Mangadu Ellappa Chettiar School, established in 1905, was born out of the generous endowment of Ellappa Chettiar. Hailing from Mangadu a small hamlet in Tamilnadu, Ellappa Chettiar bequeathed much of his hard earned wealth to charity. The land and building of the school is one amongst them.

More than a century old, the school has a glorious past and a rich legacy. It is located in George Town, Mannady, Chennai.

Mr. M.S.Srinivasa Iyer was the first correspondent of the school. He was instrumental in getting the government aid for the school, which continues to this day. His daughter in law Mrs. Papammal succeeded him. She steered the school for nearly 30 years.She relinquished responsibilities in February, 2015, due to age and failing health.

The school is owned by Mangadu Ellappa Chettiar Trust. Mr. M.C. Shanker, Mr. M.C. Janardhan, Mr. M.C. Jagdish, all grand sons of Mangadu Ellappa Chettiar are its trustees. 

The trustees have given the administrative responsibilities to the Thowheed Educational Trust.

The school building, a witness to the history, needs renovation. But the trustees of Mangadu Ellappa Chettiar Trust have decided to construct a new building.   

The school is temporarily being shifted to Saiva Muttaiah Street, in the same locality.