The cornerstone of Assumption College was laid in 1855. It first opened to students in 1857 but only really became established in 1870 when the Basilians took over; it is the oldest institution of higher learning west of Toronto; the east-west oriented, south wing of the building in the photograph dates to 1875/1876; it was demolished in 1984; the current north-south oriented building was completed in 1884; the original old building, which served as a barracks in the Fenian raids was attached to the south wing; it was pulled down in 1965; Assumption College Chapel (not yet built in this photograph) was completed in 1908. S. M. Goddard was the architect of the 1876 and 1884 wings. See: Pure Zeal by George McMahon, page 9