As is rarely the case, today International Metropolis is pleased to present GOOD NEWS for a change. In a complete change of direction from what was announced in 2003, John Campbell public school will be spared the wreckers ball, and will receive a full renovation/rebuilding.
In 2003 if you might recall, provincial funding was acquired to replace three of the cities oldest schools. Begley (since demolished), Benson (next to go) and John Campbell. Of the three schools, arguably the most architecturally important one was John Campbell.
Built in 1926, by the local firm of Shepard & Masson, the school is unique in both its neighborhood presence, and architectural beauty. The plan to demolish it was not well received by the local architectural preservation groups who have been diligently working for the last four years to try and save the building.
Recently there was a change of direction and everyone came together on the realization that the preservation of this important architectural structure was important, and the new plans call for complete rebuilding of a new school within the existing building envelope. Important interior elements like the lobby will be restored to their original grandure, while all the classrooms and hallways will be all new and state of the art.
Last night the local heritage groups, parents groups and neighborhood groups presented to the school board, and there was a vote taken on weather or not to save the building. The vote was unanimous in favor of preservation.
While usually it’s all doom and gloom, kudos to the school board trustees for realizing the importance of the building in the streetscape and in the cultural identity of the city. For once someone didn’t take the easy way out, and John Campbell will endure as a testament to some forward thinking individuals.
Thanks a million!
Great news! I’ve been inside and it is lovely – very typical of so many school of that era. I will always feel very badly about Prince of Wales as we have a personal connection, but I guess all of them can’t be saved and it’s nice that one – at least – of that vintage and architectural style gets to stay. Benson (and the old Begley) aren’t nearly as appealing. (I’ve been inside them too) Unfortunately for the people who have those places in their hearts, that point is probably moot – it must be a great loss for the people who loved those buildings.
Nice to see a quality historical building saved, and even better that it remains a school, so more children will learn in a building that looks like a school instead of an office building.
You mean you don’t want to see another “Talbot Trail” Special go up, Andrew?
Or “Lakeshore Discovery”
Have never seen that one, Andrew, but Googled it out of curiousity. After seeing Discovery, I think I like Talbot Trail now…
Someone translate the motto for me in the third picture?
Fantastic news! Great job by the heritage committee to save this one. I too, am suprised that the vote was unanimous. Could it be that people are actually starting to believe that our past is worth something to preserve?
The latin inscription on the coat of arms comes from the Campbell Clan of Scotland and means “forget not” . Enjoy this site very much.
What’s that?? Windsor has “local architectural preservation groups”??
I was surprised to find that the school was even considered for the wrecking ball. I used to attend it, and it’s been awhile since I’ve been there, but I remember how grand it was. I’m so glad it wasn’t destroyed.