Northfield School’s legacy continues to shine
Northfield School’s journey began in 1882 with a group of like-minded individuals who recognized the growing need for an educational center in their community. They came together to establish the first school, choosing the site located at SE 22-7-16 for this important endeavour.
The initial building plans for Northfield School were ambitious yet foundational. Only the highest quality lumber was approved for construction, and tar paper was used under the shingles on the roof. A brick chimney was also included in the design.
The estimated cost of the school, which included labour, was around $1,000.
Before opening the school, a teacher was hired, and by 1885, the school had an average attendance of approximately 29 students.
Over the years, Northfield School underwent several changes and improvements to accommodate its growing student population. Key developments included the installation of a well, the addition of a new outhouse, and the purchase of important educational resources such as a blackboard, a world globe, and desks. The expanding number of students necessitated enlarging the school, which was accomplished as well.
In 1892, an inspector praised Northfield School as one of the finest in the province, prompting a surge of teacher applications eager to take up positions there. The school also added a stable in 1908, a decision many believed was long overdue.
Throughout its history, Northfield School transitioned to coal heating, planted trees in the yard, and installed fencing, among other initiatives.
In 1915, $10 was allocated for library books, aligning with the educational laws of the time.
Tragically, in 1933, the original Northfield School, a cherished institution in Manitoba, was destroyed by fire. In the aftermath, discussions began about the school’s future. It was decided to temporarily move in an existing structure until a new school could be built. However, this temporary replacement also succumbed to flames in June of the same year.
After much deliberation, the community chose to rebuild a new school on the same site as the original. In the interim, classes were held in a private home while the new construction took place.
The new Northfield School was completed at a cost of $2,300 and served the community well until 1960, when it was closed. At that point, students were bussed to Wawanesa for their education.
Despite its closure, the building was in good condition and sold to the community, which repurposed it as a community center.
In May, 1995 the school was designated as a Municipal Heritage site.
Years have passed, but Northfield School’s legacy continues to shine brightly!
PHOTO CAPTION: Built around 90 years ago to replace the original school built in 1882, the Northfield School is a municipal heritage site and a testament to the pioneers of the area. PHOTO BY SUZANNE PADDOCK
