Armenian College Calcutta AR Medal

ANRO-1221

INDIA, Colonial. British India. temp. Victoria–George VI. 1837-1952. AR Medal (31.5mm, 13.47 g, 12h). Armenian College Calcutta – Stephen Medal. Unawarded. ARMENIA COLLEGE/ CALCUTTA, crowned coat-of-arms; six flags behind / Wreath. Puddester 948.88.

The Armenian College Calcutta has a rich history dating back to 1763, when Margar Hovhannisian first established a school for Calcutta's Armenian students in his own home. Astvatsatur Muradghanian and Mnatsakan Vardanian established the school in 1821, and it began functioning from the premises of an earlier school at no 358, Old China Bazar Street. The school has remained in the same building since then, but in 1884, the Armenian College Calcutta purchased a house and land at 56B, Free School St, later known as Mirza Ghalib Street. Further renovations, changes and additions in and around the building included the Main School building, the Hall building, "Mary Apcar" building, the Office building, a new building along the street and the swimming pool.

The Main School building was a three-storied construction that included the senior dormitory, classrooms and the chemistry laboratory. The Hall building was a double-storied edifice built in 1890 by the efforts of Mesrob Jacob Seth and Mr Movses. In 1896, by agreement with the Managing Committee of the Armenian College, Arathoon Apcar, created the Mary Apcar Trust and bought the plot of land at the School gate to serve as a dormitory for the Apcar Scholars of the Mary Apcar Trust. The Trust deed stated that the Committee of the St. Mary's Church Isfahan, would have rights of "nomination" of Scholars, and if no Armenians were to be found from Iran, then the benefits would be applicable to needy students of India.

Overall, the Armenian College Calcutta has a long and fascinating history, playing a significant role in the education of Armenian children and young people in Calcutta since the 18th century. It has undergone numerous renovations and changes over the years, but has remained a fixture in the city, providing education and support to countless students. The school's long history and continued presence in Calcutta is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Armenian community in India.