St. Peter's School (formerly the European Boys' School) is a private all-boys boarding school located in the town of Panchgani in Satara, Maharashtra, India. Founded in 1902, it ranks among the top ten boarding schools in India. The school campus covers an area of approximately in the hilly countryside of Western India. It is essentially a boarding school, but a few day scholars are also admitted. School Crest The crest of the school has—the mythical bird—the phoenix rising out of flames and holding an olive branch. Its outstretched wings, in the crest of St. Peter's, is to signify the goals and spirit of the phoenix rising. It is a symbol of hope and rebirth and because of this the gods vowed—for as long as the phoenix lives, there is hope for mankind. The olive being carried in the phoenix's beak conveys that St. Peter's cherishes peace and harmony. Motto The motto of the school is Ut Prosim, which means "That I may serve" or "That I may be useful". Houses History Origins St. Peter's School, Panchgani (formerly known as the European Boys' School) was founded in 1902. The school was located at Kimmins School in its early stages. After receiving a generous donation from Miss Mary Ashlin (Lady Ashlin), the school was finally established in 1904 and moved to its own building (the current main school building) in 1904. One landmark in the history of the school was the appointment of Mr. Oswald D Bason as Principal in 1947. He filled this position until his retirement in 1974. Another important change came about in 1967 when the management of the school passed into the hands of the Society of St. Peter's School, Panchgani. Chronology 1861 The earliest European settlers in Panchgani, under Mr. J. Chesson, opened negotiations with the Government for the purchase of land for a church and school. 1876 Mr. Samuel Brierly, late Headmaster of Bishop's School, Poona, opened a Boarding and Day School at "Elstow", Panchgani. 1891 The Diocesan Board of Education, Bombay, became interested and appointed the Rev. Burgess, Chaplain/Headmaster. School opened at "Preston", but closed soon after due to a lawsuit over the property. 1895 The Rev. R. Evans, DD, was appointed by the Diocese to receive the School in "The Ark". 1898 Kimmins Girls' School founded by Miss A. Emilie Kimmins. Boys and girls studied together. 1902 Miss Mary Ashlin donated a legacy to