William Booth Memorial Training College (Wellington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids William Booth Memorial Training College |
|
|---|---|
The building in 2014
|
|
| General information | |
| Architectural style | Georgian |
| Location | 33 Aro Street, Aro Valley, Wellington, New Zealand |
| Coordinates | 41°17′46″S 174°46′08″E / 41.29622°S 174.76875°E |
| Current tenants | School of Practical Philosophy |
| Completed | 1913 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | Stanley W Fearn and Austen Quick |
| Awards and prizes | NZIA Gold Medal in 1927 |
The William Booth Memorial Training College is a historic building in Wellington, New Zealand. It is located on Aro Street in the Aro Valley area. The building was finished in 1913. It was named after William Booth, who helped start the Salvation Army. Today, the building is home to the School of Practical Philosophy.
Who Designed This Building?
The William Booth Memorial Training College was designed by two architects. Their names were Stanley W Fearn and Austen Quick. Their design was so good that it won a special award. In 1927, it received a gold award from the New Zealand Institute of Architects. This award shows how important and well-designed the building was.
When Did the College Open?
The college officially opened its doors on April 2, 1914. Many important people attended the opening ceremony. These included the Prime Minister of New Zealand at the time, William Massey. The Minister of Customs, Francis Fisher, was also there.
During the opening, Francis Fisher gave a speech. He said the building was a tribute to William Booth. He mentioned that Booth wanted all money to help people in need. Fisher felt that Booth's spirit made the building special.
Commissioner Richards, another speaker, shared how much the building cost. He said it cost 13,000 pounds to build. More money was needed for furniture and improving the outside areas. This building was part of a larger investment by the Salvation Army. They spent 40,000 pounds on new buildings in just 18 months.
Prime Minister William Massey also spoke at the event. He praised everyone involved in the project. He said the college was a credit to the people who started it. He also thanked the architects and builders. Massey hoped that many future leaders would be trained there. These leaders would continue William Booth's important work.
What Was the Building Used For?
From 1913 until 1982, this building was a training center for the Salvation Army. It was where their officers learned and prepared for their work. In 1982, the Salvation Army moved its training to Lower Hutt.
There was a time when the college had to close. This happened in 1933, during the Great Depression. It closed for one year because of money problems.
Today, the building is used by the School of Practical Philosophy. This group is an educational organization that does not aim to make a profit. The building is also recognized as a heritage building. It is listed on the Wellington City District Plan. This means it is an important part of the city's history.
