St. John's College: Nurturing Minds from Humble Beginnings

 St. John's College, a prestigious institution in Palayankottai, formerly known as the "Manchester of Tamil Nadu," boasts a fascinating origin intertwined with another historic educational establishment in Tirunelveli, Schaffter School.

The roots of this renowned college can be traced back to a modest Anglo-vernacular school established by the Church Missionary Society in 1844. This unassuming institution, initially known as the English School in Palayankottai and later as the CMS School in Vannarpettai, operating out of a leased building. This small seedling would eventually grow into the recognized academic powerhouse known as St. John's College.

During the same period, Rev. Henry James Schaffter, born into a family with a strong legacy of educational service in the Tirunelveli district, pursued his own educational journey in Ireland. After obtaining his M.A., Rev. Schaffter returned to Tirunelveli in 1871. He became a faculty member at C.M.S. English School on Courtrallam Road, serving from 1876 to 1880. Notably, the current location of the Western Block branch of Schaffter School occupies the same site where Rev. Schaffter once taught.

In 1880, both the schools on Courtallam Road and in Vannarpettai were elevated to the status of C.M.S. College, with Rev. Schaffter taking on the role of Principal, marking a significant turning point in their history. The college began its journey on Courtallam Road.

Under Rev. Schaffter's dedicated leadership, the construction of the Main Block commenced, contributing to the college's burgeoning reputation. In 1897, the college moved from Courtrallam Road to its present location, the Schaffter School on Tirunelveli High Road.

Rev. H. Schaffter, M.A., served as the college's first Principal, guiding its destiny for an impressive 42 years, from 1878 to 1920. His unwavering commitment and tireless efforts were instrumental in keeping the college thriving.

In 1918, the college underwent yet another relocation, finding its permanent home in Palayamkottai, where it remains today as St. John's College. Meanwhile, the original school location continued to prosper, and in 1945, it was christened "Schaffter High School" by Ben Albert, solidifying its own place in the region's educational history.

St. John's College continues to stand tall in its Palayamkottai home, shaping the futures of countless students. Its legacy of resilience, adaptation, and commitment to nurturing young minds serves as an inspiration to all who pass through its gates. As we travel through the rich educational heritage of Tirunelveli, St. John's College remains a shining example of the transformative power of education.

Happy travelling.