Richmond College 150th anniversary: Celebrating a legacy of discipline and refinement
View(s):Historians trace the origins of Richmond College, Galle, to 1814, when Wesleyan missionaries established one of the earliest centres of learning in the south of the island. Yet, May 1, 1876 is widely accepted as the formal founding of Galle High School by Rev George Baugh — later renamed Richmond College in 1882 under Rev Samuel Langdon.
Amidst the spirited debate among devoted Richmondites, perhaps the most fitting conclusion is this: Richmond is both 150 years old — and over 200 years deep. It is an institution defined not merely by dates, but by continuity of purpose.
As Richmond marks this historic milestone, it does more than celebrate longevity. It stands at a reflective crossroads — between a proud past that shaped generations of distinguished citizens, and a future that urgently calls for the revival of values that once defined not only a school, but a way of life.
For a century and a half, Richmond has not merely educated; it has cultivated. Its legacy lies not only in academic excellence or sporting triumphs, but in the character of the men it has sent into the world. Statesmen, scholars, professionals, and leaders — many of whom have left an indelible mark on Sri Lanka — have emerged from its classrooms. Yet beyond these visible achievements lies a deeper accomplishment: the shaping of individuals grounded in discipline, integrity, humility, and moral courage.
A heritage of leadership and vision
Richmond’s contribution to Sri Lanka’s national life is both profound and enduring. From its halls emerged C W W Kannangara, the Father of Free Education, whose reforms transformed learning into a right rather than a privilege. The college’s political legacy includes a President, A Prime Minister and a Speaker, namely Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Former Prime Minister late Wijayananda Dahanayake, and Former Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa, who have influenced the country’s political trajectory.
This distinguished lineage extends across the judiciary, public service, and academia: Chief Justice G P S de Silva; Member of State Council & parliament P de S Kularatne who is the founder of leading national schools Nalanda Vidyalaya, Ananda Balika Vidyalaya & Pannipitiya Dharmapala Vidyalaya; President’s Secretary Austin Fernando; and intellectual figures such as Shakespearean and the first professor of English of the University of Ceylon Professor E F C Ludowyk, prominent Lankan playwright, novelist, poet Dr Ediriweera Sarachchandra and eminent educationist B Suriyaarachchi who further strengthened this legacy by leading both Richmond College Galle and Royal College, Colombo.
This “Richmond DNA” — a blend of integrity, quiet confidence, and principled assertiveness — continues to manifest across generations, with countless alumni contributing to national development in diverse fields.
In the sporting arena, Richmond’s influence remains striking. Contemporary Sri Lanka cricket features national captains such as Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Wanindu Hasaranga, alongside the versatile Kamindu Mendis — all products of Richmond’s cricketing tradition. Their success is forged not merely through skill, but through a culture shaped by decades of disciplined competition, most notably the historic “Lover’s Quarrel” with Mahinda College.
Their success is not merely a product of technical coaching; it is the “never say die” spirit captured in the college song:
“Richmond, forever boys, let the air resound,
Richmond to the fore boys, let the cry go round
Dear to us is Richmond’s honour, we will never say die;
All for Richmond, none for self, shall be ever our cry.
A nation at a moral crossroads
Today, Sri Lanka finds itself at a critical juncture. Economic strain, institutional fragility, and social unrest have exposed not only systemic weaknesses, but a deeper erosion of values. Declining integrity, short-term thinking, and weakened accountability have contributed to what many perceive as a moral drift.
In such a climate, the question before us is not merely how to rebuild systems — but how to rebuild people. For nations are ultimately shaped not by policies alone, but by the character of their citizens.
The Call for Refined and Disciplined citizens
What made Richmond unique — and what must be rediscovered — is its emphasis on “discipline and refinement.” In today’s context, the idea of a “refined and assertive Richmondite” (Ada Kuda Nathi, Hora Boru Nathi Richmond Poddo/ “ A”) takes on renewed urgency.
Modern education has, understandably, prioritised knowledge and technical competence. Yet competence without conscience is insufficient. A brilliant mind, unanchored by ethics, risks becoming a liability rather than an asset. Sri Lanka today needs individuals who combine skill with integrity, ambition with responsibility, and success with purpose — professionals who are principled, public servants who understand duty, entrepreneurs who create value beyond profit, and citizens who uphold truth over convenience. This is not idealism; it is necessity. And this is precisely the kind of individual Richmond, at its best, has historically nurtured.
From tradition to transformation
Sustaining this legacy in a rapidly evolving world is no easy task. Government schools, including Richmond, face constraints — limited resources, rising competition, and the pressures of a digital age shaped by instant gratification. In such a context, character formation cannot be incidental; it must be intentional.
As Richmond marks its 150th year, this is an opportune moment to move from reflection to renewal. A deliberate, multi-dimensional effort is needed: strengthening character education, empowering teachers as mentors, engaging alumni with purpose, and ensuring that excellence in academics and sport remains grounded in ethics.
A model for the nation
The significance of Richmond’s journey extends far beyond a single institution. If Richmond can once again demonstrate a model of holistic education — producing individuals who are not only capable, but principled — it can inspire a broader national transformation.
Schools alone cannot carry this responsibility. Parents, communities, and society must reinforce these values. Children must see integrity lived, not merely taught; honesty rewarded, not compromised; responsibility practiced, not avoided.
Let this milestone be a reminder: the true measure of an institution lies not in its buildings or accolades, but in the character of its people. The aspiration is simple yet profound — that one day, across Sri Lanka, parents and teachers will urge their children not merely to succeed, but to be “like a Richmondite.” Not in name, but in nature.
For a generation that is refined, principled, and courageous holds the power to transform not only institutions, but the very fabric of a nation. As Richmond steps into its next century and beyond, may it once again lead that transformation. All for Richmond, None for Self, Let the air resound.
- Damith Hettihewa
(The author is an old Richmondite and an engineer by profession and can be contacted through damith.hettihewa@gmail.com)
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