The heritage society that oversees the restoration of the old West Saanich School in Brentwood Bay, is celebrating its supporters with a new donor recognition tile wall, built in front of the school at Pioneer Park.
The Brentwood Bay Old School Hall Society, with help from Bunyan Tile, covered the Slate Wall of Recognition with the names of local residents and businesses who contributed a minimum donation of $100 to the fundraising initiative.
“(The wall) is there for everyone to see now and forever,” said Wayne Watkins, vice president of the Old School Hall Society.
The money raised goes to the restoration of the old schoolhouse, which was built in 1908 and used as an elementary school until 1952. Restoration on the hall began in 1997, to restore the building to its original condition.
“The school as it is now, is how it looked decades ago,” said Watkins.
It was recently declared a designated heritage building by the District of Central Saanich, which owns the building. It is currently being used as a headquarters for local Girl Guides and Scout troops.
Watkins said that they have added enough space on the wall for 12 more donor tiles, and those spaces will be the last. Those wishing to contribute to the restoration project can contact Watkins at 250-652-1247 or Sue Myerscough, society president, at 250-652-5775.
