This material is an excerpt from "The White Canons of St. Norbert a History of the Premonstratensian Order in the British Isles and America" by The Rev. Cornelius James Kirkfleet O. Praem. Copyright, 1943 pages 247-248. Photos from 220 & 246

Abbot Pennings

Up to the year 1932the educational work of the Norbertines had been confined to the central part of the United States. For years, however, the hope of Abbot Pennings had been that a start might be made in the more densely populated eastern section of the country. At last the opportunity came. In that year the Order purchased the beautiful estate of Mr. John J. Raskob, a prominent Catholic, at Claymont, Delaware. It consisted of twenty-six acres, the mansion, a large garage, and the home of the caretaker. Plans were made immediately for its conversion to school purposes.

 

 

Bishop FitzMaurice (From 1936 Year book)

 

On August 8, the Most Reverend Edmond J. FitzMaurice, bishop of Wilmington, gave his formal approval to the new project.

 

 

 

 

 

Father McKeough was placed in charge. It was decided to call the new school Archmere Academy, the name "Archmere" having been the traditional name of the estate even before it was acquired by the Raskob family. The new institution opened its doors for the first students on September 12, 1932, when seventeen reported for classes. The original staff consisted of four members of the Order and two laymen. The course offered was strictly college preparatory. The formal dedication of the new foundation took place on October 12. In the presence of the right reverend abbot, most of the priests of the Wilmington diocese, the faculty, students, and friends, Bishop FitzMaurice dedicated it to our Blessed Mother under the tide of her Immaculate Conception. In his address, His Excellency said: "I extend to you in behalf of the Wilmington Diocese a hearty welcome, and may St. Norbert, the great apostle of the Blessed Sacrament, through whose inspiration you live, always be your guide."5

After this auspicious beginning the infant school developed steadily. Each year saw an increase in the number of students, In 1936 Father McKeough was transferred to Philadelphia, and Father Daniel F. Hurley succeeded him as headmaster. A much needed gymnasium was built in 1938. The school property was extended in 1940 by the purchase from Mr. Raskob of fourteen acres adjoining the campus. In 1942 the faculty consisted of six priests, all members of the Order, and two laymen. The student body numbered about ninety boys.

5. The Memorial, 109.

Information about the Archmere Coat of Arms can be found here.

More historical information can be found on the Archmere Academy Website by clicking here.