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Memorial Schoolhouse Dedication Anniversary: Home

Celebrating 99 years of the  Memorial Schoolhouse at St. George's School

     

Given by the alumni and friends of SG "in commemoration of the men from the school who served in the Great War and in solemn memory of those who fell in that struggle." (Providence Journal, Jan. 13, 1923)

 

Fast Facts:

  • Dedicated on January 13, 1923, by the Rt. Rev. James DeWolfe Perry, bishop of RI, and School Chaplain Rev. James H.S. Fair. 
  • 265 donors gave varying amounts — from 50 cents to $100,000.
  • Construction began in April 1921. From March to June 1922, construction was abandoned due to lack of funds -- then Vincent Astor sent a gift of $70,000 enabling the work to go on.
  • The building cost $280,000.

Original Dedication

Order of Original Dedication Service 

In Memorial Hall:
  • The dedication began with the singing of the School Hymn by all.
  • The Rev. Fair read first from the 127th Psalm and then a short passage from Revelations "about those who die in the Lord."
  • Recitation of the Lord's Prayer by all.
  • A portion of the 84th Psalm read responsively
  • Headmaster Stephen Cabot gives Bishop Perry the keys of Memorial Schoolhouse
  • Bishop Perry remarks
  • Major Melvin Holmes Leonard speaks on behalf of the alumni "... Those men who went from this school to die were fresh from the same studies and same games in which you are now engaged. They went as crusaders when the validity of 'Right' itself was in danger ...."
  • Prayers by the Bishop
  • All sing "Valiant Hearts," an English song
  • The Collect and Benediction
All move to the Study Hall:
  • Address by Headmaster Cabot
  • Tea in the Library of Old School (MCR today)

Trustee Fundraising Letter

Fundraising Letter, Page 1

Fundraising Letter, Page 2

Fundraising Letter, Page 3

1923 Program, page 1

1923 Program, page 2

1923 Program, page 3

1923 Program, page 4