The college’s history is linked to the catastrophic Great Flood of 1924. Here’s the fascinating story of how these two histories intersect.

In 1922, the University of Madras granted sanction for establishing St. Berchmans College. Initially, the college was housed in a minor seminary building on the premises of St. Mary’s Church in Parel. The same year, the foundation stone was laid for a new college building at its current site, then known as Vedikunnu. Dewan Raghavaiah, under the patronage of Maharajah Sreemoolam Thirunal, generously donated 1500 Kandys of teakwood (approximately 38 tonnes) for the construction of the building.

Bishop Mar Thomas Kurialaserry of Changanacherry entrusted Kannampuzha Kochu Varkey Joseph, a prominent timber merchant and Member of the SreeMulam Praja Sabha, with procuring timber from the government. Kochu Varkey successfully auctioned 1000 logs from the Vettikattumukku Timber government Depot, near Thalayolaparambu. These logs were tied together as a raft and prepared for transportation through the river to Changanacherry.

However, fate had other plans. The devastating 1099 (1924 CE) flood struck Kerala, causing widespread destruction and loss. The logs meant for the college construction were swept away by the floodwaters. Undeterred, Kochu Varkey spearheaded a recovery effort, hiring boatmen to search for the lost logs. After several days, the logs were finally located in the Muvattupuzha River, identified by their markings. Kochu Varkey successfully recovered every single log, earning the praise and gratitude of Bishop Kurialaserry.

In 1925, the three-story Kurialasserry Block was completed, marking the beginning of a new era for St. Berchmans College in the present campus. The building housed the office, principal’s residence, classrooms, staff rooms, and hostel, becoming the cornerstone of the institution’s growth and development.

As we commemorate the centennial anniversary of the great flood of 1099 (1924), we pay tribute with deep gratitude to the remarkable individuals who played a pivotal role in establishing this esteemed institution, their legacy continues to inspire us.

The testimony recorded below is by the late Mr. K J John, Kannampuzha, former teacher SBHS Changanacherry, son of Kannampuzha Kochu Varkey Joseph. It includes a brief overview of the devastating impact of the great flood of 1099 (1924).