Northfield School

Building Details
Name:	Northfield School
Address:	2249 Northfield Road
Architectural Style:	Public Works Design
Building Use:	Institutional
Year of Construction:	1920
Builder or Architect:	Federal Department of Public Works
Protected Heritage Property:	No

Heritage Value Statement

The Northfield School building is significant as one of few remaining early buildings in an area that, until amalgamation with the City of Nanaimo in 1975, was a distinct community. Originally developed as a coal mining town in the late 19th century, Northfield enjoyed a brief resurgence as such in the late 1930s. In addition to coal mining, small-scale farming, dynamite manufacturing and other businesses were developed. Amalgamation and development between separate coal towns eventually blurred the distinctions among them. Northfield School serves as a physical reminder of the area’s original development as a distinct community.



Built around 1920, the Northfield School is a very good example of Department of Public Works school designs of this era. Typical elements of this style include a central front entry, ground level first floor and banks of windows in the upstairs classrooms. Minor alterations over time have not altered the essential form or overall appearance of the building.



The Northfield School’s height, mass and location on a main thoroughfare make it an important neighbourhood landmark.

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