Converse Memorial Library facts for kids
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Converse Memorial Library
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Converse Memorial Building
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | 36 Salem Street, Malden, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1885 |
| Architect | H. H. Richardson; Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge; Newhall & Blevins |
| Architectural style | Richardson Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 85002014 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | September 05, 1985 |
| Designated NHL | December 23, 1987 |
The Converse Memorial Library is a very special and historic building. It is also known as the Converse Memorial Building. A famous American architect named H. H. Richardson designed it.
From 1885 to 1996, this building was home to the Malden Public Library. Today, the library is in a new, modern building right next door. You can find the old library at 36 Salem Street in Malden, Massachusetts.
A Gift to the Community
The building was a gift from Elisha S. and Mary D. Converse. They built it to remember their son, Frank Eugene Converse. He passed away in a very sad event.
Construction of the library happened between 1883 and 1885. It has an L-shape when you look at it from above. The outside is made of brown sandstone from Longmeadow. A tall tower rises from the inner corner of the 'L' shape. There is also a grand entrance porch with many arches.
Inside the Library
The main library room is quite large, measuring 50 by 36 feet. Inside, you'll see beautiful white oak wood. It is carved with many fancy designs. The ceiling is very high and vaulted, like an arch.
Even the furniture in the library was special. H. H. Richardson designed it himself. A company in Boston called A. H. Davenport and Company made the furniture.
Growing Over Time
Over the years, the building needed more space. In 1896, two new parts were added. These additions were designed by Richardson's old firm, now called Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge.
One new section extended the building towards the back, along Park Street. It looked very similar to the original design. The other addition was a flat-roofed area for storing books. In 1916, an octagonal (eight-sided) gallery space was added to the back. This part was designed by Newhall & Blevins.
A Landmark Building
The Converse Memorial Building was the last library that H. H. Richardson designed. Many people think it is one of his best works ever. Because of its importance, it was named a National Historic Landmark in 1987. This means it is a very important place in American history.
