History of Riverside Consolidated School

RCS before completion in 1905

At the turn of the century, "consolidation" of rural schools was an educational movement being promoted all across Canada. By building a large central school with well-educated teachers and better equipment, the children in outlying rural communities would receive the same educational advantages as children who lived in larger centres.

In 1903 New Brunswick passed legislation encouraging the establishment of consolidated schools. The Honourable Abner Reid McClelan, a resident of Riverside who was a former lieutentant-governor of the province provided the thrust to build such a school by donating $5,000 towards its construction. The province paid $1,000 and the remaining $14,000 was paid by local taxpayers.

In July of 1904 construction of the school began on a rise of highland on the left bank of the Shepody River, between the villages of Riverside and Albert. the architect, Watson Reid of Riverside, supervised the construction of the three storey wooden building with its foundation of freestone in Midway and New Ireland.

When Riverside Consolidated opened in September of 1905, 225 students filed through the doors and experienced the most modern facilities available at the time. The school had five departments and a staff of seven teachers. The Albert County Grammar School was one department, enabling students to prepare for University Matriculation. The other departments included Household or Domestic Science, manual Training, Agriculture and School Gardening. Everyone was enthusiastic about the potential of the new school and many residents donated equipment and library books.

RCS -- early 1900's

Although classes began in September 1905, the formal opening ceremony took place June 15, 1906. The New Brunswick Premier Tweedie, Chief Superintendent of Education, J.R. Inch and many other officials arrived by way of the steamer "Wilfred C." at the Riverside Wharf. There they were met by Honourable A.R. McClelan and the drum and bugle of Albert performed. 

In the years since 1905 the Riverside Consolidated School has indeed provided a sound education. Former students include a Prime Minister of Canada, leaders in all professions and occupations and most importantly - respected community citizens. Many changes to the school have occurred since the Riverside-Albert area was a bustling commercial centre. However, some things have not changed. The school still stands on its original location, looking much the same as it did in 1905 and Riverside Consolidated School is still committed to providing the best educational opportunities possible to the students who enter its doors!

Domestic Science Room

On June 12, 1997 a plaque was unveiled that now designated the Riverside Consolidated School as a "historic building".

The Riverside Consolidated School is New Brunswick's oldest consolidated school to be still in continuous use.

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