The front section of the Strathcona Block was built, as the date-stone atop testifies, in 1905. But the rear portion is one of Brandon's oldest buildings: the first school. Known as the Central School and later as the Collegiate Department, the earliest classes were held in February 1882. The first Brandon City Council met here on July 3rd of the same year. A larger and more stylish addition fronting 10th Street was subsequently added, but this was removed when the Strathcona Block was built. The original school can still be seen from the back lane.