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How old is Knox Academy?

Published in School Age 2 mins read

As of 2024, Knox Academy is 645 years old, tracing its origins back to a grammar school founded in Haddington, East Lothian, in 1379. While the institution itself has a rich history spanning over six centuries, it was formally dedicated to John Knox and named the Knox Memorial Institute in 1879, making its specific association with the "Knox" name 145 years old.

The Enduring Legacy of Knox Academy

Knox Academy, as an educational institution, boasts a remarkable history that extends over six centuries. Its story begins long before it adopted its current name, highlighting a continuous commitment to education in Scotland.

Origins as a Grammar School (1379)

The institution's earliest traceable roots are found in a late medieval grammar school established in Haddington, East Lothian, in 1379. This foundational date signifies the birth of the educational establishment that would eventually evolve into the modern Knox Academy.

Dedication and Naming (1879)

Centuries later, in 1879, the school underwent a significant transformation and dedication. It was at this point that the institution was formally dedicated to the Scottish Reformation leader John Knox and renamed the Knox Memorial Institute. This significant renaming marked the construction of a new building, designed by John Starforth, further solidifying its presence and identity within the community.

Key Historical Milestones:

  • 1379: Founding of the original grammar school in Haddington, establishing the institution's long lineage.
  • 1879: The school was dedicated to John Knox and renamed the Knox Memorial Institute, coinciding with the construction of a new building.

Calculating the Age

To provide an exact answer, we consider two significant points in the school's history: its foundational origin and the adoption of the "Knox" name.

Historical Event Year Founded/Named Age (as of 2024)
Original Grammar School 1379 645 years
Dedicated as Knox Memorial Institute 1879 145 years

This table clearly illustrates the different historical markers and their corresponding ages as of the current year, reflecting the enduring legacy and the more recent naming of the academy.