Violet Cherrington (1886-1956)
13. Cross Rennie's Mill Road to #55, the residence of Violet Cherrington, early 20th century educator.
Violet Cherrington was born in England and taught there before coming to Canada to teach in British Columbia, and at Havergal College in Ontario. She arrived in Newfoundland in 1922 to become Headmistress of Bishop Spencer School for Girls in St. John's.
Bishop Spencer was a private school for Church of England girls, but children of all faiths, as well as boys, were admitted. It was one of the few schools that provided scholarships for young women whose families could not afford school fees, so the pupils came from a variety of class backgrounds. Spencer Lodge was used as the residence for outport girls attending Bishop Spencer School. As Principal, Violet Cherrington resided here during the 1920s and 1930s.
Initially, the school curriculum was largely designed by Violet Cherrington, and emphasized 'feminine' virtues and skills, good manners, and good speech. Being good wives and mothers was an important goal for female students. However, during the early 20th century, some of the teachers were active in the women's suffrage movement and Cherrington was one of them.
Studies included domestic science, elocution, art, music, drama, native studies and secretarial courses. In the 1930s women's economic role in society received greater attention with employment in nursing, teaching or secretarial work being emphasized.
By the 1950s, over 500 young women attended Bishop Spencer College with some living at the lodge. Independence and solid academic qualifications were a focus.
Violet Cherrington was a member of the Council for Higher Education in St. John's, and an avid supporter of the Girl Guides. She was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1938. She retired from Bishop Spencer in 1952, saying she was now, after so many years, "teaching the grandchildren."
