THE RECTORY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23577, 13 August 1938, Page 22

THE RECTORY

HISTORY OF INSTITUTION NAME CHANGED TO CAMPBELL HOUSE The school rectory has been a part of the Boys' High School since the very early days, although its career was influenced to a large extent by the same forces which dominated the school itself during that period when all did not run smoothly. In 1886 the Rev. F. C. Simmons, then rector, occupied part of the old school as his residence, and the few boarders were accommodated there. The present building overlooking the school in Arthur street was built in 1875, and the Rev. W. Norrie lived there for some time, thus giving the establishment its name, which it kept until it was named Campbell House. Two years later Mr G. M. Thomson was appointed master in charge, and since then the same system has been followed.

The number of boarders has varied considerably, but until 1913 the rectory was never taxed to its full capacity. In that year there were 29 boarders, but the fiftieth jubilee of the school gave it a great impetus, with the result that the number was swelled to- 40 the following year. There was a steady increase from then on until, a few years later, the total had reached 51, this number being maintained until a few years ago. In fact, on several occasions applications from prospective boarders had to be declined ow-

ing to lack of accommodation. At the beginning of 1922 the Education Department authorised the Board of Governors to take over the control of the establishment, and since that time all financial arrangements have been in the hands of the board. Under the board the rectory v/as brought up to date, the beneficial renovations and alterations were carried out. Mr F. H. Campbell was appointed master in charge in 1909, and he carried on in this position until his retirement in 1934, when the name of the rectory was changed to Campbell House in his honour. He was followed by Mr O. J. Begg, and since 1936 Mr John Williams has been in charge. The formation of district high schools throughout the province did away with the necessity for the rectory to accommodate so many boarders, and of recent years the number has been kept steadily at about 40.

RECTORS FROM 1878