Surrey removes historic Grandview Heights schoolhouse from heritage list after demolition, marking the end of a 103-year legacy in South Surrey.
A Piece of Surrey’s Past Officially Fades
In a unanimous vote, Surrey City Council has closed the final chapter on a cherished historical landmark. The Grandview Heights Elementary School Annex, once a proud one-room schoolhouse in South Surrey, has now been struck from the city’s Community Heritage Register—two years after its demolition.
Built to Last, But Not Forever
Standing tall since 1922 at 17561 20 Avenue, the annex was one of Surrey’s last remaining one-room schoolhouses still in use on its original site. Alongside its Crescent Park counterpart, it represented an era when local learning was as simple as a chalkboard and a handful of desks.
In 2009, the building earned a spot on the Canadian Register of Historic Places. Its traditional architecture, gabled roof, and roots in the 1920s community growth made it a treasured piece of local history. It wasn’t just about bricks and boards—it was a symbol of volunteer spirit and simpler times.
So, Why Was It Removed Now?
According to Surrey’s Heritage Advisory Commission, the recommendation to remove the schoolhouse was made because, well, it no longer exists. Demolished in 2023, the annex had already disappeared from the skyline, but not the city’s records. A report presented to council emphasized the importance of keeping the heritage registry up-to-date and accurate.
Council members agreed. On July 28, they voted to approve the removal, following the Commission’s suggestion based on a report dated May 29. The move ensures the heritage list reflects only what still stands.
What’s Next for the Site?
That’s still a bit of a mystery. Back in March, when the main Grandview Heights Elementary School building was also demolished (it had been closed since 2004), a spokesperson from Surrey Schools hinted at future plans. One idea floated was trading the land for a quieter parcel elsewhere in the city—away from bustling intersections—to build a new school.
For now, though, what’s left is a vacant lot—and a rich memory.
A Quiet Goodbye
As of August 1, the annex was still listed among 88 South Surrey heritage sites. But its official removal from the register brings closure to its 103-year story. While the building may be gone, its legacy lives on in archives, photos, and the memories of those who passed through its doors.
This isn’t just about a building—it’s about the stories, the history, and the community it once served.
