Images of PACI
PACI currentlyPACI in 1912PACI in 1952front entranceHeritage plaqueProvincial crest in stonework over front doorFlower stoneworkBuilding up closeTower close upView from belowLakehead University name on building

PACI building

Quick Facts about the building

Year Built: 1909                                          
Architect:  Henry Simpson
Building Contractor:  George Otto
Construction Material:  Simpson Island Sandstone
Designated as a Historic Building:  May 25, 1983
Years Operated as a Public School:  September 6, 1910 to June 2007

  • Alterations were made to the main building to add classrooms in both 1923 and in 1954.

  • Taking advantage of its high location, a harbour lookout shelter was built adjacent to the school.

  • To commemorate former students killed during both World Wars, memorial plaques and photographs were installed in the entrance area of the main floor hall-way. The plaques and photos are a part of the historical designation of the building and will remain in place.

  • In 1972, a gymnasium was built into the hill, though it was "ill-received" due to its lack of architectural connection to the main building.

  • The high school was closed in June 2007 due to declining enrollments and the building was purchased by Lakehead University in 2008.

  • The building underwent extensive internal renovations to transform it from a high school to a law school. The architect was FORM Architecture and the contractor was DRD Construction Service.

  • The renovations included complete renovation to the library, formation of seminar rooms for up to 10 students, the boardroom and Dean's office and faculty facilities, as well as the Student Chambers and administration offices.