History
On February 1, 1900, the first class of prospective teachers began their studies in the new London Normal School. Coming from diverse backgrounds and communities in southwestern Ontario, they were attending what was considered to be the most modern teacher-training school in Canada. The faculty consisted of Principal Francis Walter Merchant, Vice-Principal John Dearness, and four teachers.
The decision to locate this new school in London was influenced by Premier G.W. Ross, local MPP Colonel F. B. Leys, and Dr. C.T. Campbell, chair of the London Board of Education. They had promoted London as a desirable site owing to its excellent educational facilities, location and size.
In 1898, ground was broken in South London for the third normal school in Ontario. The structure is trimmed with cut stone, and its now weathered brick was once red-orange in colour. A tower dominates its facade. Rising from the roof (originally of slate) are several miniature cupolas, typical of Victorian architecture. The grand staircase is the most striking feature of the building’s interior. Several rare varieties of trees were planted on the grounds, and oaks and maples were later added in memory of deceased members of the faculty, including John Dearness.
In 2005, the London District Catholic School Board moved and in 2014 the City purchased the building. The YMCA now rents the building.
