The  Power of the Dream (1921-1922)

Brother Vernier Auguste Clerc        

           (Bro.Augustus)

“Born in 1884 in France, he was  a formative influence on St Michael’s where his passion for architectural design found expression in the school’s distinctive facade. He also designed  St.John’s Institution,Kuala Lumpur, and the exquisite chapel at St.Francis’ Institution, Malacca.”

The Story of Brother Augustus

·        A  young French architect had joined the Lasalle Brothers in France. He was posted to Malaya . where he served as Director of St Francis Institution,Melaka .

·        He succeeded Bro Paul Gallagher as Director of St.Michael’s in  January 1921.

·      He was given the task of designing a new building for the school. The Lasalle Brothers and the people of Ipoh wanted nothing less than an architectural jewel, the best that Brother Augustus could visualise  in the grandest style. 

·      Brother Augustus could  have said to himself: “I see now why God has designed me as a teacher-cum-architect. I am destined to build this great edifice for St.Michael’s. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam ( For the Greater Glory of God)”

·      The majestic building that forms the core of the school complex today was truly the fruit of Brother Augustus’ dream . And yet it is more. It stands forever as a symbol of the unity of purpose and diversity of talent that has been the driving force behind the great heights that Michaelians were destined to achieve in every field of human endeavour. 

·        Brother Augustus exemplifies one of the hallmarks of  visionary principals. While dreaming of  his magnificent,ornate school building, his feet were firmly on the ground. He was never under any illusions about what makes a great school.It is more than just a magnificent building.

·        A great school is about excellence in learning and maturing  morally and socially in a community.

·        He is remembered not only for his architectural brilliance but equally for his all-prevailing discipline and his leadership as a devoted teacher. He was a dedicated and accomplished  teacher  who taught English Literature to the Senior Cambridge class. 

·        He is also remembered as an excellent teacher of Mathematics, English and French.

·        His legacy in laying the foundations of discipline and excellence in teaching is appreciated no less than his inestimable contribution to the architectural majesty of our alma mater.

He was also a strong advocate of university training for the La Salle Brothers .

From The School Diary

“In Nov. 1921, work in construction with the present beautiful building, for which plans and specifications had been prepared by Mr Teoh Chew Cheang, 72 Clare St, Ipoh, was begun. Unfortunately Mr T.C. Cheang, who was also the contractor, died on the 2^nd February. 1922, after a short illness. His death occasioned a stoppage in the work. On the advice of Mr H.T. Jones, a friendly lawyer, Bro. Director- Augustus applied to Messer Stark and McNeill. New plans were drawn and many improvements made, difficulties were solved and the plans were passed by the Chairman of the Sanitary Board on the 4^th May 1922. Mr Chin Ah Koon was chosen as Contractor and work began again on the 9^th May .”