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knox grammar school

CENTENARY STORIES

From three to 12: inside our House system

In 1926 the first Knox Houses were created – School House for the boarders and North House and South House for the day boys. Day boys who lived to the south of the School belonged to South House and those to the north to North House. By 1947 there were four Houses and by 1977 there were 12 Houses, which continue today.

MACNEIL HOUSE

In 1953, the name of School House was changed to MacNeil. It is named after the School’s first Headmaster Neil Harcourt MacNeil. He guided the School through its beginnings and the Depression, and set a strong tone and standards which are still followed today. Colour: black.

REID HOUSE

In 1953, the name of North House was changed to Reid. It is named after Andrew Reid, School Founder and benefactor. His philanthropy included the original Reid building, which contained a carpentry and metal workshop, art room, lecture theatre, armoury and storeroom. Colour: Yellow.

MCILRATH HOUSE

In 1953, the name of South House was changed to McIlrath. It is named after William McIlrath, one of the Founders, an original benefactor of the School and member of School Council. A bequest by his wife, in his name, was used to build the chapel. Colour: Dark Blue.

GILLESPIE HOUSE

Established in 1947. It is named after Sir Robert Gillespie, one of the School’s Founders and benefactors. Sir Robert was the first School Council Chairman and his bequests include MacNeil House and the original Preparatory School classroom block. His extended family were also benefactors with a strong involvement in the School. Colour: Maroon.

ADAMSON HOUSE

Established in 1955, it is named after John Adamson, member of School Council. He devoted extensive time to the School. Colour: Dark Green.

ANGUS HOUSE

Originally established in 1955 and then re-established in 1977. It is named after Reverend Dr Samuel Angus, a long-serving member of the School Council. Colour: Brown.

TURNBULL HOUSE

Established in 1955, it is named after Alex E Turnbull, a foundation member of the School Council. He was devoted to the interests of the School and entrusted with checking the accounts for submission to the Council for payment. Colour: Light Blue.

MCKENZIE HOUSE

Established in 1970. It is named after Dr T Ross McKenzie, the fourth Headmaster of the School 1956-1969. He was part of a time of great consolidation and success for the School, particularly in academic and cultural achievements. Colour: Orange.

MURDOCH HOUSE

Established in 1970. It is named after Alan May Murdoch member of the School Council 1938-1970 and Chairman 1955-1970. He worked closely with Headmaster McKenzie to ensure the smooth running of the School. Colour: Red.

MONTGOMERY HOUSE

Established in 1977. It is named after J Ross Montgomery, a generous benefactor and member of the School Council 1953-1969. His generosity provided the Montgomery Building, Gilmore House, and numerous smaller benefactions including the bronze chapel doors. Colour: Lime Green.

SINCLAIR HOUSE

Established in 1977. It is named after George M Sinclair, a member and Chairman of School Council. He provided strong leadership to the council during his tenure. Colour: Purple.

BRYDEN HOUSE

Established in 1977, it was named after Dr William Bryden, the second Headmaster of the School during the war years 1939-1953. Student numbers rose steadily during his time. Colour: Grey.

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Contribute to the Heritage Centre

Leave your mark and continue the legacy by donating memorabilia and photographs to the School. Email archives@knox.nsw.edu.au for more info.