HARDIE HOUSE

In 1932 the executors of the late Bishop deCarteret contacted Kingston College and laid claim to all its assets. Despite protest from Rev. Gibson that Bishop deCarteret had no financial stake in the school, it was all in vain. The bank account was seized, and efforts were made to seize and sell the furniture and other equipment.

Bishop Gibson later said that the executors were persuaded to hold off on the seizure while other arrangements were made.

This was when Bishop Hardie made his grand entrance into Kingston College’s folklore. During the Synod of 1933, with debts mounting, Bishop Hardie told the synod that it would be irresponsible for them
to allow the new school to be closed. His persuasive argument on behalf of Kingston College was successful, as the Synod agreed to acquire the school and settle with the deCarteret family.

Later, Rev. Gibson declared Hardie “The second Founder of Kingston College”. A schoolhouse was named in his honor in 1937.

The Clovelly Park Campus as we know it, was acquired in three separate purchases. The second purchase was where the Chapel, form room block, tennis court, and the great house stood. The great house was renamed Hardie House.