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Enduring Legacy of Alfred Barrow: From School to Health Centre The story of Alfred Barrow in Barrow-in-Furness isn't just about a school, it's about a building that has continuously served the community for over a century. #BarrowHistory In 1888, it all began with the grand opening of the "Higher Grade School," its newly-laid brick facade gleaming in the sunlight and the smell of fresh mortar hanging in the air. Imagine the echoes of excited chatter within its walls as students, clad in stiff, scratchy uniforms, eagerly explored the polished wooden desks, the scent of fresh ink permeating the classrooms, and the squeak of new floorboards underfoot. This school offered advanced education for those who could stay on past the young age of 14. #EducationEvolution Later, the school was renamed after a local hero, Sir Alfred Barrow, a beloved mayor who left his mark on the town. #LocalLegends The 1970s ushered in a new era for the building, transforming it into Alfred Barrow Comprehensive School. Vibrant murals, their paint still tacky to the touch, replaced the muted tones of the original brickwork, and the air thrummed with the energy of a diverse student body. The shouts and laughter from the playground, the squeak of sneakers in the newly-built gym, and the clatter of trays in the bustling canteen all painted a picture of a thriving school community. The scent of hot dinners wafted through the halls, mingling with the smell of freshly cut grass and teenage sweat. #CompSchoolRevolution The journey wasn't without challenges. The school faced potential closure in the late 90s and early 2000s, but the community rallied behind it, securing its future for a time. #SaveOurSchool Sadly, in 2009, Alfred Barrow School closed its doors for good. The once-familiar sounds of school life fell silent, replaced by an eerie stillness that echoed in the empty hallways. The lingering smell of chalk dust and old books hung heavy in the air. Students transitioned to the newly built Furness Academy, marking the end of an educational chapter. #TheEndEra However, the story doesn't end there. The Alfred Barrow building wasn't destined to become a relic of the past. In 2019, it underwent a remarkable transformation. #NewChapterForOldBuilding The building was refurbished and received a modern extension, breathing new life into its structure. The scent of fresh paint and new materials filled the air, mingling with the lingering aroma of chalk dust and old books from its past. Sunlight streamed through the large windows of the new extension, illuminating the clean, modern lines of the waiting area. Today, it proudly houses the Alfred Barrow Health Centre, a vital primary care facility serving the community's healthcare needs. #CommunityHealth From educating young minds to providing healthcare services, the spirit of serving the community continues within the walls of the Alfred Barrow building. This enduring legacy is a testament to its lasting impact on Barrow-in-Furness. Do you have any stories of this school? While I went to Parkview school I never attended Alfred Barrow myself, perhaps you have some stories to share about the building's time as Alfred Barrow School? Email me at info@furness-whisper.uk or message us through the contact page