Mayfair School

Description of the Historic Place

Mayfair School is a large two storey brick building located in the neighbourhood of Mayfair. Constructed in 1919 at 510 34th Street West, the school is a local neighbourhood landmark.

Heritage Value

The heritage value of Mayfair School resides in its representation of Saskatoon’s early educational system. The spring of 1912 was a prosperous one for Saskatoon; as economic and population growth boomed, officials prepared to accommodate rapidly-expanding educational needs. But 1913 was a year of sudden change.  The "boom" had passed, and a pre-war economy proved restricting. Originally, Mayfair School was to be opened no later than September, 1914.  Plans for the school required changes in detail and cost of materials.  Though the foundations were complete in 1914, construction of the building was postponed by the onset of World War I.  All construction "not immediately necessary" was put on hold, and all efforts turned to war.

Only a few months after the return of peace, plans for Mayfair School resumed. A slowly recovering economy demanded extreme care in all financial decisions. In 1919 a call for tenders was announced and A. W. Cassidy became the successful contractor with R. Blackwood as the architect.  Mayfair School was occupied in September 1920, while further construction continued.  In January, 1921, nearly ten years after the original plans had begun; the school was in full operation. Mayfair School would be one of the last large and elaborate schools built in Saskatoon. Significant individuals connected to Mayfair School include George Cairns (relative of honoured Sgt. Hugh Cairns) and J. M. Cowie, vice principal at Mayfair School, who served in the Second World War and died in action in September, 1944.

Architecturally, Mayfair School’s flat-top construction, offset with parapet walls, differs from the characteristic turret-top style of earlier schools. In 1950 Mayfair School completed an addition to the school to accommodate growing numbers. There were also portable classrooms added in 1968. Mayfair School continues to be a busy functioning facility.  It is a symbol of the struggles encountered and the persevering nature of the Saskatoon Public School System.

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 historical value including its imposing and elaborate appearance, its location on Saskatoon’s west side, and the inscription ‘Mayfair’ above the main entrance.
• Its architecture, evident in: its brick façade, flat roof with offset parapet walls, double front entrances and cornice.