of the Board of Education come and go, but MacAlister remains as a permanent elder statesman, with all the knowledge and experience which time and continuity alone can give.
Sir Ian has been the friend and confidante of thirteen presidents, the first of whom was Sir Ernest George. During the presidency of Paul Waterhouse it became customary for the President to attend the annual dinners and meetings of the Allied Societies, wherever and whenever it was possible to do so. MacAlister invariably accompanies his chief, and this interchange of views between the Provinces and Headquarters has made for unification and understanding. On such occasions Sir Ian has, when he can be induced to speak, proved himself to be a good after-dinner orator, but he is an even better listener. By sympathetic listening and by an unselfish and far-seeing devotion to the interests of the R.I.B.A. he has achieved an enviable position—that of a friend of every member of the Institute.

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{Kitson annotation}

The Architectural Review July 1934

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{journal entry}

July 31 1934

[illegible 2 words] writes that he purchased the Cotman [illegible 2 words] of [illegible 1 word] Cathedral and that Walker had sent him [illegible 2 words] questioning Mrs Dawson Turner's letter (18/8) to her husband describing how she took an upper room for Mr C in order that he may work at this drawing with the Camera Lucida undisturbed.