Mount Saint Agnes Academy is celebrating its 120th Anniversary today.

The school was started after the officers of the Irish Garrison, who were stationed in Bermuda, appealed to the Archbishop of Halifax, Nova Scotia, in 1889 to open a school for the children of Irish soldiers.

In response, four Sisters of Charity of St. Vincent DePaul were sent to Bermuda and at the request of the Archbishop, the Sisters chose St. Agnes (Agnes being the name of the Archbishop's mother), as the patron of the school. This was also appropriate, as St. Agnes is a Patron Saint of youth.

The soldiers were recalled before the Sisters arrived, but the need for a girls' school would serve not only Bermudian children, but also the children of visitors who wintered here.

Thus on the March 3, 1890 Mount Saint Agnes Academy opened its doors at Woodlands, which is where Saltus Grammar School now stands.

Since its founding, MSA has become co-educational and has moved twice. In April 1892 the school was moved from Woodlands to Experiment Hill, which is on the corner of Cedar Avenue and Laffan Street, and now houses the mosque Masjid Muhammad #1.

The property, with its additions and improvements over the years, was more often referred to as 'the Convent' and was utilised for teaching until 1967 when the entire student body was moved to the school's present location.

Throughout its long history, Mount Saint Agnes Academy has remained dedicated to the principles of Catholic education, which form the basis of the school's philosophy.

To celebrate MSA's 120th Anniversary, the school will hold a Mass at St. Theresa's Cathedral at 10.30 a.m. today and after, cupcakes will be handed out to the students to commemorate the day.

In addition, on March 6, the auditorium the school will be hosting Music Fever: Dinner and Dance from 7 p.m. to midnight. Music will be provided by Ronnie and the Secrets, Mohawk Radio, the Tony Bari Trio and surprise guest artists. Proceeds go towards the Mount Saint Agnes Academy Music Program.

The event is open to the public and tickets are $60 and a cash bar is available. For tickets please contact the school office 292-4134 or e-mail: lbardgett@msa.bm.