MALVERN, St Elizabeth — Iconic all-girls’ school Hampton last year celebrated the 160th anniversary of its establishment by the Munro and Dickenson Trust.

A release from the school noted that Robert Hugh Munro, in his will, left the residue of his estate to his nephew, Caleb Dickenson, and the Church Wardens of St Elizabeth and their successors for a school to be built and maintained for as many poor children as possible.

As a result the Potsdam property was bought and opened in 1857 as an all-boys’ school (Munro College). Hampton School started the following year at the Great House of the Potsdam Estate. In 1885, the school moved to its current location closer to the centre of Malvern.

“During the 160 years since establishment, and under the direction of 14 outstanding headmistresses and numerous supporting staff, Hampton School has been a major contributor in delivering quality education to a number of women in Jamaica who have gone on to make significant contributions to nation-building,” the release said.

As part of last year’s anniversary celebrations, Hampton hosted a number of events closing with a lunch and awards ceremony early last month at which 16 outstanding members of the community and staff were honoured.