Aldrich Free Public Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Aldrich Free Public Library
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| Location | 299 Main St., Plainfield, Connecticut |
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| Area | 0.3 acres (0.12 ha) |
| Built | 1895 |
| Architect | Charles F. Wilcox |
| Architectural style | Queen Anne |
| NRHP reference No. | 94000768 |
| Added to NRHP | July 27, 1994 |
Aldrich Free Public Library is a public library in the Moosup area of Plainfield, Connecticut. You can find it at 299 Main Street. This special building was built in 1895. It was made possible by generous gifts from David L. Aldrich and Edwin Milner. The library building is so important that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994. This means it is a place worth protecting because of its history and design.
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About the Library Building
The Aldrich Free Public Library is located in the center of Moosup village. It sits at the corner of Main and High Streets. The building is made of wood and has 1-1/2 stories. It has a slate roof and its outside walls are mostly covered with wooden clapboards.
Unique Design Features
The library has a unique and interesting shape. It has a roof that crosses in different directions. There are gables on the sides and one over the main entrance. On the right side, there is a round, tower-like part. The ends of the gables are covered with wooden shingles. They also have special windows called Palladian windows. The round tower-like roof has a decorative top called a finial. Below it, there is a row of windows.
Inside the Library
When you go inside the library, you can still see many original parts. These include beautiful oak bookcases and furniture. The flooring and wood trim are also made of oak. These features help keep the historical feel of the building.
How the Library Started
The Aldrich Free Public Library was built in 1895. It was designed by an architect named Charles F. Wilcox. He was from Providence, Rhode Island. The building is a great example of Queen Anne Victorian architecture in the area.
Funding the Library
Part of the money for the library came from David Aldrich. He owned a local mill. His business partner, Edwin Milner, also helped. David Aldrich passed away in 1889. The rest of the money needed for the library was raised by people in the community. Edwin Milner gave the land where the library stands. He also paid for a large part of the building's construction. This meant that the money raised by the community could be used for books and furniture.
