Caswell School

Description of the Historic Place

Caswell School is a large, elaborate three storey brick building built with a central tower. Constructed in 1911, the school is located in the neighbourhood of Caswell Hill at 204 30th Street West. The school reflects a Collegiate Gothic style of architecture that was common in schools built in the Pre-World War I era.

Heritage Value

Designed by David Webster, Caswell School was named for R. W. Caswell, an honoured pioneer of the Saskatoon community. It was built on the same piece of property that he had farmed when he arrived in the area in 1883, and it was R.W. Caswell that provided the 1,350 pound bell for the school. Caswell School featured modern elements including slate blackboards, a fire alarm and a programmed clock system. By 1916, enrollment pressures resulted in the construction of an additional room to increase capacity. Activities in the school were varied. During World War I for example, St. John Ambulance lectures were held for the public and the school was used as a polling station on many election days.  During World War II, students worked through their Red Cross Societies to assist in the war effort.

Caswell School, along with others built in the same extravagant style and period, represents an important chapter in Saskatoon's history and remains as an elaborate memorial to Saskatoon's educational heritage. Extensive interior renovations to Caswell School were completed in 1983. The building’s exterior however, has remained largely unaltered with the exception of the removal of the bell tower and the dormer windows.

Source: City of Saskatoon Built Heritage Database

Character Defining Elements

Key elements which contribute to the heritage value of this historic resource include:

• Those features that relate to its historic value including its imposing and elaborate appearance, its ‘Caswell’ inscription and date insignia and its location on the former lot of pioneer R.W. Caswell; and
• Its Collegiate Gothic (castle school) style of architecture, evident in: its brick façade, central tower, and pediments.