Lady Beaverbrook's Residence

The idea of building a residence did not start in 1928. In the Senate Minutes of 26 Feb. 1895, the students petitioned to have a residence established. A Senate committee was formed, Senate agreeing in principal with the idea (SM 496). Tenders were submitted on 23 May 1900, and Senate agree "that the tender of Robert Maxwell, St. John [sic] for a brick and stone building be accepted the figures being $15,470 being the lowest tender" (SM 665). Although Senate continued to discuss building a residence, and to be petitioned by the students, the matter remained shelved, most likely due to lack of financial means, until Lord Beaverbrook made his offer. Late in 1927, Lord and Lady Beaverbrook offer $100,000 to build the residence (see "Endowments/Gifts" for further information). 13 Jan 1928: Lord Beaverbrook offers to build a residence on University grounds. However, the committee (appointed by Lord B.) feels that a Library would be a "more acceptable memorial to [the late] Lady Beaverbrook" (SM5 8). The decision is deferred until Mr. Justice Crocket communicates with Lord B. (SM5 7-8). 5 Mar 1928: Senate accepts Lord B's offer and expresses "its warm appreciation, not only of this magnificent gift, the largest private gift which has come to the University in its history: but of the munificent contributions which His Lordship and his much lamented gifted wife have previously amde to the cause of higher education in New Brunswick" (SM5 10). Senate agrees to locate the building "on the right side of the road approaching the Science Building" (SM5 11). 14 May 1930: Miss M.M. Green appointed Matron of the Lady Beaverbrook's Residence at a salary of $100/month plus board (SM5 39). 14 Nov. 1930: President's Report states that a "special memorial to Lady Beaverbrook was provided by the turret clock with chimes installed in the tower of the building" (PR 1929-1930: 152). 25 Nov 1930: Committee appointed to prepare for formal opening ceremonies (SM5 45). 14 Nov 1931: The residence was "fully taken up and there was a considerable waiting list of names of those desiring quarters for the present year." Lord B. was unable to come for a formal opening, but visited the building before completion and " expressed himself as exceeding well pleased with the building and its location" (PR 1930-1931: 157). 13 Oct 1936: Letter read into Senate Minutes from Lord Beaverbrook to President C.C. Jones, stating that he was glad the residence was being used and that with "encouragement, [he] would be willing to enlarge it" (SM5, 132).