Decades later, the entrance was widened to allow for wider vehicles to pass through and for safety reasons, creating an "in" gate more perpendicular to the road, requiring vehicles to slow down, and adding a separate pedestrian walkway that was not hidden by a pillar. An additional small section of wrought iron fence inset with the School crest and a new bronze entry plaque were the finishing touches. The new pillars were faced with stone quarried from the School's property, and one more light was added to replicate the originals. 

Dr. Banks’ goal was for the gates to create a dignified entrance to the campus. They certainly have achieved this aesthetic purpose, but not so much a practical one, for the gates do not meet in the middle, and therefore do not actually close. In recent years, the School has embraced the fact that they do not close and now sees them as a symbol of welcome. Perhaps local painter Kristine Paton had this in mind when she titled her painting of the School Gates "Always Open." 

The information presented in this write-up is based on current information available in the School's Archives and consultation with key people who have some relevant connection to this "object." If you have further information about this "object" that you would like to contribute, please contact the School’s Advancement Office at alumni@shawnigan.ca.