History
Blackrock College, known originally as the French College, Blackrock, was founded in 1860 by Père Jules Leman CSSp and his French companions.
They had a dual aim, namely to train personnel for missionary service in the Third World and to provide a first class Catholic education for Irish boys.
In response to changing circumstances, a highly successful Civil Service training department and university college were established and flourished for some forty years in the Castle.
When public examinations at secondary level were introduced, Blackrock was seen to excel. Though founded by a wholly clerical team, lay personnel were soon introduced – their numbers increasing over the years, as finances permitted.
The French tradition of a wide cultural education was developed down the years as the College grew in both numbers and in reputation. New buildings were added over time to meet the increased demand for places and to provide the best possible facilities for students. As a result of this constant striving for excellence which is essential to the Blackrock College ethos, year after year, Blackrock College alumni went on to achieve much and to contribute greatly, in very public and in less high-profile ways, to society both in Ireland and abroad.
We continue today to build on this long and proud history in a modern world which presents many challenges to our boys. The Blackrock College motto ‘Fides et Robur’ – Faith and Fortitude – is very much alive at Blackrock as we educate and prepare our students for the world which awaits them after their time here, equipping them with the ability and skills to emulate the achievements and contributions made by generations of ‘Rockmen before them.
To discover more about the history of Blackrock College, see the following (available from Blackrock College Ph: 01-2752100 or e-mail info@blackrockcollege.com):
Fearless & Bold – A Celebration of Blackrock College, Third Millennium Publishing 2009
The French College Blackrock 1860 – 1896, Fr. Seán Farragher CSSp 2011
Blackrock College 1860 – 1995, Fr. Séan Farragher CSSp, Annraoi Wyer Paraclete Press 1995
