1940s

1940: Our Lady of Lourdes primary school opened and blessed by Bishop Roper on 11 February. Four Ursuline sisters staffed the school, with Sister Hildegarde Nolan as Principal.

1941: For safety reasons trenches were dug in the gardens and air raid practices were conducted regularly. Certain "concessions"  were allowed in the uniform such as a reduction in the number of pleats in the skirt.

1942: By this time the roll call was 64 boarders and 68 day scholars.

1944: The Recreation Hall was built with accommodation for sisters above and blessed by Bishop Roper. (Present staffroom and staff lunchroom.) Grotto built in front garden. 

1945: Australian Ursulines affiliate with the Roman Union. Sister Alexis O’Connor osu was Superior. Founding of the Past Pupils' Organisation.

1946: The Past Pupils' Association was formed.

1947: Sister Berchmans O'Connor osu was Superior (1947-1953). In March, purchase of F.J. Paterson's home on the corner of Taylor and West Streets (sold for removal).  

1948: Erection of tennis courts on corner of West and Taylor Streets. First Ursuline Debutante Ball held by Past Pupils in Memorial Hall. 

1949: In July the home on the corner of West and Rome Streets was purchased and sold for removal and land used for basketball courts.

To find out more about St Ursula's College in the 1940s make an appointment with the Resource Centre staff to visit the College Archives.

Disclaimer - While every effort is made to ensure that information or data provided on this site is accurate and current, it is only intended as Archival reference.