Initial Growth

In 1904, the registered quota of students was increased from 75 to 100, the authorised number for the next half-century. Despite the fact that funds were scarce during the years of waiting for increased government grants, essential building was carried out. The block containing ‘St. Raphael’s’ (principal’s office) and ‘St. Gabriel’s’ with the rooms over them was added to the main building in 1902. An assembly hall and corridor connecting the hall to the central building came next, followed by the students’ ‘bootroom’ - named from the time students were shod, not in shoes, but in buttoned boots.

Passing on the Torch - a History of Mary Immaculate College 1898-1998 (Published 1998), pg 13.