Gentlemen, gather ’round! The story of Vancouver College begins not with bricks and mortar, but with a vision. This all-boys Catholic school was born from the shared dream of Archbishop Timothy Casey, Fr. William O’Boyle, and Brother Jerome Hennessy.
Vancouver College’s story began in 1922. Four Christian Brothers arrived from Ireland. They were Brothers Jerome Lannon, Patrick Keane, Vitalis Reid, and Claver Murtagh. They were ready to establish a Catholic all-boys school. Imagine them stepping off the boat ready to shape young minds.
Classes started on September 5th. Ninety-one boys from Grade 4 to First Year High School filled four classrooms. These classrooms were at St. Mary’s Hall. Brother Lannon, the founding Principal, set the tone. He focused on the spiritual, academic, cultural, and athletic well-being of his students.
The early days of Vancouver College were quite humble. But the school grew quickly. In 1923, the school presented its first theatrical production. It was Shakespeare’s Macbeth at the Orpheum Theatre. A bold move for a young school.
Realizing they needed more space, the school purchased ten acres of land in Shaughnessy Heights in 1922. In 1924, Lannon Hall was built to accommodate 360 boys. The school held its first classes there in 1925. Vancouver College was settling into its new home.
James McCormack donated funds to build McCormack Hall. It opened in 1926. He famously said he believed the school would teach boys their duty to God, their fellow man, and their country. The first yearbook came out in 1927. It captured life beyond the classroom.
In 1938, American-rules football was introduced. It quickly became a central part of the school’s identity. The Fighting Irish were born. Then disaster struck in 1946. A fire broke out on the top floor of McCormack Hall. No one was hurt. However, the damage was extensive.
Vancouver College has a proud sporting history. The Fighting Irish have won the BC provincial title several times. The school also has an amicable rivalry with St. George’s School. This culminates in the annual Saints-College basketball series.
The school has three separate schools under one roof. This includes elementary, middle, and senior schools. Vancouver College aims to develop each student’s social conscience. They provide opportunities for meaningful service with local and global communities.
Vancouver College is known for its spiritual program, outstanding academics, and extra-curricular activities. The Religious Studies program is at the core of the curriculum and life of the school. Graduates are expected to leave as better men.
Vancouver College has undergone many changes since its humble beginnings. It remains committed to its mission. It is to educate boys and young men in the tradition of Blessed Edmund Rice. The school is a popular spot for filming. This is perhaps a testament to the enduring beauty of its campus.
So, as we stand here, remember the vision, the fires, the victories. Vancouver College is more than just a school. It is a legacy. A legacy that continues to shape young men.