1880 – Belfast Royal Academy, Cliftonville Rd., Belfast

A rather dour school building in a late Gothic style, finished in Scrabo stone. The Academy was founded in 1785 by Rev. Dr. James Crombie. Originally situated near St Anne’s Parish Church in what is now Academy Street, it moved to its current location on the Cliftonville Road in 1880 with the opening of this building.

“THE old Academy Buildings having fallen into dilapidation, and the managers having lately obtained additional powers from the Court of Chancery, are now erecting the new schools upon a more advantageous and commanding site on a leading outlet of the town. The plan comprises an outer porch under the central tower, Which rises upwards of 100 feet in height, and a large central hall from which the mathematical, writing, English, and classical schools, With masters’ rooms, are approached. Separate entrances are also provided for the boys in the circular turrets flanking the building. On the first floor is placed on one side the common hall, on the other several class-rooms, library, and board-room, &c. The upper floor contains a large dormitory, with masters’ rooms; a portion will be reserved for a museum and gallery of fine arts. The buildings have been planned with a view to future extension, but at present will accommodate upwards of 300 boys. Space has been reserved for the erection of principal’s and masters’ houses in connection, with the main building. The basement under the schools will be utilised as a covered recreation ground. All the exterior walls are built of Scrabo sandstone. The contractors for all the work are Messrs. Dixon & Co. The architects are Messrs. Young & Mackenzie, Belfast.” The Architect, March 8 1879.