“A porch. That’s all that remains.” This weathered timber structure before you is the St Joseph’s Providence Porch. It’s the sole survivor of Wellington’s longest-running school. It stands as a testament to a rich history. A history stretching back to 1850.
Imagine Bishop Viard arriving in Wellington. He brought with him French Marist Fathers and Sisters. They purchased land in Thorndon. A cathedral a bishop’s residence a convent school and a boy’s school were built. Requests poured in from Maori families. They wanted their daughters educated. Governor George Grey generously offered land. He promised £400 to build a Catholic convent or boarding school. Lady Grey even furnished the building. This school St Joseph’s Providence opened in 1852.
Sister Mary Cecilia McCann initially led the school. She was later replaced by Sister Mary Joseph. Bishop Viard’s rules were strict. Visiting between the convent and the Providence was forbidden. Despite their close proximity. Inspectors praised the Providence. They called it “an ornament to the town” and “one of the most perfect establishments in the colony”.
The Sisters of Mercy arrived in 1861. They took over after the original sisters passed away. A two-storey Gothic extension was added around 1869. It may have been intended for Bishop Viard. The Providence was more than a school. It served as an orphanage and charitable institution. It operated separately from St Mary’s College. Though both fell under St Mary’s Convent. In 1880 parliament changed things. Orphanages were placed under the Education Department. The Providence became St Joseph’s Industrial School.
By 1889 the building was too small. It lacked hot water and had only one bathroom. The attic rooms were unfit for children. The building was demolished and rebuilt around 1890-92. The orphanage moved to Upper Hutt in 1910. The rebuilt Providence was used as residential accommodation for St Mary’s College. It was demolished in 1976. Only the porch remains. It’s a playground shelter now. A shrine for those with connections to the school and convent. This unassuming porch whispers tales of dedication sacrifice and the unwavering spirit of education in Wellington. A legacy etched in wood and time.