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400 years of the Royal School Cavan.

The seed was sown for the future education of generations 400 years ago.

Wednesday October 5th 2011 marked a very It’s fair to say that the most famous appointment was
significant date in the life of the Royal School Cavan. that of Thomas Sheridan as headmaster in 1735. His
It was on this date in 1611 that John Robinson was main claim to fame rests on his great friendship with
appointed as the first Headmaster of the school. Jonathon Swift. Rev. John Anderson arrived at the
Since this date the school has played a major role school in 1924. When he retired his son, the recently
in the education of generations of families from deceased Douglas, took over the position. The school
Cavan and beyond. When Robinson was appointed was in Anderson hands for over 60 years. The next
in 1611, the school wasn’t in its current location. Headmaster was Ivan Bolton, who worked tirelessly
At one stage the school even took up residence in to develop the school. The present day principal is
Cootehill. It wasn’t until 1819 that the present day Mr E. Lindsay who took over the role in 2009.
building found itself a permanent home for a cost A large amount of time and commitment went into
of £9000. Francis Johnson was the distinguished organising the celebrations. In order to celebrate
architect responsible for designing the Royal School this momentous occasion, the school organised a
in Cavan. The General Post Office in Dublin was one celebratory service in Cavan Parish Church at 11.00
of his most prestigious designs. Without doubt there am. Many dignitaries attended. The Archbishop
have been highs and lows over the past 400 years. of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland Alan

8 The Royal Times 2011-2012