Build it Here

Inscription

BUILD IT HERE Between 1833 and 1849, the Newfoundland legislature met at a tavern, an orphanage and finally the Court House. A permanent home was first proposed in 1836 but it was not until 1846 that the current site was chosen, despite some objections. Problems arose quickly with the site. The builder complained that walls had to be reinforced and the ground drained to stabilize the building, causing delays and adding to the cost. The cornerstone was laid May 24, 1847 and the Colonial Building hosted its first legislative session on January 28, 1850. During restoration work, stone drains were uncovered on the grounds. "The building reflects the highest credit on the architect, Mr. James Purcell, who was also its designer. He has left nothing undone to carry out the intentions of the Commissioners, and has evidently supplied the best workmanship and materials. We feel that his character is now fully established for professional ability and judgement." — Morning Courier, January 30, 1850. "... I would beg leave to suggest, as a point worthy of consideration, whether a house erected in the midst of a marsh, might not be both unhealthy and unstable, even were the ground previously subject to an expensive process of drainage, which I have pointed out my reasons for believing to be objectionable." — Major Robe, Commanding Officer of the Royal Engineers, St. John's, in a letter to the British Colonial Secretary, May 18, 1846. Robe was part of a Committee investigating possible sites for a new House of Assembly.